Aussie company, Belkiz, has come up with the perfect solution for your feeding quandries with the cardboard highchair, called the Belkiz Feedaway. Growing Your Baby calls it Eco Fabulous, noting that it is easy to assemble and recyclable. It is space-conscious with the ability to be folded up for tight spaces and times that furniture can’t be kept out. The chair holds up to 45 lbs. and is designed for babies up to 20 months old. The Feedaway comes in several colors with very cool patterns, too!

Remember playing in a box as a child? When one of our neighbors got a new refrigerator, it was like the Wells Fargo Wagon had come to town for all the kids on the block…that box became a castle, a pirate ship, a rocket ship, a mansion…everything we could imagine. Those kids who played in boxes grew up and made those dreams a reality, bringing childhood dreams to life. (Yet another “Why didn’t I think of that!?”). Cardboard houses are a great way to instill creativity in children. They don’t require the building hours and splinters of a wooden playhouse, and are easy for kids to decorate without the mess and clean-up of paint. Many days of play will take place in these fortresses of imagination!

As far as a cardboard crib goes, however, I can’t say that I think it’s a great idea. Cute, yes. Functional? In a cartoon. For about $300 US, parents could go out and get a really nice real crib.  Agreeing with Growing Your Baby, “Nothing screams ‘last baby’ or ‘we weren’t prepared’ like a cardboard crib.” I get the idea of trying to be eco-aware, but this is about as safe as putting the kid in a drawer.

So there are some great ideas for being eco-savvy. What other great ideas do you have for using cardboard when it comes to your kids?

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1. Start with the necessities.  In the first year of our Pea Pod’s life, we have used 3 pieces of furniture: a crib, changing table, and rocking chair. These are the things that are worth more of an investment since they will get lots of use. I do like transitional pieces that can be used throughout her years. Her crib can eventually be converted into a daybed and then into a twin-sized bed as she grows. Her changing table is the kind that we can someday remove the pad and use the top for books or pictures. I highly recommend a comfy rocking chair. After logging many hours already, with many more to come, I’m glad we selected a rocking chair with a sturdy cushion.

2. Wait for the right deal. Eventually, we will need a home for all of her stuffed animals, but until I find the right piece, they are living in a clear plastic box in her room. In a clear box, we can see her collection so she can easily get to her dolly-du-jour.  I wouldn’t even mind keeping them in the plastic box except that she now enjoys tipping the whole thing over for fun, and a more sturdy toy box will be a must-have. As we’ve waited on the toy box, we’ve been able to pin-point the things that this furniture requires for us: something very sturdy that can’t be tipped over, a lid that’s easy for a kid to open yet has soft-close hinges so those little fingers don’t get pinched, a box that can be used as an extra bench for sitting, etc. By not rushing, we can find this piece for the right price, and getting affordable baby furniture is a beautiful thing. Also, wait until the kid shows interest in a particular hobby/toy/plaything. We have a friend who simply had to have one of those huge train tables as decorum for her son’s room. It turns out he prefers space ships and that great big train table is often neglected.

4. Have fun! It’s a kid’s room, after-all. And they will be a kid for a while. Don’t be hesitant to add those brightly-colored boxes for their bookshelf or an over-sized beanbag  for them to climb all over. Consider that mini-table and chair set for tea parties. Find a pint-sized easel for the next mini-Monet. Encourage a toddler to giddy-up with a rocking horse to gallop across the plains of their room. There are some great little touches that are really not too expensive to give a kid’s room something special. At such a young age, stirring up and encouraging creativity is easily done in a fun, creative space and doesn’t have to cost a whole lot.

Images courtesy of Baby Earth, Pottery Barn Kids, Buy.com

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Image Source: potterybarnkids.com 

Our nursery has two big windows that face East. They get the most sun in the day, and let in lots of cold air at night. One of the first things we did was pick out baby curtains. I love the black-out panels from Pottery Barn Kids.  These curtains have made all of the difference. They not only maintain a good temperature in the room, but they also completely darken the room and block outside noises for peaceful naptimes. Prices range from $39-$59 for the Pottery Barn brand. They have plain panels for layering under curtains, which really give the room a very homey feel and can incorporate so many looks with the option of heavy curtains for a solid look or light curtains for a whimsical feel. I was hesitant to put long panels up as I didn’t want my baby to grab onto them and pull them down as she is learning to stand and be curious. Instead, we opted for blinds against the window with the black-out panels that already come in a colorful pattern that we have hung high enough out of her reach.

Image Source: justkindsstore.com

When it comes to decorating the crib, there’s not a lot that can be done with a brand new baby. Doctors discourage any stuffed animals and pillows in the crib when the baby is brand new, which leaves colorful sheets and a crib mobile to liven up that corner. Since it can be relaxing for a baby who needs to sleep as well as encourage brain development with it’s shapes and colors, picking out a good mobile is important. We picked one out by CoCaLo because it is brightly colored and the repetitive tune (Rock-A-Bye Baby) is not in a terribly obnoxious pitch. Prices range around $30-$50.

