The Girlfriends' Guide to Pregnancy
by Vicki Iovine
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (01 October, 1995)
list price: $14.00 -- our price: $11.20
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Editorial Review

Beginning with the "10 Greatest Lies About Pregnancy" (number 10: Lamaze works), and ending with postpartum dementia, Vicki Iovine's Girlfriends' Guide to Pregnancy has fast become the laywoman's mouthpiece for the American pregnancy experience. Iovine is irreverent, sassy, and incredibly reassuring as she exposes the "truths" of pregnancy and childbirth, from sex to cellulite to cesareans. Iovine birthed four kids in six years, none of them twins, which certainly qualifies her as an expert. The Girlfriends' Guide to Pregnancy does reveal Iovine's particular cultural biases (pregnant or not, most of us don't have record-producer husbands, hang out with supermodels, or wear size-four pants) and philosophical beliefs (she's not a particularly strong proponent of natural childbirth or nursing), but, taken with a grain or two of salt, she provides many hilarious moments, acres of advice, and honest reassurance readers will find nowhere else. --Ericka Lutz ... Read more

Reviews (777)

waste of money and time
I read the whole book and HATED it.I actually ended up personally disliking the author.It started out well enough, about how a community of supportive women is vital during pregnancy and motherhood.I agreed with that.But it quickly went downhill from there.
First of all, it seemed to me that her "encouragement" to exercise was an afterthought that her editors made her throw in - I got the distinct impression that her real opinion was that you're best off not exercising at all.She actually goes so far as to say that labor is easier if you're out of shape (!?)
Not to mention how incredibly dated some of the advice is - for example, the section on maternity clothes?Decent, relatively inexpensive maternity clothes ARE available nowadays, and the outfits she suggests sound positively hideous.I understand that a blazer over a unitard was considered fashionable in the early 90's, but honestly, who today would even consider wearing that?
And then she heartily reccommends CVS - an invasive, totally unnecessary in most cases prenatal test that carries fairly high risk and is not usually done unless there is a real risk of something being wrong with the baby.She advocates having it done just because.No real reason, just because.Huh?
The general message that I got from the book was, "you're taking unnecessary risks if you exercise, but unnecessary invasive testing procedures are awesome; you're a fashion victim if you don't wear unitards; you're a selfish masochist if you try for a natural birth."
And yes, I have a sense of humor, but no, I did not find her funny.Just really, really irritating.

Put me in the pro-Vicki camp
- Great to read before you start telling others you're pregnant.Reading it felt like chatting with my own dear girlfriends.

-The only pregnancy book my husband found interesting- helped open up some good discussions.

-As well as being hysterically funny, it was a better source of helpful information than I had anticipated, especially on topics like what to bring to the hospital (and why!) and what you need for baby.

- Includes a page you are instructed to leave out for your husband, informing him that he should bring a gift for you to the hospital.Resulted in a lovely new bracelet for me=)

- Certainly not a substitute for a more technical guide to pregnancy, but its lighthearted tone helped me keep things in perspective.

-Unlike some reviewers, I didn't find it at all offensive tonatural childbirth or breastfeeding.It was, however, equally supportive of those who make other choices, which is something of a rarity.

A slightly different take
Going through the other reviews here, I was first amazed at how polarizing this book is. But after a few minutes' thought, I could see what the problem is. Ms. Iovine and her "girlfriends" and their husbands are all a part of the California entertainment industry. This explains her occasionally cynical and often shallow attitude towards appearances, relationships and sexuality. She assumes that the concerns of her actress/model friends are the same as every other woman in the world, when in fact they are not. We do not all live in a bubble where appearances are the most important thing in life, and where our fabulously wealthy menfolk will dump us for some other Playmate the moment we let our perfect bodies get less than perfect. Let me clarify here: I think Ms. Iovine's overall point is to try to reassure us that looks aren't as important in pregnancy as in regular life. But she seems to forget that the majority of her audience isn't made up of starlets and rock-star wives and that our concerns and priorities are going to be different.

That said, there is a lot of helpful information in this book to be gleaned if you are willing to set aside the fact that Ms. Iovine's connection to how "real women" actually live is filtered through a gauzy Hollywood lens. I found the chapter on the actual birth process to be especially good as it was least filled with ranting about how awful you're going to look. The chapter on baby clothes and equipment was also informative for a first-time mother such as myself, since she takes the trouble to explain what certain things are for and how they should be used rather than just plopping down a dry list of 'stuff.'

If you are a strong proponent of natural childbirth and breastfeeding no-matter-what, this book will be outright offensive to you, so I suggest you stay far away from it. If you're open to differing views on these matters, then it should be easy to accept Ms. Iovine's opinions as what they are: opinions, something everyone has plenty of. There are dozens of books out there offering opposing viewpoints and they're not hard to find. ... Read more

Isbn: 0671524313
Subjects:  1. Child Care/Parenting    2. Family / Parenting / Childbirth    3. General    4. Pregnancy    5. Pregnancy & Childbirth    6. Topic - Family    7. Family & Relationships / General   

The Nursing Mother's Companion (Nursing Mother's Companion (Paperback))
by Kathleen Huggins
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (15 July, 1999)
list price: $13.95 -- our price: $11.86
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Reviews (117)

BestBreastfeeding reference out there
I totally disagree with the person that put this book down and touted the Dr. Sears book. I too have both books....in the early stages of breastfeeding when you and your little one are still trying to figure out everything....the Sears book is useless. It doesn't help you trouble shoot any problems you might be having...nor does it tell you things you might run into or pitfalls you might expect. This book however was my right hand guide. Any question or problem I ever had I always found a viable answer or suggestion in this book. That helped me continue on because I could carry on knowing everything was ok or that I should consult somebody for help. I think I am a testament to how helpful this was since I am still breastfeeding my daughter happily at 14 months and just starting to wean. My origional goal was only 6 months. Buy this book it is extremely helpful. Breastfeeding is not an easy thing even if your baby takes to it correctly right away. You have to be determined to make it work before the baby gets here. If you just say you'll try it...you will fail at it or give up fast most times I think. Any kind of helpful resource is a push in the right direction for the good of your baby.

