3. Did You know? - CPSC's What's In & What's Out for a Safe New Year

4. The Edge - Industry and Product News to Keep You Ahead

5. Product Update Pages | 6. Baby Shop Article Archives | 7. Highlights for the Next Baby Shop


The Edge

 

Special Bulletin

There has been a new addition to the Spindle Family! Wendy Cibula gave birth to Joseph Henry Cibula on January 26th 2002 at 12:22am. He weighs 8 pounds, 7 ounces. Everyone at Spindle Publishing Company would like to congratulate the Cibula Family.

Industry Trade Show News

JPMA TO CAPTIVATE AUDIENCE AT THE 2002 INTERNATIONAL JUVENILE PRODUCTS SHOW
Baby Furniture Plus Pledges Support
The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) is pleased to announce a blend of new and exciting opportunities available May 3-5 at the 2002 International Juvenile Products Show held at the International Apparel Mart in Dallas, Texas.

“Baby Furniture Plus stands strongly behind JPMA and the show, and anticipates a highly successful event in May 2002,” says John Alexander, executive director, Baby Furniture Plus. “The International Juvenile Products Show sponsored by JPMA is an extremely valuable vehicle to independent retailers, and we are pleased to be a part of it.”

Visitors will experience first hand the importance of color and texture from a juvenile viewpoint at the Trends Show. Through the explosive energy of children from all age groups, attendees and exhibitors will see the smiles, hear the laughter, and delight in this runway production. The first viewing of the Trends Show is opening night, Friday, May 3 at 6:00 PM, with an encore presentation the following day, Saturday, May 4 at 12:30 PM.

JPMA Trade Show Highlights
Another highlight not to be missed is the Color Trend Panels display created by Doneger Consulting. These panels identify color and lifestyle trends for children up to 10 years of age. A study of the various environments of children in this age group will be displayed throughout the show in the form of colors, patterns, materials and style.

Locating exhibit spaces this year will be simple and quick. Attendees can view the show with time saving on-site locators available in various locations. The kiosks enable attendees to locate exhibiting companies and products using a key word search by product name or company.
In an ongoing effort to help navigate the show, a dedicated Courtesy Patrol of individuals dressed in brightly colored jackets will travel throughout the show to answer questions and give directions.

The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association, Inc. is a national trade organization of more than 400 companies in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. These companies manufacture and/or import infant products such as cribs, car seats, strollers, bedding, and a wide range of accessories and decorative items.

For more information on the 2002 International Juvenile Products Show, or becoming a member of JPMA, contact JPMA at 17000 Commerce Parkway, Ste. C, Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054; phone 856-439-0500; fax: 856-439-0525; E-mail jpma@ahint.com or visit www.jpma.org.

 

Juvenile Furniture

Bratt Decor's New Lower Prices and High Quality Designs Brings the Elite to the Mainstream
In an effort to increase sales and compete in a quickly changing marketplace, Bratt Decor has slashed prices on all of their iron collection and are working to expand their Mainstreet Collection which debuted at last year's JPMA.

"We believe the lowering of our wholesale prices on our iron line will allow our specialty shops to be more competitive in the marketplace. We've test marketed the results and it's been amazing! Our iron line has been extremely well received since our incorporation 6 years ago and lowering prices will only make it more popular. Until now, it was almost impossible to buy an iron crib for less than $1200; now our most popular model, Casablanca Premiere, will retail for $900," says President Mary Bauer.

Additionally, the company has added another wooden crib to their Mainstreet Collection. "Our newest crib, Heritage, is available in barn red and white. It is handrubbed and constructed of maple. It boasts four oversized posters and is proving to be another hit." says designer VP, Stephen Bauer. Given the success of the Dick and Jane cribs Bratt Decor feels this latest crib will be also be huge success. They are currently taking orders on it, and the wholesale costs is $315. To view this and all of our pieces, visit our website www.brattdecor.com.

Bratt Decor is still a very small company owned and operated by husband and wife, Stephen and Mary Bauer.

