September is Baby Safety Month, and if there’s one thing parents can’t compromise on, it’s car seat safety. Whether you’re a first-time parent still trying to figure out how to buckle in that tiny newborn or a seasoned pro who’s been through more car seats than you can count, we all know that keeping our kids safe on the road is a top priority. This is the perfect time to understand what really matters when choosing the right car seat so that our kiddos are snug and secure every time we hit the road. 

Choosing Your Ideal Infant Car Seat

Selecting the perfect infant car seat can feel a bit overwhelming, especially with all the options out there. But the key to finding your ideal seat is considering your lifestyle, the size of your car, and your family’s specific needs. Are you constantly on the go, needing a seat that’s easy to move from car to stroller? Or do you prioritize long-term use, looking for a car seat that can grow with your child? Whatever your situation, there are features designed to make your life easier and your baby’s ride more comfortable.

When shopping for an infant car seat, look for features that align with how you’ll be using it. Easy installation is a must for parents who frequently switch the car seat between vehicles, especially when grandparents are helping out with pick-ups and drop-offs. An adjustable headrest height is perfect for growing babies, ensuring they’re always properly supported. If convenience is key, a seat that rotates can be a game-changer, making it simpler to get your baby in and out of the car. 

For parents who love to multitask, consider a car seat that docks directly into your stroller, allowing you to seamlessly transition from driving to walking with ease. Comfort is crucial, too, so opt for soft, breathable fabrics and a soft carrier handle for those moments when you’re carrying the seat. A UV sunshade is a bonus for those sunny days, and a modular base that works with both infant and toddler car seats ensures that your investment lasts as your child grows. 

Understanding Government Regulations for Baby Safety

When it comes to keeping your baby safe on the road, understanding and adhering to government regulations is essential. Before you select an infant car seat, make sure it meets and exceeds all safety standards set by key organizations like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), ASTM International, and the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS). These regulations are designed to ensure that every car seat on the market provides maximum protection in the event of an accident. Additionally, it’s important to pay attention to the fabrics and materials used in the car seat. Look for seats that have been tested and certified by Oeko-Tex® and the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) to ensure they are free from harmful levels of toxic substances. 

Orbit Baby G5: A Car Seat That Puts Parents and Babies First

The Orbit Baby G5 is designed to make every journey with your little one both safe and comfortable, offering thoughtful features that cater to both baby and parent. Ideal for infants weighing 4-30 pounds and measuring 17-32 inches, this car seat includes an infant insert to keep even the tiniest passengers snug and secure.

One of the standout features of the Orbit Baby G5 is its innovative docking and rotating mechanism. This design allows the seat to rotate into position, saving parents from unnecessary back strain—a game-changer when you’re constantly moving between the car and stroller. Speaking of strollers, the G5 is fully compatible with all Orbit Baby strollers, making it a breeze to transition from car to foot, no matter where your day takes you.

The G5 is also built with safety at its core. Its deep cradle design offers superior side-impact protection, while the adjustable headrest height ensures your baby is always properly supported as they grow. The durable 5-point harness keeps your little one securely in place, and magnetic buckle holders make getting them in and out of the seat hassle-free. Plus, for parents who travel frequently, the off-base car seat installation feature adds a layer of convenience and enhanced safety.

Safety Features You Might Not Think About

When you’re shopping for a luxury car seat, some of the most valuable safety features might not stand out at first glance. The Merino Wool Infant Car Seat in the Orbit Baby G5 is a perfect example. The Merino wool fabric naturally regulates your baby’s temperature, keeping them comfortable year-round. It’s also hypoallergenic, making it a great choice for babies with sensitive skin. Plus, the eco-friendly, non-toxic materials are free from flame retardants, ensuring your baby is surrounded by only the safest materials. It’s a blend of luxury and safety that goes beyond the obvious.

Don’t Forget to Register Your Car Seat

Before you hit the road, there’s one final step you can’t skip—registering your car seat. Car seats can be recalled for safety reasons, and registering yours ensures that you’ll be notified if this ever happens. It’s a quick and easy process that could make all the difference in keeping your baby safe. You can call the manufacturer’s customer service line, which is listed on your car seat labels, or visit the manufacturer’s website to register. It’s a simple step that offers peace of mind every time you buckle up.

