The legendary NYC mother’s group, Bowery Babes, boasts 800+ members so it’s no wonder they have a rep for hosting the best playgroups in the city.  They shared some of their favorite tips for hosting successful playgroups with Stroller Traffic and we wanted to pass along this helpful article with our readers as well.  Click below to read the entire article!

Living in Los Angeles (aka Earthquake Country), we all know earthquakes come with the territory. We’ve become somewhat used to the random small tremblers and know that the “Big One” is coming. While getting prepared, don’t forget to include the kids! By including children in family discussions and planning for emergency safety, you can help calm some of their fears. Also, when putting together your Earthquake Preparedness Kit, be sure to include a family picture, your child’s favorite toy, game or book and a few of your child’s favorite comfort foods and treats. For more information on how to get your kids involved and prepared, visit www.72hours.org, a great disaster preparedness site put together by the County of San Francisco.

Top 5 reasons to wear your baby:

1| Babies worn in slings are happier. A report in Pediatrics states that babywearing reduces crying and fussiness up to 43% during the day and 57% at night. Babies who are carried cry less, smile more, spit up less, have less colic and bond better. That means you will be happier!

2| Babies who are carried learn more — that means your baby will be smarter! Babies who are worn are more frequently in the quiet alert state, which is optimal for learning.

3| Babywearing helps you and your baby communicate better. You become more sensitive to your baby’s needs and cues.

4| Wearing your baby is convenient — you don’t have to worry about narrow aisles, stairs or crowds, and it isn’t heavy or awkward like car seat carriers. Slinging also lulls baby to sleep.

5| Babywearing liberates your arms so that you can get things done, like work or care for older siblings, while bonding with and soothing your baby.

There it is…5 great reasons to pick up a Rockin’ Baby Sling or Pouch.
Click the link below to see our great selection!

Parents Magazine has put together a handy list of the 20 Biggest Toy Recalls of 2007.  Unfortunately, our little friends Dora the Explorer and Barbie, and our favorite childhood toy, the Easy-Bake Oven, may pose some safety hazards to kids.  Should you spot a recalled toy, get rid of it immediately and contact the manufacturer to see if they are offering a rebate.  Click below for the entire list and rid the toy box of any of these dangerous toys.