"One advantage to being a small company is you are able to change gears very quickly. When we began this company, we were definitely a high-end line offering products for only the most exclusive of retailers. Now, without compromising any quality or style, we've restructured our prices and mainstreamed some of our designs to have a wider appeal. We've seen a great change in the marketplace in just the last 5 years. You basically had 2 types of retailer, the high end boutique and the low end mass merchant. There really is a middle ground, which did not exist in the same degree several year's ago. With the rising success of Pottery Barn Kids, Ethan Allen and an entire slew of online retailers you're seeing much cooler things offered in a price range that was unheard of 5 year's ago. We're attempting to create a line that speaks to that customer", says Ms. Bauer.

To view our line, get prices, or request additional information, visit our web site at www.brattdecor.com or call us at 888-24-BRATT


Juvenile Products

Alessco Inc. introduces the first safe & soft children's personalized flooring system.
Now your customers can create any combination of our FLIP-FLOP PUZZLE MATS and we'll drop ship it via UPS the next day. Each 2'x2' Letter or Design is only $9.50 (that's only $2.38 per sq.ft.) and the solid colors are only $5.12 (that's only $1.28 per sq.ft.) and all of the surrounding Border pieces and Corner pieces are FREE! We have many digital images available for your ads and catalogs and we'll also make our Flash site programming available to your web designer. Please visit our test site at www.namethatfloor.com or call 800-ALESSCO to get a better idea of this exciting new product. Remember, there's no inventory - just show and sell and we'll do the rest.

Comfort Silkie - The Company That Loves Babies
Comfort Silkie Company is known for its beautiful packaging, researched comfort products, luxurious fabrics, and parenting tips. The company was created by Jeanelle Troncone and her husband, Greg out of their genuine love for children. They have six children of their own, and Jeanelle has over 20 years experience as an Early Parenthood and Childbirth Educator. Over a decade and a half ago, they began researching infant comfort needs and realized that there were no products available specifically addressing those needs. After reviewing years of accumulated research and working with babies and parents, the original Comfort Silkie Soft and Silkie Security Blanket was created. The blanket's soothing tactile and comforting attributes were designed to provide the comfort response that babies often need.

At that time, the size and concept of the Soft and Silkie Security Blanket was new to the juvenile industry. However, parents and babies immediately understood this unique product that was sized for little hands and embodied three comfort sensations. The juvenile industry soon realized the Soft and Silkie Security Blanket's importance. Parents and professionals esteemed the product by awarding Comfort Silkie Company with The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Award and The National Parenting Center's Seal of Approval.

Their special understanding of baby comfort needs brought to light the need for the second product they designed and patented, the Infant Swaddler. Hospital nurses teach new mothers how to calm their new babies by swaddling. However, parents often find it difficult to duplicate the wrapping technique. Receiving blankets were too small and larger blankets were too bulky for adequately swaddling. The Comfort Silkie Company addressed this problem by creating the easy-to-wrap design of the Infant Swaddler that provides the calming sensations baby needs.

The Infant Swaddler is a uniquely shaped blanket that is packaged with parenting tips and information on swaddling. Because baby comfort, security and safety are motivating factors in all the Comfort Silkie products, The Infant Swaddler was designed with no Velcro closures. The Infant Swaddler is held in place by the baby being positioned on its back or side, which is the prescribed position for helping in the prevention of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).

The favorite keepsake gift, Comfort Silkie Cuddle Cap and Snuggle Booties' packaging carries the parenting insight that a newborn's temperature mechanism does not regulate well. Again, with comforting in mind, a chilled baby is a fussy and uncomfortable baby. "We are putting a wonderful product in the hands of parents that they can actually use in their parenting," Jeanelle says, "Comfort Silkie is like a nurturing voice for new parents, especially those that may be without their extended families." Each Comfort Silkie product is a combination of ultra-soft fabrics including the luxurious Cloud Satin and Fleece Blanket, Satin-Backed Crib Blanket, Single and Double Flannel Satin Trimmed Blankets, Bubble Me Nursing Cover, and Combination Gift Basket. Besides the traditional pink and blue, nearly all of the products come in 10 color choices.

