JetSetBabies makes travel with baby easier

Fun in the Sun!

2011-06-22T12:44:00.010-05:00

School’s out for summer! Forget homework—kids are ready to get out and play. Follow these tips to help keep your kids safe and avoid common summertime injuries.

Before heading out on your summer vacation, be sure to check out the latest car seat recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics. The new policy says toddlers should stay in rear-facing car seats until at least age 2, or until they reach the maximum height and weight for their car seat. It also says that most children will need to ride in a belt-positioning booster seat until they are 4 feet 9 inches tall and between 8 and 12 years of age. Children should ride in the backseat until age 13.

Be Hard Headed - Make sure your child is protected while riding his or her bicycle, rollerblading or skateboarding. Look for helmets that:

Are brightly colored

Fit correctly

Can be easily adjusted

Have a Consumer Product Safety Commission or Snell Memorial Foundation sticker inside

Don’t allow your child to wear a hat under his or her helmet, and replace a helmet if your child hits a hard surface while wearing it. A helmet’s ability to absorb shock decreases after it has sustained a blow.

Don’t Let the Bugs Bite - Bug bites are common in the summer and are usually harmless. However, in addition to causing that aggravating itch, bug bites can be painful. To ward off mosquitoes and ticks, use an insect repellent that contains 10 percent to 30 percent DEET, and reapply every two or three hours. Never use insect repellants on a child younger than 2 months old, and avoid using products that combine DEET and sunscreen. The sun protection factor in these products is less effective, increasing the need for reapplication and potentially causing overexposure to DEET.

Drink Up - Before kids play outdoors, they need to drink water to prevent dehydration. During outdoor play, children weighing 90 pounds should drink 5 ounces of cold tap water every 20 minutes to prevent dehydration.

To keep your summer safe with a free first-aid kid from Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St.Vincent, visit KidsHealthLine.com/firstaidkit.

Little Out of Towners

2011-05-09T11:56:00.008-05:00

Renting baby/toddler gear is a great way to reduce stress when travelling with children! How often have you been packing for a family trip and wished you didn't have to haul so much gear around? Children's gear can be cumbersome and takes up a tremendous amount of valuable space. Add to that the hassle of reassembling it all when you reach your destination and you have a stressful start to your get-away - not exactly the relaxing escape we all dream of; but gear is a way of life for the safety-conscious parent. Renting offers the perfect compromise; safety with the convenience of delivery and assembly!

One of our favorite gear-rental companies is Little Out of Towners, located in the Charlotte, NC; they serve the greater Charlotte area as well as the York, Chester, and Lancaster counties of South Carolina! They feature an expansive line of JPMA-certified rental items at reasonable prices and take great pride in providing rental items of the highest standard with respect to safety, cleanliness, and condition! Travelling outside the Carolinas? No problem - they have compiled an extensive list of independently owned and operated rental companies spanning the world over, complete with contact information and websites! The Little Out of Towners is truly dedicated not only to keeping your kids safe when you travel, but also to making travel less stressful and more enjoyable for families!

Below are a few guidelines for renting gear:

Get all pricing information up front, including rental fees, delivery charges, fuel surcharges, set-up fees, late fees, and cancellation fees and policies.

Be certain to clarify what type of equipment you will be getting. Different companies may define "toddler bed" or "portable crib" differently - don't be afraid to ask questions to ensure you will be getting the gear you need!

The renter should be able to provide you with the manufacturer's recommendations regarding age, height and weight for whatever product(s) you may require.

Be certain to verify that the company checks for equipment recalls. Even if they do, it never hurts to double-check, so always get the make and model of the equipment so that you may check for yourself at http://www.recalls.org/.

Also, verify that their products are JPMA Certified. JPMA is the leader in product safety and usage; certification information is available athttp://www.jpma.org/.

Ask about the company's cleaning and safety-assurance procedures.

Bottom line: renting can save you time, hassle, and may even be cheaper than bringing your own items from home (once you factor in excess baggage fees, etc.) - so check out rentals for your next family adventure! Happy travels!

