New Mommy Must Haves - Baby Magic

There is a new bundle of joy in our family for all of us to love on.  No-one can resist those chunky cheeks.  To be honest, I think we all missed having a baby around.

Thanks to Baby Magic for sending samples for review.  All opinions are my own based on my personal experience.

As a seasoned parent of two, I remember that not all moments were happy moments.  There were some baby blues and lots of tears.  Sometimes the tears may or may not have come from the parents not the baby.  I hated seeing my babies irritated or in any type of pain.  A crying baby can send any parent into panic mode.

Some products can have hidden ingredients and can cause irritation to their skin causing slight discomfort to your baby.  

Baby Magic wants to help parents and babies everywhere feel cool, calm and collected with the help of its products.

Baby Magic’s must-haves below:

• Multi-Purpose Hydrogel Patch:

o   Perfect for relieving discomfort from sunburn, rash, fever and overheating

o   Pouch contains two rectangle, customizable patches

o   Helps restore rough, extra-dry skin

o   Dye-free, paraben-free, & steroid-free

-Pro-Tip: Mom (and dad!) can use to soothe adult skin woes, as well, making these patches a dual threat!

• 3-in-1 Wipes:

o    For use on face, hands, and body

o    Suitable for sensitive skin

o    pH balanced 

I know a thing or two about having a baby with sensitive skin.  You cannot just use anything on their precious bodies much less try to use the same wipes on their face.  My daughter's face is still so sensitive to this day. 

When the babies are happy, the parents are happier!

Hot Hot Baby #SunnyMoments

Boy do we love our fun in the sun.  Did you know even on gloomy days, the sun is still harmful?  Even if it is cloudy, 80% of the sun's rays can be pass through clouds.  We have to take precautions to protect ourselves and our babies from sun damage.

 
Thanks to Aveeno for sending product samples for review.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

The sun's ultra violet rays can be most harmful between the hours of 10 am to 4 pm.  This when they are extremely damaging because they are the strongest which is why they should be avoided.  Our skin is our largest organ of the body.  Aveeno Baby's Pediatrician Dr. Andres Cotton says, "Our skin is the first barrier our bodies have to protect itself." 

Here are some things to remember:

1)  Direct sunlight is not recommended for babies less than 6 months old.

2)  Keep babies shaded by putting light colored, thin clothing that covers their arms and legs and don't forget the hats. 

3)   When children are outdoors, make sure to apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF30 or more that can protect against UVA and UVB.

4)  Always remember to apply sunscreen to nose, cheeks, tops of ears, and feet.  You can use a face stick like the Aveeno Baby Continous Protection Sensitive Skin to make application easier.  And never forget the shoulders.

5)  Apply sunscreen 10-15 minutes before fun in the sun so that product can absorb into the skin.             Reapplying every 2 hours.

Aveeno has been a preferred brand in my home.  It is the brand I trust for my daughter's sensitive skin.  It is pediatrician and dermatologist recommended for the entire family. 

Baby Got Butz

I have a sister from another mister, like they say.  A few weeks ago I got the call.  You know the call when you take a deep breath and then you scream of joy.  She's pregnant!

Disclosure-Sample product was received for review.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

From time to time, as every sister does, we need a little help from the other.  I love being able to give my baby sister advise.  Whether it is our weekly phone calls or a call from out of the blue, we are always here for each other.  Since I started having babies first, I have lots of stories to tell.  What things worked for us and what did not.  Every baby is different.

The one thing that remains the same is that I always want what is best.  Being a new mom can be scary whether you are young or older, mom to one or more than one.  

With so many products out there, staying in tune with what is best, may become confusing.  I try to look for products that are going to be ok for baby use, and not harm them.

Baby Butz cream-(never tested on animals)

-100% All-Natural

-No perfume

-No alcohol

-No chemicals

-Paraben Free

-Hypoallergenic

I dare you to read the label.  You will recognize the ingredients.  Majda Ficko created Baby Butz because of her son’s needs.  Every mom has had that moment when they are desperate to find their baby relief.    