Comfort Silkie's distinctive gift packaging adds to its popularity as a favorite baby shower gift. Many of Comfort Silkie products are now available in the new ribbon-tied gift packaging. Each product presents itself as a gift, tied with whimsical gossamer ribbon and Comfort Silkie card. "Our products are often given as a gift and they quickly become part of the
family," notes Jeanelle. "For instance, the e-mail and picture we received today from Emma's daddy, ' My wife got one of your blankets as a gift. Our ten-week-old baby girl loves it! We'll be buying two more soon, because we don't want to imagine what would happen if we lost it.' "

Comfort Silkie understands the importance of customers being able to see and feel how wonderful the products are without disturbing store packaging. Because of this, they provide an open sample for store display of the Soft and Silkie Security Blanket and the Infant Swaddler when they are included in any opening order. A copy of the educational insert on infant attachment, which is included in each Soft and Silkie Security Blanket packaging, is attached to the sample with a satin ribbon.

Comfort Silkie is proud that they represent high quality, made-in-the USA products. They do not "job" out any of their production: this gives them complete control of quality and timeframe of product manufacturing. It also has given them the ability to consistently ship in a correct and complete fashion.

Don't miss the new products that Comfort Silkie is introducing this fall. If you haven't seen their new ribbon-tied line, call today for product information. Please inquire about their Show Special at 1-800-266-BABY (2229).

Mommy's Helper Introduces Child-Safe Night Light w/ Outlet-Lok™
Safety at its best, and virtually childproof! Once installed the Mommy’s Helper Night Light cannot be unplugged by a child. Nor can the light bulb be tampered with – eliminating an electrical hazard.

The safety aspect of the Night Light is completed by the tethered Shock-Lok™, which shields the bottom outlet from curious children.

Stylish – but not playful – so not to attract attention. Automatic on / off photo sensor makes it practical for every room in the house. Listed with Underwriters Laboratory (UL) and uses standard night light bulb. Estimated Retail: $4.99
Please contact Mommy's Helper Inc. at 800-371-3509 or www.mommyshelperinc.com

 

“Simplify your life” with Safeline Kids

The company that has brought you the most popular travel carseat/stroller on the market is introducing two new lines of daiper bags available March 1, 2002. The nylon outdoor and microfiber style bags simplify your daily life by providing two bags in one, a bag for mom and one for child.

The Sit’n’Stroll continues to simplify travel for parents. This FAA approved carseat/stroller allows parents to travel through airports free of lugging a carseat, stroller, bags etc. Consumers have recently confirmed the usefulness of the product as they have waded through heavy airport traffic and long lines with ease and comfort.

View Safeline Kids products at www.safelinekids.com or call 1-800-829-1625 for dealer information.

 

 

Stephan Enterprises, Inc. Presents New for 2002 Praying Doll Lamps
Each Praying Doll Lamp has a switch on the cord to provide light for bedtime stories,
and a soft glow to fall asleep by.


For informationcall 1-800-359-2917 or stephanenterprises.com.

 

 

The TABY Tray -- Your Child's Entertainment Center
Taby Tray is a children's product (actually for parents) manufactured and marketed by CNC-KE Inc. of Charlotte, North Carolina for Taby Tray, Inc., of Garland, Texas. Taby stands for,Toddlers Against Boredom Yippee.

The Taby Tray is unique in the market with a focus as an accessory for car seats and strollers. The tray is usable by children between the ages of 6 months and 4 years in conjunction with a car seat or a stroller and can also be used as a lap tray with older children and adults. At this time, the Taby Tray has no direct competition in the specific juvenile product tray market. Taby Tray was issued a patent in March 1995. A trademark for the exclusive use of the name "TABY" was issued in March 1995. A copyright was registered concerning the Taby Tray packaging label in September 1994.

The Taby Tray has been safety tested by independent laboratories for compliance with both the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard #213 and Consumer Product Safety regulations 16 CRF which supports the ASTM (American Society of Testing and Material). Taby Tray has been on the children's market for about four years now and we are exploring all avenues of marketing and growing our product. And something that we are very excited about trying in the near future is to add some pictures to the tray, such as the M&M's figures, to make the tray a little more interesting to the child.

The suggested retail price of the Taby Tray is $19.95 each plus shipping. Please call 888-412-TABY (8229) for a purchasing information or go to our website at www.taby.com.

