Michelle LaRowe - Favorites

The BusyBodyBook

If you can't keep your own schedule straight, never mind the rest of your family's, the BusyBodyBook is most definitely for you! With an easy to manage grid system that leaves plenty of space for you to write everything, managing multiple children, careers and home becomes a cinch! Adapt the whole BusyBody system and put the wall calendar and Fridge Grid magnetic pad to work for you. You (and your family) will be glad you did!

The Moby Wrap

Recently I saw a mom wearing her baby in this large piece of fabric at a music class we were at. The baby seemed super comfortable and the mom raved about her “Moby Wrap” and insisted everyone in the class try one. Being a bigger mom, I was hesitant on trying one because I was afraid it wouldn’t fit. I also thought the baby looked so securely placed in the fabric, that it would be just be too difficult to get the wrap on and baby in correctly. In addition, I didn’t think a single piece of fabric could be twisted enough ways to hold a baby safely and comfortably. Boy was I wrong! After the mom continued to rave about her wrap to me I decided to give it try. Knowing my line of work, she really wanted to me to test it out. I reached out to Moby and asked them for a wrap to review and now I’m hooked. I can’t believe it fits me (with plenty of room to spare) and that it is super easy to use. My five month old loves to sit facing it and out and my 2 year old insisted she try it and she didn’t want to get out! Best of all if was comfortable to wear and even in the summer heat, I didn’t feel hot or sticky while wearing the wrap. In addition to being surprisingly easy to get on and adjust, it’s just as easy to get the baby in and out of and the wrap is machine washable! I really like the Moby company. Their website is full of valuable information on the benefits of baby wearing and how-to guides.

The Babysense V

As a career nanny and a new mom, the Babysense V Monitor gives parents the peace of mind they need to get a goodnights rest. While there is no substitute for parental supervision and a safe sleep space for your baby, you can have confidence that the Babysense Monitor will wake and alert you to a potential problem your sleeping baby may be having which could give you the valuable time needed to help your baby out of a dangerous situation.

Bum Boosa Bamboo Wipes

Soft as silk, tough as nails. I think that should be Bum Boosa's new tag line! These wipes are a natural, biodegradable and renewable alternative to traditional disposable baby wipes. They're made from renewable bamboo and they're soft, absorbent and naturally scented with lavender and sweet orange essential oils. My children both have super sensitive skin and the wipes didn't leave a hint of irritation. These wipes arent's flimsy either. Bum Boosas wipes are definitely strong and can easily handle cleaning up the messiest of messes.

The Britax Marathon 70

The Britax Marathon 70 is a convertible child restraint designed for children 5-40 lbs in the rear-facing position and up to 70 lbs in the forward-facing position. The height limit for the seat is listed at 49 inches and the seated shoulder height is 9-16.75 inches for rear-facing and 12-16.75 for forward-facing. Since all children are shaped differently, children may outgrow the seat by length before weight. My last experience regularly using a Britax seat was about 10 years ago. I recalled being so impressed with the seat then, I was thrilled when I had a chance to review the new Marathon 70. Again, I am impressed with the Britax seat. In addition to having Safe Cell Technology, Integrated Steel Bars (that reduce the forward flexing of the child seat during a crash) and an energy-absorbing Versa-Tether, the seat can be tethered in both the rear and forward facing positions. With the ability to recline in both the rear and forward facing positions, the seat offers ultimate comfort and positioning for the child. One thing I really like about the seat is that my daughter seems to sit lower in it due to the deeper seat pan. The Quick Adjust Harness means no more injured fingers trying to rethread and adjust harness straps. As always, I have a Certified Tech install my safety seats. The Marathon 70 took seconds to install in the rear-facing position with the LATCH system and the install was snug. For parents looking for a safe, convertible seat that allows for extended rear-facing, The Britax Marathon is a superb choice!

The Britax Chaperone

With the new research that’s supporting extended rear facing, for parents who wish to keep their infants in a car seat as long as possible, the Chaperone is a great choice. The Chaperone is designed for infants 4-40 lbs, 32 inches or less and with a seated shoulder height of 6.5 to 11 inches. A special foam insert is included with the Chaperone to make it properly fit preemies or low birth weight babies. There are three key features that set this seat apart. First, the seat offers great side impact protection, second, the head restraint and harness are super easy to adjust (no rethreading required!) and third, the base boasts an anti-rebound bar that minimizes the rotational force that can occur during a crash. The seat also feels like it is made well and provides a good amount of padding. The LATCH connectors make the seat super easy to install and the built in lock-offs make it easier to install the seat tightly when using a seatbelt. Using the LATCH, the install was quite snug and secure. The height adjustment knob on the base makes it easy to assure that you get the proper seat angle and the levels on both sides of the seat allow you to easily check for proper positioning each time you place your carrier in the base. With 7 height adjustments, two crotch buckle positions and a front harness adjuster, the harness can be positioned to fit correctly on most any baby. I was concerned that my larger 5 month old would have a hard time adjusting to the seat since his head could no longer flop from side to side (which is a good thing!) due to the adjustable head restraint, but he seems to love it! He has slept more now in the car than he ever has. One point of note: Since the base seems quite long, the seats of smaller vehicles with shorter seat cushions may cause it to hangover the edge of the seat. The Britax website FAQ addresses this topic here.