"Survival" Sections are great "
This book answered a couple of questions that went unanswered in the Sears Breastfeeding book and in the LLL "Womanly Art of Breastfeeding", so I found it worth having.

Worth noting: the author, Kathleen Huggins is the lady who patented the "My Brest Friend" nursing pillow - a great nursing tool!

This book features "survival" sections which are highlighted for easy access and summarize the events of the child's and mother's breastfeeding needs at particular stages: "Survival Guide for the First Week", "Suvival Guide for the first 2 months", "Survival Guide for months 2-6" and "Survival Guide for the Later Months"

None of my three breastfeeding books have all the answers, but I think that if you bought this book and the Sears book, you will have all the info you need.

Covers all bases but is very very repetitive!
Though very helpful and it does seem to cover all area and questions/concerns a mother may have, it's also extremely repetitive! In every chapter I felt like I was re-reading something from the last chapter almost word for word. The same topics are addressed over and over. The book could be cut in half and still cover all bases. ... Read more

Isbn: 1558321527
Sales Rank: 13439
Subjects:  1. Breast feeding    2. Breastfeeding    3. Child Care/Parenting    4. Family & Relationships    5. Family / Parenting / Childbirth    6. Parenting - General    7. Family & Relationships / Parenting    8. Nursing - Maternity, Perinatal, Women's Health   

Tiny Love Gymini 3D Activity Gym in Black, White and Red
Average Customer Review:
Toy
-- our price: $39.99
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Editorial Review

Sometimes you just have to put down your little bundle of joy and give your arms a rest! Butwhere can you set someone who may not be able to sit upright? The Gymini 3-D Activity Gym may be theperfect answer. This award-winning portable, washable gym is easy to assemble. Simply spread the3-foot-square quilt on the floor and enjoy a vivid animal circus in red, white, and black. Slide two pliablearches into the corner sockets of the quilt, so that they cross diagonally. Clip the beads, rattles, and mirrorsinto the hole-punched arches. The dangles can be repositioned for endless variety. Babies can lie on theirbacks and stare up at the colorful dangling toys. The gym will improve babies' hand-eye coordination, andsoon they'll be reaching, stretching, kicking, pulling, and rolling--an adorable sight! To put away the gym,simply remove the arches, fold up the quilt, and tuck all the parts into a handy waterproof carrying case.--Kathryn Gustafson ... Read more

Reviews (247)

Can't get enough
We couldn't find very many black, white and red toys so we purchased this as soon as we saw it...and thank goodness we did.Our son loves it and can't get enough of it.

My son can't take his eyes off of it!!
My son loves this product.I love the bright colors and all the different interchangable toys you can purchase to go with it.Easy to wash and folds easily to store!LOVE IT!!!

THE BEST EVER
This gymni is a great buy. I bought this for my daughter when she was two months old and it was the greatest toy ever.She loved looking at the toys at first and begun to kick her legs.Within a few weeks she would bat at the toys and pretty soon she could grab them.This was the greatest toy for my newborn she could lay under it for hours.Which made housework so easy for me because she was very happy under her play gym.Great toy and I recommend it for any newborn.After she was to old for the gym at about six months when she could sit up.She now enjoys playing with the detachable rattle, mirror and music box. ... Read more

Asin: B00000J4SP
Subjects:  1. Activity    2. Gyms    3. Baby and Infant    4. Learning    5. Toddler    6. Stuffed Toys   

Who Loves Bab Y Photo Book
Average Customer Review:
Baby Product

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Editorial Review

Leave it to Sassy to make something fun (looking at pictures) even better. Each brightlycolored vinyl page has a pocket that holds a 4-by-6-inch photo. You can insert up to six familiar faces--faraway loved ones, or even Fido--for a great way to help baby build recognition and hand-eye coordination skillswithout drooling over, bending, or tearing your favorite snapshots. A nifty polka dot handle, whichdoubles as a teether, makes taking the book with you a breeze. And should Baby's Photo Book happen to encounter some jelly, oatmeal, or even strained peas, simply wipe it clean with a damp cloth andit's as good as new. --Melissa Wilson ... Read more

Reviews (50)

Great memories
This is a great way for my children to get to know their relatives.As they grow older we change the pictures to more current photos.It is very durable and can be wiped with a damp cloth.I have even used them for baby gifts and get great responses when I give them to people.

Baby's Photos!
Great first photo album for any baby, but especially those that don't get to see Grandparents and other loved ones often.Holds up to toddlers!

