The Shopping Mama

Radio Flyer Build-A-Trike: Amazing Custom Tricycle Designed by You! {Review}

by Kate on May 17th, 2013 | 5 Comments | Reviews, Toys

Radio Flyer has been creating toys for outdoor play for nearly 100 years and we are all familiar with its iconic red wagon. Despite its long history, the company offers a decidedly modern and innovative program to build a completely custom wagon or tricycle. We are delighted Radio Flyer provided us the opportunity to build a tricyle for Max.

Build a Smile, Build an Adventure, Build a Trike!

The Build-A-Trike program on RadioFlyer.com is a blast! It’s easy to use, with a preview that updates as you add and change features so you always know what you’re going to get. There are a surprising amount of options – everything from the style of tricycle to the fabric color to adding speakers.

The base tricycle includes the removable steering handle that allows parent to aid (or have control) over where your little one goes. The telescoping handle moves up and down and is angled for parent comfort. It can truly substitute for a stroller, and is perfect as toddlers grow and want independence but aren’t ready to walk on their own. Your child can peddle as you guide or rest his feet on the foot rests and just enjoy the ride.

The first choice in customizing your trike? Pink or classic red tricycle. Next you can chose to add upgraded tires. If, like us, you’re going to use the tricycle as a stroller of sorts, we definitely recommend the upgrade. The all-terrain air-filled rubber tires are impressive, measuring 10 inches in diameter and 3.5 inches wide. They are perfect for rolling on the sidewalk and over rougher terrain like mulch and rocks.

There are two storage options: the included bucket or basket upgrade. The basket provides more storage space and is really helpful on our walk to the bus stop commute as it frequently holds a backpack or drink or snacks.

The next set of upgrades transform the tricycle from a classic trike to a stroller trike or somewhere in between. We added the headrest and seatbelt with seatpad and the wrap around tray to keep Max steady and secure. The UV blocking canopy is a great option for those of you in sunny locales.

The wrap-around tray provides 360 degree support for younger toddlers and includes a drink holder. The headrest and seatbelt include a three-point harness for safety. Both the tray and the headrest piece are removable so the tricycle grows as your child develops. There are three fabric choices for the seatpad and canopy.

The classic bell is a must-have (and very affordable $5) upgrade. I honestly think this is my favorite part of the tricycle – and maybe it’s just because Max can actually do it himself. He looks so proud when he rings the bell!

The parent pouch snaps on the handle has a large pocket on one side and a smaller pouch on the other, which is perfect for a cell phone.

Personalize your creation with a name plate of up to 2 lines and 20 characters. For true luxury, add the Safeguard speaker system with waterproof case so you can play music from your iPad or MP3 player while on the go.

Max’s Custom Trike

We absolutely adore Max’s Custom Tricyle. It is obviously really cool to have a custom tricycle we designed, but the best part about it is the Radio Flyer quality. We knew as we were assembling the tricycle that it was different from others we’ve had. Each part and piece has a weight and heftiness that signifies the quality of the materials. From the rubber on the tires to the padded handlebar, every detail of the trike is amazing.

But, of course, as a mom the thing I like the best about the Radio Flyer Trike is how much Max enjoys it. It’s an easy way to please him if he’s fussy, and, yes, I have resorted to putting him in his tricycle in the kitchen while I’m cooking dinner.

Shop! Whether you add one single option or all the accessories, the Radio Flyer Build-A-Trike program allows you to get the perfect tricycle for you. The base tricycle starts at $75 and goes up to $205 if you opt for all the bells (literally) and whistles. Start your summer on the right ~~foot~~ wheel and preorder now for June 1 shipment.

Thanks to Radio Flyer for providing a sample. Photos by Catherine Murton for The Shopping Mama.

Crawlings Baby & Toddler Knee Pads {Review}

by Kate on May 13th, 2013 | 5 Comments | Baby, Reviews, Toddler

As mamas we’ve all learned the hard way that baby’s are pretty resilient. Nonetheless, we do every little thing we can to keep our babies comfortable and that’s what Crawlings are all about. The baby and toddler knee pads are a cute and effective way to protect a crawling or tumble-prone little one.

