Cool Baby Kid

Cool Tip: How You Can Keep Your Kids Organized

2009-12-07T16:00:00.003-05:00

This is a great question. Reading to your child is such an important activity. It is a great time for bonding, it's educational and instills a valuable habit in your child's life from a young age. But, books can become clutter very easily. What is a parent to do?

~Organize books by category. In our home for instance, the reference books and books related to my business are kept in the office. The books we read as a family have a home in the family room and the books my kids like to read are on a bookshelf in their bedrooms.

~When children are small, the books for their age are typically more durable and can be kept with their other toys. However, you can begin instilling a respect for books even at a young age by having a special shelf or place just for books. This gets children in the habit of putting books away in a safe place right from the start.

~Resist the temptation to own every book you like to read. Sort down to your favorites and the most useful and most read. Then visit the library, used book stores, book swaps, etc. to get new reading material frequently that does not end up needing a home in your home! My old mom's group used to have regular book swaps where we could all trade in the books our kids had grown tired of for titles we hadn't read yet. Books your children have outgrown can be donated to thrift stores, daycares and women's shelters.

Written by Melissa, Multi-Tasking Mama

Looking for even more blogging and parenting tips? We've got you covered...

Cool Baby Kid's Top Five Picks of 2009 for Mom, Baby & Kid

2009-12-05T06:00:00.000-05:00

We have a Top Ten Toys of 2009 as well as a Top Picks designation, but choosing just five among a few hundreds products and companies we've spotlighted in the last year forces us to pick the best of the best. Our favorites can also be found on the left sidebar under "Editor's Top Ten Favorites" and in the "Editor's Picks" category. These are our top five favs of 2009:

1. Corky & Co. Kids Coats

I was first introduced to Corky by a friend and now Cool Baby Kid contributor, Lynn, who swore by Corky for her kids. Now mine will not wear anything but since they are by far the cutest more unique kids coats on the planet.

2. LeapFrog Educational Toys

Having just purchased half of their toy line for the holidays, I can unequivocally say LeapFrog talk my 19 month old his letters (thanks Fridge Phonics) and is unparalleled when it comes to learning toys and games for kids of all ages.

3. Sherpani Bags for Women

Thanks to a simple tweet I sent asking for a "stylish laptop bag" I found Sherpani, now an affiliate of C0ol Baby Kid for good reason. Their line of bags and luggage is fresh, funky, functional and fabulous. How's that for some major alliteration? And with free shipping until the holidays and a stellar sale, I couldn't help buys a few gifts (4 actually) myself!

4. Pink Bowtique Hair Accessories and Bows

Though I try to keep Cool Baby Kid a clean, uncluttered blog, I couldn't help put their banner under "Excited About" n the sidebar beacuse their hair accessories and bows are our favorite for value and uniqueness. Love them.

5. Bella Tunno Wipeable, Washable Bibs

I'm sad for many reasons my toddlers are moving away from bibs partly beacuse it took two years for me to find the perfect ones. So here you go...Bella Tunno bibs not only wipe clean but can be thrown into the washer too. No kidding.

For more top picks, check out all of our favorites as well as discounts and coupon codes for many of the products we've spotlighted.

Thank you to Daily Blog Tips for the 2009 roundup post idea as we participate in their group writing project around that theme.

Masala Baby: Indian-Inspired Children's Apparel {Giveaway}

2009-12-04T16:00:00.000-05:00

Masala Baby is unique and modern, offering Indian inspired clothes for children ages 6 months to 4 years old. Their line of tunics, bodysuits, and hoody sets are comfortable, luxurious, and soft. My little one has the White Peacock Tunic and we have received many compliments on it. Tunics are also known as "kurtas" and they are made from hand woven fabric. I also love their distinctive, vibrant body suits and hoody sets too. Masala's line of super cute everyday basics will add spice and life to any wardrobe. Their slogan is appropriate, "We are different, yet the same," and I feel that their clothes will make your child feel different in a positive way. Browse their varied collection on line for all of your holiday gifts and bring the essence of India into your life.

Written by Alicia, Cool Baby Kid Contributor

Cool Giveaway: Enter to win a white Peacock Tunic by visiting their site and commenting back here on your favorite design.

Extra Entries: Find out how to earn even more entries and read the contest rules including how to subscribe for winner notification. Ends 12/11/09. US Only.

November Giveaway Winners {Plus Exclusive Coupon Codes}

2009-12-04T09:00:00.000-05:00

Congrats November giveaway winners! Please contact us at coolbabykid (at) gmail (dot) com to claim your prize. In your email, specify color/pattern/size choice if applicable. And if November wasn't your month, don't despair. We've wrangled some exclusive discounts and coupon codes so everyone is a winner!

Congratulations to...

LadyTink_534 on winning a SoftLips Lip Balm prize pack. (No choice)

Carolsue on winning a Tyler Trends onesie.

Andrea from KY on winning a Young Scientist's Club science kit.

Mom2anutball on winning a personalized letter from Santa from FT Greetings.

