The Award Winning Babysense V Infant Movement Monitor detects your little one’s movements even the barely perceptible changes an infant’s body makes during sleep. Its uniquely sensitive sensor pads, tucked under the baby’s mattress, constantly register even the baby’s slightest motion. A high-speed microprocessor control unit captures the motion patterns. With baby’s every move, it flashes a green light, seen clearly from a distance. That reassuring green blink is your sign* that your baby is moving, just as an infant should be. If there’s no movement for 20 seconds, or if Babysense V detects less than 10 micro-movements per minute, it immediately sounds an alarm and activates a flashing red light. That’s your cue to check on the sleeping baby right away.

The Babysense V Infant Monitor proved to be an invaluable and lifesaving device for Anna and Ben, proud new parents of a beautiful baby girl, Marley who was 2 months old. The Berriz Family were spending a typical evening at their home when they heard the Babysense V Monitor sound an alarm from her nursery. Anna rushed into Marley’s nursery to find a blue tinged baby, not breathing. She immediately performed infant CPR on Marley, saving her life.

“We spent the next two nights in the hospital, while our 2-month-old, Marley, was under observation,” recalls Berriz. “The cause of her sudden cessation of breathing remains a mystery but if it wasn’t for the alarm, Marley would not be here today. We are forever thankful to Babysense for saving her life.”

The first home version of this device was introduced in 1993 in Europe and Australia who have been using this technology for over a decade. This product is designed with a simple, battery-operated system that doesn’t connect to an electrical outlet. There are no wires connected to the baby. In fact, Babysense V has no direct contact with the baby: its sensor pads are connected to a small control unit. When the battery needs replacement – approximately every 6 months – you’ll see a low-battery indicator light.

*Daily testing is required to ensure that it is functioning properly.

View the Babysense V Demo video here

What is included in the box:

Control units, 2 sensor pads, connecting cable, hanging bracket, parents user manual, requires 4AA batteries (NOT included). The box contains 2 sensor pads: the first is used from birth to 3 months and the second is added from 3 months onward. The sensor pads are made from ABS plastic free which is a hard, durable plastic. The Babysense V Infant Movement Monitor is very user friendly and super simple to set up. icons on display are very easy to read. Green light flashes to indicate movement Red alert alarm light. Low battery indicator light easy one-button activation activation button safety cover (can’t be turned off by mistake). The control unit can be attached to the bottom of the bed or anywhere out of baby’s reach via the hanging bracket. The Babysense V Infant Monitor is unique because it doesn’t connect to any electrical outlet and operated via 4 x AA 1.5V batteries. The device is immune to inference from portable phones (cell phone, portable). It is compact and portable for easy travel.

Warning: Naturally Babysense V can’t replace a parent or caretaker, it can only alert you to a problem. The purpose of the device is to alert you when stopping or slowing of movement occurs.

*For additional details, check out the FAQ.

*To purchase please click here.

To learn more, please visit babysafeus.com

Straight from the parent panel:

“The Babysense V Infant Movement monitor is very parent friendly and I had no problem setting it up within seconds. The product manual is well written and easy to follow. The trouble shooting chart is fantastic to have on hand and parents will be able to see at a glance how to proceed should any problems crop up. I really like that the sensor pads lie beneath the mattress and are out of sight. Nothing touches my baby. This product reduces my level of anxiety as a first time parent dramatically, allowing me to sleep peacefully.”

MORE WAYS TO KEEP YOUR BABY SAFE

*Put your baby on his back to sleep – every time.

*Make sure that the temperature in his nursery or your room is between 68 and 72 degrees.

*Dress your infant in an infant sleeping bag instead of using blankets. Adjust his clothing according to the temperature.

*Never buy a second hand crib. Take time to research buying a safe crib which needs to meet certain criteria in order to be considered safe. Check out this helpful guide.

*Do NOT buy a crib bumper, which have been show to be dangerous. Remove soft toys and anything else in the crib when putting baby down to sleep. Baby does not need a pillow or baby positioner.

