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7 Best Baby Shower Menu Ideas

Summer is a great time to host a baby shower! If you’re planning one for your bestie and her new bundle of joy we know that you have a lot to think about- location, theme, décor, games and food.

We’ve created this cool and easy menu to help you check something off your list. Because it’s hot outside, everyone wants cooler, lighter fare, and we know you don’t want to spend days working over a hot stove. We kept that in mind as we selected these great recipes that require little to no heat!

Veggie and Dip Cups

These portable little appetizers can be customized to your specific party. Fill the bottom with hummus or ranch (or any dip!) and add in whatever fresh veggies you’d like.

Mango, Watermelon, and Tomato Salad

How’s this for a summer salad? It’s a colorful array of mango, watermelon and tomato in a tangy, but sweet dressing- sure to delight your guests!

Savannah Cheesecake Cookies

These little cheesecake cookies aren’t really cookies at all, but mini bites of scrumptious cheesecake! They can be prepared one week prior to your event and only take 20 minutes to make.

Strawberry Country Cake

There’s something about strawberry shortcake that just screams summer. And the addition of the lemon and orange zest give this cake an extra dose of summer! The cake is easy to make and will be a lovely addition to your table.

Summer Peach Tea Punch

Summer days are hot so be sure that you serve a beverage that’s cold and refreshing. With hints of mint, peach and lemon, this sparkling iced tea will get the job done! If you’re looking for a summer cocktail, try one of these recipes from Pottery Barn. They’re wonderful for a large crowd!

Sandwiches are a popular choice at baby showers because they’re easy to prepare and easy to eat. Though we like the ever-popular chicken salad, we also love unique recipes and thought you might want to try something new at your next event. Both of these sandwiches are family favorites and we’re sure your guests will love them too!

Caprese Sandwich

If you’d like to offer a lighter or vegetarian option to your guests, try this simple Caprese Sandwich. Start with a French baguette or ciabatta bread, layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. Top with salt, pepper and balsamic glaze. Click here for a more detailed Caprese Sandwich recipe.

Roast Beef and Arugula Sandwich

1/4 cup Mayonnaise
1 Tbsp. Dried Onion Flakes
1 Tbsp. Spicy Mustard
1 Tbsp. Horseradish Sauce Or Straight Prepared Horseradish
2- 8oz. focaccia loaves
1 lb. thin sliced roast beef
2 oz. Fresh Arugula
1 tsp. Olive Oil
2 Tbsp. Shredded Parmesan

Combine the mayo, onion, mustard and horseradish to make the sandwich dressing.
Toss the arugula with the olive oil and parmesan.
Cut the focaccia bread horizontally so that you have a top and bottom piece.
Spread the dressing on the cut side of both pieces. On the bottom piece, layer the roast beef, top with arugula and the top piece of bread. Cut each focaccia into small sandwiches and serve. Enjoy!
Dressing adapted from Pioneer Woman Hot Roast Beef Sandwiches

About Cheryl Seidel
Seidel is a sought after etiquette expert and regular contributor for The Huffington Post and author of the popular Ask Cheryl blog. She helps advise readers with handy tips on how much to spend, when gift giving is appropriate and other would-have-loved-to-know-that-when moments in gift giving, She is also the founder and President of www.RegistryFinder.com, an intuitive search engine that helps gift givers quickly and easily find online registries for weddings, baby showers, graduations and more.

More baby shower inspo:
Baby Shower Design Inspiration by Envelopments
Baby Shower Gift Ideas: Gender Neutral
Baby Shower Gift Guide Picks

10 Nursing and Maternity Dresses We’re Buying from Amazon Right Now

by Jenna Hatfield Leave a Comment

If you’re looking to stay and look hot cool this summer, you’ve come to right place. We’ve rounded up 5 maternity dresses and 5 nursing dresses for you. We’ve covered everything from casual to fancy and in between.

Maternity Dresses

It’s hot. Being pregnant during the dog days of summer makes everything feel exponentially hotter. Even if you’re not normally the dress wearing type, throwing on a dress can help you stay cool. Plus, one piece of clothing feels lighter than multiple pieces.

Here are some maternity dresses we’re loving right now for mamas-to-be.

Maternity Striped Cami Dress – $35.99

This striped dress offers more than just a flowy shift to cover your bump. The tie feature in the front adds shape and the buttons down the front bring more style. The back is also smocked to adjust to your growing bust size. Pair this with some cute sandals like the model and head out.