The knee pads are made of a soft and stretchy cotton/rayon/spandex blend fabric. There’s an elasticized band at the top and the bottom to help keep the knee pads in place. The pad is made of EVA cushion that’s pliable and won’t dig or scratch baby’s leg.

The back of the knee pads are vented for comfort.

Max is walking like a pro these days, so at this stage Crawlings are a colorful accessory. I would have loved to have the kneepads when Max was crawling! We have hard tile floor and, despite his perfectly designed baby knees, that just can’t feel good. The kneepads don’t hinder Max’s movement or activity at all, anything but some extra comfort. As summer approaches, the knee pads are perfect for little ones exploring the outdoors for the first time.

We think a pair of Crawlings is a super fun and original baby shower or new baby gift. Right now we’re loving the limited edition (and gender neutral) Left & Right Knee Pads, the Pink Striped Bandage Knee Pads and Baseball Knee Pads.

Shop! Crawlings are available in a variety of sweet, fun and colorful designs. Every pair is $22.

Thanks to Crawlings for providing a sample. Photos by Catherine Murton for The Shopping Mama.

Chicco NextFit Convertible Car Seat

by Kate on March 25th, 2013 | 5 Comments | Gear, On the Go

In 2007 when my first son was 53 weeks old, my son moved to a convertible car seat. He was forward facing.

In 2009, we turned my daughter’s car seat forward facing when she was 14 months old.

When you know better, you do better. – Maya Angelou

I know better now. I know it is far safer for my children to ride rear facing longer so I will do better. Max will remain rear facing until he outgrows the height or weight limit of his car seat. That right there is one reason I am totally excited to be using the new Chicco NextFit Convertible Car Seat. It has a rear facing weight limit of 40 pounds and boasts an innovative installation system that makes it easy to get the correct fit, angle and install every time.

The NextFit is Chicco’s first convertible car seat offered in the US, and it joins the highly rated Chicco KeyFit Infant Car Seat. The mission of the car seat is to provide the ultimate in safety through a simple, accurate and secure install and use program. Because ultimately, your child’s car seat is only safe as possible if it’s installed correctly.

You know how some car seats require a pool noodle or rolled towel to achieve the correct recline position? Not the NextFit. It has a 9-position leveling system that enables it to sit correctly in a wide range of cars. The NextFit has the same RideRight bubble level indicator as the KeyFit which takes the guesswork out of the seat angle. And, hallelujah, no more wrestling with the car seat to get a tight belt attachment! The SuperCinch LATCH tightener helps reach a tight and secure fit.

So, once the car seat is installed correctly it has to be belted correctly, and the NextFit has innovations in that area, too. The NextFit can be used with children from 5 to 65 pounds so it has a chest clip with two positions to fit the torso of smaller and larger children. As your child grows, there’s no need to rethread (phew!), as the harness straps adjust in height AND width as you move the headrest.

Ages & Stages for Safe Car Seat Use

(See image larger.)

Max & the NextFit

We are so happy to have Max riding in a NextFit and over the next couple weeks we’ll be sharing our experience using the convertible car seat with Max. I’ll share photos of it in both or our cars, tell you about securing it in the cars and adjusting the harness to get the right fit for our little guy and, for the sake of comparison, our 4 year old daughter.

Shop! The Chicco NextFit has a suggested retail price of $299. It’s available in a number of patterns from Babies R Us, Target, BuyBuyBaby and specialty retailers, including our affiliate Magic Beans.

Thanks to Chicco for providing a sample.

STOKKE Xplory Stroller {Review}: Stroll & Go in Style

by Kate on March 15th, 2013 | 5 Comments | Reviews, Strollers

The STOKKE family of strollers is the ultimate example of function meeting form in baby gear. The brand’s first stroller, the STOKKE Xplory is the original “connection stroller” that encourages families to enjoy the world together, in style.

stokke xplory review parent facing

STOKKE Xplory Stroller

Before we get to ins and outs of how the Xplory fits into our family, let’s go over the basics. STOKKE is a luxury children’s brand out of Norway that creates innovative and undeniably modern gear for families. The Xplory is a single stroller that transforms to grow with your child (and family) from birth.

