Canada Issue 603

Where the Wild Things Are

Unique Children’s Products

For the mom who has everything (or just likes the unusual), we’ve discovered some whimsical, somewhat wacky, and even a little bit ‘wild’ finds. We’re not saying you need them, but they are fun to know about.  So for some midsummer amusement, get ready to start that head shaking.

For any child who has out-cuddled their T-Rex or teddy bear, it may be time to look into an Incredibed. Described as “loveable, large stuffed-animal beds for kids”, we have to admit that from a child’s point of view, they are pretty incredible. You supply the box spring and mattress, and they supply the giant, soft stuffed-animal frame that goes around it. These beds just might earn some extra cuddle points for mom. As to interior design points…you be the judge.

le knockoutGold teeth aren’t exactly in the Vogue style guide, but gold is hot right now and Kim Kovel has been busy plating children’s teeth (yes, after they have fallen out) into gold and platinum necklace charms for moms throughout North America (and beyond) through her company le knockout. When your average keepsake, picture, or framed handprint won’t do, consider the permanence of a platinum incisor. Great for the jewellery-loving mom who has everything, especially if all she’s ever wanted “is her two front teeth”.

Zaky Infant PillowParents with babies who insist on being continuously held will appreciate the idea (if not the neighbours’ curious glances) of the Zaky Infant Pillow. Used in some hospitals for preemies, these stuffed, hand-shaped ergonomic pillows are now available in stores and are said to help any mom who needs to step away without upsetting the baby. Although you have left the room, the infant feels that loving touch. We thought these might just come in “handy”! 

Head SnugglerNo matter how limber yoga can make a person, the human body rarely proves more flexible than when you see when a child is asleep in a car seat with neck at a 90 degree angle. If the sight of this stresses you, the Head Snuggler might do the trick. It is an elasticized ‘head-restraint’ that slips over the back of the car seat and over the forehead of the child, thereby keeping the head propped ‘comfortably’ upright. At least having one might make you more comfortable when you look at that neck.

DaddleIt’s hard to improve upon an original, but the Daddle professes to do just that. A fabric saddle, complete with stirrups, straps on Dad’s back and makes ‘horsey rides’ even more authentic—promising hours of playtime while Mom gets a break to go shopping (sorry…wishful thinking on that part). If your little one has fantasies of being a future equestrian or simply loves to engage in make-believe play, the Daddle may invite some extra-special horsing around time with Dad.

So if you’ve ever asked yourself “What will they think of next?”, you have an answer…for now.

How to Find

Incredibeds
www.incredibeds.com

le knockout
www.leknockout.com

Zaky Infant Pillow
www.zakeez.com

Head Snuggler
www.melrosekids.com

Daddle
www.mamabebe.com

Tested by Alison R., Toronto
Tagged under kids, baby, sleep, jewellery

You might also like:

Our 5 Fave Toys
Toys for All Ages

First published 2010.08.03