Sunflower Maxi Dress – $38.99

Late summer is the perfect time to wear sunflowers. Throw this beauty on and head to a local sunflower farm to capture some gorgeous and timely maternity photos. As an added bonus, the shape of this neckline makes it a perfect candidate for a nursing dress.

Off-the-Shoulder Tie Dye Dress – $26.99

Get in on the summer’s hottest trend: tie-dye! These colors feel both funky and pretty at the same time. The off-the-shoulder look will look stunning for a dinner out on your favorite local patio at sunset.

Casual Midi Maternity Dress – $19.99

Need something more casual to throw on to chase your older kids around the yard this summer? This tank maternity dress is the perfect option. We love the animal print trend, but it also comes in solids and a few floral prints. Why not get a few?

Floral Bodycon Maternity Dress – $29.99

Attending a wedding or some other fancy function? This dress takes your look to the next level by showing off your baby bump. Pair it with some comfy but stylish flats so you can dance your little one to sleep.

Nursing Dresses

Nursing during the summer months can feel just as hot and uncomfortable as those months spent pregnant. Stay cool with one of these dresses that all feature easy access for your breastfeeding tot in one way or another.

Tank Style Nursing Dress – $21.99

Stay cool and look stylish while toting your newborn around this summer. Throw on this striped nursing dress and some easy kicks. We love that easy access panel and the fact that this dress comes in a variety of colors.

Button-Front Nursing Dress – $21.99

This dress can easily go from the office to the park. It uses buttons for nursing access. This particular polka dot print brings some class to a business casual look. Like some of the other dresses, it’s available in a variety of solids and prints.

Lemon Print V-Neck Dress – $27.99

When life gives you lemons, put them on a dress and rock it. This dress features a deep v-neck which provides easy access for nursing on the go. It also comes in other prints, but lemons remain all the rage this season. Don’t pass this one up!

V-Neck Floral Wrap Maxi Nursing Dress – $25.99

This nursing and maternity dress is a real stunner. The bold print offers some summer color on a cool navy background. The surplice neckline makes for easy breastfeeding anywhere you happen to rock this frock.

Adjustable Spaghetti Strap Nursing Dress – $27.99

This summery dress features adjustable straps so you can get the best fit possible. The snap-down style is quick and easy. But the truly best part about this dress? Pockets!

What dresses are you wearing to stay cool this summer, mamas?

More fashion posts for mom:
Breastfeeding Style for Nursing Moms
Fashion and Function: Back to Work as a New Mom
ORiANE Favorite: The Sara Turtleneck Tunic
Maternity Clothes for Working Moms: 5 Must-Have Pieces

Real Moms Tell Why The Boon GRUB is a Gamechanger

by Christine Swearingen Leave a Comment

The Boon GRUB is sleek in style with all the features you really want in a high chair. From a removable tray, seat pad, and seat that are all dishwasher friendly. Adjustable legs, tray, and footrest to give your child a custom fit and ensures you can use it from the countertop to the table. When your little one outgrows the baby high chair, the GRUB transforms into the perfect toddler chair. For only $149 with all these features, this high chair is a home run. Read on for some real mom reviews and see what they loved about this high chair.

Monique A. – Baby: 15 months

This High Chair was easy to put together, it took under a half hour. The directions were not the greatest, but we made it work. Once together there were some features we truly enjoyed. We loved how washable it all is, we loved the different levels of the chair, the footstool, and the straps to keep him in. Those straps were so easy and secure especially when needing to keep him safe once we removed the tray. It took a few trials to figure out how to easily remove the tray, but now I think we have it. At first, it was frustrating once we removed the tray because we had nowhere to put it, but then we figured out that it fits so easily underneath the seat. The only issue we have is we wish the tray could lock into place in the last slot. We cannot comfortably get our guy in and out of the seat without taking off the tray.

All in all we really love this high chair for all the reasons we stated above. We would highly recommend this chair as it is safe, sleek, easy to clean and grows with your child.

Christine Benton – Baby: 10 months

As a first time mom, I am always looking for products that are easy to use and more importantly easy to clean. The Boon high chair definitely hits both of those marks. We already use other Boon baby products, so it definitely makes sense to expand into this area now that our son is feeding himself. My favorite feature of the high chair is the fact that it can go into the dishwasher. Although I will likely hand wash often, the fact that it can be deep cleaned in the dishwasher when needed is clutch. There seem to also be very little crevices that food can get stuck in which is very important for me.

