Any new parent who has spent hours agonizing over the rhythms of their newborn’s behaviors and needs will appreciate Pampers’ baby monitoring system to help track a baby’s schedule.
Lumi by Pampers uses a tracker attached to a baby’s diaper to collect data on sleep and wet diapers, in order to give parents a better understanding of their little one’s routine. The system uses a 1080p wide-angle HD video monitor and activity sensors which can be attached to specially-designed diapers. The sensors track wet diapers and sleep patterns, then store the data in the Lumi app.
Parents can also add feeding schedules and important milestones in the app as well, to develop a more detailed picture of what their baby’s routine looks like. The sensor will only work with Lumi by Pampers diapers, which are available in sizes newborn through four and cost nearly the same as regular diapers.
You can purchase the smart sensor that attaches to Lumi diapers for $30, as well as the complete Smart Baby Monitor that has night vision and humidity tracking for $166. If you’d like extra help in the sleep department, you can head to the Lumi website and sign up for a sleep plan that offers guidance on getting your little into sweet dreams.
If you’re in the market for a family car, you’re probably thinking more along the lines of “Is it safe?” or “Can it fit a stroller?” rather than “Is it fast?” or “Does it look good?” Luckily, car manufacturers want to make sure you have it all: Safety, practicality, looks… and maybe a not-your-mom’s-minivan sort of speed. So whether you need a seven-seater or a sedan, here’s a list of the best family cars of 2022 (according to experts).
Best Minivans for Families
2022 Honda Odyssey
Honda
There's a reason the Honda Odyssey won Kelley Blue Books "Minivan Best Buy" award three years in a row: It's got everything a parent needs to haul around a small tribe of children—and was one of only two minivans in 2021 to earn a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (the other was the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica). Even though the much-loved interior vacuum cleaner is noticeably absent in this year's model (the company supplying the vacuum went out of business due to Coronavirus troubles!), there are still a lot of great reasons to check it out.
Best Family Friendly Features:
Seats up to eight, with LATCH accommodations for up to five car seats (it's also the only minivan to earn an IIHS top rating for ease of use of its LATCH child seat attachment hardware)
The interior camera helps parents keep an eye on the back seats, even in the dark
Folding 10-inch screen for back seat passengers can stream movies and games
"Cabin Watch" camera lets you keep an eye on your back seat passengers, even in the dark, while "Cabin Talk" lets you talk to rear passengers through the speakers and the DVD headphones
Split-folding third row offers room for strollers (even unfolded ones) and offers hefty storage space when seats aren't folded into the floor
Remote start abilities let you warm up or cool down the car before you step inside
An 8-inch display touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto
The optional cellular plan that'll allow you to stream videos directly to your car
In-car WiFi
Wireless charging pad in the front seat as well as front and rear USB ports
Sunshades for second and third-row passengers
Tri-zone climate control
A hands-free power tailgate lets you open the trunk by kicking your foot under the rear bumper
Safety Features:
Eight standard airbags, including knee airbags for the front seats and side-impact curtain protection for all three rows
All trims include Honda Sensing (which features Collision Mitigation Braking System with Pedestrian Detection; Forward Collision Warning; Road Departure Mitigation, incorporating Lane Departure Warning; Lane Keeping Assist System; traffic sign recognition; and Active cruise control with a forward-collision warning system)
Automatic emergency braking applies the brakes when the car detects that a frontal collision is unavoidable
Lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist and Road Departure Mitigation all help keep you from veering off the road
Blind spot information system will alert you if vehicles are detected in your blind spots when you're changing lanes
The multi-angle rearview camera gives you extra eyes when you're backing up
Snow Mode recalibrates the car's traction system to give you more control in winter weather
Rear seat occupant reminder notifies you to check the back seats before you get out
Want minivan conveniences without minivan looks? This redesigned family mobile—which replaces Kia's Sedona minivan—has a distinctly SUV-inspired design and high-end features, both of which helped it beat out its eight-passenger rivals in Cars.com's annual minivan list. It's got a roomy interior (Kelley Blue Book says it has "room for six-footers in every row"), fun family features (like a rear seat camera for watching the kids), and gobs of safety features. Here's what else the Carnival's got going for it:
Best Family Friendly Features:
(Optional) In-cabin camera system with a zoom function and night vision allows front-row occupants to keep an eye on back seat passengers
8-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Seating for up to eight
Passenger talk intercom system and rear passenger-view camera
"Class-leading" interior and cargo space (according to Kelley Blue Book)
Dual screen rear entertainment system (in SX models)
"VIP-lounge" second-row seats (in SX model) make driving around the in-laws (or nursing in the back seat) easy
80-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration
Tri-zone automatic climate control for keeping everyone in the car the right amount of comfortable
The third row can fold flat into the floor
hands-free sliding doors
Slide-flex seating (comes with the 8-seater arrangement) lets parents use multiple seating configurations, including a sliding center 2nd-row seat that can also turn into a table
Safety Features:
Reverse emergency braking
360-degree camera system
12.3-inch LCD driver information cluster w/blind-spot view monitor (in Prestige model)
290 horsepower V6 engine gives a peppy pick-up
Forward-collision avoidance
Blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
Lane-keeping assistance
Automatic high beams
Driver attention monitoring
Rear parking sensors
Rear occupant alert
Safe exit assist keeps a virtual eye out for vehicles that may be a hazard to anyone exiting the car
Got four kids, two dogs, three bikes, a stroller and tons of gear to tow? The Expedition may be a perfect choice (if you can afford the hefty price tag). With its stylish looks, cavernous cabin, and impressive safety features, it's easy to see why Edmunds rated it as its favorite large SUV for 2022.
Best Family Friendly Features:
Huge interior cargo space, especially in the MAX version (which is a foot longer than the standard model)
Seating for up to eight
Optional second-row captain seats with a walk-through console so your kids can easily get to the third row
Power-fold second and third row for when you've got to carry gear, luggage, or the dog in the back
A hands-free liftgate for easy access into the trunk
Second-row USB ports, plus optional wireless device charging in the front seat
15.5-inch high-def touch display is the biggest in its class
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Rear seat entertainment systems with Amazon Fire TV lets kids stream videos, play games, listen to music, get information, and watch downloaded shows and movies
The remote start system lets the car warm up before you get in
Optional massaging front seats available in Platinum trim
4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot
Power-folding running boards act as a step-stool for kids (and rickety grandparents) to get into the seats
It's built more like the Ford F-150 truck than the Ford Escape, which makes it great at towing heavy loads (if you're going on, say, an all-summer road trip)
Safety Features:
Forward collision warning
Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection (warns if a front impact is imminent and will brake for you if you don't respond in time)
Reverse Brake Assist: Backing senses oncoming pedestrians and vehicles while you are backing up; alerts the driver and brakes if the vehicle is at risk of a collision
The lane-keeping system makes small steering corrections to keep the vehicle centered in its lane
Road Edge Detection engages the steering system to help you maintain your position in the lane on roads with a visible line or a clear edge
Available Intersection Assist uses the front camera and radar sensors to detect oncoming traffic while you are attempting to turn left. If there’s a risk of a potential collision with an oncoming vehicle, the car will alert you and apply the brakes
A blind spot monitor with cross-traffic alert (warns you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while reversing)
Available all-wheel drive
Cross-traffic alert
360-degree camera
Adaptive cruise control with speed sign recognition and lane-centering technology is available on upper trims
Ford BlueCruisehands-free highway Driver-Assist Technology allows drivers to operate their vehicle hands-free on the highway while being monitored by a driver-facing camera to ensure they keep their eyes on the road (available in Platinum trim)
Scoring the top spot in Consumer Reports ranking of the best midsize three-row SUVs—and named one of the 10 Best Cars & Trucks for 2022 by Car & Driver magazine—the eight-passenger Kia Telluride has the tech finesse to satisfy the kids and the safety and reliability parents want. And, its luxurious cabin and trims also earn rave reviews, with Car & Driver saying, "With a rugged exterior and a rich-looking interior, the Telluride wouldn't appear out of place in a Land Rover showroom."