Backed by doctors, the cream begins the healing process immediately and stays put, even providing overnight protection.  Just four hours after applying the cream, parents can notice visible improvement in their child’s diaper rash.

Ask your pediatrician for a sample or find it at your nearest Target.

Little Twig Dish Soap and Bottle Wash

What is your most hated chore?  Mine is washing dishes.  I did not grow up with a dish washer.  I was the dish washer and still am.  I do have a dish washer but I like to wash the dishes myself.  I'm OCD that way.  It is a love hate relationship I have with the dishes.

Thanks to Little Twig for sending samples to review.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

Little Twig is a line of gentle, safe and natural skincare, bath time, and household products. 

One of their newest additions is the Dish Soap and Bottle Wash.  This is perfect for dishes, greasy pots, sippy cups and baby bottles.  Their product features a powerful natural plant based cleansing agent that leaves the dishes squeaky clean and residue free. These are available in two scents: Lemon Fresh and Fragrance Free.

I put Little Twig to the test this week and it passed.  But of course, I expected it to pass and all their products are always great.  Little Twig products are made with certified organic ingredients, natural botanicals and pure essential oils.  Each product is paraben and sulfate free, phthalate free, soy free and gluten free.  Little Twig is a natural care line for the entire family. 

Toddler Friendly Jewelry

***Disclosure-Sample product was received for your review.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

My daughter loves to play with my jewelry but she is still a toddler.  What do most babies and toddlers do?  They stick everything in their mouth.  I have been looking for jewelry that is kid friendly and that she would like.  I happen to have a little diva.

My princess received the Spring Heart Necklace from Juniorbeads.

Juniorbeads is children's jewelry made for ages 3 and up.  It is safe for your kids because it has no BPA, no phthalates, no cadmium, no lead, and no metals.  The beads are 100% silicone (similar to pacifiers and nipples).  Necklaces have a breakaway clasp for added safety.  Jewelry can be used as a sensory tool.  (If using as a sensory tool, please use under adult supervision.)  Easy to clean, just use dish soap and water, also dishwasher safe too.

Your daughter will love these.  They are available in different colors.  They also have dog tags and bangles.  And best of all some even glow in the dark. 

If you have baby, you may want to try Chewbeads.

Chewbeads are stylish and add extra interest and color to your outfit.  They are completely safe for your baby or toddler to chew on when they are teething.  Baby-safe jewelry is a great gift for new moms.  It is 100% safe silicone.  It is a piece of fashionable jewelry and e and not a string of baby toys hung around your neck.

For more information, go to: http://www.chewbeads.com/

Giveaway-Preparing Little Ones for Cooler Months

***Disclosure-No compensation was received.  Informational post.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

Aren't we just ready for summer to be over?  When the weather starts to change, we don't know how to act.  We should keep being mindful as it starts to cool down that our skin needs protection.  And so do our kid's skin.

Certified Pediatrician for AVEENO® Baby, Dr. Andrés Cotton, shares his best tips to help your baby during this transitional period.

Bath Time

Your baby may sweat a lot in humid weather.  You can keep your baby clean and healthy by giving him a bath at least once a day.  Don’t forget to check his neck, underarms and other creases in his body.  Use a soap free and paraben free wash such as AVEENO® Baby Wash & Shampoo which also leaves baby’s skin soft and smelling fresh.

Keep the temperature in the bathroom and bedroom the same, making sure there are no drafts of cold air while bathing or massaging your baby after her bath.  This may include air from a fan or air conditioner.  Complement your baby’s bath with a massage using AVEENO® Baby Daily Moisture Lotion, which contains natural colloidal oatmeal blended with rich emollients that soothe and help protect your baby's delicate skin.

Dress Appropriately

The weather can change a lot in a day during the transitional months. It could start out hot and humid and then get cold. Dress your baby appropriately, especially when you are planning to be out for a couple of hours. It is best to dress your baby in layers so that you can remove or add clothing to keep your baby comfortable through the day.

During the day when the temperate is warmer, you could dress your baby in loose cotton clothes that will let his skin breathe. When it gets cooler, cover your baby in a jacket or cardigan and booties to keep him warm.                                                  

Other Tips to Keep in Mind

During weather changes, babies tend to get sick.  Try not to take your baby out until the weather stabilizes. 