The basic stroller encompasses two pieces: the Seat and Chassis. The Seat can face both forward and backward; it has two recline positions facing the world and three when parent-facing. The “Sleep” position reclines quite flat, but there is an optional Carry Cot for Newborns that ensures a smooth, comfortable ride for the littlest of babes. As your family grows you can add other accessories, like the Sibling Board, to accommodate two kids.

The Xplory Seat has a weight capacity of 45 pounds and has a padded five-point harness. The shoulder strap has three different positions to adjust as your child grows taller. The stroller has a small footprint, but the Seat is deceptively big. It’s deep enough for bigger toddlers and the adjustable footrest ensures a cozy ride. It also comes with a removable Baby Insert to provide extra support for newborns in the Seat.

The Chassis is entirely customizable to achieve the ideal position for cruising. One of the noteworthy features is how high the Seat sits on the Chassis, enabling the close connection between parent and child. The Seat height is totally adjustable, though, and you can move it up and down the Chassis. The Seat sits so high and upright that you can push it right up to the table and use it as a highchair, if you wish. The handlebar height is adjustable and you can change the angle of it, too.

The Xplory wheels are made of a never-go-flat soft material. The front wheels are smaller than the rear and they swivel for maximum maneuverability. The combination of the light weight (26.5 pounds) and the unique shaped handlebar, it ridiculously easy to push with a single-hand. The two-wheel function makes it easier to push (er, pull) across uneven ground like sand or snow. There’s a single brake that controls both rear wheels that is relatively flip-flop friendly.

In lieu of a traditional stroller basket, the Xplory has a Shopping Bag that sits near the ground on the front of the stroller. Having the Bag close to the ground helps to provide stability because shopping bags aren’t hanging off the back of your stroller.

Finally, we have to talk about how the Xplory looks. It’s an understatement to say the stroller is eye-catching; it truly turns heads. I think I can safely say that every single day someone comments on or asks about the Xplory. It probably doesn’t garner as much attention in cities or areas where the stroller is widely seen, but it’s stylish no matter where you are! The Xplory is available in a number of fabric colors, including the gorgeous Black Melange we have.

Day-to-Day with the Xplory

Truth be told, I think the Xplory is ideal for city dwellers, but it works perfectly in our semi-suburban life, too. While we do walk around our village, we are most often in and out of the car for errands and preschool drop off. For that reason, the Xplory has a permanent home in my minivan trunk. Folding the stroller does require removing the Seat from the Chassis so it’s not a simple one-step process.

Often poor Max’s naps are interrupted or cut short. The parent-facing deep recline “Sleep” position makes it possible to transfer a napping Max from the car seat into the stroller – and he remains asleep. I know, it’s a miracle!

In many situations, the Xplory is Max’s seat for long periods of time. From basketball games to trips to the nail salon, Max chills out comfortably in his Seat.

The adjustable handlebar is ideal for tall parents and caregivers of different heights. The handlebar telescopes up and down and the angle also adjusts for the most ergonomic position. The Xplory is so easy to push that, with a little handlebar adjustment, even a 4 year old can do it.

Exploring with the Xplory

When I traveled to Paris, the Xplory was invaluable. We made great use of the included Rain Cover. The stroller also comes with a Mosquito Net. See more photos and read about how I used the STOKKE in Paris. The Shopping Bag was a lifesaver on the trip, because it carried the Rain Cover when we were indoors, the travel book when we weren’t using it and, of course, all of our purchases!

Stokke Xplory Baby Cargo Georgi at Louvre

Thank goodness for the awesomely cozy Foot Muff, which keeps Max warm on all of our adventures!

We have so many adventures coming up so I will continue to share photos and stories of how the Xplory helps us stroller and go in style.

