Category: gadgets

How my love for the 4moms mamaRoo came full circle

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

I’ve been trying to write this post for the past few weeks, but the tears and heartache continually get in the way.  It’s been one month out, so hopefully, I can hold it together long enough to finally string together a few sentences to sum up where, exactly, I’ve disappeared to yet again.

As a blogger and writer that mainly focuses on baby and kids’ products, like some of my colleagues, I get to experience many of the latest products, sometimes even before they hit the shelves.  And with Joshua’s birth earlier this year, getting a sneak peek at the latest baby gear was no exception. I had the pleasure of reviewing not one, but two great products from the forward-thinking company 4moms out of Pittsburgh.  The mamaRoo and the Origami, both incredibly techy and sleek, are two baby products that not only change the baby product marketplace, but inevitably changed my family’s world, eerily foreshadowed in a piece I wrote for the family-centric tech site, Techlicious.

I reviewed the latest version of the tech-enabled infant seat over on Techlicious, revealing that “The new mamaRoo model ($200-$240 on 4moms.com) boasts faster speeds, new colors and patterns, a locking toy bar and a one year warranty.”

But in my original piece that was tightened for space/relevance, I touched upon how the mamaRoo has been used in hospitals to benefit babies. I wrote in my review about how the mamaRoo has been known to be used in hospitals in NICUs and other scenarios where sick babies need a little extra comfort.

The smartest aspect that I found about the mamaRoo, hands down, is that they’re being used in hospitals to comfort babies in the NICU and other situations.  As stated on the 4moms’ site, according to Pam Schanwald,

RN and CEO of The Children’s Home and Pediatric Specialty Hospital of Pittsburgh, the mamaRoo’s “movements are therapeutic and calming for babies, particularly our Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome patients.The mamaRoo soothes them so they can spend their energy healing and growing instead of fussing and crying.”

While writing that piece, little did I know that I’d be finding out how important the mamaRoo truly is, when used in a hospital setting.  And for those who didn’t already know, last month, at just 4 months old, Joshua suffered a series of seizures within a short time frame.  Because of the nature and pattern of his seizures, it was, undoubtedly, one of the scariest times of our lives.  And here’s how it all went down:
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Baby Days: Nighttime Changing Routine

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

The baby days continue to consume me, both personally and work-wise. After an informative afternoon with famed pediatrician, Dr. Harvey Karp. I was inspired to share our nighttime changing routine, one of my favorite times of the day…for more reasons than the obvious! Find out how we incorporate Stokke, Under the Nile, Badger, CJ’s BUTTer and Fisher Price into our nighttime changing routine.

Earlier this week, I enjoyed a lovely lunch with the amazing Dr. Harvey Karp of Happiest Baby on the Block. I learned so much during the candid conversation over lunch at the book publisher’s NYC office discussing his latest book on sleep. (post to come) And now, with our baby right at 4 months, naturally, there are so many changes going on. He’s turned the corner on sleep, his eating habits are more predictable and his behavior is all around fun.

As a second time mom and mom of a preschooler and infant, I’ve found that the one of the hardest aspects of motherhood is finding balance. Yesterday, for example, finding time to balance the four year old, four month old AND write in between was complicated, to put it nicely. The four year old, like most preschoolers, demanded my attention. The baby sat so quietly for most of the day, but it was the big kid who tested my patience as I tried to make deadlines. Ultimately, something gives, and every time it’s the writing…but, such is life.

And since the baby didn’t get nearly as much attention, I’m SO grateful for our nighttime routine. It’s that one time of day when it’s just baby and me, and we’re both awake, happy and usually relaxed. So, while big bro hangs with daddy, it’s just us for 30-45 minutes of uninterrupted quality time–if we’re lucky.

There’s so many elements that contribute to how fun this can be, but here’s what we’re doing right now:

1. Badger Nighty Night Balm
I can’t get enough of Badger Balm. Truly. I was first introduced to these products via Healthy Child Healthy World. The Bug Balm was the first product we used and now, swear by. And so, when my husband brought home several sample of other balms, I immediately fell in love with even more Badger Balms that I didn’t even know existed! The organic Nighty Nighty Balm is, should I say it, the bomb. In lieu of lotion at night, I use this balm, which has a soft, but wax-like consistency, to give the baby a little post-bath massage. What a life, right? I use this time to help him exercise and stretch those chubberific legs, soothe his arms and then softly massage his chest and back. His coos and smiley face is enough to keep this in my routine. The balm moisturizes well and smells unbelievable. You think the baby smell is awesome? Just add this to the mix. There’s no synthetic fragrances, just chamomile, a little lavender and more. So sweet.