Best Family Friendly Features:
Seating for up to eight (with room in the third row to comfortably fit an adult)
Available heated and ventilated front and second-row seats
In-car intercom to talk to rear passengers
Available reclining dual captain's chairs that slide forward with the push of a button for easy access to the third row
Dual rear sunroofs
"Quiet mode" will shut off all rear speakers (so as not to wake little nappers) and play audio up front at a low level
USB ports for all passengers plus available wireless charging
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to easily connect your music and apps
Remote climate feature that lets you use your phone to warm up or cool down your car before you get inside
Find My Car system helps you locate your car in a crowded parking lot
One-touch sliding and folding second and third-row seats
10.25-inch infotainment display with a split-screen function
Safety Features:
Blind spot view monitor shows a live feed of your right rear blind spots and stops you if you try to change lanes while an object is detected in the blind spot
The rear occupant alert system can tell if you left your car with someone in the back seat—and alerts you accordingly
Standard Safe Exit Assist helps you get off the freeway without worry
The Head Up display gives you important driving information (speed and road turns) on the front dash so you don't have to look down at your console while driving
Smart cruise control keeps your car a safe distance from the car in front of you and stops your car if needed
Emergency braking and warning system will warn you if you're approaching a stopped object and will apply brakes if needed
Lane-keeping technology keeps you from straying out of your lane
Eight inches of ground clearance keeps the bottom of your car safe from bumps and off-road obstacles
This three-row family-hauler won second place in the Consumer Reports list of mid-size, three-row SUVs (behind the Telluride). Consumer Reports calls it "a smart choice for families looking for a do-it-all vehicle." It's also an economical choice, with Car & Driver magazine saying that if you opt for one of the higher trims, you'll "enjoy a more luxurious environment that just about matches the offerings of a Lexus-branded SUV." Here are a few other things to consider:
Best Family Friendly Features:
Seating for up to eight depending on the model
Available hybrid option teaches kids about environmental stewardship (and saves you money on gas!)
The infotainment system offers Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and Alexa integration
The seat belt reminder system will alert you and show you exactly which passenger (via a map on the dashboard) has unbuckled during a drive
The 8-inch infotainment system comes standard, but a 12.3-inch touchscreen display is available on higher trims
Wireless charging ports in the front row
Available heated front and second-row seats
Panoramic moonroof
Wifi connectivity with 5 USB ports throughout the car
Safety Features:
V6 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission helps the car easily climb hills and accelerate on the highway (Consumer Reports called its drive "smooth and punchy.")
Standard forward-collision warning with emergency braking
Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
Lane departure warning
Lane-keeping assistance
Front and rear parking assist
Adaptive cruise control
Blind spot warning (standard on the Hybrid)
Standard LED headlights with standard auto high beams
Available all-wheel drive
Multi-Terrain Select (available on all-wheel-drive models) lets you choose between four modes (Mud & Sand, Rock & Dirt, Snow and Normal) for enhanced traction
Toyota’s Safety and Remote Connect service (free for one year) offers remote engine starting, location tracking, and locking/unlocking
Free 3-year subscription to Toyota’s Safety Connect, which enables the emergency crash notification and calls for help when the airbags are deployed
Digital rearview mirror (for when the stroller and other things are blocking your rearview)
Road Sign Assist is designed to detect speed limit signs, stop signs, Do Not Enter signs and yield signs, and display them on the Multi-Information Display
Named Kelley Blue Book's Best Compact SUVs for 2021 and historically one of the top-selling cars in the US, the new Rav4 (which goes on sale mid-December) is already receiving praise. This year's most notable update is the introduction of the new hybrid model plus a few tech and interior updates to keep the car both sporty and safe.
Best Family Friendly Features:
Roomy seating for five (Kelley Bluebook says "it's hard to believe the 2022 RAV4 is a compact crossover when sitting in the cabin")
Panoramic glass roof
Heated front and rear seats (with ventilated front seats), heated steering wheel
Ambient lighting
Hands-free power liftgate
5 USB charging ports and wireless phone charging in the front seat
8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Amazon Alexa integration
In-Car WiFi
Hybrid model easier on the environment (and your commute costs)
Safety Features:
Retuned suspension and eight inches of ground clearance for off-road capability
Multi-Terrain Select (available on all-wheel-drive models) lets you choose between four modes (Mud & Sand, Rock & Dirt, Snow and Normal) for enhanced traction
Digital rearview mirror for when your actual rear view is blocked
Connected Services lets you remotely unlock/lock the car, get directions from a live agent, call for help in case of an accident, or turn your Rav4 into a hotspot
Toyota Remote Connect lets you remotely start your vehicle (to warm it up in the winter, for instance), lock or unlock the doors, or locate your vehicle
Blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert
Front and rear parking assist
Available all-wheel drive
Forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection
Lane departure alert with steering assistance
Road sign recognition
Radar-based adaptive cruise control that works at a full range of speeds
rain-sensing wipers and wiper de-icer.
Starting price: The 2021 was $26,350 ($28,900 for hybrid); it is estimated the 2022 model when it is released, will be slightly above this.
Consumer Reports rated the 2022 Forester the top compact SUV of the year, describing it as "a smart, well-executed small SUV that boasts a roomy interior, great fuel economy, and plenty of standard safety equipment." Here's why it's a great pick for families:
Best Family Friendly Features:
Roomy seating for five
Compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
Power liftgate
Heated front (and rear, in higher trims) seats; ventilated front seats
Optional moonroof
11.6-inch vertical touch screen in the center console
Two USB ports in front; two optional in the rear.
Built-in WiFi hotspot connectivity
Remote engine start lets you warm up or cool down your car from your smartphone
Safety Features:
"Top Safety Pick Plus" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
Forward collision warning
Automatic pre-collision braking
Lane departure warning will notify you if you stray out of your lane
Blind spot detection system notifies you if it detects vehicles in your blind spots
Rear cross-traffic warning alerts you to oncoming cars while you're backing up (super-helpful when backing out of your driveway or a parking spot)
Reverse automatic braking will first give a visual and audible warning—then apply the brakes and stop the car—if there is an object in the rear bumper zone that the vehicle may hit
Automatic emergency steering (optional)
Standard all-wheel drive
Subaru Starlink will alert an operator if your car is involved in a crash and get you roadside help at the push of a button
EyeSight with advanced safety keeps you a safe distance from the car in front of you; it also detects objects in front of you that you're likely to hit and reduces power to the engine to help minimize the force and impact of a collision
Front and rear camera views keep you from missing anything on the road in front or behind you
Up to 9.2-inches of ground clearance makes off-road (or on-road) bumps no problem
Standard rear seatbelt reminder will tell you which seat is unbuckled
My Subaru app lets you set speed limits and boundaries to alert you if your (teenage) driver is speeding or going somewhere they're not supposed to go
Called "posh and powerful by US News & World Report, the Navigator tops the magazine's list of luxury SUVs for its roomy interior and polished features. With three spacious rows, It can easily fit a large family, with room in the back for all the gear (especially if you opt fo the extended L model. Some other family-friendly features include:
Best Family Friendly Features:
Seating for up to seven
Available heated and ventilated front and second-row seats and tri-zone climate control for all
In-car intercom to talk to rear passengers
Two 10-inch screens equipped with Fire TV available for second-row passengers
13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system
Available 30-way-adjustable massaging front seats (available in the second row, too!) with customizable positions
Elegant chimes recorded by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra used for interior alerts (new for 2022)
USB ports for all passengers plus a wireless charging pad in the front seat
Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in Alexa come standard
Wifi-enabled
New Revel Ultima 3D audio system uses 28 speakers to deliver crisp surround sound and custom listening modes
Available panoramic vista roof
Quiet cabin, thanks to sound-dampening technology and acoustic laminate glass
Safety Features:
Lincoln Co-Pilot 360 comes with adaptive cruise control and stop-and-go pedestrian detection
Intersection Assist can alert a driver attempting to turn left by applying the brakes when the camera and radar technology detects oncoming traffic
Active Park Assist 2.0 has side-sensing capability so drivers can confidently navigate out of a spot when someone is parked too close
Self-parking feature for parallel and perpendicular spaces (which helps, given this car's humongous size)
The adaptive suspension system uses the car's front camera to monitor the road ahead of you; if a bump in the road is suspected, the system will prepare the suspension to lessen the impact on the vehicle and keep riders comfortable
Forward collision warning and post-collision braking
Adaptive LED headlamps turn the high beams on and off when needed
Built-in navigation
Available all-wheel drive
The 360-degree camera comes standard
New ActiveGlide technology allows drivers to operate the car hands-free (compatible on prequalified sections of divided highways, called Hands-Free Blue Zones, across the US)
Emergency braking and warning system will warn you if you're approaching a stopped object and will apply brakes if needed
Lane-keeping technology keeps you from straying out of your lane
Jeep's recent revival of its favorite family-hauler has gotten rave reviews, with US News & World Report ranking it number two (behind the Navigator) on its list of best luxury SUVs, and Car & Driver praising its "gorgeous and gigantic interior," and its "dazzling array of upscale features and tech."