I feel that summer just zoomed by! But, it’s almost September and many schools start soon (and some have already started). Here are some of my favorite items for this time of year!

Recently named one of Parents Magazine’s “Best Snacks For Kids,” Mavericks is quickly becoming a household name for families seeking high quality, all natural, non-GMO options. Known for their plant-based, bolt shaped cookies in crave-worthy flavors like Birthday Cake and Double Chocolate, Mavericks is once again shaking up the snack aisle with the launch of their brand-new Sandwich Crackers, exclusively hitting Whole Foods Market stores nationwide this summer. These are really good! I love the peanut butter ones!

They are available at Whole Foods Market stores in a “sharing size” 7 oz. box for $5.99 and convenient, on-the-go 36g snack packs, which come in a box for $7.99. To learn more visit https://mavericksnacks.com/

PowKids

Price: $39.99

Website: www.PowKidsHealth.com

Raising powerful kids! Formulated by a Registered Dietitian and Chemist, PowKids was designed specifically for children to help kids get the nutrients they need for their growing bodies, according to their age. Available in two varieties, including Clear Protein in Passionberry and Chocolate, each protein powder is made with organic ingredients, boasts 18g grass fed whey protein, and contains no added sugar.  In addition, each protein powder contains added choline to foster brain development – perfect for keeping your kids fueled during the day! It’s simple, just add 1 scoop per 4-6oz of your choice of milk or juice. Shake until dissolved and enjoy Learn more at www.PowKidsHealth.com.  The chocolate is pretty delicious too!

Keep Going First Aid Kit

Price: $14.99 (KidsKit) and up

Whether your adventures take you around the world or close to home, the handy, compact Keep Going First Aid Kit has 130 pieces of essential first aid supplies. From burn relief to bandages, your family will be ready for anything! TSA approved, the lightweight kit is packaged in an organized, stylish water & stain-resistant case for at home or on-the-go. Created by a mom of four for parents, travel and adventure loving families, the Keep Going First Aid Kit is an essential for the entire family. Four kits are available, including the SuperKit (270 pieces), NEW Adult GoKit (130 pieces), GoKit (130 pieces), NEW MiniKit (60 pieces) and KidsKit (44 pieces). A variety of stylish, trendy patterns and colors are available, such as the NEW Traveler and NEW Minimalist. The kits can be found on the website https://www.keepgoingfirstaid.com/ and on Amazon.com. 

Smart Dreams Pajamas

Price: $46.00 PJ Set and Cards, $5.00 Bag

Website:  Smart Dreams™ | Bedtime + Education = Smart Dreams™ (havesmartdreams.com)

Turn bedtime into a fun and educational experience for your little ones! Smart Dreams Pajamas feature educational prints specifically designed for your child’s age. Each pair of pajamas arrives with coordinating fun flash cards! It is a perfect new bedtime routine. The “shop by age” feature automatically matches parents with age-appropriate learning prints. Younger learners benefit from Smart Dreams cards that focus on fundamental concepts, featuring vibrant colors and basic shapes, while older children are provided with more advanced cards that explore complex subjects like math, language, and science. The Smart Dreams team thought about every detail by consulting with teachers while designing each and every pajama set. Parents can be confident that these products are not only entertaining but also contribute to their child’s development and learning journey. Made with 100% GOTS certified organic cotton, the pajamas are super-soft and safe for your child’s skin. The pajamas have been created with a hand-me-down mind set – love it, use it, and pass it down! Available in size 2-12 in a variety of gorgeous prints & patterns. Learn more at Smart Dreams™ | Bedtime + Education = Smart Dreams™ (havesmartdreams.com). I just love the fun flash cards!

Glass Prep Jars

Price: $19.96 and up

Website: www.KeaBabies.com

Make and prep meals and snacks for your children with the Glass Prep Jars from KeaBabies! From perfectly portioned yogurt + fruit, applesauce, and small finger foods, such as crackers, the airtight, leak-proof lids seal in freshness and prevent spills while on-the-go! The perfect homemade food storage solution for you and your children are available in an array of gorgeous colors. The jars are dishwasher-safe, freezer-safe and microwavable, too. BPA-Free. https://keababies.com/collections/baby-food-jar

These are great for adults too! I am using them all of the time!

