During Oscar weekend, I had an opportunity to get an inside look on the ultimate star treatment during Jayneoni Moore’s Pre Oscar Studio.  Also known as the Boom Boom Room, this is the ultimate gifting suite for celebrities and their families and featured some of the latest products for moms and tots.  During the suite, I had an opportunity to speak with several brand representatives and even managed to get a few items to review.  So apart from the fact that these items are deemed “must haves,” I thought I’d share my personal experience for those of you looking for fabulous and functional products.

I’ve attended two other events hosted by Jayneoni Moore, and she truly is the expert on the best products for families.  When she’s not planning her hugely popular Hollywood showcases, she’s busy designing childrenswear.  Jayneoni Moore New York is “a collection of sophisticated, classic, fashion inspired clothing for little girls sizes 2t to 6t.”  While the line has not officially launched, you can see a preview on her site.  And…this spring, the style expert is planning to open Plum’s Imaginaporium, “an indoor children’s wonderland playcenter and gorgeous party destination.”  I can’t wait to see it!

In the coming weeks, I’ll be sharing detailed reviews of some of my favorite companies represented at the event. But here is a preview:

Spanx:  I haven’t left the house without shapewear in 3 1/2 years.  And while there are dozens of shapewear companies on the market (many of which I’ve reviewed here on my site), I still find Sarah Blakely’s Assets line to be my favorite in terms of comfort and shaping.  The company recently launched a swimwear line, complete with built-in shaping to provide control where you need it most.  They also have Spanx for Men…I’ll let you read all about that! : ) Review pending.

Baby Gourmet:  My daughter is in that in-between phase where she wants to eat “real” food, but isn’t eating enough of it to sustain her.  Thus, we’re still mixing it up with baby food.  While I’ve dabbled in homemade baby food, I have stopped feeling guilty about using store-bought baby food.  My daughter actually doesn’t like most store brands.  However, when I gave her one of the purees, she ate about half of it.  I think she enjoyed feeding herself, and while it was messy, it kept her entertained.  Baby Gourmet’s 100% organic baby food is available in 3 stages and free from added sugar, salt, thickeners, or fillers.  It’s only available in Canada at present, but you can order it in bulk online. Review pending.

Playpants:  I can’t believe I have yet to get my daughter a pair of bloomers! Playpants are the “original modern bloomers” for children ages 0-3.  These Canadian made bloomers are made from 100% cotton, cotton/linen, or 100% GOTS certified organic cotton/recycled hemp, are available in modern prints and solids, and suitable for boys and girls.  They’re available in select US boutiques, in Canada, and online. Review pending.

Turtle Toppy: Protect your little ones in style with Turtle Toppy’s stroller and car seat covers. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve wanted to throw a blanket over my infant daughter to keep her warm and germ-free.  Unlike blankets, these covers include a breathable mesh, are available in adorably hip fabrics, and designed to fit car seats and strollers to at T. Review pending.

HippMAMA:  I laughed when I heard that Shannon Wyszynski, the creator of The HippMAMA tool belt stuffed pacifiers and cell phones in her bra because I can totally relate!  These days, with the scare of breast cancer, I stuff the cell phone elsewhere (as in the black hole that is my purse) but still continue to house the pacifier in my bra, despite the odd stares from strangers.  Fortunately, busy moms can have everything at their fingertips with the HippMAMA toolbelt.  While I would need a diaper bag for a day out with the kids, the toolbelt is perfect for short trips to the store or the park.  Review pending.

School Zone:  I truly believe that parents are the best educators of their children.  But sometimes, it’s nice to have a little assistance.  School Zone has been producing children’s educational products for over thirty years.  The company recently added iBook titles for the iPad to their collection of age-appropriate workbooks, software, and flash cards. Review pending.

Dapple:  The line of natural-based cleaning products was founded by two moms who wanted an effective solution for cleaning those items that go into a child’s mouth.  The entire line of dish, laundry, and toy/surface cleaners are free from phtalates, parabens, dyes, and SLES. Review pending.

Toe Blooms:  Dress up those adorable tootsies with the perfect accessory! I think Toe Blooms ties for cutest baby product.  Wear them on bare feet or over socks.  Review pending.

Little Diva Tutus:  Every little girl deserves a tutu.  And while there are a number of adorable options, none are as moving as those inspired by Layla Grace.  Perhaps you followed her story…  Her mother designed a bright, colorful layered tutu in celebration of her daughter who lost her battle to cancer. Little Diva Tutus donates $15 for each tutu sold to the Layla Grace Children’s Cancer Research Foundation.  Review pending.