Best Family Friendly Features:
Seating for up to eight, with award-winning second and third-row legroom
Available heated and ventilated front seats plus a four-zone climate control
24-way power front seats with massage and power-adjustable head restraints
USB ports for all passengers plus wireless charging in front
Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Alexa-enabled so you can easily connect your music and apps
Premium audio system featuring 23 speakers, including a 12-inch subwoofer with 3D Surround System,
Most cargo volume in its class behind the third row
Power-folding seats in both back rows
Up to 75 inches of total screen display, including a 10 and 12-inch center stack touchscreen and two 10-inch touchscreens (with built-in Amazon Fire) available for second-row passengers
Large panoramic sunroof that opens over the front and second-row seats; fixed window panel over the third-row seats also available
A rear-seat monitoring system that displays a video feed onto the central touchscreen
Safety Features:
Standard all-wheel drive and suspension is built for rugged terrain
Selec-Terrain Traction Management System has various settings for different terrain and weather, including Rock, Sand/Mud, Snow, and Sport—all of which help the car handle all weather conditions
Available digital rearview mirror (for when car seats or gear in the back is blocking your rear window view)
Forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking will warn—and then stop the car—to avoid a frontal collision
Blind spot warning
Adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assistance
Rear cross-traffic warning, as well as rear park assist sensors that will stop the vehicle if needed
Available 360-degree Surround View and night vision with pedestrian, cyclist and animal detection camera
Hands-Free Active Driving Assist allows for hands-free driving on an approved road
Intersection assist will warn drivers in intersections if a car is approaching from the right or left and apply brakes if needed
Available Drowsy Driver Detection will detect driver fatigue and monitor steering wheel behavior; if it detects an issue, it will warn you with an alert
An automatic parking system can park the car for you
Starting price: $87,845 (for Grand Wagoneer); $69,440 (for the standard Jeep Wagoneer)
Sure, sedans represent only a quarter of all new car sales—with many families opting for SUVs or minivans to haul their broods—but there's no denying that smaller vehicles such as the Honda Accord can offer a better driving experience and better fuel economy, with a significantly lower price point. In 2021, U.S. News & World Reports named the accord one of the"Best Cars for Families"—and there haven't been any significant changes in this year's model. It's still got a roomy interior, good tech options and a ton of safety features.
Best family-friendly features:
U.S. News calls the interior "cavernous," with comfortable seating for five and room for three car seats/boosters in the back row
16.7 cubic feet of trunk space makes for one of the biggest in its class, says Edmunds.
Passenger seats have tons of pockets and bins for all your kids' books and small items
Available heated and ventilated seats
Dual-zone climate control keeps everyone happy and warm (or cool)
Drawer inside the trunk for storing smaller items that may roll around while you're driving
Cargo hook for hanging grocery bags in the trunk
Wireless phone charger
Apple Car Play and Android Auto for connecting your phone's apps and music to the car
WiFi hotspot connectivity
Impressive fuel efficiency at 30 city/38 highway mpg for the standard model; 48/47 mpg for the hybrid model
Safety features:
Collision mitigation braking system will automatically apply brakes when the car detects a collision is unavoidable
Road departure mitigation system detects if you're straying from your lane and will help correct you or apply brakes if needed
Available Head Up display shows important driving information—speed, directions and incoming calls—in the driver's line of sight.
Remotely lock your car or see fuel status from your phone
Blind spot information system
A multi-angle rearview camera with available cross-traffic monitor
Smart Entry with Walk Away Auto-lock lets you lock and unlock your car without taking out your keys
Rear occupant seat reminder makes sure you don't forget anyone in the back when you exit the car
Sure, you may only be driving to a kid's soccer game, but who says you need a Mom Car just because you're a parent? The Lexus ES has all the safety and tech to keep the kids protected and entertained plus the looks and luxury of a high-end vehicle. It won the top spot on Kelley Blue Book's list of the "Best Safety-Rated Sedans of 2022," with KBB calling it "a winner on many levels" and "undeniably luxurious." Some other things to note:
Best family-friendly features:
Available heated and ventilated seats, plus a heated steering wheel.
Dual-zone climate control keeps everyone happy, and "Lexus Climate Concierge" automatically adjusts the temperature and seat heater settings based on the outside and cabin temperature
Quiet cabin, with Kelley Bluebook calling it an "oasis of calm"
Available wireless phone charging
Standard 8-inch (or optional 12.3-inch) touchscreen infotainment center comes with a navigation system
Apple Car Play and Android Auto for connecting your phone's apps and music to the car—plus built-in Alexa integration
4G WiFi connectivity
Six USB ports (four in front; two in back) so everyone stays charged on the road
Hybrid model easier on the environment (and your wallet), running about 42 miles per gallon
The trunk can open and close with a kick under the rear bumper
Available all-wheel-drive
Lower LATCH anchors are easy to access with pop-off covers, though the car won't likely fit three car seats
Safety features:
Blind spot warning
Panoramic View Monitor uses four high-resolution cameras mounted on the front, sides and rear of the vehicle to give drivers a bird's-eye view of the immediate area
Rear cross-traffic warning will alert you if someone is approaching as you are backing out
Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection will automatically apply brakes when the car detects a collision is unavoidable
"Sway warning" will give an audible alert if the vehicle is straying from its lane
Adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist
Intersection Turning Assist warns drivers of any oncoming vehicles when turning left across an intersection; it also looks for pedestrians on left and right turns
Automatic high beams
Optional front and rear parking sensors
Siri Eyes Free and Google Assistant are supported with a paired phone.
3.5-liter V6 engine gets you from 0-60 mph in 6.9 seconds (great for easily merging into highway traffic)
Rear seat belt reminder will alert you—and get increasingly louder—if someone unbuckles while you're driving
Keeping your baby healthy and safe involves more than babyproofing. And new technology is here to help. Check out these recently released products that make your life with baby easier, healthier and safer. From thermometers and baby monitors to sanitizers and air monitors, they’re guaranteed to bring you peace of mind.
Sleek Socket Outlet Covers
Hide unsafe outlets with this clever cover! This ultra-thin cover connects to an extension cord with a power strip or surge protector. Keep those cords away from your baby and create a sleeker-looking living space at the same time.
Make sure the items your kids put in their mouth are clean with this compact UV-C sanitizer. It's sleek and small enough to live on your kitchen counter for easy cleaning of toys, bottles and pacifiers—even stuffies and electronic gadgets. This ultraviolet sanitizer and dryer uses ultraviolet C lights to kill germs and bacteria in minutes, without the use of water or heat. Use the sanitizer or dryer on their own or use both combined. When you're not using the sanitizer for baby gear, pop in your cell phone, makeup brushes, shaver or toothbrushes for a cleaning.