Sodee Pop, The Fizzy Drink Without the Junk!

Finally – a clean, alternative to mainstream soda that parents can offer their children and feel guilt free about! Created by a mom and nurse who cares what we put in our bodies, Sodee Pop does not contain high fructose corn syrup, dyes or artificial colors (the root beer is clear), or chemical preservatives. Orange Fizz is the ultimate fizzy delight for kids! Quench their thirst with this blend of sweet, smooth and bubbly organic orange juice and carbonated water packed into every 8oz. can. With a bright burst of flavor in every sip, Orange Fizz is the perfect treat for young taste buds seeking a refreshing adventure. Root Beer is a fizzy beverage that’s as pure as it is delicious! Imagine the classic root beer flavor you love, now in a pristine, transparent form! That’s right…. IT IS CLEAR! Say goodbye to artificial dyes and coloring because this clean soda brings all the flavor without any added extras, just carbonated water and organic root beer flavor. Sodee Pop is available in 8oz cans in Orange Fizz and Root Beer, with new Lemon-Lime Squeeze debuting soon. Learn more at SODEE POP, The Fizzy Drink Without The Junk! – Sodee Pop (drinksodeepop.com).

Bahamii Date & Almond Bars

Delicious, fiber-rich and perfect for on-the-go lifestyles, Bahamii Date & Almond Bars use 7 or less superfood ingredients – with dates as the #1 ingredient – to fuel your busy day! With a low glycemic index for steady energy, the bars are diabetic-friendly and are made with minimal, clean and simple ingredients. Enjoy a bar with your morning coffee, tuck one in your gym bag for a quick pick-me-up or take along while hiking and camping! Bahamii Date & Almond Bars are gluten-free, plant-based, vegan, kosher, and Non-GMO certified. The bars do not contain artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners, or preservatives. Available in three delicious flavors, including Chocolate Almond, Coconut Vanilla, and Honey Cinnamon. Learn more at www.Bahamii.com. 

Schär Gluten Free!  is a must-try if you are looking for Gluten Free bread! They also have tasty Artisanal Bread,  muffins, pretzels, and ciabatta! My absolute favorite is the ciabatta bread!

About Schär

For more than 100 years, Dr. Schär’s mission has been to improve the lives of people with special nutritional needs. Dr. Schär USA, Inc. is committed to providing great-tasting gluten-free food to the celiac, gluten-sensitive sensitive and IBS communities—offering a safe, flavorful, and high-quality line of gluten-free products. Schär has over 20,000 doors in the US and retailers including Walmart, Kroger, Sprouts, Whole Foods, ShopRite, Stop & Shop, and many more. The full portfolio of products spans from bread, cookies, candy, and crackers to frozen items, including puff pastry dough and croissants! The new soy-free Artisan Baker Breads further solidifies the commitment to trust among consumers with food allergies.

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this back-to-school post. Images and information were also provided and I only post products that I highly recommend.

New Textured Sensory Labels from Mabel’s Labels

Price: $19 and up

Website: https://mabelslabels.com/textured-sensory-labels

Help ease your child’s anxiety and fears about being away from home with the NEW Textured Sensory Labels from the parent-loved brand Mabel’s Labels! These personalized name labels have textured surfaces and cute designs, plus they keep little hands busy, allowing for more focus and concentration (plus, no more lost stuff!) Choose from 8 fun design options! 1 sheet contains 3 large labels. View the entire collection of school label packs online at www.mabelslabels.com.  They are perfect on water bottles, lunch boxes and so much more this school year!

Think gluten-free means flavor-free? Think again. There’s a new cookie in town, and it’s taking the snack world by storm. These come in 7 different flavors and they are actually delicious! My favorite is the Peanut Butter! But, the Chocolate Chip comes in a close second!