*Choose a non-toxic, firm mattress. Mattresses are loaded with toxic chemicals. We love the Naturepedic line of mattresses which are the safest and highest quality ones on the market.

*Do NOT smoke when you are pregnant and keep baby away from second hand smoke once he is born.

*During your pregnancy, take an infant CPR class and enroll your partner, and anyone else who will be taking care of the baby. Take a refresher class intermittently, to maintain your skills.

Posted by Mandy, Parent Panel Member:

Hello everyone! This is my final post on my 12 week journey on Weight Watchers Online. Weeks 10 through 12 went by so fast and I am very excited to report the following stats:

INITIAL STATS (12 weeks ago):

Height: 5″3
Age: 31
Build: Medium, muscular
Bra Size: 40D
Waist: 33 inches
Hips: 40 inches
Starting Weight: 151 pounds (68.6 kg)
BMI: 27
10% Goal: 135.9 pounds (61.7kg)
Goal Weight: 120 pounds (54.5kg)
BMI Goal: 20-24

Plan: Flex Plan
Weigh-in Day: Monday

CURRENT STATS:

Bra Size: 38C
Waist: 29 inches
Hips: 37 inches
Current Weight: 129 pounds (58.6 kg)
BMI: 23
Goal Weight: 120 pounds (54.5kg)

I am thrilled to report that I have lost 22 lbs (10kgs) in the 12 week period and presently weigh 129lbs. I am 9 lbs away from reaching my goal weight of 120lbs. My BMI is now 23, which puts me in the healthy range. I continue to walk daily at a brisk pace for 45-60 minutes and look forward to my walks! I have plenty of energy to fulfill my role as a wife and mom which brings me great joy. My doctor is very pleased with my results and explained that I have reduced my chances of developing many chronic illnesses through this lifestyle change. My goals for losing weight included to be healthy, have more energy, to feel confident and sexy and I feel that I have successfully achieved each one.

I know that as we approach the New Year, many of you are thinking about your New Years Resolutions and if they include working towards a healthier lifestyle and losing weight, I would highly recommend that you consider Weight Watchers Online.

I look forward to losing the remaining 9 lbs and reaching my goal weight and then maintaining this weight for life. Weight Watchers is not a fad diet, but a lifestyle which I have embodied and know that it will change your life the way that it has changed mine.

I would like to thank Weight Watchers for providing me with a 3 months Weight Watchers Online subscription and to my family, friends and the Success Through Play Readers who have supported me along the way.

Wishing you all Happy Holidays and a healthy and prosperous 2009.

Sincerely,
Mandy

As many of you know, Bumkins waterproof bibs are PVC, phthalate, BPA and lead free and as such provide the safest and most stylish option for protecting dress attire this holiday season! Bumkins also have new print options for fall that add an extra fashionable twist to our bibs. We love the Floral Print. As always Bumkins bibs are made in the United States, so any bib purchase helps support our economy, something to truly be thankful for given our current economic climate. Bumkins is currently running a special on their full coverage bibs for Thanksgiving! All orders with Junior Bibs, Sleeved Bibs, Supersized SuperBibs, Aprons and Art Smocks receive free ground shipping just in time for the holidays. Customers just need to enter the coupon code Turkey08 at checkout at www.bumkins.com to receive their savings (expires 11/31/08).

Bumkins is also running a Best Bum Contest so get your cameras out and capture images of your little one in his favorite Bumkins Cloth diaper or cover. Details can be found here. Happy Snapping!