Great book!!
Our son LOVES this album!!! You won't be disappointed in its quality. Made to stand up to slobber and little hands that like to shred!!! ... Read more

Asin: B00000J0FW
Subjects:  1. Activity   

My First Fish Bowl
Average Customer Review:
Toy

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Editorial Review

This fabric fish bowl is as charming as it is easy to clean. Part of the award-winning Lamaze Infant Development System, this innovative baby toy stimulates a whole new world of sensory exploration. Each adorable oceanic creature has its own distinct pattern, texture, and sound, and babies will soon distinguish between the plush clam, the crab that crinkles, the sea star that jingles, and the sunny-faced fish. The fish bowl has clear sides to view the marine life and for playing games of fishing each one out. All of the pieces are made of brightly colored fabric that cleans up with a damp cloth. --Lynne Sampson ... Read more

Reviews (67)

A great, colorful toy!
Our son liked this toy from when he was tiny, about three months old, through even now, when he's over a year. Little babies like the bright colors and interesting textures and sounds -- crinkles, bells, etc. -- and older babies like to carry around the fish and put them in and take them out of the bowl. This toy is one of our favorites. The only bad thing is it's also one our cat's favorites, and she likes to steal the fish to cuddle with them!

Cute and fun
This toy is very cute and appeals to my 6 month old.She loves the colors and shapes!I think its educational value will increase as she gets a little bit older, and can put the toys back in the 'bowl' -- right now it's fun to pull them all out!

*I* love this thing
I saw this toy before I was pregnant and though it was so cute!
So after I had my daughter, I had the best excuse to buy it!!!

She loves it.I bought it for her when she was about 3 months old.She'd chew on the little clam.Now she uses it to learn that they make noise, and she can put them in and take them out of the bowl.

It's worth the money.Cute, educational, (quiet.. heh), and durable. ... Read more

Asin: B00000ITJ4
Subjects:  1. Baby and Infant    2. Learning    3. Toddler    4. Activity    5. Hand-Eye Coordination    6. Stuffed Toys   

Boynton's Greatest Hits: Volume II (The Going to Bed Book, Horns to Toes, Opposites, But Not the Hippopotamus)
by Sandra Boynton
Average Customer Review:
Board book (01 September, 1999)
list price: $21.95 -- our price: $14.93
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Editorial Review

The thinking's not fuzzy in these board books, but the animalscertainly are. Sandra Boynton's familiar furry creatures introduce simple concepts in this bright collection of four books, replete with clever line drawings. In Horns and Toes and In Between, three horned monsters teach the parts of the body in rhyme: "...and we have a fuzzy TUMMY that we all like to pat / and a little BELLY BUTTON in the middle of that."The Going to Bed Book gets a Noah's Ark of animals organized for bed: "They hang their towels on the wall / and find pajamas, big and small." Opposites is just that: cute animals "high and low / fast and slow / heavy and light / day and night." In the rhyming reader But Not the Hippopotamus, a hippo finds himself on the outs as "a cat and two rats are trying on hats. / But not the hippopotamus. / A moose and a goose together have juice. / But not the hippopotamus." Rest assured the hippo finds love at the end. (Baby to preschool) --Claire Dederer ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Get these four and you'll still want more!
These were among the first books we bought for our son, who is now one year old. We like them so much we ended up buying the other box set, too. And some other Boynton books as well.

Sandra Boynton's books have a terrific rhythm to them that makes them fun to read. "The Going to Bed Book" was an immediate hit with my husband because it's fun -- a great bedtime story, but not as sappy as classics like "I Love You as Much." The other three titles in this collection score just as well with our son and with us.

What I love is how these books work on several levels. For the youngest readers, they present eye-catching illustration and simple rhymes. As the child gets older, the books have larger lessons to teach, from the concept of "Opposites" to the deeper, more poignant message of "But Not the Hippopotamus," the tale of a hippo who's left out of all the fun until the other animals finally invite her to join in.

If you're asking yourself whether you really need FOUR titles by Sandra Boynton, well, at least for us, four was only the beginning. So take advantage of the low price of buying them as a set.

My daughter's favorites!
When I first got this group of books (and also the other set), it didn't hold my daughter's attention.She was still just a baby, so I'm assuming the pictures didn't thrill her.Then she turned 18 months...In the last three months I think I've read each of these books at least twice a day.I know them by heart and she does too.In fact she sleeps with a couple every night!

Simply essential for every well-read infant.
I think "The Going to Bed Book" is the best night-night book ever written."But Not the Hippopotamus" is a tear-jerker - "But YES the hippopotamus!" - and "Horns to Toes" is a rockin' good book to sing, rather than read.Sandra Boynton is wonderful; I want her to come to my house and hang out.In the meantime, I'll settle for reading these books to my kids and making sure that every baby *I* know has them in his library. ... Read more

Isbn: 068982663X
Subjects:  1. Animals - General    2. Children's Baby - Boardbooks    3. Children: Preschool    4. Concepts - General    5. Humorous Stories    6. Juvenile Fiction   

My Many Colored Days Board Book
by Dr. Seuss STEVE JOHNSON LOU FANCHER
Average Customer Review:
Board book (08 September, 1998)
list price: $6.99 -- our price: $6.99
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Editorial Review

The words and illustrations of Dr. Seuss have alway seemed inseparable--a peerless fusion of verbal and visual wit. Yet when the good doctor wrote the manuscript for My Many Colored Days in 1973, he specified that the book should be illustrated by "a great color artist who will not be dominated by me." Twenty-three years later, he has gotten his wish.Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher have produced a series of rich, painterly images that could never be mistaken for faux-Seuss. They have, however, caught something of his simplicity, and just as important, his sense of whimsy. ... Read more

Reviews (46)

Love it!
When I read this book to my children (ages 4 & 1) I always try to emphasize the emotions & feelings behind each color & painting using my voice...I think it is an excellent book for opening up a dialogue with kids about their emotions & learning how to express them.

