Real Mom Media 2014 Baby Guide

Mama’s Got a Brand New Bag | Picking the Perfect Diaper Bag

Someone to Watch Over Me | Check Out the New Angelcare Monitor

The Scoop on Feeding| Your Must-Haves from birth to toddler!

Spark a Revolution with SparkBox Toys | Play, Learn, and Return

The Scoop

on must-haves for you and your baby

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Choosing the right stroller

NOT YOUR ORDINARY NURSERY

CONTENTS 4.

Choosing the Right Stroller 6.

On the Go Essentials 8.

Mama’s Got a Brand New Bag 10.

Whatcha Got in that Bag? 12.

Someone to Watch Over Me 14.

Heath & Safety Must-Haves 18.

Yummy in My Tummy 20.

The Low Down on High Chairs 21.

Solid Feeding Essentials 22.

Gearing Up for Baby 24.

Baby Gear 26.

Spark a Green Revolution with SparkBox Toys 28.

Not Your Ordinary Nursery

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The Scoop on Must-Haves for You and Your Baby

real mom media PUBLISHER

Joey Fortman SENIOR EDITOR/CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Stephanie Glover CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Stephanie Anderson Kelly Brown Shannon Szemenyei Heather Schugar All Rights Reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Distribution of this magazine does not necessarily constitute an endorsement or reflect the opinion of this publication.

Copyright © 2014 Real Mom Media

Oops we did it again!

Welcome to the second edition of our Real Mom Media Baby Guide!

We know that whether you are a first time parent or a seasoned parenting vet, raising a family can be an exciting {and stressful} time! In this year’s edition, we are bringing you some of the best products, advice, and resources that will help you with raising a happy family!

We asked some veteran moms to help contribute to our second annual edition to give you some real life tips on what you need...and what you can skip! We searched through every baby brand out there and compiled our absolute favorites, such as Joovy, Tommee Tippee, and Safety 1st. Brands that we rely on year after year. Not only will these brands get you through the first few years but they will grow with you and your baby.

Joey & Steph Two moms...keeping it Real

Missed our previous edition? View it HERE. Catch up on all Real Mom Media baby and parenting content on our website at www.realmommedia.com! Š 2014 Real Mom Media

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CHOOSING THE RIGHT STROLLER

BY STEPHANIE GLOVER

The right stroller makes a big difference in the ease and joy you will have with your baby. Your stroller will be one of the most used pieces of baby gear you will buy. When picking out your stroller, keep the following things in mind.

Try it out!

When shopping, make sure you actually try the stroller out. Push it around the store. Try it fold it up. Feel how heavy it is. One thing to really take into consideration is the handle. Pushing a stroller with a too high or too low handle can be a strain on your back!

Will it fit?

Fold the stroller up and make sure it will fit in your trunk, in your closet, or wherever you will be storing it when not use.

Check out the accessories.

Having a large basket underneath the stroller and cup holders will definitely make your life easier when you are out and about.

Consider your climate.

If you live in an area where it snows a lot or in the city, you wont to look for a stroller with all terrain tires.

This will help you push your stroller through the snow or on the bumpy city streets.

Stephanie Glover is a photographer, social media addict and coffee lover. She faces life one latte at a time on A Grande Life.

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The Scoop on Must-Haves for You and Your Baby

Joovy Scooter The new Joovy Scooter stroller has a unique look and all the right features. Like all of the Joovy strollers, the seat and canopy are made of super durable 600D fabric, and it includes the same adjustable 5 point harness, huge Joovy canopy, bumper bar, cup holders and zippered pocket for parents, plus a great storage basket with a unique zipper access. You will love the recline system that locks in infinite positions all the way down to 149° for a near flat napping position. All four wheels have sealed bearings for great handling and easy pushing. Plus, the Scooter has 4-wheel suspension to help smooth out the bumps. Retails for $299.99.

Joovy Xoom 360 If you like to hit the trailsor go for a run, you are going to need a good jogging stroller. The suspension, with 3-inch travel, smooths out the bumps and provides a comfortable ride for your little one while Joovy'ssignature over-sized canopy provides the best sun protection available. Retails for $269.99.

Joovy CocoonX2 The CocoonX2 is a double stroller-jogger -bicycle trailer all in one! The Cocoon is the wisest investment for the active family. The Cocoon has a cocoon-like compartment where my child sits completely content and out of the elements. Retails for $549.99.

