History:
After working with Gerber since 1985, Michael Silberstein, an entrepreneur, branched off on his own by purchasing a division from Gerber Furniture Group. He has been president of Infantino® since its establishment in 1991, and is focused on the company’s expansion and diversification. Infantino® is an ever growing company which is currently expanding internationally. Now, products can be found in many mass retailers as well as specialty stores.

Founder Michael Silberstein:
I remember a happy childhood where my imagination was free to roam. When the time came to raise my own children, with my incredible wife, it was important for me to recreate the same fond memories that have stuck with me from my youth. The experience I had watching my children grow was phenomenal. Now that I have grandchildren, I get to see the world once more through a child’s eyes—and it’s wonderful! The support of my immediate family and the team at Infantino, whom I consider an extension of my family, has helped me to convert inspiration into an established and trusted brand.

Michael Silberstein, president: “I am honored to support you and your baby through these amazing years with our Infantino® products and I welcome you wholeheartedly as part of our family. And like family, please know that we are always here to listen and respond to your questions, advice, and comments. I genuinely care about your experience with our products and consider myself lucky to have the opportunity to bring them to you.Here’s to the
child in all of us!”

Vice President of Infantino® is Michael’s son, Mark Silberstein. He is responsible for all marketing and product development activities for the thriving Infantino baby products company, which includes administration of newly acquired licensing agreements. A polished communications executive, leader, and negotiator, Mark recently served as Director of Academic Affairs and State Spokesman for the Foreign Ministry, Government of Israel, as one of the three directors in the public relations depart of the Consulate General of Israel in Los Angeles.

Design Team:
Our child development experts design sense-stimulating, mind-expanding and award-winning toys to engage babies’ cognitive and motor skills. But we never lose sight of what should always come first: The sheer fascination and delight a great toy should deliver time and time again. As we see it, when we’re having fun, we’re most open to learning new things and acquiring new skills. We like to think that babies see things this way too. For moms and dads who find joy in baby just being baby.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTIONS:

Big Mouth Basket Toss 6 Months +

* Colorful, textured bean bags are fun to hold
* Big mouth baskets are great for put-and-take play
* Helps develop hand-eye coordination
* Just prop it up and play!

Baby Magician 6 Months +

* 5 in 1 magic set to amaze and amuse baby
* Cuddly rabbit rattles and has a fun sparkly cape
* Jingling teether-tailed fish hides under the soft magic cup
* Crinkling cards have linkable loop and photo holder
* Plush magic hat that crinkles
* Wand delights baby with colorful flowers and a magical sound

Lola the Poodle 0 Months +

* Clip-on link easily attaches to car seat, stroller, diaper bag & more!
* Puppy in hand bag squeaks
* Shake Lola and she jingles
* Rattle in Lola’s right hand
* Plush take-along fun pal for baby on the go
* Bright colors and interesting textures for baby’s developing senses

PURCHASING:

To find your closest INFANTINO® retailer, please click here.

All of these products and more can be found on www.amazon.com. Infantino’s major retailers are Babies ‘R Us, Target, and Wal*Mart, which are also accessible via internet.

AWARDS

Infantino® toys have been the recipient of the following awards:

* Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Awards
* Parenting Toy of the Year Awards
* Creative Child Awards
* BabyZone’s Amazing Toy Awards
* The National Parenting Center Seal of Approval
* Parents’ Choice Foundation Award
* iParenting Media Awards

Success Through Play™ comments:

We would like to extend our thanks to Jill Tuschhoff from Infantino® for sending samples to both our USA and our UK parent panel. We have been extremely pleased with the professionalism of this company and we are happy to feature them as the final company/product review for the month of September 2007.

Big Mouth Basket Toss

This unique toy caught the eye of our engineers who were impressed with the solid construction which includes “sewed on facial features” for safety. This toy is brightly colored and features 3 adorable animals (monkey, hippo and zebra) each with their own “baskets” which make a crinkly noise when touched, along with 3 multi-textured mini-bean bags. The bean bags feature color contrasting designs and patterns, several textures which provide tactile feedback and even boast ribbons. Young babies will love holding the bean bags and exploring them and older babies will enjoy “feeding the animals” by throwing the bean bags in the animal’s mouth. Throwing at a target helps a baby develop eye hand coordination. Praise baby for his/her efforts not if he/she succeeds. This toy will even appeal to your toddler, as was evident with our panel of babies and toddlers. This lightweight toy folds up easily and can be stored/carried in “briefcase” style packaging complete with a soft handle. Our US baby and toddler panel thoroughly enjoyed playing with the Big Mouth Toss and it was a fantastic toy to use in a group setting!

Magic Magician

A stand out feature of this set is the “Magic Wand” which when pressed in the designated spot, makes a wonderful magic sound that will delight everyone! Holding and waving the wand in the air will allow baby to practice upper limb coordination and grasp patterns while having so much fun. Toddlers and children will enjoy playing with the “Magic wand” during imaginary play. The friendly, bright, fun Rabbit is cute as can be and features green “fur” which is delightful to touch and provides tactile stimulation. The rabbit has long ears which baby will love exploring as they make a crinkle sound when touched. The Rabbit carries flowers and ribbons which will delight your little ones. Baby will love to cuddle the rabbit(he features a soft bean bag body). The large blue hat makes a crinkly noise when touched, providing wonderful auditory feedback. Baby and toddler will enjoy putting the rabbit in the hat and pulling him out! There is a small cup that pairs with a friendly fish. The cup and fish are perfect for teaching baby about object permanence. Baby will love holding the fish and chewing on his tail “teether with bumps for added sensory input” and placing him in and out of the cup! The magic cards can be customized by adding a picture of your baby/family members and will delight baby. Once again, this toy received positive comments from both our USA and our UK parent/baby panel. Our UK parents reported that their daughter loves to cuddle and hug the rabbit, play with the magic wand and chew on the flowers and reported that she laughs when they wave the wand and when she hears the “magic sound”. The fishes tail was soothing for her to chew on when she is teething. She is delighted when her mom hides the fish beneath the cup and loves watching mom perfect “magic tricks”. Our USA parent panel’s toddler was immediately attracted to the magic wand and would “dance around the house waving the wand and pressing the button to elicit the magic sound during her imaginary play”. The rabbit etc were used as characters in his puppet show and his parents were impressed with how the Magic Magician inspired their son’s imagination!

Lola the Poodle

Lola has pink “poodle like fur” which baby will love to touch! The unique texture provides baby with some tactile stimulation. When baby shakes Lola, he/she will hear a pleasing bell sound which will encourage her to keep on shaking. Lola carries a small round rattle in her right paw and baby Lola in her left paw. Baby Lola is adorable and is carried in a dog bag. Parents who are teaching their baby ASL signs can use Lola to teach “Mother” and baby Lola to teach “baby”. Lola wears a black and white patterned skirt which makes a wonderful crinkly sound when touched. Baby will receive auditory stimulation and practice grasping skills while touching the skirt. Lola can be attached to a stroller, diaper bag etc so that your baby’s new friend is close by.Both our USA and UK parent panel reported that their baby enjoyed shaking Lola to hear the bell and enjoyed chewing on the small rattle that Lola is carrying. All the babies enjoyed exploring Lola’s crinkly skirt and touching her “fur”.

Success Through Play™ is looking forward to reviewing additional toys from Infantino® during 2008. To see the full product catalog, please visit:

www.infantino.com

Denise & Alan Fields are the consumer watchdogs who’ve made a career out of chronicling life’s milestones. Their first book, BRIDAL BARGAINS is their first best-seller, focused on how to save money when tying the knot. Their parenting books (BABY BARGAINS, TODDLER BARGAINS) focus on how to save money . . . And the answers to the countless questions first-time parents have about their new family addition (BABY 411, TODDLER 411).

To full the full range of books, please click here .

BABY BARGAINS

The ultimate guide to baby gear, with detailed tips on how to save plus brand reviews of cribs, strollers, car seats, high chairs and more.

Top 9 Smart Baby Safety Tips courtesy of Windsor Peak Press

1. OLD CRIBS ARE DEATH TRAPS.
According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission,“the major (safety) problem for babies is with old cribs, in which we have 50 babies a year die.” The best advice: pass up that hand-me-down.