To Buy or Not to Buy

To Buy… The Stokke Xplory is a luxury stroller that deserves the attention and admiration its unique appearance demands. The stroller is designed for the ultimate parent and child connection. The stroller is customizable to achieve your ultimate ride – adjust the height of the seat, the recline, handlebar and footrest. The addition of accessories – from the Carrycot to the Sibling Board to Car Seat Adapters – means the Xplory can grow with your child and your family.

Or Not to Buy… Luxury doesn’t come cheap and the stroller may not work for every lifestyle. Consider how you’ll use it and if it’s a good fit, we think it’s a worth investment if you can use it with multiple children. A couple of the things that may present a challenge include the multi-step fold and lack of storage basket.

Shop! The STOKKE Xplory Stroller is $1,099 and available in a variety of stylish colors. Our affiliate Magic Beans offers a great selection of STOKKE products and accessories. We use the Cup Holder and can’t imagine the German winter without the Foot Muff.

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More STOKKE on The Shopping Mama

STOKKE Stroller & PramPack Giveaway

Stokke Xplory & PramPack Transport Bag Giveaway
Black Melange Inspired Accessories
Meet Stokke Crusi & Stokke Scoot
Stokke Sleepi Crib Review
Stokke Sleepi Mini
Stokke Care Video

Photo credits: Robyn Middleton Photography

Bumbo Step Stool {Review}

by Kate on March 14th, 2013 | 5 Comments | Reviews, Toddler

Can you think of a product designed for children that you never imagined you would need? I mean, really need? For my family, it’s definitely a good step stool. And, when you think about it, it makes total sense that this is a necessity: all the fixtures, sinks, toilets and so on and so on are designed for adult-sized people. Day after day, our little one’s height doesn’t quite measure up to their independence and they need a little boost to get things done.

The good news is you can get an awesome Step Stool at a totally affordable price. At only $15, the Bumbo Step Stool is ready to give your family a lift.

The Step Stool has a simple, totally functional design. The top is covered in a textured, slip resistant material. The bottom bumps out to help provide stability and is also slip resistant. And it really sticks to the floor – I’ve tried to slide it across the floor with my foot to move it and it doesn’t budge.

It’s super lightweight and portable to move around from room to room. Ours makes the rounds on our first floor between the bathroom and the kitchen. The Step Stool is tested to 110 pounds, but on more than one occasion I’ve loved having the Stool in the kitchen so I can step on it to reach the top shelf. (And, I obviously weigh more than 110 pounds.)

Shop! The Bumbo Step Stool is available from our affiliate Amazon for $14.99. It’s available in black, pink or blue.

Thanks to Bumbo for providing a sample.

Citrus Lane {Review & Discount Code}: Monthly Delivery of Goods for Your Tot

by Kate on March 8th, 2013 | 5 Comments | Baby, Reviews, Toddler

Want to know one of the weird things I miss about living in Germany? Getting packages delivered to our home. Silly, right? But there’s just something about seeing the delivery truck stop in front of your house, hearing the doorbell ring and wondering what fun has arrived. (We still receive more than our fair share of deliveries, but now I have to go to the post office on base to pick them up. And that’s not just the same.) Citrus Lane takes the anticipation to a whole new level with monthly deliveries of a surprise assortment of the latest and greatest gear picked just for your tot.

How It Works

Citrus Lane is a subscription service that delivers carefully curated boxes of children’s products geared towards your child’s age. We know you’re getting the scoop on all sorts of great gear here on The Shopping Mama (wink, nudge), but the idea is that you’ll discover a variety of brands and products without taking the time to walk the aisles of your local stores or scour the web. Citrus Lane only includes brands they believe in and products that are suitable for your child at that stage – from birth and, as of February, through five years old.

When you register, you tell them your child’s birthday and, if you wish, you can specify the gender, too. And then you sit back and wait for your box of goodies to be delivered.

The Citrus Lane website has an awesome interactive feature to give you an inside look at past boxes so you have an idea of what sorts of things to expect, though each month’s exact contents remains a surprise until they arrive.