Say hello to award-winning Mightylicious, the hand-crafted cookie that truly has it all: amazing flavor, perfect texture, clean ingredients, Certified Vegan, Kosher, Gluten-free and non-GMO.  —everything you want in a cookie except the gluten.

What sets these decadent cookies apart from the rest is their surprising deliciousness. Everyone is singing the praises of Mightylicious, not just people with celiac disease and health-conscious snackers, but anyone who simply can’t resist a good cookie.

I love that these are individually wrapped!

The Mightylicious story

A cookie lover who was diagnosed with celiac disease in 2012, Carolyn spent years seeking out gluten-free cookie brands. One busy holiday season, she was disappointed yet again when a gluten-free cookie crumbled entirely after one bite.

“That’s when I realized there had to be a better way,” says Carolyn, a married mom, member of the LGBTQ community, and one smart cookie herself. “I was determined to create a cookie that was gluten-free, healthy, and above all, irresistibly delicious.”

The Mightylicious line features 7 varieties in all, including 4 vegan options: New Double Dutch Chocolate Chip and Oatmeal Raisin Vegan, as well as Chocolate Chip and Grandma Arline’s Oatmeal Coconut.

Also available are Brown Butter Chocolate Chip and Brown Butter Shortbread (both dairy), and Salted Peanut Butter (grain and dairy-free). Each bag contains individually wrapped cookies to maintain maximum freshness.  (6.4 oz bag, MSRP: $7.99)

Find Mightylicious online and in retail outlets including Walmart (231 outlets nationwide), Whole Foods, Costco, King’s, Price Chopper, and more. Available to hospitality and foodservice. BACK2SCHOOL24 – 30% off sitewide through AUGUST, 2024!

Looking for back-to-school essentials? Cra-Z-Art has you covered! I love their markers and colored pencils! They are absolutely favorites of mine!

Art and creativity play a crucial role in a child’s development, enhancing their ability to express themselves, solve problems, and think critically. Cra-Z-Art’s Back-to-School collection is not just about providing supplies; it’s about fostering an environment where creativity can thrive, both in and out of the classroom.

Why Cra-Z-Art?

Cra-Z-Art has long been a trusted name in the world of art supplies, known for our commitment to quality, innovation, and affordability. Here’s why our products stand out:

• Vivid Colors: Our crayons, markers, and colored pencils boast rich, vibrant colors that make every project pop.
• Durability: Cra-Z-Art products are made to last, with durable tips on markers and strong leads in pencils that resist breaking.
• Safety: All our art supplies are non-toxic, making them safe for use by young children.
• Variety: From classic crayons to neon markers, our diverse range ensures there’s something for every creative mind.

Featured Products:

1. Cra-Z-Art Crayons: Smooth and blendable, perfect for shading and mixing colors. Available in classic and unique color packs.
2. Cra-Z-Art Markers: Bold, washable markers ideal for both school projects and home crafts.
3. Cra-Z-Art Colored Pencils: Pre-sharpened with high-quality pigments, ensuring vibrant and precise drawings.
4. Cra-Z-Art Coloring Books: Filled with fun and educational designs, encouraging imagination and relaxation.

The lunch box has entered the 21^st century with an on-the-go “P”B&J Sando from Rudi’s Bakery and Voyage Foods using Voyage’s Roasted Seed Spread and Rudi’s bread, making it entirely nut-free, safe for schools, and safe for clean eaters everywhere.

Rudi’s Rocky Mountain Bakery, known for its selection of organic and gluten-free breads and frozen innovations including Texas Toast and Breakfast Sandwiches, is thrilled to announce the launch of nut-free Sandos made with Rudi’s Signature Country Morning White Bread and Voyage’s Roasted Seed Spread. Available at Whole Food Market nationally. To find Sandos near you following the brand’s official launch in May, please visit: https://rudisbakery.com/store-locator/.

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this back-to-school featured post. Images and information were also provided!

Have a wonderful school year and stay tuned for more back-to-school featured products!

Grandpa Gus offers a range of natural and effective pest control solutions across mosquito, rodent, and insect categories, including pouches, powders, and sprays.

