blogs for parents

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Bestaroo


Bestaroo’s new holiday collection is here!

Bestaroo‘s new winter wonderland-themed mommy & me pajamas give back all profits to the Canines for Disabled Kids scholarship fund, which provides scholarships of up to $5,000 to children 18 and under who are receiving service dogs. Your purchase will help to increase independence for children with disabilities and their families by supporting the creation of child-canine service teams. The scholarships offset the cost of dogs for kids with physical or psychological disabilities. One hundred percent of the donated funds will go toward scholarships, which are rewarded quarterly to children across the country.

The happy snowmen and snowflakes print pictures here is designed by six-year-old Isla, winner of their recent drawing competition.

Known for the “yummiest, softest, most cozy fabric to touch baby’s skin,” Bestaroo’s buttery-soft pajamas are made of the breathable and sustainable fabric, Tencel Modal).  Baby loungewear for newborns up to 24 months retails for $28 while women’s styles retail for $48. Available online at www.bestaroo.com.

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DockATot


Award winning invention releases three new cover patterns in the United States.

DockATot is a simple, elegant solution for multitasking parents who need a safe spot for their little ones anywhere, anytime. The unique shape and design of DockATot allows baby to comfortably chill, play, rest, snuggle, log in tummy time and get diaper changes.

Designed in Sweden in 2006, made in Europe and launched in the U.S. in 2015, DockATot baby docking stations provide the ideal hygienic microclimate for babies, with a feel that mimics the womb. All materials used are sourced from top-quality suppliers, tested and proven free of harmful substances.

The company makes the DockATot in two sizes and are lightweight, portable and created with traveling in mind, with rail-like sides for safe, sweet dreams for children transitioning into a bigger bed:

  • Deluxe+ – the ultimate docking station for babies’ ages 0-8 months old or 5-22 lbs.
  • Grand– provides a snug spot for little ones ages 9 to 36 months

In January 2019, three of DockATot’s stylish new cover prints will be available to consumers for the first time. For a modern touch, DockATot is launching two Buffalo Plaid styles in natural and charcoal, as well as a new Black Marble addition to the Stone collection. Far from décor du jour, Buffalo Plaid and Stone are contemporary designs that exude a sense of luxury and will stand the test of time. The new styles were recently unveiled at the Kind + Jugend Show in Germany and will be available at fine retail stores nationwide and on DockATot.com.

“Love and luxury have been exhaustively incorporated in the design process, with my own children in mind.”

Founder Lisa Furuland Kotsianis was inspired to create something new in the baby and children’s industry when my first son was born. “We believe that every baby deserves to be surrounded in a comfortable environment every day of their lives,” she says. “There is simply nothing else like it on the market that allows mothers to feed, soothe and bond with their baby.”

Thanks to the perfect marriage of style and functionality, DockATotⓇ has become increasingly in demand by parents around the world and has won many awards, including the prestigious British Junior Design Award, “Best Of” The Bump and “Most Registered Product 2017” from Babylist.

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UglyDolls Movie


Singing sensation Kelly Clarkson is voicing Moxy, the lead Uglydoll in the new animated feature film, UglyDolls.

Kelly is also performing original songs for the movie as well as Pitbull, who is also part of the voice cast. The film tells the story of Moxy and her Uglydoll friends “as they confront what it means to be different, struggle with their desire to be loved and ultimately discover that you don’t have to be perfect to be amazing because who you truly are is what matters most.” Wow, that’s a mouthful … and describes what many children face in their lives every day.

Robert Simonds’ global next-generation media company STX Entertainment is producing the film and STXtv also has the dual role of studio and producer for the UglyDolls animated kids series streaming exclusively on Hulu. STX is moving beyond traditional platform-driven content to creating talent-driven entertainment with a mission “to unlock the value of the direct connection stars have with their fans through the development, financing, production, marketing and distribution of film, television, VR, digital video, music and live entertainment content.” Wow, another mouthful.

Created as a plush toy line by David Horvath and Sun-Min Kim, the Uglydoll brand quickly gained a cult following around the world. The first hand-sewn plush character, Wage, came to life in 2001. In 2006, Uglydoll is named Toy of the Year by the Toy Industry Association. Uglydoll characters are distinct for their endearing “ugliness,” in a wonderful “uglyverse” where differences are celebrated and embraced.

