Sleep

“Smart” Registry Round-Up

Technology is great… when it works! Here we are to discuss some of our favorite “smart” baby products for 2023 that will absolutely make your life with kiddos easy peasy!

Smart Baby Monitors

Gone are the days of the audio-only baby monitors that many parents used to rely on. Now, parents want real-time information about their little ones to keep worries at bay. The newest monitors on the market are able to give you clear video while tracking things like breathing and sleep. They will alert you when your baby wakes up in the morning, your toddler rolls over in bed, or your big kid jumps out of bed to use the potty.

Nanit offers a sleek smart camera with a variety of stand options. They track sleep history and analytics to provide parents with insight into sleep patterns. Pair with their Breathing Wear to keep an eye on baby from anywhere!

We also love the smart monitor by Miku. They have come up with a way to monitor your little one (including breathing) without any wearables. Like Nanit, they have two-way audio and you can check in from anywhere.

Hatch Grow Changing Pad (and Rest Sound Machine)

The biggest worry parents have for their newborn is if he or she is gaining enough weight. Parents tend to track every feeding, diaper, and milestone. However, tracking weight is generally done only at the pediatrician. The Hatch Grow Changing Pad allows you to monitor baby’s weight between pediatrician appointments. While it’s not a replacement for doctor’s weight visits, it will help ease your mind.

Hatch has also secured their place in the smart bedtime routine. Hatch Rest has become a must-have accessory for many of our families, who love to pair the nightlight/sound machine with their smartphone. The Rest + has a laundry list of features, and will last well beyond the toddler stage!

Blueberry Pediatrics

We’ve been at this COVID lifestyle for more than 2 years. As you’ve parented throughout the Pandemic, you have most likely dealt with other illnesses – RSV, Flu, Strep, Ear Infections, Colds, the list goes on. Wouldn’t it be nice to be connected to a team of Pediatricians who were available 24/7, 365 days a year so you could avoid unnecessary trips to the Emergency Room or Urgent Care when your pediatrician’s office is unavailable? You can! Blueberry Pediatrics provides access to pediatricians around the clock. They can help check your child out and even call prescriptions into your pharmacy. No longer worry about your little one getting sick in the evening (or on vacation, like our kids always do!). Don’t take our word for it! See what Cassy – a mom of 3 who spends lots of time at the pediatrician, has to say.

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Playard Picks: 2022 Edition

by Abby Ludwig 1 Comment

Playards have become a necessity for many families over the last 10 years. They are the true multi-functional item that you will use again and again as your little one grows. In the newborn days, your playard may be a safe sleep spot for the baby. It takes up a small amount of space next to your bed, keeping the baby close for those middle-of-the-night feeds. Many playards have a bassinet setting, which is also great for naps throughout the day. The changing station (which is included with many playards) is an excellent place to change your little one, especially if the nursery is far from your play area. Plus, the playard will easily fold up for travel and is a great place for your toddler to sleep while on the go. A true must-have, take a look at our best playards for 2022.

Breeze® Plus Playard With Bassinet & Changer | 4moms®

Easiest Fold: 4moms Breeze Plus

The 4moms breeze plus is a playard, bassinet, and changing table in one. It is easy to move around the house, always giving you a convenient place for the baby to sleep. The Breeze Plus is extremely easy to open/close and is an excellent secondary changing station. The bassinet is compatible with up to 18 pounds while the playard will hold up to 30 pounds. The removable bassinet, changer, and playard are all easy to clean with a simple damp cloth.

Eco-friendly Pick: Lotus Travel Crib from Guava Family

The lightest playard, the Lotus is GreenGuard Gold non-toxic certified (low VOC & no lead, phthalates, PVC, heavy metals, etc.). Full-height mesh guarantees breathable airflow. Plus, parents are just crazy about the side access panel that allows you easy access through the lockable door. Set up is simple and the Lotus playard only weighs 13 lbs packed, making it an excellent choice for travel. The Lotus comes with a backpack carrying case and a thick, soft foam pad approved for overnight sleep (0-3 years old.) They have also launched their Bassinet & Crib Kit.