Fight the germs that can cause your baby to get sick by washing her hands after she eats, if she is old enough to have solid food, and when she comes home from daycare or being outside.

If your baby is at least 6 months old, use sun protection when spending time outside.  AVEENO® Baby Natural Protection Lotion Sunscreen with Broad Spectrum SPF 50 and AVEENO® Baby Natural Protection Face Stick with Broad Spectrum SPF 50 contain naturally sourced ingredients.

What do you do?  Do you have any tips?  

Well I want you to be prepared when the weather starts changing.  Enter to win an Aveeno Baby Prize Pack. 

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Papi Si Se Puede #JohnsonsDaddyDos

***Disclosure-Compensated post.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

Como Latinos nuestra cultura siempre tiene a mama cuidando a los nenes.  Desde levantarlos en la madrugada asta meterlos en la cama en la noche.  Pero ya los tiempos han cambiado y Papi esta ayudando a mama.

Gracias a mi esposo que llena mis zapatos cuando yo no puedo.  Porque de vez en cuando, esta super mami necesita ayuda.

Una de las areas que me puede ayudar mi esposo, es alistando a mi hija cuando vamos a salir a un lugar.  Mama nunca tiene tiempo para alistar.  Mi esposo tomo iniciativa y ahora el me ayuda alistar a nuestra nena.  El acepto la reta y asta la puede peinar.  La primera vez, yo le di estas intrucciones:

1)  Comiensa con limpiar el pelo utilizando el champú

2) El pelo necesita nutricion, sigue el champú con Leave In Conditioner (acondicionador)

3) Que pelo se puede arreglar si esta enredado? Usa el spray para desenredar el pelo.

4) Estila a tu gusto.

Y ahora mi lo....

Hoy la princesa decidio que queria una colita floja. A mi nena le gusta asi porque dice que se parece a una princesa. Es bien facil para mi esposo y a la nena le gusta. Mientras esta pienandole el pelo esta juntando el pelo. Parte el pelo al lado en vez de directamente en medio. Depues con el peine, junta el pelo hacia la colita. Torciendo el pelo con el peine cuando pienea hacia la colita. Al fin le pone un moño para completar el LOOK!

Giveaway-Bath Time is So Much More

***Disclosure-I received sample product for review.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

JOHNSON’S® fue la primera marca para el cuidado del bebé en comprometerse con el progreso de la ciencia relacionada a la piel del bebé. En los últimos cinco años ha publicado más estudios en esta área que cualquier otra compañía global para el cuidado de la piel. Las investigaciones están siendo utilizadas para  establecer los estándares para el cuidado del bebé alrededor del mundo. Han logrando avances al apoyar investigaciones que demuestran la importancia de las experiencias multi-sensoriales las cuales fomentan el desarrollo feliz y saludable del bebé.

JOHNSON’S® Global Survey Bath Time Report: Resultados sobre los Hispanos

Sólo el 45% de los padres dice que el momento del baño es extremadamente importante para el desarrollo del cerebro de su hijo, aunque los padres hispanos tienen un poco más de conocimiento (57% dice que es extremadamente importante vs. 41% de padres no-Hispanos).

La hora del baño es una buena oportunidad para estimular los sentidos de mi hijo (tacto, olfato, visión, audición). El 53% de los hispanos está totalmente de acuerdo, versus 35% de no-Hispanos.

Dos de tres padres en EE.UU. dicen que lamentan perderse la hora del baño (66%), especialmente los padres hispanos (79% vs. 63% de los padres no-Hispanos). 

El efecto sensorial que experimentan durante la hora del baño se queda con ellos mucho más tiempo después de cuando terminan de bañarse (77%), especialmente para padres hispanos (88% vs. 74% de padres no-Hispanos)

La rutina de nosotros es importante para nosotros. Desde cuando mi beba era chiquita, el tiempo de bano siempre es un buen tiempo para disfrutar.  

Mi nena le encanta jugar con las burbujas. Este juego ayuda que los bebes desarollen la coordinacion entre manos y ojos.