Their company, Pretty Ugly, LLC is having quite the year. Earlier in 2018, Hasbro signs on as global master toy licensee, Walmart signs on to give Uglydoll its highest level of retail support and White Space Entertainment, global master licensing agent for STX Entertainment, selects Jay Franco as key licensing partner for the UglyDolls brand. Under the licensing agreement, Jay Franco will have rights to a variety of home products, including bedding, bath, pillow, beach and more.

“We are thrilled to be working with STX and White Space on UglyDolls, to develop products that elevate their message of positivity, friendship, uniqueness and self-empowerment aimed at inspiring young people to follow their dreams and never be afraid to be themselves,” Elisha Gordon, VP of Licensing at Jay Franco and Sons, says.

Next year looks beautiful for Uglydolls everywhere. The UglyDolls franchise is set to kick off with the animated feature film slated for a May 10, 2019 release via STXfilms, with additional UglyDolls projects in the works across STX’s multiple divisions, including STXtelevision, STXdigital and STXsurreal.

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Mummy’s Miracle


All-Natural Baby Skincare Miraculous for Baby’s Sensitive Skin

Mummy’s Miracle is an all-natural line of skincare products like no other. The handcrafted and sustainably-produced baby products are the first to use Moringa oil.

What is Moringa Oil?

Moringa oil comes from the seeds of Moringa Oleifera tree, which grows in Africa and parts of Asia. Rich in phytonutrients and anti-oxidants, moringa oil offers a variety of benefits when used in skincare, such as skin purification for an anti-aging, healthy glow. Its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties help skin heal, and its fresh fragrance and moisturizing power makes it an ideal hoice for use as a natural hair cleanser for all ages.

“For years, I searched for a toxic-free skincare regimen for myself and my babies but found none,” says Ify Chuke-Nwobi, founder of Mummy’s Miracle, which she formulates in 2010 after she discovers the power of Moringa. “The more I learned about the harmful chemicals in synthetic cosmetics, the more passionate I became about bringing conscious consumers a natural alternative that actually worked.”

After making her own body creams and oils that combine a cocktail of essential oils, Ify starts using her “potions” on herself and her children – with remarkable results: their skin retains its smoothness, softness and suppleness. It even glows.

“I found my potion so moisturizing and hydrating, I had to find a way to help other mums who were looking for a natural and safe alternative,” she says. Ify collaborates with a chemist and together they create a moisturizing, soothing and hydrating formula with botanicals featuring the miracle Moringa seed oil, known today as Mummy’s Miracle.

Mummy’s Miracle is the world’s leading natural Moringa-based skincare line that includes wash and shampoo, lotion, ointment, oil and vapor rub for baby as well as products for Mom like anti-aging Moringa oil, stretch mark lotion and nipple balm.

Mummy’s Miracle products are made from all-natural ingredients, including the best Moringa seed oil there is, raw honey, shea butter and purified water, as well as essential oils, vitamin E and more, depending on the product. The fast-growing company follows stringent production standards to ensure the products are completely all natural and free from any chemicals or other pollutants. They always put the customer first.

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Get Up and Go!


pediped® collaborates with The Nik Naks to encourage summer adventures for kids.

This summer, award-winning children’s footwear brand pediped® is collaborating with The Nik Naks on an original song and music video that encourages kids to enjoy summer adventures.

The original song “Get Up and Go” follows the adventures of two friends as they take a trip guided by their own imaginations. Equipped with pediped’s shoes from the Adventure Line, they are prepared to explore any terrain, from distant planets to their own backyard. The music inspires children to stay active and explore the world around them. The water-safe, rugged and machine-washable shoes in pediped’s Adventure Line, which has 11 new styles for 2018, are ready to go wherever exploring feet can take them.

The full “Get Up and Go” video can be viewed on www.pediped.com/theniknaks and the song or full album can be downloaded on TheNikNaks.com. Purchase of the album includes a credit on pediped.com equivalent to the cost.

Las Vegas-based musicians Sam Lemos and Jean-Francois are the duo The Nik Naks, the band that imagined this music-based multimedia project appealing to both parents and their children. As dedicated fathers, their combined passion for both music and family life inspired them to expand into the world of kids’ music. Both Sam and Jean-Francois are songwriters, multi-instrumentalists and professional musicians. Their professional credits include playing with Boyz II Men, Cirque Du Soleil, Matt Goss and Noel Gallagher. They are also involved in many original projects in the burgeoning Las Vegas music scene.

The pediped® Spring/Summer 2018 Adventure Line is now available for purchase online at www.pediped.com and in select retail stores.