Trixx on winning Sofi & Liv Boo Balm.

Mkokopelli on winning Putumayo Presents: A Family Christmas CD.

Kim on winning an Ergo Baby Heart2Heart insert.

Renee on winning a Retse Designs tee. (Choice design/size)

Ginny on winning a Tutu Sweet Hat and Fairytale Princes Baby Headband by Pink Bowtique.

Discounts and Coupon Codes

Enter code "CBK1" for 15% of Tyler Trends apparel.

Enter code"COOLBABYKID" for 10% off your Retse Designs apparel order.

For additional coupon codes and special offers, visit our Discounts section.

Top Five LeapFrog Learning Toys: Infant to School-Aged Picks

2009-12-04T05:00:00.000-05:00

Where to begin? With just three days we can hardly do justice to LeapFrog's extensive selection of educationall toys and games, and choosing just a few is no easy task. We've been fans of LeapFrog learning toys long before Cool Baby Kid was born. To help narrow it down for discriminating parents with lots to shop for as the holidays hit and not a lot of time, here are our top ten aside from the Tag and Zippity reviewed earlier this week:

1. My Pal Violet or Scout is a cuddly, customizable dog which easily connects to the computer to learn your child's name, songs and more to interact, play games and sing with your child. Scout has become our son's new best friend...isn't it supposed to be the other way around? Age: 6-36 months

2. NEW! Chat & Count Cell Phone lets even the smallest member of your family get in on the action by calling their pal Scout. Pressing each number recalls over 15 activities as they sing songs and count objects. For a son obsessed with letters and numbers, it's perfect.
Age: 18 Months- 3 Years

3. Baby Counting Pals hung on the kids' infant seat and hung out in the car for fun and learning on the go for as long as I can remember. This is our pick for infants this holiday season as it teaches young ones how to count with cute critter friends.
Age: 3 - 24 Months

4. Fridge Phonics Magnetic Alphabet Set was discovered in our family by the babysitter who claimed it to be "the toy all of the kids love most." After purchasing one ourselves we can verify that "B...b says buh...every letter makes a sound..." is a constant chorus
in our house and part of the reason our 19 month old can recite and recognize the alphabet.
Age: 24 Months- 5 Years

5. Scribble & Write, our most recent LeapFrog purchase, is perfect for travel. As with all LeapFrog products, learning is masked by fun as letter tracing is transformed into a game. Though intended as a Christmas gift, we couldn't help breaking it out early to take "out to dinner." If only it could teach the 19 month and 3 year old to share nicely too.
Age: 3-5 Years

Smart Tip: LeapFrog Learning path allows users to follow their child's learning and skills over time by linking their toys to a free online account.

LeapFrog Week Continued: Zippity Review & Giveaway

2009-12-03T05:00:00.004-05:00

It's a marriage made it heaven. Two absolute favorites in our house, LeapFrog and Disney, combine for what would be considered our #1 top toy pick of 2009 if it weren't for the Tag Jr, also by LeapFrog. The Zippity Learning Game consists of a mat and "bopper" which connects to the TV for an interactive experience without comparison. The included games brings the Playhouse Disney characters--Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, My Friends Tigger & Pooh, Little Einsteins and Handy Manny--into your child's world as they jump, bounce, march, twist and turn with their favorite characters. While parents can easily find educational toys and games, they'll be hard pressed to find one that mimics Zippity's ability to interact and get kids' moving.

In fact, I recently purchased the all new Disney's Princess and the Frog Zippity Game as a stocking stuffer in anticipation of the movie. Disney Princess and Cars round out the currently selection of Zippity games, but with two levels for each selection, the original will keep kids happy...for now. My 3 year old daughter's favorites are riding along with Rocket as she steers the spacecraft and dancing with Snow White (Princess game), but pounding in nails by jumping onto the mat with Handy Manny is most fun for me. That is...if I were to play the Zipptiy which of course I do not since the game is obviously for children.

Bottom line: If you like educational games for kids which get them up and moving around in an interactive way with the TV which they inevitably love) and have a special place in your heart for all things Disney, the Zipptiy is your ticket.

The Zippity by LeapFrog receives a *Top Pick* designation for being one of our favorite learning toys of all time!

Cool Giveaway: Enter to win a Zippity Learning Game by sharing this giveaway as many times in different ways as you'd like. Use "Tell a Friend" and "Kirtsy" buttons below and comment for each share.

Extra Entries: Blog about the Cool Baby Kid's Zippity giveaway with a link to both this post and www.leapfrog.com for three (3) extra entries and remember to leave three separate comments. Become a LeapFrog fan on Facebook and mention Cool Baby kid sent you you for two additional entries, leave a comment for both.

Find out how to earn even more entries and read the contest rules and disclaimer including how to subscribe for winner notification. Ends 12/11/09. US Residents only.

Looking for even more giveaways? We've got you covered...

