Hear the drum roll? It’s that time again! Top products on the month! Below is a list of some of the hottest Baby Trend products that parents are loving. What are you loving this month?
The Babies R Us Bear Hug Bouncer provides the ultimate in infant comfort. The bouncer includes a plush sling seat and removable soft headrest for relaxed fun and a removable toy bar with 3 interactive toys, including a rattle and 2 crinkles. The electronic music center plays 5 gentle melodies and 3 soothing sounds and offers 2 volume controls and 1 calming vibration. The cradle seat is machine washable. Require 3 C batteries(not included).
Expedition ELX Travel System—Everglade
The Baby Trend Expedition ELX Travel System Stroller in Everglade is the answer to all your active daily needs. This all-terrain jogger will take you wherever you need to go in style. The Baby Trend Expedition ELX Travel System in Everglade comes complete with the Baby Trend Flex Loc Infant Car Seat, an industry leader in safety and ease of use. The Baby Trend Expedition ELX has an adjustable handle for parents of all size, a large storage basket, a large ratcheting canopy with peek-a-boo window, and a swivel wheel for extra maneuverability in stores or on a stroller. Locking the swivel wheel turns this stroller into a fully functional jogger and the 12 rear wheels help tackle any path. This model also includes the upgraded Baby Trend Parent Tray with two cup holders and a covered compartment for cell phones, but new this year is the addition of two mp3 speakers so that you and baby can listen to your favorite tunes.
Sit N Stand Ultra—Liberty
The NEW Sit-N-Stand Ultra accepts an infant car seat in either the front or back position for a more versatile way of traveling with your little ones. Includes two additional removable cup holders, and has all the great features of our traditional Sit N’ Stand™
The Baby Trend Crosstown Stroller in Daisy fashion features plenty of space for your little one and all the necessary items you need to bring along. This stylish stroller offers comfort and safety, with features like the five-point safety harness to ensure your child stays safely in his or her seat, and an extra large shade canopy with a peek-a-boo window that offers shade on sunny days. A parent tray with two deep cup holders keeps items safe, and the red buttons on the handle allow you to adjust the height for comfortable strolling. Large wheels and independent rear brakes allow you to easily control the stroller, and a multi-position, reclining seat with head support provides comfort for your baby while strolling. The stroller is even car-seat compatible for convenience and can be combined with the Daisy Infant Car Seat to transform into a travel system.
Do you look for a specific design or color when shopping for strollers? Share with us on Facebook or Twitter, or even in the comments below!
It’s nice to be able to take a moment for ourselves, from our loving kids and enjoy a meal by ourselves or just get gussied up. Sometimes, we get those chances in life when we have can enjoy more than a moment…yes, I’m talking about a weekend getaway! Alright so even if your kid or baby has to come with you, you can still make it a relaxing trip. Don’t believe us?
Your Weekend Getaway Starts Now
Grab your bag and watch your fun weekend unfurl. The trick to enjoying your weekend getaway is knowing what to take with you.
- Face Wipes
It’s so easy to get ready when you can wipe your face clean in seconds or less. After some time with the family in the sun or sweating it up jogging through the park with your snazzy jogger, take out a wipe (the ones that come in resealable pouches are the easiest to travel with) and your sweat is gone in a flash. - Moisturizing Spray
A simple and light moisturizing face mist can help replenish your skin after a long day with the kids or even traveling to your destination via plane, car, or train. A refreshing mist will work as a pick-me up and help stay away from that long-travel-sticky-skin. - Heat Protectant Spray/SPF Lotion
You may not think about your hair when going out in the sun but a heat protectant spray that is often used before applying heat to your hair can be a great spray to have on hand. If you plan on going to the beach or a hot and dry location, a quick spritz of the heat protectant spray followed by a comb can help keep you strands conditioned and safe.
Speaking of heat, don’t forget to pack some sprayable SPF lotion. Instead of having to put on thick lotion in the heat, simply spray it on. It’ll be useful for the rest of your family too! - Clothes?
Yes, clothes! Dresses are the BEST packing buddy because you can pack as many as you want. Instead of packing 2-3 pieces for one outfit, packing a dress is an outfit all on its own. - Face Makeup
If you don’t want to go through a whole routine of putting on makeup, add a little color by brushing on some bronzer. This not only helps contour your face but it adds depth and color, especially if you pair it with a swipe of some beautiful blush.