The paintings are inspiring but ordinary in a way that when you look at them you think "I could paint that!". Really a great, great book! It's a continuous favorite in our house, a must have for every child's book shelf!

I recommend the board book for younger kids because it IS so well loved & read. The images on the pages definately call out to be touched by little hands!

tomorrow could be different
I would highly recommend this book to anyone--young & old alike!I think it is especially good reading for those feeling like they are in a slump and finding it hard to move on.This book shows that today you might feel like it's a black, brown, or purple day, but if you hold on until tomorrow, you may have a yellow or pink day.Although this book was purchased for my two toddlers, who both love it, this is a coffee-table book at our house.

My 10 month old's favorite book
I wouldn't have expected it but this is my 10 month old son's favorite book. I think he likes the bright colors. Also the way the text is written inspires you to change your voice which he really has enjoyed. The bright colors, simple but cute graphics, short and rhyming verse all combine to make a really neat book. This is the first book that my son has really showed interest in, he actually coos and babbles and touches the pages as I read it to him. He sits through the whole book and likes it to be read to him more than once every day. I've tried "Goodnight Moon", "Guess How Much I Love You", "The Runaway Bunny", "Mother Goose", etc but no other book has fasinated him so far as much as this book. I'd highly recommend it. ... Read more

Isbn: 067989344X
Subjects:  1. Children's Baby - Boardbooks    2. Children: Grades 1-2    3. Color    4. Concepts - Colors    5. Day    6. Emotions    7. Fiction    8. Juvenile Fiction    9. Social Situations - Emotions & Feelings    10. Social Situations - Self-Esteem & Self-Reliance    11. Juvenile Fiction / Social Situations / Self-Esteem & Self-Reliance   

Ls Light-up Carousel
Average Customer Review:
Toy

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Reviews (11)

top
I was sorry that you didn't have these available because I wanted to get my grandson one for Christmas. I found one at Target so we will see if he likes it.

ENTERTAINING BUT NOT STURDY
MY 8 MONTH OLD LOVED THIS TOY BUT IT BROKE A FEW WEEKS AFTER HE RECEIVED IT AS A GIFT.

My son's favorite toy for over 6 months...
I bought this for my son when he was 9 months old.At 9 months old he was able to master this toy, which made him feel very confident in his abilities.He is now 19 months old and still visits it often.We now use it to identify animals and primary colors.I would highly recommend this toy to parents of 9 month old babies. ... Read more

Asin: B00000IRT4
Sales Rank: 23281
Subjects:  1. Games    2. Electronic    3. Learning    4. Toddler    5. Activity    6. Electronic Learning Aids (ELA)   

Busy Bug Stroller Bar
Average Customer Review:
Toy
-- our price: $14.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

The Busy Bug Stroller bar is a portable stroller bar andactivity center for the baby on the move. The colorful soft cloth mainbar is 15 inches long by 2 inches in diameter; Velcro bands allow foreasy positioning in front of your baby on almost any stroller, swing,or infant seat. There are five activities, including a twirling bug, abumblebee atop a twisty plastic stalk, and a crunchy-sounding clothbutterfly. The most distracting feature might be the removable,dishwasher-safe snack cup in the center, which has a flip-up,bug-decorated lid for hiding (or revealing) snacks. --Richard Farr ... Read more

Reviews (93)

fits on combi great!
my daughter loves this for the past four months (she is 9 months now).Still will play with it.only reason i didn't give it a five star was that the food cup in the bug comes off way too easily.

Don't buy if you have Peg Perego Stroller!
I was disappointed that the packaging says "fits all stollers" I have a Peg Perego Venezia and when the snack tray is on this toy can not fit on it! I also found that it does not stay in position easily if you can attach it to a regular size bar. Because of the round base it moves on the stroller making it difficult for your child to play with.I returned mine to the store the very next day!

My daughter loves it but...
My daughter loves this but like others have said it doesn't fit on the Graco Quattro Travel System.I have gotten it to work but sometimes it gets in the way of latching the snack tray on the front.I still love it and so does my daughter. ... Read more

Asin: B00003TL3H
Subjects:  1. Baby and Infant    2. Stroller Toys    3. Bugs   

Roundabout 5 Pt Car Seat
Average Customer Review:
Baby Product

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Editorial Review

With a double layer of soft foam and a distinctive Cool Blues plaid-and-denim seat cover, this Roundabout car seat offers your baby or toddler a comfortable ride in a well-designed car seat. The Roundabout is expensive, but it comes equipped with reliable safety features--including a five-point harness, a seat-belt lock, and a factory-installed safety tether--as well as some extra components designed to enhance your child's comfort while on the road. The Roundabout measures approximately 25 inches high and has a weight range of 5 to 30 pounds in the rear-facing position and 20 to 40 pounds in the forward-facing position. To accommodate for the size of a growing child, the seat comes with a fully adjustable harness. You can adjust the shoulder height of the harness for three different levels, set the seat's recline position for two different angles, and release the harness completely by pressing the harness-release button located conveniently on the front of the seat. Velcro swatches on both sides of the seat cover have been added as a place to fasten the harness straps when you are loading and unloading your child. You can spot clean the blue plaid seat cover or remove it from the seat and throw it in your washing machine. --Chris Burns ... Read more

Reviews (60)

no better brand
I had no idea what I find I had in the Roundabout until I started looking for another seat to accomodate my almost three-year-old at the top end of the weight and height limit for this seat. I've researched and even bought other car seats that are so hard to install properly! The Roundabout is so easy to install correctly, takes so little time and effort thanks to its built in belt clip, and it truly does not move once installed.We are going to purchase a Marathon next, for the weight limit of 65 rather than 40 pounds, and I know my child will be safe.Worth every penny!