Most business cases on the market are poorly designed, lacking cushioning and wheels. A typical business case which lacks wheels, combined with the weight of the notebook computer, can put extreme pressure and stress on the shoulders which is the last thing that a business traveler needs on top of a long flight. High Sierra Sport Company offers a solution with its Variable Wheeled Business Case which is well designed, solidly constructed, and perfect for the frequent business traveler. This bag can accommodate a notebook computer with a screen size up to 17 inches. The notebook computer fits in a well padded computer sleeve which will protect your costly computer from shifts during flight in the overhead compartment or from kicking feet while under the seat in front of you. It has two large compartments with plenty of room for your notebook computer, files and overnight clothing. The recessed telescoping handle is adjustable to a variety of heights for your comfort and hides away in a zippered compartment. This business case has inline skate-style wheels with corner protectors which glide smoothly and easily over a variety of surfaces. The zippered lower front pocket stores computer cables, an umbrella or accessories is easy to access saving you time and frustration locating these important items. We particularly like the organizer compartment in the front of the bag, which has dedicated PDA and Cell Phone pockets, which cushion and store your devices for easy retrieval. To the right is a key fob, which keeps your keys safe while going through security at the airport, and business card pocket helps you stay organized. Stay hydrated with your water bottle in the side pocket designed to hold up to a 500 ml bottle or beverage. Streamline your luggage with the flexible ad-a-bag system on the back panel which allows the bag to slip over the handle of a wheeled upright.

Retailing for $155.00, the Variable can be purchased here.

Amy, the founder of NadaMoo! ice-cream, created NadaMoo! ice-cream for her sister Katy, who needed to eliminate foods like wheat, dairy, sugar etc, to help get her year round allergies under control. Amy was an aspiring Pastry Chef and Baker at the time, which equipped her with the skills to develop the PERFECT tasting allergy free ice-cream made from coconut milk, organic agave nectar, organic brown rice, organic chicory root and other ingredients that Katy could enjoy. As Katy’s allergies disappears, word soon spread about the delicious ice-cream and the rest as they say is history. Using certified organic, kosher and gluten-free ingredients whenever possible, NadaMoo! strives to create an ice-cream for everyone, without the guilt. One glance at the comparison chart and you will see how favorably NadaMoo! ranks in terms of calories, fat etc compared to other ice-creams. Now even those who are need to follow a calorie reduced eating plan will be able to indulge! Ice-cream lovers won’t have to sacrifice ANYTHING when it comes to enjoying this ice-cream. Despite the reduced calorie and fat content, NadaMoo! ice-cream remains decadent and creamy. Amy’s skills as a pastry chef and baker are clearly evident in the texture and taste of this outstanding ice-cream.

NadaMoo! Ice-cream is free of dairy, soy, or refined sugar and is made from Coconut Milk and Agave Syrup. The coconut milk is imported directly from a family-owned organic farm in Thailand. Coconut milk is rich with lauric acid and has trace amounts of caprylic acid, both of which have antiviral and antifungal properties. Coconut milk is rich in MCTs (medium chain triglycerides), which boosts the metabolism and satisfies hunger. Agave syrup is a low glycemic sweetener which is sourced from the agave plant in Mexico. NadaMoo! ice-cream comprises of organic ingredients and is certified USDA Organic.

NadaMoo! is currently available in 5 Delicious Flavors. We received a box containing all 5 flavors to taste test! The hands down favorite of the panel were the Vanilla and Mint. Our panel were really surprised to hear that the first ingredient was coconut as they could not detect any coconut in these 2 flavors.

Vanilla ahhh! Perfectly balanced, deriving its heavenly flavor from pure vanilla extract and vanilla beans. The most versatile of all the flavors, it pairs beautifully with an elegant dessert, or eat it on its own. Will appeal to all ages and will soon become the favorite flavor to reach for in your house.

The Lotta Mint Chip has a smooth mint flavor and is studded with rich dark chocolate chips. This heavenly melt-in-your-mouth flavor will appeal to both children and adults! Enjoy on its own or serve with a brownie/chocolate dessert for an elegant dessert. Amy has expertly created a heavenly flavor using coconut milk, agave nectar, organic mint extract, grain sweetened chocolate chips, unsweetened chocolate, cocoa butter and other ingredients.