Joovy Big Caboose Families with three young children will love Joovy’s Big Caboose Stand-On Triple stroller - how else could one parent take three children out at once? The Big Caboose includes two full size seats with canopies, two child trays and two foot rests - and your 3rd older child can ride on the patented rear platform. Retails for $379.99. © 2014 Real Mom Media

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ON THE GO ESSENTIALS BABY K’TAN BABY CARRIER The Baby K’tan Baby Carrier is an innovative soft cotton baby carrier that is an ideal blend of a sling, wrap and carrier, providing the positions and benefits of all three.

There is no other carrier available like it. It is a readyto-wear wrap that enables parents & caregivers to comfortably carry infants and toddlers (from birth to 3 years) in multiple positions. Retails for $49.95.

JOOVY BUMPRIDER

The Joovy Bumprider is the most universal stroller board available on the market today. It is guaranteed to fit all stroller types due to its unique construction which gives you almost endless adjustment possibilities.

PACIFIER CLIPS

No more dropped and lost pacifiers! Slip ribbon through pacifier opening, slide clip through ribbon loop to create a slip knot, securely attach clip to child’s clothing. Retails for $8.00.

The arms are adjustable in width, length and height.

The Bumprider’s quick-release clamps allow for easy mounting and removal from your stroller. The platform features a non-slip surface and the wheel suspension system ensures a smooth ride, even on bumpy roads.

The Bumprider is suitable for children from 2 to 5 years of age and up to 45 lbs. Retails for $119.99.

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The Scoop on Must-Haves for You and Your Baby

CLOSER TO NATURE NURSING COVER Nurse in comfort and confidence with the Closer to Nature Nursing Cover.

The Closer to Nature Nursing Cover enables moms to nurse in public with confidence. It has an adjustable strap for extra comfort and to allow a clear view of baby and is available in two stylish designs. Retails for $32.99.

WOODLAND TAKE-ALONG ARCH

Beautifully designed and easy to carry, this cute stroller toy will amuse and engage baby. Stimulates visual development and fine motor skills. The flexible arch allows to easily angle toy towards baby. Designed with basic patterns and colors to attract baby’s attention. Universal large clip fits most strollers and baby carriers. Retails for $24.99.

LITTLE LINKER

Just attach one loop of Little Linker around your stroller, carseat, orhigh chair and the other loop around a sippy cup, bottle, or your little one’s lovey! Retails for $12.00.

© 2014 Real Mom Media

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MAMA’S GOT A BRAND NEW BAG

BY STEPHANIE ANDERSON

There are many essentials that new parents must procure before birthing a baby. This new addition to the family needs a place to sleep, clothes to wear, diapers to dirty and more. One of the most necessary items any seasoned parent would advise newbie moms and dads to get would be The Diaper Bag. Having a dependable diaper bag that is always stocked with the necessary items ready-to-go makes the lives of new parents a little easier (and more mobile).

Strap This is the very item on the diaper bag that will tether it to your body. You want to make sure it is comfortable but not flimsy.

The strap to your diaper bag should not be digging into your shoulder. Many straps will have a padded section to wear over your shoulder. As a matter of preference, some people prefer two straps or a diaper bag that is worn like a bookbag. Regardless of the preference, make sure the straps are durable. Because the last thing you want is to be hauling a baby across the street in mid-day traffic and having the strap give way leaving the contents of your diaper bag strewn across the road (believe us on that!)

Fabric Sure, you want it to look pretty. But after the first few times of using your diaper bag, you’ll want to know two things: is it durable and is it washable. This bag will be coming with you on all sorts of adventures, as well as undergo the scrutiny of a newborn that eventually turns into a climbing/gnawing/exploring/tearing/throwing baby. It needs to stand up to being dropped, rained on, thrown, puked upon and used as an alternative teething apparatus. Speaking of puke, your bag will soon become a petri dish of many kinds of material, from bodily fluids to food grade messes. It needs to be easily washed without falling apart.

Compartments While a big open space in nice, having various compartments and pockets becomes a super important attribute of a diaper bag. Compartments, dividers and pockets help you to organize. One side can be devoted to diaper-changing items, and the other can hold things for feeding. Pockets are great for storing all the extras: extra pacifiers, extra onesies, extra bottles, and extra granola bars because MOM: You need to eat too! Some diaper bags are equipped with special insulated compartments that can keep a bottle warm or cold, depending on the need. These diaper bags get a big high-five from us!