Budget Pick: Graco Pack n Play Reversible Napper & Changer LX

The Graco Pack n Play Reversible Napper & Changer includes a newborn napper station for baby to sleep and reverses to a changing table for easy diaper changes. After baby outgrows the removable full-size bassinet, the Graco Pack n Play easily converts to a portable playard. The napper and bassinet can be used for babies up to 15 pounds. This playard also includes a toy bar with plush toys.

Multiples Pick: Romp & Roost

Romp & Roost is the ultimate playard for twins or even just for one baby. This stylish, oversized playard can be used for a play area or sleep space. This play yard includes a patented, removable divider that separates the space into two spacious spaces with an airy mesh fabric. The Romp & Roost features large wheels with brakes and a convenient carry bag making it perfect for trips to grandma’s house.

Modern Pick: Nuna Sena Aire

The Nuna Sena Aire is an easy-to-use playard with an innovative, chic design you won’t mind having out in your home. Unlike many other playards, the Nuna Sena Aire is easy to open and close with one hand and easily slides into the included travel bag. You can be sure your baby is comfy with full mesh sides and the included quilted mattress. The mattress can be used in the higher position as a bassinet and easily moves to the lower position for use until your little one is 30 pounds.

Minimalist Pick: Bugaboo Stardust

Looking for something unique that meets your minimalist aesthetic? Bugaboo Stardust unfolds in 1 second and stores easily. Great for that room where you need baby to nap, but want your floor space back each morning! An excellent choice for toddler play in a small space.

Top 5 Must-Have Essentials: First Night Home With Baby

by Gugu Guru Leave a Comment

What do you really need when bringing baby home from the hospital? Obviously, you won’t need your high chair, convertible car seat, or even the bulk of your little one’s clothing. But there are a few things that you’ll want to have on hand to make your transition to parenthood seamless for you and baby.

A Safe Place to Sleep + Swaddle

It’s easy to forget about setting up a safe place to sleep, as it’s both so obvious and necessary. We look to the AAP when discussing safe sleep recommendations, and follow the ABC’s of safe sleep.

A- Alone : Baby should sleep in his/her sleep environment on their own.
B- Back: Put baby down to sleep on his/her back.
C- Crib: On a firm, flat environment, like a crib (or bassinet/playard) without any extra blankets, stuffed animals, or bumpers.

Baby should also be swaddled tightly with a swaddle blanket or a wearable swaddle.

Easy Clothing Options

It is so hard to avoid buying clothes for your little one. But, the reality is that it’s best to hold off on purchasing too much. Once you know how your little one is growing, it’ll be easier to buy clothes for the right size and season. Stick with onesies and PJs that are easy to get on/off. Check out our full overview of Newborn Clothing here.

Diapers, Wipes, Ointment

Diapers, wipes, and ointment may seem obvious, but sometimes they’re the easiest items to forget. Stock up on one box of newborn diapers and a box of size one. While you may need to order more newborn diapers, all diaper sizing will overlap and you don’t want to end up with too many extras. One container of ointment is great for the start, but stock up on wipes. You will use them for years!

Feeding Supplies

No matter how you are planning to feed your little one, you will want to be stocked with the right supplies. Like every other category, be careful not to overbuy. You won’t need breastmilk storage on day one, but you will want to have your nursing bras/tanks if breastfeeding. If you’re bottle-feeding, you may want to buy bottles in both small and large sizes. However, you really only need large bottles. You can always fill with a small amount of breastmilk or formula! And, make sure to purchase slow flow nipples if your large bottle doesn’t come with them. If you’re going to pump, plan on securing your breast pump before your little one arrives.

Postpartum Care for Mama

It’s easy to spend all of our time and energy putting together the necessities for our little ones, but don’t forget about yourself! You have just delivered a new baby (or possibly babies) and you will need to have some postpartum necessities to make yourself a bit more comfortable. Disposable Underwear, Perineal Spray (or Balm), and Organic Cotton Pads will make you feel just a bit closer to normal.

If you’re recovering from a C-Section, take a look at our Recovery Must-Haves.

Sleep Hacks for Every Age

by Abby Ludwig 1 Comment

Are you having a hard time getting comfortable in bed throughout your third trimester? Struggling with a nap routine for your 3-month-old? Looking for help through another toddler sleep regression? We’ve asked our Gugu Guides for their favorite sleep hacks. Take a look below to see what they recommend!