Decadent and rich, the Gotta Do Chocolate will satisfy your chocolate cravings. Great flavor for kids as well!

Pecan lovers will rejoice with the mmm Maple Pecan flavor. This sophisticated flavor is creamy and rich and has natural maple flavor and real pecans, the perfect combo for fall.

The Creamy Coconut flavor will conjure up memories of an exotic island vacation. Coconut fans will jump for joy with this refreshing treat.

NadaMoo! ice-cream is available at select natural food stores in Arkansas, California, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, Utah and Wyoming. Available soon in Oregon and Washington state.

For more information, please visit: www.NadaMoo.com

3 TIPS FOR STORING ICE-CREAM

* Make sure that the temperature of your freezer is set between -5 degrees F & 0 degrees F
*Store ice-cream in the middle of the freezer and not by the door
*After you have opened the ice-cream, seal the ice-cream with a layer of foil before placing the lid on, to ensure the freshest tasting ice-cream.

*Reader Giveaway*

5 lucky readers will win a coupon for a free pint of NadaMoo! ice-cream, courtesy of NadaMoo! TO enter, please send an email to: info[AT]SuccessThroughPlay[DOT]com. Please include your full name and email address. Since NadaMoo! is not yet available nationwide, we can only accept entries from the following states:
Arkansas, California, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas (Austin), Utah and Wyoming. Coupons expire at the end of the year. Please enter by midnight PST, on November 6, 2008

Boob Design® is the new designer line of Maternity and Nursing Apparel from Sweden that will change the way that you think of maternity and nursing clothing forever. Gone are the bulky, uncomfortable and frumpish maternity and nursing outfits that hide the bump (maternity) and are difficult to access and scream to the world that you are nursing. Boob® boasts a gorgeous line of designer apparel that just happen to be maternity and nursing wear!

Their commitment to the environment:

“We keep all of our production in Europe, in factories where we know that the employees are treated well and are decently paid. Keeping production in Europe is also a way of guaranteeing that the product in Europe is as environmentally sound as possible. All our jersey is certified with the OEKO-TEX Standard 100. This certification is a guarantee for clothes that are completely free of toxins that can be harmful to you. Clothes that are kind to your skin as well as nature. Our goal is to you materials that are environmentally optimal. As a step towards that, by the Spiring of 2009, 50% of the entire Boob collection will be in organic cotton. This is cotton grown without the use of chemical pesticides or fertilizers, which is better for the health of the cotton-farmer as well as nature.”

Today we will be highlighting Boob Design’s® Maternity line which is cut to accent and flatter your new curvy figure. The gorgeous eco-fabrics, the fresh simplicity and the playful details make the trademark of Boob® . The soft and comfortable fabrics will fit like a dream – all the way from bump to big belly!

The Fall/Winter 2008 Maternity Collection is simply stunning. With inspiration from the 50’s, the design team has create gorgeous pieces in winter hues. Here are our top picks:

Transformer T (above): This lightweight top is a unique design that allows the wearer to place the removable band (with buckle) either below the bust or below the bump to create 2 different looks. Pair with jeans or legging for a sexy look. This top will work equally well both pre and post pregnancy and makes for the perfect transition top!

Parka Dress (above): Super comfortable yet chic! Warm enough to take you through the colder months and the dress that you will reach for when you want to look pulled together but don’t have tons of time to do so.

Biba Dress (above): The perfect dress for the holiday season! The flattering design features a drop waist to accentuate your growing bump and long sleeves and a buttoned neck collar to bring attention to your glowing face. The fabric of the dress allows for freedom of movement so you can rest assured that you will be able to focus on the party.

Jacket and Skirt (above): Our top pick from the collection! This well cut jacket accommodates your growing bump allowing you to feel comfortable and at ease without the restriction of most maternity jackets. Pair with matching pencil skirt, pants or jeans to dress up any outfit. The pencil skirt was a favorite amongst the panel, particularly the shorter pregnant mamas to be (5″4 and below) who had difficulty finding the perfect pencil skirt, even pre-pregnancy. This pencil skirt is cut perfectly to flatter the thigh and hip area and is very comfortable to wear all day. Both the jacket and skirt can easily be worn pre and post pregnancy, adding value to this purchase.