Kicking Off LeapFrog Week with Tag & Tag Jr. {Giveaway}

2009-12-02T05:00:00.005-05:00

When putting together our top ten toys of the holiday season, our #1 pick, the Tag Jr. from LeapFrog, was an easy choice. As an educator and mother, who understands the importance of not only teaching children to read but to become lifelong readers, the Tag system is ideal. There are various reading teaching strategies, but our goal with young toddlers is to introduce words, books, and reading. Tag Jr. makes the process fun by its interaction with not just the words but pictures too. By pressing the Tag onto the pages of specially designed books, the words and pictures come alive and the reader is treated to explanations of everything from Sesame Street faces to over 24 activities and 130 audio responses in ABC Animal Orchestra. Each book explores a different preschool skill with titles such as "Pooh Loves To" and "Panda Bear, Panda Bear, What do You see?" While the Tag Jr. system is geared toward young preschoolers ages 2-4, the original Tag for ages 4-8 started the revolution as the #1 best selling reading system. Enter promotional info here.

Because it seamlessly integrates education with fun, is portable and an overall favorite of our editor's, the Tag Jr. earns a Cool Baby Kid *Top Pick* for the holiday season and beyond.

Cool Giveaway: Enter to win a Tag Jr. by watching the Sesame Street Faces demonstration and commenting back here about the video.

Extra Entries:Become a LeapFrog fan on Facebook and mention Cool Baby kid sent you for two additional entries, leave a comment for both. Find out how to earn even more entries and read the contest rules including how to subscribe for winner notification. Ends 12/11/09.

Looking for even more giveaways? We've got you covered...

Begin Smart Book Review & Prize Pack Giveaway {$90 Value}

2009-12-01T15:30:00.004-05:00

One safe bet for holiday gift giving...books. Kids can never have too many since we all agree teaching children to read and enjoy reading is #1 on our educational priority list. Maybe slightly biased as an English teacher myself, I've always regarded books as the best gift to give everyone from baby to adult.

When we received some of the new Begin Smart titles, the kids immediately were drawn to How Many Beeps and and Push the Button. More than just a beep, the button serves to allow interaction with counting, colors and more. With so many age appropriate titles developed by a team of experts and created by talented Harriet Ziefert the toughest, task is choosing a book. Colorful illustrations, various shapes, sizes and textures all create interest in even the youngest readers. Here are some favorites:

Animal Faces (Newborn - 6M)
What Does Baby See? (Newborn-6M)
Bouncy Baby (6-12M)
Meow & Woof (6-12M)
Peek-a-Boo What (12-18M)
Splish Splash (12-18M)
How Many Beeps (18-24M)
Who Am I? (18-24M)

Begin Smart receives a *Top Pick* designation for being the most developmentally appropriate book series and a favorite of Cool Baby Kid's editorial staff.

Cool Giveaway: Enter to win each of the new Fall Begin Smart titles including: Animal Faces, Look Around and Listen, Bouncy Baby: A First Lift-the-Flap Book, Baby Says, Peek-a-Boo What?, Push the Button, How Many Beeps and Hooray for Hands! To enter, comment on this post about the Begin Smart Slideshow. ($90 Value)

Extra Entries: Blog about the Cool Baby Kid's Begin Smart giveaway with a link to both this post and http://www.beginsmart.com for three (3) extra entries and remember to leave three separate comments. Find out how to earn even more entries and read the contest rules and disclaimer including how to subscribe for winner notification. Ends 12/11/09. US Residents only.

Evenflo Triumph Advance LX Convertible Car Seat & Generations 65 Booster Set Reviews {Giveaway}

2009-12-01T05:00:00.002-05:00

When it comes to car seats, safety and comfort are top on the list. And it is why I love the Evenflo Triumph Advance LX convertible car seat for my kids. With baby #3, I still love what Evenflo car seats offer not only to babies and toddlers, but to moms as well. (Not to mention it was also rated #1 in a leading consumer magazine for performance and price.) My kids have loved the Evenflo car seats for the comfort they provide, and the Triumph LX is no different with the recline feature for snoozing in the car or hitting the road for our annual summer vacation. And 8+ hour road trip and comfort and necessary companions. The removable pillows are great too. Of course, the attached cup holder is a hit for mom and tot-- since we cannot go anywhere without the sippy cup---and what better and safer way than to have it right there next to them to help avoid meltdowns.

The Triumph Advance LX holds kids forward-facing up to 50 pounds, and it’s compact contoured shape fits nicely in the car. One of my favorite features is the easy tension knob that you can adjust literally with one hand. And what mom doesn’t love that? This convertible car seat is a keeper in my household for now and years to come.

For little ones who are not so little, Evenflo's Generations 65 stands up to the test. We've tried out this booster seat for a few weeks and find it incredibly easy to maneuver. For a seat which holds up to 65 lbs., it takes up little room as compared to other seats we've tried. Looking forward to 30 lbs. when it can be used with a seat belt alone, we also like that Generations has all necessary creature comforts for toddler: removable pillow and cup holder, washable cloth pad, two crotch buckle positions and even movable arm rests too. No need to pay and arm and a leg when Evenflo makes a safe, durable car seat and booster for any age.

