Wow, last week was a great week! And now we’ve got 25 really wonderful products family-friendly products to share with you. That’s right! 25 recent Mom’s Choice Award-winners! From swimwear, to children’s books, to upgraded piñatas we’ve got an amazing list to share.
As you scroll through the products below, click the product image or purchase link to get more information about a particular product.
Every week companies, developers, publishers, and inventors from around the world send us their products for evaluation. We pair each product with parents and educators just like you, and they score based on a number of criteria. Only the best products and services earn our award. The items below won a Mom’s Choice Award during the week of October 9 – 15, 2016.
Time Timer PLUS
Unlike many traditional timers that fail to make the abstract concept of time concrete, the award-winning Time Timer’s visual depiction of “time remaining” provides stress-free time management at school and home to make every moment count.
The Time Timer PLUS features a rugged case and durable clear lens to protect its patented red disk. And the new on-the-go handle makes it easy to take the timer anywhere you go!
“Seeing” time elapse makes the Time Timer PLUS ideal for:
-Teaching children the concept of elapsed time
-Making homework and practice time more productive
-Reducing conflict in family and household routines
-Managing the stress of transitions by showing “how much longer”
-Using the same tool at home that teachers use in the classroom
-Increasing performance on testing and test preparations
-Transcending language and culture barriers
The Time Timer PLUS also features a new volume control dial for those times you need a louder alert when time is up and those when you prefer silence.
-Lightweight anti-static disk
-Silent operation
-Size: 5.5″ x 7″
-One AA battery required for operation (not included).
Educational Products:
Ages 5 to 8
Tidy Tots Essential Set
You’ll enjoy hassle free diapering with Tidy Tots! Appeal to Baby’s personality with trim and adorable diaper covers, and rely on its patented design and materials to provide a leak-free experience that keeps babies giggling away the days. Heavy wetters are no match for the soft hemp blend, No Fold™ Diapers and Boosters. Flushies® diaper liners, are truly a rock star, snapping into Tidy Tots® diaper covers, allowing them to quickly be removed. Just flush away the mess!
Yes, diapering can be that easy!
This Ick Free, Rash Free, And Leak Free, Diaper Set Contains:
4 No Fold™ Diapers – Super absorbent, no fuss 4 layer organic hemp blend diapers that snap into our covers with ease
4 Boosters – 4 ply organic hemp blend inserts to customize absorbency. Comes out in the wash, say goodbye to un-stuffing!
2 cute, comfortable, and Leak Free diaper covers with Smart Rise™ and TruFit™ snap closures for the absolute perfect fit everyday
1 roll of 100 biodegradable Flushies® diaper liners secures and protects the hemp diaper from the solids; just flush away the mess
1 Wetbag
One Size fits most 10-36 lbs.
Made In USA, at a facility that supports individuals with disabilities
Personal Use Products (Skin Care, Health Care, etc.):
Babies
Stargold the Food Fairy
Written by Claudia Lemay, Registered Dietitian; Illustrated by Chris Hamilton; Edited by Katy Quevillon
Stargold the Food Fairy is the perfect book for parents who constantly feel the need to say to their children, “No, we are not eating candies for dinner tonight.” The author is a Registered Dietitian who came up with the story of Stargold and Lucie the day she realised that “Because I said so!” was not a great answer when her children asked her, “But why not?”
The story uses a metaphor comparing the building of a house to the building of a person’s body in order to help young readers visualize the relationship between the foods we eat and how our bodies grow and develop. Each different food group and the nutrients held within represent a different building material for the metaphorical house, and only when the proper types of foods are eaten does the house, and thus the human body, grow healthy and strong. The book is also a great teaching tool for dietitians and educators who wish to explain the importance of nutrition to children in a fun, easy-to-understand manner.
Juvenile Books (Level 2 – Ages 9 to 12):
Tula Baby Carrier
Baby Tula is at the forefront of the modern babywearing industry with growing communities across the world. By combining chic designs, quality, ease of use, and ergonomic positioning, Baby Tula helps families keep doing what they love while holding their little one close!
