Rugged Idea - A Blanket With No Boundaries

We have found yet another "Parenting Essential" for you - the Rugged Idea Blankets. These awesome blankets are made from Rip-Stop Nylon and Fleece - making them durable, cozy (yet lightweight), and water/wind proof! They come in 3 sizes: small (changing pad), medium (perfect for your stroller) or large (great for a double stroller).

We own the Rugged Idea Medium sized Blanket and absolutely love it! It has ties, so that it can be tied to our stroller in a moments notice, and is lightweight and compact enough that we can carry it with us wherever we go! It has gone to the park with us, watched fireworks with us (we sat on it), and covered our legs when we got chilly.

Fall is approaching, and the possibilities are endless! Cover a stroller so your little one is blocked from the wind/rain and warmth is locked in. Or, use it when wearing your baby to help protect your little one from the elements. Use it to sit on in the park, to cover up infant carriers, or as a mat to play on in public places.

These blankets are great - no matter the season, no matter the activity - and are a new favorite for us!

Go HERE to get yours, now!

PS - Don't forget that great $100 Giveaway that we have going on! What would you spend your $100 on?

Sleepy Wrap Giveaway!!

We have paired together with Sleepy Wrap to offer you our HANDS DOWN favorite sling/wrap - The sleepy wrap.

For more information, you can visit www.sleepywrap.com. This wrap is awesome and keeps your child snug and can be worn in a variety of ways. To see what else we had to say about it, go HERE.

This sling is great for newborns, and can hold larger toddlers. ONE winner will receive a Sleepy Wrap in their choice of color. To enter to win, the commenter must visit www.sleepywrap.com and come back here and leave a comment, telling us the color name of the sling you'd like to receive, your name, and where you're from. Please make sure you leave your email address as well.

Good Luck!


For more great giveaways, go here.

Best Of...Babywearing 2008

CARRIER BRAND: Sleepy Wrap
CARRIER STYLE: Wrap
EASE OF USE ( 1TO 10): 8
FABRIC CHOICE (COLOR/STYLE/FEEL) (1 TO 10): 8.5
COMFORT LEVEL (1 TO 10): 10
OVERALL DESIGN OF PRODUCT (1 TO 10): 10
COST: $33.95
WHERE TO BUY: Sleepy Wrap
FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: We loved the adjustability and softness of this product. Two different people that are completely different sizes can share this wrap, and it will work wonderfully as it can be customized easily to fit anyone.
LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: We can’t really think of anything!
OTHER COMMENTS/SUGGESTIONS: This wrap also is GREAT for being outdoors and doing lots of walking, etc. Very snug, very wonderful.


CARRIER BRAND: Hotslings - Everyday Collection
CARRIER STYLE: Pouch
EASE OF USE ( 1TO 10): 9
FABRIC CHOICE (COLOR/STYLE/FEEL) (1 TO 10): 10
COMFORT LEVEL (1 TO 10): 8
OVERALL DESIGN OF PRODUCT (1 TO 10): 8
COST: $48.00
WHERE TO BUY: Hotslings.com
FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: We LOVED the large selection of prints. It’s like an awesome new accessory!
LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: The sizing. Depending on your size and body type, the sizing can be a little off. We’d love to see a new sizing chart.
OTHER COMMENTS/SUGGESTIONS: We adored the look of this sling. Very chic, machine washable, and a beautiful print! And, as will all of the Hotslings, they offer leg padding for your infant’s comfort.


CARRIER BRAND: Hotslings - Designer collection
CARRIER STYLE: Pouch
EASE OF USE ( 1TO 10): 9
FABRIC CHOICE (COLOR/STYLE/FEEL) (1 TO 10): 9
COMFORT LEVEL (1 TO 10): 8
OVERALL DESIGN OF PRODUCT (1 TO 10): 8
COST: $60.00
WHERE TO BUY: Hotslings.com
FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: Very cute and fresh print.
LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: Sizing Chart.
OTHER COMMENTS/SUGGESTIONS:



CARRIER BRAND: Hotslings - Reversible Collection
CARRIER STYLE: Pouch
EASE OF USE ( 1TO 10): 9
FABRIC CHOICE (COLOR/STYLE/FEEL) (1 TO 10): 7 - would love to see more choices for the reversible slings. (Especially some of the prints they already carry, but made into reversible slings)
COMFORT LEVEL (1 TO 10): 8
OVERALL DESIGN OF PRODUCT (1 TO 10): 8
COST: $60.00
WHERE TO BUY: Hotslings.com
FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: We liked the fact that one sling could be turned inside out and reused. This was perfect for casual wear or more dressier settings. Plus, if one side gets a little spot on it (before you can get home to wash it), turn it inside out and it still looks fabulous!
LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: Sizing chart.
OTHER COMMENTS/SUGGESTIONS: Wish there was as big of a selection in prints as their other collection, but still great.


CARRIER BRAND: Hotslings - Organic Collection
CARRIER STYLE: Pouch
EASE OF USE ( 1TO 10): 9
FABRIC CHOICE (COLOR/STYLE/FEEL) (1 TO 10): 7
COMFORT LEVEL (1 TO 10): 8
OVERALL DESIGN OF PRODUCT (1 TO 10): 8
COST: $50.00
WHERE TO BUY: Hotslings.com
FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: It’s made of organic material and is still the same trusted Hotslings design!
LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: Sizing Chart.
OTHER COMMENTS/SUGGESTIONS: We want to be earth-friendly and chic, too! We’d love to see more fun colors/prints in the organic line!



CARRIER BRAND: Modmum
CARRIER STYLE: Pouch
EASE OF USE ( 1TO 10): 9
FABRIC CHOICE (COLOR/STYLE/FEEL) (1 TO 10): 8
COMFORT LEVEL (1 TO 10): 8
OVERALL DESIGN OF PRODUCT (1 TO 10): 7
COST: $64.00
WHERE TO BUY: Modmum.com
FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: The funky designs - and reversible!
LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: This sling is not for the really really petite. The smallest size offered is still a little extra roomy for the super tiny ladies.
OTHER COMMENTS/SUGGESTIONS: We’d love to see more design options! Does not have leg padding.


CARRIER BRAND: Maya
CARRIER STYLE: Lightly Padded Ring Sling
EASE OF USE ( 1TO 10): 7
FABRIC CHOICE (COLOR/STYLE/FEEL) (1 TO 10): 6COMFORT LEVEL (1 TO 10): 7
OVERALL DESIGN OF PRODUCT (1 TO 10): 7
COST: $55.95
WHERE TO BUY: Mayawrap.com
FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: We liked that sling was adjustable in two different places.
LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: You had to put your baby in and then, it took some time to adjust it properly.
OTHER COMMENTS/SUGGESTIONS: We also weren’t a fan of the fabric selection. They were pretty in a very earthy way, but for those of us that want to sport something more fashionable WHILE carrying our babies, there wasn’t much to choose from.


CARRIER BRAND: Infantino - 6-in-1-rider
CARRIER STYLE: Ergo Baby Carrier
EASE OF USE ( 1TO 10): 3 - The directions left a lot to be desired, and there were an awful lot of snaps and buckles.
FABRIC CHOICE (COLOR/STYLE/FEEL) (1 TO 10): 1
COMFORT LEVEL (1 TO 10): 4
OVERALL DESIGN OF PRODUCT (1 TO 10): 2
COST: Ranges from $15 - $25
WHERE TO BUY: Walmart and Amazon.com
FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: It was fairly inexpensive.
LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: If the snaps are weak (as ours must have been) - even though it was brand new - and your baby is put into the carrier, you could hear some snaps popping. You better be ready to catch them.
OTHER COMMENTS/SUGGESTIONS: We don’t recommend this product.