2. AIRBAGS AND CAR SEATS DON’T MIX.
A recent study showed that infants could be seriously injured or killed if their rear-facing infant car seat was hit full force by an air bag. Once again, the problem was with rear-facing car seats placed in the front seat of a car with air bags. The best solution: the safest place for car seats is the center of the back seat.

3. LIMIT THE POSSIBILITY OF SUDDEN INFANT DEATH SYNDROME (SIDS).
Recent studies have determined that placing young infants face down in soft bedding may contribute to SIDS. Keep soft quilts, sheepskins, and pillows out of the baby’s crib and play area.

4. AVOID THE SHELVING AVALANCHE.
Shelves and bookcases are useful for storing lots of Junior’s stuff but they can be pulled over easily by a budding young climber. Anchor the shelves to the wall to prevent this disaster.

5. WALKERS ARE ACCIDENTS WAITING TO HAPPEN.
A walker suspends your baby above the floor, enabling him or her to “walk” by rolling around. The only problem: babies tend to “walk” right into walls, down staircases, and into other brain damage-causing obstacles. It’s a scandal that walkers haven’t been banned by the government. AN AMAZING 20,000 INJURIES PER YEAR ARE DIRECTLY ATTRIBUTED TO WALKERS.

6. STRAP YOUR BABY IN.
What causes the most injuries with high chairs? Babies who are not strapped in the chair—sadly, four to five deaths occur each year when babies “submarine” under the tray.

7. USE YOUR CAR SEATS CORRECTLY.
The government estimates 80% of car seats are installed incorrectly. While new car seat design rules have been proposed to help remedy the problem, they won’t take effect for several years. Meanwhile, parents must be diligent to make sure the seat is installed properly.

8. DON’T TRUST YOUR STROLLER’S BRAKES.
The best stroller models have brakes on two wheels; cheaper ones just have one wheel that brakes. Yet, even with the best brakes, don’t leave the stroller on an incline. Many accidents occur when the brakes fail.

9. MOUNT THOSE BABY GATES.
Install baby gates at the top and bottom of stairs. Consider mounting gates into the wall because a toddler’s weight is enough to push down a “pressure mounted” gate—and tumble down the stairs after it.

For more tips and useful information, please visit www.BabyBargains.com

TODDLER BARGAINS

Secrets to saving on toddler clothes, shoes, booster car seats, double strollers and more. This book is available in both print and an ebook format.

PURCHASING:

Please click here

Success Through Play™ comments:
We would like to thank Windsor Peak Press for sending us review copies of the books: Baby Bargains and Toddler Bargains. Denise and Alan Fields are to be commended for being consumer advocates and for empowering parents to seek out high quality, safe products for their babies and toddlers and teaching them they don’t have to break the bank in the process. The authors have taken the time to answer all of our questions promptly and have really impressed us! Each book published by Windsor Peak press (including these 2 featured today) boast a “no ad policy” meaning that there are no ads in the book. This essentially means that the authors are free to express their “real views” about products, without concern of what the companies may think! Success Through Play™ has no paid advertisers (even our ads on the right hand side are unpaid!) and we share their view that in order to be objective consumer advocates, paid ads need to be eliminated from the game.

Both books feature icons which alert parents when there is a money saving tips, important safety info etc which makes the books very user friendly. Online stores as well as brick and mortar stores are included in both books, giving parents many options to compare, shop and buy. The authors, parents to 2 children, rely on real parents for feedback about products and have a panel which tests out some of the products featured. Products are assigned a grade from A through to D, to assist parents in narrowing down their options. Our panel really found the comparison tables very useful when wanting to compare the features, prices and quality of car seats or strollers for example. At the end of each chapter, the authors select the top products in a category and rank them according to budget guidelines:”good” for those on a tight budget, better and best (budget is less of a concern). The authors highlight how you can save money while not sacrificing on quality or safety, which sets this series apart from all the other books on the market!

Buying products for your baby or toddler can be overwhelming to say that least! Parents want to buy high quality, safe products that won’t break the bank. How can a parent sift through the products on the market and find the ones that are reputable? The answer is simply “Baby Bargains” and “Toddler Bargains”. Arm yourself with these books to have the latest, detailed product info at your fingertips. You will not find a series of books like this on the market. Our expert panel really appreciated the detailed product views and fabulous index which will allow parents to easily reference the products to learn more.

Baby Bargains

This book has sold over 500,000 copies and has been featured on Oprah! The average cost of raising a baby during the first year alone is estimated to be $6600.This book focuses on products for babies aged birth to 2.It features 11 chapters and 600 pages of product reviews, money saving tips and excellent safety information that will make the task of buying for your new one less overwhelming. The book is very enjoyable to read and humorous at times! Readers will find reviews of companies are assigned a grade as well as a handy table and comparison
chart for many products. Every product category imaginable is covered in this book. If the authors don’t have space, you can read additional info on their site. Of particular note is the emphasis on safety throughout the book. We were very pleased to see the authors are pro breastfeeding and that the chapter on babywearing had been expanded and we both that it will continue to grow with each edition.

Please note a correction to page of the Baby Bargains Book. The authors have now changed their stance on selecting/purchasing baby bottles, which can be found here. Please make a note of this correction when you purchase the book! Based on the latest studies, the authors now recommend that parents buy BPA-Free or Glass bottles for their baby and we agree. You will soon see more glass bottles becoming widely available as a result of this research. In addition, Denise and Alan Fields have uncovered information that indicates that bumper pads in cribs can be dangerous and thus Success Through Play™ concludes from this article that parents should skip the bumper pads altogether. The information about selecting a car seat and safety proofing your house is particularly noteworthy. There is a removable card at the end of this book for shoppers with checklists and handy tips! This is a fantastic book to buy if you have recently learned that you, a family member or colleage is pregnant. Highly recommended

Toddler Bargains

Exeperts estimate that it will cost approximately $9480 to raise a toddler per year (from age 2 to 5). This book follows the popular book “Baby Bargains” and focuses on products for toddlers and children aged 2 to 5.You will learn how to outfit your toddlers room on a budget (toddler bed, furniture etc), learn all about potty training and which products the authors think will assist your child to master it, how to buy good quality affordable clothing and shoes, double stroller, jogging strollers and much more! Available in both print and ebook. Highly recommended

Visit the Baby Bargains website and Toddler Bargains website to gather additional information not found in the book and to access the fabulous message boards, where readers swap bargains, coupons, gear reviews and more. You can also chat about general parenting questions and more.

To access the Baby Bargains Blog, please click here

We will be featuring Baby 411 and Toddler 411 during January 2008. Stay Tuned!

For more information about any of the books mentioned, please click here

Steven Granville, co-founder of Fleurville®:

Fleurville® is a company focused on creating compelling solutions for modern parents. Our team of talented designers, artists and business people is led by Catherine and Steve Granville. Through good design and rigorous testing, we are committed to continuing to solve problems that parents encounter every day. The genesis of the brand was our entrance into the parallel universe of parenting. As we became parents we encountered brands we needed but did not want. Our whole focus is growing a brand made up of products that you both need and want.

Fleurville® has unveiled their new eco-friendly fabric, called Green -LAM™, which is PVC Free. Success Through Play™ wanted to find out more….

Steve:
Green-LAM™ is an abbreviation of ‘green’ lamination. Green-LAM™ is created with Fleurville’s® very environmentally friendly polyurethane laminate Green-LAM™. Green-LAM™ has superior attributes like moisture–repellency, UV-resistance, and overall durability. Most other bag companies use PVC for this application. We don’t. We hope you share our commitment to teaching children responsible stewardship of our environment. We are pushing our company to be as ‘green’ as possible and one of the 1st things we have done is eliminate the use of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) in our products. Typically used as water proofing, PVC has been replaced by our Green-LAM™ in our products.