Designed by a pediatric ear, nose and throat specialist, the NozeBot takes cleaning boogies to a whole new level. This nasal aspirator uses hospital-grade suction to safely and hygienically clean your child's nose when they're sick. You place two fingers in the ingeniously designed nosepiece, leaving three fingers to help stabilize your child's head. It's portable and rechargeable, and the nosepiece and tubing are dishwasher-safe.
The easiest way to log feedings, diapers, sleep, nursing, pumping and more! Push a button to sync with the app and add any notes in the app at your convenience, so you can track baby's routine and be better prepared for meetings with the pediatrician, lactation consultant or sleep consultant. There's even a miscellaneous button you can use for medication, baths, tummy time or other baby-related tasks you want to keep track of. Attach this user-friendly device to the wall in baby's nursery or bring it with you around the house to help you remember to use it. When you no longer need it, send it back through the company's buyback program.
Available at talli.me, $99 for a new tracker; $69 for a reconditioned tracker; $169 for a two-pack.
Little kids are lightning fast and have a knack for playing with exactly what you don't want them to. Avoid an unfortunate or dangerous situation with the Ally lockable storage container. In it, you can hide away your meds, supplements, passport, valuables, fancy chocolates and anything else you want to keep away from curious kids. The small size (9.25” x 6” x 3.5”) means you can easily tuck it away on a shelf or in a drawer, even the fridge or freezer, but it's sleek enough you won't mind keeping it on display. You choose your three-digit code and can reset it as needed if mombrain makes you forget. Comes in berry, navy and cream and makes an amazing baby shower gift.
Watch Your Mouth USB Safety Cover from Geddy's Mom
Playing with the free end of a plugged-in USB charger can be dangerous for kids, causing electrocution burns in more than 200 kids under age 5 each year. As a doctor of dental surgery, Dr. Sarah Shell had seen the traumatic injuries. And she and her neurologist husband had seen their own son put the loose end of a plugged-in charger in his mouth. So they worked with a team of other doctors, designers and engineers to create a product to keep kids safe. Just snap this safety cover over the free metal connector end of any standard USB cord and you keep curious fingers away from it. The plastic cover has a child-resistant lock and no small parts.
Baby Brezza Formula Pro Advanced WiFi Baby Formula Dispenser
This is a game-changer for formula feedings: Thanks to the Baby Brezza app (iOS and Android), you can mix water and formula to the perfect consistency from your phone! Meaning, you can prep a bottle for your child from bed, from work, from the car, or wherever else you happen to be. Get alerts on your phone that tell you when the bottle is ready, when you're low on formula or water, or when there's no bottle in the machine. Choose from three temperature settings, and whether you want it to dispense 2-10 ounces of liquid. It works with all bottles and virtually all formula. brands.
Give your baby a warm bottle of formula or breastmilk wherever you are, thanks to this portable, battery-operated bottle warmer. Great for road trips, park visits, camping and all of your daily excursions, the Baby's Brew warms your child's bottle in just 5-10 minutes and keeps it warm for 8-12 hours. Liquids can be warmed to four different temperatures, and it's compatible with many bottle types, either with or without an inexpensive adapter (check the website to find out if you'll need one). The warmer is sold on its own ($75) or in a set with a formula dispenser (pictured; $85).
No more waking a sleeping baby to take a temperature reading or getting up every hour to feel their forehead. Apply the small silicone patch (FDA approved and made with medical-grade adhesive) to your baby's armpit and this wireless thermometer will beep and blink red LED lights if their temperature rises above 100°F. Thanks to a 24-hour battery life, temps will be monitored all night long. The device also notifies you about low battery, disconnection and if the device falls off your baby. The large, backlit temperature reading is easy to see in the dark, or you can move the device to whatever room you're in to track the readings.
Here's what makes this air purifier a game-changer: It uses a separate sensor you can place across the room that measures air quality so the purifier can adapt to clean the air more effectively. The filtration system captures pollutants, allergens, VOC gases, airborne viruses and microscopic particles from every direction and then uses UV-C light to destroy germs and viruses trapped in the filter. Once the air is cleaned, the purifier pushes it out in two directions, so the filtered air flows throughout the room. TruSens also sells filters for specific concerns: pets, odor and allergy & flu. The unit comes in three sizes, for small, medium and large rooms.
Reduce the risk of forgetting your baby in the car with this alert system from American Home Safety Products. Clip this sensor to the straps of your car seat and attach the alarm to the keychain with your car keys on them. If you step more than 10 feet away from your car, an alarm will sound to let you know your baby is still strapped in to the carseat. This alert system comes with one sensor and two alarm key fobs.
This combination video and breathing wear monitor has everything you need for baby’s optimal sleep. The overhead camera allows you to see all that is going on in and around the sleep space and includes two-way audio. The camera also reads the fabric patterns on the included electronic-free breathing wear and sends real-time alerts right to your smartphone. There is a wall mount and a floor stand that keep cords safely out of reach and allow for easy portability when you're on the go. The app can show you all you need to know about baby’s sleep patterns and offers tips for making sure everyone has a good night. The Nanit Plus camera works with Amazon Echo and Echo Spot, and the complete baby monitoring system is eligible for purchase with FSA/HSA healthcare benefits. Add Nanit Pajamas ($29.99) to monitor baby's breathing motion in real time without wires or sensors. The pajamas work exclusively with Nanit cameras.
What sets this breathing monitor apart is the fact that there is nothing for baby to wear. To monitor baby's every breath, the camera checks for movements 20 times per second, detecting motions too small to be seen by the human eye. The HD video streams to your smartphone or tablet and sends notifications for sleep apnea, if breathing falls outside the normal range, and for when baby falls asleep and wakes. There is no need for special sleepwear and the monitor is designed to work when baby is swaddled or in a sleep sack and when baby is in different sleeping positions. Other features include two-way audio, night vision and remote viewing.
Rest assured that the air baby is breathing is safe and healthy with the Airthings Wave Plus indoor air quality monitor. Its sensors check the air for serious air pollutants, like radon, carbon dioxide, and total volatile organic compounds. It also monitors temperature, air pressure and humidity, so you can keep conditions optimal for baby. The app dashboard on your smartphone provides alerts and advanced analytics of air quality and offers tips for improving it. The battery is designed to last for up to two years.
With just a few short weeks left before school starts, we’re ready to squeeze every last drop of summer out of the month of Aug. If lazy days and s’mores-filled nights is your definition of living your best summer life, read on! We’ve rounded up the best remote cottages, log cabins and Airbnb cabin rentals that deliver that lazy summer vibe we all crave. Get ready to kick back with family over a board game or a beach book while enjoying the great outdoors at one of these rentals just a short drive from downtown DC.
If you're looking for a classic cabin experience, check out the log cabins at Westmoreland State Park. Some of these structures date back to the 1930s. Cabins 19-24 boast the best views, sitting perched on the top of the park's cliff. From this vantage point, you can easily spot eagles flying overhead. The sunsets don't disappoint, either! Spend the day digging for shark teeth at Fossil Beach or wander the hiking paths that crisscross over 1,321 acres. This park also features a playground.
Editor's note: Westmoreland State Park's pool is closed for the season.
Lake Anna was originally the site of a gold mine and locally known as "Gold Hill." Later, a man made lake was built as a water coolant for a nuclear plant. Today, visitors enjoy beach and lake activities at this state park. There are just a handful of cabins, so book early! Cabin 6-9 boast the best views, but if you are traveling with small children, you may want to consider the cabins tucked safely behind these waterfront rentals. Each cabin has two bedrooms and comfortably sleeps 4, but up to 6 guests are allowed.
This privately owned tree farm has two cabins for rent, both located on Lake Leckszas. These no-frill rentals boast water views for miles! Enjoy over an acre of sandy beaches, lake activities like fishing and boating, and hiking in the near-by Appalachian Mountains.
Fort Lewis is home to authentic log cabins rescued and rebuilt on the farm estate. The Tall Timbers cabin (featured image) was painstakingly relocated from North Carolina. This two-story cabin has one bedroom and a daybed alcove for the kiddos. Step on to the second floor porch to enjoy mountain views. This resort-like property includes breakfast and dinner daily and onsite activities, like hiking, biking, boating and more.