Babywearing 101 - Part II

When it comes to babywearing, there are literally thousands of choices. For newbies, the choices can be a little daunting. Below, are the basic types of slings:

Pouch Sling
A pouch sling is a piece of fabric which is sewn together at the ends (making a tube) and folded to form a pocket. The “tube” of fabric is folded in on itself and then draped over the shoulder (putting one arm and head inside the “hole”) like a sash. The baby then can sit in the pouch in the front or side (and sometimes, back). These slings are easy to use and great for slipping on and off. However, be sure to measure well for the sizing, because if you choose the wrong size it will most likely not be adjustable. Also, you and your partner will most likely need two different slings (unless you are the exact same size). Because pouch slings are not adjustable, it can be difficult to get a snug carrying position, especially one that fits tightly against your body.
Examples: Modmum, Hotslings


Ring Sling
This is a long piece of fabric where one end is attached to two rings and the other end is threaded through them, forming a “sash” of sorts. The fabric creates a “pocket” and the different edges of the fabric can be pulled tighter, to create a more snug hold. Some ring slings feature padding in the shoulder (so the fabric doesn’t dig in) and in the edges (or rails - where baby’s legs are) for extra comfort. Ring slings are good for vertical distribution of weight, and are quick to get on and off. The ‘tail’ material can be used for discreet breastfeeding, and can even be wrapped around the ring if becomes uncomfortable. With a ring sling, many parents can share the same sling (except in large size differences).
Examples: Maya Ring Sling

Wrap Sling
This is a long, stretchy piece of fabric which you wrap and tie around your body so that your baby is held securely. With wraps, you generally tie the wrap around your body first and then slip your baby/toddler in. Wraps are great for distributing weight across your body as you can wrap between your shoulders. This wrap is incredibly versatile and can be worn by parents in a variety of sizes.
Examples: Sleepy Wrap

Backpacks and Soft Carriers
The backpack carrier is basically a carrier with straps that go over the shoulders, much like a backpack. Baby can be worn in the front or back. Some backpack carriers are even equipped with neck support for infants.
Examples

**Would you like your baby carrier listed as an example? Contact me (see right - buttons) for more information.

A New Website

For all of you readers that love First Impressions, be sure to also check out our newly launched ParentFish blog at: http://parentfish.blogspot.com/

You can also reach us by going to www.parentfish.com and clicking on the button that says "BabbleFish."

Parenfish.com is a Resource for Western Ky parents (and grandparents, too).

However, regardless of where you live, you'll love our blog. It's kind of like this one but more geared to parenting children of all ages, all across the board, including some features spotlighting Home, Health, Gardening, Outdoors, Cooking, Sports, Fashion, and so much more. So, be sure to check it out and watch as it grows!

Babywearing: Intro

Babywearing is a constant theme in nature: Kangaroos, Gorillas, Koala Bears - and even some human cultures. In addition to the obvious freeing up of hands that is involved with babywearing, wearing your little one has many other advantages as well. According to Hunziker and Barr in their article in Pediatrics, babies who are carried cry on average 43% less overall and 54% less in the evening hours. And, according researchers such as Barr, Brazelton, Lee, and LeVine, in cultures where babies are carried almost continuously, babies cry much less than those in non-carrying cultures. Additionally, while in a sling or pouch, babies spend more time in a “quiet, alert state” when carried - which is ideal for learning. When carried, your child sees the world from your perspective and can experience the world fully, yet feel safe and secure. Not only does your child experience the world, but studies have shown that they bond with the person carrying them and often become independent at an earlier age.

So, what is babywearing? Babywearing is the term used to describe wearing your baby. Many babywearing devices have been constructed that will allow you to hold your baby in a variety of positions, depending on their stage of life.

Is it too late for me to wear my child? The best ages to wear your child are from infancy to early toddler-hood.

How do I do this? You’ll need a baby sling/pouch/wrap. Later, I’ll go over each type in more detail, so be sure to check back.

What types of activities can I do while wearing my child? You can clean, cook (please be very careful while using sharp and hot objects), hike, shop, play with children, craft, read, and a lot more because your hands will be free. We geocache with ours!

Where can I get my own babywearing “device”? It depends on the type that you want, as there are many different types. Please check back soon for the in-depth article on types of baby carriers and our recommendations for each (and where to buy)!

Sleepy Wrap and Geocaching

Before L was born, Steven and I enjoyed an activity called geocaching - an activity in which you use a GPS system to find caches, or mini- treasures, located at specific waypoints across the globe. It was a fun and incredibly cheap (FREE) activity that combined exploring, physical activity, and treasures. What's not to love?