Overall, the all white chair is very sleek, which works well with our kitchen. It was fairly easy to assemble and adjust as needed. I do wish the high chair was a little easier to collapse or you could remove the legs to easily transport. As my son continues to grow I like that this chair has the option to also convert into a toddler seat. It seems like a product we will be able to use for several years which is definitely something I consider before purchasing baby or toddler products.

Thank you to Boon Inc. for making this sponsored post possible!
Add to Your Registry: Boon GRUB Highchair

Check out more Real Mom Reviews:
3 Real Moms Tell us Why this Pacifier is a Gamechanger
Motif Luna with Battery Breast Pump: Real Mom Review
Real Mom Review: The Super Easy-to-Carry Maxi-Cosi Coral XP!

5 Kindred Bravely Pieces for National Breastfeeding Month

by Jenna Hatfield Leave a Comment

Continuing to celebrate National Breastfeeding Month in August, we wanted to bring you some amazing nursing options from Kindred Bravely. Their mission is to create maternity and nursing clothes that are beautiful, useful, and comfortable. The options we’ve included here definitely tick off all of those boxes.

All-in-One Nursing Bras from Kindred Bravely

Sublime® Hands-Free Pumping & Nursing Bra – $49.99

Kindred Bravely Sublime Nursing and Pumping Bra

This all-in-one bra will be a new mom’s best friend. You can wear it for nursing sessions, and thanks to the patented Easyclip™ design, you can also wear it for hands-free pumping sessions. It’s underwire free for comfort and to keep your ducts free from blockage. It comes in heather pink, beige, and black. It securely fits all standard pump flanges, including Medela, Spectra, Lansinoh, Ameda, Hygeia, Philips Avent, Motif, and Evenflo, as well as wearable pumps like Willow, Elvie, and Freemie. Our readers can get a 20% discount on their first order by using the code GUGUGURU20.

Sublime® Hands-Free Pumping & Nursing Sports Bra – $49.99

The Sports Bra version of the Sublime Bra

If you’ve been cleared by your doctor to start working out again, you may also want to grab the Sublime Sports Bra from Kindred Bravely. It features that same Easyclip™ design that allows you to pump and nurse in the same bra. This sports bra is rated for medium impact, so it would be great for getting back into yoga, walking, light jogging, or a workout on the elliptical. It’s handy to not have to change bras before and after your workout just to feed your little one.

Nursing and Pumping Tanks

Organic Cotton Nursing & Maternity Henley Tank – $34.99

A henley tank from Kindred Bravely that has easy access for nursing

A nursing tank that actually boasts some style and looks like a normal everyday tank top? You’re going to want to stock up on this one! It comes in oatmeal heather and black, offering some neutral versatility to your nursing wardrobe. The fit looks flattering while also offering easy access for breastfeeding or pumping. Wear it on its own this summer or layer it under a tank when the fall weather rolls around in a couple of months.

Bamboo Nursing & Maternity Tank Top – $34.99

This bamboo tank feels so soft and comfortable, you might never want to take it off. It has unique side access for nursing and a hidden underlayer for discrete feeding on the go. It comes in both black and white. The roomy but flattering fit will make this Kindred Bravely nursing tank a staple in your postpartum wardrobe.

Swimwear from Kindred Bravely

Crossover Maternity, Nursing, & Pumping Tankini Top – $39.99

Kindred Bravely Crossover nursing tankini

Depending on where you live, there may be a few more months of swimming in your pool, lakes, and the ocean. If you’re due soon, you may want to grab one of these cute nursing tankinis from Kindred Bravely to make feeding poolside feel easy and stylish at the same time. It comes in this shell pink, a blue and white stripe, and black. (The matching swim shorts have a pocket that’s big enough for your phone.)

Kindred Bravely offers a lot of options for both nursing and maternity. Be sure to check them out to find pieces that work with your wardrobe and lifestyle. And don’t forget to use code GUGUGURU20 for 20% off your first order!

Thanks to Kindred Bravely for making this sponsored post possible.

25 Gift Ideas for a 2-Year-Old

by Jenna Hatfield Leave a Comment

So, your favorite toddler turns two in a couple of weeks. What do you get for them? We’ve got a list of 25 gift ideas that will appease the tastes of all different kinds of kiddos. Whether you have a 2-year-old who loves imagination play, one who loves to dress up, or a quiet reader, you’ll find a suggestion that will make their day.