Sleeps: 2-4 Cost: From $420/night; $60/extra for children 2-12 Online:fortlewislodge.com
This cottage in the woods looks like your typical river retreat, but step inside and you will be wowed by the sleek modern conveniences and decor. Step off the deck and adventure awaits. Hiking, fishing and boating are just steps away; a floating dock beckons visitors to enjoy the river. Note: this property is suitable for kids 14 & up.
Sleeps: 14 Cost: From $199/night Online: airbnb.com
If you’re willing to drive a little further for natural beauty, Cast-A-Way Cabin in the Shenandoah Valley should be on the top of your list. There, you'll score a two bedroom cabin with two queen beds and a double futon, so you can have your privacy while the kids fight over who will sleep in the bedroom and who will take the loft.
This privately owned tree farm has two cabins for rent, both located on Lake Leckszas. These no-frill rentals boast water views for miles! Enjoy over an acre of sandy beaches, lake activities like fishing and boating, and hiking in the near-by Appalachian Mountains.
Nestled near George Washington National Forest, this cabin gets the most-remote award. You'll need to pass over a low water bridge and drive up a steep hill (note: a 4WD is a must), but the payoff is stunning valley views and guaranteed quiet. Hike right out the backdoor or enjoy a peaceful afternoon with the board games provided.
This cabin is conveniently located near a number of natural attractions including Shenandoah River, Lake Arrowhead, Skyline Drive and Luray Caverns and just a stone's throw from activities like horseback riding, fishing, golf, and ski slopes. This Airbnb rental comfortably accommodates six people. The best part? It has views for miles.
Insider tip: Invest in a pair of night vision goggles so you can enjoy these views in the dark. These infrared binoculars let you see play Eye Spy with nocturnal animals.
Sleeps: 6 Cost: From $381/night Online: airbnb.com
Before you head back to school, head to this rustic, 1850s stone schoolhouse. This sweet cottage gets it's name from the fireflies that call this property home in the summer. You'll find a fire pit outside perfect for s'mores and nighttime ghost stories. Take a moment to bundle up and enjoy a book in the porch rocking chair. Or head to a nearby family-friendly winery for an afternoon of board games and bordello.
Sleeps: 4 Cost: From $160/night Online: airbnb.com
This historic log cabin dates back to the 1890's. It has been recently updated to include modern conveniences. Take a stroll right out the front door and explore the quaint village of Middletown. Not far, you'll find Frederick, MD teeming with restaurants, shops and public parks. Family-friendly wineries are also within a short drive.
Quaint and quite, this cozy little cabin sits on a 9-acre private retreat and is conveniently located between South Mountain State Park & Gambrill State Park. Enjoy roasting marshmallows in the outdoor fire pit or wander the property admiring the wildlife and mountain views. You'll find hiking, biking, horseback riding and fishing nearby. Note: this home is not suitable for children 2 & under.
The name itself will have your kiddos jumping for joy, and that’s before they hear about the year-round tree cottages, tree houses (three seasons), and…the hobbit house! Each of these sites has its own grill, fire circle, and picnic table. Keep in mind that there is a two night minimum, and don’t forget to bring your own bedding and lights!
If you’re looking for a mountain getaway with all the accommodations of home, Country Acres Retreat is the place. The retreat overlooks a farm and a lake, and is within easy driving distance of Deep Creek Lake. The accommodations include three bedrooms and three bathrooms (sleeps 11 including the extra sleeping area), so find another family to cabin with and you’ll easily fill the whole house, while being able to split the reasonable night rate. There is a two-night minimum.
Not only is Cherry Hill Park thisclose to DC (30 minutes driving to be exact), but you can catch a bus from a nearby metro every hour on the hour. The cottages at Cherry Hill Park come with WiFi, cable TV, linens, and a full kitchen area. For more luxury, check out their trailers, rustic cabins, or yurts. Keep in mind that staying closer to the city means higher prices.
Unlike a lot of other campgrounds, Duncan’s cabins (sleeps four) and 2-room cottages (sleeps six) are full of extra amenities like WiFi, ceiling fans, electrical outlets, and A/C or heat. But don’t worry if you can’t part with your TV or tub—Duncan’s offers rental trailers with everything from a separate bedroom with a queen sized bed to a coffee maker. Easily accessible from Annapolis, Baltimore, and DC, they also offer the convenience of staying close to attractions like the Chesapeake Bay, National Harbor, Baltimore Inner Harbor, and Six Flags.
Sleeps: 4-6 Cost: Call for pricing Online:abcamping.com
Get ready to roast marshmallows while watching the night sky at this Berkeley Springs retreat. Less than a two hour drive from downtown DC, this cabin can accommodate 6 guests in 3 recently renovated bedrooms. Enjoy nearby Cacapon Resort State Park, where you can enjoy the sandy shores of the Park's lake, go fishing, biking, hiking and horseback riding or spend a lazy day at the cabin swinging in the porch swing, resting in the hammock or taking in a family board game.
Insider tip: Pack some kid-friendly fishing poles for lakeside fun. This set include lures, netting and a tackle box in addition to the pole.
The animal kingdom is calling! Sign up for a private tour to have close encounters with animals including lions, tigers and zebras, Friesian horses and camels, reptiles, farm animals, zoo animals and more. We’ve found multiple San Diego spots that offer small group educational tours where your family will be the only ones getting in close proximity with creatures that even include a shark! Most places also offer virtual animal encounters to bring the action safely into your home. Read on to find out where to go wild with your family next.
Experience a day on the farm with a private farm tour for your family. You’ll be surrounded by llamas, goats, rabbits and miniature sheep, horses and donkeys. Farm visits are educational, fun and hands-on by collecting eggs, brushing animals and sipping fresh milk from dairy goats. The tour ends in the organic garden with a playground, turkeys, geese and chickens.
Cost for Private Group: $120 for 1 ½ hours and up to 8 guests
Sugar Sweet Farm By private appointment only Encinitas, CA 858-264-6525 Online: sugarsweetfarm.com
Follow the road to Lions, Tigers & Bears, oh my! You’ll embark on a 2 hour guided educational visit to see more than 60 wild animals and learn about the sanctuary and animal habitats. Other animals you’ll find here are leopards, bobcats, mountain lions and servals, along with dozens of other ranch animals. This ranch is located on an old stage coach stop and you’ll see the historical adobe structure that’s still standing.
Explore this magical animal retreat where you’ll discover over 130 livestock and exotic animals from around the world. You’ll see Friesian horses, zebras, Watusi cattle, bison, lambs, camels, emus and many more. On a private 1 ½ hour guided tour, you’ll be introduced to the animals, learn about their diets, habitats and stories. Or you can visit by appointment for your own unstructured tour and you’ll most likely be the only ones there. Add-on an interactive experience to be let inside an animal enclosure of your choosing and learn all about them from the keepers. Bring your own lunch to enjoy at your leisure at the picnic tables under the big oak tree.
Cost for Guided Tour: $250 for up to 5 people Cost of Admission: $20 for kids, $38 for adults Cost for Add-On Interactive Experience: $35 per person
Walk on the wild side when you book an Interactive Animal Encounter for your private group or family. Choose from furred, feathered or scaled animals that interest you for an up-close experience from 1-2 hours. You’ll learn about their diets, habitats, play games or even make some animal related crafts.
Cost: $75 minimum based on rates of $11.25-$17.25 per child Virtual Visits: $75 for 1 hour
Helen Woodward Animal Center 6461 El Apajo, Rancho Santa Fe 858-756-4117 Online: animalcenter.org
While the Living Coast is still closed to the public, you can book a private tour for an experience you won’t soon forget. A trained educator will take you on a 2 hour tour all around the Living Coast to visit native wildlife like sea turtles, sharks, rays, eagles and owls. At the end, you’ll get to choose an animal for an up-close encounter!