The Tula Baby Carriers are made from 100% cotton canvas and quality fabrics that come in a wide range of prints. The Tula Baby Carrier is available in two sizes, Standard (Baby) and Toddler and can be used from birth with the use of the revolutionary Tula Infant Insert (sold separately). The Standard Tula Baby Carrier can be used for babies from 15-45 pounds and the Toddler Carrier can be used from 25-60 pounds. Every Tula Baby Carrier or Toddler Carrier can be used in front and back carry and provides an ergonomic M-position seat supporting optimal development for baby’s body.
Gear & Accessories:
Totes, Diaper Bags & Slings
Tip Top: Upton Charles-Dog Detective
Written by D.G. Stern; Illustrated by Deborah Allison
Mom’s Choice Awards awarded three books in the Upton Charles Dog Detective Series recently! They are all featured in this post! In Tip Top, the carnival is in town and the twins really want to go, although Upton is not too keen on the idea, until the Chief of Police calls and says that there has been a disappearance, the snake lady and all her snakes are gone. Upton, who is a Bichon Frise(that’s BEE-shon free-ZEY), a little white dog, knows his duty and joins the Charles’ to sniff out the missing reptiles, although he has no idea what a snake smells like. Actually, Upton doesn’t like snakes at all. Come along and enjoy the ride. Watch clues slither by as Upton solves the mystery of Tip Top.
Children’s Picture Books:
Domestic Animals & Pets
Ship Shape: Upton Charles-Dog Detective
Written by D.G. Stern; Illustrated by Deborah Allison
When the Chief of Police calls the Charles family to report that a brand new boat is missing from the boat show, Upton is recruited to apply his special dog detective skills. He wastes no time in sniffing out clues that lead to a surprising discovery. Join Upton as he unravels the mystery in Ship Shape.
Children’s Picture Books:
Domestic Animals & Pets
Lost Loot: Upton Charles-Dog Detective
Written by D.G. Stern; Illustrated by Deborah Allison
Upton loves to dig for clues, so it’s no surprise that he uncovers some unusual old coins when he and the rest of the Charles family are touring the construction site of the twins’ new school. With the help of a friend, a thorough search of the area is conducted and Upton’s efforts lead to the discovery of Lost Loot.
Children’s Picture Books:
Domestic Animals & Pets
The Kindred Bravely French Terry Bra
The Kindred Bravely French Terry racerback bra is ultra-soft, and the ultimate layer of comfort for pregnant and nursing women. No elastic or underwire means it stays feeling great all day and all night long!
It’s simple crossover front design and stretchy fabric makes a super comfy nursing and sleep bra with easy one-handed pull-aside breastfeeding access and gentle support. It is the ideal choice for night-time support and keeping breast pads in place. This bra is also a great choice for walking, yoga, or anytime you want light support and comfort. Whether pregnant, breastfeeding, or none-of-the-above, you will enjoy the comfort and style this bra offers and reach for it time and again from your drawer.
The Kindred Bravely Racerback Sleep Bra is designed to fit multiple cup sizes – perfect for the normal fluctuations experienced in breastfeeding moms! Keep the following size guide in mind, and if between sizes, order up for nursing mothers.
Available Colors Black, Ivory, Light Blue, Grey, Nude, & Pink
Made from French terry (92% Rayon of Bamboo, 8% Spandex)
It comes with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee: if you’ve removed the tags, worn it, washed, had it spit up on, or even gotten it pooped on (it’s happened) they will replace or refund it if you’re not happy. Plus 10% of the profits are donated to the March of Dimes.
Gear & Accessories:
Clothing
Stay Cool and In Control with the Keep-Calm Guru: Wise Ways for Children to Regulate their Emotions and Senses
Written by Lauren Brukner; Illustrated by Apsley
The Keep-Calm Guru, is an expert guide to the art of staying cool, calm, and in control in the face of overpowering feelings!
This illustrated book introduces wise ways for children to recognize and cope with anxiety, anger, frustration, and other difficult emotions. Using everything from yoga poses and pressure holds, to deep breathing and relaxing coloring activities, the Keep-Calm Guru shows kids how to take back control and feel cool, calm, and just right.