Playmats get so much use! When the baby is brand new, they like to lay on the mat and stare at the dangly toys. As the baby becomes more interactive (and starts teething around 5-6 months) those toys get more attention being batted around (and chewed on!). Playmats are where babies can log tummy-time hours and learn how to roll over so they can interact with all of the fun activities. This was how our baby learned to roll over…. as she saw the crinkly ear on the elephant of her playmat, she kept reaching reaching reaching until she had flipped from her back to belly and grabbed ahold of it. When the baby learns how to sit up, playmats are a soft, warm surface to sit on and continue to grow and develop. We really like the Tiny Love Gymini mat because it has something for each of the developing stages of baby’s days…fun animals to watch (and chew on!), classical music to listen to, and bright lights to interact with. Prices on playmats can range from $10-$200, and the one we picked out was reasonably priced at under $60.

There are so many ways to have fun decorating for kids. There is no limit to the color selection, patterns, phrases or pictures that can be put up. Even the practical items can now be incorporated into any decor. Just let your imagination run!

Check out HGTV for more creative decorating tips!

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Foundations Safe Rocker Glider: $449.99 $399.99

Foundations’ SafeRocker Glider features a fully enclosed tip-resistant base that prevents your curious little ones from accessing the gliding mechanism.  An extra-wide seat and extra-thick high-density foam cushions keep you comfortable while you rock babies to sleep.  Side pockets in the arm cushions let you store supplies close at hand.  Removable fabric cushions are easy to clean.  Sturdy hardwood is sure to withstand heavy use for years.  Meets strict California 117 fire standards.

Foundations Lullaby Glider Rocker: $229.94 $179.99

The Foundations Lullaby Glider Rocker features a spring-reinforced seat that offers a smooth, quiet glide.  Durable hardwood and a tip-resistant base make this a safe, sturdy choice.  The extra-wide seat and extra-thick high-density foam cushions keep you comfortable while you rock babies to sleep.  Deep pockets in the side panels let you store supplies close at hand.  Remove the fabric seat cover and side panels for easy cleaning.  Meets strict California 117 fire standards.

Rock on!

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more adult rocking chairs.

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1. Rockin’ Savings on Rockers at Right Start
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KidKraft Dollhouse Bookcase Flip Top $159.95 $87.72 on sale – ToyTownDreams.com is featured on Smarter.com with an even lower price of $74.99

Kidkraft’s Flip Top Dollhouse Bookcase is not just adorable, it can hold a ton of books and other knick knacks.  Little girls can play with their dolls in it, so it’s like a cool toy and a bookshelf in one!

KidKraft Puzzle Book Shelf: $129.95 $77.39

This one is so fun and is unisex.  I love the bright colors.  The bookcase is “virtually untippable” and made from hardwood.  The paint is lead free and non-toxic.

Guidecraft Safari Collection Book Display: $79.95 $52.92

I love this one because it displays the book covers, so it entices kids to read.  The shelves are canvas, so you can throw then in the washer.   The safari theme is really cute!

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more kids’ bookshelves and baby shelving.

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Deborah Lin-Dyken, pediatric sleep disorders expert says:

“There’s no set time when you have to replace your child’s crib with a regular or toddler bed, although most children make the switch sometime between ages 1 1/2 and 3 1/2.  It’s best to wait until your child is closer to 3, since many little ones just aren’t ready to make the transition.  Of course, you’ll need to move your toddler to a bed when he’s simply too big or too active to sleep in a crib anymore.  And once he’s potty-trained, he’ll need to be able to get out of bed to use the toilet.  Another reason parents make the switch to a bed is the impending arrival of another baby.  If this is your situation, make the switch at least six to eight weeks before you’re due.  You want your toddler well settled in his new bed before he sees the baby taking over “his” crib.”

Here are five fun and functional toddler beds:

Kidkraft Princess Toddler Bed: $104.23

Is this not the most precious bed ever?  Perfect for little princesses!  It is low to the ground so toddlers can easily get in and out.  A standard crib mattress fits the bed and bed rails help to keep them from rolling out.  Gold crowns and decorative painting make it something special!

DaVinci Sleigh Toddler Bed: $129.00

Classically styled, this bed comes in several colors including hard to find black.  The sturdy frame is made from New Zealand Radiata Pine and fits a standard crib mattress.

KidKraft Firefighter Bed: $109.95

KidKraft’s Firefighter series will make any boy or girl feel like a little hero!  The Fire Truck bed is brightly colored and has cool ladder cut-outs that also work as bed rails.  A special storage compartment is great for keeping a special bedtime story close at hand.  The silkscreened fire truck details really stand out.  Fits a standard size crib mattress.