What's new at Tots In Mind, Inc.?
Let Tots in Mind offer you peace of mind through innovative infant and toddler products that are ideal for nap time, nighttime, anytime. Tots in Mind products are safety tested and designed with convenience in mind. Our product line includes our patented, state of the art, Cozy Crib Tent and Cozy Portable Playard Tent Plus Cabana kit, our versatile Baby's Bug Net (the two piece insect proofing system), and Baby's all-in-one Portable Pouch.

The Tots in Mind Baby's Bug Net (the two piece insect proofing system) was designed to help eliminate insects, even the small no-see-ums, from baby's changing environment. This versatile two piece insect proofing system fits most standard size cribs, rectangular playards, port-a-cribs, bassinets, as well as canopied and tandem style strollers. Designed with your convenience in mind, the Baby's Bug Net (the two piece insect proofing system) features a dual net system allowing easy access to your child. For optimum efficiency in cribs and playards as your child grows, use our Baby's Bug Net in conjunction with the Tots in Mind Cozy Crib Tent or with the Cozy Portable Playard Tent plus Cabana Kit.

The Tots in Mind® Baby's all-in-one Portable Pouch offers you more than your average stroller bag. Designed with your convenience in mind, Baby's all-in-one Portable Pouch provides one product for one low cost that affords the versatility of many applications and does most everything all other mesh bags do - all in one! This innovative product attaches to most cribs, port-a-cribs, playards, bassinets, changing tables, strollers and carriages and can also be used in the tub, shower, on a high chair or even on the back of a seat in your car. This is possible because of the three different attachment types included: tri-velcro locking system for railings and spindles, suction cups for showers, tubs and smooth surfaces! patented high-impact clips for playard attachment!

The Tots in Mind Cozy Indoor/Outdoor Portable Playard Tent Plus Cabana Kit offers you two products in one! Our patented and safety tested design helps prevent injuries from falls, unattended wandering, and helps keep playard from tipping while keeping children and their belongings in the playard and unwanted visitors, such as the family pet, out. The unique high-impact clip design allows the Cozy Portable Playard Tent to attach securely to your portable playard. For your convenience and your child's comfort, the Cozy Portable Playard Tent provides ample head room and a large soft zipper, designed for quick easy access to your child. This innovative product also provides The Cabana Kit, designed especially for infants, features a UV coated sunshade, waterproof floor, and superior quality insect netting.

When it comes to the safety of your infant or toddler, we understand your needs. If you are interested in placing an order or if you would like to learn more about the Tots in Mind product line contact us at 800-626-0339 or info@totsinmind.com. Visit our web site at www.totsinmind.com.

 

Maternity & Nursing Apparel

Medela Introduces New Beautiful Beginnings Seamless Bras Maternity/Nursing Intimate Apparel Line.
Medela introduced a new line of maternity/nursing bras that feature a completely new seamless design. The new Beautiful Beginnings Seamless Softcup and Underwire Bras give a smooth, natural line and fit, with the complete coverage, comfort, and support a expectant or nursing mother needs. The seamless design features a molded cup that provides excellent support and control combined with a unique fabric which has the flexibility to comfortably adapt to a nursing mother’s changing breast fullness throughout the day. This feature also helps expectant mothers find the comfort they need as their breast size increases throughout the latter stages of pregnancy.

The outer cup fabric is a woven lacey pattern that is lightweight, airy and adds a touch of soft femininity. The cups are lined with a soft cotton blend fabric that provides additional coverage. The new bras feature non-stretch straps for greater support, an extra wide 4-station back with 3 or 4-hook closures, and an attractive scoop back. A custom designed cushioned wire is featured on the underwire style.

The Medela Seamless bra line offers several other outstanding features: a unique, easy-to-use one-hand outer cup release; a two-piece cup design with a wide inner cup that provides added support while allowing mothers to breastfeed baby with excellent skin-to-skin contact. As with all Medela bras, the new seamless garments accommodate the pump attachment for the hands-free Medela electric breastpump. The seamless line is available in sizes 32B through 42DD and size 34F in both soft cup and underwire styles. Introductory specials are available for a limited time, and POP/Fitting Room displays are available at no charge with minimum intimate apparel purchases.

For more information, contact Medela, Inc., P. O. Box 660, McHenry, IL 60051-0660; phone 815-363-1166, 1-800-435-8316 or fax 1-800-363-1246; or visit the Medela web site: www.medela.com.