PVC is the only major plastic that contains chlorine, so it is unique in the hazards it creates. PVC production fuses vinyl chloride molecules with toxic metals such as lead and cadmium, which are added as plasticizers and stabilizers. Because of the chemical properties of chlorine, the by-products of PVC production tend to be far more toxic, more persistent in the environment, and more likely to build up in the food supply and the bodies of people than otherwise similar chemicals that do not contain chlorine. Many other bag manufacturers use PVC because it is cheap. We don’t.

The Sling Tote

The Sling Tote (ST) is a mid size tote. We have found that as the baby gets bigger the bag can get smaller. So the ST is designed for the 2nd time Mom or someone who doesn’t need to carry what will fit in a MotherShip. It has many problem solving features; 5 feet to keep the bottom clean, fleece-line pocket to prevent scratching of sunglasses, etc… each designed to help the care
giver through their day.

Store Finder:

To find a store in your area click here

Alternatively, you can shop online at Fleurville®

Success Through Play™ comments:

Fleurville® is certified as a ‘San Francisco Bay Area Green Business’ by the County of Marin, California. Fleurville® supports many worthy organizations around the country; click here for details. Fleurville® offers a full range of gorgeous bags for the entire family. We will be highlighting the The Sling Tote today. The Sling Tote is an eco-friendly, designer diaper bag which is superbly designed and constructed. It is available in many beautiful colors and patterns.

The quality of the materials used are top notch and you can be assured that this diaper bag will last you through several babies and beyond. When your children are potty trained, this stylish bag will make a fantastic day bag or carry on when traveling.

Some key feature includes:

*Removable adjustable padded messenger strap
*Stowable tote handles
*Elastic topped pockets
*See-through wipe case
*A changing cloth
*Insulated Bottle Holder
*A handy carabiner/key clip
*Fleece lined “scratch guard” cell phone/sunglasses/Ipod pockets

We distributed the beautiful Fleurville® Sling Tote to a mom in our parent panel, Gina, who has a toddler named Marc. Gina and her husband, like many other parents around the world, are concerned about the toxic chemicals that are found in many baby and child products. Gina was thrilled to learn about Fleurville’s® Green-LAM™ fabric, which clearly sets it apart from similiar designer bags on the international market today. Gina commented on the beautiful pattern on her Sling Tote and admitted that it made her feel stylish. “When you find yourself in sweats and spend your days chasing after an active toddler, it feels so wonderful to walk around town with a beautiful bag. What I love most about the Fleurville® Sling Tote is that it doesn’t look like a diaper bag. I know that I will be able to get many years use out of it.” Gina stored her Sling Tote underneath her stroller, in the designated mesh basket, during walks to the park. Gina loved having the option of using the tote handles or the adjustable padded messenger strap (which she found to be very comfy), depending on her situation. The Sling Tote’s elastic topped pockets helped to keep the contents of the tote in place and Gina really loved the fact that she didn’t have to go searching through her bag to find what she needed.

Gina was impressed with the sturdy construction and quality stitching of the insulated bottle holder, which she uses regularly! The cute orange see-through wipe case held sufficient wipes for Marc and Gina added that “it is a fun way to store wipes “. Gina loved the Sling Tote’s convenient pockets where she stored her cell phone and other necessities.

If you have an infant and need a larger diaper bag, you may want to consider the MotherShip by Fleurville®. For active, sporty moms, check out the Suzy Pak. For those quick trips to the grocery store or when running short errands, the Escape Pod may be just the small bag that you require. Fleurville® offers an eco-friendly, non-toxic range of bags for children, including the Lunch Pak and the Messenger. Dads, Fleurville® has not forgotten you…check out the cool DJ Bags which were created with you in mind. Fleurville® even offers a stylish and functional Auto Bag which can be viewed here.

Success Through Play™ would like to thank Fleurville® for sending us a sample of their Sling Tote for this review.

To view the full range of eco-friendly designer bags, please visit:

www.Fleurville.com

Bumbleride was launched in San Diego, California by a husband and wife team, Matthew and Emily Reichardt, who were less than impressed by the stroller market at the time.

Through design and research, they developed Bumbleride, a brand inspired by the current young and modern family. Here at Bumbleride, we develop products that are young, hip and fresh at a modest price point to appeal to a wide range of families.

Bumbleride’s collection of strollers is playful, responsive and fun. We are reshaping baby mobility in a way to flow seamlessly into your modern lifestyle. Our design inspiration comes from you: the young and modern family. We strive to create products that are urban, stylish and functional while remaining sound and durable. Our collection is versatile and multi-faceted and includes a variety of features, vibrant colors and clever accessories.

No matter where you live or where you go, there is a Bumbleride designed for you. Bumbleride design is inspired by you.

Product Descriptions:

Bumbleride Flyer

With an easy reversible handle and a fully reclining backrest, the Bumbleride Flyer can transform from a classic carriage style stroller into a forward facing stroller in seconds. The Bumbleride Flyer is the lightest stroller in Bumbleride’s collection (at 19 lbs*.) and offers a compact fold for the ultimate in convenience. The Bumbleride Flyer pairs comfort and versatility to accentuate any urban family’s busy lifestyle.

* five point adjustable safety harness
* infant headrest & shoulder pads
* reversible handle so baby can face you or the world
* front & rear wheel locking system
* adjustable handle from 32″-45″
* four position reclining seat
* adjustable footrest
* spacious cargo basket
* zip-off canopy for maximum sun coverage
* NEW 7″ lockable swivel wheels
* lightweight anodized aluminum chassis
* easy fold

Technical Specifications

* standing dimensions: 30″ L 21″ W 40″ H
* folded dimensions: 35″ L 21 “W 12” H
* total weight: 19lbs*, capacity: 45lbs

*Less the canopy and wheels

Bumbleride Indie

Whether navigating the city sidewalks or cruising the parks and beaches, the Bumbleride Indie allows you and your little one to enjoy a secure and comfortable ride. The Bumbleride Indie is equipped with three 12″ air filled tires to smooth out the bumpiest of terrains. An easy front wheel lock converts the Bumbleride Indie from multi terrain stroller to lightweight jogger and the four positioning backrest is easy for you to adjust with one hand. Folding and storing the Bumbleride Indie is a breeze with the lightest weight and most compact fold in its class.

* five point adjustable safety harness
* infant headrest & shoulder pads
* swivel front wheel with front wheel lock
* carry handle
* 12″ air inflated tires
* four position reclining backrest
* adjustable handle from 32″ – 45″
* spacious cargo basket
* zip-off canopy for maximum sun coverage
* lightweight anodized aluminum frame
* compact fold

Technical Specifications

* standing dimensions: 36″L 24.5″W 34.5″H
* folded dimension: 32″L 24.5″W 15″H
* total weight: 20lbs*, capacity: 45lbs

*Less the canopy and wheels.

PURCHASING

Click here to access the Bumbleride Retailer Directory.

Success Through Play™ comments:

We are very pleased to feature 2 innovative and well designed strollers from Bumbleride Inc: The 2007 Bumbleride Flyer and the NEW! 2007 Bumbleride Indie. We would like to thank Bumbleride Inc. for their generous donation of each stroller to our parent panel. Our staff have been truly impressed with the superb customer service that we have received from Bumbleride and we feel confident recommending a company with such integrity. We would like to personally thank to Mike Curry for his assistance with this review.

We are fortunate to have an engineering professor (PhD) on our expert panel, who personally assembled each of the 2 strollers. He confirmed that both the “Bumbleride Flyer and the Bumbleride Indie are very well engineered and structurally sound.” He added that “the welded frames in both the Bumbleride Flyer and Bumbleride Indie provide strength, stiffness, and long life that riveted frame assemblies do not and that parents can feel confident purchasing these quality strollers”. He added: “The secure yet easy to operate locking pins for adjustable components show attention to detail” and gave both strollers 2 thumbs up.