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RockEase


Introducing the First Portable Rocking Chair Solution 

Now available for pre-order, RockEase is the first compact, easy-to-use and portable rocking chair solution that quickly converts any standard four-legged chair into a rocking chair. Taking an average of 90 seconds to install, RockEase is the perfect solution for parents needing easy access to a rocking option at home and while traveling.

The lightweight yet sturdy RockEase easily slips into a standard diaper bag or large purse, making it ideal for homes where space is at a premium and for families on the go. Soothing, nursing and rocking children while visiting grandparents and extended family is a breeze with RockEase.

While many baby gliders can cost thousands, RockEase is a budget-conscious solution for families and businesses -including hospitals, doctor’s offices, hotels and more- seeking a rocking option for guests.

Founder and mother of two Jenna Zielbauer creates RockEase after she struggles with traveling and overnight visits where a rocking chair is not readily available. Rocking is an integral part of her first daughter’s bedtime, soothing and bonding routines that very quickly becomes a necessity. When her second child is born, she suffers from postpartum depression and anxiety. Rocking is the only solution that helps her emotional wellbeing when dealing with her son’s consistent crying bouts throughout the day. After extensive research resulting in no real solutions, Jenna decides to fill the “traveling rocking chair” void with RockEase.

Weighing approximately five pounds and measuring 36-inches long when assembled, RockEase is made of heavy-duty, neutral-colored plastic material that holds a maximum weight capacity of 400 pounds. Safety-tested and patent-pending, RockEase accommodates any standard four-legged chair without additional equipment or adaptors. No extra tools needed.

How It Works

Grab RockEase from your closet, diaper bag or luggage, simply slide the rails together and secure to a chair using finger-friendly safety knobs. Staying at a hotel where a four-legged chair may not be readily available? Call the front desk and kindly ask for a dining or banquet chair to be brought to your room. RockEase can be assembled and installed in as little as 60 seconds, so you’ll be rocking in no time.

To learn more about RockEase and pre-ordering, visit www.rockease.com

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Picture This Clothing


Wear Your Imagination.

Jaimee Newberry is co-founder and CEO of Picture This Clothing (made with love in Las Vegas), a company that lets kids and their parents design their own clothes.

She’s also Mom to daughters Sophia and Zia and her company has a wonderful back story:

“One winter break, Zia draws a picture of a rainbow dress. When I see it, I excitedly say, ‘I can make that!’ Nearly $100 of fabric and 12 hours of work later, Zia puts on the finished dress and exclaims, “I’m wearing my imagination!’”

And so, a fabulous tagline is born. After seeing Zia’s excitement, Jaimee sets out to make it possible for other children to experience the gift of wearing their imagination. Her first challenge is getting the cost down to something that could be practical for everyone. It is her boyfriend who comes up with the big idea of transforming kids’ artwork directly into their own custom-designed clothes.

“Picture This Clothing was born through this story of fun, creativity, and love right in our own home,” Jaimee says. “Thanks to an amazing growing team, we are proud to share it with you and your family.”

How It Works

  • Print & Design – Print out a template and watch your kids unleash hands-on imagination
  • Picture This Magic – Send a good picture of the artwork and Picture This will bring it to life
  • Rock Your Creation – Wear your imagination out loud with your amazing one-of-a-kind piece of art

Kids (and Big Kids) can create dresses and t-shirts; there’s also an option to create a personalized gift certificate and birthday cards. You can also shop their ready-made designs, too.

Picture This also offers party kits that make the experience of designing your imaginative clothing a crazy-fun group activity. They have all the materials to help you plan the event, including invitations, prep-checklist, supplies, themes and an RSVP guest list. Print out as many free t-shirt and dress templates as you need, take lots of photos and be sure to get your party discount code as well as tips on how to photograph.

Sounds fantastically fun!

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Delicate Seams


Bridging the gap between young girl and young lady.

Delicate Seams is a line of age-appropriate, inclusive garments for adolescent girls, available for sale at Delicate Seams’ e-commerce destination, delicateseams.com. The amazingly comfortable undergarment line is a labor of love for Southern California mompreneuer Aida Yodites. “As a mother, I simply could not be more proud and excited about Delicate Seams, which was founded on the simple principles of being functionally comfortable, age-appropriate, and inclusive, inspired by the needs of my daughter, Faith,” Aida says.

Delicate Seams’ first offering is a line of undergarments for girls ages 10 to 14, in a variety of inclusive tones for girls of all ethnic backgrounds.