Written by Lynn, Cool Baby Kid Contributor and Cecelia, Editor

Evenflo car and booster seats receives a *Top Pick* designation for being a great value and favorite of the CBK team of reviewers and editors.

Cool Giveaway: Enter to win an Evenflo Triumph Advance Convertible Car Seat by visiting their site and commenting back here about one feature not mentioned in the review.

Extra Entries: Find out how to earn additional entries and read the contest rules and disclaimer including how to subscribe for winner notification. Ends 12/11/09. US Residents only.

Looking for even more giveaways? We've got you covered...

Escape from Adventure Island by Jumpstart: Wii Game

2009-11-30T16:30:00.002-05:00

While the first game from Jumpstart for Wii, Pet Rescue, we designed for younger children, their second release targets ages 5-9 years old. The goal in educational Wii game Escape from Adventure Island is to find pieces to repair the blimp needed to escape the island. And like Pet Rescue, games and education are seamlessly intertwined so players hardly realize they are learning. After personalize the Jumpee and Treehouse home, the adventure begins as users navigate the island and ocean too. Jumping into the Scuba Hub and diving deep was our favorite part of the game. With math and reading skills built into the game, you can erase some of the guilt as your child picks up the Wii remote while you cook dinner or fold a load of laundry. Using the remote extensively, users swim, jump, fly and roll around the island using either practice or story mode. We also like the ability to select levels at each pit stop for an even more customizable experience.

Rating: E (Everyone)

Ages: 5-9 yrs.

Purchase: $19.99, Amazon

Smart Tip: Enter the promo code in your game to subscribe for discounts, incentives and pre-release information from Jumpstart.

Pearl Paradise: Pearl Jewelry Set for Kids {Giveaway}

2009-11-30T12:30:00.000-05:00

Sometimes, I'm good. While more often than not the laundry piles up and "I can't do it all!" can be heard multiple times each week, every once in a while I'm on the ball. This year I have preparing for Christmas in the bag. My daughter's dress was purchased last season and Christmas cards are ready to mail. So I've spent time recently on the details, and today's pick is one of those finds. Pearl Paradise actually has a Freshwater Pearls Set for kids which will compliment and refine any holiday outfit, whether the little lady is four or fourteen. Starting with a 5.5 inch bracelet and 17 inch necklace, they are the smallest I've found to fit my petite daughter. Their pearl sets, pearl necklaces or pearl earrings and more arrive with an appraisal, gift box and care kit which also packages nicely for the perfect gift.

Created by former flight attendant Jeremy Shepard who purchased a set of pearls while abroad for his girlfriend for Christmas, Pearl Paradise began as a way to offer an expensive product, freshwater pearls, at an inexpensive price. When his girlfriends had the $20 pearls appraised at $600, Mr. Shepard knew he was on to something, and we are the beneficiary with the kids' set purchase price at just $55 though valued much, much higher. Pearl Paradise is a gem, or should I say pearl, of a find.

Cool Giveaway: Enter to win a Freshwater Pearls Set for kids, including necklace and bracelet, by Pearl Paradise and commenting back here with a fact not mentioned in this post.

Extra Entries: Follow Pearl Paradise on Twitter for an additional entry, and find out how to earn even more entries and read the contest rules and disclaimer including how to subscribe for winner notification. Ends12/11/09. Open to all.

Lily Me Charm Jewelry: French Couture {Giveaway}

2009-11-30T05:50:00.009-05:00

Visiting Paris a few years ago, my impression was instant envy for the women who seemed to effortlessly look chic. I vowed to wear scarves and never again venture outside in sweats. So when an opportunity to review Lily Me, a French charm jewelry shop whose Parisian-born creator decided to bring chic to her new home in New England, I was thrilled. Lily Me's personalized charm bracelets and charm necklaces are delicate charms on chords of various colors are for moms and daughters alike. On plated gold or sterling silver, charms can be personalized with names, initials or special messages. Of course Lily Me bracelets and necklaces would make perfect Christmas gifts or baby shower gifts, but looking ahead they will definitely be included in our Mother's Day gift guide as well. And since my toddler daughter is petite, that the bracelets are adjustable means no wrist is too small. Unlike scarves, you don't have to be taught how to wear Lily Me jewelry either.

Thank you to LilyMe for sending Cool Baby Kid this beautiful bracelet and to Momblebee for introducing us to this great brand.

Cool Giveaway: Enter to win a Lily Me charm bracelet, winner's choice of style and chord color (limit one charm) by visiting their site and commenting back here with your favorite design.

Extra Entries: Earn additional entries by becoming a Lily Me Facebook friend, following on Twitter, tweeting this contest (#LilyMe) or bookmarking on any social media using "Tell a Friend" below. Find out how to earn unlimited entries. Ends12/11/09.

Smart Tip: Get 10% off at LilyMe using coupon code "“lilymeblog"” with your first order. Offer valid through January 1, 2010.

What Gifts Did You Buy This Year? Share Your Ideas...