Both the Flyer and Bumbleride are available in 4 different color options: Bamboo (Green), Koa (Brown), Ruby (Red) and Marine (Blue). The fabrics are machine washable which is a great bonus. The ERGONOMIC, fully height adjustable handle bars on both the Bumbleride Flyer and the Indie are truly exceptional…certainly one of the best that we have seen in the industry! Why is a fully height adjustable handle so imperative? Quite simply, if you are not maintaining a good posture when you are pushing a stroller, you may very well find yourself developing back and shoulder pain. Glance in the mirror when you are pushing your stroller and note if your shoulders are relaxed in a neutral position, vs hunched. How does your body feel after you have been pushing the stroller? With 7 adjustment height settings, you are assured that you will find the ideal height for each member of the family. If you suffer from any wrist problems, (carpal tunnel, etc) you can easily find a neutral position for your wrist, which you will find invaluable. This neutral position allows you to steer the stroller as you would hold a steering wheel. The added advantage of having 12 height options will soon become apparent when you need tight maneuverability in crowded places or grocery stores. Both strollers feature a fantastic 5 point padded harness system which will keep your precious one safely in place. Both the Bumbleride and the Indie boast padded handle bars which are comfy to grip. A 4 position backrest incline can be found on both strollers allowing you to customize your child’s position, depending on their age, size, postural ability and mood! Both strollers come with an accessory cup holder which adjusts to fit a range of cup widths. Both strollers boast a dual ratcheting canopy which can fold down to the bumper bar to protect your little one from the elements, as well as from sensory overload. The canopy has a peek a boo window which will allow you to observe your child. The rear of the canopy features a pocket for light essentials. An accessory foldable bumper bar, infant headrest and gorgeous foot muff are included with each stroller.

The matching foot muff actually zips in place, thus remaining securely in place and will help to keep your child warm. There is a handy zipper pocket on the foot muff for storing some lightweight basics. Bumbleride strollers have included this range of accessories with the stroller, whereas other stroller companies charge additional fees and make consumers purchase them separately.

2007 Bumbleride Flyer – The Ergonomic, Reversible Handled Stylish Urban stroller!

The 2007 Bumbleride Flyer is truly an ergonomically designed stroller that you can custom to both baby/child and parental needs. Its innovative design enables it to hold several popular car seats (with an adapter) and to convert into a carriage (with simple adjustments of the footrest and removal of the bumper bar).

The fully height adjustable handle bars, 4 position backrest and reversible handle bars make it an outstanding buy. A quality stroller with reversible handle bars is very hard to find in this price range and this feature alone, makes the Flyer an outstanding buy. Why are reversible handles so useful? Well both parents and baby will agree that being able to see each other is reassuring for both and is especially useful to first time parents, babies who are being transitioned from carriers, fussy babies or babies who are experiencing separation anxiety.

Fabric options:

Bumbleride: “For the 2007 collection, we have designed four new shades of ultra modern fabrics for you to dress your Bumbleride in. Both Rocket and Flyer models can be accompanied by multiple accessory fabric sets to completely transform your ride from one hue to another.” You can essentially have 4 different looks with your Bumbleride Flyer stroller, which we think is genius and will certainly appeal to the fashion-minded!

We distributed the 2007 Bumbleride Flyer, which weighs in at 22.5 lbs to a family who has a 6 month year old daughter and a 5 year old son. The family had not bought a reversible handle stroller when their son was born and didn’t know what they had been missing until now!

“I can’t begin to tell you how reassuring it is for me to see baby Jessica anytime I want to. She looks up at me and knows that I am right here. With my son, I had to keep stopping on my walks and walk around to the front of the stroller to check on him!”

Another feature which really impressed this family was how adjustable this stroller really is. Mom is 5″3 and dad 5″10 and with a simple click, they can adjust the stroller to the perfect height. The fully adjustable footrest and 4 position backrest incline enabled the family to turn the Bumbleride stroller into a “carriage” when Jessica needed a nap and when Jessica wanted to see the world, they could easily adjust it in an upright position. The dual ratcheting canopy was a winner with this family who were simply amazed that the canopy could be pulled down to the level of the bumper bar, providing Jessica with full sun cover protection. The family loved the modern look and feel of the stroller, which reminded them of the European strollers that they had seen when they toured Europe. The family noted that the stroller handled itself very well in a variety of situations, whether in the mall, grocery shopping, or strolling to the park, baby was content and happy. Their diaper bag fit in the underneath basket, and they could easily bend down and reach for it when necessary. Both mom and dad found the stroller easy to fold (folded dimensions: 35″ L 21 “W 12” H).

When it started to sprinkle, dad pulled the rain cover over the Flyer (purchased separately) and found that it protected Jessica from the rain and kept her nice and dry.

NEW! 2007 Bumbleride Indie – The Ultimate, Ergonomic, light weight all terrain stroller!

The NEW! Indie is the hottest three-wheeler, all terrain stroller on the market. It is very solid and has a low center of gravity which provides a stable platform. This translates to an all terrain stroller that is much less likely to tip over. Geniusly designed, the front wheel has the option of fixed or swivel which adds to the versatility of the stroller and can pivot a full 360 degrees. The Lockable front swivel wheel will allow you to maneuver over rougher terrain and with the simple flick of a switch, will convert to a swivel wheel, which enables the Indie to navigate tight corners!

We distributed the Indie to a single mom of a 1 year old boy, Gregory. Mom was really surprised and delighted with the Indie’s weight, which is 23lbs, one of the lightest all terrain strollers around. Mom found the Indie to be very stable and secure and commented that it “handled grass, sidewalks, and rougher terrain very well”. In the past, Mom had bought a cheaper all terrain stroller, but ended up not using it because, it simply wasn’t stable and tended to tip over, a common feature of cheaper, poorly made strollers. Mom loved the window, which is built into the canopy and enables an adult to peek through the plastic window to check on the child! “This saved me from having to stop the stroller each time I wanted to check on him!”. Mom stored Gregory’s diaper bag in the basket underneath, and commented that she really appreciated the little zips and pockets located throughout the stroller to store her lightweight items! The accessory cup holder was a hit with mom, who was delighted that it could hold her favorite Synergy Kombucha Fruit Drink! Mom admitted that there is a small learning curve for folding the Indie, however once she grasped the concept, she became quite the expert and was pleased with how compact the fold was for an all-terrain stroller (Folded Indie Dimensions: 32″L x 24.5″W x 15″H). An added bonus is the padded foam carry strap which makes lifting the stroller in and out of the car a breeze! The compact fold combined with it’s light weight made it the idea all terrain stroller for her to take when on the go.

“Most of the other all terrain strollers that my friends have are SO heavy that they are limited by it, this is not the case with my Indie, which is now envied by my friends!”. Gregory loved his new Indie and mom was pleased with the plush seating which provided a comfy ride for her precious cargo!”

Mom loved the breaks on the Indie, which she could engage at the flick of her ankle. Success Through Play™ thinks that the Indie will soon be a common name in every American household and we applaud Bumbleride for this innovative, stylish and solid all terrain stroller.

To see the full collection, and learn more please visit:

www.bumbleride.com

Plan Creations Co. Ltd, founded in 1981 is the manufacturer and distributor of educational wooden toys under the brand ‘PlanToys’. Our company creates toys that inspire imagination along with being environmentally responsible and maintaining good values. With PlanToys’ innovation and quality, our toys have been welcomed into the hearts of many children around the world. We do our best to make a positive impact on all areas such as the nature or the working environment. In every stage of production, from selecting materials to making the toys, we aim to satisfy all parties rather than targeting only business gains.

PlanToys selects environmentally-friendly materials:

* Preservative-Free Rubber wood

PlanToys is the first and only manufacturer to use chemical-free wood taken from rubber trees that no longer provides latex. Most of the rubber trees that stop producing latex are 25 years old and would be cut down and burnt to make weak quality coal that is ecologically harmful. PlanToys has raised the value of rubber wood to its highest and helped sustain a healthy ecosystem.

* E0 (Non-Formaldehyde Glue)

PlanToys realizes the harm of Formaldehyde glue often found in wooden toys. We are the first to come up with special materials and process to remove the glue from our wood. This is for the safety of all children which is PlanToy’s top concern.

* Water Based Color

PlanToys uses non-toxic and environmentally-friendly colors that are safe for children of all ages, including those under 3 years old.

* Recyclable Package

The increasing waste level around the world is damaging the environment and deteriorating ours and the future generation’s quality of life. That is why PlanToys chooses to use recyclable packages that can be re-used to help reduce waste.