Snazzy Baby Knee Pads

2011-04-22T12:38:00.002-05:00

With spring here and summer right around the corner, I know ALL of you want to be outside. Make sure you get a pair of Snazzy Baby Knee Pads - perfect for baby crawling around outside! Your baby will love the new and improved snug, soft, 4 layer cushioned oval Snazzy Baby Knee Pads. Made of the very best Neoprene material available. They are secured with Velcro straps ensuring a comfortable fit and a happy baby.

On SALE for $18.00

Week at the Beach

2011-03-31T07:09:00.004-05:00

The week at the break package is the perfect for a spring break or a long vacation in a sunny location lounging on the sandy beach with your baby. This package makes ordering so convenient by having everything you need with one click. You just need to add the formula, baby food, and snacks that are specific to your baby's diet, check out and you are ready to go. Visit week at the beach and purchase one today!

Plan for your next ski trip...

2011-03-30T12:49:00.005-05:00

Whooga is widely recognized as the world’s fastest growing boutique brand of ugg boots. They stand proud as an alternative brand for chilli toes seeking something a little warmer than normal. They have achieve this legendary warmth and comfort with thermorfleece which offers a number of benefits over traditional ugg boots. - Whooga is an internationally trademarked brand - The fastest growing winter footwear brand for the past 4 years - A passion for fashion and creating the worlds warmest boots - We warm ten's of thousands of toes every single day.

I couldn’t agree more on the warmth and luxury of these boots. Whooga sent me a pair of Short chocolate ugg boots to review. For all those mom's out there that are looking for the most comfortable and warm boot I FOUND THEM!!!! From the moment I slipped them on I was in heaven. Whooga ugg boots warm your toes faster with lavishly thick thermofleece. Each pair of boots features luscious twin faced merino fleece, is double stitched for durability, shapes to the natural contours of your feet and is backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee. Simply enter 2CW804687 into the gift card section of your shopping cart for 10% off.

When you buy them for your next ski trip don't forget to order - Week on the slopes for the kids! Perfect for a week long vacation at the slopes with baby in tow. This package makes ordering so convenient by having everything you need with one click. You just need to add the formula, baby food, and snacks that are specific to your baby's diet, check out and you are ready to go. A little something for you and baby!

Tiny Bites Food Shears

2011-01-24T19:41:00.002-06:00

Tiny Bites Food Shears are fun and functional. They allow parents to safely, easily and efficiently cut their child’s food into small pieces to ensure safe consumption. They can easily turn any food into perfect “finger foods”, bite-sized pieces, easy-to-eat strips, fun shapes or sizes. Perfect for travel with your toddler.

Each Food Shear is 5 1/2" inches in diameter. The cutlery-grade stainless steel blades are 2 1/2" inches long. Dishwasher safe.

Comes in a package of 2.

Bundling up Baby

2010-12-28T11:48:00.000-06:00

As you head out the door this winter, it’s important you keep your baby warm and safe.
Whether your infant is outside or in, knowing the proper way to keep your little one warm and dry is vital to his or her health.

Don’t forget a hat. Your baby’s head is a huge percentage of his or her body, so be sure to invest in a warm hat if you are headed outdoors.
Do layer up. Dressing your child in warm layers will keep him or her warm while outside. Consider dressing your infant in thermal underwear, long sleeved shirts, and gloves or mittens.
Don’t use loose blankets or pillows in the crib. Leaving your baby untended with a loose blanket, pillow or other bedding could lead to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). If you are worried about your infant being cold, dress him or her in a one-piece sleeper.

Breastfeeding During the Holidays...

2010-11-29T12:11:00.001-06:00

Welcoming a child into the world is a joyous event, and now that your baby is here, you are busy taking care of him or her. Breastfeeding is a vital way you can connect with your infant immediately, but it can be hard to make time for this activity during the busy holiday season. While the holidays are a time to indulge, it’s important you eat properly.