The B Low Organic Cotton Jeans (above) are a super find. Organic cotton jeans in general are very difficult to find, let along maternity jeans! The B Low Organic Cotton jeans truly resemble your pre-pregnancy jeans and you will feel sexy and confident wearing them. Straight leg and low cut at front and high rise at the back for a super comfy fit. Zip and button at front. Waistband with loops. Adjustable elastic inside waistband to accommodate your growing bump. Available in different washes. Choose the light wash for day and the dark wash which can go from day to night. Pair will flats or heels, a killer top and accessories for a fantastic night on the town. Be prepared for MANY compliments!

*Giveaway*

Prize A, B, C and D below are up for grabs, courtesy of Boob Design® . All garments are a size medium.

Prize A
Parka Dress (Black) Size Medium Valued at $140
Transformer T, Steel (Gray, 2nd picture) Size Medium Valued at $70

Prize B
Biba Dress, Cassis (Maroon) Size Medium Valued at $145

Prize C:
Jacket and Skirt (Black) Size Medium Valued at $200 (together)

Prize D:
B Low Organic Cotton Jeans. US Size 10 (EU 40). Valued at $190

Congratulations to Amy G., Claire T., Jennifer C. & Yael K.

Spring/Summer 2009

Boob Design® doesn’t disappoint with the Spring/Summer 2009 line. Expect to see bold bright colors and clean lines which reflect the mood of Spring and Summer. Multi-stripes, paisley, and print checks are making a come back as well as solid colors. The collection is fun and care-free to take you through the warmer months in style and comfort.

Boob Design:

“For Spring/Summer 2009 you will find a collection full of innovative solutions for function. Boob-unique prints and a range of beautiful and vivid colors. This is a collection made with a great deal of care – all the way from the farmers in the cotton fields to the women who are wearing them.”

For more information and to find a store in your area, please click here.

Many first time parents wonder if they really need a bassinet and why they can’t simply put their newborn directly in a crib. Bassinets, which are sized smaller than a crib, can help make the transition from womb to world a smoother one. Infants who are placed directly into a crib will often huddle in the corner of the crib, as they are seeking to find the perimeter for comfort. Infants are used to pretty tight quarters in the womb and being placed directly into a large crib can be a difficult adjustment for them. The added advantage of a bassinet is that parents can place it next to their bed and easily check on their baby and tend to their baby without having to walk very far. Lifting baby out of a bassinet and placing him back down is far easier than reaching into a crib and sleep deprived parents are often very thankful for this. Moms who are recovering from childbirth will appreciate having baby close by and within easy reach. The bassinets on the market today are single use, meaning that they top out after 3 months. Many parents rightfully don’t want to invest in an item that will only last 3 months. Baby Planet, understanding this, has designed the Eden Convertible Bassinet, the new innovative Dual-Use Bassinet which converts to a child seat for extended use, making it a great value. The design of the bassinet is modern and fresh and the aqua oval fabric will appeal to all parents.

The Eden Convertible Bassinet is designed for full term infants and can be used from birth to 15 pounds (approx 3 months). Baby Planet has included a detailed manual to assist you in assembling the bassinet and then later the chair. Assembling the bassinet does require some perseverance due to the snug fit, but enlisting the help of a partner and arming yourself with some WD40 will help to speed things along. While many bassinets are on the market are unstable and tip very easily, the Eden Bassinet is very stable, which will make parents feel very secure placing their precious newborns in it. A round unit which attaches directly to the bassinet allows you to play soothing music or select the vibration mode to help calm and soothe baby. Parents have the option to select both the music and the vibration when needed. A storage basket below allows you to store baby essentials, helping to prevent unnecessary clutter. The easy release latch allows you to remove the “bed” from its base, allowing you to move move it around the house. Be sure to keep the “bed” on the ground at all times, when not in the base for safety. The bed is surprisingly stable on the ground. The bassinet sheet and liner are machine washable (delicate cycle), perfect for those diaper blowouts!