Toy Gift Ideas

Melange Collection Elephant in Sweater, Blue – $40.00

Every child needs a beloved stuffie. This elephant brings whimsy and fun to all of your kid’s play. As an added bonus, Melange Collection works closely with organizations dedicated to empowering women through income generating projects. You can feel good about giving this gift (or any of the other cute options, like a fox, bunny, dog, and more).

Mouse Loves Pig Portable Car Carrier – $39.99

For the all-things-that-go lover, this portable play mat will carry a variety of cars and gives them a place to use their imagination and play. This is perfect for trips and outings to keep your toddler entertained.

Babymoov Indoor & Outdoor Tipi – $59.99

25 gift ideas: Babymoov Indoor Outdoor Tipi

This cute tent gives your child a safe, imagination-rich place to play, indoors or out. Our favorite part about this teepee, in addition to quick setup, is that it offers your toddler sun protection with anti-UV UPF50+ material. Set it up in the back yard, at the park, at the beach, or in your living room.

Plan Toys Doctor Set – $30

Is your little one always taking care of everyone? Do you want to nurture their spirit while encouraging more imagination play? Get them this doctor’s set from Plan Toys! Maybe you’ll inspire them to become a doctor when they’re grown. (Note: If they’re fascinated by teeth, the dentist set is also a fun option.)

Mouse Loves Pig Hand Kite Set – $54

Get moving and grooving with this set of six hand kites in red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple. You’ll inspire hours of imaginative play while also helping improve their gross motor skills. Win-win!

TROJOY Stacking Dinosaurs – $15.99

If you have a budding paleontologist, these stacking dinosaurs will provide lots of joy and hours of fun. As an added bonus, you’ll help solidify their knowledge of colors while they teach you about everything from the ankylosaurus to the triceratops.

SEREED Baby Balance Bike – $52.99

Recommended for ages 12-36 months, this baby balance bike will get them wheeling around in no time flat. You’ll help them develop balance skills and get them ready for their first pedal bike.

Clothing Gift Ideas

Clover Baby & Kids Monstera Short Set – $30

Whether they’re going to wear these to bed to dream of running through luscious monsteras or to play around the house, hiding behind their parents’ gorgeous plants, these comfy clothes will sure be a hit for parents and kids alike.

Gabri Isle Bunny Sweatshirt – $38.00

Hoodies with ears are always a hit. This bunny ear sweatshirt from Gabri Isle is the cutest thing. Ever.

Squid Socks Camping Edition – $24.00

Well, these are the cutest socks for your summer adventures. They feature woodland creatures, camping accessories, and some creepy crawlies. These socks have silicone dots at the cuff to keep them in place as well as grippers on the bottom to keep little feet from sliding on the floor.

Custom Hand-Dyed Pullover Hoodie – $36.00

Make sure they’re rocking the biggest trend of the last year: tie dye! You can pick your primary color and set them up in the latest trend.

Pull-On Rainboots, Cat & Jack – $19.99

If you give a two-year-old a pair of rain boots, you’re gonna have to ooh and ahh over them as they’ll be sure to show you their boots over and over and over again. That’s okay when it’s these tiger cuties from Cat & Jack at Target.

Corduroy Overalls from H&M – $29.99

Hit both the neutral color palate trend as well as the texture one with these corduroy overalls. They’ll be stylin’ more than you, and that’s a-okay.

Stripe 5 Panel Trucker Hat – $38.00

But imagine this hat paired with the corduroy overalls and a black long-sleeved t-shirt. Seriously. Toddlers today have all the fashion luck.

Unisex Stretch Jean Jacket – $22.00

This stretch denim jacket fits comfortably while looking uber-cool. It also comes in a light wash to mix up the look a bit.

Distressed Toddler Jeans – $14.99-19.99

Not only are these the cutest things ever, but they’re comfortable due to that elastic waistband. Whether you’re still changing diapers or working on potty training, easy on and off pants are key, even if they’re Cool Pants.

Training In Unders Organic Cotton 5 Pack – $35.00

Whether they’re ready right this second or have no clue about the potty just yet, some absorbent training pants are good to have on hand at this point. There’s also a five pack with cats, unicorns, and more if that’s their thing.

Gear Gift Ideas

Larktale caravan Stroller/Wagon – $449

Need a little more room now that your two-year-old takes up more space? The Larktale caravan Stroller/Wagon has room enough for two, perfect for playdates and more. They’ll be rolling in style. (PS: It has a really awesome rain and wind cover that you can buy to keep your little riders dry.)

CamelBak Eddy 14oz – $13.99

Since toddlers are always on the go, it can be hard to keep them hydrated. Make it feel fun by giving them their own water bottle like yours.

Bodhi Toddler Standard Bed by Karla Dubois – $239

Upgrade their bedroom from nursery to toddler by replacing their crib with a toddler bed. This one from Karla Dubois is modern and unique, allowing you to do so much with their newly redesigned space. While the bed comes in six colors, this neutral Pebble would suit any room.

Book Gift Ideas

Ekaterina Trukhan 5-Book Set from Workman Publishing – $29.75

These books from Workman Publishing are printed on an indestructible paper-like material. Your little reader won’t be able to rip, tear, or puncture the pages. This set lets them learn about numbers, colors, shapes, and more.

Families Can by Dan Saks – $7.99

The main idea of this 2021 book is that “a family is love no matter how it looks.” This important message is aimed at our youngest readers in this beautifully illustrated book. Additionally, Dan Saks has a number of other great books for this age group, including Families Belong and Families Grow.

Mrs. Peanuckle’s Hiking Alphabet – $7.99

If you’re a hiking family, already traipsing through wooden trails with your toddler strapped to your back, this is an alphabet book you simply must add to your library. “A is for Air; C is for Compass,” and so on. Teach your kiddo to speak your outdoor language now!

Nerdy Babies: Dinosaurs by Emmy Kastner – $7.99

Next up, we have the newest book in the Nerdy Babies series explores all things dino. They’ll learn about shapes, sizes, and yes, dinosaurs in the Mesozoic Era.

Maddie Frost Collection from Workman Publishing – $35.70

Another set of indestructible books rounds out our list. This one includes six books from Maddie Frost and brings three nursery rhymes and three explore-your-world type books to your library. They’re sure to be a hit.

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Well, there you have it. 25 gift ideas for 2-year-olds that are sure to bring a smile to your favorite toddler’s face. Be sure to let us know which items were a hit!

Check out some of our favorite gift guides:
Ultimate Gift Guide: Ages 0-2
Ultimate Gift Guide: Ages 2-5
Reima Baby Kit: The All-in-One Baby Gift
Work from Home Gift Guide

5 Best Items for National Breastfeeding Month

by Jenna Hatfield Leave a Comment

August is National Breastfeeding Month, a time when many parenting and baby organizations celebrate the importance of breastfeeding. Our spin on it, as per usual, is to bring you some of the latest and greatest gear and products for a nursing mama and baby. Let’s jump right in!

For Mama

Nunona Cashew Confetti – $35.00

National Breastfeeding Month suggestion: Nunona Cashew Confetti

We wanted to kick off our National Breastfeeding Month suggestions with something for moms. A new mom who is also breastfeeding needs extra energy to create milk and care for baby and herself. These plant-based treats are delicious and help make quality breast milk. One sleeve contains four of these yummy balls, which is the recommended amount for a day. The package contains enough sleeves for a week’s worth of super powered milk creation.

Earth Mama Organic Nipple Butter – $13.00

Breastfeeding Month suggestion: Earth Mama Organic Nipple Butter

Sometimes breastfeeding can be hard on a new mama’s nipples. Earth Mama Organic Nipple Butter will rescue you, returning your nipples to their happy place. Our favorite part about this handy stuff? It’s non-GMO verified, so you don’t have to wash it off before your next nursing session.

For Nursing Sessions

bbhugme Nursing Pillow – $89.00

National Breastfeeding Month suggestion: bbhugme Nursing Pillow

Our next suggestion for National Breastfeeding Month benefits both mom and baby. The bbhugme Nursing Pillow is easy to use and gorgeous to boot. The BPA-free silicone pebbles allow you to adjust the support for baby where you need it most. Additionally, it wraps around you and ties for a secure, slip-free fit that could help relieve strain on your neck and back. (Plus, there are cute extra covers as well!)

For Pumping and Storage

Nanobebe Breastmilk Storage Bags – $9.99

Breastfeeding Month suggestion: nanobebe Breastmilk Storage Bags

The next two suggestions for National Breastfeeding Month are from nanobebe for those mamas who are pumping and storing milk Breastmilk. Bags that lay flat?! Not only does this feel like a genius idea, but it’s actually better for the milk. It will thaw up to two times faster which reduces the amount of bacteria growth while also preserving nutrients. On top of being BPA and Phthalate free, these bags boast a double zipper to ensure you won’t have a heartbreaking spill.