I had the opportunity to try out the Natural & Kid-Safe Mosquito Bracelets and was happy to find that they work really well!

They just released a glow in the dark version! Great for those long summer nights! These were my favorites!

Hope you are having a fun summer!

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this summer themed post. Images were also provided.

If you are looking for a personalized custom portrait such as a Pet Portrait, Goose and Pebble has you covered! I recently received a portrait of me and my pup and I love it! Melissa Lee is the owner of this wonderful small business. Her portraits will make a great gift!

 Melissa also offers digital downloads for purchase, and every purchase of a physical print gets a complimentary digital download as well. This will be handy for people who urgently need their portrait by a certain date (for a special occasion etc.)

Besides custom portraits and the option to add personalized text to their portraits, she also has Baby Birth Posters available in the shop: https://gooseandpebble.com/products/custom-baby-birth-posters

Check out Goose and Pebble for custom hand-drawn portraits!

Self Disclosure: I received a free portrait to facilitate this post.

I don’t know about you but during the summer is when I get the most bug bites and so do my family members! This first product really is a must-buy! It really works!

Insect bites and stings are a part of nature, particularly in the summer months. Mosquitoes, ants, and flies are often uninvited guests while at barbeques, bonfires, or camping. Stop the itch from bites and stings in seconds and accelerate the healing process.

Beurer, a leader in the digital health and wellness space for more than 100 years, provides technology to embrace the outdoors free of itch with Beurer’s Insect Sting and Bite Relief. This innovative device is a chemical-free solution that works harmoniously with your body’s own healing processes to provide soothing sensation and rapid relief that only nature’s remedies can provide, a safe and effective way to care for your skin without compromising on quality or efficacy.

AND ALL NEW THIS SEASON…The Beurer BR90 Insect Bite Healer with a light for more accurate targeting, for use day or night!

• Can help stop the itch & reduce the swelling through ceramic hot plate technology
• Integrated LED light for easy application in the dark
• Chemical free – suitable for use during pregnancy
• 2 Treatment Programs – for sensitive skin (3 seconds) and regular use (6 seconds)

You can find more information and gifts at: https://www.shop-beurer.com/ and on Amazon, Walmart.com and other national drug stores and independent retailers.

To learn more about Beurer’s digital medicine cabinet offerings, as well as its extensive range of wellness technologies, from heating and menstrual to insect sting relief technologies, visit shop-beurer.com and Beurer North America on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.

This is a product everyone needs and I love that it is perfect to take on summer hikes and summer trips! It’s easy to use and very effective!

Cool Little Ones, is cool little moisture wicking clothes for all day play. They are perfect for Summer, travel or really, anytime.

Cool Little Ones is inspired by the idea of little ones playing outside, being creative and exploring all that the world has to offer.

During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Glenna Devonport did what most were doing and went on multiple walks a day with her kids. Despite trying to take early or late walks before it got too hot, Glenna noticed that both her boys were always sweating. She thought, “If we as adults are wearing moisture wicking, cute workout clothes, why aren’t our Little Ones?” There sprouted the idea for a cute, comfortable and moisture wicking kids clothing line!

Cool Little Ones clothes can be worn on any outdoor adventure including the beach, pool, lake, sport practices, hiking, camping, playing at the park and are made for All Day Play! The clothes have cute designs, are easy to pack for trips, stretch, take up little space, are comfortable and they dry extremely fast!

The designs take the idea of a simple rash guard and elevate it to make it the most versatile piece of clothing in your Little One’s closet.  From basic tees, rash guards and shorts to onesies, dresses and headbands, your kids will be cool and comfortable this Summer!

Cool Little Ones are the perfect addition for any outdoor occasion and most of the items are UPF 50 Sun Safe. All of the products are proudly manufactured in the United States of America. Future goals include to have 100% of our clothes UPF 50 Sun Safe and to make more clothes out of recycled materials…and to expand across the country in 2024!

For more information, please visit: https://coollittleones.com/

Happy Summer! Stay tuned! Next week I will be featuring more summer must-haves!

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this seasonal post. Images were also provided.

Summer is almost officially here! The kids will have fun with these toys!