2009-11-27T14:09:00.008-05:00

Top ten lists, holiday gift guides and discount lists are fine and dandy, but what we really want to know is...what did you buy this year? For kids, spouse, friends or family, share your purchases to give us some ideas! Include the following:

Product, Price, Review or Purchase Link, Sale End Date

Be sure to make it easy for the rest of us to purchase, and if there's a sale include the end or expiration date if applicable. For addition gift ideas, check out our multi-blog Double Duty Diva Gift Guide too. No pitches please.

Marshmallow Skull & Crossbone Shooter: Review & Giveaway

2009-11-27T13:20:00.001-05:00

There's a new sheriff in town and he’s armed...

The Marshmallow Skull & Cross-bone Shooter, a toy gun which shoot marshmallows, holds 25 Mini Marshmallows is easy to operate and has surprising power. I shot several Mini Marshmallows over 30 feet. No jams by this reviewer, only a barrage of flying marshmallow projectiles. My co-workers were never so scared. As flying objects go, Mini Marshmallows are not a bad choice, they don’t hurt and are easy to pickup. And if you loose them, so what, you can rearm at your local grocery store. Try that with those Nerf toys. The gun is great for army battles with your toy soldiers. Just place your toy soldiers in formation and take turns mowing them down. The last one with a standing toy soldier is the winner. It also works surprisingly well to remove you house feline if it just won’t leave you alone.

Written by Mike, Cool Baby Kid's Extra Cool Husband

Editor's Note: We do not advocate shooting your family animal nor does my husband shoot our cat with the Marshmallow gun...that I am aware of.

Cool Giveaway: Enter to win a Marshmallow Shooter by visiting their site and commenting back here about your favorite style. Get an additional entry by becoming a Marshmallow Fun Company Facebook fan.

Extra Entries: Earn an additional entry by becoming a Marshmallow Fun Company Facebook fan. Find out how to earn even more entries and read the contest rules including how to subscribe for winner notification. Ends 12/11/09. US Only.

The Baby Bloak: "We've Got Baby Covered" {Giveaway}

2009-11-27T07:00:00.006-05:00

Wise mother Jennifer Albin created this incredible gem. The Baby Bloak acts as a warm coat, a nursing cover, a poncho, and it can even work in a baby sling. The possibilities for this product are endless. My favorite part about the Baby Bloak is that if your baby falls asleep in the car you can take them out without waking them up. Even a heavy sleeper wakes up when their coat is being taken off but no need to worry with the Baby Bloak. It comes in many colors and designs and it is made from soft, environmentally friendly anti-pill fleece. It can be put on and taken off in ten seconds or less. One size fits from infancy through toddlerhood. This may be one of the only products that you can use for three or more years.

The Baby Bloak was featured in the National Talk Show, The doctors and it was also featured in K.C. Parents Magazine. In November 2008 it was given Honorary Rankings in StartUp Nation's Most Innovative Product Awards. This is an item that you do not want to miss.

Written by Alicia, Cool Baby Kid Contributor

Cool Giveaway: Enter to win a Baby Bloak by visiting their site and commenting back her with your favorite design.

Extra Entries: Earn an additional entry by becoming a Baby Bloak fan on Facebook or following on Twitter. Find out how to earn even more entries and read the contest rules including how to subscribe for winner notification. Ends 12/11/09. US Only.

Happy Thanksgiving: Our Holiday Picks & Discounts Plus Announcement of the $500 Giveaway Winner

2009-11-26T06:00:00.004-05:00

We're thankful today for lots of things, but on Cool Baby Kid we want to give a big grazie to our readers for stopping by to visit our corner of the web. And tomorrow while I'm out scouring the stores for great deals and you're either doing to same or staying warm and cozy at home, we have some tips on the hot items for the holidays. Our holiday gift guide is a collaboration with over 15 other bloggers, so it's the most comprehensive blog gift guide you'll find. Here are Cool Baby Kid's contributions:

LeapFrog Black Friday Sale, going on until 11/30/09...can't be beat!

Sherpani Bags make perfect gifts...new styles and a big sale

Tiny Tongs Toddler Utensils with Giveaway (Ending 12/9/09)

Top Ten Toys of the Season, 2009 Edition

KMart Bluelight Special, Daily $50 Gift Card Giveaway

Baby Hats and Gift Sets from Custom Baby Clothes

Soft Talking Madeline Doll & Book

Kota & Pals by Playskool

For even more Black Friday, check out our multi-blog exclusive discounts, coupon codes and sites for Black Friday deals courtesy of the Double Duty Divas with over 50 coupon codes.

And a very Happy Thanksgiving to Susan Chew! Congratulations on being #52 in the Random Number Generator and winning over $500 of baby and kid products. Please contact us at coolbabykid (at) gmail (dot) com to claim your prize.

Charm Factory Review & Giveaway, Valued up to $100!