If you are traveling, it may be hard to find time to breastfeed. Set aside one feeding and find a quiet place to feed, such as your room.

Family members might be tempted to give you advice or give your infant a treat. If you know your child is not ready for soft, solid foods, be sure to tell your family that and politely thank them for their advice.

While you may be tempted to skip a feeding here or there, don’t wait until your child is fussy or crying for food. Signs your infant is hungry include:

Moving head from side to side
Opening mouth
Puckering lips
Putting fingers or foot in mouth
Nuzzling against your chest
Stretching

If your infant exhibits any of these signs, try finding a moment to feed him or her. You and your husband know what is best for your baby.

Have a fun and safe holiday.

Year's Supply of Books

2010-11-26T14:37:00.004-06:00

The perfect gift that keeps on giving all year long Year's Supply of Books. We've done all the work and picked 36 of our favorite books for baby and put them in a fabulous gift that gives month after month. We'll ship out a package of books each month for the term of your gift. What a fabulous gift!

Happy "Healthy" Thanksgiving

2010-11-17T13:05:00.002-06:00

Thanksgiving is just around the corner. It’s meant to be spent enjoying time with family, as well as great food. Here are ways you can work with your family to prevent overeating and remain healthy throughout the holiday season.

Set a great example while still having a wonderful Thanksgiving feast this year:

1. Make a list and check it twice. Before heading to the supermarket, plan your Thanksgiving meal.

2. Bring the kids along. Have your children help you select fresh fruits and vegetables they’d like to try.

3. Use smaller plates. A small plate will fill up faster and help you and your children avoid grabbing more than you need.

4. Try it all. If you really want everything that’s being served, you may keep going back for more if you don’t satisfy your craving. Instead of getting full servings of each thing you’d like, have a small bite of each.

5. Veg out. Eat very small amounts of the heavy stuff and load up on a veggie tray, salad or roasted seasonal veggies, you’ll be doing great things for your health.

6. Don’t drink your calories. Choosing water, sugar free drinks, or skim milk can help to limit the excess in calories and weight gain that often occurs this time of year.

Enjoy your holiday week!!!

Reviewed by Lori Walton, R.N., B.S.N., pediatric weight management coordinator at Peyton Manning Children's Hospital at St.Vincent.

2010-10-27T18:08:00.002-05:00

Monthly diaper delivery service is on SALE for a limited time!!!! Check it out at Babyshowersbymail

Maybe you are becoming a Grandparent for the first time, or an Aunt and Uncle welcoming a beautiful new baby into the family, or just looking for a fabulous way to help out your best friend. You've looked at all the cute clothes, and colorful toys, and soft blankets but you really want to send a gift that is practical but will also show how much you care. BabyShowersByMail makes life easier one diaper at a time.

Monthly diaper delivery service is on SALE for limited time!!! What a great holiday gift!!! Check them out at Babyshowersbymail

2010-10-15T15:05:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to Tiffany (pipswueak_boutique) - She is the winner of 3 months diaper delivery paid in full!!!

3 MONTHS DIAPER DELIVERY PAID IN FULL!!!

2010-10-03T13:04:00.004-05:00

Enter to win 3 MONTHS DIAPER DELIVERY PAID IN FULL!!!!! BabyShowersByMail makes life easier one diaper change at a time. Our diaper delivery service from BabyShowersByMail doesn't just pamper parents, it give parents more time to pamper baby .This is a great gift for anyone with babies in diapers!!!

Three ways to enter:

1. Leave a comment on this blog about why you would love this gift!

2. Like our fan page on facebook JetSetBabies or Babyshowersbymail and leave a comment

3. Leave a comment and tell us about your favorite children's book - ages 1 - 12 mths

We will pick a winner Friday, Oct. 15th afternoon - please make sure you leave your email address or send it to maghan@babyshowersbymail.com so we can contact you if you win. Good Luck

2010-10-03T13:03:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Shala Clark she won the Pro Baby Sterilizer!!!