Nanobebe Milk Organizer – $9.99

National Breastfeeding Month suggestion: nanobebe Milk Organizer

What’s better than breastmilk bags that lay flat? An organizer to place those flat bags in your freezer, of course! This innovative design will save space and time. You can organize your bags from oldest on the top to newest on the bottom so you don’t have to root around in your freezer to find which one to use next! (Note: The organizer comes with an additional 25 freezer bags.)

We love these helpful and unique items for moms and babies alike during National Breastfeeding Month and always. What items do you love the most for nursing moms?

Check out our previous breastfeeding picks:
Gift Guide: World Breastfeeding Week Picks
Gift Guide: Breastfeeding Must Haves
7 Must Haves for Breastfeeding Moms

3 Real Moms Tell us Why this Pacifier is a Gamechanger

by Gugu Guru 2 Comments

A pacifier can be a game-changer for parents and babies alike. When nanobébé created the Flexy Pacifier they were extremely thoughtful in their design. The nanobébé Flexy features one-piece construction, recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics, to reduce the risk of choking. The nipple is made of soft silicone, which is BPA and phthalate free. For breastfeeding mothers concerned about pacifier use, the ergonomic shape discourages nipple confusion. Our Gugu Village Parents were able to test the nanobébé Flexy Pacifiers and loved the durability, shape, and one-piece design.

Misty H. – Baby: Newborn
The nanobébé Flexy Pacifier is a great pacifier for both newborns as well as older babies and toddlers. It comes in two sizes: 0-3 months and 3+ months. I like the single-piece design – you never have to worry about anything getting trapped in tiny creases or crevices. It makes washing the pacifier very easy. The silicone is soft but durable at the same time.

For newborns, the lightweight, ergonomic nipple design will help ensure that it stays put and doesn’t accidentally fall out. As a breastfeeding mom, nipple confusion is definitely something I worry about when introducing a pacifier. The shape of the Flexy Pacifier helps to minimize this while promoting healthy oral development.

It comes in a variety of colors, including several that are very neutral. Overall I’m very pleased with both the quality and construction of the nanobébé Flexy Pacifier.

Heather L. – Baby: Newborn
Before using nanobébé, my daughter would only take one other brand of pacifier. This made daycare very difficult because they do not allow the animal attachment on the pacifier for fear of suffocation. We’ve tried a couple different pacifiers to see if she would take them for daycare, but she never would. The nanobébé pacifier is the first pacifier (that’s daycare approved) that she will keep in her mouth! She seems to really like it and is starting to choose it over her first pacifier. I have more peace of mind putting her down for the night with this in her mouth, knowing that there is no risk. I would highly recommend this pacifier and plan to buy more for my baby on the way!

Abby S. – Babies: 2 month old twins
I was nervous to add a new pacifier in the mix, but my little ones (twins!) took to the nanobébé quickly! It does look smaller than the pacifiers we had been using but I appreciated both the size and the modern shape. My kiddos have sensitive skin, so any way to minimize the area the pacifier is covering, the better! Since we are probably on our way out with the pacifiers, I like that the pacifier itself is smaller. I also love that it’s all one piece and can go into the dishwasher for easy cleaning! Overall, I would definitely recommend this as an option to keep in the mix.

Shop this post: nanobebe Flexy Pacifier

The Scoop: Aden + Anais Weighted Blanket

by Christine Swearingen Leave a Comment

Did you know that they make weighted blankets for babies and toddlers? They do! And when it comes to helping your little one get the best possible sleep, many parents find themselves willing to try different methods or employ new techniques. Enter Aden + Anais with their stylish weighted blanket options.

If you’re unfamiliar with the concept of weighted blankets, they are proven in clinical studies to both help alleviate stress and help promote longer, deeper sleep. They can promote happiness and reduce stress by releasing those happy-making hormones while simultaneously reducing the ones that cause stress. It makes sense that while a weighted blanket will help an adult sleep, it can do the same for the littlest among us. Just note that sleep experts do not recommend weighted blankets for babies under 20 lbs.

Aden + Anais created the embrace collection to help babies get their best possible sleep. They combine unique weight placement with 100% natural cotton, allowing you to use the weighted blanket all year long. Additionally, they make three different weights and sizes to accommodate babies of different ages and stages. Let’s take a look at what they have to offer.