For Pregnancy & Little Ones

Elina’s Review of Crane Humidifer & Mookabee Swaddle

Crane’s humidifier is great for stuffy noses for Mom and baby. This cool-mist humidifier is a must-have in any sleep environment that gets dry. Elina also loves the Mookabee Swaddle with the power of scent technology. A great sleep hack for new moms.

For Newborns

Dominique’s Review of the Love to Dream Swaddle Up

Domi loves the Love to Dream Swaddle Up as a way to ensure good sleep from day 1. Allows baby to catch some zzz’s all while learning how to self-soothe.

From the Newborn Stage

Larissa’s Review of the Dohm Noise Machine

“This thing is amazing. As soon as it’s time for bed, I turn this on and my baby knows it’s time to calm down and go to sleep.” – Larissa

From Infancy – Early Childhood (and beyond!)

Haley’s Review of the Hatch Sound Machine (and nightlight!)

This sound machine and nightlight in one is so easy to use and great for middle-of-the-night feedings. You can control it from both the machine and also an app. While the original version has to stay plugged in, the newer Hatch Rest + has a backup battery. Both versions will also give you okay to wake functionality for older kiddos. Great sleep hacks, Haley!

For Toddlers and Young Kids

Erin’s Review of the Dreamland Baby Weighted Blanket

“I was a little nervous about a weighted blanket… but this is the perfect weight. If I’m being honest, I also use it for myself when I’m cozying up on the couch.” Please do note that this weighted blanket is recommended for little ones ages 3+ and 30 lbs or larger.

Need more guidance?

Jen’s Review of the 30-Minute Sleep Support Consult

Looking for more guidance? Check out Tot Squad’s Sleep Support Virtual course. Full of sleep hacks for moms of little ones trying to create a great routine.

Our Gugu Guides are here to be your eyes and ears throughout the parenting and pregnancy journey. They have so many tips and tricks that will work with every child and product imaginable! Want to become a Gugu Guide? Apply here!

Check out more Mom Hacks from other Gugu Guides!

Travel Must Have: Slumberpod Review

by Gugu Guru Leave a Comment

About the author:

Denalee is a frequent traveler with her 18 month old. She tested the Slumberpod for us in both a hotel room and at a vacation house. Check out what she had to say below!

Traveling with baby or considering taking a trip in the near future with your little one in tow? If you’re sharing a room with your babe, a stickler for scheduled sleep times or perhaps traveling to another time zone, check out this review of the SlumberPod from Gugu Guide and frequent traveler, Denalee, who just came back from a vacation with her 18 month old son, Mikey.

What is the SlumberPod?

The SlumberPod is a portable blackout solution for peaceful sleep on-the-go. It is a quick-assembly privacy pod that helps babies/toddlers get a good night’s sleep — especially important when sharing a room with others or when napping conditions are not ideal. It completely encloses a playard (travel crib), mini-crib, or select toddler cots. SlumberPod makes it easy to create the perfect sleep environment at home and while traveling.

I used the SlumberPod in two different situations; a vacation house and then a hotel room. I am covering both scenarios in this review of the SlumberPod.

Vacation House Review

Pros:

The room was not very dark at all so it was really helpful to have the SlumberPod, especially at nap time!
The room also does not have AC, I was a little concerned with the lack of airflow since the room is warm and the air from the room’s fans can’t really penetrate the tent when it is sealed. However, I opened the windows a little and kept the zipper partially open and the temperature was fine (I stuck my son’s monitor in there with him so it measured the temperature and it was completely fine!)

Cons:

The bedroom was a normal size bedroom and I didn’t realize how big the SlumberPod was. It feels huge over our small travel crib but after I used the SlumberPod again I think it was just a combination of the room size and the furniture in it. As you’ll see in the next scenario, when you’re using the SlumberPod in a hotel environment I don’t think this is an issue. We still made it work with the vacation home bedroom, it was just a tight space to move around and with so many people doing Airbnb in lieu of hotels these days, I thought it would be good to call this out.