PlanToys’ products are produced under environmentally responsible conditions:
PlanToys received ISO 9001 (Quality Management) in every of our production stage simply because we care–from choosing chemical-free preservatives to maintain the wood to wood conversion, detailing, erasing edges, and assembling products according to the required standards. We apply non-toxic colors that are harmless to children’s health and wellbeing. Before the production is complete, all PlanToys pass quality standard check before being packaged and delivered.PlanToys has recently been certified with ISO 14001 (Environmental Management). This reflects the company’s determination in managing safe and ecologically-aware productions and activities. PlanToys recognizes the importance of our employees and our society.

Social Contribution

PlanToys is encouraging the building of a supportive environment by establishing institutions and organizations that promote learning and the development of children.

Success Through Play™ will be featuring the following 4 PlanToys today:

Product Descriptions provided by PlanToys:

Geo Beads:

Arrange the brightly colored geometric beads into various figures and forms. One set includes 9 wooden beads in different shapes and colors. Marked safe for ages 2 and up.

Balancing Monkeys:

Try to hang the monkeys on the branches but watch out, balance needs to be established and maintained on both sides! This toy helps to develop a child’s mathematical skills by getting them to calculate the correct distance required in order to keep the monkeys balanced. Marked safe for ages 3 and up.

Percussion Set:

The percussion set is designed on the round wooden base. It consists of a guiro, maracas, tambourine and a drum. Children will learn a variety of sounds from different instruments. It helps children develop eye-hand coordination and learn to play with other children creating their own musical band. Marked safe for ages 2 and up.

Nuts & Bolts:

Create forms & imaginary figures by assembling and reassembling the nuts and bolts into various mixes & matches. Safe for ages 2 and up.

PURCHASING INFORMATION:

USA:

Amazon.com

J.T. Puffins

All Wood Toys

Canada:

PLAYWELL ENTERPRISES LTD.
Phone 416-439-0044
Fax 416-439-4656
E-mail pelca@rogers.com
Contact Person Mr. Henry Lim

UK:
www.marbel.co.uk

Australia:
www.teaching.com.au

South Africa:
Think Toys
36 Kya North Park, Bernie Street,
Kya Sand, South Africa
Tel: 27 11 708 4884 / 5
Fax: 27 11 708 4989
E-mail: jenny.g@global.co.za
Contact: Ms. Jenny

Success Through Play™ comments:
We would like to thank PlanToys for sending us toys for this review. In addition, to Diana Ukalovic for her assistance with this article.

We give PlanToys a standing ovation for their commitment to eco-friendly wooden toys that are developmentally stimulating and fun to play with.

The children in our test panel loved playing with each of the toys featured her and the parents commented “how refreshing it was to see wooden toys Vs plastic ones!”.

Geo Beads:

This set includes 9 wooden beads which boast a variety of different shapes and colors! Your child will have so much fun threading the wooden beads. Threading beads will help your child work on integrating the 2 sides of his body together (bilateral coordination). This is an important skill to practice because most activities in the classroom require excellent bilateral hand skills (cutting skills, gluing etc). Threading beads provides your child with an opportunity to practice his eye hand coordination, which will later enable him to successfully copy from the blackboard and play a variety of sports! The Geo Beads feature an innovative wooden peg which functions as the “threading needle” and is easy for a child to grasp. Your child will be able to practice a variety of grasp patterns (key grip, tripod grasp, pincer grasp) by picking up the different shapes in their hands and threading them on the string. A tip we can offer is to encourage your child to practice threading the beads both on and off the string. When taking the beads “off”, have your child take each shape off separately and “cheat” to maximize fine motor practice! Overall, this is a fantastic toy for improving upper extremity coordination and will enable to them to develop their fine motor skills while having fun!

Balance Monkeys:

This remarkable toy is a true standout and we applaud the PlanToys Design Team for developing such a creative and innovative toy. This toy is marked safe for child aged 3 and up, but will grow with your child and assist her when it’s time to practice addition and multiplication skills. We haven’t come across a toy that has such a long life span, which makes this toy truly exceptional. Young children will enjoy playing with the 6 wooden monkeys in “pretend play” and once their fine motor skills improve, they will challenge themselves by attempting to “hang” the monkeys on the “trees”. This task will help your child practice eye hand coordination skills, as well as improve upper extremity strength and coordination. Picking up the monkeys by the “hooks” will encourage your child to refine his pincer grasp! Older children will learn how to “balance” the tree scale by doing multiplication and addition problems! Read the insert which will explain this in detail. Highly recommended.

Percussion Set:

This fabulous percussion set will encourage your child to appreciate music and sounds and will provide him with an opportunity to develop rhythm, upper extremity coordination and have lots of fun playing a musical instrument. This set includes 4 colorful instruments which at first glance look identical but if you look closer you will find the guiro, maracas, tambourine and a drum, plus a stand to store them in. Young children will love exploring each of the musical instruments and will be rewarded with a wonderful sound for auditory feedback and reinforcement. Each musical instrument offers something unique! Play some background music, distribute the instruments and gather a group of children and let the “band” play their music.

Nuts and Bolts:

This colorful Nuts and Bolts sets (2 in total) will allow your child an opportunity to work on many fine motor skills (muscle strength, eye hand coordination, motor planning, supination and pronation of the wrist, etc) and have plenty of fun while doing this. Suitable for a girl or boy, your child will really enjoy the challenge of taking apart the Nuts and Bolts and re-assembling them. The Geo Beads are compatible with this set, plus 3 additional items from PlanToys (Fun Stacker, Matching Animals and the Fraction Play) so your child will be able to mix and match from these sets for additional fun and variety!

We will be featuring several more PlanToy Products in the months to come, so please stay tuned!

To see the full catalog of PlanToys please visit:

www.plantoys.com

“Seven Steps to Baby Bliss” DVD is endorsed by the Australian College of Midwives Inc.

DVD Description:
Become a great Dad – fast!! and a great help to your Partner (New Mum) while enjoying your first baby!!Research shows that a baby whose Dad is lovingly involved in his/her care – right from the start – that baby is more likely to have a positive future. But how can you get involved if you don’t know what to do?? How can your partner feel supported and happy that you are safely caring for your Baby.This fun educational DVD will quickly help a new parent become competent – then confident!! Topics covered include: Settling a crying baby; SIDS prevention; feeding your newborn, bathing and dressing your baby; baby massage; and much more!!

PURCHASING

Please click here

Success Through Play™ comments:
We would like to thank Ros Vroom (RN Reg Midwife/Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse) of Dadstheword Pty Ltd. for sending us a review copy of the Seven Steps to Baby Bliss DVD all the way from Australia! This very unique DVD features a male midwife who DVD highlights the role of the dad and this clearly sets it apart from most DVD’s on the market. Modern dads around the world want to be an equal partner in raising their child and need positive support and encouragement to do this. This DVD will empower dads and equip them with the skills necessary to take an active part in caring for their new baby. Our panel of dads-to-be commented that until now, they had not come across any DVD’s on the market which highlight the role of the dad. The dads-to-be thoroughly enjoyed watching the DVD Seven Steps to Baby Bliss and really appreciated the fact that a male midwife was “teaching them the ropes”. They admitted that they were “were really surprised that the DVD was so funny and enjoyable to watch”. “We weren’t overwhelmed with a ton of information; but instead were taught just the key points necessary to do the job well”. Success Through Play was really impressed with the safety information contained in the DVD, particularly with regard to SIDS and what to do if you feel overwhelmed when caring for a crying baby. Rest assured that the dad-to-be or the mom-to-be won’t be bored or overwhelmed when watching this DVD. The humorous tone throughout this DVD ensures that the viewer will be entertained while learning key concepts. Seven Steps to Baby Bliss highlights what to expect when baby comes home from the hospital, dads will be taught how to change a diaper properly, burp a baby, how to bathe a baby, cord care, tips about dressing a baby, how to settle a crying baby, ideas for playing with baby and many more key topics. We were really excited to see a section about “Baby Massage” and the importance of it, along with tips for massaging your baby.