Converting the Bassinet to the chair is quick and simple, as long as you have lubricated the legs! The chair is very stylish and will look terrific in any room in your house, with its sleek modern design with wooden accents. It features a 3 point harness and the same beautiful aqua oval fabric, making it perfect for a girl or boy! The seat back adjusts simply with the aid of a strap system from approximately 125 degrees to 150 degrees (see pictures to the right). Try as we might, we had a difficult time trying to tip the chair over, thanks to the design team at Baby Planet who are leaders in their field when it comes to designing items to be stable. We would recommend waiting until your baby is able to sit independently, before placing him in the chair and he can enjoy sitting in the chair until he reaches the age of 2. In these tough economic times, a dual use product such as this one will be much appreciated and instead of simply discarding the bassinet at 3 months, parents will now be able to convert the bassinet into a child seat which your toddler can enjoy.

Baby Planet encourages parents to donate their bassinet to a local charity after they no longer need it. Once it has outlived its life and can no longer be used, Baby Planet will recycle it for you. Please click here to learn more about their recycling program.

*The Eden Convertible Bassinet is sold exclusively at Babies R Us stores (no longer online)

*To see the full product range from Baby Planet, please visit: www.Baby-Planet.com

2009
One glance at the Baby Planet booth at the recent ABC Kids Trade Show in Las Vegas and it be became evident that Baby Planet is NOT just a stroller company anymore! Baby Planet has a selection of innovative and dual use products lined up for 2009, which will establish them as a full product Baby Company.

Mandy, Panel Member:

Over the past 2 weeks, I took the opportunity to further explore the Weight Watchers website. The website serves as a terrific resource for Weight Watchers members, particularly those of us who are doing Weight Watchers Online. I really enjoy reading the Q & A Column, which is moderated by a registered dietitian and food editor. I read several interesting articles with titles such as “Defeating the Midnight Munchies” which empowers you to move forward and offers helpful hints and strategies. At the end of the article, I was directed to the related message board for support, which was fantastic. Not to be missed is the section of the website devoted to “Success Stories.” Here members share their Weight Watchers Success Stories which are so inspirational! I stopped by the online Science Center (science of weight management) to learn about new findings so that I can make informed choices. Readers can learn about the Physics of weight loss, the Psychology of weight loss and all about healthy nutrition to equip yourself with essential tools to continue to help you drop the pounds while improving your health in the process through good food choices.

Aside from the articles, I was most impressed with the exercise demos which feature step by step instructions with streaming video for clarification. The exercise demos include Yoga, Pilates and Strength Training so there is something for everyone.

Now onto my Weight Loss! I had a fantastic 2 weeks! I can’t wait to share the great news. Drum roll please……I reached my 10% goal weight!!! My current weight is 135 lbs (lost 2 lbs in the past 2 weeks) which means that I reached my 10% goal (135.9). I am thrilled to say that I am no longer considered overweight and I honestly feel like shouting it from the rooftops. For anyone who is thinking about joining Weight Watchers, I say don’t wait, do it now. You won’t feel deprived, you won’t feel like you are on a diet (because it isn’t) but you will slowly gain your confidence back week by week as I did.

What did I do to celebrate? Why I went shopping of course!!!! I couldn’t get over how great I look in clothes now. I would dread shopping when I was heavy as I didn’t want to face the changing room mirror and the double digit sizes. I will continue to keep up the great work as I make my way toward my goal weight of 120lbs. I am so motivated to continue this journey and urge anyone wanting to drop the excess pounds to join me! I am really looking forward to New Years Eve and I can’t wait to see my transformation continue. My energy levels are through the roof and my self-esteem has been renewed and this translates to me being a better wife and mom. I have a positive outlook on life now and a new and healthy body which is ready to take on the world!