*Some models of the Chaperone have been recalled due to a weaked chest clip. The seat I reviewed was not part of the recall. Click here to learn about the recall.

Boon Coveralls

These new coveralls by Boon became my husband’s quick favorite. Free from snaps and zippers, diaper changing is a cinch! With a one-piece, open waistline design, you can easily slip your baby's feet out, change her diaper and slip them back in! It's really a no fuss sleepwear solution!

Jeep Travel Anywhere Sport 2-in-1 Booster Seat and Everyday Bag

Sick of arriving at a “family friendly” restaurant only to be given a filthy highchair to put your toddler in? Or lugging around a bulky portable highchair wherever you go? Jeep has come up with the perfect all-in-one solution that has seamlessly meshed the convenience of an easy to clean diaper bag with a lightweight portable booster seat. With one quick unzip, the side of the spacious Everyday Bag unfolds to create a portable seat, complete with a three point safety harness. For use on most dining rooms chairs that have a back, the shoulder strap and additional seat strap serve to attach the booster seat securely to the chair. For parents of children who can sit up unassisted (and until they reach 45 pounds) the Jeep® Travel Anywhere™ Sport 2-in-1 Booster Seat & Everyday Bag is a must have if your family is frequently found eating meals away from home.

Kolcraft Contours Options Tandem

When I learned I was expecting a second baby of my own, I immediately began investigating double strollers that could accommodate both a toddler and an infant carrier. At the mall one day, I noticed this attractive looking stroller and took note. The Contours Options Tandem has the look and feel of a luxury stroller, but at its price point ($250), it's an affordable option for many moms of two. The smooth frame, comfortable fully reclining seats (both can be faced forwards or backwards - or they can face towards each other) and the adaptability to accommodate children from birth to 40 pounds make for great selling points. The hold-on handles are an added bonus for moms of toddlers who like to walk as you stroll, but need a tangible reminder to stay close. For a longer stroller it's easy to maneuver and offers a smooth ride, but for a compact fold, you'll need to remove one of the seats (super easy to do). If you're looking to invest in one stroller to accommodate your growing family, the Kolcraft Contours Options Tandem is a good choice.

The Flair Pedestal Highchair

Finally! Now this highchair by Boon was definitely designed by a mom in the know! If you look closely, you'll see that the seat is seamless. Translation: no crevices and easy cleaning. The straps can even be removed for a thorough scrub. Hello! While those features in themselves are enough to make this nanny turned mom overjoyed with excitement, the sleek look and design has meshed fashion and function flawlessly. Say goodbye to tripping over the legs of a highchair and fussing with cranky manual height adjustments. Simply step on the button and watch the seat move up and down. Added bonus: the tray is the perfect size for little ones, which helps stop supersizing kids meals dead in its tracks.

The Joy of Family Traditions

Family traditions give children a sense of belonging and help them to feel connected to their family unit, but thinking up, starting and continuing family traditions can be hard. Enter The Joy of Family Traditions by Jennifer Trianer Thompson. From the history of religious and cultural traditions to inspiring ideas for starting traditions of your own, this book is a must have for busy families who are looking to get more out of the holidays than gifts.

Britax B-Ready

Wow. That pretty much summaries my review of the Britax B-Ready Stroller. I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect stroller for moms of two under two and I’ve found it. There is nothing about this stroller that was an afterthought and I can’t imagine anything else that could be added to it to make it better. What makes this stroller stand out is that while it can be used as a single stroller, it can also be used as a double stroller. In fact, the B-Ready has more than 14 strolling combinations and can even accommodate twin infant car seats! When used as a single stroller using the top seat alone, it is designed for children at least 6 months old, up to 55 lbs. But, have no fear! The top seat comes off super easily and the frame can accommodate an infant car seat, making it suitable for newborns as well! When used as a double stroller with two seats, the second seat can be used from birth and up since it reclines! The stroller also folds with the second seat attached, which is unheard of. Each seat has a no re-thread, adjustable, 5-point harness and the B-Ready maneuvers as easy as any single stroller on the market. The storage compartment even has a zipper in the front and on each side for easy access. The oversized sun shade is awesome and the stroller comes with an awesome additional storage pouch that makes super organized moms like me extremely happy. You must check out this stroller. There are many small details that make it the best. Most moms purchase at least 7 strollers. I believe the B-Ready is the only stroller you’ll need!

