Real Mom Reviews
Being a New Parent by Papersalt
Those giant manuals for new parents can be pretty intimidating. This short and sweet version gives realistic parenting advice that will help you relax before Baby arrives—and smile through the early, sleep-deprived weeks. This little coil-bound book would be a perfect baby shower gift and even suggests that you add your own notes and pass it on to another expecting parent. $12.95, www.Papersalt.com
The Honest Toddler: A Child’s Guide to Parenting by Bunmi Laditan
Anyone who has raised a child through the toddler years will tell you that you’ll need some comic relief. Do yourself a favor and keep this book in your stash, even if your baby won’t hit the toddler stage for a while. Written from an outspoken toddler’s perspective, this book will teach you all about weaning yourself off sleep and which foods are approved for toddler consumption (cake, juice and jelly beans are good; lentils not so much). $19.99, www.SimonAndSchuster.com
Noodle & Boo Baby Care
My babies have sensitive skin, so we are limited when it comes to which products can be used in our home. This skin care line is free of questionable ingredients, is hypoallergenic and has been clinically tested to minimize the risk of allergic reaction. Noodle & Boo has been a welcome find for our little ones. $12-$16, www.NoodleAndBoo.com
Flat Out of Heels
If you are a working mom-to-be, chances are your feet need a break on a daily basis! These little shoes can be rolled small enough to fit in the average purse and will keep you looking professional when you can no longer tolerate heels. They’re also a great backup pair of shoes to keep in the diaper bag—any mom will tell you that you can never be over-prepared! $19.99, www.FlatOutOfHeels.com
Beaba Sac Open Diaper Bag
Believe it or not, your choice of diaper bag has a lasting effect on you and your child! It’s your new purse, and it now must contain all your necessities PLUS diapers, wipes, lotions, extra clothes, pacifiers, toys and snacks. This bag opens extra wide to aid in finding lost items. It’s water resistant, has nine storage pockets and comes with a pacifier case, changing mat and dirty laundry bag (great for cloth diapering mamas)! $99.95, www.Amazon.com
Julie McKinley is a stay-at-home mom of a 2-year-old son and infant daughter. Keeping up with her kids is a full-time job, so she is always on the lookout for innovative baby products that make life a little easier! In between snuggles and diaper changes, she blogs at www.DirectorJewels.com.