Suitable for children with sensory and emotional regulation difficulties aged approximately 7-14 years.
Juvenile Books (Level 2 – Ages 9 to 12):
Body, Mind & Spirit
Splash About Happy Nappy Wetsuit
Invented by UK baby swimwear specialist Splash About and designed in consultation with swim-schools, the Happy Nappy Wetsuit is innovative and unique; it’s the only wetsuit to integrate a swim-school approved, leak-proof swim diaper into the body of a wetsuit. The ‘Happy Nappy’ is Splash About’s award-winning swim diaper and the only brand insisted upon by 99% of UK swim schools due to its effectiveness at preventing facal leaks in the pool.
Made from supple neoprene with an elastane finish and suitable from birth to 24months; the Happy Nappy Wetsuit means no more leaving swim lessons early with shivering babies and no need to wear with disposable swim diapers – so it’s cost effective and eco-friendly too! It’s the perfect starter suit for baby swimming!
Gear & Accessories:
Clothing
Splash About UV All-in-One
Splash About’s UV All-in-One is specifically designed to protect delicate baby and toddler skin against the sun. Made from Nylon Lycra it’s ultra soft for all-day-wear and the fabric composition keeps little bodies cool while providing UPF50+ sun protection, and wind/sand protection on the beach.
This playsuit has a high neck, long sleeves and legs to protect vulnerable areas with under-leg poppers on baby sizes for easy diaper changing. For wriggling toddlers eager to play, it’s a bonus that sun cream is only needed on exposed skin!
The UV All-in-One is suitable from birth and specifically designed for babies and toddlers with sensitive skin, including eczema/dermatitis. The fabric has no harsh seams or fibers to catch on broken skin or sore irritated areas and it holds barrier creams in place rather than absorbing them into the material – even when your little one is in the water.
Lightweight, quick drying and space-saving in a suitcase/changing bag, it’s perfect for baby travel!
Gear & Accessories:
Clothing
Splash About UV Float Suit
Splash About’s UV Float Suit is the perfect learn-to-swim aid. With 16 adjustable floats buoyancy can be tailored offering flexibility for all swim abilities; from building water confidence to learning-to-swim independently.
The easy float system allows buoyancy to be individually tailored and gradually reduced; by removing the small foam floats evenly from the internal pockets centered around the chest and back of the suit – as the child learns to swim independently.
The UV Float Suit automatically positions the child correctly in the water for learning-to-swim, and allows complete freedom of movement with floats centered mid-chest and back, the arms are not restricted by water-wings or reliant on holding floats.
Suitable from 12months – 6 years, with full back zip for easy dressing, the UV Float Suit is made from soft stretchy fabric that provides the maximum UPF50+ sun protection and it won’t fade in the sun or after prolonged use in chlorinated water.
Gear & Accessories:
Sports / Outdoor
Splash About Happy Nappy
The most essential item in your baby’s swim bag is a Happy Nappy. An international best-seller from Splash About, this award-winning re-usable neoprene swim diaper is now available in the USA.
Suitable from birth to 24months, over 130,000 UK babies swim each week wearing a Happy Nappy; it’s the only brand insisted on by 99% of UK swim schools due to its effectiveness at preventing fecal leaks in the pool.
No need to wear a disposable swim diaper underneath; convenient, cost effective and environmentally-friendly!
Trusted by swim teachers and parents; no-leaks and stress-free swimming which ultimately means more fun in the pool for you and your baby!
Gear & Accessories:
Clothing
Splash About Anti-Bacterial Changing Mat
Restrooms and baby change areas are a breeding-ground for germs; Splash About’s Changing Mat with non-slip rubber backing and naturally anti-bacterial neoprene ensures babies are always changed on a clean, comfortable and safe surface.
Longer than regular changing mats and made from soft, heat-reflecting foam that keeps babies insulated from the cold, this changing mat is perfect for post-swimming. Babies need to be kept warm after coming out of the water; our changing mat helps to ease this transition and doesn’t absorb water.