Have some time away from the kids to enjoy the town with your grown-up loved ones? Kick your makeup up a notch by adding a quick color to your lids and blending it in to create a smoky look.
You don’t need much to enjoy some time with your kids or even on your own! Although we only started a small list of things that can help you enjoy your vacation a little more, be on the lookout for travel friendly baby gear to help ease your travel woes.
What is your MUST-HAVE travel accessory? Share with us on Facebook or Twitter, or even in the comments below!
Sources
Last week we covered beauty from the outside in, using makeup and tips on how to feel better with a dash of lipstick and a brush of blush. This week we will go into how to feel good from the inside out! Sleepless nights can wear on the skin and on our bodies which can often lead to unhealthy meal choices.
So what can you do to retain that pre-baby glow your skin had? Try new foods that are enriched with vitamins and nutrients. Nutritious meals can be easily prepared ahead of time when baby is sleeping or when you slip away to enjoy some kitchen time.
Great Foods For Glowing Skin
- We’ve all heard how great fish is, but do we know how? Salmon is filled with omega-3 fatty acids that keep your skin oil levels in check helping to reduce breakouts and add glow to your skin. WebMD also points out that omega-3s can boost heart health and lower triglycerides—those nasty fats.
- Are you nuts about nuts? We sure are. Nuts like walnuts and pistachios are a great way of lubricating the skin from the inside, out. Walnuts especially nourish and moisturize the skin protecting against dryness. Another skin hydrator? Avocados! Who knew those mushy green fruits could be so filled with natural oils, vitamin C, E and other anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties? All around goodness.
- Water! I know what you’re thinking: duh! Remembering to drink enough water can be hard, especially when we’re spread thin. Water hydrates your vessels, especially under your eyes so those dark circles will be less prominent with each drink from your water bottle.
Mix those ingredients into a quick salad or a sandwich and you’re good to go! Having cooked ingredients prepared beforehand can save a lot of time when it comes to actual preparation. If you are used to having your baby near you, consider putting her in a bouncer or a high chair nearby so she can learn from your speedy cooking ways.
What is your most favorite nutritious food? Share with us on Facebook or Twitter, or even in the comments below!
Sources
Gearing Up For September Safety Month
September 2012 is Baby and Child Safety Month! Let’s all get together and educate each other and other caregivers on the importance of child safety.
Raising a child takes care and knowledge to ensure they are raised in the best environment possible and both new and experienced parents can attest to that! This upcoming month will be a great month for all sorts of parents to share their experiences and learn from professionals who will provide tips and best practices when it comes to traveling with your baby, jogging with your baby, or simply hanging out.
Stay Tuned with Baby Trend for Upcoming Tips and Giveaways in support of Child Safety!
Please feel free to share your thoughts on child safety in the comments below, pin photos of you baby to Baby Trend, or share with us on our Facebook, and Twitter! And check out Babytrend.com to be inspired by some cute baby photos!
Ways and Examples for Taking the BEST Baby Photos
bryanruppphotographyblog.com
Kids and babies are the best subjects in photography! Aside from being adorable, young subjects are natural with unbiased emotion helping the photographer take the most organic pictures possible. Some of us parents however, are more comfortable with our camera phone than a real camera and are better off drawing stick figures than snapping photos.
Whether school started or is just around the corner, parents will be lining up to take photos of their kids as they head off to their first day of school! All is well and not to fret! The below tips will help you capture their cuteness to take your best photos possible:
- Who: Think of Your Subject
Your subject is most likely a baby or a toddler no taller than three feet. Get down to their level to best illustrate their perspective and of course get a close up of that chubby cheeked face. The closer you get, the sooner you may realize that your baby prefers
their “good side” to be shot. Play around with different angles and have fun with your baby with different poses as they play with their toys and blankets. - What…exactly are you taking a picture of?
Are you taking a picture of your kids face, their feet, their hands…what exactly are you taking a picture of? A blogger on brighthub finds that “taking close up photos of your baby’s face will capture more detail and emotion and will have lovely results.” Think of the specificities of your photo and your subject and focus on capturing its delicate nature and character. - When: Note the time of day and the use of light
Easily call yourself a professional photographer by creating beautiful photos with the right timing. By timing we mean, you won’t get a good photo 10 minutes before your kid’s naptime. Use natural light in the morning when your toddler or baby is most awake to get the best response of smiles and even cries. - Where…are you taking your photos?