Week #4 - BabyPro Bottle Sterilizer

2010-09-26T01:15:00.004-05:00

Enter to win the BabyPro Bottle Sterilizer - by The First Years kills household bacteria on bottles, pacifiers, and small toys. The unique design directs steam deep into bottles for better sterilization. BabyPro is the first complete collection of appliances that help you provide the very best for your baby while looking great in your kitchen. Each appliance makes it easier to prepare healthy meals without sacrificing space or style.

The First Years - BabyPro Bottle Sterilizer:

Kills household bacteria on bottles, pacifiers, small toys, and breast pump parts
Directs steam deep inside bottles for better cleaning
Holds 8 standard or 5 wide bottles
Removable tray for nipples, breast pump parts, spouts, valves, pacifiers, teethers and small toys
BPA free

Three ways to enter:

1. Leave a comment on this blog about your favorite BabyShowersBymail.com item.

2. Like our fan page on facebook JetSetBabies or BabyShowersByMail and leave a comment

3. Leave a comment and tell us about your favorite children's book - ages 1 - 12 mths

We will pick the winner Sunday morning - Please leave your email address or send it to me at maghan@babyshowersbymail.com so we can contact you if you win.

2010-09-24T16:19:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Jessica she is the winner of the Sport Baby Leopard print carrier!!!

Week #3 Giveaway - Sports Baby Leopard Print Carrier!

2010-09-19T12:52:00.006-05:00

Enter to Win the fun Leopard print carrier. The SportsBaby™ infant carrier is GREAT! I used it on our vacation last winter and I was able to walk on the beach with my little one, swim in the water/beach, and enjoy all the tourist places. The innovative, patent-pending, dual-purpose soft carrier is designed for active moms and dads who live life “on the go.” It’s the only carrier on the market made specifically for both water and land use, for all types of weather and recreation. The special material makes it the most comfortable and flexible carrier you can buy. It’s the perfect choice for busy parents who want the economy of two great carriers in one, with comfort and style!

Three ways to enter:

1. Visit SportsBaby and leave a comment below with the weight limits for the carries.

2. Like our fan page on facebook Jetsetbabies or BabyShowersByMail and leave a comment

3. Leave a comment and tell us about your favorite children's book - ages 1 - 12 mths

please leave your email address or send it to me at maghan@babyshowersbymail.com so we can contact you if you win.

We will pick a winner at random each Friday afternoon.

2010-09-17T19:00:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Heather Harper she is the winner of the Handmade Baby Quilt!!!

Week #2 Giveaway - Handmade Baby Quilt

2010-09-12T20:00:00.006-05:00

Enter to WIN a Handmade Baby Quilt for girl - This flower and butterfly baby quilt is a one of a kind creation, handmade by Teri Lundgren in Duluth, Minnesota. This unique design will not be duplicated.

The center of this beautiful quilt has 3- dimensional flowers, and hand-tied grass to give it texture. The inner border is designed with a stained glass look using pink and green triangles. The outer border is machine quilted with many flying butterflies and the loopy paths they make.

This quilt is made to be enjoyed and used, and therefore it is machine washable, instructions included. Made from 100% cotton and all material is pre-washed. Measures approximately 28 x 44. $130 value

Three ways to enter:

1. Select your favorite JetSetBabies item at Jetsetbabies.com and leave a comment on this blog

2. Like our fan page on facebook Jetsetbabies or BabyShowersByMail and leave a comment

3. Leave a comment below and tell us about your favorite children's book - ages 1 - 12 mths

please leave your email address or send it to me at maghan@babyshowersbymail.com so we can contact you if you win.

We will pick a winner at random each Friday afternoon.

2010-09-11T11:51:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Colleen Smith Newman she is the winner of the year's subscription to the Wild Animal Baby!

Givaway - Wild Animal Baby

2010-09-06T00:27:00.005-05:00

Win a year's subscription to Wild Animal Baby. It is the National Wildlife Federation's (NWF’s) nature magazine for toddlers ages 2 to 4 years. I have two little ones that receive this magazine every month and we love it. The Animal Baby magazine introduces very young children to wildlife in ways that lay the foundation for a lifelong love of the natural world.