The Splash About Anti-Bacterial Changing Mat is lightweight, rolls up easily and has a carry handle, plus it’s wipe clean and dries instantly making it ideal for moms on the move!
Gear & Accessories:
Safety
Robo Buddy
The further away from home you are, the less you’ll need to worry with Robo Buddy!
Whether you’re in the next hemisphere or on the same block, the awesome remote-controlled Robo Buddy — a fun toy, house monitor, and host — will give you a personal tour of your home to assure all’s well, facilitate free audio communication with loved ones, even bring a drink or a snack from room to room. It’s devoted to giving the best gift of all: peace of mind, and of course, sustenance.
Pick up your smartphone or your tablet, click on Robo Buddy’s complimentary app, and you can steer Robo Buddy to the stove to see it’s not on, to see your dog eating dinner, that your sitter is reading to your child, or to catch the most precious sight of all – your precious angels fast asleep. For older kids or the kid in each of us, Robo Buddy is a handy toy, always up for fun!
Thanks to its built-in Wifi connectivity, infrared vision, gyroscope sensors, and adjustable camera, the awesome Robo Buddy will be your “eyes” and “ears” 24/7, even in the darkest of rooms, and wherever there’s local Internet.
The sleek, easy-to-store Robo Buddy has a flip-up back compartment where you can fit a drink or snack and direct it to any member of your family. Imagine how thrilled you’ll be when Robo Buddy drives a snack straight to the couch!
Toys, Games & Puzzles:
Adults
productpure EA-free baby bottle
FIRST-OF-ITS KIND EA-FREE BABY BOTTLE ADDRESSES SAFETY CONCERNS WITH BPA-FREE PRODUCTS
In an exciting development for consumer product safety, productpure™ has released a unique, certified estrogenic activity free (EA-Free) baby bottle. Learn more about all the benefits of this wonderful baby bottle here.
Gear & Accessories:
Feeding
Once upon a Poodle
Written by Chrysa Smith; Illustrated by Pat Achilles; Edited by Laurel Garver
Once upon a Poodle tells the story of miniature poodle Woody, who goes on a hunt for a new brother. All sorts of adventures are in store as feathers fly, gardens are harvested and nuts are cracked in this endearing full color tale that embraces fun, problem-solving and learning what family is all about.
Children’s Picture Books:
Domestic Animals & Pets
My Grandmas Are Awesome
Written by Madonna Rice; Illustrated by Raye Ann Saunois
“My Grandmas Are Awesome” is a celebration of grandmas and the special bond they share with their grandchildren. It encourages readers to cherish and embrace the love and legacy passed down from generation to generation.
Juvenile Books (Level 1 – Ages 5 to 8):
Life’s Ocean: Nautical Analogies for Navigating Through Life
Written and illustrated by S. Finelli
Life is filled with both perils and pearls and, like the ocean, it is an adventure to ride the waves and unravel its many mysteries. Realizing that we are part of vastness of the sea will keep us connected with all that exists. This book shares how, as captains of our own ships, we can more successfully navigate through life’s waters.
Young Adult Books:
Inspirational / Motivational
Happy Salmon
Happy Salmon is the simple, fast-paced card game packed with high-fivin’, fin-flappin’ foolishness. With mini-celebrations built into the gameplay, Happy Salmon is the happiest game of all time!
There are no turns. Players call out the action shown on their cards as fast as they can. When two players have a match, they celebrate by performing that action. Actions include the classic “High 5”, the cool “Pound It”, the frantic “Switcheroo”, and the delightful “Happy Salmon”. Each time a player celebrates a match, they quickly discard a card. The first person to get rid of all their cards wins. The unique game-play encourages everyone in the family, young and old, to get up and get active during play.
The “FIN-tastically” cute and innovative fish pouch makes Happy Salmon perfect to take to family get-togethers, camp, or if you are just traveling upstream.
Happy Salmon has been honored with the American Specialty Toy Retailers Association Best Toys for Kids award, and The Toy Insider stated that it is “Easily one of the best games of the year…or ever!”
Happy Salmon is available at specialty toy stores.