Size This may be more of a preference-related detail. But a diaper bag needs space. Some may be small and cute, but if you can only fit one diaper within it you will quickly outgrow it. One diaper may be enough to hold you for a quick outing, but longer jaunts require several diapers, clothing changes and feeding items. You need one diaper bag to hold it all, relieving you of the anxiety, “Did I bring everything?” We recommend keeping your diaper bag stocked at all times (minus bottles or refrigerated food, which can be added at the time of departure). This simplifies your life so you are always ready to go!

Weight This may be a no-brainer to some. But it is so easy for first-time parents to register for a diaper bag on looks alone, often without trying it in person at the store. What looks pretty online may turn out to be a monstrosity that weighs more than the actual new baby. The bodies of new parents quickly adapt to the weight of carrying many things: a new baby, a carseat, a diaper bag. Many times, all three at once. If possible, test items in the store before buying or registering. Pick a diaper bag that is durable and washable with enough organizational compartments, but isn’t a burden on the shoulder. There are plenty of great diaper bags that offer everything a parent needs without being a boulder with a strap!

Skip Hop’s Duo Signature Diaper Bag Featuring a new ‘no-tip’ design, the Duo Signature now includes grab handles, 10 pockets and custom hardware with a metal ring for toys. The company added a zip closure to the main compartment and, like previous Duo editions, the Duo Signature’s features include patented Shuttle Clips and nonslip stroller straps, which allow easy conversion from a shoulder bag to a stroller bag.

To stay current with advances in mobile technology, the Duo Signature easily accommodates digital tablets and laptop computers up to 15”, and an easy-access front “tech pocket” holds most popular smart-phones. Retails for $60.00.

Stephanie Anderson is the nutella obsessed mom behind Confessions of a Stay at Home Mom. When she’s not licking the bottom of the empty Nutella jar, you can find her chasing after her two adorable little girls.

© 2014 Real Mom Media

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WHATCHA GOT IN THAT BAG?

MUNCH SNACK CONTAINER

Munch out. You know you want to. We love Munch because it keeps snacks totally intact and easily accessible.

Carry it around or set it in a cup holder and hit the road.

The lid rotates shut so snacks don’t jump out. Retails for $7.49.

PACIFIER & NIPPLE WIPES RAZBABY Closer to Nature Pacifier and Nipple Wipes for your complete peace of mind.

Inspired by nature, the ultimate teether presented in a surprising way.

Pacifier and Nipple Wipes are perfect for emergency clean-ups at home and on the go, helping to ensure that pacifiers, nipples, teethers and other toys and equipment are hygienic for little mouths. Retails for $4.99.

First Hands-Free all Silicone teether, with stimulating Multi-Textures that soothe while they play for a happy teething baby - can be frozen for extra soothing comfort. Retails for $4.99.

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The Scoop on Must-Haves for You and Your Baby

WONDER BIB

The original Wonder Bib is an essential item for every baby. Bright, fun and oh so practical..... Our Wonder Bib Range - the bib that really works! Made from 100% cotton, super-absorbent velour toweling with a nylon water resistant backing to keep babies dry. Our Wonder Bibs protect against dribble rash and eczema and are an essential purchase for infants with reflux. Our products are all machine washable, dryer safe, colorfast and stay looking good long after purchase. Retails for $8.95.

MOMMY’S MAGIC KIT

EASY SCOOP FEEDING BOWLS

Mommy’s Magic Kit includes 12 “in a pinch” products for Moms on the Go like disposables bibs, placemat, potty pad, crayons, bandages, baby wash, soothing cream, sunscreen, antibacterial wipes all in a multi-purpose clutch! Retails for $25.00.

The Easy Scoop Feeding Bowls with Lid and Spoon pack includes 2 bowls, a leak-proof lid and an easy-grip spoon. They are a must-buy for easy feeding on the go.

The easy-scoop triangular base helps with self-feeding.

Retails for $5.99.

Care, Play, Save the Day! The Mommy’s Magic Kit is the must-have baby shower gift!

Feeding on the go? Get it covered with the Explora Easy Scoop Feeding Bowls with Lid and Spoon.

© 2014 Real Mom Media

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SOMEONE TO WATCH OVER ME

BY KELLY BROWN

Kelly Brown is the hilarious writer behind The Turnip Farmer. She recently re-entered the world of newborns with the arrival of her second child, Archer.

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Do you know what happens when you wait nearly six years between babies?

You forget nearly everything you learned from the first one. You forget how much they cry, sleep (or perhaps don’t), eat, and how much laundry you will do. You forget that you won’t get to shower for days on end. You may even forget your own name. (Or in my case, the newborn’s name...the newborn that I was looking directly at when a curious stranger asked his name.) Most of all, you forget about the confidence you gained with the first baby.

The Scoop on Must-Haves for You and Your Baby

Everyone says ‘Sleep when baby sleeps!’ but instead I’d lay awake all night watching my daughter’s chest rise and fall. I made myself crazy from lack of sleep. I made her miserable when I’d poke her ‘just to check’. I couldn’t do that this time around and that’s why I chose the AC1200 Angelcare® Video Movement & Sound Monitor for Smartphone. The Movement Sensor Pad will alert me to any lack of movement greater than 20 seconds.

What’s even better is that it reports right to my smartphone or tablet - something I have on my person nearly 24 hours a day.

In addition to movement monitoring, I can peek in on my son with the Angelcare app without ever disturbing him. The camera sends video to your phone or tablet and also allows you to record video or still photos of your lil’ pumpkin sleeping and being oh-so-adorable. Now I can delight all of my Facebook friends with even more photos of the cutest baby boy ever (that’s a fact).

Technology is transforming the way parents are monitoring babies in their homes. My favorite feature of this monitor though, is the ability to share the experience privately with other family members. The AC1200 allows up to four users at a time to remotely access the camera for viewing, two-way chatting with the baby, or taking stills and videos. As a mom that works outside the home, it brings me great comfort to know that my husband and I can check in on our boy at naptime. And the grandparents are especially delighted to have an extra look into the daily life of their precious bundle.

So waiting six years between babies isn’t so bad. I’m still not getting a lot of sleep between diapers, feedings, and fussing. But when I do sleep, it is soundly, thanks to the renewed confidence I found with the AC1200 Angelcare® Video Movement & Sound Monitor.

New Monitor Features

· 2-way talk-back feature that allows parents to communicate with baby from anywhere · under-the-mattress sensor pad, which monitors baby’s movement giving parent’s peace-of-mind · nursery night light · adjustable HD infrared camera · variety of lullabies to lull baby to sleep The password-protected monitor can accommodate up to 4 simultaneous users at a time.

Retails for $299.00.

© 2014 Real Mom Media

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HEALTH AND SAFETY MUST HAVES ONBOARD™35 AIR SE INFANT CAR SEAT The Safety 1st onBoard™35 Air SE Infant Car Seat with Air Protect® Side Impact Technology brings advanced protection to babies all the way from a tiny 4 to a tall 35 pounds. Air Protect helps save lives by providing extra protection where it’s needed most: around the head.

With an adjustable base, it’s easy to adjust the seat to fit a variety of vehicles. Retails for $159.99.

SOFTBUMS CLOTH DIAPERS

DELUXE HEATH & GROOMING KIT

Babies come in all sizes, not just small, medium and large. Unfortunately disposables and one-size-fits-all diapers with a snap down rise just can’t fit all babies.

And a bad fit is the biggest culprit for leaks, blowouts, red marks, and sagging diapers. Yuck! The solution?

SoftBums patent pending Slide2Size diapers give you a Super Fit! It really changes everything! Don’t settle for a bad fit anymore! Retails for $21.95.

The Deluxe Healthcare & Grooming Kit by Safety 1st contains the health and grooming items you want to take with you while on-the-go! It features a fashionable wrapping clutch case with zippered compartments to help you easily keep things where you need them.

Retails for $19.99

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The Scoop on Must-Haves for You and Your Baby

INFANTTECH ALWAYS IN VIEW

“Always in View™” Baby Monitor for Cars is a wireless video monitoring system that allows you to see your baby while driving! The high-def camera inside the cute and cuddly plush {like this adorable monkey} broadcasts images of the baby to a color monitor conveniently that you place on the dashboard of your car. The camera comes with infrared lighting which allows you to able to view your baby day or night.

The “Always in View™” Baby Monitor for Cars helps reduce distracted driving, unnecesary head turning, and awkward arm reaching movements keeping you and baby safe. Retails for $199.99.

ADVANCE SE 65 AIR + CAR SEAT

ROCK-A-BUMS

The Advance 65 Air+ Convertible Car Seat features Air Protect + to keep children from 5-65 pounds safer in the car. Air Protect + combines the advanced protection of the Air Protect® cushion system with patented GCell HX™ foam designed with hexagonal shapes for superior protection around the torso. TOGETHER they provide full body side impact protection. Retails for $189.99.

This is the only “do everything” 5-in01 diaper. No need to figure out what type of cloth diaper is right for you!

The Rock-A-Bums 5-in-1 is an All-in-1, Pocket, All-in-2, and Hybrid. Best of all, the “Bomb Shell” diaper cover protects against poopy blowouts. This line of diapers comes in fashionable choices that serve the coolest of moms and dads. Put your little rockstar in the most functional and the most fashionable choice out there for cloth diapering. Retails for $14.95.

© 2014 Real Mom Media

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ALL MOMS HAVE PROBLEMS!

SHARE YOUR #REALMOMPROBLEMS

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YUMMY IN MY TUMMY

BY STEPHANIE GLOVER

Your baby goes through so many stages throughout their first year of life. From a sleepy newborn to an adventurous toddler, you will be amazed at all the new things they learn and do and just how fast they grow.

One of the areas where you so the most growth is through feeding. Your baby starts of breastfeeding or bottlefeeding and slowly transitions to purees to solids. This means you need to make sure you have the right equipment to handle these stages.

Newborn Double Electric Breast Pump: The Closer to Nature Double Electric Breast Pump is specially designed to mimic a baby’s natural feeding action, for excellent results at the touch of a button. The unique silicone cup makes our Electric Breast Pump supercomfortable to use. There are 4 settings to choose from: light, low, medium and high.

Starting with the light mode to encourage milk let down, and then moving onto the setting that feels right for you. Retails for $199.99.

Feeding Bottles: Enjoy simply Intuitive™ Feeding with Closer to Nature feeding bottles.

With Closer to Nature Feeding Bottles, switching between breast and bottle feeding becomes easier than ever before. They’re designed with a unique, easy-latch-on nipple shape with breastfeeding experts to mimic the natural flex, stretch and movement of mom’s breast. Together with the bottle’s super-sensitive Easi-Vent valve, this encourages your baby’s intuitive feeding action for comfortable, relaxed feeding. Retails for $9.99 a bottle.

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The Scoop on Must-Haves for You and Your Baby

Stage 1 Transitioning First Sips: The First Sips Cup has a soft spout that needs only the gentlest sucking action, making it really easy to drink from and giving it all the benefits of a free-flow cup, while the unique non spill valve ensures success without mess. Retails for $6.99.

Truly Spill Proof Training Cup: The Explora Truly Spill Proof Trainer Cup helps your baby move on from the first stage of learning cup drinking. The Truly Spill Proof Trainer Cup has a soft spout that’s easy-peasy to drink from, while the easy-grip handles help little ones of around 7 months and over grab and sip with confidence. Retails for $8.49.

Toddler Eating Easi-Mat: The Easi-Mat works with all of Tommee Tippee’s plates and bowls, holding them firmly in place using a suction device in the middle of the mat that prevents your little one from moving, throwing or even tipping them up, making mealtimes a lot less messy. Retails for $9.99.

Section Plates: Section Plates are perfect for family mealtimes: the 3 sections mean you can introduce your toddler to new tastes without them all merging into one. And because they fit with the Easi-Mat, there’s less mess too. Retails for $5.99.

Truly Spill Proof Straw Cup: The Explora Truly Spill Proof Straw Cup is designed to help toddlers learn to drink from a straw - and it’s non spill! The Truly Spill Proof Straw Cup features a super-soft silicone straw that’s gentle on little mouths, while its flip-top lid keeps things reassuringly clean. It’s also insulated to keep drinks cooler and fresher for longer. Retails for $9.99 for a pack of 2.

© 2014 Real Mom Media

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THE LOW DOWN ON HIGH CHAIRS

THE NOOK The Joovy Nook is amazing. First of all, it looks fantastic! It has clean lines and is unobtrusive in the kitchen. It wipes down easily and you can take the entire seat cover off and put it in the washer! The Nook folds completely flat with one hand. The swing open tray is a feature parents love.

The tray has a removable insert that can be easily popped off and rinsed after a messy meal (it’s dishwasher safe too). In the daily grind of parenthood, it’s the little things that help so much. It is so nice when a product performs and helps to simplify your life. Retails for $149.99.

BLOSSOM 4-IN-ONE

This 4-in-1 modular seating system is designed to adjust to your growing child’s seating needs and to accommodate more than one child in your growing family. It transforms seamlessly from an extremely functional highchair to an infant feeding booster, a toddler booster, and finally a youth chair. Should your family suddenly grow, it can even accommodate a baby and a toddler at the table all at once. The 6-position height adjustment assures a front row seat for baby at any family table. And the 3-position removable footrest and 3-position one-hand reclining seat will ensure your growing child stays comfortable at mealtime. Retails for $189.99.

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THE HILO

The HiLo highchair is simply the best high chair on the market today. Its sleek contemporary design and durable construction will allow it to last decades beyond its intended 6 year use period. This heirloom quality piece will likely be there, ready to serve your great grandkids when they are ready. The very best feature of the HiLo is that it’s not cloth! One swipe and it’s clean. It’s a LIFESAVER! Retails for $349.99.

The Scoop on Must-Haves for You and Your Baby

SOLID FEEDING ESSENTIALS

OOGAA SILICONE MEALTIME SET The Award Winning silicone mealtime set is made from European approved food safe, high-grade silicone (higher than FDA standards). Will not leach chemicals, non-toxic, PVC and phthalate FREE! Consisting of a colorful 9oz bowl and 2 spoons. No more chips, breaks or loud noises when these bowls go whoops-a-daisy. BPA free, no harsh chemicals and easy to clean. Dishwasher safe, microwave safe, freezer safe, and bowl are oven safe! Retails for $16.99.

PETAL POUCH STORAGE

SILICONE TEETHING FEEDER

Baby food pouches are probably the best invention since The silicone teething feeder has some bite to it; allowbabies themselves. But in the pantry they create a giant ing for easy feeding with its interior firm stem that forces formless mass that’s rivaled only by your husband on foot- food out where babies can get to it. It’s simple to clean ball Sunday. Petal solves this problem by holding up to and more durable than mesh feeders. Boon totally has a 15 pouches in a terribly stylish flower-like design. It even handle on baby’s snack time! Retails for $7.49. spins around for super convenient access and either sits on the countertop or mounts under a cabinet. Talk about helpful. Retails for $17.99.

© 2014 Real Mom Media

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GEARING UP FOR BABY 5 CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT BABY GEAR CHOICES JOOVY QOOL | COMPACT & STYLISH $549.99

BY SHANNON SZEMENYEI Whether you are a first time mom, or have been down this road before, the list of must have gear for your baby is a pretty basic one. There are definitely some things that are on my nice to have list and things that I could not live without, but there are five basic categories to consider when selecting your must have baby gear items.

Travel Carseats and strollers come in many shapes and sizes. To get the perfect fit, make sure you test them out in store. While some infant seats may go up to 35lbs., think about your lifestyle and your strength! Carrying a newborn in their seat is hard work, so look for a handle that is ergonomically designed and comfortable to hold. The same goes for strollers; consider your lifestyle and what environments you will use your stroller in. For winter and snow, you will want something with larger wheels, whereas for fair weather climates a lightweight stroller with small wheels is completely suitable.

Sleep Somewhere safe for your baby to sleep is absolutely essential, be it bassinet, cradle, crib or co-sleeper. Safe, secure, and cozy for your newborn will help lead to a restful night for everyone, especially in the first few weeks. Remember, newborns have been confined to a pretty tight and warm environment during pregnancy, so consider a smaller bassinet or sleeper to help the transition to the outside world. You will know the right fit for you and your family when you see it!

Play

JOOVY MOON ROOM $219.99 22 |

Engaging your little one through play and helping their brains grow is not only fun, but a great bonding experience. Playmats when they are infants are an excellent place to start. Look for ones with mirrors, hanging toys and a soft pillow for tummy time. As your baby grows and they need more stimulation, look for an upright play yard with multiple play stations and attachments. Bonus points if it allows baby to jump and swivel!

The Scoop on Must-Haves for You and Your Baby

At the end of the day, when you are choosing your baby gear items, take a look at your home and your lifestyle. What space do you have? How do you live your daily life? There are loads of options on the market for everyone, and only you know your family best. What works for one, will not be the best solution for all, which is why it is always a great idea to get into the baby store and try out different options.