2. Changing Table: Stokke Care
This solid wood changing table from Stokke was our Christmas and Birthday present from my inlaws. While this beautiful piece of furniture deserves its own post, I’ll highlight what makes this such an integral part of our routine.
The first time around, we were city parents who were starved for space. We shrugged off the need for a dedicated changing table and opted for just a changing pad that we threw anywhere to do the job. After over two years of changing anywhere and everywhere our backs ached and that changing pad was practically crumbling for so much usage and handling.

So, this time around, when we were asked what we needed, we said nothing…EXCEPT a changing table. So, why the Care? Aside from the fact that it matches our Stokke Sleepi System, it’s multifunctional and grows with the baby like several of Stokke’s other products. After the diaper-changing days, the Care can be turned into a desk. (I know, right?)  The Care changing table boasts a lot of storage space and is compatible to various heights–perfect for taller parents. (Our backs are thanking us this time around!) The side compartments are just as convenient as the storage baskets that sit atop two shelves. As a cloth diaperer, the storage area is ample for my stash, as well as our bountiful inventory of baby toiletries and acoutrements. This is my most used baby staple, and one that I’m thrilled will truly grow with us!

3. CJ’s BUTTer
Heh. I said butt. Ok, got that out… So, both of my children much like other members of my immediate family, have extremely sensitive skin. Finding a diaper rash cream or ointment that REALLY works and doesn’t use toxins or harmful chemicals can be next to impossible. Burt’s Bees is my usual go-to diaper cream; in fact, the big kid was fond of eating it when my back was turned. Unfortunately, Burt’s Bees isn’t cloth diaper friendly. Thankfully, with cloth diapering, we don’t see too much diaper rash or irritation, but it’s when we switch over to disposables when we’re on the go or on laundry days, the irritation sometimes arises. CJ’s BUTTer which I’ve always seen on cloth diapering sites as a great option for diaper ointment, was sent to me as a sample in a Bluum Box. It was love after first swipe. The ingredients are all natural, it’s made with love by a small company, it works well and can be used beyond diaper rash (for black/mixed hair to separate locks? who knew!) It moisturizes and seals the irritated areas and I love that it contains essential oils. CJ’s BUTTer is my new go-to for diaper ointment.

5. Hooded Bath Towel: Under the Nile
This thick, luscious hooded baby towel is made from organic Eygptian cotton and you can totally tell. It’s both soft and durable and surpasses the quality and texture of the thin baby towels we received from the big kid’s baby shower. We have tons of baby towels, but honestly? This Under the Nile towel is the one I grab every time.  And bonus, my photographer friend, Maegan Dougherty, who has photographed our family many times pre-baby #2, shot some pics for Under the Nile’s clothing line, which can be seen on the front page.  Nice, right?

5. Fisher Price Giggle Gang
Another stuffed toy and one that laughs? Ha! Yes…but this one is too cute to pass up. It’s just a round, vibrant plush toy that giggles when you press it’s belly and it’s contagious and chewable! I have a video review of these guys coming up, but I couldn’t not include him on here because we keep Fuzzy on our changing table to distract Mr. Squirmy baby. Laughs all around!

6. Badger Baby Oil
For our first kid’s baby shower, I received several containers of baby oil. I honestly had no idea what to use it for, so I never really used it. This time around I find myself using it as often as I can. I use it in diaper wipe solution, for dry skin patches and most often after bath on baby’s scalp to help avoid cradle cap. I use just a tiny drop and it works so well. I’ve read articles that say to AVOID using oils on the baby’s head, but alas, this is something I still do and have no issues whatsoever. With with calendula and chamomile, the Badger Baby Oil smells so lovely, I love using it at night to complement the Nighty Night balm. Bonus: I love to include it in so many of my baby shower gift baskets because it not only lasts forever, but it’s a great alternative to the more questionable products in the baby aisle.

There are so many products out there, and many more that we use, but these few just so happen to be the ones we use in our current routine. All of them are fun, sustainable and worthy of sharing!