Hotel Room Review

Here we used the SlumberPod with a traditional play yard. The SlumberPod was clutch on our recent vacation to Chicago. In a hotel setting, there is plenty of open space for the SlumberPod and we didn’t even notice the size. We were traveling for a wedding and had a babysitter set to watch my son one night. It was really nice to be able to let her use her phone/iPad in the room and not worry about the light. Additionally, the bathroom had a glass wall to the bedroom so anytime the bathroom light was on you could see it in the bedroom. The SlumberPod allows my son to nap while others are doing things in the hotel room that require light, e.g., getting ready for the wedding, and helps him sleep more soundly at night away from home. I was still concerned with putting the TV on while he slept in the SlumberPod but it was more a concern for noise than for light.

Overall, I highly recommend the SlumberPod. I do wish I had started using the SlumberPod when my son was younger. Although he was excited to hang out in it when he first saw it set up he was hesitant to go in at bed time and I had to climb in with him to get him to calm down (normally he goes down easily on his own). Also, I would highly recommend practicing setting it up. It took me a few tries at home to get it right and I was so happy to tested it first. The instructions are a little bit confusing but they suggest you watch the video and the video was very helpful to set it up. At first I was concerned it would be one more thing to lug around when traveling but it fit right in our car seat bag without an issue so we hardly noticed we were bringing it. It folds into its travel bag really easily too so taking it down is a breeze.

Grab your SlumberPod now to join you on any holiday travel!

Enjoy this post? Check out more travel posts:
Cruising with Baby
Our Best Travel Tips
Our Fav Picks: Travel Car Seats
Gugu Gift Guide: Travel Picks for Mom

Registry Dilemma: Swaddle Blankets? Wearable Swaddles? Sleepsacks?

by Jenna Hatfield Leave a Comment

When it comes to sleeping and babies, parents want a tried and true way to get baby to sleep–and to stay there. Swaddling has long been a safe and proven method for helping baby drift off to dream. As a new parent, you might feel overwhelmed by the swaddling options, variations, and stages.

We will walk you through some ages and stages, sharing some of our favorite options in each category.

Swaddle Blankets

The options for simple swaddle blankets are endless, and chances are your baby will be rolled up like a burrito in one if they are born in a hospital. That’s because doctors and nurses know that swaddling helps newborns transition to life outside the womb. The swaddle can help babies soothe and sleep more easily.

Most swaddle blankets are made of cotton, sometimes referred to as muslin, because the fabric is soft and breathable. A regular swaddle blanket works for your baby until they can break out of the blanket on their own. Once they start doing this, it’s time to move to another type of swaddle that we’ll discuss in just a bit. Make this change to keep your baby safe, avoiding any loose blankets in their crib.

Here are a few of our favorite swaddle blankets.

Rookie Humans Moon and Stars Bamboo Swaddle – $25.00

Rookie Humans makes their swaddle blankets from viscose and bamboo. They’re incredibly soft, and the prints are picture-perfect.

Aden + Anais Cotton Muslin Swaddle – $16.95

Aden + Anais swaddle blankets are made of muslin and come in a variety of adorable prints as well. They also offer a number of variety packs.

Copper Pearl Knit Swaddle Blanket – $26.95

The knit swaddle blankets from Copper Pearl are made with baby’s sensitive skin in mind. We chose to highlight their adorable Trick print just in case you have a brand new fall baby.

Wearable Swaddles

Once your swaddle-loving sleeper starts breaking out of traditional swaddle blankets, it’s time to move to the wearable swaddle. For some babies, this may happen as early as 1-2 weeks. Wearable swaddles are a little easier to put on, sometimes employing zippers or velcro. You can use this middle version of a swaddle blanket until your baby starts rolling from back to tummy. Wearable swaddles are also safe to use from Day 1, but they may not keep baby as snug as a swaddle blanket.

Here are some great options in this category.

Love To Dream Swaddle Up – $34.95

If you have a swaddle-lover who also prefers the arms up sleeping position, this is the wearable swaddle you want. The fabric allows baby to self-soothe and the zipper makes midnight diaper changes super simple.

ergoPouch Cocoon Swaddle Bag – $49.99

The ergoPouch cocoon is “easy to use and hard to escape from,” allowing your baby—and you—some extra sleep time! It also converts to a sleepsack, making this multi-functional.