Citrus Lane Animal Parade Box

We received the Animal Parade box filled with animal-themed finds for Max to enjoy now or grow into. The box included a generously-sized Green Spouts Bib, Begin Again Blocks, Rich Frog Sponge, BabyBug story magazine and Plum Organics Teensy Fruits. While we’re familiar with most of the brands included, every item is new to us so it’s definitely been fun to try new things. Which, of course, is the beauty of Citrus Lane.

All three of my kids loved the Plum Organics Teensy Fruits and Citrus Lane makes it easy to track down more. Every box includes an information sheet with background on the box, a description of every item and purchasing information so you can order more of your favorite discoveries.

Citrus Lane Subscription Options

The price of your monthly delivery depends on the subscription you chose and shipping is always free. If you want to give it a try without commitment, go for the Monthly Subscription at $25 a month which is billed monthly and can be canceled at any time. A 3-Month subscription is $75 paid at once (so also $25 a box) and it renews automatically. The most cost-effective option is a 6-Month subscription that is $21 per month paid upfront with automatic renewal.

Citrus Lane also offers gift options so you can arrange for delivery of monthly “care packages for moms” to a friend or new mom.

Shop! Use code takehalf which will take half-off your first month’s box on a MONTHLY subscription (a savings of $12.50). Or, if you opt for the 3 or 6 Month Subscription, you can receive $10 off your order at Citrus Lane when you register through our link.

Thanks to Citrus Lane for providing a sample.

10 Awesome Walkers for Babies on the Move

by Kate on January 15th, 2013 | 5 Comments | Shopping

Here’s the deal: a walker is a great investment when your baby starts cruising. A good walker provides sturdy support for little ones to lean on as they push and cruise around the house; most are recommended for children starting at 12 months. Many walkers do double duty and also serve as a “wagon” so your toddler can move tow toys. Some have built in toys that entertain independent of the walker function. And some even transform from walker to ride on toy to last beyond the early toddling stage. Depending on the brand and features, prices range from $20 to $175 and beyond.

The Best Walkers for Babies and Toddlers

We’ve rounded up 10 Awesome Walkers for Baby ranging from basic to splurge. Scroll through to check them out.

123 Grow With Me Walker

Glodos Flap Walker

Hape Wonder Walker

Hape Zebra Walker

IKEA EKORRE Wagon Walker

Janod Original ABC Buggy Walker

Manhanttan Toy Stow and Go Activity Cart

Melissa & Doug Chomp and Clack Alligator Walker

PlanToys Baby Walker with Blocks

VTech Sit to Stand Learning Walker

1-2-3 Grow With Me ($120). Transforms from walker to ride on toy to buggy.
Glodos Flap ($174.99). Sleek modern wooden walker with rubber wheels and fabric cargo area.
Hape Wonder Walker ($79.78). Non-toxic walker with five built-in activities including knobs, gears and balls.
Hape Zebra Walker ($59.99). Two cute zebras “gallop” when baby pushes the Hape Educo Walker.
IKEA EKORRE Toddle Wagon / Walker ($19.99). Affordable modern walker with plenty of room to stow toys.
Janod Original ABC Buggy Baby Walker with Blocks ($69.99). This colorful walker from French company, Janod, has ABC blocks and an abacus to entertain after baby has mastered walking.
Manhattan Toy Stow and Go Activity Cart ($67.51). Colorful cart has built-in activities, a sturdy nylon pocket and an anti-tip braking function.
Melissa & Doug Deluxe Chomp & Clack Alligator Push Toy ($32.95). The brightly colored walker delights baby’s senses with alligators that make noise as baby pushes them along.
PlanToys Baby Walker and Blocks ($56.20). The handle on this PlanToys Walker can be adjusted to different heights and stiffness as baby’s walking skills improve. Comes with 24 blocks.
VTech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker ($33.24). Activity panel can be removed from the Walker for play on the floor. Easily attaches to walker for fun on the move.