Speaking of lighting, be sure to consider when you are taking your photos. If you are taking your photos outside in the middle of the day, try to keep your kids in good light and present their best side—when they want to have photos of them taken. - Why…are you taking photos of your adorable kids?
Because they are so darn cute!
Kids grow up fast so be sure to capture them at all stages!
What is one of your favorite photos of your children?
Please feel free to share your photography and tips in the comments below, pin your photos to Baby Trend, or share with us on our Facebook, and Twitter! And check out Babytrend.com to be inspired by some cute baby photos!
Sources:
brighthub.com
What to Consider When Choosing a Name for Your Baby
In this day and age, celebrities have started a trend of choosing the most unique names for their children. This trend lives on among everyday people who decide to pick names that their child will enjoy over traditional ones!
Gone are the days when soon to-be parents had just few names to choose from: John or Edward. Now non-traditional and cross-cultural names like Aviana and Deva are coming up front.
Pretend Like You are Changing Your Name
According to UK babycentre, 35 percent of parents said that choosing a
name was one of the best parts of pregnancy and most parents said it was a fun thing to do, but a struggle at times. When thinking of names for your baby, you and your partner may disagree on a few things but the best way to keep things simple and sane is to pretendthat you are the baby. Additionally, UK babycentre also found that four out of ten parents established ground rules in the naming process, which might help. If you propose a name like Fighter Pilot because you have an undying love for aviation and your partner shoots you down, there might be a reason why. Putting your love for planes aside, how would you feel if your name was Fighter Pilot? At the office, on a resume, at school? It might be cool in some scenarios but names are a part of the first impression individuals have on others. Make use of those ground rules you and your partner established to come up with a name you and your baby will love.
Spice Up a Traditional Name
So you’re in love with traditional names but want to give your baby a fresh and unique name too? There is an answer to this dilemma: creativity. If you absolutely love the name Karen for example, think of ways to change it up that can be unique. Changing the letters but keeping a name phonetically rooted can be a great way to change a name i.e. Karyn or Caren.
Oldie, but a Goodie
Sometimes, the old names are just the best ones, especially in their simplicity and age. While all other kids have unique names, perhaps the once popular nature of your child’s name will make it retro enough to be cool—not that it really matters as long as you love your baby’s name and of course that they will come to love it as well.
Last but not least, check out this cute infographic on fun names:
What’s one name you’ve always loved or thought was the craziest?
Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below, pin to Baby Trend, or share images of your kid with us on our Facebook, and Twitter! And check out Babytrend.com to be inspired by some names of our collections!
For a list of fun celebrity baby names, visit babyzone.com.
Sources:
Ways to Repurpose Old Items, and Find New Items to Design Your Baby’s Nursery
You now have in your arsenal information about financially preparing for your baby’s arrival and cutting expenses when baby is out in the world. Now, have you prepared a nursery stocked with all the necessary items without breaking the piggy bank?
No need to worry! Nurseries can be designed to help you save money and exercise your creativity. Creating a stylish and wallet-savvy nursery is all about repurposing things from around the home.
Traditional Necessities
Even when trying to save money, there are certain necessities you just cannot dodge; the obvious being a crib and crib sheets. Gathering the bare bones of your nursery can be done frugally and easily in a few ways:
1. Borrow from your friends
Make sure that the furniture you borrow from your friends or family are still up to code or meet safety requirements. If their child is now 20 years old, then so is the crib you’re borrowing! Compare it to new cribs to see how it stands up.
2. Scout garage sales
The same applies to garage sales. Ask the 
previous owner about their rocking chair or dresser and learn of its story, while getting to know the people of your neighborhood!
A great location to scout garage sales can be on your neighborhood bulletin board (if you live in a small town) or even look at a place like Craig’s list. If technology doesn’t become you and bulletin boards aren’t your thing, you will most likely see signs all over town for garage sales, all you have to do is keep those eyes open!
3. Convert!
When looking for baby furniture, think long-term! Finding furniture that is convertible and can grow with baby will save you from looking for furniture’s time and time again as baby goes through the developmental stages.
Along the lines of longevity and not having to be hard at work year after year, consider painting your nursery a gender neutral color, especially if you plan on having more babies.