2009-11-25T15:00:00.000-05:00

For Christmas this year Santa is finally bringing our daughter a charm bracelet. Though I've wanted since she's born to start a charm collection, like the unfinished baby book, it just hasn't happened until now. I love the idea of a gift we can add to at every occasion that will grow with her. Having researched (of course) various sites, I choose Charm Factory since they offer free shipping over $25 and their products are lead free and made in the USA. They have various types of bracelets including toggle, cuff and others and just about every possible charm theme you can imagine. The baby shoes with birthstone, gymnastics, and big sister charms were just a few we choose for starters and plan to add for every Christmas and birthday another charm which represents a particular stage in her life. Likely the 3D cupcake charm will remain on her sterling silver charm bracelet for some time to come. Adults can get in on the action...check out the adorable new "I Love to Blog" charm especially for master bloggers! The order arrived quickly as solidifying our choice of Charm Factory as the place to go for this special, life-long gift for our daughter.

Cool Giveaway: Enter to win a sterling silver charm bracelet with your choice of eight (8) charms by following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Kaboodle. Get an extra entry for each follow and be sure to leave separate comments for additional entries.

Extra Entries: Find out how to earn even more entries and read the contest rules including how to subscribe for winner notification. Ends 12/9/09. US Only.

Apericots Organic Clothing {$25 Gift Certificate Giveaway}

2009-11-25T07:20:00.001-05:00

If you are looking for something cute and unique for your baby then Apericots organic baby clothes are for you. Most of us can admit that organic cotton is top of mind when choosing clothes for our babies. When you combine all the benefits that organic cotton offers with fun, unique clothes for your baby that provides ultimate comfort, it is definitely a must-see. The best part of Apericots line of organic baby clothes and onesies is that you can either pick one of their pre-designed styles, such as the Chocolate Pie Long Sleeve “King” onesie, or you can design your own onesie for your little one to match his or her little personality. You can also choose pants, bibs, hats or thermals and even customize your own cloth diapers! Of course, I love that the clothes are eco-friendly organic cotton and brought to us by a group of parents, who like us, want to provide the very best for our babies. So after receiving the King onesie, I went back for more and love the Robot and Orange Abe the Ape thermal onesies for my little guy. And for the perfect gift, just add some pants and a bib or hat for a cozy ensemble since Apericots is now offering free shipping on orders of $50 or more for your holiday shopping.

Written by Lynn, Cool Baby Kid Contributor

Cool Giveaway: Enter to $25 gift certificate, plus free shipping, for Apericots by visiting their site and commenting back here with your favorite style.

Extra Entries: Find out how to earn even more entries and read the contest rules including how to subscribe for winner notification. Ends 12/9/09. US Only.

Snowy Sports: Ready, Set Go, Play! Book Review {Giveaway}

2009-11-24T17:00:00.001-05:00

Snowy Sports is a beautifully illustrated hardcover children's book about winter activities. It provides pictures and vocabulary on each colorful page which is suggested for ages 3-7 with a grade one reading level. Each page of Snowy Sport provides a brief description of the sport and then defines the equipment needed for the sport. My three year old loves to read this book at bedtime, and I love the fact that it builds vocabulary skills, reviews sight words, and the pretty pictures make it an easy read.

Written by Alicia, Cool Baby Kid Contributor

Cool Giveaway: Enter to win a copy of Snowy Sports by using the "Share This" below to share the contest, and be sure to leave a comment with how you shared.

Extra Entries: Find out how to earn even more entries and read the contest rules including how to subscribe for winner notification. Ends 12/8/09. US Only.

Social Circle Cards: Business or Conact Cards That Stand Out

2009-11-24T05:06:00.000-05:00

At BlogHer 2009 in Chicago, one set of business cards stood out among the crowd. Bridget from the Experimental Mommy's circle shaped cards set her apart immediately. Whether it was Bridgette's unique Social Circle cards or her winning personality, we not only became real-life friends but also business partners on the blog network venture Double Duty Divas. I immediately contacted Social Circle cards when it was time for my own business card update. At the Time to Play toy showcase in October, I received compliment after compliment that my cards were unique, and one major toy company executive said, "These are the neatest cards I've ever seen." Social Circle cards can also be used as contact or calling cards for networking, perfect to stick in the diaper bag and give to new acquaintances. Great for bloggers or businesses, one of my favorite features is the custom container which stores and showcases the cards. Thanks Bridgette for the cool tip on this super cool company.

Cool Giveaway: Enter to win on set of Social Circle customized cards (24 cards) by and then commenting using the "Tell a Friend" button to sharing this post and commenting below. Become a Social Circle fan on Facebook for an extra entry.

Extra Entries: Find out how to earn even more entries and read the contest rules including how to subscribe for winner notification. Ends 12/8/09. US Only.

Hot Picks from Haute Mamas:Zhu Zhu Pets, Mickey and More

2009-11-23T17:00:00.003-05:00

In one of most popular posts of the month, Cool Baby Kid highlights some of the best of other cool blogs around the web. And while we're sharing the $500 Unclaimed Prize Pack Giveaway with these sites, the Haute Mamas are bring us everything from Christmas gift picks to going green.

Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Erin @ The Mom Buzz

Green Your Swiffer Wet Jet, Marianna @ Green Mamas Pad

Best Christmas Ever, Ellen @ Thrifty & Chic Mom

Expose On A Fat Girl Part 3, Lee @ MySentimentExactLee

Got Zhu Zhu? Top Ten Ways to Score a Hamster, Bridgette @ The Experimental Mommy

Have Kids Will Travel! Spotlight on Kid Friendly Maui Hotels, Sarah @ The Ohana Mama

Read previous Haute Mama picks picks for more Bridgette, Ellen, Erin, Sarah and Lee!

Black Friday Steals & Deals + Exclusive Coupon Codes!

2009-11-23T07:00:00.002-05:00

The Double Duty Divas are at it again, on the ball and managing it all. This time we're rounding up not only our favorite Black Friday sites but also bringing you exclusive deals and discounts on bows, brownies, baskets and more. Will you be braving the crowd this Friday?

Steals and Deals

Simply FaBOWlous: 20% off entire order with code NotSo20
Sweet Muse Brownies: 10% off entire order on Black Friday with code BF10
Barbar Hair Tools: 50% off entire order until Dec. 31st with code Blog4fun
Sweet Dreams Maternity Wear: 15% off entire order and FREE shipping on orders over $100 until November 29th with code NSBF-15
Avon: FREE shipping with code FSANY until Dec. 3rd
mark.: FREE shipping on purchases of $25 or more until Dec. 3rd with code MARKFS25
Rock Paper Scissors Invitations: 20% off entire order on Black Friday with code GOODIES Gourmet Gift Basket: $5 off an order of $50 or more through Dec. 31st with code BLOG5 Sugarhouse Ink: 25% off entire order on Black Friday with code NSBLK25
Futurowoman: FREE 5x7 print with code Black Friday
UV Skinz: 20% off entire order with code HOLIDAY09
Shop at Home: 30% off for registered members
Slim Perfect: 10% off orders over $50 plus FREE ground shipping with code BlackFriday Adorable Kinders: 25% off entire order until Dec. 31st with code AKBLOG25
Piggy Paint: 15% off entire order until Feb. 14th, 2010 with code THANKYOU15L
FoldTuk: 15 % off entire order until Jan. 1st with code Not So Blog
My Princess Party to Go: Holiday Promotion Princess Dress, Boa, Tiara and gift packaging for $8.99! Win one at Experimental Mommy!
Bei Bambini: 30% off already reduced prices with code bbVIP30
ZDaisy: 40% off entire order on Black Friday with code BF2009
A Touch of Whimsy Designs Stationary: 15% off entire order on Black Friday with code BF2009 Little People Wealth: FREE advertising for January 2009. Email (littlepeoplewealth (at) gmail (dot) com) on Black Friday with JAN ADVERTISING in the subject line.
Planet Jill: 20% off entire order until Dec. 12th with code PJGET20
Little MissMatched: 30% off winter socks through Nov. 29th with code WINTERSOCKS
Staples: Black Friday deals can be found on their Facebook page
Little Lasso: 15% off entire order with code COOLBABY
Harvey Prince: $10 off a full size bottle of Flirt or Ageless perfume with code LYA
Little Moon Jumper: 15% off personalized blanket with code COOLBABY15
FT Greetings: 10% off personalized Santa Letters with code Christmas10
My Baby Clothes Boutique: $5 off any order over $50 with code 5offnow, or free shipping on orders over $75 with code freeshipping
Tyler Trends: 15% off entire order with code CBK1
Charm Factory: Free shipping with code COOL
Pink Bowtique: 10% off any purchase with code tutusweet

Our Favorite Black Friday Sites

Deals and Coupons
6pm.com
Retail Happy Hour
Black-Friday
Bargain Finders
Old Navy Black
Friday Deals
Fishing for Deals

Participating Double Duty Diva Bloggers

Experimental Mommy
Cool Baby Kid
Lipstick to Crayons
Two of a Kind
The Mom Buzz
All Because Two People Fell in Love
Rave and Review
Thrifty & Chic Mom
Little People Wealth

Visit www.doubledutydivas.com for additional information on the Diva blogger network.

Top Ten Toys of 2009: Bloggers List of Top Toys

2009-11-21T05:00:00.000-05:00

The Cool Baby Kid editors have officially begun shopping in an attempt to get ahead of the game this year. We've collaborated with our favorite blogger on the web, Bridgette from Experimental Mommy and partner on the Double Duty Divas, on the most important list of all--the hot holiday toys for 2009. After reviewing dozens of prospects and checking out the hottest toys for Christmas at the Time to Play event in October, we've narrowed the list to our Top Ten Toys of 2009 to help you choose from the myriad of prospects out there. Without further ado, our picks, in no particular order, are:

1. Tag and Tag Junior by Leapfrog

2. Zhu Zhu Pets by Cepia, LLC

3. Lifestyle Grand Walk-In Kitchen by Step 2

4. DS Lite or DSi by Nintendo

5. Explore & Grow Busy Ball Popper by Playskool

6. Smart Fit Park by Fisher Price

7. Netpal by Disney

8. Ripstick by Razor

9. Little Mommy Walk & Giggle Doll by Mattel

10. Just One Kiss Princess Tiana Doll, from Disney's Princess & the Frog by Mattel

So what toys are your little ones putting on their list and checking twice? Share in the Mr. Linky below and be sure to leave the gender and age of the child along with the link. (Girl, age 3, Little Mommy Doll)

Happy Two Year Anniversary Cool Baby Kid {$500 Giveaway}

2009-11-20T16:00:00.000-05:00

If you remember this logo, then you've been a Cool Baby Kid reader or partner for a long time.