Vango #UpsideDownChallenge Backyard Edition MSRP $29.99 | Ages 8+ | Available on Amazon This summer, game night is about to be flipped upside down! Players attempt to complete seemingly easy activities such as tossing a ball into a cup, stacking cups into a pyramid or even just walking through an obstacle course made out of rings while wearing goggles that flip your vision upside down. It’s fantastic for game night, backyard barbecues, and picnics and will create hours of laughter and entertainment!  This is so much fun at family get-togethers!

Jumbo Group Hitster MSRP $19.99 | Ages 16+ | Available on Target 

Take a trip down memory lane with 300 hits from the last 100 years. By scanning a card with the free app, players take turns guessing the release date, artist name and song title to build their music timeline! Everything from AC/DC to Bruce Springsteen to Harry Styles and Backstreet Boys, the game play is simple but a ton of fun! First with a timeline of 10 songs wins! Moms and Dads will even love this one!

Squaregles Building Set | MSRP $44.99- $89.99 | Ages 3+ | Available on Amazon & Squaregles.com– You’ll get the chance to build and explore with one of their popular building sets all summer long! Build, then race the Oggs cars or doodle your own pictures on the paperboard panels and add them to the build! Take it outside and build on the deck or driveway, or even bring them along to the playground! The magnetic frames stick to the playset for even more building adventures! This will keep younger kids entertained this Summer!

PLAYMOBIL Camping Playsets | MSRP $14.99 – $29.99 | Ages 4 – 10 | Available on Amazon and Playmobil.com

Have some real . . and imaginative fun – with these new summertime themes including Barbeque, Camping with Campfire, and Mountain Bike Tour. My favorite is the Camping set!

PLAYMOBIL – Mermaids Sea Horse Carriage | MSRP $29.99| Ages 4+ | Available on Amazon

Seahorses pull and guide a carriage through the water, perfect for little mermaids who want to take a break from swimming! Kids use their imagination passing colorful coral reef and fellow sea creatures! Includes two PLAYMOBIL mermaids, baby seahorse, starfish shells and more beautifully detailed accessories.

This next one is perfect for young children and travels this Summer!

Bumpas Mushies MSRP $14.99 | Ages 3+ | Available May on Amazon & MyBumpas.com

Stretch, Pop, and Hug with Bumpas™ Mushies: a soft, comfortable, and squishy plush doll with extendable and retractable long arms and legs! This plush toy is the perfect size to take on trips as your kids little companion and also a great MESH toy that eases travel anxiety and antsy kids!

Happy Summer!

Self Disclosure: I received free samples of the above products to facilitate this post. Images and information were also provided.

From spicy to sweet, Sweet Chaos has a gluten-free choice that Dad will love! Try the NEW Dill Pickle variety or stick to more traditional favorites like Movie Theater Butter, White Cheddar or Sea Salt. Sweet Chaos hand pops their NON-GMO kernels in coconut oil for a creamy richness while skipping the nasty, artificial stuff.  In addition to Movie Theater Butter and Sea Salt, exciting flavors include NEW Dill Pickle (made with real dill & vinegar), Jalapeno Blue Cheese, Kettle Corn and White Cheddar. 

View the collection: https://sweetchaos.com/popcorn/

Price: $3.00 per bag

Wiley Wallaby Licorice

Wiley Wallaby offers a large variety of soft and chewy licorice and sourrageous drops that satisfy Dad’s cravings for a sweet treat! Less sugar, fat -free and absolutely no dairy or high fructose corn syrup makes Wiley Wallaby the candy you feel better about gifting dad, too. Wiley Wallaby Sourrageous Drops have a chewy red inside with a sour crunchy outside! Three fruity flavors – Watermelon, Green Apple & Lemon – keep your taste buds on their toes. Wiley Wallaby Licorice is thick, chunky and super-soft, making this gourmet licorice a favorite! Choose from delightful flavors such as Blasted Berry, Watermelon, and Blueberry Pomegranate to nosh on and enjoy! 

View the collection: www.wileywallaby.comand Amazon.com

Price: $5.99

Happy Father’s Day!

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this holiday post. Info and images were also provided.