These Contigo travel mugs are guaranteed to be spill-proof.  Find out if they pass the mother test over at Car & Caboodle.

Kids love to say no just for the heck of it, and so DesignMom’s kids find reasons to love this new book 1000 Times No by Mr. Warburton.

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