Never Before Seen Nurseries
Repurposing furniture and knick knacks from around the house has never been more fun. Painting and decorating your baby’s nursery is like coloring really large Easter eggs. Grab those low VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) pastel paints and let your creative senses lead you!
1. Develop a theme
http://www.livebeautyfullblog.com
Zoo animals! Birds! Airplanes! Whichever theme you use, find things around the house that catch your eye and can be creatively reused to be incorporated into your home theme.
2. Scavenge
Do you have a bird house that’s just sitting on a counter top? How about a throw that lays idly aside on a couch or guest bed? Gather all those unused or visually pleasing decorations and prepare to put them to good use.
You can even find affordable designs at your local craft store, and often in their $1 bins! Small finds like wooden letters that you can color up with fun designs or a frame that can be used to make a collage are all cute and great ways to spruce up a nursery.
3. Plan
Take those items and hang them on walls to give the nursery some dimension and color. This is a great option for parents whodo not want to paint your walls.
Need Some Inspiration?
Check out these fun nurseries. They may seem intimidating, but a little paint or tissue paper there, and a nail in the wall here can create the same effect on a dime! 
How did you creatively decorate your nursery?
Please feel free to share here in the comments below, pin to Baby Trend your innovative ideas, or share images of your nursery with us on our Facebook, and Twitter!
Sources:
How to prep and save for your soon to arrive baby
According to the Jacob Goldsmith theory, the world is separated into two types of personalities: Type A and Type B. Type A people are generally high-strung or prepared for a better term and type B tend to be easy-going and more laid back than those who fall in type A. Regardless of which category better fits you, there is a certain level of preparedness each type of person should meet as an expecting mother.
Meet the Minimum
Laid back or high strung, the following items will be perfect to get you on your feet and the least bit prepared. If you’re tight on a budget, you can still get everything you need. To get started, borrow clothes from a friend or even visit a consignment store! They’ve been loved but they are sure to be clean! Paying attention to things like Facebook contests on our Baby Trend Facebook page can also help you win some much needed essentials for your baby.
If you aren’t sure how much of what to get for your baby, stock up on the minimum. It might be tempting to stock up on a thousand diapers when they are on sale, but if it doesn’t fit your newborn, all you’re left is a fort built of diapers. Other things you may not need until your baby is a little older are shoes. Socks can be fine at first but if you are jonesing for a pair of tiny cute shoes, quench your desire with one to two pairs. That money can perhaps be better spent on something more necessary, like baby proofing your home! Baby proofing your home is something that needs to be in your pre-baby budget. Not only will baby proofing save on possible medical expenses in the future, but it will keep your curious baby safe! Speaking of, did you know that 35% of parents of 0-2 year olds don’t feel knowledgeable? Don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor, friends, or members of your community to help stay informed!
Seek Transformers
Back to essentials. Every baby needs a place to sleep and a place to be changed. Buying something that can grow with your baby is the best investment an expecting parent can make. Buying a convertible crib like a deluxe nursery center can grow with your baby from a crib, to a playpen, and can even be used as a changing table. The same goes for another essential: the car seat. Getting a car seat for your baby that works for through their growing stages is another great investment, especially when you know your baby will be protected.
Get More Of…
Although it’s best to stick to the minimum of things until you’re narrowed it down to what your baby likes and what complements your baby, there are a few things that you can stock up on. Go to your local warehouse or grocery store during a sale and stock up on things like formula (if you plan on using formula) and wipes or towels. The things you know your baby will burn through (other than diapers) should be well stocked. It’s like keeping an armory of essentials and when something runs out at home base, it won’t take long to re-stock.
What are you stocking up on most for your baby?
Please feel free to share here in the comments below, on our Facebook, and on our Twitter!
Sources:
Great games for Daddy and Baby
Busy or even stay-at-home dads like to do fun things with their little one that is also fun for dad. Below are some great ways for any father to get in some time with their baby or toddler.
Go Fish you Old Maid!
Playing with cards with your young boy or girl can help stimulate their vision with contrasting colors if they are infants. Toddlers can use them to learn letters, numbers, and symbols while Dad sits back and plays cards with his family or buddies. Games we all remember playing like Go Fish! or Old Maid are great to play with your wee one.
groupon.com/24.media.tumblr.com/ecx-images.amazon.com
You’re Out! 