Full disclosure: the changing table was a gift from family, but all of the other products were either items in a swag bag, samples from a company for review or samples obtained from my husband’s employer, which has no direct affiliation with NKT. As always, all opinions on NKT are mine.

Big City Moms Biggest Baby Shower Ever, Spring 2012

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

Well, they’ve done it again.  The stylish and resourceful moms behind Big City Moms managed to throw yet another Biggest Baby Shower Ever and live up to its moniker.

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Held May 9 at the Metropolitan Pavilion in NYC, the Biggest Baby Shower Ever brought together some of the hottest brands in the mama and baby gear industry, a number of baby/parenting experts and of hundreds of new and expectant moms.  In addition to the high profile exhibitor space, this year’s Biggest Baby Shower brought out a few celebrity parents, many of whom were touting their latest endeavors including Jessica Alba, Chrisiopher Gavigan, Tia Mowry, Liza Huber, Susan Lucci and Melissa Joan Hart.

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I’ve been covering the Biggest Baby Shower since I was pregnant with the Big Kid and I was actually a city mom.  And by “cover” I mean, I went as an expectant mom searching for the latest and greatest in baby gear, and was so inspired that I started NKT as a result. So, without a doubt, this is always one of my favorite events as a mom and blogger.  Because NYC moms–NYC women in general–are considered tastemakers, this event truly showcases the best of the best in baby gear and parenting experts.

I’m sure I’ll go into detail about particular brands I saw at the show, but here are just a number of my favorite highlights of the Big City Mom’s Spring Biggest Baby Shower Ever:

Wean Green

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I adore these tempered glass cubes, which are perfect for baby food and kid snacks.  With all the scary issues with plastics and other questionable materials, glass is always a safe standby.  I actually got rid of all of our plastic containers and replaced them with all Glasslock containers, so naturally, I fell in love with Wean Green, too.

Milkin’ Cookies

When I first heard about Lactation Cookies, I sort of winced out of ignorance.  But quite honestly, after tasting THESE delicious cookies, I’ll never look back.  Created by two moms who are doctors that wanted to continue nursing while working fulltime, Milkin’ Cookies provides nursing moms with a divine treats that also help promote milk supply.  They’re made with a variety of grains and are perfect for the whole fam.  I just can’t get over how delicious AND helpful these have been for me.

7am Enfant

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Well known for their stylish stroller muff, bags and other accessories, 7am Enfant showcased many of their latest styles.  One of my favorites among the pack was definitely the Barcelona Bag, which has a sleek silhouette, is super functional, yet maintains an overall trim size, something not too many diaper bags can do!

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I’ve been following Project Nursery online for many, many years now, so to see their designs in person was truly surreal.  Project Nursery, an online resource for nursery design, showcased a few of gorgeous nurseries at the show.  My favorite, however, was the boys’ nursery that featured a few pieces from the incredibly talented Sam Simon.  If anyone can tastefully incorporate sparkle into a nursery, it’s Sam.

Honest

Created by Jessica Alba and Christopher Gavigan, this line of environmentally safe home and baby care products are making heads turn.  Made with safer ingredients suitable for eco-concious families, what makes Honest unique (aside from the star factor) is the subscription service and impeccable customer service.
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There are so many more brands to speak of, but I will have to include them in another post! So much goodness to go around from this latest Baby Shower. Speaking of which, Big City Moms recently started to make waves beyond the NYC area.  Their Biggest Baby Shower was recently held in other metropolitan cities like LA and Miami, so be on the lookout for a shower near you.

If you are in the NYC area and are an expectant or new parent, and are interested in new baby products or listening to the most knowledgeable baby experts, it would behoove you to check out the Big City Moms Biggest Baby Shower. The gift bag (and food samples at the shower,) alone, are well worth the admission price!
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Learning to Swim as Part of the SwimWays Swim Team

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

SWSSBadgeFinalWith summer just a few weeks away (yay!) and just in time for National Learn to Swim Day on May 19, I’m so excited to announce that we made the SwimWays Swim Team. This is another fun ambassadorship that will allow us to give you the scoop on great kid gear.