Skinfix:  Lotions, creams, and pastes are abundant.  But Skinfix’s secret formula, comprised of minerals, botanical extracts, vitamins, and other natural ingredients, promises to fix it.  Diaper rash? Chapped lips? New tattoo?  Skinfix will fix it! Review pending.

Lil Kiddies Creations:  The adorable children’s boutique offers custom onesies with original applique, headband and bootie sets.  They also offer “Lil Parties” concepts for your child’s next birthday party or special event.

My Little Pony:  They’ve undergone a makeover but continue to delight little girls across the country. Children can engage in a world of pretend play by collecting all six friends. Review pending.

Exederm:  If your child suffers from eczema, dermatitis or sensitive skin, Exederm may just be the solution.  The line, which includes a baby bath, lotion, oil, shampoo, and moisturizer is free from fragrance, parabens, lanolin, dyes, propylene glycol, SLS, and phthalates. Review pending.

PaigeLauren:  The ultra comfy, chic children’s wear line features soft fabrics, classic cuts, and a bold palette.  Right now, you can save 50-75% off their Fall/Winter line.  I spotted dresses for $9.00 and bodysuits/rompers for $7.00.  Review pending.

Babybot:  With over 1,000 of the trendiest baby products on the market, Babybot seeks to offer a unique shopping experience.  The products are modern and beautifully designed. Go ahead and take a peek…you’ll love what you see!

Like Book:  I love the idea of a book that tells my child each thing I “like” about him/her.  I think children need to hear and see how much we adore them…everything about them…from their laugh to their dimples.  The concept is simple, yet profound and the company is aiming to change the world, one “like” at a time. Review pending.

LeapFrog:  The “leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based educational products” gifted celebrities and their children with the Shapes & Sharing Picnic Basket and Count & Scan Shopper, emphasizing the importance of active, imaginative play.

Cutie Covers:  This is no ordinary blanket. These chic, cozy covers keep your baby warm and germ-free.  They attach securely to the car seat and can double as a blanker. Review pending.

DiaperBuds: Have children, will travel. These individually wrapped and vacuum sealed diapers fit conveniently into your purse or pocket for those times when you need it most.

Zoe Organics:  The company strives to offer products for moms and tots made from pure, organic ingredients.  Check out their Baby Balm, which can be used anywhere to help heal dry, chapped skin.

The Sugar Fairy Bakeshop:  Who knew that such beautifully handcrafted desserts could melt in your mouth.  Their baked goods are made with the freshest ingredients.  There is no dieting here!

Wean Green:  Carry your tots favorite snack or freeze some of that homemade baby food in their eco-friendly Wean Cubes.  Made from 100% recyclable glass, these containers can withstand fire heat and ice!

Colortime:  Tired of throwing away your child’s art projects? Check out Colortime’s wearable, usable crafts including backpacks, pillow cases and t-shirts.  Tip: This would make a great birthday party activity. Review pending.

Oh Baby:  The company’s baby care line includes a lotion, wash, bubble bath, sunscreen and diaper cream made with  natural ingredients, including antioxidants, vitamins, and soothing anti-inflammation botanicals.

Lollacup: When it’s time to ditch the bottle, transition your tot to this eco-friendly, valve-free, straw cup, suitable for infants over the age of 9 months. Review pending.

Smart Mom Jewelry:  Only a mom could design something as fashionable and functional as teething jewelry.  I rarely wear real jewelry for the same reason she developed the line.  They’re fashionable, chewable, and most importantly, they stay put!  Review.

No compensation was received for this post. I received samples from several of the companies listed above.

If you’re looking for the occasional prepared meal for your baby (or toddler), check out Greenie Tots.  The company offers 3 different stages of minimally processed frozen meals.   Their meals are made from all-natural ingredients and free from hormones, pesticides, or high-fructose corn syrup.  I was a bit surprised that their meals are meatless (particularly for toddlers), particularly because they don’t taste like they’re made from quorn.

My son and I tried these before we finally received the results of his allergy testing (he’s allergic to cow’s milk and eggs).  Unfortunately all of the toddler/kid meals contain dairy and/or eggs.  So one suggestion I have for the company is to offer at least one dairy and egg-free option since more and more kids are being diagnosed with food allergies.  I’m also not quite sure why the company doesn’t use meat, but I do appreciate the fact that each meal includes vegetables.