Unfortunately, having a small child can sometimes put a bit of a damper on the geocaching experience - especially when it involves walking for extended periods of time and up steep hills and loose gravel, walking through poison ivy, and braving things like: creeks, ticks, mosquitoes, and the like! We had thought that we'd have to give up geocaching, unless of course we lined up a babysitter - we had never realized how a simple Sleepy Wrap could change our whole experience.

The Sleep Wrap is a stretchy and soft baby wrap that you methodically tie around your body to create a "nook" for your child. Unlike other wraps, the Sleepy Wrap is not only comfortable, but it can also be worn for many positions and different sized children - from infant to toddler! Oh, and the goodness doesn't stop yet: This is the ONLY wrap I have found so far that will fit both my 5'1" and 87 lb frame AND my almost 6' non-87 lb husband's frame! I love that when I get tired, I can switch the wrap with my husband, and he can wear her for a while. Or, when she stays with her Mimi or Granny - it'll fit them, too!

Sleepy Wrap is wonderful, no matter what you like to do. It's appropriate and comfortable for so many activities! In fact, you might want to try out some new activities once you get your own Sleepy Wrap.

Click here to buy your own Sleepy Wrap, available in many colors.


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Potette plus

Summer is here - and so are long road-trips, sports games, camping, and boating - all of which can put a damper in pottying, whether trained or not. There are a lot of options out there for mini potties, and even training potties, but most make it hard to travel with and stow discreetly when not in use (who really wants an extra potty just laying in the floorboard - regardless of how many times Dora's face appears on it or how vigorously you scrubbed it clean??). Here's a new option for you, though: 2 in 1 Potette plus by Kalencom.

The Potette plus has a contoured seat and a sturdy, balanced base which will help your child feel comfortable and secure (meaning he/she will actually use it). The lightly scented liners can be secured to the potty and will hold up to 5 ounces of liquid. When finished, just tie the handles together and discard the liner (much like a disposable diaper). Simply wipe down the seat, fold it up, and it can fit in your purse/diaper bag/beach bag or under a car seat.

At home, this nifty seat can transform into a trainer seat for the "big potty." Simply fold the "legs" so they are completely out and a click is heard. Position the seat towards the front of the adult potty, and you're good to go - the nonslip legs will ensure comfort and stability.

Potette plus would be a great choice while you're out and about. And hey, I can think of more than one occasion where I wished I had one handy...for me.

It should be noted that the seats are good for 50 lbs and under. If for some reason you find yourself in need of a bathroom...and fast...please just keep that in mind. (Don't say I didn't warn you...)

Mabel's Labels

Whether you have decided to begin organizing your life, or you simply need help keeping track of what's what to make life easier, Mabel's Labels will have something you need. Pictured above, is a label from the Canister And Spice collection - all of which are dishwasher, microwave, and UV safe!



Next, are the Classic Stickies, which are awesome for sippy cups, diaper bags, toys, lunchboxes, and anything else you can think of! These little guys are also dishwasher, microwave, UV, and kid - proof. I love the idea that you can put these darlings on virtually anything your child owns, and it will STAY there - no more worrying about sticky or white residues where the sticker should've been...and no more worrying about which one is which!
Another favorite are Mabel's Tag-Mates. Simply peel and place the specially designed stickers (they miraculously withstand washing and drying) on the clothing tag and VOILA! Nobody will have to guess which pair of shorts belongs to Suzie or try to decipher marker bled-out initials.

Regardless of your children's ages, these are great for: Daycare. Play-Dates. Siblings. Stay-overs. School.

You name it, they've got it covered: Check out more labels and collections at www.Mabel.ca

Parenting 101 Part VII

*Received these in an email. They were not credited. If you are the creator/owner or know who is, please let me know so I can credit them!

My Mommy's Tote

Note: This isn't a repeat post, but I forgot to include the discount code before! Check it out below!!