The Nook by Joovy

When it comes to new products, I’m always on the lookout for items that are fashionable and functional. The Joovy Nook is certainly both! For families tight on space, The Nook is the perfect highchair option. It is light weight and folds so flat that you can easily slide it under a couch or store it inside of pantry closet. The tray (that is also removable) swings open for easy access and has a dishwasher safe tray insert to make clean up a cinch. The leatherette seat is easy to wipe down (or you can opt for a machine washable fabric) and the 5 point harness keeps kids safe and sitting in their seat where they belong during meals. Since the seat is designed to keep babies sitting up straight when they eat, the seat does not recline and is not appropriate for babies who can’t yet sit up without assistance.

Piggy Paint

Every little girl goes through a stage where she wants to be like her mama. She wants to wear mama's fancy shoes, and of course, have nails painted just like her mama too. Unfortunately because of the toxic chemicals and strong odors found in traditional polishes, painting their daughter's nails has not been an option for many moms. Until now. Enter Piggy Paint, a non-toxic, kid friendly, safe and durable real nail polish for kids. Now moms can enjoy playing spa and dress up without worrying if the polish is harming their child or their environment. Piggy Paint dries beautifully and the colors are vibrant. Piggy Paint even has their own nail polish remover designed to safely remove their polish. A safe alternative to traditional polish, Piggy Paint is sure to be a huge hit with little girls and their moms everywhere.

Jeep Wranger Twin Sport All-Weather

For parents of multiples (or an older infant and a toddler) who are looking for a lightweight, umbrella stroller that comfortably seats two, the Jeep Wrangler Twin Sport All-Weather is where it’s at. The Jeep® Wrangler Twin Sport® All-Weather is the stroller parents of two don’t realize they truly need until they’ve tried it out. Lightweight, compact and easy to fold and maneuver, parents who spend lots of time getting in and out of the car will appreciate the ease of use and transportability of the Twin Sport. The independently reclining seats and cool-climate roll-ups turn headrests make the Twin Sport a comfy ride for children up to 35 pounds. While young infants may ride with the seat in its fully reclined position, replacing the 3 point buckle with a five-point harness would be a much welcomed feature. For its price point of $120.00, it’s an attractive and affordable option for many parents of two.

The Grobag Egg

Stop wondering if your baby's sleeping area is at the right temperature! There is no more guessing with the Grobag Egg. Doubling as a soft glowing nightlight, a quick peek into baby's room and you'll immediately know if the sleep space is too hot, too cold or just right. And say good-bye to unattractive room thermometers. This awesome egg changes color, going from a deep blue if the room is too cold to a deep red if the room is too hot. The Grobag Egg is a must have for all parents who consider themselves safety conscious.

The Grobag Sleep Bag

Every parent wants the assurance that their baby is safe and comfortable. Fortunately, the Grobag® Safe Sleep System can help give you that assurance. In addition to keeping your baby's sleep area free from hazardous loose blankets, the Grobag® Safe Sleep Bag comes in a variety of warmth ratings that allow you to keep your baby comfortable in all temperatures. With specific advice on how to dress your baby safely in different temperatures and a free room thermometer to help you monitor the temperature of your baby’s sleep area, say good-bye to kicked off blankets, suffocation hazards and midnight mom attacks!

Bebe au Lait Hooded

Bath Towel

A bath towel is just a bath towel, right? Wrong! Soft and snuggly, Bebe au Lait has given moms something to drool over, again! By far, the best feature of this terry towel is the perfectly centered loop that allows you to hang your child's towel on a hook, rather than over the top of the bathroom door for quick drying. The Bebe au Lait hooded bath towel is a must have for stylish moms and babies alike! The best news? It comes in two sizes and in your choice of 11 patterns!

Boon Snack Ball

The Boon Snack Ball is perhaps the best $7 a parent of a toddler will ever spend! This ball can be tossed and thrown around without any worries. Snacks stay fresh and they don't get crushed. Little hands can fit in perfectly to help themselves and with the inner edge, snacks don't tumble out. The Boon Snack Ball is a must have for mom's on the go!

