Ga-Ga Goodies

Best In Bath Toys

2009-06-17T17:55:21Z

Christine Coppa rounds up the best in bath toys.

By Christine Coppa

Sometimes I have to lure my son out of the tub with a train or cracker--that's how much my kid loves to bathe. And it's no wonder! Have you seen how cool bath toys are these days? What's in our tub? After the jump I reveal what my son loves to splish splash with.

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Disco In The Tub: Turn your kid's bath into an underwater disco. Sea-shaped lights glow and blink while floating in bath water or suctioning to the tile. The light shuts off automatically after 100 seconds and easily pops back on when your little one works his small motor skills and squeezes the toy. $16.95, Amazon.com

Ducks In The Tub: Four toys in one--Score! The blue mama duck nestles three removable baby ducks (pink, yellow and green) under her wing. The translucent material glows and reflects many stimulating colors that encourage eye/hand coordination and turn bath time into learning time when you point out the colors to your child. $14.99, Target.com

Crayons In The Tub: Bring color, fun and creativity into the tub with Crayola bath time crayons. Practice writing letters and drawing circles on the tile. Go on, make a mess, these crayons wash off with bath water and a wash cloth. Bath time just got more exciting! $5.99, Crayolastore.com

Night, Night, Night Lights

2009-06-16T16:06:48Z

Here are some cute ways to make the nights brighter

By Christine Coppa

Are your kids afraid of the dark? Are you? After the jump I share some adorable night lights that promise sweet dreams.

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Cocalo: This baby blue and yellow elephant plugs into a standard outlet and provides a soft glow giving off just enough light to make your little one feel secure as he drifts off to sleep. On and off switch means this gem doubles as wall decor during the day, so no need to unplug. $13.99, amazon.com

Circo: This contemporary chick won't keep you up with tweeting, but the dim, amber light will add comforting ambiance to your child's room, or serve as an illuminating conversation piece on a hallway table or bathroom vanity. $12.99, Target.

Uses a rechargeable battery.

Oopsy Daisy: Have a little princess under your roof? Accessorize her room with this on/off switch pink and chocolate stamped tiara night light. Stretched canvas adds just a kiss of light, while the silvery crown provides an upbeat, girly-girly charm to a dark or lit room. $24.99, Rosenberryrooms.com

SPF Fortified Lip Glosses For Summer

2009-06-07T16:53:27Z

Keep your lips cool when summer gets hot

By Christine Coppa

Hooray for summer! And summer makeup. I hate to goop on cosmetics regardless, but in the summertime, I literally swipe on bronzer, mascara and gloss and hit the road. After the jump I share my favorite SPF fortified (because summer sunshine rays are hot, hot, hot) lip glosses. So pucker up...

]]> e.l.f: Mmm, mmm, good! This watermelon lip gloss is kissable and powered with SPF 15. Long-lasting, never sticky and glimmering, this hypoallergenic gloss puts a big smile on my sun-kissed face. Steal Alert: Only a $1.49 (woo-who!), drugstore.com

the Balm: Enriched with jojoba, the Balm instantly soothes and softens lips--and SPF 17 protects your pout from harmful rays. Made with beeswax, you're guarunteed a non-sticky, ultra shiny formula providing long-wear so there is no need to reapply. Perfect for a busy day at the playground or beach with your tot. $19.00 Beauty.com

fresh: It tastes like lemon ice--enough said! This tart and sweet lip treatment blends essential oils, waxes and real sugarcane for maximum moisture and subtle, natural shine--plus the added benefit of SPF 15. Bonus: It's also infused with vitamins A, C and E. $22.50 (stick lasts forever--I've had mine for two years!), Sephora.com

Smart Sippy Cups

2009-05-31T02:54:22Z

Christine rounds up three of her faves.