Aida says Delicate Seams must be seen – and tried on – to be believed. Not satisfied with what’s available in the mall and big box stores, she created a line of girls’ clothing that is truly a cut above: amazingly soft and comfortable, with forgiving fabric, ensuring that each piece can accommodate a variety of body types. “This is the only line of undergarments for girls in this age range that I’m aware of to feature flesh color tones from across the spectrum, ensuring that girls of all backgrounds can experience the Delicate Seams difference!”

For Aida, her beautiful new brand is also about bringing positive messages to adolescent girls – promoting modesty and building confidence. Aida plans to launch a line of sleepwear and a line of swimwear for tween girls in the future.

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Talula Little


Namaste – A yoga-loving organic baby wear company.

Talula Little is an ethically motivated, family run business that just introduced the first of its GOTS-certified organic cotton baby wear – a fun collection of bandana dibble bibs that features adorable yoga-inspired illustrations and graphics. In fact, the company’s mission is to make beautifully handcrafted baby clothes that are comfortable and fun to wear.

“Our first project combines all the things we love the most – practicality, a holistic lifestyle and ethical mindfulness,” Lisa and Aviv tell us. “We are so excited that we couldn’t help ourselves and have included some poses inspired by our own little yoga baby!”

Every time you purchase a Talula Little product, you are supporting the production of organic clothing, encouraging its growth and actively contributing to a better and more sustainable world. That’s because Lisa and Aviv buy directly from co-op organic farmers in India in full compliance with Global Fair Trade practices.

“We have a toddler girl and everything we do is to empower her future. We firmly believe in organic production. It is so vital to the sustainability of our planet and for the next generation.”

Lisa and Aviv also believe that a healthy and positive lifestyle is the key to living well. Through practicing and teaching yoga, sensible eating and being mindful to use ethically sourced products wherever possible, they aspire to be extremely conscious in how they manage their daily lives – even as new parents.

“We all strive to give our little miracle-bundles only the best we can in life. However, this is often quite expensive and inevitably out of reach for some. Of course, there are countless cheap and cheerful baby products out there to cater for struggling parents. But in our experience, cheap and cheerful comes with a cost of its own – inferior quality and longevity sacrificed for price and profit.”

Lisa and Aviv dreamed about contributing to the community in some way and raising their own bundle of joy gave them the push to finally grow “a small business baby,” Talula Little. “We are so proud to say that our products are not only fun and comfortable to wear, they are ideal for a baby’s soft, delicate and developing skin, especially Eczema sufferers.”

New collections coming soon.

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Cooee Kids


An exciting and new, 100% certified cotton clothing line for kids.

When Anna Hesemenn and Naomi Wells meet while living in Uganda, they enjoy a mutual admiration and curiosity for the fabulous cotton available in this African country. Together with Cotton Made in Africa (CmiA), they create a company that makes children’s clothes with respect to the planet, the environment, the development and empowerment of people, and the fabulous raw materials they use. With social responsibility and good ethics at its core, their company ensures the entire production process supports the Ugandan people who make the clothes – from the farmers to the seamstresses.

Cooee is a new, sustainable kids clothing brand that makes beautiful everyday clothes for children ages two through seven. All garments are made exclusively from 100% CmiA-Certified African cotton grown and produced in Uganda. Anna and Naomi – who still live in Uganda – personally ensure the integrity of the field-to-fashion production line, working closely with artisans to make a positive impact. Cooee Kids also features unique hand-drawn print designs that engage a child’s imagination.

“We are both hugely excited to launch our first Spring Summer collection,” Naomi says. “It’s a dream come true for us. We care about our planet and how we leave it for future generations. Parents across the globe care more and more about where their children’s clothes come from and we are one of a handful of brands that can guarantee their fabrics provenance. We manage the entire production process first-hand and ensure every single garment meets our stringent measures.”

Cooee Kids’ SS18 collection of dresses, skirts, t-shirts and shorts brings to life things that make kids smile. The girl’s hero piece is the sky-blue monkey love dress that features a montage of monkeys printed around the neckline. Boys can choose a from a t-shirt printed with a mischievous crocodile on a bicycle, to a surfing monster catching a big wave.

Cotton Made in Africa (CMIA) is an initiative of the Aid by Trade Foundation (AbTF) that helps smallholder cotton farmers improve living conditions in Africa for both themselves and their children. Child labor, dangerous pesticides and genetically modified cotton are strictly forbidden. Smallholder farmers get a fair and timely payment and are trained in modern, efficient and sustainable cotton farming practices. This helps the farmers to generate higher yields and incomes.

Anna and Naomi introduced their first Cooee Kids collection to the UK and German children’s markets in early March. When will it be available in the States? Ask them, right here.