Imagine a light-weight tote that could hold each of your children's medical documents, important papers, and those magazine pages you ripped out of a parenting magazine 3 months ago. Imagine a place where you knew you could put your children's things...and it wouldn't take up much room - or fuss. Imagine My Mommy's Tote - a lightweight, 9.75"x12.5"x3" tote that could hold it all. And more.

Each tote can hold 200 papers, and comes with pre-printed plastic dividers - which will hold up quite nicely...even to spills. My Mommy's Tote comes in pink/brown or blue/brown.

Wouldn't it be nice to have all of their papers ready at your fingertips whenever you need them? The answer is yes. YES it would.

Discount: 15% off all purchases PLUS 15% off shipping & handling when you enter First Impressions during checkout.

Parenting 101 Part VI

*Received these in an email. They were not credited. If you are the creator/owner or know who is, please let me know so I can credit them!

Parenting 101 Part V

*Received these in an email. They were not credited. If you are the creator/owner or know who is, please let me know so I can credit them!

Baby Light & Clip

I remember when Baby Girl was just home from the hospital - her nails were long and paper thin. But, holding her hands for very long resulted in a fit and flailing - in only a moment, I'd managed to snip a bit of skin with the clippers. And, I was finished. No more fingernail clippers.

I cringed at the thought of having to cut her nails, and I would sheepishly ask someone else to do it. Occasionally, I'd slip into her room with a file as she slept. Regardless, the task of trimming her nails seemed daunting.

That was, until Baby Light and Clip came into our lives. This nifty invention illuminates the nail and shows where the fine baby nails meet the skin. It also shows any rough edges that should be clipped to keep baby from scratching themselves. And - SAFETY GUARDS! - to keep you from nicking precious skin!

Because it has a built in light, you can use it during the day, or at night while baby's sleeping. Anytime, really!

Finally!

Learn More.

Bebe Belay

It seems like once you have a little one, their "diaper bag" just keeps getting bigger and bigger - a large supply of bottles, formula, burp-cloths AND bibs, a change of clothes, baby medicines JUST IN CASE, a few extra toys to keep them occupied...and the list goes on and on...

But, what if I told you that I found an innovative product that took up almost NO room and could grow with your child? What if I told you, I had found a pacifier keeper, bib, and connector clips (to keep pairs as pairs) ALL IN ONE?

Well, I have: Bebe Belay. And, you are most definitely going to want to check them out.

Parenting 101 Part IV

*Received these in an email. They were not credited. If you are the creator/owner or know who is, please let me know so I can credit them!

Parenting 101 Part III

*Received these in an email. They were not credited. If you are the creator/owner or know who is, please let me know so I can credit them!

Parenting 101 Part II

*Received these in an email. They were not credited. If you are the creator/owner or know who is, please let me know so I can credit them!

Momager Calling Cards

It always happens at the most unexpected times: You meet someone and connect with and you want to see them again. And, let's face it, we always procrastinate and get each other's contact info when we are about to part ways. Why? I'm not sure...but that's how it almost always goes down...or at least for me.

And, really...who wants to be digging to the bottom of their purse (or huge diaper bag) for a scrap piece of paper and an ink pen while your children are screaming and clinging to your arms like monkeys in a barrel and you are doing your best not to pee your pants - all the while knowing you are already 10 min late for your next appointment (if you left RIGHT NOW)???

INSTEAD, try these Momager cards by Paperlicious. (Don't worry dads, they have cool designs for you too!!) Each card is customized with the information you want - add messenger IDs, emails, phone numbers, addresses...whatever you want! AND - add your kids' names, so your new friend will remember exactly who you are and whether she does really want to schedule a playdate with your little devil child angel.

And, guess what!

ALL Readers can get a 10% discount by going to Paperlicious and entering this code: 08ISGREAT

and...
One lucky reader will receive a box of 50 "Momager" cards (Dads - feel free to enter!). To enter, please check out the Momager cards and let us know which style is your favorite and why you'd put them to the best use (aka why you should win). Please also leave your NAME and EMAIL ADDRESS.
Winner will be drawn next Monday!

Parenting 101

**All images are from an email I received, I do not know where they originate from. If you are the creator or know who is, please email me so I can give credit.