By Christine Coppa

My son started drinking from a sippy cup at 12-months-old and what a treat! Have you seen how cool sippy cups are these days? After the jump I share my three faves.
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Munchkin Mighty Grip: This 8 oz. trainer cup comes complete with duel-sided handles for little hands and a contoured no-slip cup. The silicone spout is soft like a nipple ensuring an easy transition from bottle to cup. Bonus: Built-in valve prevents spills. $4.49, Babyrant.com

Luv n' Care Gripper: This 10 oz. textured cup helps baby get a real hold on things. BPA-free and a no-drip system because the pressure spout closes up when sucking ceases--I'm sold. Even better--it's available in bright rainbow-assorted colors. $2.29, Amazon.com

Playtex Straw Sipper: This 10 oz. cup is a real gem. Here's why: It's designed to allow your toddler to color on it or apply stickers on the actual cup since it comes with five coloring templets and blank paper to jazz it up. Cool! Even add your photo to help comfort your child when he's at daycare. $4.69, Drugstore.com

*All cups are dishwasher safe. Phew!

Best in Baby Blankets

2009-05-26T16:47:00Z

Some soft and fun blankets that kids will love to hold close

By Christine Coppa

My son, who turns two in August, is a blankie boy. He carries his blue blanket around so much I can hardly find the time to wash it. Does your child have a favorite blanket? Are you looking for a cute present for an upcoming baby shower? After the jump I share my top three blanket must-haves.

]]> Plush pet: A pillow and a blanket in one, this cozy crocodile is a soft friend for your child to cuddle up to and a warm blanket to nap under. Simply fold the blanket into a square and stuff it in the crocodile's tummy, then zip. It makes for an ideal travel blanket and a cool shower gift for a mommy-to-be or a thoughtful surprise for a new big brother or sister. Check out all of the cushy animals to choose from at Zoobies.com, $34.

The original: Everyone knows Charlie Brown's buddy never leaves home without his favorite blankie. Now your child doesn't have to either. This supersoft, satin-trimmed signature blanket comes complete with a trademark Linus patch. And guess what? Linus is giving back and you can too: Partial proceeds benefit Project Linus--an organization that provides kids in need with a handmade afghan. UrbanOutfitters.com, $14.99.

Buddy blanket: Ultra-plush velour fabric comes complete with a squishy elephant head for your child to play or lay with! Blue, lavender and yellow and designed with stars and stripes, this blanket is gender-neutral and the perfect addition to any nursery. SuperPlushandStuff.com,$25.

*All of the blankets are machine-washable.

It's Potty Time!

2009-05-17T17:49:50Z

Christine finds some too-cute-to-pee-in potties.

By Christine Coppa

My son JD is 21-months-old and he all of a sudden refuses to have his diaper changed--REFUSES. It's like World War III on the changing table. I was so paranoid I actually took him to the pediatrician because I thought maybe he had invisible diaper rash that was stinging him or some other kind of not-detectable-to-the-naked-eye infection. The doctor laughed and said: "Potty-training time." Gulp! Some too cute to pee in potties after the jump (but Dear Lord, let's hope JD pees in one!)

]]> Slam Dunk Potty: JD is obsessed with balls so I got him a potty that looks like a ball. He hasn't exactly peed or pooped in it yet, but he thinks it's "Coo-wool!" (Cool) and often throws his Legos in it. We'll get there, JD, honey. Adjustable handles and a cushy, contoured seat provides a soft, secure landing pad for little butts. Bright, sporty graphics are alluring and fun, making this bowl a literal ball to use! No-gap design helps prevent leaks and icky germ build-up, too. JD and I say, Game on! $29.99, Target.com

Froggy Potty: Engage your toddler with this little green friend during the training process. The seat is soft and stable ensuring toddlers can pop on and off like the big boys and girls they are. The removable bucket and splash guard means no messy messes providing quick, accessible cleanup and there is even a handle which makes this potty easy to tote along, say on a long car ride or to the park. It's froggy fun and functional! $14.99, Toys R' Us.

Singing Potty: A cheerful, smily face lures little ones to this potty. Realistically designed to look like mommy and daddy's potty, your little one will want to follow your lead. It includes a retractable toilet paper holder (love it!), five rewarding phrases and two adorable sing-along songs. Bonus: There's a guard for little boys ensuring no tinkle sprinkles. $31.99, Amazon.com

Flip Flop Finds

2009-05-10T17:45:29Z

Perfect for a walk in the park...or the beach.