Cost: $250 for non-members, $150 for members for up to 10 immediate family members Virtual Visits: $50 for a 15 minute virtual encounter
Living Coast Discovery Center 1000 Gunpowder Point Dr., Chula Vista 619-409-5908 Online: thelivingcoast.org
Make some fine-feathered friends at Free Flight on your hour-long private educational group tour and learn all about these beautiful birds. You’ll get to feed them, watch them preen and maybe even talk back to you. You can also schedule a 20 minute visit and with their new pandemic protocols there might be 1 or 2 families there, but you’ll likely have the place all to yourselves.
Cost for Private Tour: $120 for up to 10 people Cost for General Admission: $8-$10 per person ages 2+, Free for kids under 2 Virtual Visit: $75 for 30 minutes
Free Flight Exotic Bird Sanctuary 2132 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar 858-481-3148 Online: freeflightbirds.org
Go on a behind the scenes tour at Wild Wonders to see animals from all over the world. A keeper will lead you on a fun tour to meet and interact with their animals, like cheetahs, bearcats, wallaby, foxes and reptiles. Their goals are to rescue, educate and conserve by teaching about wildlife and the important roles they have on our planet.
Cost: $175-$250 for a group of 1-4 people, extra cost per additional person of $15 for ages 5-11 and $30 for ages 12+ (Note: No children under age 5 are admitted at this time.) Virtual Visit: $200
Wild Wonders Bonsall, CA 760-630-9230 Online: wildwonders.org
Adventure around the San Diego Safari Park in the back of your private Safari Truck! You’ll trek into the expansive savanna for an up-close view of the animals. To make it even more exciting, book the Night Vision Safari to see the animals underneath the stars.
Cost for Private Safari Truck: $419* per group up to 6 household members ages 3+ (does not include park admission)
San Diego Zoo Safari Park 15500 San Pascual Valley Road, Escondido 619-231-1515 Online: sdzsafaripark.org/safaris
If you’re heading to the San Diego Zoo, you have a lot of options for your own private adventures there. Check out their Inside Look Tours for private access inside animal habitats to learn all about giraffes, polar bears and others. Or hop on a Discovery Cart for a 1 hour guided tour all around the Zoo with stops at your favorite animals. If your kids are Crazy About Cats, there’s a special tour just for them. This feline-focused tour will feature all of the wild cat species (jaguar, lion, tiger, mountain lion, fishing cat, leopard, ocelot, or serval) with the chance to meet one up close! If you want to see some Animals In Action, a wildlife specialist will bring an animal out to you for an up-close view and take you behind the scenes to learn more about them.
Cost for Animals In Action Tour: $99* per person Cost for Discovery Cart Tour: $319* per cart up to 6 household members ages 0+ Cost for Inside Look and Crazy About Cats Tours: $522* per cart up to 6 household members ages 0+ *(cost does not include park admission, price varies by season and days of the week)
San Diego Zoo 2920 Zoo Drive, Balboa Park 619-231-1515 Online: sandiegozoo.org
Trying to get a wiggly baby to be still long enough to take a measurement can be just shy of impossible. Struggle no more, because the new Nanit Smart Sheet, paired with the Nanit Pro camera, aims to solve this problem for parents. Read on to find out how this dynamic duo will have you tracking those milestones easier than ever.
How It Works
Using AI technology, parents lay their baby down on a Smart Sheet in the crib, then access the Nanit App, select the best image and mark the key measurement points on the baby. The camera processes the baby’s height in relation to the proprietary pattern printed on the sheet.
In the app, you can get baby’s real-time height measurement and can store them to track growth over time. More features including a growth chart and time-lapse video compilation will be available later in the year.
What to Buy
The Smart Sheet is actually compatible with all models of Nanit’s baby cameras, so if you’re already part of the Nanit family, you’ll be able to purchase the sheets solo for $34.99 later this month. If you’re new to Nanit, the brand new Nanit Pro has a sleek design & includes enhancements for clearer day & night vision, a small breathing band to track your baby’s breathing motion, faster processing and higher quality sound including for two-way talk, real-time sound notifications and a variety of white noise/background audio.
The Nanit Pro Complete Monitoring System bundle starts at $379, will include a new Nanit Pro camera and one Smart Sheet that gives parents the ability to measure their baby’s height and growth through the camera and associated app.
These new products are currently available for pre-order on Nanit.com and will launch later this month at retailers including Amazon, Target & buybuy Baby.
When it comes to scary things, 2020 might take the cake. But if you’re looking for a way to enhance the Halloween vibes at home this year, we’ve scared up a decent list of virtual ghost tours and ghost cams that skip the crowds. While you may not be able to go cemetery tripping in person, the silver lining is that you can tour and check out places from around the globe right from your own digs. Scroll down to see more.
Southernmost Ghosts Virtual Ghost Tours
US Ghost Adventures
Known for their super spooky Key West tours (which have resumed for 2020, following COVID-19 guidelines) you don’t have to be in southern tip of Florida to experience Southernmostghost's haunting romps. Check out Ghostflix for on-demand, haunting virtual walking tours from Southernmost Ghosts and their parent company, US Ghosts, of 15 different cities including Boston, New Orleans, Key West, San Francisco, Portland, and Denver.
In addition you can also join live events on the following dates:
10/23 Asheville, NC
10/24 New Orleans, LA
10/27 Boston, MA
10/30 Washington, D.C.
All events take place at 7 p.m. local time.
On demand ghost tours are $13, live virtual tours are $15
Bonus! The parent company, US Ghosts, has teamed up with Amazon Alexa and Google Home: Just say "Alexa, Open Ghost Adventures" or "Hey, Google, Talk to Ghost Adventures" and you'll get a spooky new story from a different city each time.
Loftus Hall is one of Ireland's grandest old estates and reportedly said to be one of the most haunted. From apparitions of former residents, including that of Anne Loftus herself (who was said to play cards with the Devil and descend into madness thereafter) to strange images snapped while on tour, footsteps, whispers and more, there's no shortage of things that go bump in the night.
Now, you can see what happens in the Hall 24/7, as the current owners have installed webcams in nine of the rooms. On Oct. 31 the hall will debut a new online tv experience sure to send chills down your spine.
The Halloween Experience is a new members only website €9.99 at www.tv.loftushall.ie Remember to account for the time zone (Ireland is +5 hrs from EST). Warning: watching the cameras is addictive!
Visitors and librarians alike have claimed to see the Grey Lady ghost, an apparition of a veiled woman who is said to roam the Willard library. Many believe it is the ghost of Anne Carpenter (above) daughter of the library's founder Willard Carpenter. In addition to spotting the ghost, other experiences include water turning on or off; the smell of perfume; books and furniture moving around; and the feeling of being touched on hair or earrings. Sightings have been as recently as August 2020. (Read more about recent sightings here).
The Library has two ghost cams: The Library Ghost Cam, which includes different cameras around the library and is an interactive "hunt" that kids will love. And, the Willard Ghost Cam, which is running round the clock so you can pop over and try to spot her ghostly presence in one of the rooms, and check out additional images caught on camera over the years. You can even download an informational packet about the Grey Lady which includes a map of all of the sightings.
Sarah Winchester was a reclusive woman of wealth who, some say, was told by spirit guides to keep building her home. The result is a gorgeous mansion that has many unique features: including stairs that lead into walls, doorways that open to nowhere, and a seance room with 13 windows.
Visit every odd angle and doorway of this home of the strange with the Winchester Mystery House 360 Virtual Tour. For $8.99 you’ll gain access to an immersive, independent “walkthrough” of the estate, including rooms not accessible during an in-person tour.
These underground tunnels that wind beneath the streets of Paris are home to thousands of artfully displayed bones While there aren't any webcams installed currently, you can take a virtual tour (similar to Google Street View) of some of the tunnels. It's creepy as it comes.
Voted the most haunted museum in the world, this hidden gem in Nebraska houses over 3,000 haunted artifacts. For $5.99 you can sign up to view the webcam after dark. The website says to allow a minimum of 24 hours before your subscription is live, so be sure to take that into account before Halloween night!