Little Tikes Lightning McQueen Roadster Toddler Bed: $196.00

This is the toddler version of the hugely popular twin sized model!  Great for little fans of the movie!  The bed accepts a standard crib mattress.  Beds like this one make it easy to create a theme room for your toddler!

Kidkraft Nantucket Bed: $80.00

Low to the ground for safety, this bed is simple and fresh looking.  It fits a regular crib mattress and is solidly build from MDF and has a non-toxic finish.  It’s very attractive, even down to the affordable price!

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more affordable toddler beds.
Discounts on Da Vinci kids’ beds and KidKraft kids’ beds.

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Safety First!

All new baby cribs available today will meet minimum government standards regardless of price.  A safe crib should have tight-fitting mattress with almost no space between the mattress and the frame.  Carefully check that the crib has no cracked or broken slats.  Make sure all the hardware is included.

Antique or used cribs are desirable to many, but you must make sure that slats should be no more than 2 3/8″ apart (approximately the width of a soda can) and corner posts should not be higher than 1/16″.  Avoid cribs with decorative cutouts on the headboard or footboard.

Convertible crib?

Convertible cribs that turn into toddler beds are very popular and seem like a great bargain but consider whether or not you will have more children—you may end up having to buy a toddler bed so a sibling can use the crib.  Also, most cribs require the purchase of a special kit to be convertible which adds to the cost.

Drop sides?

Cribs are available with single side drop or double-drop sides that slide down.  Recent safety concerns have caused Toys R Us to begin phasing out the sale of drop side cribs.  Another option is a drop-gate crib with a fold-down side.   The safest choice would be to stick with a crib with fixed sides.  If you do end up with a drop side crib, make sure that it’s easy to lower the side while you’re holding baby.  The knee push lowering method is the easiest.  Make sure that the sides do not lower so much that baby can climb out.

Adjustable Mattress:

Adjustable crib mattress height is important so that you can easily put a sleeping newborn to bed at the highest setting and lower when the baby is older and mobile.  Look for a crib with at least two or three mattress heights is nice.  How is the mattress supported?  Avoid vinyl straps that could wear out.  Look for metal bars or a metal spring system to support the mattress.

One thing that many parents overlook is whether or not the crib can be wheeled around the room.  Look for sturdy casters when you’re shopping for a crib.  They make vacuuming MUCH easier!

Now that we’ve talked about the important stuff, let’s talk about the fun part: style!  Do you want a big fancy cherry wood crib?  How about something sleek and modern?  With possibilities are endless!  I recommend that you choose something fairly simple that will blend with whatever décor you choose for baby’s room.  My daughter’s crib has simple lines and is black and it looks great in her pink room.

Here are some great cribs:

The Da Vinci Kalani 3-1 Crib: $307.64

The sides do not move, ensuring stability and safety.

The Oeuf Sparrow Crib ($690) meets or exceeds all safety standards and has a sleek modern design.

The Dream On Me Contemporary Crib ($114.75) is proof that you can get everything you’re looking for in a crib and stay within budget.

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more affordable baby cribs.

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Kids’ Race Track Table and Chair Set: $199.99 Now: $119.99

Not only does it serve as an area for kids to color, draw and do other activities, but it is also an entertaining place for them to race around their cars.

Little boys and girls always seem to be intrigued by cars and other vehicles. I have never met a child who does not pause in amazement as they hear a car speed by, or see a motorcycle zoom across the road.  After the movie Cars came out, my little godson became obsessed with cars. I know he would absolutely love this fun and clever table set.  Children can use their imagination as they race their cars round the wooden tabletop speedway, then zoom them down the yellow spiral track down the middle of the table.  I can even imagine children moving their cars threw the tunnel-looking legs of the table and chairs.   In the center of the table is a convenient storage area in which your little driver can park his or her favorite vehicles.  This set is easy to clean, and is suitable for children ages 2-6.

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more baby kids’ furniture sets.

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I feel it’s always best to furnish and decorate baby and kids’ rooms with furniture and decor that will help inspire creativity.  Like this set of fun safari themed table and chairs.  Kids can sit among their friends and favorite animals while playing with their toys, eating nutritious meals or coloring.

Safari Table and Animal Chairs: $249.99 Now: $219.95

If you want to stick with the safari theme, here is an cute bean bag set….

Animal Bean Bag Toss – Lowest price on Smarter.com: $45.85

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more kids’ tables and kids’ chairs.
Discounts on bean bag toss games.
Buy safari nursery decor.

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Add this to your list of New Year’s resolutions: Get organized!  That includes the nursery.  Help encourage your children to keep a tidy and organized nursery with these rolling canvas bins from Pottery Barn Kids.  The rolling trays are sold separately, but if you don’t feel like spending the extra cash, I think the bins alone will still look great in the nursery and will still help make some much needed extra space.

Rolling Low Tray Storage: $29 Now: $19.99 for the tray/ $44 for the bins

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more nursery storage.

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