By Christine Coppa

JD and I are back from my Rattled! reading and signing that took place out in sunny California. Read about our adventures on the West Coast at my Glamour.com blog Storked! here. A week later we're still on California dreaming time--and style. Adorable wee flip flops for the tiny tootsies in your life after the jump!

]]> Cool Skulls: Rock on and out in these bad-to-the bone flops. The soft sole comforts baby's foot, while the nylon upper keeps the ankle secure with its adjustable strap. Bonus: Rubber bottom prevents, whoops, toddler slips (know em well!). $22, RockBabyApparel.com (Yes, ladies, they come in pink too. Click here.)

Glitzy Glam: Toddler in platforms--look out. These sparkle stunners are a must-have for your baby fashionista. The smooth footbed and midsole provide comfort and support, while the glitter upper screams, I'm here! All eyes will be on your baby's toes in these head-turner Roxy flops. $29.95, Zappos.com

Sock It To Me: A sock and a flop in one? Genius. This little number hugs baby's foot and ankle with a snug stretchy material ensuring these flops stay put on the foot! Cute, comfy and functional--I want a pair for myself! Buy now and get 10 bucks off the original price of $39.99, Topsiesonline.com

Bite-size Havaianas: My go-to flop comes in JD's size. Score. Young and spirited, this classic flop offers comfort with its trademark buttery soft sole and stylish support with it's silky-smooth strap. Available in green, pink and blue these sandals are sure to steal the show this summer. $17.99, ShopFlipFlops.com

Lady in Red: Every gal needs at least one pair of red shoes. And I love these bold candy apple-colored flops with their twisty-twirly straps and circle chain-link design. Wear em on the beach with a swimsuit or pair em with a cute summer frock--either or your little lady, will be the lady in red. Steal Alert: Only $7, Walmart.com

Best In Beach Toys

2009-04-28T17:33:04Z

By Christine Coppa

My son JD and I are in sunny California for my west coast Rattled! reading and signing. Book aside, let's hit the beach, JD! My son's favorite beach toys after the jump.

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Have a wet n' wild ball: My son is obsessed with balls. In fact, he recently threw an orange at me he retrieved from the fruit bowl and said, "Ba-wall, mama!" So I needed a cool, literally cool ball, to entertain him at the beach. The pool football fits the bill. Dunk the ball in pool or ocean water and throw. Water spits out from all angles keeping your toddler cool and entertained. $10.99, Toysplash.com

Soup-to-nuts sand set: A public beach or sandbox can never have enough buckets and shovels and rakes. Why? Because everyone shares everything--at least when you're a toddler. That's why I love this complete set of sand toys that comes with things like a watering can, fun molders, big buckets, shovels and more! And I really love the bag it comes with. Who wants to tote around (or, ahem, lose) a million toys? Not me! $14.48, Amazon.com

Wheely cool sand wheel: Have your toddler work his small motor skills by pouring sand or water into the colorful spout, then watch in amazement as the wheels spin-spin-spin and spit it out in all directions casting cool lines and designs in the air, on the ground--and everywhere! $9.95, GrowingTreeToys.com

Mother's Day Gift Guide

2009-04-27T17:11:48Z

Mother's Day is around the corner and if you're stumped as to what to get a special mommy in your life, don't fret! After the jump, three must-have gifts any mom will love.

By Christine Coppa

]]> Pamper Me: Don't kid yourself--an expensive spa day isn't your only ticket to a tired mom's heart. Check out all of the beauty products at Jurlique.com I'm a huge fan of Lavender Hydrating Mist. It's like giving your skin a big drink of water and the subtle, calming lavender can transform a hectic mom moment (like cleaning out a car seat or trying to find a sneaker) into a tranquil, take a deep breath (deeper) moment. Jurlique.com is offering WEtv.com readers an exclusive 15% off. Use the code wetv15 at checkout.

Tea Party: Tea or flowers? Tea or flowers? Both! Buy mom hand-made flowering teas. Available in green, white and oolong--these teas will warm the heart and taste buds with a before-your-eyes flowering bloom and soothing flavor and aroma. It's two gifts in one! $3.99, Englishteastore.com

Happy Hour: A set of beautifully hand-painted wine goblets and a bottle of mom's favorite is a choice gift that literally tells mom it's perfectly fine to kick up those heels (well take em off!) and a enjoy a slow drink on the porch with a girlfriend or heck, in quiet solitude. (Yes, please!) Starting at $23.49, Gotmartini.com

Check out Frewines to pair the glasses with a non-alcoholic option.

Get Rattled!

2009-04-20T17:30:26Z

Christine finds three must-have rattles.

By Christine Coppa

My new memoir Rattled! came out last week. Order your copy here. In honor of my book I've found three must have rattles, of course. My picks after the jump.

]]> Wild Wood: This hand-crafted, organically sculpted, for a smooth baby soft finish rattle is chic and eco-friendly. Measuring in at 3" in diameter it's the perfect size for a little grip, encouraging small motor skill development. The gentle clicking sound of the toy is both entertaining and soothing. $14.99, Amazon.com

Funky Flowers: Spring is in the air and so is this bouquet rattle. Durable and colorful, this flower-inspired rattle is both BPA and PVC free, which means baby can gum away! I love the different textures for baby to explore--the flowers are crafted in sateen, fleece and twill, while yellow and green wood rings clank and click with baby's movement. $11.95, Gatortots.com

Phone Home: Ring, ring! Baby will get it. This sassy phone rattle pops in hot colors and the black and white kaleidoscope design helps to develop eye muscles. The lightweight rattle is made of soft and hard rubbery textures that stimulate small motor skills and encourage grasping. $2.99, Toysrus.com

Book Giveaway!

2009-04-20T15:28:08Z

Hi Everyone!

My new book Rattled! about my journey from girl about town to single mom is on-sale now. The first five people to e-mail us will win a free copy!

Teething Tantrums Zapped!

2009-04-11T16:59:05Z

Teething rings that soothe and entertain.

By Christine Coppa

Baby cutting a new tooth? Oh no! Teething can be just as painful for mommy as it is for baby. No one wants to see their infant in oral agony, tears streaming down their apple-red cheeks. To the rescue: innovative teething rings that soothe and entertain, after the jump!

]]> Floating Friends Teether: Comforting, cute, durable and stimulating, this teether is made of soft, non-toxic plastic that squeezes and wiggles with baby's gummy bite. Doubles as a hand-toy because when baby grips the ring, bright animal friends dance and float within. $2.99, Toysrus.com

Bug Teether: JD loved this toy/teether in one. The cutout wing is the perfect size for a tiny grip, while the other water-filled wing freezes to comfort sore gums. I love that this teether is designed with various textures: bumpy, soft, hard, and smooth. Watch as baby's fingers explore the surfaces while chomping delightfully on the refreshing, icy wing. $7, Amazon.com

Fruity Toothy Teether: Sometimes when baby is in the middle of a teething tantrum a cold ring to bite down on may seem like a foreign (what the heck is this?) object. That's what I love about this pacifier teether option. Pop this raspberry binky in the freezer or run it under cold water and watch as baby returns to bliss with the multi-texture, hands-free pacifier and teether in one. $7.50, Walmart.com

Bite on this: I let JD chomp on a cold baby wash cloth and it really did the trick when he was cutting new teeth.

Piggy Banks That Make Me Squeal!

2009-04-06T18:06:05Z

Christine Coppa shares four piggy banks that will make you squeal.

By Christine Coppa

Money. Money. Money. Last thing I want to blog about, but I have a kid and I want to instill some basic values in him when it comes to the green stuff. Namely, it's fun to save money. Not only does the payoff equal say a new ball, but actually shooting coins into that little slit is a heck of a small motor skill workout! Plus, counting coins is a great way to teach numbers. All together: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5! After the jump my fav piggy bank picks.

]]> Personalized Piggy Bank: This charming ceramic pig comes in three different bubbly designs (balloons, stars, or flowers) and three soft colors (baby blue, petal pink and happy yellow). Have your child's name painted on and add an extra something sparkly and special by having Swarovski crystals applied. AllBaby.com, $27.95. Exclusive Offer: Get 10% off when you use the code WE10 at checkout.

Copper Coin Saver: This plump little piggy is the color of a penny and makes any room pop with its light-reflecting ceramic finish. The contemporary money holder measures 8.25 x 6.25 x 6.5 making it just the right size for all of your money, honey! $14.99, Target.com

Posh Pig: Save in style with this ready-for-the-runway piglet. Available in 5 chic designs (JD loves camo) this cool coin saver comes with an easy pop cork which means Baby doesn't have to break the bank! Bonus: Each bank comes with a coordinating keepsake box. $17, Giggle.com

Clear Cash Pig: Get your little ones excited about saving with this plump see-through piggy bank. Comes in three icy translucent colors (raspberry pink, bright blue and cool clear). It's cute and practical and will help teach your kids the value of a dollar because they will literally see those dollars adding up! (I want one for myself to be honest!) $5.99, The Container Store.

Toddler Art Must-Haves: Imagination Starts Now

2009-03-29T16:10:31Z

Tap into your toddler's creative side with these arty finds.

By Christine Coppa

My son JD, nineteen months, is a budding Picaso if I do say so myself. He loves to scribble, finger paint and arrange magnets on the fridge in twisty, chaotic ways that make my head cock in awe. Mom-approved, JD-tested, awesome art picks after the jump.

]]> Perfect Size Markers: JD loves to scribble with my highlighters but often has a hard time keeping the super-chubby pen is his pudgy, little hand. To the rescue: Crayola Pip Squeaks. They are a mini version of Crayola's classic marker and fit perfectly into his little paw. Bonus: Because they are (magic words) washable, they rinse 1-2-3 from hands, um face, um legs (what can I say, I have a CREATIVE toddler) and most clothes with warm water and gentle hand soap. $5.29, The Crayola Store.

Clay Factory Fun: Melissa & Doug Shape, Model and Mold comes with four cups of molding clay, five no-slip wooden stamping cubes, three "rolly-polly" rolling pins, four fun molds plus lids and a punchy patterned wheel press. JD and I often play with this in the kitchen. We make meatballs and skinny spaghetti noodles. Bon Appetit! $14.95, Amazon.com

"I told you these picks were JD-approved!"

Double Fun Double Sided Easel JD can't get enough of this art apparatus staple. Positioned in the corner of my office, I've been known to respond to urgent emails while he scribbles in chalk on the black top or with markers on the magnetic dry erase side (comes with a bag of ABC letters in bright, stimulating colors). Bonus: Also features a no-slip clip that holds drawing paper. For hours of imagination at your service I highly recommend the Imaginarium Easel, $34.99, Toys R' Us.

Suggestion: Need an art smock? Pick up a Baggino Learner's Bib.

Fresh-Faced Mommy: Drugstore Picks That Dazzle

2009-03-23T17:05:20Z

Four recession-proof products and a 60-second daily makeup routine.

By Christine Coppa

As a single mom to an 18-month old boy it's really hard to make myself up in the morning--period. I've pulled my jeans on with him on my hip and I've been known to slap on a face mask, then pop my kid in the tub for his twenty-minute bath. Voila--he's playing with boats and squirters--and my aqua-colored mask is soaking deep into my pores. But I can't always distract my toddler for purposes of looking pretty (presentable?). Up next, my 4 recession-proof products and my 60 second daily makeup routine.

]]> With just a hint of natural pink/nude color L'Oreal Colour Juice, Bubble gum perks up any pout with its sheer, wet finish, turning an up-all-night with my restless infant frown, upside down.

$8.29, Drugstore.com

A gentle swipe of light-reflecting and luminous CoverGirl TruBlend Natural Bronzer instantly brightens cheek bones and the slope of the nose for a healthy, sun-kissed glow. $7.29, Drugstore.com

Want a fool-proof way to make your sleepy eyes look alert, wide-awake and ready to face any baby conundrum the day might have in store? Grab a Q-Tip and line the lids with a semi-thick line of Iman Luxury Eyeshadow, White Gold. Next, paint a soft line just under your bottom lids. Finish by using your ring finger to swirl a bright circle in the inner and outer corners. Smile, bright eyes! $6.99, Drugstore.com

Finish the look and start the day with a quick spiritz of Jasmine Body Splash. The invigorating fragrance is proven to increase beta waves in the brain, which instantly improves energy levels and alertness. (I think I want to bathe in this!) $10.50, Bath & Body Works.