With all the focus on the mom-to-be, the dad-to-be may be feeling a little left out of the picture. This DVD will make a great gift for the dad-to-be and is sure to make him feel special! We commend Dads the Word for acknowledging dads as an equal partner in child rearing and for producing this DVD.

The Dads the Word website is a fantastic resource for both moms and dads and you can access it by visiting:

www.dadstheword.com

Tips for New Dads
To access great tips for new dads, please visit this link

Newborn FAQ can be accessed here

Your Amazing Newborn by Marshall Klaus, Phyllis Klaus

Jan 19, 2000
Paperback
US $20.00
CAN $24.00
UK £13.99
ISBN: 9780738201887
ISBN-10: 073820188X
Published by Da Capo Press

Description:

Your Amazing Newborn celebrates a baby’s extraordinary abilities in the first hours and days of life. Marshall and Phyllis Klaus take parents and all those who care for new families into this freshly charted world, one they have been exploring for decades. The results of their fascinating research are illuminated by over 120 exquisite photographs, all of babies less than two weeks old. Your Amazing Newborn begins before birth with images of fetuses actually comforting themselves in the womb. We then see newborns less than one hour old crawling unassisted to the breast, recognizing the voices of their parents, and shutting our unwanted sights and sounds. Parents will learn how to discover an infant’s clear preferences for certain shapes, smells, tastes, and tones of voice. They will be delighted by the ways babies seem to be able to ensure their own survival, and they will be amazed that within days after birth, newborns can engage in an intimate and reciprocal choreography, and nestle into a parent’s embrace as though they had practiced for years. Your Amazing Newborn is a must for parents-to-be, grandparents, siblings, and caregivers; through its stunning photographs we see the first reach, the first mutual gaze-and most wonderful of all-the first spark of recognition that ignites a lifetime bond.

PURCHASING:

USA:
Perseus Distribution, Customer Service, 1094 Flex Drive, Jackson, TN 38301, 800-343-4499,
perseus.orders@perseusbooks.com

UK :
Grantham Book Services, 01476 541080,
orders@gbs.tbs-ltd.co.uk

Success Through Play™ comments:

We would like to thank Lissa Warren from Da Capo Press for sending us a review copy. Your Amazing Newborn will teach parents how truly remarkable and intelligent your newborn baby is. Parents will develop insight into a newborns abilities (which will surely surprise you) and learn to read their infants cues and respond appropriately. This remarkable book is based on extensive research and newborn observations and features over 120 extraordinary photographs of newborns (babies are less than 2 weeks of age) which will fascinate and impress the reader. Of particular note is the authors explanation of the 6 states of consciousness of the newborn, which are very well illustrated. The reader will learn how to observe their newborn and identify which state their newborn is in and respond accordingly. This book will equip you with the skills to learn when to play with your baby, when to put him down to sleep, etc which will undoubtedly be life changing for parents. Infants communicate with you through their behaviors and body language and learning how to read these cues is really key to understanding your newborn. There is a noteworthy chapter for parents who adopt a newborn. Parents will learn how to bond with their adopted baby and ensure a smooth transition into the family unit. The Success Through Play™ team were literally unable to put this book down and we read it from cover to cover. We honestly had no idea that newborns were capable of demonstrating such intelligence and remarkable abilities demonstrated in the photographs and we know that you will be equally impressed by the content of the book as we have been!

Your Amazing Newborn is THE essential book for understanding your newborns behavior and will appeal to parents, grandparents, caregivers, educators and professionals. This book will equip the reader with the knowledge necessary to foster a deep appreciation for a newborns unique abilities and thus empower and enable adults to respond to newborns in an appropriate manner which will foster love, bonding and a successful happy relationship. This one of kind book is nothing short of extraordinary and is a true treasure. Highly recommended.

Ecobaby Organics was created by Ginny Turner, now mom of 4. She had a vision while pregnant with her first child, of creating products that protect babies, children, and entire families from the harmful effects of too many chemicals. Thus the creation of organic clothing, mattresses, diapers, toys, bath and bedding for the whole family. From this dream, Ginny started manufacturing organic items and retailing in 1993. After many years she made the organics all available wholesale and for drop shipping in order to provide easy, risk free work for moms who wished to also stay at home with their own children while making a good living. Now the full line includes over 1600 products for babies, children, and everything for the bedroom. Every item in your bedroom, and near your baby can be chemical free. It is all here at Ecobaby Organics.

We will be featuring the following items today from Ecobaby:

Rattle Ring

The rattle rings are made from 100% organic cotton. The brown color is grown in that color so no dyes ever enter your baby’s mouth. The rattle can be soaked and frozen for teething babies and the little knots are great for new chewers to relieve discomfort.

Ball Set (2)

These organic cotton balls are stuffed here in U.S with our organic wool. This makes it light and dust mite resistant. Balls are a great way to interact with babies 6m and up. Best first game: Sit across from baby at table and roll ball gently to her. She will roll it back. Also can do on floor. Next step, throwing ball in air. The squishability (my word) of the ball makes it easier to grasp as youngsters will grasp with fingers.

Organic Nursing/Play Pillow

This play pillow is useful for so many things. Made with organic cotton and stuffed with Pure chemical-free Eco Wool. Use first for supporting your little one while nursing. Then you can place on floor and prop baby on it either face down or up for play and exercise.

Organic Cotton Pillowcase

Our pillowcase is made for many styles of nursing pillows so you can have a soft organic cotton barrier between your baby and anything synthetic you may be using. Or better yet, use with our organic pillow as a protection against grease and spittle. Looks pretty too.

PURCHASING

Please visit www.ecobaby.com for baby items and www.purerest.com for adult bedding and bath. Worldwide shipping is available.

Success Through Play™ Comments:

We are very proud to feature Ecobaby today. Ecobaby is a company committed to providing safe chemical free products for your baby and family. You may be surprised to learn that many chemicals lurk in baby/toddler/child clothing and products and it is for this reason that Ecobaby decided to offer consumers a safe, chemical free range of products. We were really pleased to learn that there are currently 400 work at home moms selling their products which allows them to earn income while taking care of their children. We applaud them for empowering stay at home moms! The Ecobaby website is well designed and makes searching for baby items a breeze! You can even sign up for the all occasion gift registry on their site! We thank Ecobaby for sending us samples of their products for this review!

Teething Play Toy

Babies learn by mouthing objects around them. For this very reason, it’s imperative to surround baby with safe items to mouth. Safety in terms of the object not posing a choking hazard and safety in terms of chemical free toys. This adorable organic cotton rattle is beautifully made! Rest easy knowing that baby is mouthing/sucking/exploring a toy made from organic cotton fabric and all natural untreated wood. There is no paint in site to worry about! Baby will enjoy the different textures of the “hat” vs the body. A highlight of the rattle is the natural wooden ring which baby will love grasping, allowing him an opportunity to practice grasp patterns. This toy makes a very faint rattle sound when shaken. Don’t be surprised if this rattle becomes your baby’s favorite take along toy!

Ball set (2)

The high quality Ecobaby pastel balls will provide hours of fun and entertainment for your baby/toddler/child. They are a dream to touch! Rolling, throwing and catching balls provide your child with an opportunity to develop his eye hand coordination skills, build upper extremity strength and endurance and refine bilateral hand skills.

Organic Nursing/Play Pillow

This top quality multi-functional organic cotton pillow is beautifully designed and will appeal to both mom and baby alike! It features a beautiful pattern on it (ours was a leaf pattern). The pillow is supportive for breastfeeding and feels beautiful against the skin! Let baby practice supervised tummy time by placing him over the pillow, which will provide him with upper body support to begin to life his head and neck. When baby is starting to sit on his own for a few seconds, place him in a seated position in the middle of the pillow, which will provide him with bilateral support and assist him to sit up! You will reach for this pillow time and time again. Makes an ideal gift!

Ecobaby offers beautiful organic cotton pillow cases which coordinate with the pillows. We hope to be able to feature additional items from Ecobaby during 2008.