So, this summer, both kids will be learning how to swim with SwimWays gear onhand.  The big kid will be learning with SwimWays Swim Step 3 and the babe will be floating along with Swim Step 1. The SwimWays’ Swim Step program is a three-step approach that include swim-training aids to help parents teach kids to swim at home.

Raising Water Babies

I spent endless summer days in our family’s swimming pool and then, as I got older, I lived it up at the beach.  Growing up in a beach town, my summer days were routinely spent in the water, from sunrise to sunset. So, now that I’m a parent I hope to enrich my kids’ summers with the same love for the water.

Jack karate chopping the ocean waves in Va. Beach

We live in a lake community now, so swimming at the “beach” aka our lake, fills our summer days.  Even though the Big Kid has the basics of swimming down, he doesn’t officially know how to swim yet.  That said, I cant wait to help him learn the fundamentals of swimming and how to stay safe in the water.

And now that we have the baby, the wee one can’t be forgotten.  Baby will be along for the ride on our swimming adventures, where we’ll nurture his activity in the water with Level 1 Swim Steps.

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Celebrate National Learn to Swim Day

It’s going to be a fun summer, and I can’t wait for our beach days and teaching the boys how to swim with the help of SwimWays.  Speaking of which, to help usher in those summer days full of swimming, SwimWays created National Learn to Swim Day to help raise awareness about the importance of teaching kids to swim.  On that end, SwimWays is hosting the first annual National Learn to Swim Day Event at the Greenbrier Family YMCA in Chesapeake, Va from 1-3 pm. The event will not only be a grand opening of the YMCA’s outdoor pool for the summer, but it’s also a way to celebrate National Learn to Swim Day.  The event is open to members and non-members and will feature fun activities and goodies.  If you’re not in the Hampton Roads area, you can still enjoy National Learn to Swim Day by visiting a community pool or simply enrolling the kids in swim lessons!

Facts and Tips

Here are some staggering facts that SwimWays passed along:

·         According to the Red Cross, drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury-related death for children ages 1  to 14 years old.
·         Statistics show that children ages 1 to 4 drown most often in home swimming pools.
·         Children were often out of sight less than 5 minutes and under the care of one or both parents at the time of many home pool drownings.

For more resources on pool safety, tips and products for teaching the kids to swim, be sure to check out SwimWays’ TeachMetoSwim.com website.

NKT Faves: Bot Shots, Chan and Skylanders Cloud Patrol

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

As usual, so much has been going on around here.  Even though I haven’t been updating as frequent as I like, I’m always updating Twitter, Facebook and my current obsession (and everyone else’s,) Instagram.

My current Instagram obsession made me think about the other obsessions we have going on in our house.  My Four year old is at that stage in life where he clings onto things incessantly.  And the fact that I review kid products means that his obsessions change with every new package we receive, or so it seems.

So, I thought I’d try to update weekly on what are our new favorites.  It will most likely be a random sampling of things, but all fun finds nonetheless.

1. Transformer Bot Shots

These Bot Shots from Hasbro can be cataloged in a few different ways:  they’re collectible, have a battle aspect and they transform.  They’re small in size, which makes them perfect for young school-aged kids and maybe even preschoolers.  The fact that they’re Transformers adds to the cool factor.  When in battle mode, players can push, then crash into their opponent, and then the Bot Shot automatically transforms.  I can’t tell you how many battles we’ve had with our guys.

I love the low price point for these toys, almost as much as I love the fun play pattern.  It’s competitive, yet creative and all around fun, especially for Transformers fans.

2.  Chan, Pie and Gnon Teethers

I’ve had a lot of baby on the brain as of late, and baby toys are no exception.  I’ve talked a lot of Sophie the Giraffe, but I’m so excited that the makers of Sophie have friends for this famous giraffe.  Chan, Pie and Gnon are rubber, just like Sophie.  These little mushroom-looking characters are easy to grab and even have a squeaker toy inside.  As my baby learns to grasp things, it’s so cute to hear that little squeaker squeak.

3.  Skylanders Cloud Patrol

The uber popular video game franchise is already a hit on the web and on consoles, and now, it’s available on mobile platforms.  Our whole family loves playing Skylanders, so naturally, Cloud Patrol was an instant hit for all of us.  Cloud Patrol has a combination of mini-missions and shooting adventures, which are all easy to play on a touch-pad devices.  The colors and characters are just as vibrant as the other game platforms, and quite honestly just as addicting.  Activision is getting it right with the multi-platform interactivity.  I love the way you can engage characters you already own, just by inputting the number they came with.  Skylanders Cloud Patrol is a game that will be along with many of our roadtrips and train rides this summer.