Want to look for ghosts in your own house or neighborhood? Check out this Beginner's Ghost Hunting Kit from Ghost Stop which includes an EVP and EMF recorder. If that's a little steep for your budget, this 16-GB digital recorder might be just the thing (plus you can use it to record all those cute Halloween songs they sing). You can also try this night vision trail-cam to catch any midnight roaming visitors.
From Christmas tree safety to keeping tabs on your kids in the mall, these savvy products are designed with for your peace-of-mind this holiday season. Scroll down for five products that are solving common holiday safety concerns in innovative ways.
The Twist and Seal Holiday Light Combo Safety Pack
Twist and Seal
This clever invention is designed to protect your holiday light cords from rain and snow. The pack contains five Twist and Seal Minis, specifically made to fit Christmas and holiday light power cord connections; as well as one Twist and Seal Cord Protect, which provides heavy duty extension cord protection for home and garden use (i.e that cord your running from the house or garage to hook up those blow-up snowmen). Connections stay dry all season and it helps prevent shock and tripped outlets.
Using your address, Ring's Neighbors App creates a radius around your home for you to get safety updates on your phone or tablet (you can customize this radius to be more narrow or expand it). You can also comment on the updates to share additional info. Add safety info yourself and your neighborhood will receive instant notification. Community members can share photos and videos as well. The Neighbors App also partners with local law enforcement to get the most recent updates. It’s a modern-day, real-time neighborhood watch program, right in your pocket. You can be on the lookout for package thefts, break-ins and more even when you aren’t home.
This little ornament from Safer Alarms works as a sensor right at the source; it hangs on the tree and immediately detects fire danger. It also recognized temperatures hitting the “danger zone” and transmits a signal wirelessly to the alarm unit (included).unit. It literally installs in seconds, includes free Amazon tech support, and has multi-year battery life (takes AA batteries, not included).
Safeguard packages against theft by using the Master Lock Outdoor Bluetooth® Padlock on a box or container on your porch. The lock allows you to set temporary directional codes via a smartphone app based on date/time of delivery.. Simply include temporary codes in delivery instructions during online checkout, and then reset the code once delivery is complete. You can also monitor when the lock is being locked or unlocked.
At just under $40 at Walmart right now, (regular retail price is $99.99) this camera is a great investment for anyone traveling during the holidays. It has motion detection and mobile alerts to let you know exactly what’s happening in your home. It has 130-degree viewing and a 360° hinge, built-in infrared LED for clear day and night vision, motion and sound detection, customizable mobile alerts, two-way audio, a remote alarm, 24-hour video playback and more. They also make the Momentum Knok Video Doorbell, which at $130 and offers a way for you to keep an eye on your front door with a live video feed.
BoxLock is an internet-connected padlock that only opens when a delivery driver scans your shipping label—and only active shipping labels at that. It's compatible with all shipping carriers in the US, so no matter who you're expecting a delivery from, your package is safe. Just add the lock to a storage box, small shed or any container where you can close with a padlock. They even have boxes for you to choose from.
Whether it’s walking home afterschool or shopping in a busy mall, this smartphone alternative for kids allows you to know where your kids are at all times. It’s basically a first-phone for kids that allows kids to send and receive messages, features GPS tracking with Geofencing (you can get an alert when your kids arrive home, school, etc.) and a Missed Message feature to make sure you never miss a message from your kiddos. Kids can’t get on the internte or get distracted by a screen, but there are fun features for them like a joke of the day and language translator. Kids cannot dial 911 but they can send SOS Emergency Alerts to pre-approved contacts. It has both a clip feature and an arm band.
Middle-of-the-night diaper changes and cleaning spills may be your new normal, but that doesn’t mean it all ever becomes easier to handle. To help you through some of parenting’s toughest—and dirtiest—situations, we found eight products that are total game-changers. Read on for our picks.
Buckle Me Baby Coats: Jackets You Can Wear in the Car Seat
Buckle Me Baby Coats
When cold weather hits, you bundle kiddo up. But, did you know that the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends taking your child out of bulky coats and outerwear before placing them in the car seat? Avoid the on/off jacket game with Buckle Me Baby Coats, winter coats you don’t have to remove before hopping in the car seat. The coat’s smart design allows you to snap portions of the coat around your car seat’s buckles (watch the video tutorial here). Designed by a mom, these warm and safe coats have been crash-tested, evaluated by first responders and approved by Child Passenger Safety Technicians. You’ll love the collection’s fun, bold colors and its affordability—coats start at $79.99. Sizes start at 6-9 month and go to 6T.
Lark Adventurewear: Baby Activewear That’s Moisture-Wicking and UPF 50+
Lark Adventurewear
Baby’s skin is oh-so-soft, and you won’t settle for clothes that are anything less than silky smooth. Turn to Lark Adventurewear for breathable and soft fabric that will actually last (no pilling here). Their custom cotton-bamboo fabric is called Softek™, which isn’t used in any other clothing brand. It wicks moisture and is made without chemicals or synthetic fabrics. Choose from rompers, bodysuits, dresses, footies and more. The footies (pictured here) feature reverse zippers, extra grippy feet and tagless labels. Bonus: Each piece of clothing is made with UPF 50+.
You have enough to keep track of when you’re a new mom and finding lost socks shouldn’t be on your list of daily tasks. Squid Socks’ unique design features silicone dots on the inside cuff of the sock, which prevent the socks from slipping off (truth—we tested them!). Combine that with a snug fit and a blend of polyester, nylon and spandex, and you’ve got socks that finally will stay on those little feet.
You may not be able to prevent the inevitable spills, but you can put a stop to the sheer amount of stains thanks to Dry Baby. The collection, which includes bodysuits, rompers, pants and bibs, are water, stain and odor repellent. Developed by a former NASA scientist, this smart garment will repel liquid—it literally rolls right off the fabric (we tested this one, too). Dry Baby is made with no harsh chemicals and boasts a variety of fun designs in soft and breathable fabric. Prices start at $9.99.
Gunamuna Zippered Pajama: A PJ That Makes Diaper Changes a Breeze
Gunamuna
With a squirmy baby or during a 3 a.m. blowout, onesie snaps are a parent’s worst enemy. Gunamuna’s newest product, the GunaPAJAMA, boasts a zipper at the inseam for easy diaper changes. Simply unzip, change and zip onesie back up. The footie-less pajama’s supersoft bamboo rayon material is stretchy and the neck opening generous, which makes getting it over baby’s head easy-peasy.
SwaddleDesigns Transitional Swaddle Sack: Ease the Transition from Swaddle to Sleepsack
SwaddleDesigns Transitional Swaddle Sack
Your babe is finally sleeping longer stretches on her own, and now you’re tasked with transitioning from swaddle to sleepsack (cue the cold sweat). To ease this transition and help promote self-soothing, SwaddleDesigns has released the new Transitional Swaddle Sack. It’s arms-up with a fold-over mitten cuff design, which your baby can wear open or closed. The hip-healthy design allows baby to sleep with enough room for her knees and hips to flex, and its two-way zipper makes diaper changes a cinch. Plus, you can’t beat the $22 price tag.
So many baby products claim to make diaper changes easier, but few live up to the hype. ZippyJamz is the real thing. The onesie features two zippers: one that runs from neck to right foot and the other on the inseam. Made of 100% organic cotton, each onesie does indeed make diaper changes easier thanks to the premium zipper along the inseam. Instead of the common neck snap, you’ll find a small cuff that covers the zipper so as not to irritate your baby’s skin.
Whether you prescribe to Dr. Harvey Karp's 5 S’s, have pacifiers in every corner of your house, or live in your rocking chair (or, perhaps, all of the above), soothing a baby is hard work. One mom is hoping to make it a bit easier with her new invention: The Ready Rocker, a portable rocker that allows you to rock baby anywhere. Whether you’re short on space or are always on the go, the Ready Rocker turns any surface (think bed, chair, wall) into a rocking chair. It’s lightweight at 7 pounds and is slim enough to fit easily into your car, in the closet or on a shelf. Available in three different material options and various colors.