This magazine offers activities, crafts, recipes, and reading recommendations that build upon the content in each issue and further encourage a young child’s intellectual and emotional growth.

This would be a perfect gift for your kids or someone who has toddlers ages 2-4!

Three ways to enter:

1. Select your favorite babyshowersByMail item at BabyShowersByMail.com and leave a comment

2. Like our fan page on facebook JetSetBabies or BabyShowersByMail and leave a comment

3. Leave a comment on this blog and tell us your favorite Children's book - ages 1 - 12 mths

We will pick a winner at random each Friday afternoon.

September Giveaways

2010-09-02T21:09:00.001-05:00

Get Ready for Fall!!! JetSetBabies & BabyShowersByMail are doing a weekly giveaway the whole month of September! Check back Monday, September 6th for the 1st giveaway!!!

Playin' It Safe at the Playground

2010-08-31T11:41:00.001-05:00

Parents of toddlers know that playgrounds can be a great place for their little ones to enjoy much-needed physical activity, but many may be unaware of common playground hazards and safety concerns. Whether your child is a playground newcomer or a frequent visitor, you can help your toddler play it safe by learning safety guidelines and teaching them to your child.

Be Safe

Before you give your toddler access to a playground, assess the area and equipment to be sure it follows proper safety guidelines.

The surface under all playground equipment should be soft and consist of materials such as wood chips, mulch or sand. Falling to the surface is the most common contributing factor in playground injuries.
Evaluate the design of the playground—proper playgrounds should be built for two separate age groups: children under 5 years old and children ages 5 through 12.
Inspect the playground equipment to ensure it is well maintained. Check that it is kept clean with no broken or rusted areas.

Any hazards you find should be reported immediately to the school or municipality associated with the playground.

Have fun with your kids. With your guidance, your toddler will quickly become a playground pro.

Snack Time

2010-07-21T11:55:00.002-05:00

It’s 2:30 p.m. and your toddler is hungry. Instead of turning to his or her regular favorite snack, mix it up with a new variety of food that not only gives him or her added nutrients, but tastes good, too.

Snacking is an important part of meeting a growing toddler’s nutritional needs—these “mini-meals” provide active toddlers with energy throughout the day that they may have missed at mealtime.

Control your child’s portion sizes, use small bags to pack snacks for quick, easy access.

Dairy options for snacking include:
*Low-fat chocolate milk
*Nonfat cottage cheese or yogurt with fruit
*String cheese with canned or fresh fruit
*Whole-wheat crackers with peanut butter or cheese
*Yogurt with granola or fresh fruit

Some fruit and veggie snacking combinations to try include:
*Apple slices and cheeses
*Baby carrots
*Dried fruit, including raisins and plums, with nuts
*Frozen fruit bars
*Raw veggie sticks with low-fat yogurt dip, hummus or cottage cheese
*Unsweetened applesauce cups

Grains that make for healthy snacks include:
*Bagel “pizzas” with tomato sauce and melted cheese
*Baked potato chips or tortilla chips with salsa
*Flavored rice cakes, such as apple cinnamon or caramel, with peanut butter
*Graham crackers, animal crackers, gingersnaps, fig bars or vanilla wafers with a glass of milk
*Popcorn, either air popped or low-fat microwave
*Pretzels, lightly salted or unsalted, and a glass of milk

Reviewed by Katherine Pederson, M.D., pediatrician at Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St.Vincent.

Visit a local grocer when traveling abroad

2010-07-11T13:27:00.004-05:00

Here is a fun idea for traveling to other countries or even different ethnic communities within the states. Bring your children to a local grocery store. This can be really fun and also provide you with some insite to the people and the area you are visiting.

Every time we go to Chinatown in New York City, we have to take a tour through a local grocer. Seeing the fresh fish, unique vegetables, and other foods provides a real treat for kids. My children especially love looking at the different candies and sweets and of course we always leave with some tasty treats!