The Best!
I purchased this car seat because it came so highly recommended.My son is very tall and very active and this seat is holding very well. Some people complain about the difficulty of the latch but if it were easy my son would have opened it by now.
The car safety instructor told me the Britax was the best on the market.And my child's safety is worth every penny.

One of the nicest carseats out there
We really liked this carseat.We also got a Cosco Alpha Omega (also sold as the Eddie Bauer Alpha Omega) carseat, and it was not as nice as the Britax.I'm a big fan of everything Britax makes.

My only suggestion is that if you have a tall baby, you consider the Britax Marathon -- it's JUST like the Roundabout, but gives you a couple more inches height-wise before they grow out of it.My son is 24 months, 36" tall, and has grown too tall for the Roundabout.We now have a Britax Marathon in one car and a Britax Husky (big big big!) in the other.

All Britax's seats are very well made, safe, easy to clean, and generally NICE. ... Read more

Asin: B000056C9U
Subjects:  1. Gear    2. Car Seats   

Ultrasaucer
Average Customer Review:
Baby Product

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Editorial Review

This saucer is the ultimate stationary exercise and entertainmentcenter. From 4 months onwards, babies can safely swivel, bounce, rock, andplay to their hearts' delight while stimulating their developing senses andconditioning leg muscles in preparation for standing and walking. This deluxesaucer comes equipped with 10 brightly colored activities that adapt verywell to baby's developing skills. Six interactive toys, a water-filledteether, four musical toys, and two soft plush friends entertain and amuse.Babies will delight in playing with unbreakable mirrors, chewing on a brightsunflower teether, spinning a rattle filled with colorful beads, listening tomusic, or just jumping and swiveling around in the machine-washable, paddedseat. Easily wiped clean with a damp cloth, the UltraSaucer adjusts to threeheight positions and assembles in a snap. Although it's rather pricey andcumbersome to store (24 by 15 inches at its tallest position, excludingtoys), this center is well worth every penny--if only for the freedom to takea shower it provides a busy mom or dad! --Deb Oroszlan ... Read more

Reviews (233)

Absolutely Fantastic!
We bought this for our now 3 year old son for his first Christmas.He loved it!We've since passed it on to our friends for their baby.This is a great way to keep baby busy while you get ready in the morning.This combined with the Baby Einstein videos gave me the freedom to get dressed in the morning or mop the floor or anything else you can't do while holding a baby.

A Mommy (and baby) must-have!!
Our daughter LOVED this toy!!!She would sit, play, bounce, and enjoy it for hours.And I was able to take a shower (and do other things, too) without one of us bursting into tears in frustration!Though pricey, it is worth the money.Granted, there may be a few children out there who would not enjoy it, but they are probably few and far between.This toy does take up some space, but it's not that bad.A hint: though much more expensive, if space is at a premium, there is a similar toy available that folds down (can't remember if it's Graco or Evenflo--check it out).Another hint: you might also try hunting for these at garage sales and second-hand stores (like Kid-to-Kid).It will cut down on the cost, and they're usually in pretty good condition.I HIGHLY recommend purchasing this toy!!!

Great for baby, great for parents!
Whoever came up with this one deserves a medal. At 6 months, our son loves playing in it and stays entertained. He's really taken to grabbing and playing with all the attachments and I would even go so far as to say it's helping him develop strong hand-eye coordination.Best of all, baby stays occupied while we cook dinner or do anything that requires putting him down for a few minutes.Defintely the best baby accessory we acquired! ... Read more

Asin: B000050YQ7
Subjects:  1. Activity    2. Play Centers    3. Stationary Entertainers   

Rock-a-stack
Average Customer Review:
Toy
list price: $3.99
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Editorial Review

For generations babies have delighted in this classic stacking toy. Consisting of five bright candy-colored rings in graduated sizes looped over an 8-inch-tall plastic post, the Rock-A-Stack helps babies develop coordination as they learn to stack the easy-to-grasp rings in the proper order. Little ones will have the time of their lives sorting, stacking, and tasting to see if the rings really taste as good as they look. Made of absolutely safe, washable soft plastic suitable for teething. --Marianne Painter ... Read more

Reviews (43)

A old favorite never gets stale!
Simple yet fun, this brightly colored plastic ring toy is the perfect first baby toy for any child. Teaches colors, coordination, and balance. I have had ours since our first daughter's birth more than two years ago and it still holds her attention as she learns new motor skills at each stage of development.

In the beginning it's just fun for a baby to look at, touching it to cause the base to rock back and forth without toppling over. Then as baby learns to remove the "Lifesaver Styled" rings, they become familiar with how they each fit on the rack.

Color recognition comes later, and of course we always had fun playing peek-a-boo with our eyes hidden inside each hole!As our kids became more imaginative, they pretended the rings were donuts and served them up on their tea set.

The toy is durable, quick to clean, easy to store or take along on trips. This Fisher Price old time favorite is a must-have goodie for your baby's toy box.