Estos momentos pueden crear buenos recuerdos. Olores placenteros pueden crear recuerdos para toda la vida.

Otra cosa que nos encanta es oir musica. Esto puede estimular partes del cerebro responsables de la memoria y el desarollo del lenguaje.

Y despues del banito, le doy un masajito. Cosquillitas por aqui, cosquillitas por alla. Relajando mi nena antes del tiempo para dormir.

Que usas tu para rutina? Quieres ganar estos productos para tu bebe? Entra aqui. Una persona va a ganar este paquete de productos de Johnson's.

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Little Twig Calming Lavender Baby Wash Review

***Disclosure-Sample product was provided for review.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

As parents, we are always looking for products to use on our babies that are safe for them.  

Little twig products are a safe and natural bath time alternative.  They utilize the most effective organic and botanical ingredients in their simple recipe for pure and gentle personal care.  

Lavender has aromatherapy properties that are calming and relaxing.  It can be used for adults and kids.  

Little Twig Calming Lavender Baby Wash (www.littletwig.com) - This all-natural blend of soothing lavender, restorative chamomile and gentle bubbles turns your tub into a sanctuary of tranquil bath time bliss.  Provides aromatherapy benefits that are calming and relaxing, encouraging a better night’s sleep for baby. 

It is safe to use with the little ones.  I like that this product is paraben free and that it does not have any synthetic fragrances.  This product is ideal for sensitive skin like my daughter.  There was no residue left on her skin and it did not dry her out.   

June is National Fruit & Veggie month

***Disclosure-Sample product was received to review.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

The daily recommended allowance of fruits and vegetables for most children is five or more servings a day .  If you have a picky eater, this can be quite challenging.  I am so glad I do not have a picky eater but when she gets sick she acts like she does not want anything.  I like that I have an option like Sprout Baby Foods.

Sprout Baby Foods, leading company in organic baby food, can offer suggestions on the best ways to incorporate Fruits and Veggies into your child’s diet.

Sprout’s mission is to create delicious and nutritious foods using the finest organic ingredients. 

-Multigrain pillows filled with nutritious and naturally sweet fruit and veggie goodness.  

-Made with whole grains

• -Filled with real fruits and veggies
• -No added sugars
• -Never any additives or preservatives

-These snacks are super because their fruits outshine others in beneficial nutrients. These extra-special ingredients are combined with other favorites for extraordinary flavor.

• -A natural source of Vitamin C
• -A natural source of fiber
• -BPA-free packaging
• -Never any additives or preservatives
• -Never any artificial colors or flavors

I like that my daughter likes this and is getting all the nutrients she needs.  Sprout has different stages of food from baby to kids.

Dr Cotton Para Aveeno Baby

***Disclosure-No compensation was received.  Informational post only.

AVEENO® Baby, la marca recomendada por pediatras por más de 60 años, se enorgullece en presentar al Dr. Alberto Cotton, certificado por la Junta de Pediatría como su pediatra Hispano de confianza. 

Las Mamás Latinas Ya Tienen un Pediatra de Confianza

El Dr. Cotton es un reconocido pediatra radicado en Miami con 17 años de experiencia. Comenzó su carrera en Buenos Aires, Argentina donde se graduó de la Universidad de Buenos Aires y donde luego abrió su consultorio privado. Actualmente, el Dr. Cotton divide su tiempo trabajando en centro de urgencias del Miami Children's Hospital y su consulta privada. "Es un placer tener la oportunidad de trabajar con una marca tan respetada como AVEENO® Baby. Como pediatra, es importante poder recomendar y confiar en productos que ayuden a nutrir y proteger la piel delicada del bebé, y eso es exactamente lo que hace AVEENO® Baby", dijo el Dr. Cotton.  El Dr. Cotton será la nueva voz de AVEENO® Baby para la comunidad Hispana, compartiendo su experiencia profesional a través de entrevistas e iniciativas exclusivas. La meta de AVEENO® Baby y el Dr. Cotton es proveerle la información correcta a las madres latinas para poderles dar el mejor cuidado a sus bebés.  Asimismo, queremos ofrecerles entrevistas personales con nuestro Pediatra certificado de AVEENO®, fuente confiable de experiencia en el cuidado de los niños.