Notorious for searching and over-researching every purchase, from stroller to the best baby gift, I created this site as way to share finds even though I had very little idea what a blog was at the time. With no intended audience other than friends and family, I set out to show them my purchases in a simple, easy to read format. While many mom blogs have evolved into review blogs, a genre becoming more popular each day, Cool Baby Kid, from it's inception, was never intended to share my children's lives or offer pithy commentary on being a mom. From the start it was a place to highlight cool picks and tips. End of story.

Two years later, with more than ten other ladies writing for Cool Baby Kid and testing out products, the blog has evolved into a certifiable hobby and part-time job. Though I long ago ran out of finds in my own house, to my surprise companies now contact our team for "reviews," though we like to think of our mini-articles as cool picks instead. But the vision is the same and quite simple--Cool Baby Kid continues to share, though albeit with a larger audience, cool picks, tips and of course giveaways for parents, babies and kids. We sure hope you've enjoyed reading.

Cecelia, CBK Editor-in-Chief

Extra Cool Giveaway: A two year blogoversary deserves a special giveaway. Announcing our annual *Unclaimed Prize Pack Giveaway* which rounds up all of the unclaimed prizes over the last year and offers them all to one lucky winner. Click on each product for additional information.

The *Unclaimed Prize Pack* is sponsored this year by Cool Baby Kid partner and all-time favorite for kids coats, Corky & Company, who generously donated this Boys Plaid Jacket & Hat set as a grand prize.

To enter, simply use the "Share This" button below this post to share the giveaway on Twitter, Facebook or the social media of your choice. Use @coolbabykid on Twitter, and remember to leave a comment on this posting telling us how you shared for each additional entry.

Unclaimed Prize Pack Giveaway
One Winner, Valued Over $500

Contest expires 11/23/09. Check out all of Cool Baby Kid's giveaways and be sure to subscribe for giveaway winner news and exclusive coupon codes. Looking for even more giveaways? head over to Cool Baby Kid's Holiday Gift Guide in conjunction with over 10 other bloggers for exclusive holiday gifts such as this Custom Argyle Beanie from Designer Baby Clothes.

Chatting with Dr. Oz: Mammography Guidelines, Hand Sanitizer Safety, and Is H1N1 Vaccine Safe for Kids?

2009-11-20T15:55:00.000-05:00

Today we had the opportunity to chat with Dr. Oz about keeping our families healthy this holiday season. Dr. Oz is both the star the Dr. Oz show on NBC each afternoon as well as the co-author of the You series of books.

New Mammography Guidelines

What does Dr. Oz think about the new guidelines? Tune in Monday as they offer a special look at this hot topic!

Hand Sanitizers

The biggest danger with hand sanitizers is in swallowing it. Soap and water is the best method for keeping clean, but hand sanitizers--alcohol based as opposed to anit-bacterial--are the next best option and better than coming into contact with germs.

Portion Control Tip

Watch alcohol and food intake over the holidays. Never walk around with both hand full. Be sure one is open to exchange greetings, and alternate alcohol with water which prevents overdoing it.

Flu & H1N1 Vaccine

If you feel the regular flu shot is safe then get the H1N1 shot for your children. Getting sufficient sleep and physical activity is important to boost the immune system. Obesity is immune suppressant so eating healthy. Natural options for keeping flu at bay for parents? Vitamin D and North American Ginseng for adults and broccoli for the whole family.

Staying Healthy on Airplanes

Because of air circulation the person one seat over and behind you receive the effects. One tip...put on air vent low above your head and aim it just below the chest and be sure to clean off the table in front of you with an anti-bacterial wipe. For hotels, take off the comforter since it is full of germs and either clean the remote control or put it in a plastic bag since it is full of germs.

Minimize Stress Over the Holidays

Get more sleep! Many people skip sleep at this time of year, so be sure to receive 7 to 7.5 hours each night. And a few minutes of stretching or focusing to re-set yourself each morning (yoga, mediation, exercise, etc.) is important to practice mental resilience. Exercising early in the day, though the first few minutes can be tough, is a great way to get yourself ready for the day.

Emotional Eating

Take 100 calories less per day than you would have otherwise is one simple strategy to get rid of the weight you would have otherwise gained.

My personal impression of Dr. Oz...this guy knows his stuff! Ask a question yourself or tune in to Oprah and Cool Baby Kid's favorite doctor on call.