On-the-Go Blanket

$59.95
Weight: 2 pounds
Recommended Baby Weight: 20+ pounds

This is the smallest of the weighted blankets from Aden + Anais, fitting easily into strollers to keep baby both calm and warm on your morning or evening walks. This blanket is for babies who weigh 20 pounds or more, meeting the weighted blanket guidelines of no more than 10% of the baby’s body weight. It comes in two neutral, modern prints that will look great tucked into your favorite stroller. A safety note: Babies should never sleep with a blanket. Keep this handy for your stroller rides and other outings.

Toddler Bed Weighted Blanket

$99.95
Weight: 2.65 pounds
Recommended Toddler Weight: 26.5 pounds

The next size up fits your toddler’s bed just perfectly. This weighted blanket will help your growing little one adjust to their new bed, soothing their anxieties and helping them drift off to dream with ease. Using this blanket as part of your sleep routine could make bedtime easier for your whole family. It’s made for toddlers who weigh 26.5 pounds or more. This blanket comes in three prints with colors that feel perfect for a growing toddler who wants to have a say.

Lounge Blanket

$119.95
Weight: 4.4 pounds
Recommended Toddler Weight: 44 pounds

Sure to become a favorite for the whole family, the lounge blanket is the largest option from Aden + Anais and feels perfect for snuggling together. You can throw it on your own bed for a joint naptime or cuddle under it for family naptime. It weighs in at 4.4 pounds, which means you could also use it as a solo option for kiddos who weigh 44 pounds or more. This weighted blanket comes in one classy, neutral print to complement your decor.

If you’re looking for an easy way to help your baby with sleep, starting with an Aden + Anais embrace collection weighted blanket seems like the perfect choice. You’ll be offering them a gentle hug when you can’t be there to hold them, calming their anxieties with ease.

Check out more must-haves for sleep:
Why You Need Natural Fiber Sleepwear for Your Baby
JPMA Baby Safety Tips: Safe Sleep Basics
Sleep Must Have: Weighted Blankets for Baby & Parents

5 Real Moms Tell us Why This Teether is a Gamechanger

by Gugu Guru Leave a Comment

Is your little one drooling, looking to chew on everything in sight and extra cranky lately? He or she is probably teething! Finding the perfect teether for your little one isn’t easy, but when you do, it’s like finding the holy grail.

The Moonjax Teether is just that! Moonjax is made from medical-grade silicone and, due to the lack of small crevices and holes, does not harbor bacteria. It is easy to clean and a favorite among babies. Our Gugu Village parents were able to test the Moonjax Teether. Here our Gugu Village product testers give us their real thoughts on the Moonjax teether.

David T. – Baby: 9 months

The Moonjax teether is a great product! Our daughter immediately grabbed for it and probably played with it, twisted and felt all the little bumps for about four minutes before chomping down on it. The teether is soft and squishy in the middle and a little bit firmer on the ends, which is a nice change for our little girl especially on days when those gums are angry! The unique design of the product allows our daughter to grab it in whichever hand and whichever way she wants and hang onto it when she’s biting down hard. The fact that we can chill the teether helps a lot and our daughter loves having the soft cold squish of the silicone to numb her gums. Overall we’re very happy with the product and I imagine it will get a lot of use while those teeth continue to push up.

Leanne P. – Baby: 3 months

My little guy has been chewing everything in sight and now has a new favorite toy, the Moonjax Teether. He was unsure at first but within a few minutes, it quickly became an appendage. It’s so easy for him to hold, he grabs it and likes to bring it with him when I carry him around. As a mama, I love the fact that it is completely solid so water and bacteria can’t get trapped. It’s so easy to wash and dry, and I love the fact that I can throw it in the dishwasher. I get some peace of mind knowing that it isn’t made with any dyes that could negatively impact my baby.

Daron O. – Baby: 4.5 months

The Moonjax Teether is fantastic! My 4.5-month-old doesn’t seem too fond of any other teething toys, rings, etc. besides our fingers and knuckles so I was immediately interested in this teether. Whenever we offer this teether he takes it right away. My fingers say THANK YOU! He likes to chew and suck on it. It seems like a great toy for motor skills and hand-eye coordination as well. He likes grabbing and holding it with both hands. I also like that it’s super easy to clean. I LOVE that I actually saw my baby’s tongue sticking out of his mouth while gumming this! He had his tongue tie revised twice but is still reluctant to use his tongue…until the Moonjax Teether! Since his teeth aren’t quite as far along, we don’t know if it provides relief of pain, but we are very optimistic.

Katherine H. – Baby: 8 months

I’ve been looking for a good and entertaining teether for my 8 month old son. This one certainly fits the bill!