A classic toy
My son has been playing with this since he was 6 months old. Even before he could stack the rings were fun to hold and play with.

The one I have has the top 2 rings as red and orange and it is a little hard to tell the shades apart though. I think they need to be more distinctive.

Tried and true!
I remember playing with this toy as a kid. Now, having 13 mos. twins I see their delight playing with it. We don't always get them in the right order but they clap after they put each one on. Easily 15-20 min. spent focusing on this toy at a time. ... Read more

Asin: B00000IZQP
Subjects:  1. Baby and Infant    2. Learning    3. Toddler   

Symphony Mirror
Average Customer Review:
Toy

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Editorial Review

Curious babies will find the Sparkling Symphony Mirror to becaptivating and soothing. Create a stimulating interactive environmentin your child's crib or car seat with this toy that features theclassical music of Mozart and Beethoven, three children's songs, andmagical sound effects. Simply attach the toy to the side of yourchild's crib using the adjustable straps. For newborns, the mirror canbe set to provide two minutes of uninterrupted lights, sound, andmusic. As your baby grows, adjust the unit to the second mode and theycan bat at the rolling music bar for a musical surprise. Either way,the colorful lights dance around the round safety mirror with the helpof three AA batteries. --Melissa Wilson ... Read more

Reviews (82)

My daughter loves this toy!
I bought this toy for my daughter when she was about 4 months old.It quickly became her favorite crib toy.She thought the mirror was interesting but she loved the music and lights.It didn't take long for her to figure out how to make it play. After a very short while the music (which is very nice compared to some toys out there) would be the first sounds I would hear in the morning...she would wake up and immediately begin playing with it and I could "sleep in" for an extra 30 min while she was playing away!My daughter is now 2 1/2 and still wants to play with this toy even though it's now been given to the new baby!

This toy was love at first sight ( and self sight! )
I bought this toy as a Christmas gift for infant twins that I was caring for, and from the instant the paper was torn off, they were fascinated by seeing themselves in the mirror. Of course, the concept of it being them was beyond them at their age, but they absolutely loved seeing something stare back at them. Eventually, they figured out how to make the star sides light up, and that was just sheer delight for them. The little girl fell asleep to the music many times, and it kept her soothed and sleeping with it's repeating song patterns, ( which made it alot easier for me, since she tended to be a light and restless sleeper! The steady music kept her calm and sleeping! ).

This was definitely a great choice, and a toy that I know they will enjoy for quite a long time to come! I recommend it for anyone whose looking for a bright and inviting way of engaging your little one in music, observation and general self amusement and play!

Good Mirror
We bought this mirror since it played music but our daughter is not really interested in it right now.But other than that it seems to be a great product but make sure to have lots of batteries since they have already died and she hardly ever used it. ... Read more

Asin: B00004R8VT
Subjects:  1. Learning   

Planet Sleeps
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (06 May, 1997)
list price: $9.98 -- our price: $9.98
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Everything about this CD, from its eye-popping cool packaging to its beautiful booklet, is wonderful, perhaps peerless. It's a study that spans 16 countries, catching paeans to childhood sleep from varied traditions. The set traverses the Cape Breton Gaelic tradition with the Rankin Family, Haiti with pop stars Boukman Eksperyans, and the African continent with music from Tonga, Algeria, and Cameroon. Despite their distances from each other, at times the songs sound quite alike. Voices might begin alone but then gather into choral size, with a reliance on wordless passages to emphasize the flow of time as sleep encroaches. In execution, the surprises are many. Algerian Houria Aïchi sounds East Indian; the Traditional Japanese Music Ensemble of New York sounds poised somewhere between a stately concert of historical court music and a touching homage to childhood; and German singer Michelle sounds pop-music ready even as she toes the line on singing a sleep-triggering song. Beyond being a great collection of international music, this is probably the most interesting mix available of cultural voices approaching the issue of children sleeping. --Andrew Bartlett ... Read more

Features

• Enhanced

Reviews (41)

Music for everyone to enjoy
You don't have to be a child to enjoy the beautiful songs on this album.This is a wonderful change from the "typical" lullabye collections.In addition to loving the songs themselves (and their calming effect on both my infant and me), I especially appreciated the detailed booklet that explains the origin of each song and gives some background information about the different cultures represented on the album.This collection truly has something for everyone, no matter what your age.

Superb!
This is one of the best musical investments you'll make, regardless of whether you purchase this album to soothe your children or to soothe yourself.The disc is VERY reasonably priced, and for your money you'll get a superb collection of incredibly relaxing songs from around the globe that I PROMISE you will not grow tired of.Our daugther is seven months old, and it is not an exaggeration to say that I listen to this CD at least 4-5 times in any given 24 hour period (once during her morning nap, once during her afternoon nap, and at bedtime when we put it on "repeat").That's a lot of time spent listening to one CD, yet I never, ever tire of it.In fact, on many occasions I am nursing or rocking my daughter while The Planet Sleeps is playing, and I nod off before she does!You truly will not regret purchasing this album (especially given how inexepensive it is), and it makes a terrific gift as well.

great cd!
i just recieved this a few days ago and it's awesome!first of all the packaging is really cool.not your typical boring jewel case with sleeve insert.it's made of beautifully printed heavy stock paper and opens to reveal the cd and the sleeve is tucked neatly away in it's own pocket.but the magic really happened when i put the cd in.i played it for my parents first and the kitchen was instantly filled with a beautiful ethereal voice in a gaelic melody.as the songs continued, they were equally as good as the first.i haven't played it for my 9 month old daughter yet, but i like it enough to have gotten it for me!my dad even wants a copy for his car! ... Read more