The Loving Comfort!® Maternity Support Family is showcased on a new web site at www.maternitysupport.com.
The Loving Comfort® line is comprised of Loving Comfort® Maternity Support, Mother-To Be® Maternity Support, Loving Comfort® Postpartum Support and Loving Comfort® Breast Binder. Each product is highlighted on a separate page on the site (www.maternitysupport.com) with detailed information on the unique features and benefits offered by each. Material from a clinical research study performed at the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine details the safety and efficacy of the Mother-To-Be® Maternity Support. Excerpts from the clinical study are included on the site as is information on where to locate the study in its entirety. As an added benefit, the Maternity Support site is bi-lingual with an option for Spanish-speaking visitors to view the product descriptions and purchasing information in Spanish. Links on this site allow visitors to view national retailers who carry the Loving Comfort! Maternity Support family of products as well as access other maternity-related web sites.

Postpartum/Caesarian Binder Is Ideal Support For New Moms
New mothers get some additional support with the Postpartum/Caesarian Binder, available from CMO Incorporated. Fabricated from a special elastic which is gentle on sensitive skin, this binder is lightweight and cool. The Postpartum/Caesarian Binder is perfect after any birth, especially Caesarian sections. It provides extra support for weakened, stretched abdominal muscles. The Postpartum/Caesarian Binder can help a woman return to her normal activities sooner. Available in three sizes based on pre-pregnancy waist size, the Postpartum/Caesarian Binder fits most women. Small fits a 24"-30" waist; medium fits a 32"-38" waist; large fits a 40"-46" waist.

Breast Binder Added To Loving Comfort Line
Loving Comfort Breast Binder is the latest addition to the Loving Comfort family of products. The product is designed for support while suppressing lactation. For non-nursing mothers or for mothers who are weaning their children, Loving Comfort® Breast Binder is a comfortable, effective method of suppressing lactation. The soft, latex-free elastic of the Loving Comfort¨ Breast Binder supports and soothes engorged breasts, hastening the drying process. The lightweight Loving Comfort¨ Breast Binder is easy to wear and simple to adjust without assistance. The binder fastens with Velcro™ and is worn comfortably tight.

For more information on products available from CMO Incorporated, visit our new web site at www.maternitysupport.com or call 800-344-0011

Prenatal Cradle releases new maternity apparel.

Our new MINI CRADLE provides abdominal and back support. Strong and comfortable support band has adjustable "no snag" closures.

 

The PRENATAL CRADLE PLUS combines supports the abdomen and back and reduces perineal swelling and vulvar varicosities.

 

The PRENATAL CRADLE supports the weight of pregnancy, yet does not restrict mother or baby. By easing painful symptoms of hip separation and pubic symphysis, the full torso support allows many expectant mothers to remain active through the third trimester.

 

The NATURAL EMBRACE super soft baby sling comfortably holds babies up to 35 lbs. It has a newborn "hammock" ingeniously built into its patented design. Easiest on and easiest in.

The V2 SUPPORTER gives clinically proven compression therapy for vulvar varicosities, perineal edema and uterine prolapse.

 

For more information on Prenatal Cradle, Inc. products visit www.prenatalcradle.com or call 1-800-607-3572.

Publications


Reach First-Time Expectant Parents—
Advertise in the Expectant Mother's Guide!


The Expectant Mother's Guide is a series of localized resource directories published annually for eight metropolitan areas in the United States. Each edition focuses on the needs of expectant parents in the area with informative articles written by local professionals and outlines various facilities and services available to them.

Copies of the Expectant Mother's Guide are distributed free-of-cost through obstetricians, hospitals, businesses and agencies associated with the arrival of a new baby. At least fifteen thousand (15,000) copies of each edition are printed, with distribution to this very targeted audience.

The Expectant Mother's Guide is produced for these metropolitan areas: Brooklyn, Chicago, Connecticut, Houston, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, St. Louis, and Northeast New Jersey.

For more information check us out on-line at: www.expectantmothersguide.com

Toys

Innovative BABY FOLKMANIS Line Makes First Toy Fair Appearance
First-ever line-up of puppets designed for use from birth

Entering its first full year of distribution, BABY FOLKMANIS“, will introduce eight new innovative puppets for the youngest toy users—beginning at birth—at the American International Toy Fair in New York, February 10-14. These will join the premiere 12 items that were in limited distribution in fall 2001. The imaginative new sub-brand caught the eyes of child development experts and toy tests, winning recognition from Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, Dr. Toy, Parenting, Parents, Child, Baby Talk, and more.

The spring 2002 new introductions include an amazingly innovative story-telling glove, a soft book, an eating group of animal puppets, and a super-soft collection of rattle puppets. These, along with the entire Baby Folkmanis line, are designed for interactive play between parent and child—beginning at birth. The unrivaled puppets have colors, textures, shapes, and sounds to stimulate infant and toddler development while entertaining little ones with whimsical characters, fun manipulatives, and hidden surprises.

“We knew we had filled a consumer need when the “My First Puppets” Soft Book sold out in stores nationwide,” says Judy Folkmanis, company founder and creative director. “We put many hours into creating puppets that would stimulate infant and toddler development while encouraging the children to have fun and stimulating a life-long love of puppets. And the child development experts agree, and have awarded Baby Folkmanis many honors.”
The wonderfully creative HEY DIDDLE DIDDLE Storytelling Glove Puppet takes the age-old nursery rhyme and gives it a totally unique platform. The soft fabric glove is designed to fit on either hand and is designed to emulate a glittery night sky. A moon flap is on the palm and, when lifted, a scroll with the words of the rhyme is revealed. The gloves of the fingers include a cat playing the fiddle, a jumping cow containing a hidden rattle, a laughing dog, and a dish running away with a spoon.

AGE APPROPRIATE: 6 months and up
AVAILABILITY: Spring 2002
SUGGESTED RETAIL PRICE: $20A grizzly bear, beluga whale, and piglet make up Baby Folkmanis’ innovative, new “eating” puppet collection. Each comes with one of its favorite foods that it can “eat” through a small hole in the puppet’s mouth. Delighting little ones, the chocolate brown EATING BEAR is made of super-soft chenille and comes with a pink-and-gray salmon finger puppet. A bright orange “scaly” fabric squid is the food of choice
that comes with the off-white chamois EATING WHALE. The black-and-pink chamois EATING PIG has his favorite ear of corn. Included with these puppets are stories designed to help the caregiver and child interact and talk about eating with questions such as “Do you have any teeth like the whale yet? Do you eat corn like the Piglet?”

AGE APPROPRIATE: 6 months and up
AVAILABILITY: Spring 2002
SUGGESTED RETAIL PRICES: Eating Bear—$20 ; Eating Whale—$16; Eating Pig—$18

BABY FOLKMANIS’ infant rattle puppets are adorable, full-bodied animals. Created in their “resting” position, their dangly legs are sprawled out in front of and behind them. These playful, chamois-fabric friends have rattles in their front feet, so that the puppeteer can elicit giggles and squeals of delight from babies when they animate and wiggle the legs. There is also a workable mouth on all three creatures: the brown-and-white spotted COW RATTLE, spotted LEOPARD RATTLE, and black-and-white ZEBRA RATTLE.

AGE APPROPRIATE: Birth and up
AVAILABILITY: Spring 2002
SUGGESTED RETAIL PRICES: $16

BABY FOLKMANIS® puppets are appropriate for all ages, birth and up, and are available at specialty toy and gift stores nationwide, and at select online retailers. FOLKMANIS® Puppets are recommended for ages 3 and up. You can also find Folkmanis® near you by checking www.folkmanis.com. For more information call SR Marketing at 925/932-7675.


Learning Curve International gives a fabulous new “face” and personality to the FeltKids premier brand of activity play.

The award-winning, well-loved FeltKids brand from Learning Curve International has put a new face on fun with a whole new look for 2002. FeltKids, the only felt brand asked for by name by both parents and children, now features more opportunities for fun, imaginative play. The all-new FeltKids have expressive faces that bring a whole new personality to this premier line of quiet-time, educational play. Created by a former schoolteacher, FeltKids provides learning opportunities in a mix and match play system to help children follow wherever their imaginations may lead them.