SwaddleMe Original Swaddle – $34.99

The SwaddleMe uses velcro to wrap around baby and is incredibly easy to use.

The Ollie Swaddle – $59.00

The Ollie Swaddle is made from moisture-wicking fabric to help avoid overheating. If you’ve got a little heater at night, this might be a great swaddle to try. It also transitions well to an arms-out position when baby is ready.

Sleepsacks

Once your growing baby is rolling from back to tummy (generally around 3/4 months, but every baby is different), it’s time to graduate to a sleep sack. They come in a variety of styles and are called a number of different names: sleep sacks, sleep bags, and wearable blankets are some of the most common ones we see. They allow for your increasingly mobile baby’s arms to be out while providing them with some extra coverage without an unsafe extra blanket in the crib.

We love these sleep sacks.

Kyte Baby Sleep Bag – $56.00

Kyte Baby’s Sleep Bag is made from bamboo as well, so it feels incredibly soft while also being very breathable. We love the jewel tone colors as well as this seasonal shade of olive green.

ergoPouch Jersey Sleeping Bag – $49.99

If your little one loved a swaddle, they might love the slim fit of the ergoPouch sleeping bag. Their arms will be out, but the mid-section still fits close to their skin.

Love To Dream Sleep Bag – $54.95

This is a perfect transition from wearable swaddle to sleepsack. Both wings can be unzipped allowing for an easy move from a swaddle your little one already loves. The inverted zipper will also make middle of the night diaper changes a breeze.

Halo Wearable Blanket – $24.99

While you’re waiting for your little one’s letter to Hogwarts, you can put them in the Harry Potter wearable blanket from Halo, keeping them safe in their crib and warm at the same time.

There are so many options from newborn to older baby when it comes to sleep garments. The important thing is to find one that works for your baby’s age and stage as well as their own unique sleeping needs.

See more top sleep tips:
*Infant Sleep Garment Picks
*Books and Bedtime for Baby

Infant Sleep Garments | Gugu Picks

by Gugu Guru Leave a Comment

Looking for the best infant sleep garments for your baby? We’ve got you covered. Check out our favorite swaddles and sleepsacks below, ready to help you catch those extra zzz’s. These are our top picks for 2021, accourding to Gugu Guru’s Director of Education + Parent Training, Abby Ludwig. As a safe sleep reminder, remember to follow the guidelines put out by the AAP and never swaddle once your little one is rolling over.

Best Swaddle for Self-Soothing: Love to Dream Swaddle UP

The Love to Dream Swaddle UP is often our top recommended swaddle for new parents. It is extremely easy to use, and launches Love to Dream’s 3-step approach from swaddling to independent sleep. The swaddle’s wings keep your baby’s arms up, allowing them to self-soothe more effectively from Day 1. Once your little one is ready to move on from swaddles, the Swaddle UP Transition Bag allows you to zip-off one (or both) wings, giving them the perfect transition without losing any sleep. They have organic and non-organic options, as well as a variety of patterns and colors.

Best of Infant Sleep Garments for Eco-Friendly Families: ergoPouch

ergoPouch is our go-to recommendation for families looking for that eco-friendly swaddle option. Their Cocoon Swaddle Bags are made with GOTS certified organic cotton as well as elastane, allowing baby to move freely but still restrict the startle reflex. Plus a quick zip of the arm flap, and your swaddle bag instantly becomes a wearable blanket. ergoPouch has an entire line of safe sleepwear that will hold up to the toughest little sleepers.

Best of Infant Sleep Garments for Budget-Friendly: Swaddle Me

Swaddle Me is often the go-to for that experienced mom down the street. They work well, wash well, and most importantly, come in a ton of different styles. Swaddle Me has different swaddling options, but they all are meant to be user-friendly and will become your go-to from day one. The biggest selling feature for Swaddle Me? We love that you can get nearly all of their swaddles in a multi-pack, meaning you’ll never run out of safe-to-use swaddles for your infant.