Asin: B000002BOW
Subjects:  1. Alternative Pop/Rock    2. Indian Classical    3. Int'l & World Music    4. Lullabies    5. Pan-Global    6. Pop    7. Worldbeat   

Peace Planet Aquarium
Average Customer Review:
Toy
list price: $29.99
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Editorial Review

Soothe your baby to sleep with this unique aquarium-shaped musicbox that can sit on the dresser or be strapped to the crib railing. Switch on thewater-filled aquarium and two little fish swim in circlesagainst a gently illuminated beneath-the-sea background. You'll hear therising bubbles (though the motor almost drowns them out). For more interestingsounds, choose from two dual-tone lullabies(each plays for approximately seven minutes) or four aquaticsounds, including ababbling brook, falling raindrops, splashing fish, or ocean waves. You canadjust the volume on these and find just the right level to lull your baby to sleep.A light feature illuminates the fish, projects rippling waves onto your baby'sceiling, or does both at once. You can also switch off the lights if your baby prefersto doze in the dark. --Elisabeth Fredrickson ... Read more

Reviews (595)

Great toy, but it eats batteries & the gears can wear out
I love this toy. Plain and simple. I love the different sounds, the "waves" that shine on the ceiling and the fact that it has a volume control (more toy manufacturers should take that hint). My 2nd son looks towards it every time we put him in his crib as if to say, "Hey Mommy & Daddy, are you going to turn on my fishies?" My first son loved this as well. I do wish that it stayed on a little longer and that it didn't eat batteries so quickly. We have owned the Peaceful Planet Aquarium since December 2000, and used it for my first son for about 4 months. After he outgrew it, we stored it back in the box until my second son was born in 2002. These days, the fishies don't want to spin around, as the gear to spin them seems to not be catching properly. My husband gives it a good whack, which usually gets it going, but I hate doing that. The waves still work, as does the sound, but without the spinning of the fishies, well, it kind of kills the charm. Overall, a great product and a neat idea for little ones.

A soothing nightlight for infants
Its a soothing toy that can put anyone at ease, It's durability is remarkable since our has taken a few falls since the little ones grew and still works like new. Only problem is it eats batteries extremely quickly!

Wonderful
This simple toy is wonderful.My baby just loves to turn it on and watch the fish go around.He conks right out.This toy has several sounds including 2 lullabyes, white noise bubbles, or ocean sounds.You can even turn off the sound.There is a volume control too.It also has multiple settings for the lights.You can even turn off the lights and just play the music.It turns off automatically after a few minutes too.I set it differently to keep it fresh and interesting for my baby.We really like this toy.

One negative--it takes 4 C batteries.After 5 months, I had to replace the batteries twice.We don't even use it every day. ... Read more

Asin: B00000IZL1
Subjects:  1. Learning    2. Toddler    3. Activity   

Dinosaur's Binkit
by Sandra Boynton
Average Customer Review:
Board book (01 September, 1998)
list price: $10.95 -- our price: $8.76
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Sandra Boynton turns on the charm again in this story about a cuddlydino who refuses to go to bed until he (or she) has the right comfort object. A reflective silvery moon, some pull-out flaps, and a liftable bedspread with a reluctant hero hiding beneath it offer the very small reader a way into the story. The "Binkit" itself, a piece of soft yellow felt, can be stroked for reassurance. Reluctant bedtimers from one to three will enjoy this introduction to the idea of a bedtime routine that ends with comfort, closed eyes, and peace. (Baby to age 3) ... Read more

Reviews (44)

no fail reading for kids
I have 3 boys and every one loved this book.It is the best book I have ever found for starting that all-important love of reading.Only 1 child had a "bink-it" but each one was captivated by this book at very early ages, usually 6mos and up.
I have been looking for something similiar in attraction ever since(okay, I'm going a little crazy after reading this 1,000 times or so!)

A bedtime favorite!
I love Sandra Boynton's work.They are just as much fun for me to read aloud as they are for my son to listen to.This book is currently a favorite for my 9-month old son at bedtime.As soon as I bring the book out and put it in front of us to read, he smiles and reaches for the cover to touch the "binkit".He loves to lift the flaps, and Dinosaur makes him smile.

Astounding call for moderation
Boynton's musical rhymes have a magnetic, mesmorizing rhythm that transcends age, gender and cultural paradigms to coalesce the essensial and mystical nature of sleep. Why do we sleep? When do we sleep? With whom? Should we wait until marriage to sleep with our partner? All these questions underly the deceptively innocent structure of this book to create a provocative work of compounded interest. ... Read more

Isbn: 0689822030
Subjects:  1. Animals - Dinosaurs & Prehistoric Creatures    2. Bedtime    3. Bedtime & Dreams    4. Bedtime Stories    5. Children's Baby - Boardbooks    6. Children: Babies & Toddlers    7. Dinosaurs    8. Fiction    9. Interactive Adventure    10. Juvenile Fiction    11. Specimens    12. Textured books    13. Juvenile Fiction / Animals / Dinosaurs   

Goodnight Moon
by Margaret Wise Brown Clement Hurd
Average Customer Review:
Hardcover (03 September, 1947)
list price: $15.99 -- our price: $10.87
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

This cleverly boxed gift set contains a board-book copy of the classic bedtime story Goodnight Moon and a soft, baby-safe rattle in the shape and colors of the little bunny in the book. The book is propped open to one of the charming two-page illustrations of the bunny's room in the warm glow of evening lamplight, and the rattle is placed in front it as if it's inviting you in for a cozy snooze.The package comes with a mail-in card to receive free from the publisher a copy of Grow a Reader: A Guide to Sharing Books with Babies and Toddlers. --Katherine Ferguson ... Read more

Reviews (334)

Can't believe I am giving it 5 stars
A while back I wrote a negative review of this book because I thought it was strange.(I deleted the review only a day or so after writing it, however).Like some others, I could not see the appeal of this book and didn't understand the particular writing style.I had read it to my child a few times and then stopped for a while.