To view the full catalog range, please visit:

www.ecobaby.com

www.purerest.com

Success Through Play™ is pleased to bring you this interview with Kimberly Rider, who is the author of the books Organic Baby: Simple Steps for Healthy Living and The Healthy Home Workbook, which we are featuring today. The books are published by Chronicle Books and we thank them for sending us the review copies.

Kimberly Rider is the founder of Atmosphera an interior design firm dedicated to blending sustainable materials and modern style for homeowners, developers and business owners. Kimberly is a frequent guest on HGTV’s “Curb Appeal” and a host of its “100 Sizzling Summer Ideas.” She lives in Marin County, California, with her family.

Success Through Play™ had the opportunity to interview Kimberly Rider.

Have you books been well received and do you think that consumers are moving towards a more eco-friendly lifestyle for both themselves and their children?

People respond very enthusiastically to the books, and they demonstrate true appreciation for my concern and simple approach to the topic, as they’re presented in the book. Consumers are absolutely aware that eco-friendly options exist. I try to show how those options can be just as stylish, if not more so, than their conventional counterparts. This way of thinking is truly starting to catch on, particularly among my interior design clients. Some of the eco-friendly design alternatives are a little hard to find, and my clients get so excited when I show them the
latest and the best. They feel privileged to get an insider’s glimpse into the industry and get to have the most recent advances in their homes.

What was the inspiration behind writing your book: Organic Baby: Simple Steps for Healthy Living?

Preparing to have my own baby proved a challenge when I really got into it. I found that collaborating with a spouse and surrounding family members was more work than I thought it would be. Everyone wants what’s best for your new arrival, but we all have different viewpoints about what matters most. I needed to sift through my recommendations from the first book and find the ones that were particularly budget-friendly. And, navigating the pressures to buy all the things that were being thrust upon us as “must haves” was a bit overwhelming. My husband and I really focused on true essentials and made it a priority to take care of our relationship just as much as we made lists of things to do and buy. This book presents many of our experiences, including the pregnancy, labor and first week home— it distills what I felt was truly the most important information to consider when preparing for a new baby.

Can you offer our readers 10 Organic Baby Tips?

Top Ten Organic Baby Tips:

* Choose a eco-friendly crib mattress made from organic cotton
* Remove your shoes when you enter the nursery.
* Select a low- or no-VOC paint for the nursery walls.
* Investigate new, easy-to-use styles of cloth diapers and biodegradable liners.
* Dress your baby in organic cotton and wool processed without chemicals.
* Use coconut-derived or castile soap, plus baking soda, to keep clothes, bedding, and diapers fresh without bleach.
* Look for baby soaps and shampoos with essential oils.
* Make your own baby food by pureeing cooked organic veggies and freezing individual portions in an ice tray.
* Use an organic cotton grocery cart liner to protect your baby from germs.
* Be sure to let friends and family know your preference for non-toxic and organic products.

What was the inspiration behind writing your book: The Healthy Home Workbook: Easy Steps for Eco-Friendly Living?

It was the culmination of years of studying industrial design materials and chemicals, being inspired by my work as an interior designer and starting to see the not-so-positive connection between industry and human health. I knew that people had an interest in the subject matter, but many of those people were already experts in the field or so immersed in the nuts and bolts of green design that they knew exactly what I was talking about. They didn’t need any more proof that a green lifestyle could be a healthier one. The book came about because I wanted to share the knowledge with a broader audience, especially those so influential in the decisions of the household—like people doing the grocery shopping and decorating. This book is for everyone, especially those who are interested in changing some of their habits.

Book descriptions:

Organic Baby: Simple Steps for Healthy Living

Record numbers of parents are choosing organic foods and non-toxic products that are healthier for their children and kinder to the planet – to the tune of $50 billion dollars spent worldwide last year. But many parents are still mystified about the best ways to integrate organic products into their children’s lives. Organic Babyfrom Chronicle Books, is an easy, step-by-step guide for parents to create an eco-friendly environment for little ones.

Author of The Healthy Home Workbook, interior designer and new mother Kimberly Rider offers parents dozens of organic, non-toxic and eco-friendly solutions that fit their priorities and their lifestyle – as well as their budget. From cribs to bubble bath to baby’s first foods, Rider highlights health concerns, navigates the range of available products and guides the way to safe and appealing choices. Kimberly’s advice, tips and resources are invaluable tools for any parents that would like to incorporate organic materials into their baby’s life, whether it’s a complete organic makeover, or just a few important details that ensure baby’s optimum health.

The Health Home Workbook

A healthy home is one that’s free of toxins and stocked with natural materials that are as good for the body as they are soothing for the spirit. The Healthy Home Workbook leads the way to creating a space that is friendly to the environment, reflects the owner’s personal style, and won’t break the bank. With the same engaging approach and sophisticated style that makes her a such a popular guest star of HGTV’s Curb Appeal, Kimberly Rider clarifies eco-friendly design and makes recycling chic. Dozens of projects, such as identifying and replacing harmful cleaning
products, caring for pets without chemicals, and choosing furniture and flooring made with sustainable materials, can be completed in a few hours, a day, or over a weekend. Room-by-room health specifics, from mold in the bathroom to electromagnetic fields in the home office, are addressed in a practical way, while informative reference sections help decode chemical additives in everything from bug spray to shampoo, and highlight earth-friendly materials. Gorgeous interior photography shows how to incorporate these healthful habits without sacrificing style. A concealed spiral binding and tabbed sections complete this elegant, handy reference guide. Inspirational and informative, The Healthy Home Workbook is the blueprint for a clean, fresh, and harmonious home.

These 2 books feature photography by Thayer Allyson Gowdy who is a San Francisco-based photographer whose work can be seen in Real Simple, InStyle Home and Health magazines, as well as the book Nest, published by Chronicle Books.

PURCHASING DETAILS:

www.chroniclebooks.com

Success Through Play™ Comments:

Organic Baby: Simple Steps for Health Living

Kimberly has partnered with a very talented San Francisco based photographer Thayer Allyson Gowdy, whose pictures depict happy, healthy babies and children who are exploring their environment and in a natural setting. This book is colorful and bright and an easy read. It features handy tabs which you can use to refer to content easily. The Organic Baby book will educate you about the dangers of chemicals in baby products and empower to you make eco-friendly choices for your baby thus enabling your baby to have the best start in life. Highlights include setting up a healthy nursery, a guide to selecting diapers for your baby (cloth vs disposable table included), selecting an eco-friendly carrier (babywearing), making your own baby food, selecting non-toxic toys, sound developmental advice about selecting shoes, sun protection for your baby, selecting baby bathing and grooming products, as well a variety of useful tips from an experienced mom. We were very pleased to see a reference to babywearing and advice about selecting an eco-friendly carrier.

Latex/Foam Rubber
The author recommends using latex rubber as an alternative to plastics (teethers, mattresses), however, as stated in our previous articles, our team of experts do not recommend that anyone, particularly babies are exposured to latex in any form, because the potential to develop a latex allergy later in life is all too real and can be deadly. Look for organic cotton options instead. In the next edition of this book, we would like to see a more comprehensive Resource Section that is more user friendly. We hope to see it expanded to include organizations such as the EWG and Healthy Car. The EWG offers a searchable database where parents can view how their skin care, baby care products, etc are ranked in terms of safety. Healthy Car is a fantastic organization and offers a “consumer guide to toxic chemicals in cars”. They rank different brands of car seats (and specific models) according to the amount of chemicals that off gas and have recently started to rate various models of cars in terms of toxicity! As for the clothing resources, we would like to see companies such as Walmart and Target included as they offer consumers an organic cotton baby clothing range at unbeatable prices.

Overall, this one of a kind, beautiful book that will offer parents tools that will empower them to make healthy choices for their baby and child.

The Healthy Home Workbook:

Studies have shown that the air quality in our homes can be up to 4 times more polluted than the air outside. We believe that every person deserves to be informed of the dangerous chemicals that lurk in our homes and be taught simple strategies and alternatives for reducing the amount of chemicals so that we lead healthier lives. Eco-style has undergone a huge transformation and you will be amazed by the beautiful eco-friendly options for home decor that are available to you these days!

Kimbery is uniquely qualified to write The Healthy Home Workshop, given her extensive interior eco design background. Kimberly is the owner of Atmosphera, a full-service interior design firm offering a broad range of services & products. They specialize in custom design for homeowners, developers, and real estate professionals.

To view the company’s breathtaking portfolio please click here

This outstanding book will help you turn your home into a eco-friendly haven. The user friendly tabs will take you through every inch of your home, guiding you how to select toxic free alternatives in your home. You will be proud to display this book on your coffee table and don’t be surprised if your guests become fascinated by the wealth of information and tips that lie within the book which are bound to lead into an intereting evening discussion!

Highlights include beautiful images depicting eco-friendly, functional, modern furniture and decor. We were pleased to see the inclusion of ergonomic tips for selecting furniture. Readers will be delighted to be introduced to “recipes” for making your own effective, natural cleaning products that are very cheap to make and are made from items such as baking soda and vinegar that are very safe alternatives to toxic cleaning products as well as natural remedies for controlling insects. We really liked the inclusion of tips to create an organic garden and tips to selecting decks and outdoor play equipment. Overall, this comprehensive book will educate readers about the chemicals that lurk in their homes and provide them with the practical tools to transform their home in a safe and healthy environment for their family.

To learn more please visit:

www.atmospherahome.com

We have chosen to feature Manhattan Toy® as the first article for the month of September 2007 and our 100th article as we have experienced outstanding service from their team. A special thanks goes out to Kathy Fowler, for her assistance with this article.

Manhattan Toy® was founded in 1979 by Francis Goldwyn (grandson of motion picture studio owner Sam Goldwyn). The company pioneered the use of non-traditional fabrics in toy design and introduced delightful new body styles in soft toys. Although Goldwyn is no longer involved in the ownership of Manhattan Toy®, they remain true to his vision of marching to the beat of a different (toy) drum. Manhattan Toy® offers a full range of innovative toys and we have chosen to feature 4 of them today.

Cirque Du Soleil ® Zing-a-Ding™ Rattle

Darling and delightful Zing-a-Ding rattles its way into young hands and hearts. Soothing sounds and bold colors will fascinate baby for hours on end. Let your dreams take flight!
Dimensions: 6” H
Age: 3m+

NooBoo™ Ball

Bold, bright and rewarding to baby’s developing motor skills, this multi-activity ball is made with high-quality fabrics – stretch nylon, corduroy, fleece, terry cloth and satin ribbons – to invite tactile exploration. Stimulating young ears are crinkle paper, rattles and a squeaker.
Dimensions: 5″ diameter
Age: 6m+

Cirque Du Soleil® Duolido™

Zany and kooky Duolido gallops its way into young minds and imaginations. This two-headed character with bendable legs, necks and magnetic feet is sure to ignite limitless creativity and imaginative play. Let your dreams take flight!
Dimensions: 10″ H
Age: 12m+

Lacing Quilt™

Lacing Quilt™ – Parenting Magazine 2006 Mom-Tested Toys of the Year and Canadian Toy Testing Council 3-Star Award 2006

“Quilters” strengthen their hand-eye coordination while lacing up the two-sided fabric panels. Made of soft felt faced with embroidered decorations, the six panels can be arranged in countless combinations, encouraging problem-solving skills. This item comes with seven color-coordinated laces and stores in a vinyl bag.

Dimensions: 4.5″ H

Age: 3y+

PURCHASING

Visit www.manhattantoy.com to find a retailer in your country. Online shopping is also available .

Australian consumers may be referred to www.kaleidoscope.com.au for
assistance in finding Manhattan Toy® retailers.

Success Through Play™ Comments:

Manhattan Toy® has been very generous with sending us samples of their products and we thank them. We are very impressed with the high quality, multi-sensory, colorful and imaginative toys that Manhattan Toy® offers.

Cirque Du Soleil ® Zing-a-Ding™ Rattle

This colorful well designed Zing-a-Ding™ Rattle will provide baby with auditory stimulation that will encourage her to keep shaking it! The innovative mix of colorful and contrasting designs, patterns, textures and shapes will hold baby’s attention, stimulate her visually and simply delight her. The addition of ribbons will capture your little one’s attention as baby’s are known to be drawn to ribbons and enjoy exploring them. The rattle is lightweight enough for baby’s hands and very easy to grip, making it an ideal first rattle for your little one! When she shakes this rattle, she is learning about her arms in relation to her body (body awareness) and she will gain input into her muscles and joints (feedback) about her arm. She will also have the opportunity to build up her upper limb endurance while shaking the rattle and build up her muscle strength. Add some background music and let your little one shake to the beat with the Zing-a-Ding™ Rattle!

Age: 3m+

NooBoo™ Ball

Our engineer was really impressed with the design of the NooBoo™ ball. This is no ordinary ball! It features 6 mini balls that can move independently, yet make up the sum of the total ball. This means that baby will have the opportunity to rotate each of the balls separately which will provide her with hours of fun and enjoyment. While baby is exploring this ball, she will receive a variety of tactile stimulation as the surfaces of the mini balls are covered with different textures. The addition of the ribbons between the mini balls will delight your little one. The ball will provide your little one with auditory stimulation as not only does it have a rattle inside of it but 2 of the mini balls feature crinkle paper which make a delightful sound when baby squeezes the ball. In addition, 2 of the mini-balls will make a squeaking sound when squeezed and baby will be encouraged to keep exploring as she hears this sound! Squeezing and exploring the mini balls will allow baby the opportunity to work on her fine motor skills and allow her an opportunity to strengthen her hand muscles! When baby is older, she will enjoy rolling the ball on the floor to you and then later throwing it and catching it, making this toy truly versatile. The multi-sensory NooBoo™ ball is a winner with us!

Age: 6m+

Cirque Du Soleil® Duolido™

Duolido™ is a fun, bright and colorful creature who will delight your baby and later on, encourage your toddler to explore the world of imaginary play. Babies will love touching his “hair” (ribbons) and will be intrigued by his many legs and bright and contrasting patterns and designs. Your toddler will love twisting his legs into different shapes and positions with the aid of his flexible, magnetic legs and making up interesting stories about the adventures of Duolido™. Your child with have an opportunity to practice his bilateral hand coordination skills while bending his legs and neck into different shapes! He will also learn about motor planning as he has to align the legs at just the right angle in order for the magnets to be attracted! Our panel of experts were delighted when they saw Duolido™ and commented that they used to play with a toy that had bendable legs, many decades ago, but hadn’t seen one like it until now!

Age: 12m+

Lacing Quilt™

Lacing activities such as the Manhattan Toy Lacing Quilt™ offers children a unique opportunity to develop their fine motor skills. The Lacing Quilt™ features adorable reversible designs (fish, rabbit, cat butterfly etc) and contrasting colors which will grab your child’s attention. When a child practices lacing, they have to hold the quilt with their one hand (stabilizer) and use their other hand to lace the quilt, allowing them to work on integrating the 2 sides of their body together (bilateral coordination). This is an important skill to practice because most activities in the classroom require excellent bilateral hand skills (cutting, drawing, writing etc). Lacing provides your child with an opportunity to practice his eye hand coordination, which will later enable him to copy from the blackboard, and play a variety of sports! In order to lace, one needs to be able to have a good pincer grasp and thus lacing will help your child to develop a good pincer grasp which is essential for good hand writing skills later on. The task of lacing will provide your child an opportunity to improve his motor planning and improve his upper extremity coordination. Overall, this is a fantastic activity for both your son or daughter.

Age: 3y+

PARENT AND BABY/CHILD FEEDBACK:

Our “test” panel of babies and children couldn’t get enough of each of the above toys and the parents were “truly amazed that each of the toys above captured their baby/child’s attention for an extended period of time”. The parents exclaimed: “we usually buy the latest tech gadgets for our babies and children, but this has really taught us that the simple toys are the best ones”. Well said!

To view the Manhattan Toy® Catalog online, please visit www.manhattantoy.com

We will be highlighting the Dress up Pup™ and NooBoo Pound a Sound™ during the month of November and featuring additional Manhattan Toy® products during February 2008. Stay tuned!