As I mentioned above, I didn’t even notice that meat was absent in the two meals we tried, (“Chicken”, Cheese, & Spinach Quesadilla with Mixed Vegetables 6-Pack) and Pasta & Spinach “Meat” Sauce.  We popped them in the microwave (you can also boil them) and they were done in less than 5 minutes.  They tasted fresh and not like your typical frozen meal…tainted with sodium and seasonings.  While some of the meals do have a lot of ingredients, they aren’t ingredients you won’t recognize (for the most part).  All of the toddler meals contain 20% or less of the RDA for sodium, are free from trans fats, and act as a good source of protein.  I’d love to see a bit of fiber added to the meals.

Greenie Tots are available for purchase directly from the site (meals are shipped frozen to your home).  At $5 a meal, they’re a bit on the pricey side (especially since they’re not 100% organic), but convenient, tasty, and healthy for the occasional cook-free night!

I did not receive compensation for this post.  Product samples were provided to facilitate this review.

In a short time, I’ll be reviewing an adorable onesie from The Precious Club.  This new line of baby and kid’s clothing is trendy, fun, and somewhat cheeky.  The company’s goal is to offer soft, comfortable, high-quality clothing that parents and kids will enjoy wearing.  

Through Christmas, you can order from the site and receive free overnight shipping.  If you’re looking for a last minute gift, this just might be the perfect option!

When I was younger, my mom and I would go shopping for clothes almost every week.  Sometimes it would simply be window shopping…other times we’d buy outfits for school and work.  If you can believe it, I find shopping for our son and soon-to-be born baby girl more enjoyable than shopping for myself (even when I’m not pregnant).  I know that children grow quickly and I always consider the practical side of shopping for children, but I really enjoy dressing my son up.  And I’ve already bought our little girl several dresses and outfits.

Zutano was one of the online stores I shopped at when my son was a baby.  In fact, I still have some of his outfits I saved in case we decide that our family is not complete.  Their styles are uniquely fashionable and their fabrics are soft and comfy.  The company was started by a mother and father who felt there was need for children’s clothing with the appropriate style, fit, originality and color.  Today the company has grown and their line of children’s clothing includes clothing in over 90 solids, dots, patterns, ginghams and stripes.  The clothes were designed to be mixed and matched which allows for a more diverse children’s wardrobe and the ability to create several different outfits with a few pieces.

Zutano also offers a seasonal collection which changes every Spring and Fall, emphasizing the creative nature of the company.  I love the fact that they’re constantly bringing in you styles.  This collection is offered in sizes 12m to 4T and designed for the active toddler (like my son!).

Itzy Bitzy is their newborn line and fits babies weighing 4-8 pounds.  Because the company uses 100% cotton, the clothing is very soft.  They also offer a 0-3 month line which fits babies weighing 9-13 pounds.  You’ll also find a nice selection of newborn “extras” including hats, socks, mittens, burp cloths, blankets, and sleep sacks. The site offers adorable outfits that make the perfect “going home” outfit.

If you have a baby or child you still haven’t shopped for, consider Zutano’s trend-setting line of children’s clothing.  Itzy Bitzy is the company’s online shopping site offering newborn and baby clothes up to 3 months.  If you’re looking for Zutano’s line for older children, please visit their website which highlights national retailers.

Win It! One of you will win a $75 gift  card to Itzy Bitzy.  Please note that the site only sells newborn clothing.  One other item of note is that if you’ve won a gift card from Zutano/Itzy Bitzy in the last 6 months, you are ineligible to win this giveaway.  In order to enter, simply leave me a comment with an item from the site you’d like to own for your baby (or give as a gift).  Comments will close on December 11, 2009 at 10 PM PST. One comment per person, please (unless you do the extra credit). US residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

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Disclosure: I did not receive compensation for this review. I did receive a product, courtesy of the company in order to facilitate my review.

Who knew that a child’s hat could be so much fun?  Wallaroo Hat Company offers fashionable hats that serve as excellent protection from the sun (UPF 50+ to be exact).  The company offers an Art Hat that is stylish and fun to design and wear.  Now that winter is here, you and your children will probably be spending more time indoors.  I always like art projects for cold, rainy days in particular.

We received an Art Hat, courtesy of the company, which included paint, paintbrushes, and a hat.  To be honest, I knew my son would probably need a LOT of help.  In fact, I think this would be best for the preschool and older group, but my son still had a lot of fun “painting” with mommy (who actually did most of the painting).  So how did we fare?