Best of Infant Sleep Garments for Multiples: Ollie Swaddle

The Ollie Swaddle features super soft moisture-wicking fabric that will be gentle against your baby’s skin. The custom hook and loop closure will ensure that your baby won’t break open the swaddle and wake themselves (or each other) up. The stretch fabric ensures that you can get a snug yet loose fit to ensure proper hip development. There is only one size ever needed with the Ollie Swaddle so you don’t have to worry about mixing up sizes or buying more and the flexible 2-way design allows you to safely transition baby from arms-in to arms –out. They are so beloved you must grab them when they’re in stock!

Best of Infant Sleep Garments for Longest-Lasting: Kyte BABY Sleep Bag Swaddler

Kyte BABY has often been our go-to for cozy, eco-friendly pjs and onesies, but their sleep garments have pushed us into total fandom! Their Sleep Bag Swaddler is new to the game, allowing you to safely swaddle your little one in their high-quality bamboo fabric from day 1. The adjustable swaddle gives your little one the perfect fit every time, even as they grow. The best part – once you’re done swaddling, remove the swaddle band and you’re left with a sleep bag perfect for your little one to continue using!

Best of Organic Crib Mattresses: Gugu Picks

Best of Standard Crib Mattresses: Gugu Picks

Best Swaddle Blankets to Check Out

Books and Bedtime for Baby

by Jenna Hatfield Leave a Comment

You’ve spent the day engaging your little one in play, feeding him, and attending to his needs. Now it’s time to wind down and get ready for bed. Creating a routine with a bath, a comfy sleeper and reading provides you both with lasting memories and soothing moments. But where to start?

We’ve got you covered with a list of books and some other great sleep routine options.

Bedtime Books for Baby

Workman Publishing – Bedtime Board Books Set by Sandra Boynton – $23.85

No bedtime books for babies list would be complete without at least one pick from Sandra Boynton. Why not three? Dinosnores, Jungle Night, and Pajama Time will delight your little one for years to come. As your baby becomes a toddler, you can sing, “Jama, jama, jama, PJ,” as they work on dressing themselves in their pajamas. For now, you can create a soothing but fun routine that will help lull your little one to sleep. You may also want to grab our other three-pack of Boynton books solely for Snuggle Puppy, because what says bedtime more than snuggling?

Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown – $14.99

Goodnight Moon is a children’s classic for a reason: Children and parents alike have loved it for years. The rhythm of the words combined with the illustrations will soothe your baby. The book also grows with your little one as you can ask them to say goodnight to things in their room. You can start that with them as babies by pointing out things after you read the book together. It will become a beloved routine for years to come.

The Goodnight Train by June Sobel and Laura Huliska-Beith – $7.99

The Goodnight Train features illustrations and beautiful word imagery that will please both you and baby. You could look at all of the artwork on each page for endless hours. Your little one will enjoy the words and sounds as you create your own rock-a, rock-a rhythm.

Goodnight, I Love You by Caroline Jayne Church – $7.99

Goodnight, I Love You falls on the shorter side of bedtime storybooks—which you sometimes need! Maybe your little one is five seconds from falling asleep, but you don’t want to fall out of your beloved routine. Maybe you have some work to get done after bedtime. Whatever the case, this short book about bedtime routines and love fits in as a last read in a longer routine or a quick pre-nap read. Either way, you’ll both love it.

Llama Llama Nighty-Night by Anna Dewdney – $7.99

Last but not least, Llama Llama Nighty-Night might be the perfect introduction into the world of Llama Llama for your little llama. It focuses on bedtime routine offering a great way to teach your little listener about the steps to get ready for bed. Add in a stuffed llama from Melange Collection and you’ll be sending yours off to dreamland with ease.

Bedtime Routine Helpers

Earth Mama Organics Calming Lavender Baby Lotion ($18.99) and Body Wash ($9.99)

If you’re using an evening bath as part of your baby’s routine, you’ll want to check out Earth Mama Organics. Lather and massage the Calming Lavender Castile Baby Wash into their skin during bath time. After bath, use the Calming Lavender Baby Lotion to relax your little one, adding in some Baby Face nose & cheek balm for any dry skin spots. Your baby will associate these steps with relaxation and winding down for the night. Then you can get dressed in something comfy (that’s next!), read, and head to bed with ease.