I would like to thank everyone for their support including my family, friends and the Success Through Play Readers. If a busy mom like myself who is short on time can lose weight without depriving herself, YOU CAN. Many of us lead such busy lives that we aren’t able to attend the Weight Watchers Meetings, but with the Online Program, you have the freedom to follow the same plan, but in your own time. Don’t waste another minute!

Maple Landmark, Inc offers beautiful heirloom quality wooden toys which are proudly made in Vermont, USA. They are one of few remaining makers of wooden toys and gifts in America. They offer a full range of toys including a colorful line which features lead-free paint.

Today we will be highlighting our top picks from their Schoolhouse Naturals Collection:

Maple Landmark, Inc:

“With all of the current chemical concerns and growing environmental concerns, we introduce our Schoolhouse Naturals line. At their root, these are simply wood. We use primarily hard maple and no added chemicals other then a little wood glue where needed. Even the detailing is chemical free, it is laser engraved into the wood. A few items, as noted on per our website, are available with an optional finish, either a whey or beeswax/tung oil finish.”

Natural Unfinished Oval Bead Rattle is a truly natural rattle and is made from 100% solid maple wood which is responsibly harvested locally in Vermont. The rattle is 2.5″ long and the oval ends measure 1.5″ X 2.5″. It weighs is at just over 2 ounces, making it lightweight enough for baby to hold. The beads float freely on the pegs for maximum sound and movement providing wonderful auditory and visual stimulation. This heirloom quality rattle is well designed and features a smooth sanded surface for baby’s comfort. Young babies will love grasping the rattle and later shaking and exploring it fully. Older babies will have the opportunity to manipulate the beads which is important for their fine motor development.

The Push N Pull Elephant is an award winning toy that really grows with your child. The elephant is 6″ long and almost 6″ high, weighing in at just under 12 ounces. Made from solid maple with engraved detailing this elephant, this toy is sure to become your baby/child’s beloved friend. Babies who have mastered sitting independently will love pushing the Push N Elephant. The large handle makes it easy to grip! For toddlers who have mastered walking, attach a string to the hole in the Elephant which will allow your toddler to pull it by the string. Pull Along toys are wonderful for encouraging gross motor skills; your toddler will be motivated to walk more. Your toddler will be using many additional skills such as refining his balance skills, using eye hand coordination, motor planning and upper extremity strength and endurance all while having fun! No batteries are required…powered by your toddler!

A set of blocks form the fundamentals of multi-sensory learning. The Natural ABC Blocks blocks are laser etched for added tactile and visual feedback. Solid and robust, they are true heirloom pieces that will be proudly passed down from generation to generation. This very special set is sure to make a memorable 1st birthday gift! The Natural ABC Block Set is truly magnificent and pictures do not do it justice. The set includes 12 solid hard maple 1-3/4″ blocks Blocks. The attention to detail that Maple Landmark pays to their line of wooden toys is showcased in this Block Set. The beautiful designs are laser etched and include both letters, numbers and patterns. A set of educational blocks such as this set is a must have in every home because blocks provide infinite learning opportunities. Blocks encourage fine motor coordination, visual spatial perception, bilateral hand coordination and endless opportunities for creative and imaginative play. This set will continue to grow with your child as she learns the alphabet and begins to spell. This set will be passed down from generation to generation!

The Shape Sorter Bench impressed our panel with its innovative design and stability. Made from solid wood, it measures 4 inches tall, 6 3/4″ long, 4″ wide and weighs in at 1 pound 7 1/4 ounces. The bench is beautifully engraved and labels each of the 4 shapes. It has 4 cut outs: circle, rectangle, triangle, square and includes 12 matching wooden shapes which can be stored below in the included drawstring bag. The wooden shapes also be used independently for building which makes this a great buy!