Toys, Games & Puzzles:
Ages 5 to 8
Goodnight, Sleepy Animals
Written by Chouette Publishing; Illustrated by Christine Battuz
This whimsical board book incorporates a night-light so children can read while pressing a soft plastic, glowing moon. Each illumination lasts a few seconds, then gently fades away. The charming story gives readers a peek at forest creatures sleeping under the moon. Perfect for bedtime snuggles! Suitable for children aged 3 and older.
Children’s Picture Books:
Bedtime Stories
Goodie Gusher
Goodie Gusher is the super-safe alternative to the Piñata. To get the party popping, just fill it with candy and prizes, hang it up and let the fun begin. Kids take turns trying to select the Magic Key. Once the Magic Key is pulled it will automatically release a wide shower of party treats!
Features & Benefits:
• Easy to fill & easy to hang
• Works every-time with 2-15 players
• Use indoor or outdoor
• Super-safe and fun for all ages
• Refillable to keep the party going
• A different Magic Key each time
Goodie Gusher is the key to party fun!
Toys, Games & Puzzles:
Ages 5 to 8
Dolly Becomes a Scout
Written by Kay Whitehouse; Illustrated by Mark Wayne Adams; Edited by Jennifer Thomas
An intriguing series told from the perspective of a hand truck, “Dolly Becomes a Scout” will capture the interest and hearts of readers, ages 5-11. She becomes entwined in all aspects of her family’s life and they begin to treat her like she’s one of the 3 kids, ages 3, 6 & 8. Dolly is strong, dependable, and brave. Each book is laced with spelling words and word games and puzzles included in each book along with a brief discussion on topics in the books. The kid language and Dolly’s sense of humor is a big hit with children.
Juvenile Books (Level 1 – Ages 5 to 8):
A Night at the North Pole
Written by Portia Hicks; Illustrated by Cynthia Meadows
All You Have to do is Believe! Jack and his brother, Jess, are excited about Christmas. But Jack can’t shake his questions. Where does Santa live? Is he even real? Before Jack can drift off into a fitful night’s sleep, Tilly the Elf and Buck the Reindeer come to whisk him away for an adventurous night at the North Pole. From reindeer parades to flavored-snowball fights, Christmas tree forests to hot chocolate fountains and meeting Santa Claus, Jack discovers all the wonder and whimsy of life at the North Pole. Cynthia Meadows’s colorful illustrations bring the magic of Christmas right to the page, making this tale a Christmas classic. Join Jack for an adventurous night at the North Pole in his quest to meet Santa.
Juvenile Books (Level 1 – Ages 5 to 8):
Fiction – General
10 Secrets of Being a Lady
Written by Written by Sheba Matheu; Illustrated by Illustrated by Meredith Rushing; Edited by Edited by Emily Leinfuss
10 Secrets of Being a Lady is a children’s book for all ages that reminds women of their roles in society.
Have you ever wanted to remind loved ones about the importance of believing in themselves, but can’t find the right words? Or, have you needed simple steps reminding you to put forth your best-self at all times. If so, then whether you are 2 or 82, join Ava and her mother as they explore the importance of both believing in yourself and becoming your best self in 10 Secrets of Being a Lady. The story was expressly created to encourage dialogue and impart wisdom through family generations.
Opening the cover of this beautiful story you will meet a little girl named Ava who, like many young girls, loves secrets. Ava’s mother, who works tirelessly to guide her daughter, realizes the time has come to share her secrets with her daughter about putting forth her best. The mother creates this special book from the same life lessons that she learned from her mother. The character strengths discussed 10 Secrets of Being a Lady range from radiating confidence and being sincere to speaking deliberately and maintaining your appearance.
With every purchase a 25% donation will be made to Girls Inc.
Children’s Picture Books:
Developing Social Skills
3 Comments on “Weekly Roundup: Swimwear, Baby Gear, Games, Toys, Books, & More! Oct 9 – 15”
I love reading about all the books,reading is so important!
Love reading your weekly roundups, always such great products and wonderful books.
:) Thanks Sherry!