The all-new FeltKids FeltBoards and Story Pieces are all the inspiration needed for young girls to make endless stories for hours of imaginative fun. All FeltKids FeltBoards come complete with a story starter, detailed piece inventory and visual possibilities for two stories to help jump start young imaginations. And with a new handle for easy portability and a self-storage bag, it’s easy to make FeltKids the number one choice for fun-on-the-run. FeltKids make a great companion on any trip—whether by car, plane, train or bus.

FeltKids FeltBoards with Story Pieces
The foundation of the FeltKids line, these “all-inclusive” sets are sold complete with a FeltBoard and enough Story Pieces to inspire hours of creativity and fun. The FeltKids line for 2002 features a variety of strong girl themes including:
• Prima Ballerina—fanciful collection of tutus and glittery tiaras that transport young girls into the world of a Prima Ballerina
• Garden Tea Party—floppy hats, flowers and flowing dresses…what more do you need to create the idyllic tea party in an outdoor garden setting? It’s tea like the grown-up ladies do it!
• Birthday Girl—a great birthday gift for girls 3 and up!
• Beach Party—for summer fun all year long
• Wedding Day—what a wonderful flower girl gift to help commemorate her special day!
• And many more!
• Ages 3 and up.

Licensed FeltBoards with Story Pieces
Hello Kitty® Picnic Pals: Hello Kitty says “Hello, FeltKids!” Young girls are invited to make friends with Hello Kitty, the little white cat whose spirit of fun and friendship has been bringing smiles to millions of children for more than 25 years. The Hello Kitty Picnic Pals FeltBoard allows children to take Hello Kitty on a picnic and ride a bike in the sunshine and anywhere else their imaginations may lead them. Ages 3 and up.
Madeline‘ Paris Adventure & Happy Birthday FeltBoards: Everyone’s favorite little girl from Paris makes her way to FeltKids in two fabulously fun FeltBoard sets to help Madeline fans extend the adventures into quiet-time play! Ages 3 and up.
Thomas and Friends‘ FeltBoard: all aboard with the most beloved train engine—Thomas! Young engineers take Thomas and Friends on a railway adventure with this all-new FeltBoard. Ages 3 and up.

FeltKids Story Piece Sets
Brand new FeltKids Story Piece Sets extend the play of the FeltKids FeltBoards more than ever with add-on story themes. FeltKids Story Pieces come packed in the all-new Clip & Carry Tote handy storage pouch that features a special clip to help kids keep all the pieces together. Now kids can store their pieces, clip them to a FeltBoard handle or any other FeltKids product for easy storage and portability and it’s off they go to the world of make-believe and fairytales. Popular story themes include:
• Glamorous Dress-up
• Sleepover
• Fun Dress-up
• Sparkling Fairies
• Glittering Mermaids
• And several more!
• Ages 3 and up.Founded in 1993, Learning Curve has led the specialty toy industry with innovative, high-quality children’s brands that are developmental, wholesome, non-violent and encourage creative and imaginative play. The Learning Curve name is a hallmark of quality and the company backs every product with an unconditional Lifetime Guarantee.

Available at fine specialty toy, hobby, gift, department, school supply, book and museum stores, the Learning Curve family of brands includes: Lamaze“, the ultimate brand for babies; the Thomas and Friends‘ Wooden Railway System; the Madeline‘ brand of dressable rag dolls, vinyl dolls, clothing, accessories and doll house; the Eden“ brand of infant and preschool plush; the FELTKids“ Play System; the Small Miracles line of dress-up apparel and accessories and Lionel“ Battery-Powered Train System.

For more information, send e-mail to rcs@learningcurve.com, call (888) 281-1802 or visit the company’s consumer website at www.learningcurve.com.


Web sites

The Expectant Mother's Guide Gets a New Web site!
Come visit the new Expectant Mother's Guide web site at www.expectantmothersguide.com to check for pregnancy information and resources.

FirstBabymall.com
Manufacturers/Suppliers-
Establish a link to your homepage from this exciting new site.

Online Retailers/Catalog Companies-
Establish your presence on this cybermall.

Get details by visiting FirstBabymall.com or contact Debora Robertson at 412-531-9742 / deb@spindlepub.com