His first encounter with the Moonjax teether lasted longer than anything else I’ve introduced for him to chew on. He can easily grab the teether and likes munching on the different nubs. I saw he repeats using one to get to his back gums where I think the new teeth are coming in. I loved that it’s BPA free, dishwasher safe, and made in the USA. But more importantly, my son loves it! We’ve also tried it cold from the freezer and he liked that too. It maybe doesn’t hold the cold for as long as the gel ones but he doesn’t seem to mind. I would recommend this teether to friends and family!

Alyssa N. – Baby: 9 months

It seems my 9-month-old son is a long, drawn-out teether, so I was really excited when Gugu Guru and Moonjax sent us the Moonjax Baby Teether to try! His top two teeth are trying to break through for weeks and all of the teething products I used with my older daughter do not hold my son’s interest. The Moonjax teether has a really sleek design compared to a lot of the other products on the market, and I love that it’s 100% silicone, which gives me peace of mind that it’s safe for my baby and easier to clean and sterilize. My son seemed to enjoy the teether at first, but alas, it still didn’t hold his interest as much as the plastic play food from the play kitchen. Since I have a crawler, I also noticed that when he crawled with the Moonjax in hand it would pick up any little piece of lint or dust on the floor, so that was kind of a bummer. It definitely wouldn’t be great for a home with pets. We’ll probably keep it in the diaper bag to use on the go when he’s a little more contained in the stroller. I still hold out hope that the Moonjax will become a favorite teether later on when molars come through. The ‘jacks’ design seems like it would be great for reaching those back teeth and providing relief!

Thank you to Moonjax for providing our Gugu Village Parents with Moonjax Teethers. We appreciate our Gugu Village Parents providing us with their honest thoughts.

To purchase a Moonjax Teether, click here!

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More to check out:
Real Mom Review: Eco-Friendly Mochi Teethers
Larktale Strollers Review by The Gugu Village
Top Baby Registry Items

Add to Registry: Toki Mats

by Jenna Hatfield Leave a Comment

What if you could combine your baby’s safety, cute photo opportunities, and comfort with an easy to care for product—and more? It would feel like something you wanted to add to your registry, wouldn’t it? And that’s just what Toki Mats are: a must-have product for your baby.

Toki Mats bring modern style to the traditional playmat. The prints and colors are much more subtle than bright, primary color schemes we’re so used to seeing in products for our little ones. Your baby will be comfortable and secure as well; Toki Mats have a one-inch certified natural latex foam insert and 100% cotton fabric covers to give your baby a soft, safe place to play and rest.

Toki Mats check all the boxes for parents with sustainability and safety in mind. They’re made from natural, organic materials, making them safe and chemical free. We know how important this is for parents, which is why it makes it the top selling point. But the benefits keep coming.

Another set of benefits we love is how the mat folds easily and is even washable. That way you can clean up any messes from your day of play before you store it. Your baby can play, roll, and rest in any room of your home, even those with hardwood floors. You can even take it along with you on your family getaways, giving your baby a comfy place to practice tummy time in the hotel, the playground while bigger siblings climb and play, and even on the sand for your next beach vacation. The possibilities are endless.

So, what’s our favorite part about Toki Mats? Oh, just how cute these playmats truly are! When you stop and look at how the many stylish prints Toki Mats come in, you’ll fall in love, too. Some of our favorites are Arches in White, Rainbow Watercolor, and the gorgeous Lunar Phases that we’re featuring in this post. You can find one that flows with your home décor, bringing a modern flair to your baby’s gear. As an added tip, they also sell covers to expand your print options.

You’ll want to add Toki Mats to your registry to get one before your bundle of joy arrives. They run $165 and imagine taking your newborn’s monthly photos through their first birthday with their stylish playmat as the background. You’ll get a lot of use out of Toki Mats throughout your baby’s first year.

Thank you to Toki Mats for making this sponsored post possible.

Find more sustainable and eco-friendly products:
Sustainable Nursery – Save Vs. Splurge
Affordable Eco-Friendly Baby Registry Picks
Safe, Sustainable Skin Care, Thanks to Thinkbaby

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Monique A. – Baby: 15 months

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All-in-One Nursing Bras from Kindred Bravely

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David T. – Baby: 9 months

Leanne P. – Baby: 3 months

Daron O. – Baby: 4.5 months

Katherine H. – Baby: 8 months

Alyssa N. – Baby: 9 months

To purchase a Moonjax Teether, click here!

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