Well, a couple of months ago I started reading this book at bedtime some and guess what - the baby really likes it!Now if my child likes it, then I cannot help but like it!He is 13 months old now and this is one of his many favorite books.It is part of our bedtime routine and is special to me now because I share with him each night.I am sure when he grows up I will have fond memories of "Good Night Moon", and may become sad when he thinks he is too old for this story.

Somehow, I do feel it is a sweet little book.We received 2 copies as gifts - I doubt I would have ever bought it on my own - but it has become a special tradition for us!

Going on copy number 2
We love this book.My son adores it.After bath time, we put him in his crib and give him a book to play with while we read him another one.Goodnight Moon is one of the very few books that he has no desire to play with or read another book while we are reading this one (Guess How Much I Love You is another).

We love this story because it is so interactive.Now that he is getting older, he points out all the things in the story, he counts to three (three little bears sitting in chairs) and he says Night Night after each Good Night page. We just love it.

As I said we are going on book number 2 here.The first book is too well loved and we need another copy of it.

Truly a timeless classic.

Am I Nuts?
I purchased Good Night Moon for my baby Grandson.I thought this was the most over rated book ever. I told myself maybe I am old fashioned and remember the books I read to my children. after reading all of the reviews written in by customers, I finally found a couple of "Men" that see it my way. "Dad" and "Book Dad" hit the nail right on the head. I also think all of these people love this book because they think they have to like it for some reason. This Grandma can not recommend this book when there are so many better ones out there. ... Read more

Isbn: 0060207051
Subjects:  1. Animals - Rabbits    2. Bedtime    3. Bedtime & Dreams    4. Children's Baby - Picturebooks    5. Children: Babies & Toddlers    6. Classics    7. Fiction    8. Juvenile Fiction    9. Rabbits    10. Stories in rhyme    11. Juvenile Fiction / Bedtime & Dreams   

Child of Mine: Original Essays on Becoming a Mother
by CHRISTINA BAKER KLINE
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (10 November, 1998)
list price: $12.95 -- our price: $10.36
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Take away the pink glow of diaper commercials and what is motherhood in the '90s about, anyway? In this collection of original essays, thirty-five writers, including Naomi Wolf, Susan Cheever, and Mona Simpson, talk about their expectations and experiences of new motherhood. The writers range widely in age, race, and cultural background, and so does the tone of their essays--from heart-wrenching to thoughtful to laugh-out-loud hysterically funny. What they have in common is their strength of voice. This is an excellent choice for those interested in parenting issues, as well as those interested in good literary writing. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

One star is not low enough.
This book is quite possibly the worst expression of motherhood that I have ever run across.I am the mother of a 9 month old baby and have read more than my share of child rearing and motherhood books.These essays all seem to be geared towards the negative and selfish aspects of the writers lives. Pregnancy and childbirth are portrayed as predominantly negative experiences which will infringe on the otherwise productive lives of the "mothers" who wrote them. Fathers and doctors are shown as incompetent buffoons who are not necessary or even conducive to a good pregnancy/birthing experience. In fact, in many of the essays pregnancy is expressed as a weakness that the women finally succumb to, not as the precious gift that it is. As a woman and as a mother I was wholy offended and put off by this derogatory and negative view of pregnancy and children. I would whole heartedly not recommend this book for anyone, most especially for those who do not have practical experience with pregnancy and their own children.

My Favorite Gift For First-Time Moms
This is an absolutely wonderful collection of first-time-mother experiences, and I've given this book as a gift to many of my new-mom friends. I ordered this as part of a batch of mommy books from Amazon without thinking too much (impulse buy), but it quickly became my favorite...so much so that I bought a few extra copies as loaners and gifts so I'd always have my own on hand. Much to my delight, I found an essay by Sarah Bird, my favorite writer, but almost every story is meaningful and relevant. This group of writers brings you into the community of mothers, across age, race, and income. The introduction is also worth reading, because it explains how first time mothers really hunger to find out whether their experiences are unique and isolating, or universal. We want to read other accounts not so much to benchmark ourselves but to reassure ourselves that the sometimes overwhelming and exhilarating feelings of first-time motherhood are normal and shared.

Very helpful for new moms
I really liked - and appreciated - this book.Some essays were more easily for me to identify with, but all were so very helpful during my first month or two of being a mother.I'd recommend buying it and reading during your last 2 months of pregnancy, if you can. ... Read more

Isbn: 0385333021
Subjects:  1. Childbirth    2. Family & Relationships    3. Family / Parenting / Childbirth    4. Family/Marriage    5. Mother and infant    6. Motherhood    7. United States    8. Family & Relationships / Motherhood