Enjoying card games like Uno or otherwise doesn’t have to be confined to the walls of your home. Weather permitting, go to your neighborhood park and soak in the sun (take care to protect yourself and your child appropriately). Other outdoor activities like going to the petting zoo are a great way for your young boy or girl to interact with animals and learn about how they are different. Understanding the caring nature of animals and how to respect their space is something that can be fun to learn when surrounded by cute animals!
When it comes to understanding and learning, the obvious semi-outdoor activity is going to museums! Check out your neighborhood children’s museum and see what hands on activities are special for that day or if there are any new exhibits that your child would especially enjoy.
Traveling from one place to another or preparing for these play dates can be a daunting task so be sure to take care of yourself Dad, as you’re enjoying time with your baby or toddler, or both! Take advantage of car seats like the FastBack 3-in-1 carseat that grows with your baby. You know they’ll be protected from 22 pounds to 120 pounds in weight!
Utilize the Time
Now that you’re out and about, why not run some errands? Try your best to make it a fun and educational time for your toddler. Taking them with you to the grocery store can be a great time to teach them about nutrition all the while sharing stories about your favorite meals, gatherings, and just communicating with your baby. Your local farmer’s market is another great way to enjoy the outdoors and learn about farming, organic foods, and any other nutritional topics you hold close to your heart.
If your baby or toddler can’t quite walk yet or you’re spending time with a baby and a child, be sure to stroll around with a Sit N Stand Ultra which has plenty of arrangements for your children and places for you keep all things necessary, nearby. Can’t let that binky go too far!
After all these trips, has your car gotten a little dirty? Take your kids to the carwash! They will love to see all the colors and things going on and you can use this opportunity to teach them about car parts and engineering. Again, just kidding! All the soap and sounds can be daunting however and if your child isn’t enjoying any of the aforementioned activities, be sure to have a plan B in hand!
Look to the sources below for more ideas!
Are there games your baby loves to play with their Dad?
Please feel free to share here in the comments below, on our Facebook, and on our Twitter!
Sources:
Fun, silly games to play with your baby to aid development
Go to your local coffee shop and you’ll see mothers and their toddlers both with iPads in their hands. Toys and games went from tree houses and binkies to playing with virtual toys on an electronic tablet. Oh, how times have changed.
According to New York Road Runners (nyrrf.org), almost 25% of children do not participate in any free-time physical activity. Although activity among children seems to have decreased, games have become more developmentally friendly and brain-cell engaging.
Parents can use their e-tablets or even just their hands to play games with their baby to aid their development. Also, be sure to consult your pediatrician for best advice.
Light the Torch
Let the games begin with something small and something fun. At first, newborn babies don’t seem to want to do much of anything but eat and poop. Their brain cells are continuing to develop and their neurons are slowly but surely making connections. Playing developmental games with your baby at any age can help prime those neural pathways.
abcnews.go.com
Peek-A-Boo is a simple game that babies seem to love. When you hide behind your hands after they see your face, your baby literally thinks you’ve disappeared. This is because babies are unable to psychologically grasp the concept of object permanence. Object permanence is the understanding that objects exist—can be seen and heard—even after they are long out of sight. From about birth to two years of age, babies do not understand this. Don’t let this stop you from playing with your baby, they love this game!
Lights, Camera, Interaction!
Go ahead and let your baby’s curiosity guide you. Does she veer toward colorful objects? Shiny things? Take your baby’s cues and hold objects she might be interested in about a foot away from her face. Let her observe and stare. You might find something new yourself!
Toys and random things lying around the house aren’t the only things that can help a baby’s development. Look into your closet to help your baby develop her tactile senses. Have her feel your clothes and even go outside to enjoy the sun by letting her observe at the park or even touch the grass. All while keeping a close watch on your baby, of course!
Mirror, Mirror
Just like their inability to grasp object permanence, babies are unable to understand that who they see in the mirror, is themselves! From birth to three months of age, play with your baby by placing them in a nursery center or bouncer that has toys hanging from the top. Talk to your baby and tap on the mirror to get her to look over. She’ll soon begin to realize that the person in the mirror is her!
These are just a few of the hundreds of baby games you can play with your little one.
Look to the sources below for more ideas!
What are your favorite games to play with your baby?
Please feel free to share here in the comments below, on our Facebook, and on our Twitter!
Sources:
