Mama Speaks

Attachment Parenting International

the cause: Attachment Parenting International (API)

the purpose: API’s mission is to educate and support all parents in raising secure, joyful and empathic children in order to strengthen families and create a more compassionate world.

the resources: Parent Education Program, Attachement Parenting Forum, Podcasts and Webinars. Plus a new book, coming soon!

support: API is a non-profit organization. Your purchase or donation allows them to provide their amazing network of support and resources.

Rock-n-Tot

Partyin’ Like It’s Your Birthday (without the birthday) 

My husband and I recently hit up one of the coolest DC nightclubs.  It was like old times, we couldn’t resist the rump-shakin’ beats being spun by the DJ, we got down on the floor, and when our not-like-they-used-to-be bodies couldn’t handle anymore, we chilled out with a cool beverage and bar food.  Only once did we need to leave the dance floor to change a diaper.  That’s right, we brought our toddler, we always said you’re never too young to hit the club scene, right?  Apparently we’re not the only ones who think so as we were joined with at least 100 other beaming tykes and their parents at the Rock-n-Tot event in Washington, DC.

The brain child of mothers Liz Weirshousky and Naomi Hattaway, Rock-n-Tot [$15 per person, non-walkers free] takes over 4 levels of the hottest clubs bringing life to an otherwise ordinary Saturday afternoon.  The events run from 2pm-5pm, working around our nap schedule perfectly.  We experienced one level of dancing to parent and kid friendly music.  These aren’t kid tunes that were spinning but that didn’t stop the under 4 foot set from getting down. (They just didn’t get the same nostalgic feeling when Billy Jean came on and we didn’t have to worry about bleeping out any four letter words.) Kids can freestyle or choose one of the props like hoola hoops or shakers to get them going.  Below us was a quiet and clean place to change diapers and a room just for crawlers that may need to seek safety from thrashing kids. Above us was an entire level of complimentary spa treatments for the entire family from facials, manicures and mini-massages for parents and airbrush tattoos and face painting for the kids.  The top level provided a place for everyone to chill with books, interactive story time and tents. Best of all, each level was stocked with complimentary juices, fruit and other easy to grab and dance snacks.  You’ll also get your chance at winning some great prizes from their growing list of sponsors.

Rock-n-Tot is quickly becoming one of the most sought after events.  We witnessed defeated parents trying to guilt their way into the sold out event so we recommend buying your tickets in advance online and not risking the limited quantities available at the door.  But Rock-n-Tot isn’t just for those Capital City residence (or those willing to drive the much worth it 1 hour+ like us). Midwesterners within the Cleveland vicinity can get their groove on as well, just check the event schedule for both locations.  And maybe if we all throw a tantrum, maybe we can convince Liz and Naomi the rest of the country needs their own Rock-n-Tot locations as well.  Because this is just too cool to keep for ourselves.

Win it!
We're giving away 2 pairs of tickets for Rock-n-N Tot April and 2 pairs of tickets for Rock-n-Tot May. To enter send an email to giveaways[at]mamaspeaks.com with Rock Out as your subject. Please note that tickets are for the Washington DC events only.

-Cara

 

Okkies

‘Dokey!

        

They’re playful but not too cute. Practical but not cheap. And fun without the standard annoying “licensed character.” Okkies tops & bottoms are what Mama likes to buy and what kids like to wear.I hate spending too much money on hip tees or pants that I then end up not letting my guys even wear very often because I’m afraid they’ll be a kid- gasp!- and get dirty! Or wear out their pricey duds. What else are clothes good for?

 

Okkies’ quality and style makes sense with their mid-range prices. Tees like the Brown Frog Tee [$34] are simple but oh so gentle on the skin, 100% cotton, and are just made to be worn. Camo Cargo Pants [$48] by Okkies are ready for the all terrain of spring and summer playground fun, but you still get to dress them cute.

   

The softness, comfort, accurate sizing, and the fact that their products are wear & wash and wash & wear… that’s what clothes for little kids should be about, right?

-Steph

A Passion for Pollock

the site: JacksonPollock.org

the fun: Enter the url and you're there. Move your mouse around and create your own masterpiece reminiscent of the master. (I mean, your kids can create their own masterpiece) It is seriously addictive.

the tips: Just move your mouse around to create your lines (faster = thinner, slower= thicker). Left click to change colors. Space bar to delete.

Marmalade Ink

Something To Write Home About 

The personalized greetings by Marmalade Ink are not the usual cutesy variety that you see available online these days. No frills and fluff or generic colors here- these vibrant cards and invitations stand out above the rest and express your style with style.
   

For certain there is a birth announcement to fit your growing family. Your special arrival deserves the royal treatment with the Brandon Michael announcement [$57 for a set of 25] and Adoption announcements like the beautiful GraceAnne gracefully let the whole world know about your new addition. Send the classiest Holiday cards this year that will surely be on display by all your acquaintances. And next birthday, personalize a rockin’ invitation like the Jeremy James [$50 for 25].

 

We were most excited by the Kids Lined Stationery Pads [$32]. Oh, it is so hard it is to find lined paper! Not to mention paper this cool and personalized with your child’s photo and name. My Noah couldn’t wait to write his grandparents a letter and will also be composing a “What I Did Over Spring Break” note to his teacher this week! His eyes were so wide with excitement when he saw this electric guitar notepad of his very own. What a fabulous gift idea for any young writer.

It’s not all about the kids; Marmalade Ink has Something for Mom, too. Take time to send a creative note of your own. Express who you are and encourage the whole family to recapture the lost art of letter writing and sending through the post. There’s nothing like getting a real live letter in the mail.

Want it?
Enter mamaspeaks1 for 10% off all orders. Expires 04.28.08

Win it!
We're giving away a Kids Lined Stationary Pad for one lucky winner! To enter, send an email to giveaways[at]mamaspeaks.com with Marmalade as your subject and let us know which design is your favorite. Giveaway ends March 31, 2008.

-Steph

Innies & Outies

Not Just For Belly Buttons

Having three kids has taught me all too well how to prepare for disasters. I always make sure there's an extra outfit in the diaper bag for each kid. You never know when they are going to fall in the mud, spill something on themselves, or have a potty accident, and you can never be too prepared.

Innies & Outies has solved all those problems. I was just handed the cutest dress [$59.50], not only is it really cute, and totally girly (which I love!), it's reversible. Did you hear me? Reversible! There's no need for that extra outfit taking up space in your already stuffed diaper bag. Innies and Outies clothing is wonderful for traveling and packing lightly.

Perfect for those little accidents the kids may have when you're in a hurry. Just turn it inside out and go! It's that simple. You don't even have to look for different shoes, because both sides compliment each other. With all of their sweet solids and pretty prints you have tons of options to choose from for your little guy or girl. I am going to make my wish list right now, and I'm thinking they make awesome gifts too!

Want it?
Enter SPEAKS30 in the comments section at checkout for 30% off your total purchase.

-Jaymi

Baby Bisou

Love At First Sight

Many babywearers can’t help but swoon over gorgeous baby carrier fabrics and designs. It’s our thing. It’s why we have more than one (or three or four) ring slings and mei tais and wraps and so on. When I first laid eyes on the beautiful modern mei tais by Baby Bisou, I wanted to marry them. They are that pretty.

            

Instantly I had to have the Avery [$125], and I wanted to design my whole living room around it with matching cushions on my couch. And even though I don’t really wear pink, I was trying to justify the Plum Blossom or Botanical Garden [each $125] by thinking that would remedy the absence of blush tones in my wardrobe. You do have the option to go plain-jane (although with these prints I don’t know why anyone ever would), but the Simple Black [$119] might be more likely worn by Daddies versus the Honey Sparrow [$125].

But enough about the loveliness of these carriers. Baby Bisou’s structure and style is functional and sturdy without any unneeded extras. It’s not heavy or bulky and, because I tend to be more a fan of straps and ties than buckles, I wasn’t sure what I’d think of the comfort with Baby Bisou. I found it super-easy to put on and get my child secure- recommended for babies aged 3 months to 40 lbs. It is very quick and convenient to use the buckle clasps as well as adjust the shoulder straps and waist before and after baby is on, too. The wide waist band gives an excellent support that I don’t have with my strappy non-buckled mei tai. Ladies will also appreciate the positioning of the buckles and straps, as it doesn’t seem to accentuate our, ahem, extra rolls and curves as some carriers can do!

I love a good Asian carrier for the back carry, and this one feels and looks good. Baby Bisou isn’t oversized, so I am really looking forward to carrying a smaller babe on front as well. I love the way Baby Bisou imitates the traditional mei tai in every way, but instead it just has buckles. It doesn’t look “commercial” or plastic or manufactured like I’ve seen with other soft structured carriers. This is the real deal with a bonus of delicious patterns and colors you’ll just want to wrap yourself (oh, and baby) up in!

Want it?
Baby Bisou is offering free shipping on all carriers through the end of March.

Win it!
We 're giving away a Baby Bisou carrier of winners choice! To enter, email giveaways@mamaspeaks.com with Baby B as your subject. Let us know which carrier is your fav. Giveaway ends March 26, 2008.

   

-Steph

The Gifted Grasshopper

Bagging the Bookworm

Some might say "booooring", but I'm a firm believer that books make the best gifts. I'd say for anyone, but most definitely for the kid's. But big bookstores can be a bit daunting, especially if you're shopping outside of your own offspring's interests or age range. Ever showed up to a princess party with a book about a tom-boy? Don't worry, I've endured the wrath for us all.

Thanks to The Gifted Grasshopper we all have a little more help. Leave it to a pair of teachers turned moms to wise up and create a simple way to gift great books. The Gifted Grasshopper is a one stop shop for the perfect reads for babies up to third graders. Shop by age to find a hand picked selection of wonderful themed books that are sure to delight any kid. Best of all you can choose just a couple books or a bursting bag [$25-$75], and all will come tucked inside a sturdy signature tote with a bookmark, grasshopper glasses and a plush Griffen the Grasshopper. They even have a special tote full of selections from our fav, Barefoot Books.

You aren't able to choose the actual titles, but that's what makes us love it even more. In addition to a little less stress, we love the element of surprise.

Want it?
Enter Speaks10 for 10% off any order of $29.99 or more.

Win it!
Sign up for The Gifted Grasshoppers mailing list for your chance to win a bag bursting with books valued at $49.99

Cause of the Week - ASPCA

the cause: The ASPCA (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty of Animals)

the problem: Hundreds of thousands of animals are abuse, neglected and abandoned on a daily basis in the United Stated of America. The ASPCA is here to make a difference in every animal’s life.  Join the ASPCA today; we are their voice.

the purpose: The ASPCA was founded in 1866 as the first humane organization in the Western Hemisphere. The Society was formed to alleviate the injustices animals faced then, and they continue to battle cruelty today. Whether it’s saving a pet who has been accidentally poisoned, fighting to pass humane laws, rescuing animals from abuse or sharing resources with shelters across the country, the ASPCA works toward the day in which no animal will live in pain or fear.

give/shop: You can become a member of the ASPCA with a monthly and/or yearly donation.  You can also give by shopping in the ASPCA online store.

Blue Poppy

Baby Blues

Often times it's hard to capture the sweet, perfect innocence of our babies, be it in photos, writing or other works of art.  Finding the right way to show off their magic can be a challenge, and I know that I look for little ways for my boys and my niece to express their own special "it" factor whenever I can.  We at Mama Speaks have scored once again, and our family has adopted the most gorgeous piece of jewelry you will ever see on a baby's tiny wrist. 

At Blue Poppy, the baby bird bracelet [$64] is unmatched by any of the other baby jewelry I've seen.  Made of sterling silver, these tiny bracelets are adjustable, and have a small space for engraving whatever little details strike your fancy.  Created with a tiny bird on a branch, the symbol is the perfect understated elegance that can be handed down the generations.  Not to be left out, mamas can also get the baby bird bracelet in adult sizes, as well as strut their stuff in any of Blue Poppy's other modern and slick designs.  If you are looking for that special heirloom piece, or just the perfect "wear with everything" item, definitely make Blue Poppy your first stop.

-Arianne