If the above list wasn’t proof enough, it’s clear that the baby and kids space is constantly reinventing itself, and we can’t wait to see what they come up with next. While we love new products, we also continually go back to tried-and-true brands we can’t get enough of. Read on for some of our favorite picks from the 2017 ABC Kids & Baby Expo.
Convenience Because Your Life Is Complicated Enough
Beyond more sleep, what any savvy parent craves is more convenience as they go about their daily lives. Brands are listening and they’re releasing products and gear that are not only convenient but also multi-functional. Here are four new products that caught our eye:
If you're looking for functional play mats with a bit more style, turn to Skip Hop's latest reversible play mats. They're designed to double the choices for stylish, baby-safe floor coverings. On one side, you'll find a bright and colorful pattern perfect for playtime. Flip it over for a more modern look that doesn't scream "baby." All play mats are totally PVC-free and roll up for convenient transport and storage.
You probably are most familiar with Beaba's amazing baby-food cookers. And now you have one more reason to love this brand: their maternity and nursing pillow. The pillow is non-toxic with odorless micro-pearls, made of 100% French cotton fabrics and it’s machine-washable. The best part? It doubles as a maternity pillow that will provide multi-position comfort during pregnancy and a nursing pillow once baby arrives. Why invest in two products when you can invest in one great one?
What to really expect when you're expecting: baby gear whose instruction manuals are as complicated as your senior year AP calculus class. Good news: Noninoni Kids is changing this head-scratching rite of passage for new parents. Their baby crib, which debuted in October 2017, can be assembled in one minute and requires zero tools (no joke!). Don’t believe us? Watch this video our editor took!
If you want a diaper bag that uh, doesn’t look like a traditional diaper bag, then perusing Petunia Pickle Bottom’s line of functional and stylish bags is a must (and we don’t use that word lightly). Earlier this year, the company launched its modular Intermix line and after it immediately sold out, they followed up with the new Axis Intermix backpack and this sweet Disney print. With an insulated cooler at the bottom, a removable, machine-washable and water-resistant changing pad, interior pockets and more, this backpack will take you from playdate to playground seamlessly. To say it’s convenient is an understatement.
You’re one loyal customer to your favorite brands. And who can blame you? Your fave products and gear took you from maternity to the newborn stage and beyond. So when tried-and-true brands start releasing new lines of different products, you can’t help but feel little a kid in a candy shop. Here are four worth shouting about from the rooftops:
aden + anais Pajamas
aden + anais swaddles have a special place in our heart, so when the company announced it would be debuting kids’ pajamas, we immediately did a happy dance. The 100% cotton pajamas start from size 12M and go to 4T. Expect great quality, supersoft fabric and signature prints—basically, everything you’ve come to know and love about this beloved brand.
From diaper bags to teething tools to snack bags, Itzy Ritzy just gets moms. Now, thanks to the Milk Boss Feeding Support pillow, we feel like they understand us even more. The pillow is part infant feeding support, part burping pillow and part arm cushion. Slip the pillow easily on and off your arm when bottle- or breast-feeding baby. Its design positions baby at the perfect angle to reduce the chance of reflux or gas. And, when you’re done feeding, position baby over the pillow to rest on their tummy while getting burped.
We could spend hours perusing Project Nursery and even more time swooning over their Instagram feed. But, did you know that Project Nursery also is a leader in the baby monitor space? Their 5” HD Dual Connect Wi-Fi Baby Monitor System will ensure you never miss a moment with your babe. If you’re within Wi-Fi range, use the dedicated parent unit (it has an 8-hour battery life), and if you’re away, rely on the Project Nursery app to check in. Other perks include: two-way communication, the ability to record videos and snap photos and infrared night vision.
You may know Lorena Canals for their washable rugs. And they recently launched a home decor collection featuring some pretty fab items, including the basket tassels (pictured) perfect for storage of toys, blankets, magazines and more. You'll also love their wall hangings, pom pom garlands and cushions that'll really bring any room—not just a nursery or kids' room—to life. Their high-quality new line of decor is just as well-made and charming as their rugs, and we love that the colors and design are versatile enough for any room in your home.
Busy parents deserve products and gear that can keep up with their active lifestyle. If you’re a family in motion, check out these new products to make your life easier:
Maira.Tie Carrier from Cybex
Safety, function and impeccable style are just a few reasons we can’t get enough of Cybex. And their carrier, the Maira.Tie, epitomizes everything we love about Cybex. The carrier offers an ergonomic seating panel and a multi-functional head and neck rest for newborns to toddlers. With padded shoulder straps for crossed and parallel wearing, this carrier can be tied for front, side and back carrying.
There’s a new entry in UPPAbaby’s collection of stylish and highly functional strollers. The Minu is 14.5 pounds and folds into a supertiny package. You’ll be amazed at how easily it folds and unfolds with just one hand so you have the other free for holding baby. Pop the folded stroller into your car trunk, or use the carry strap and sling it over your shoulder.
If you’re looking for a wrap but are a bit intimidated by the long sheaths of fabric (now, how am I supposed to safely get baby in and out of this thing? asked every new parent ever), then you’ll want to check out the Moby Fit. This wrap goes over your head like a t-shirt and then (with just a few knots and adjustments) it’s ready to hold baby as you go about your day. Bonus: Not sure if you placed baby in correctly? Moby has a free service that allows its customers to video video chat with one of their experts to ensure you and baby are getting the most out of your Moby.
When it comes to baby’s well-being—and your sanity—it helps to tap into technology to make new parenthood a bit easier. The app that tracks baby’s eating habits? Love it! The remote-controlled white-noise machine that helps baby sleep? Can’t live without! Now, thanks to Project Nursery’s new Smart Baby Monitor System—the first ever to integrate with Amazon Alexa Voice Service (AVS)—you have one more tool that’ll help give you more peace of mind as a new mom. Read on to discover why this baby monitor is a game changer.
The Scoop
You’re likely used to the video monitor and handheld device combo that keeps tabs on baby when you’re not in the same room. Project Nursery’s new Smart Baby Monitor System takes the traditional monitor to the next level in a cutting-edge way we haven’t seen before.
The system comes with a Smart Wi-Fi Baby Monitor Camera you put in the nursery and an Alexa Smart Speaker, which you can place anywhere in your home and move around to whatever room you happen to be in. Both pair with the Project Nursery app so you’re always plugged into what baby is doing and feeling.
When paired with Alexa, this new monitor creates a system that allows parents to control the nursery’s ecosystem, track baby’s activities, and ask questions of Alexa that receive an immediate response. Alexa boasts 70 baby-focused skills and 10,000 general skills, so you can tell Alexa anything from “play a lullaby,” to “check the room temperature in the nursery” to “record a video” to “tilt the camera more to the right.” This means you no longer have to peek into the nursery and disturb baby to change the camera angle or pick up your phone and open a search browser to ask a question. It’s all effortless, voice-powered and completely hands-free.
What Else Can It Do?
Beyond keeping tabs on baby in a safe and effective way, this system offers other valuable benefits for new parents, who can:
Use Alexa to get answers to everyday parenting questions like, When should I start sleep-training baby? or At what age do babies start eating solid foods?
Order or reorder essentials like diapers and wipes from Amazon because, let’s be honest, running to the store right now with a sleeping baby is not an option.
See, and talk to, baby at night. The monitor includes infrared night vision and two-way talking.
Ask Alexa to adjust the camera angle. The camera can pan, tilt and zoom for ideal remote viewing.
Ask Alexa to play nature sounds, lullabies and white noise directly from the camera to help exhausted parents fall asleep.
Tap into Spotify, Pandora or Amazon to listen to your favorite podcasts mid-feeding because you just don’t want to move a muscle.
Ask Alexa to create reminders about that pediatrician appointment or to check the boiling pasta water in 10 minutes.
The Details
The Smart Baby Monitor System is available in February 2018 for $229 at projectnursery.com. Already have an Alexa? The HD Smart Wi-Fi Baby Monitor Camera will be sold separately for $149.