Cuida tu piel con JOHNSON'S® Baby

***Disclosure-No compensation was received.  Informational post only.

Ayer lleve a la nena al doctor, y me dijo el doctor que necesita cuidar la piel reseca que tiene la nina ahorita por el clima tan frio que estamos pasando ahorita-Artic Freeze.

Quero compartir consejos de como ustedes pueden usar el aceite y los talcos de JOHNSON’S® Baby para uso personal. Estos productos son perfectos para usar en esta temporada de frío, especialmente el aceite ya que puede ayudar contra la piel seca.  Proteje tu piel de tu familia.

Durante estos meses de invierno las bajas temperaturas dejan tu piel reseca.  Sigue una rutina para el cuidado de la piel este invierno con la ayuda de JOHNSON’S® Baby.

 Sigue  estos consejos fáciles usando el aceite JOHNSON’S® Baby y el talco JOHNSON’S® Baby para que tu piel luzca saludable durante estos meses de invierno:

1.  Aplica el aceite JOHNSON'S ® Baby después de salir de la ducha. La combinación del agua con aceite ayuda a mantener la piel hidratada durante todo el día.

2.   Secreto de la piel radiante de Jessica Alba: "Yo uso una pequeña cantidad de aceite JOHNSON'S® Baby mezclado con mi crema hidratante habitual para crear un brillo sutil.”

3.   Aplica una buena cantidad de aceite JOHNSON’S® Baby en tus pies y rápidamente ponte medias. A la mañana siguiente, los pies no sólo se sentirán muy bien (no grasosos), sino también se verán como si te acabaras de hacer la pedicura.

4.  Después de aplicar tu maquillaje, aplica el talco JOHNSON’S® Baby a tu cara para que tu maquillaje dure durante todo el día.

5.  Espolvorear el talco JOHNSON’S® Baby en tus manos y masajear suavemente el cuero cabelludo para absorber el aceite.

6.  Aplica el talco JOHNSON’S® Baby a los pies o a las axilas para absorber la humedad.

Don’t let the low temperatures of these cold months leave your skin dry.  Give your skin care routine a boost this season with JOHNSON’S® Baby. 

Follow these easy tips to keep your skin healthy-looking with JOHNSON’S® Baby Oil and JOHNSON’S® Baby Powder through these winter months:

1.   Apply JOHNSON’S® Baby Oil immediately after stepping out of the shower, while your skin is still wet. The combination of oil and water will helps keep your skin moisturized throughout the day. 

2.  Steal Jessica Alba’s glowing body secret: “I use a pea size amount of JOHNSON’S® Baby Oil mixed with my usual moisturizer to create a subtle shimmer.”

3.  Apply a good amount of JOHNSON’S® Baby Oil on your feet and quickly put on socks. The next morning, your feet will not only feel great, but they will look like you just got a pedicure!

4.  After applying makeup, dust your face with JOHNSON’S® Baby Powder to allow your makeup to last the entire day. 

5.  Sprinkle JOHNSON’S® Baby Powder on your hands and gently massage your scalp to soak up oil.

6.  Apply JOHNSON’S® Baby Powder to feet or underarms to absorb moisture.

Giveaway-Aveeno Baby End of Summer Prize Pack

Disclosure-No compensation was received.  Sponsor is providing prize pack for winner.  Any opinions stated are my own.

Twice this summer I had someone tell me about having a rash on their skin and wondering why?  My first question was - Was there any sun exposure?  My second was - Was there sun protection?  Babies and Toddlers need protection from the sun all the time even if you think the sun is not strong or hiding in the clouds.  Cloudy days can be very dangerous.  The UV rays are still there.  As the Summer comes to and end and the trips are almost over, don't forget to always protect yourself and babies from the sun.

