I think this outdoor hideaway would make a perfect kid’s playroom.  See how it was built over at design*sponge.

When it comes to your baby, there’s just no such thing as Too Much Information. That’s why we love this convenient notepad that helps keep the lines of communication open between you and your babysitter or nanny — whether you’re dashing off to work or enjoying the occasional date night.

The Babysitter Notepad is simple, functional, and provides a quick reference guide for both emergency information and everyday matters. It lets you leave instructions as to what your kids are allowed to eat and watch, what time is bedtime, and any other special instructions your caretaker might need to know.

Best of all, at only $5 it’s a super affordable way to get organized —and buy a little peace of mind while you’re at it. 

Ali Wing, baby product expert, is author of giggle guide to baby gear and founder of giggle.  Follow Ali on Twitter and the Giggle Fan Page on Facebook.

via The Cradle

Getting ready for a new baby arrival can cost a lot of money. Whether you have a specific budget to stick to, or just want to stretch your dollar further, there are many easy ways to economize without depriving your baby of a thing.

Remember, new babies need lots of stuff, but not everything has to be purchased right away. Many purchases can be put off until six months or even a year after your baby is born. And of course, some purchases can be skipped altogether.

One thing to remember when you’re shopping is that the ticket price is only part of the equation. Sometimes spending more in the beginning gives you a much better value in the long run.

To start some new baby money saving tips include:

• Spending more in the beginning may offer a better value in the long run.
• Consider products that can grow with your child, such as a convertible car seat or a multi-stage crib.
• Be aware of safety issues with hand-me-downs. (See Product Recalls)
• Need a changing table? Just add a removable changing tray to a dresser.
• Skip the bedding set – all you need is a crib sheet.
• For bath time, warm water and a cloth is fine for the first few months.
• Invest in a handheld food mill and puree your own baby food. It’s easy, inexpensive, and fast!

Read the whole article here

From anteaters to zebras, this colorful A to Z set of animal flashcards ($34.50 at Delight.com) will not only teach your child her ABC’s, but could also be framed to make some nice wall decorations.

From Photojojo, here’s a unique crafts project that also gets the kids outdoors collecting leaves to make silhouette portraits from tree leaves.

Coochicoos is at the Dwell on Design Show (@dwellondesign) this weekend at the Los Angeles Convention Center.  Visit us in the Modern Family Lounge and see the latest children’s books from Chronicle Books, and furnishings from Boodalee, notNeutral, Wallcandy Arts, and Monte Design.

Update: See our slides from Sunday at Dwell on Design

The new Bloom Alma crib is a bit deceiving in its form and function.  It looks like a beautifully built stationary crib, but is cleverly designed to easily fold up for space-challenged living situations.  While I’m not sure of the benefit of folding and storing a bassinet/crib for a new baby that’s always sleeping, I see the Alma as a nice solution for travel and visiting guests.  The Alma is made with birch from sustainable sources, uses low VOC finishes, comes with lockable caster wheels, and is adjustable to two mattress heights. 

Available for delivery exclusively at Giggle.com

Bloom Alma Crib  |  $400 at Giggle

Found this totally cool crib on Mocoloco – the Culla Sinue by Daniela Avaltroni.

image via Mocoloco

As an occasional fan of the world music category, I’m more than a little intrigued with Ziggy Marley newest CD, Family Time, that is self-described as music for young people.  For myself, I’m looking forward to exposing my daughter the the unique rhythms of reggae, just as I’ve watched her enjoy the Brazilian-influenced mixes of Sergio Mendes’ Timeless CD. 

"Growing up music was an important part of my childhood, Marley says. I see it being just as important in my children and all children growth and development. Music helps children to grow with open minds and open hearts and this is my message. This record represents my daily family life and is inspired by my three-year-old daughter Judah and baby Gideon. It was a joy to make and opened up new avenues in my creativity. Family Time is for all families and especially the world family."

Read an interview with Ziggy Marley from the LA Times, and check out a photo gallery of the young audience that showed up for Ziggy’s recent concert in Los Angeles.

Check out the new eco-friendly line by Keds designed by Rogan Gregory and Scott Hahn for Loomstate using their certified organic cotton. 

The shoes are eco-friendly with organic uppers and linings, nickel-free eyelets, recycled insole board and shoe boxes and no tissue paper in the packaging.  Also, a percentage of sales go to the Organic Exchange.  [LA Times]

Available at Barneys.com.

image via Keds/Loomstate