Bath In the first few weeks, you likely will be bathing your babe in the sink. A soft surface that is easy to clean, is neatly stored on a hook on the back of the bathroom door, and props baby up naturally is a great option for your bath routine. Placing a newborn in a larger baby bath tub or on a bath sling is great for when they are a little older, but can feel overwhelming for a parent tending to this tiny, slippery baby. Practice with your bath tub to feel secure with it! Set it up in advance, and have all of your bath essentials {wash cloths, lotions, etc} readily available to make bath time a breeze.

Feeding BOON NAKED | COLLAPSIBLE BABY BATHTUB $69.99 There are many fancy gadget on the market when it comes to the category of feeding. If you are bottle feeding, really all you need are your preferred bottles and a great drying rack. Warmers and sterilizers are nice, but they definitely are not necessary in the early days with your newborn. As your baby grows, a high chair that fits with your life style is a must. Look for one with adjustable straps to ensure a safe and secure fit, and one that fits your situation! You may not have space for a stand-alone high chair, and a portable one may suit your lifestyle better!

Shannon Moyer-Szemenyei is the Owner and Creator of Sweet Stella’s, a blog about inspired and purposeful living.When not writing or making a mess in her art studio, Shannon can be found playing Skylanders and Ninja Turtles with her 4 year old, Owen.

Š 2014 Real Mom Media

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BABY GEAR TAKE ALONG BOUNCER The perfect, incredibly easy to fold and carry, infant seat for home, travel and outdoors. Comfy seat, with stylish design, features fun bouncing movement. Light and easy, weighs less than 4 pounds and comes with bonus carry bag. Retails for $39.99.

TUMMY TIME UNDER THE SEA PLAYMAT Adorable aquatic-themed tummy time play mat and pillow. Fun crab character pillow supports baby on tummy and encourages head lifting. Engaging aquatic themed features encourage bonding through play. Stand along mirror stimulates baby and draws their attention. Colorful funfilled design will appeal to both baby and parent.

Retails for $29.99.

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JOOVY ROOM PLAYARD The Joovy Room has elevated the playard to a new level. This premier, full-feature nursery center is a bassinet, changing station and playard, all in one. The Joovy room has exceptional good looks while offering supreme functionality. The full-size bassinet on the room holds an infant up to 15 pounds. A notable feature is the room’s changing table, it has a vinyl top (not fabric) so it’s super easy to wipe down. The removable changing table supports a baby up to 25 pounds. It also includes four storage pockets to hold your essentials.

Retails for $269.99.

The Scoop on Must-Haves for You and Your Baby

JOOVY ROO CAR SEAT STROLLER The Roo’s side mount allows for easy and close access when you are seated at a table as you can ‘parallel park’ the Roo close without the handle getting in your way.

This is helpful when you stop to feed the baby, are at a restaurant or simply interacting while seated.The frame is wider by design to provide maximum stability for your babies. The smaller wheel base allows for super maneuverability and easy handling. It folds up compactly with a one-handed fold for convenience. It has an awesome parent tray that is also a bit different for a reason, it’s best if drinks ride below with your child to avoid the risk of spills. The organizer is still in reach while walking and even easier to use when sitting with your child. Retails for $99.99.

GYMINI® DEVELOPLACE™ DISCOVER THE WORLD MAT Beautiful and colorful grassy nature theme with smiling animal figures creates a fun and engaging design. Toys adjust to baby’s development and include no less than 11 activities! 5 modes of use from newborn to toddler in 1 product: cozy environment for newborns, activity gym, tummy time mat, crawling tunnel and an activity wall for toddlers. Retails for $79.99.

The Tiny Love Discover the World Mat is a soft and colorful mat that’s big enough to take along for play dates.

Ideal for both indoor and outdoor use, the discover the world mat includes engaging textures and accessories for hours of fun and exploration for your baby. The mat is machine washable and fold to become a portable package, complete with handles. Retails for $49.99.

© 2014 Real Mom Media

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SPARK A GREEN REVOLUTION WITH SPARKBOX TOYS

BY JOEY FORTMAN

Of course, being a mom requires a lot of play. I’m totally down for it as toy testing is my favorite things to do. So of course I said ‘sure’! When I got the box and actually had time to sit down and check it out I was floored by the entire concept. As a mom with a gazillion toys around the house I’ve become more particular in what I buy for them. (And if you think I’m KIDDING when I say gazillionI’m not!) So, the concept behind Sparkbox Toys has totally gotten my interested!

