Top parenting stories this week
From baby toys and cool threads to store openings and things to do with your little one. We cover the new, the old favourites and the best-kept secrets for everything baby.
All-Natural Hemp Baby Sling
With three kids (and another on the way) at Just the Facts, Baby, we know how much moms need to multitask-and being hands-free really helps. That's why we were thrilled to discover new, eco-friendly slings from Hemp Couture. Lightweight and comfortable to wear, they let you keep your little one close and still get stuff done. The fact they're "ring" slings means they're versatile and can be adjusted to fit both you and your baby from birth to 35lbs. But, the best part is that these slings are sustainable and are handmade with strong hemp outer shells and soft, organic cotton lining. Hemp is naturally resistant to mould, mildew and ultraviolet light, making Hemp Couture slings ideal all-weather baby gear. hempcouture.ca
Looking for more eco-friendly baby gear? Hemp Couture just added baby clothes to its repertoire, including the adorable hemp love dress and soy baby hats featured on hempcouture.etsy.com.
A New Approach to Discipline
As parents of two-year-old boys, we've discovered our little guys definitely have minds of their own. A good thing, but when it comes to discipline...well, we've tried it all: asking nicely, promising rewards, begging, threatening–all to no avail. Which is why we're eternally grateful to Honey, I Wrecked the Kids (Wiley, 2009) by psychotherapist and parenting expert Alyson Schafer. If you're at your wits' end, we highly recommend trying the respectful, "democratic parenting" approach Schafer explores in her book. Her tone is light, friendly and accessible and she not only explains the reasons behind the behaviours your family may be struggling with, but gives you all the tools you need to solve the problem–guaranteed to restore harmony and foster healthy family relationships. www.alyson.ca
Original art for kids' rooms
If the walls in your child's room are looking a little bare, Whoobie Fine Art for Kids could be just what you need to brighten things up. Artist Jennifer Elliott paints a pretty picture, creating fun, cheerful art to fit any color palette–from softer-hued "Busy Bees" (shown here) to fun and vibrant "Funky Fish." Each canvas print is stretched over a ¾-inch-deep wood frame and arrives ready to hang. And, since kids love mail, you can also sign up to receive free Whoobie-print postcards that you can frame or just pop on your fridge. Whoobie.com
To receive 10% off your purchase, just enter the promo code: 10justfacts when you place an order at whoobie.com
Stylish Slings for Carrying Baby
Wearing a sling was once a guaranteed outfit spoiler but, lucky for new moms, fashion-forward baby carriers make it easy to look cool while toting your tot. We especially love Toronto-designed Pippalily slings. The fabric selections resemble that of the season's latest wrap and the slings are machine washable–a must when it comes to any baby gear. The ultra snug fit is perfect for newborns–our expert sling tester (six-week-old Beckett) liked it so much he doesn't want to hang out anywhere else.
Self-Inflating Nursing Pillow
Breastfeeding pillows are handy when it comes to feeding baby, but they can be big, bulky and take up a lot of space–which is why we were excited to discover a new, compact nursing pillow from gr8X. The pillow comes in a stylish carrying case and self inflates in 10 seconds once opened. It's so small you can even take it with you for feedings on the go. Plus, a handy zipper pocket is the ideal place to stash a few extra wipes or a diaper. The cover has a soft, plush side and is machine washable too.