Yo Gabba Gabba Goodies: New Bedding, DVD and more

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

There’s lots of good stuff on the horizon that our fellow Gabba fans will appreciate.  Not only has DJ Lance and the crew taken over our tvs, toy box and tunes, but now, they’re helping the kids get cozy for bedtime.

A range of reasonably-priced, super cool  YGG bedding in now available at Walmart.  The Yo Gabba Gabba bedding that’s sure to be a hit with tune-loving tots includes a 4-piece toddler bedding set, a variety of blankets and some cool Pillow Pals.
We received a cool toddler blanket, just in time for a recent bug and bout with a double ear infection and then newborn congestion and cold. (ugh!)  Needless to say, this cuddly blanket has been a comforting sidekick over the past few days.  My 4yo has been clutching it day and night, and I don’t blame him.  It’s so soft, warm and because of its smaller size, it’s totally portable.  Even though it’s toddler-sized, it still does the trick for my tall guy.

Super Spies on DVD

And speaking of Yo Gabba Gabba goodness, there’s a new dvd that also recently hit the shelves.  The hilarious Jason Bateman guest stars as a spy in the new four episode of Yo Gabba Gabba!, “Super Spies,” which debuted on DVD on April 17.  Yo Gabba Gabba Super Spies is full of adventure and the usual Gabba fun, but with a quirky musical spy recovery mission mixed in.  It’s been the perfect complement for our quarantined sick days as of late.

More YGG Goodness

And for even more Gabba-related coolness, in case you missed it, co-creator Scott Schultz was the keynote speaker at Kindiefest last weekend.  The musical mecca of the coolest kid music, Kindiefest celebrates the best of the best in the kid indie musical scene.  There was tons of great coverage, but I particularly loved my friend, Amy at Media Macaroni’s take on things.  I’m so sad I missed Kindiefest yet again, but Amy’s recap of Schultz’s Keynote underscored my love for YGG AND made me feel like I was really there.

And just a little more Gabba goodness, I recently had the unique opportunity to interview the other co-creator of YGG, Christian Jacobs.  I love interviewing fascinating people involved in the baby and kid space, but when I get to connect to inspiring creatives like Jacobs, that’s when I truly geek out.  We chatted about the awesomeness that is The Aquabats, the show that’s been squatting on our DVR and reinventing our Saturday mornings.  If you’re a Gabba fan or a fan of punk, or just a fan of quirky shows, tune to The Aquabats on The Hub at 11am on Saturday mornings.  It’s wacky and weird, but oh so funny.  I’ll post that interview soon!

Time to Play Names Top Spring and Summer Picks

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

Just a few months out of Toy Fair, one would think I’d be toy-ed out.  Not so much, friends.  Time to Play’s showcases are some of my favorite events to attend, not only because they focus on the best toys, but because it’s a great one-on-one networking event.  I get to ask questions and really get into the nitty gritty of what’s hot (and not) in the toy realm.

At this year’s Time to Play Spring Showcase, the manufacturers displayed a small selection of their latest wares.  And because it was the Spring Showcase, most toymakers had goodies and gadgets suited for spring and summer play, as well as toys that complement this summer’s blockbuster movie hopefuls.

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Here’s the round up of what Time to Play thinks that’s hot for this Spring.

LEGO Friends

LEGO prettied some of their sets to create this line geared to girls.  LEGO Friends has parents both loving and despising this girl-centric line, but one thing you can’t ignore that it has people talking.  My thoughts: LEGO is and will always be a brand that families know and trust, even if those tiny pieces can stab you in the feet when you step on them.  I may not be a mom of girls, but I’ve seen my nieces and friends’ kids’ play patterns.  Building blocks are well known to encourage creativity and logic, if making LEGOs pink and purple gets the girls inspired, then so be it.

LaLaLoopsy Littles

These characters continue to engage girls with their quirky style and funky fashions.  The Littles are portable and convenient for smaller hands.