The Classic School Bus school bus is an exceptionally designed, heirloom quality wooden toy and is our clear top pick from the Schoolhouse Naturals Collection. Measuring 4 3/4″ tall, 9″ long and 4″ wide and weighing in at just over a 3 pounds. The detailed carving is truly exquisite. The roof removes to reveal a bus driver and school children, which are removable for play. The activity of taking the children in and out of the bus is the ideal fine motor activity for children. With the Classic School Bus, there are endless opportunities for play. detail carving exquisite . This is a true heirloom piece that will be passed down from generation to generation and will make the perfect unisex birthday gift or holiday gift.

Toddlers and children will be delighted with the Natural Racer Scoot which boasts impressive carved detailing. It measures 4″ long and 2″ wide and is the perfect size to take along on day trips, ensuring that you child will have something fun to play with.

The Maple Landmark Website is well designed, making it super easy to shop online.
We like the feature where you can shop by age, saving you time! Gift certificates are available and you can even customize your gift for that extra special touch. Shoppers can rest assured because each toy sold is backed by a guarantee.

To learn more about Maple Landmark and view the full product line, please visit:

www.MapleLandmark.net

Kendra and Amy are the the co-founders of Smart Mom, LLC, a company who designs adult jewelry which is safe for baby to teeth on. Their babies love of teething on their jewelry was the inspiration behind the design of their Smart Mom Jewelry line. The Teething Bling line is made from silicone that is phthalate, BPA, PVC and lead free. Best of all it is dishwasher-safe; which will allow you to keep it super clean and germ free.

Smart Mom Jewelry a full line of Teething Bling Jewelry including pendants, bangles, gift sets and keychains which are available in assorted shapes, and colors, including solid colors, patterned or metallics to coordinate and flatter any outfit. The designs are modern and clean and will appeal to moms, grandmas and aunts. The Teething Bling line will make a terrific baby shower gift that is functional and stylish at the same time. Purchases arrived beautifully presented in either a box or a tie organza bag.

Check out the Think Pink line in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month with 20% of the profits from this line sold during October being donated to Breast Cancer Research

Sarah, a mom from our parent panel tested out the Donut Shaped Pendant and matching bangles. Prior to having access to this line, Sarah’s son Matt would routinely mouth and teethe on her jewelry which made her nervous and anxious:

“Matt was strongly attracted to my jewelry and would mouth them at any opportunity! I was definitely concerned from a safety point of view since jewelry is designed to be pretty and not to be handled or mouthed by babies. What if the jewelry broke while he was mouthing it and what kind of materials are my jewelry made of? I eventually decided to avoid wearing jewelry which was difficult for me, because I LOVE to accessorize. I was really excited to hear about Smart Mom’s line of Teething Jewelry. What a brilliant concept! I really love the simple designs which flatter any outfit. Matt couldn’t wait to teethe on the donut shaped pendant and the bangle and I felt secure and at ease knowing that he was biting down on silicone which is used in many teethes. The bangle is chunky and super cute and I can just pull it off my wrist and I have an instant teether which is always readily available, no matter where I am. Thank you Smart Mom. You have made my life less stressful and more beautiful!”

A percentage of all retail sales of Smart Mom products goes to these worthy organizations:

*Cure Search
*Dress for Success

We applaud Smart Mom, LLC for giving back.

Please note that this is ADULT jewelry and not intended for babies, toddlers or children to wear. To learn more about the Teething Bling line, please visit www.SmartMomJewelry.com

*Giveaway*

We are giving away a Donut Shaped Pendant and matching bangle (Mother of Pearl and Sugar Plum) set to 2 lucky readers, courtesy of Smart Mom, LLC. To enter, please send an email to info[AT]SuccessThroughPlay.com with “Smart Mom Jewelry” in the subject line. Please include your full name and email address and indicate which color choice you would like to win. Enter by midnight PST on October 18, 2008. Good Luck.