Mommy's little helper.
Contrary to popular belief, regular exercise is encouraged by doctors for expecting moms because it can help a woman stay healthy and alleviate some of the discomforts like stiffness, back pain, leg cramping, or constipation. I love how the following famous females are staying active during their pregnancy but not overdoing it. Let's see who they are!
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My nephew is as sweet as sweet can be. But, from the moment I take him outside to go for a walk, it's like chasing after an Olympic runner. I can't figure out how he can shift so quickly from being calm and collected to acting like someone who just escaped from a mental asylum.
I've learned that once kids begin to walk, they no longer want to feel the restrictions of a hand, a stroller, a harness, or anything else that undermines their new-found freedom. But because a parent's number-one priority is the safety of her child, it's often difficult to keep a toddler close and safe while still allowing them to roam free.
Snack time is often a blessing for moms because it keeps tots quiet, content, and occupied for at least a few minutes of the day — just enough time to make yourself a snack or put your feet up! But similar to breakfast, lunch, or dinner, snack time often means sticky hands, crushed crackers in the carpet, and spills you wish would just magically disappear. No more! Your cleanup count will drastically drop with the following inventions that keep food where it belongs — in the bowl, plate, or cup it was served in, and in your toddler's mouth. Ta-da!
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Living in a landlocked city when the temps are through the roof isn't the most appealing way to spend your Summer. Add kids to the mix and you'll find yourself on a first-name basis with the staff at the local pool! But what happens if you don't have access to a public pool, or lake, or ocean, or anything else that can instantly cool you (I mean, your kids) off? If you have a plot of grass and a garden hose, the following water-friendly devices will turn up the fun factor in any backyard on a hot Summer's day.
Source: Flickr User st501351
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With road trips, soccer practice runs, grabbing groceries, daycare drop-offs, and more, it's important that your car is economical, built to last, and offers some family-friendly features to make it easier for you to transport your tots. The good news is more car companies are incorporating nifty kid-oriented characteristics into their cars to qualify a vehicle as a family car. And because of this, parents are left with a wide variety of choices to suit their particular needs. Here are some 2011 models that are taking the "kid-friendly" motto to a whole new level.
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Clockwise from top left: Porcelian Tea Set ($17), Tin Tea Set ($20), It's a Party Tea Set ($12), Children's Tea for Two Set ($40), Rosanna Tea For Me Too Set ($50)
There are ebook apps for kids, online social networking sites and videos created just for kids, and even iPhone apps to inspire the artist within your child — needless to say, if you want it, there is an app, website, or gadget that's probably got it.
Next up? The iPad. If you've purchased one of Apple's latest inventions, and you can't keep it out of your child's hands — don't worry. There are lots of ways to keep it safe and protected — and rather than let them sneak a peek at your apps, why not download some apps that will keep them captivated and intellectually stimulated at the same time? Here are some of my top picks, best suited for kids ages 1-5.
Source: Flickr User Toca Boca
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They're huggable, lovable, extremely cozy and soft, and kids love 'em. The irresistible playful pals I'm referring to are buddy blankets. Unlike regular baby blankets, buddy blankets are a bit smaller, usually come trimmed in satin, and have an adorable plush animal attached to them.
Because of their two-in-one appeal — featuring a blanket and cuddly stuffed animal in one — it's no wonder kids go gaga over them. Most are machine washable and dryable, so they are low maintenance for mama, and because they are smaller than traditional blankets, you don't have to worry about your little one dragging it on the floor or the ground outside.
For the perfect gift, or an addition to your baby's crib, here are some different animals and colors to choose from!
The muggy, warm weather has arrived. And for moms, this can mean trying to calm a baby in a hot stroller while out running errands. Baby carriers — unlike slings, which are worn diagonally and have been recalled — are a great way to carry your baby since they keep your hands free and provide the comfort of being held for your baby. To help keep you and your baby cool this Summer, I've found these stylish, lightweight, and very comfortable baby carriers, which are sure to do just that.
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Homemade baby food is convenient, inexpensive (especially if your baby is accustomed to eating Tyler Florence's gourmet baby food!), and packs lots of health benefits for your babe by using fresh nutrient-filled ingredients. Most LilSugar mamas say they make their lil one's food themselves, so what's your technique for steaming and pureeing? If you're ready to make the leap to homemade baby food, I've rounded up some gadgets that will make the transition that much easier for you.
And once you get the hang of it, here are some simple homemade baby food recipes to expand your recipe book!
Source: Flickr User lovelihood
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