Aveeno is a great brand because of it natural ingredients.  They won't irritate the skin, great for those with sensitive skin.  This is what the doctor's always have recommended to me.  Aveeno has sun care products:

AVEENO^®  BABY CONTINUOUS PROTECTION^® LOTION SUNSCREEN WITH BROAD SPECTRUM SPF 55

·         Formulated with ACTIVE NATURALS^®  Colloidal Oatmeal to soothe baby's delicate skin and help prevent moisture loss

·         ENVIROGUARD™ Technology maintains broad spectrum protection

·         Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, non-greasy and water resistant (80 minutes)

·         Developed specifically for baby’s delicate skin

·         AVEENO^® is the #1 dermatologist recommended brand for baby sunscreen

As well as: 

AVEENO^®  BABY SOOTHING RELIEF CREAMY WASH

·         Formulated with ACTIVE NATURALS^® Colloidal Oatmeal glycerin, a natural plant derived humectant that helps lock in moisture, and rich emollients blended into a creamy wash that gently cleanses and soothes baby’s delicate skin

·         The hydrating, rich creamy wash leaves skin feeling moisturized for 24 hours

• Gentle enough for baby’s sensitive skin
• Tear-free, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic and paraben-free

AVEENO^® BABY SOOTHING RELIEF MOISTURE CREAM

• Clinically proven to moisturize for 24 hours
• Formulated with natural colloidal oatmeal to help soothe and restore lost moisture
• Non-greasy formula absorbs quickly
• Gentle enough for baby’s sensitive skin
• Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free ·         Dermatologist and allergy tested

More and more, I am hearing about skin allergies and irritation.  Have you tried Aveeno? is what I always tell parents in this situation because it always helps us.

Giveaway- Aveeno End of Summer Prize Pack

How to enter:

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The Baby Signing Book, 2nd Edition Review

***Disclosure-Sample product was received to review.  All opinions are my own based on my personal experience.

My daughter, Lil Bit, was having problems communicating at day care.  Many friends, mothers, suggested I teach her sign language.  I thought it was a great idea.  From before she was born I had wanted to teach my kids sign language.  We had already been playing with a couple of words here and there that we learn from the baby channel.  But I didn't have all the words, or something to reference to.  So I needed a guide/book to help me.

I was offered the opportunity to review The Baby Signing Book, 2nd Edition.  It has helped me learn more words and to practice.  Teaching Lil Bit a few words.  It is learning for her and for us.  We will have to keep practicing and hopefully this helps her communicate better with others.  I can't wait to be able to sign a whole nursery rhyme or song!!

THE BABY SIGNING BOOK, 2nd Ed.

Includes 450 ASL Signs for Babies & Toddlers

 

Babies can learn sign language before they can speak, and sign language gives them a way to express their wants and needs, easing their frustration (and yours). Signing allows parents, siblings, caregivers and grandparents to know what a baby is thinking, curb challenging behavior, and have fun "chatting" about daily activities. 

Communication in any form, whether through words, cries, signing, or body language, allows us to bond with those around us. The ability to communicate enables one to connect, learn, and grow. 

The interest surrounding baby signing only continues to increase as more parents embrace this means of communication with babies before they can talk. This quick and comprehensive 'course' in baby signing features a program that caregivers can customize according to their family's needs and offers age-specific advice on how to teach sign language as your child grows and develops. 

This bestselling book on baby signing has been updated to include more ASL symbols, additional case studies and updated information. 

Part 1 of the book provides an introduction to signing with babies and young children. 

Part 2 is an illustrated dictionary of 450 ASL signs. 

Part 3 provides songs and rhymes you can sign with your child.

Special features include:

• The top five signing tips
• A program that parents can customize according to their family’s needs
• Answers to frequently asked questions
• Instructions on the five distinct components of ASL signs: body space, hand shape, movement, palm orientation and facial expression 
• Age-specific advice on how to teach sign language as your child develops

By simply following this book, a special world of communication awaits you, your family, and your baby.

SARA BINGHAM is the founder of WeeHands, the world’s leading children’s sign language and language development program for babies, toddlers and preschool children. She holds a BA in Linguistics and one in Psychology, as well as a post-graduate diploma in Communicative Disorders. Sara is the proud mother of two signing children and a frequent contributor to parenting magazines and baby-related professional websites. She lives in Ontario.