Love to Dream Swaddle UP – $29.95

As for bedtime clothing that’s comfortable for baby, you’ll want to get a Love to Dream Swaddle UP. This is not a typical, conventional swaddle. It does not keep baby’s arms down along the side or crossed over the chest, as with traditional swaddling. Instead, it has “wings”, allowing baby to sleep in a more natural Arms UP position. The snug fit and Arms UP positioning help relax baby’s startle reflex, and encourages babies to self-soothe by giving them this access to their hands. Self-soothing means more sleep.

Mookabee Baby Swaddle Bundle – $52.99

Some babies might prefer a slightly more fitted swaddle. Go with the Mookabee Baby Swaddle if that’s the case. It will keep your little one snug and secure while also offering zippered access for night time diaper changes. That’s a game changer!

When you read these baby bedtime books and employ a routine with your little one, you should both enjoy your evening time together.

Check out more bedtime posts:
JPMA Baby Safety Tips: Safe Sleep Basics
Nanit Pro Baby Monitor Video Review
The Importance of Mom’s Sleep

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

Love to Dream™ Swaddle UP

by Christine Swearingen Leave a Comment

The Love to Dream Swaddle UP is not a typical, conventional swaddle. It does not keep baby’s arms down along the side or crossed over the chest, as with traditional swaddling. Instead, it has “wings”, allowing baby to sleep in a more natural Arms UP position. The snug fit and Arms UP positioning help relax baby’s startle reflex, and encourages babies to self-soothe by giving them this access to their hands. Self-soothing means more sleep.

Old Concept, New Twist

The Love to Dream Sleep System begins with the Swaddle UP. The three-stage program is designed to make babies and toddlers feel calmer and sleep soundly during naps as well as at night.

Babies like the coziness of being swaddled, and the Swaddle UP is a new take on traditional swaddle blankets. The ground-breaking design encourages babies to suck on their little hands or rub their noses, while sleeping in a more natural position with their arms UP, feeling relaxed and comforted.

Naturally Temperature-Regulating

Love to Dream sleeping garments are assigned a TOG ranking based on the amount of warmth they offer. To put it simply, the higher the TOG, the warmer the material. The Love To Dream Original, Stage 1 swaddle has 1.0 TOG fabric, suitable for moderate temperatures and room temperatures ranging from 68°F to 75°F. It has one single layer of fabric, reducing the risk of overheating! If baby sleeps warm, Love to Dream also offers a Lite 0.2 TOG version

Patented Wings

The revolutionary design with patented wings enables babies to sleep more comfortably, with their ARMS UP™. When babies are first born, they often break out of traditional blanket swaddles, because they are used to having their hands by their face in the womb and don’t like their arms stuck down by their sides. Medical evidence has found that when infants are able to self-soothe, they sleep for longer periods of time. The Swaddle UP™ is designed to be used from day one and will assist parents in laying a solid basis for sleep from birth.

Twin Zipper for Easy Diaper Changes

When baby needs a diaper change, the swaddle’s twin zipper feature, one on the top and one on the bottom, will minimize the disruption and allow you to quickly change baby’s diaper with ease. The zipper on the bottom is particularly useful for night-time diaper changes. You can change baby without having to fully remove the sleepsuit by unzipping the twin zipper from the bottom.

Safety

Swaddle UP is certified ‘hip-healthy’ by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute. The swaddle allows the full range of recommended flexion for hips & legs, allowing for proper hip development while keeping baby safe and comfortable.

Love to Dream is proud to be working with First Candle as Safe Sleep Guardians, helping the organization raise awareness around Safe Sleep for Babies, decreasing the number of SIDS and other sleep related deaths. We all know that babies shouldn’t sleep with loose sheets or blankets, but in a “naked crib”. The Swaddle UP is safer for your baby because it replaces the traditional swaddle that may come loose or unravel during sleep, causing a hazard. The swaddle is also easy to use, and is much quicker than folding a baby in a traditional swaddle. Yet, it still provides the comfort, snug feeling that babies like. This helps the baby sleep better, which means more sleep for parents too!

When baby begins to roll, Love to Dream offers multiple stages as baby grows to help ensure safety, while still sleeping soundly. This means more sleep for parents…and we’ll take that any day of the week!

Thank you to Love to Dream for making this sponsored post possible.

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