It’s definitely “kid-looking” as far as the art goes.  To be honest it’s a little difficult to paint a hat.  The design on the site looks easy enough but I would encourage you to let your children just paint to their heart’s content, not worrying about dotting their “I’s” and crossing their “T’s”, if you know what I mean. I watered the paints down a bit because they seemed a bit too thick to get fine lines.  I also suggest using a thinner paintbrush than what comes with the hat to refine your designs.

The Art Hat is available in a fuschia or navy trim and sizes 2-5 years or 5-7 years.  The kit retails for $20 and is available for purchase online.

It seems like so far away, yet by six months, our little girl will be ready to start using a sippy cup…she’ll be staring solid foods.  It will happen before we’ve had a chance to even think about catching up on sleep.  On my quest for feeding products, safety is my number one concern.  Since MOST feeding products are derived from plastic, it’s important that anything that goes in my childrens’ mouth is free from BPA.  A couple of years ago, I can’t tell you that well-known baby companies even thought about BPA as an issue.  These days, it would be a little more difficult to find a company still using BPA in baby products.

Evenflo is one such company who has worked to ensure that their products are BPA-free.  The company has just launched a new toddler line called Smart Steps.  The launch of the line is an effort by Evenflo to address childhood obesity and eating disorders (a product concept I find very interesting).  Here is a little more info from the site:

Smart Steps was developed in collaboration with top nutrition experts from Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, to offer parents a simple solution to fostering lifelong healthy eating habits by providing products for each age and stage of a child’s eating development. The products can help toddlers recognize proper portion sizes, explore new and different foods, and learn to self-regulate meals by listening to their bodies to identify when they feel full.

Smart Steps offers products in 3 different lines:  Knowing Portions, Exploring Food, and Serving Myself.  Each category offers products which correlate with varying developmental stages.  Insulated Cups which keep liquids cool, Portion Plates that teach toddlers about appropriate portion sizes, and Snack Stackers which promote toddler self-feeding are just a few of the products offered in this new line.  I really like the incorporation of a child’s development with education about nutrition and eating.  They’ve also aligned their products to correlate with the American Academy of Pediatrics’ guidelines for toddler feeding.

Overall, I think this the line is healthy, user-friendly, and a great starting point for teaching toddlers.  You can find Smart Steps at Babies R Us and select retailers nationwide.  You can  download a coupon here.

Do you have a picky eater?  I know I do!  Here are some tips, courtesy of the site:

• Let your kids be “produce pickers” at the store.  If they can pick out their own fruits and veggies – they’ll be more inclined to eat them
• Invite your kids to prepare meals with you.  All of that mixing, mashing and measuring will make them want to taste what they are prepping.
• Try to make meals a stress-free time. Talk about fun and happy things.
• Offer choices. Rather than ask “Do you want broccoli for dinner?” ask “Which would you like for dinner: broccoli or cauliflower?”

“I wrote this review while participating in a blog campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Evenflo and received a sample to facilitate my candid review. In addition, Mom Central sent me a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate.”

Speaking of sippy cups, when is the right time to introduce one?  My pediatrician recommends waiting until a baby is able to sit up and hold an object with both hands (around 6 months of age).  And complete weaning should be done between 12-18 months.  So maybe this time around I’ll be more diligent.  Fortunately, I’m getting some help with Thermos‘ new Foogo Phases drinkware.  The line is a brand new line featuring interchangeable parts that fit all Phases cups.  Featuring three phases and 2 colors (for boys and girls), the line offers products made from BPA-free Eastman Tritan copolyester and stainless steel.  Thankfully, the cups are impact-resistant since babies and toddlers just love throwing things when they’re done with them (ahem!).  Each of the cups are contoured for tiny hands to hold (the Phase 1 products come with a removable handle).  My son should be off of the sippy cup by now and drinking from a cup or a straw, but again I’m dragging my feet!  I’m most impressed with how durable the cups are…and the fact that they don’t leak!  My number one complaint with sippy cups is that most leak (I have a toddler who will FIND a way to make them leak!).

There are three Foogo Phases…for babies and tots over 6 months (soft spout), over 12 months (hard spout), and over 18 months (straw).  The interchangeable lid and body systems allow parents the option of 24 drinkware combinations.  I really like the stainless steel-made cups because they keep liquids cool for 6-10 hours (it’s double-wall vacuum-insulated).  Once your child moves to the next stage, you can simply interchange the lids (rather than buying a whole new set of sippy cups).

Foogo Phases products are available at retailers nationwide and retail for approximately $15.99 each.