Monsuno Cores, Wild Core and Strike Launcher

Monsuno is a show that’s become super popular quite recently, so naturally, the toys are following suit.  This is a line from Jakks that I need to learn more about to get a better grasp.  One thing I do know?  My next door neighbor’s grandson is a huge fan and gave these toys a thumbs up.

Monster High Operetta, Rochelle Goyle and Toralei dolls

The storied characters continue to get girls talking.  There’s a huge fan base for Monster High, so it’s no surprise these gals made it on to the TTP list.

Skylanders Wave 4 Figures

Where do I even begin with Skylanders?  My family is completely smitten with Skylanders, just like many of yours, I’m imagining.  In fact, at Toys R Us just a few weeks ago, I almost had to wrestle a kid for a certain character.  Skylanders characters are hot!  I’ll go more into detail about Skylanders later, but don’t expect this franchise to die down anytime soon.

Squishy Baff

My first thought?  This messy stuff is gross and won’t ever find its way in my bathtub.  Part of that statement is true; Spinmaster sent me a sample, and while it didn’t find its way into the tub, it did entertain my 4 year old for hours.  He played with it on the deck, and I have to say, my opinion about it has totally changed.  I don’t love it, but the kid sure does!  More on this soon!

Movie Toys

The Dark Knight Rises The Bat

ImIMG_9179aginext DC Super Friends Batcave

The big kid received this as his big birthday present last year.  Of all the toys we’ve bought in recent years, it’s perhaps been the best investment.  Kids are drawn to it when they come over to play, and my kid continues to play with it regularly as well.  It’s perfect for role playing and exercising creative, imaginative play.

Classic Battleship Movie Edition Game

The Amazing Spider-Man Electronic Figure

Merida: Disney/Pixar’s Brave Merida Doll, Disney/Pixar’s Brave Merida Forest Adventure

•    I can’t WAIT for Brave.  Actually, the husband can’t wait for it either.  Whenever we see the commercials, it sparks a conversation on how it’s exciting to see a non-girly redhead in the lead role of a Disney story.  That said, I can’t wait for all of these toys to hit the shelves!

Outdoor Fun:

Outdoor toys are some of my favorite!  I loved the ones they picked, but would’ve loved to see something that might engage the older girls as well.  What? I’m not sure….
I’m working on a piece on my favorite outdoor toys, so expect to see  a few of these on that list.
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•    Air Storm Z-X Crossbow

•    The Original Big Wheel Racer

•    FlashRider 360

•    Sandy Lagoon Waterpark from Little Tikes

New York Family: Five Questions with Yours Truly

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

Do you guys read New York Family?  We’re not a New York Family, but I still read it!  Because we live so close to the City, I relate to City happenings much more than I do my local neighborhood weekly.  New York Family is a fabulous print publication that also has a wonderful presence online.  Aside from the fun goings-on, New York Family does a great job profiling New York moms, including many of my blogging friends.

I had the pleasure of being included online in a quick profile, “Five Questions for Jen Rabulan-Bertram.”  Because of my second time new mom status coinciding with their newly launched newsletter focusing on babies and expectant parents, the editor profiled five of my favorite gear, gadgets and goodies for new parents. I can’t say enough good things about our high chair from Svan, our stroller/second car from UPPAbaby, Stokke Bounce N Sleep, TommeeTippee Closer to Nature Monitor and Charlie Banana reusable diapers.

I’m usually the one doing the questions-asking, so it was fun to be asked a few questions for a change.  A big thanks to New York Family for highlighting my faves!  If you’re a new mama or about to be one, be sure to subscribe to their new newsletter.

2011 Top Toys

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

We might be well into 2012, but I got a little nostalgic while putting together an application.  This application process, which involved pinning the best of 2011’s toys, made me really think about what made these toys and games so great*.  But before I go into that, here’s just a few of the hot toys of 2011.  Coincidentally, I was at the launch for two of my favorite toys from last year, but parties and costumed monsters aside, these toys really rocked!

Let’s Rock Elmo

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This interactive and rockstar-inspired version of the the furry red monster, comes with his own tambourine, microphone and bongos. Kids can sing or play along with Elmo or let Elmo be his own one man band with his instruments.  I love how Let’s Rock Elmo can recognize the instruments and does his own little dance.  And not surprisingly, since this Elmo sings and dances, my four year old still loves to rock out with him.  And as I mentioned on my Pinterest description, one of my favorite aspect of Let’s Rock Elmo is that its interactivity is a hit with many special needs kids.