Sparkbox is an educational toy subscription service with two goals. One is to help make your child smarter and the other is to help make parents lives easier! For a monthly fee, you receive a box of toys shipped to your home and when you’re done, you simply return them with free shipping!

So there is two great points in this that I’d like to point out as a mom. Many times our kids get something and they NEVER play with it. And often that becomes a total waste of money, right? Well here is a chance to be your own personal ‘toy tester’. With Sparkbox, you can return specific toys your kids aren’t interested in.

Play, Learn, & Return Their universal hashtag really says it all. #PlayLearnReturn really does mean – Play, Learn & Return!

Think of it like a rental service for toys. I see these facebook groups popping up with all these virtual yardsales and moms trying to schlep their kids products to make a few bucks. For any mom that doesn’t have the time to do that (AHEM. ME!! Although I wish I did!) Sparkbox Toys is a great way to keep up with the clutter too.

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The Scoop on Must-Haves for You and Your Baby

How It Works You can sign up for 3 different services from 8 weeks to 4 weeks. They pick the toys based on the ages & developmental needs of your kids and ship you those and you can keep them as long as you want. And as someone who is the worst at returning items (you don’t even want to know lol) it’s so great to know that they send a return shipping slip so you don’t have to stress over it. Fabulous right?

As someone who works with a lot of toys and toy companies, it thrills me to see the whole green angle that Sparkbox Toys brings to the table. It also thrills me to get toys that I actually have never heard of before! This box that we got had 3 things that I’d never seen and Husdon (my one year old) just loves them! One thing to keep in mind because I know you’re totally thinking it. Ew. Used toys?

Yeah, but know that they go through a crazy sterilization process when they are returned to their offices. The toys actually came shrinkwrapped when we got them. AND we didn’t have to fuss with annoying packaging!

I can’t say enough nice things about this form of play. We all know our kids grow out of everything so fast when they are little – and to have an option that can help us keep the clutter away & toys at play all while helping the environment?

WIN! Sparkbox Toys is great for kids ages 6 months to 4 years old.

From toy reviews to tv segments….Joey Fortman, founder of Real Mom Media, Philadelphia media personality & Toy Insider Parent Panelist shares the best & the rest of life in the media. © 2014 Real Mom Media

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s

NOT YOUR ORDI

The last few months of my pregnancy were a little foggy. My creativity and energy were sapped, my body ached, and I was horribly cranky.

With my two oldests, their nurseries were set up well before I was anywhere near my due date. However, this time around, we needed to shift 3 of our 4 upstairs rooms to prepare for baby, and I was drowning in paperwork from work – which meant, Baby #3 had no where to come home to until 38 weeks.

I know that babies don’t need a nursery at first. But for me, setting up the nursery has always been a part of the bonding process.

I decided on a simple (and looselyinterpreted!) travel theme for the baby’s room. I wanted to make more use of some antique signs I purchased a while back. I also stumbled across Birch Fabric designed with campers. Super cute, right?

The rocker, pillows, and side table make for a comfortable place for feedings, reading, and rocking the baby. Is my husband’s old Fat Tire sign inappropriate? I liked it because we love Fat Tire and it has an adorable bike on it.

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The Scoop on Must-Haves for You and Your Baby

INARY NURSERY

The crib, adorned with Aden and Anais’ Up, Up, and Away print, features elephants using balloons as transportation. If you know me, you know Aden and Anais products are my one must have baby luxury.

Over the IKEA Expedit cube, which serves as a bookshelf, I have a limited edition print from children’s book author, Zachariah O’Hora’s Pennsylvania One Book Tour, which features a bus being driven by the beloved Bernard, an otter that cannot stop snoring.

A T R A N S P O R TAT I O N N U R S E R Y

BY HEATHER SCHUGAR

The changing table dresser is adorned with an IKEA lamp trimmed with ribbon, A bunting which pulls together a few of the fabrics used in the room, and some yarn wrapped letters spelling out baby’s nickname.

The nursery is bright, simple, and boyish, without being too expected for a transportation theme!

Heather is the crafty momma behind Diapers Knights & Daze. Follow along her DIY adventures as she crafts her way through parenting a house full of boys.

© 2014 Real Mom Media

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Want to be a part of our next guide? Email Joey at joey@realmommedia.com or Steph at steph@realmommedia.com for more details!