Babysitter Balance

I am in love with the Babysitter Balance and I've given it a pet name to prove it. The Babysitter is now known in my circle as the Baby Soother. Seriously, in addition to the super sturdy engineering of this bouncy seat, with adjustable angles, it really will hold your baby in the perfect position to sleep, rest or play. While there are many bouncy seats on the market, none can compete with the Babysitter Balance. Its machine washable fabric that securely cradles the baby and its ability to naturally translate a baby’s movements into a gentle rocking motion (read no batteries required!) set this seat apart. Guaranteed to leave even the fussiest baby soothed, the BabyBjörn Babysitter Balance is a must have for every mom.

ALERT!! On July 28, 2009 BabySwede issued a voluntary recall of the Babysitter Balance. Two consumers in Japan found small pieces of metal in the fabric that wraps around the metal frame. BabySwede is advising all owners of the Babysitter Balance to return theirs to them for inspection.

Click here to read about the recall and learn more.

Maclaren Techno XT

Finding a stroller that does it all isn't easy, but it is possible. With a 5 point harness, fully reclining seat and a leg rest that extends out to support your child's legs while they nap, the Maclaren Techno XT Buggy is a must have for moms on the go. Since it is designed for children birth to 55 pounds, it's a stroller definitely worth investing in. It's umbrella fold makes it super portable and its swivel wheels and adjustable height handles make for easy maneuvering. The Techno even comes in a double version that can fit through standard doors and navigate the racks in the mall effortlessly. The Maclaren Techno XT is my personal stroller of choice and the stroller I recommend to families with whom I work.

Maclaren issued a voluntary recall of this stroller and others on Nov. 9, 2009. Replacement parts to correct the issue are available. Please click here for the CPSC press release

Amy Michelle Cosmo

Fashionable. Functional. Feminine. Fun. Fearless. Amy Michelle's Cosmo bag is all of the above and a must have for moms on the go. Finally, an all-in-one bag that is designed with both baby and mom in mind.

The Cosmo boasts a secret spot to hold a changing pad, two bottle holders (one for mom's water and one for baby?!), pacifier holder and 5 roomy pockets to hold everything from diapers to wipes to a spare set of clothes and that's just in the baby compartment!

The moms side comes complete with a key ring, credit card slots and a front buckle close pocket that is perfect for storing your cell phone or iPod.

Have no fear, a super all-in-one bag is here! No more carrying several bags. This one holds it all and looks good hanging over your shoulder.

Petunia Pickle Bottom's

Glazed Boxy Backpack

If you're looking for a practical and fashionable diaper bag, the Boxy Back Backpack is where it's at. In addition to the PVC-free glazed fabric that is completely wipe-able, the detachable, machine washable changing pad makes this diaper bag perfect for moms worried about their diaper bag being a constant mess. The inner and outer pockets are perfect for super organized moms, like myself, and the detachable storage pouch is ideal for storing wet or dirty clothing. I've used many diaper bags in my 15 years plus of working with children and the Boxy Backpack is my personal diaper bag of choice and the one I recommend to families regularly.

HomeConvenience.com

For busy families, having a one-stop place to keep life organized is essential. For modern, busy families provides this site is just that. Unlike other web based family planners and organizers HomeConvenience.com has a unique "File Cabinet" where everything from recipes to clothing sizes to medical information can be stored. Its online Family Calendar, Address Book and Task List can be synchronized with your Palm or Outlook and it will even alert you to upcoming appointments via SMS/text messaging or email. Another unique feature of it offers is the "Family Center"--which provides automated forms printing for things such as Emergency Contact List, Family Member Profiles, and Baby Sitter Checklists. The greatest thing about this site is that everyone in the family can share information through one single account! The site is secure and super easy to use. I can guarantee this site is the mother of all internet based family organizers and calendars because I had a small part in creating it!

BabyBjorn Safe Step

Simple means easy to clean and when it comes to toilet training that is ultra important. While the top of the BabyBjorn Safe Step has a nice layer of rubber to keep the kids from slipping off, unlike other step stools that have thicker rubber with very deep grooves (read very hard to clean), disinfecting the BabyBjorn Step is easy. The wide base provide lots of stability and the thick rubber bottom prevents the stool from slipping. A must have for moms who embrace easy to clean products.

Hugga-Bebe

Sometimes the best products are designed by moms, for moms. If you're sick of stuffing rolled up blankets and towels into your exersaucers and swings to support your baby during playtime, the Hugga-Bebe is the ultimate solution. The Hugga-Bebe supports a babies trunk and neck while allowing them free range of motion with their arms so they can enjoy playtime in their swing, saucer and more without slumping over. For babies four months and older who are smaller and don't quite fit into traditionally sized play gear, the Hugga-Bebe creates a perfect fit so they can safely experience the fun.