Skylander Spyro’s Adventure

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I have a whole detailed post about Skylander coming up, but I’ll just reiterate what I said on Pinterest. Activision’s Skylander Spyro’s Adventure does what no other video game has been able to do: bring characters to life in the form of functioning collectibles.  And even though he may not totally get the game itself, my guy loves the concept and the whimsical characters—so much so, he slept with his Skylander case for weeks!

Pining for Pinterest

As social media continues to flourish, I try my best to stay at the forefront of it all. Even though I haven’t been blogging as much as I’d like, in our families’ recent health scares and the new baby arrival, Pinterest has kept inspired.  Over the past few months I haven’t been pinning kid products as much, but instead, I’ve been unearthing ideas for my home and brightening up my monochromatic wardrobe!  But tonight as part of the Toy Insider Parent Advisory Board application I submitted, I put together some pins and my opinions on what I thought were some of the best toys of 2011.  I’ll be sure to update my boards with more cool kid stuff.  Pinterest is such a tricky space right now, so I’ll more than likely share my own ideas and repinning everything under the moon!  And since we’re talking about pinning, find me on Pinterest!

*IMO: What makes a toy great

Since I’ve been writing about kid products for a few years now, I thought I’d reassess why I choose to feature the toys and products on this site. Why do I think a toy is great?  Aside from what my own family thinks about a product, I consider these things:

  • Does it have a lot of play value? (this is a biggie)
  • Will it make it past the first month?
  • Is it durable enough to pass down?
  • Is it safe?
  • Is it educational in some way?
  • Will it drive me crazy?
  • Is it really worth it?

As products in general constantly evolve, I still get excited about the newest innovations in toys, games, apps, books.  I count my lucky stars for being able to do something fun and fascinating on my own terms.

Sesame Street: Once Upon a Monster for Kinect is Family Fun at its Best

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

Sesame Street is always at the forefront of children’s media, and the video game segment is no exception.  Last month, publisher Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment released Once Upon a Monster, the first Sesame Street title for Kinect for Xbox 360.

A vibrant, funny, family adventure game, Sesame Street: Once Upon a Monster features a storybook-like experience that allows kids to explore scenarios with Elmo, Cookie Monster and meet new monster friends along the way.  The game features a helpful co-op gameplay option, which, I think, is inherent for young players.  And according to WBIE, through gameplay, Once Upon a Monster underscores social, emotional and other life lessons, for which Sesame Street is already known.

The friendly, familiar and furry monsters, ultimately, were the main appeal of this game for my preschooler.  The dancing and other adventures, coupled with the sharp graphics, “made” this game for him in the end.  From start to finish, and whether they’re big or little, the game involved players’ movement from head to toe, creating active gameplay that was virtually nonstop.  This would be such a fun alternative to movie night or even a complement to traditional game night.  The co-op gameplay feature gives parents a proactive approach to  stay involved in this specific element of screentime.  And although it may not be the most educational title (as far as letters and numbers go,) I do appreciate that Once Upon a Monster gets kids moving–without a remote!

Rated E for Everyone, this game is ideal for preschoolers to early grade school and their family members.  Change up the holiday family gathering monotony! I personally can’t wait to see my 20-something brother join in on the fun!  Coordination and the ability to comprehend basic verbal instructions are important, but a little monkey-see, monkey-do always helps with that.  Sesame Streeet: Once Upon a Monster for Kinect for Xbox is available in stores now and retails for $49.99.

The kid and I were onhand at the NYC Once Upon a Monster launch, where we had a chance to demo the game before its official release.  Suffice it to say, the kid and I both had a blast moving and grooving to “that monster game” as the kid lovingly calls it.  Check out the kid and a few little buddies checking out Once Upon a Monster at the launch event.

Check it

Visit the official Sesame Street Store and save 15% on Once Upon a Monster with the promo code: SESAMEBLOGGER

This offer expires December 15, 2011.

Full disclosure:  I’m an affiliate of the official Sesame Street Store, and there are two affiliate links above.  As always, I appreciate your readership, and by visiting and shopping through any of my affiliate links, you help me keep this site afloat!
Product sample was provide to facilitate this review; as always, all opinions on NKT are my own.