Bazzle Blog

As your baby turns into a little toddler, it’s amazing how much food they can consume. Sometimes I feel like all my 2-year-old does is eat! And when you are a foodie like me and can’t get your little one to enjoy eating the foods you like, it can be difficult to come up with new ideas for the whole family to enjoy. So, I asked other moms what their toddlers enjoy and put together some simple meal plans that have been helpful to encourage healthy eating for little ones.

Tips for feeding your toddler:

1. Always offer your toddler the same foods that the rest of the family eats and incorporate different tastes, textures, and colors.
2. It’s ok for them to use their hands and be messy. You want to keep this experience fun instead of worrying about the mess they will most likely make!

The Bazzle Baby Foodie Bibs are perfect for easy clean-up after a messy meal. It rolls up and buttons closed to contain mess and can be easily wiped cleaned or washed. This is a time to enjoy your kids and not worry about the mess! 

• Rolls up and buttons closed for easy clean-up and storage
• BPA-free with adjustable Velcro
• Stylish prints and colors
• Waterproof and stain-resistant
• Large pocket to catch mess
• Wipe clean or throw into the washing machine

3. Let your toddler decide how much food they will eat, never force them to eat or try to restrict the amount of food you offer them. Their appetite can change from day to day and you want to make mealtime a positive experience.
4. Start weaning your toddler to a regular cup if they are still using a bottle to avoid them consuming more liquids than foods.
5. Give your child whole/full fat milk until the age of 2 so they continue to receive the nutrients they need.
6. Stay on a schedule as much as possible by offering food at the same times each day.
7. Never leave your child alone while eating and make sure food is cut into bite size pieces to avoid choking hazards.

Mealtime is quality family time together. Letting them explore new foods and have fun while doing it, will allow them to work their way to becoming a mini foodie!

From ages 1 to 3 years, toddlers will start to eat more solids, giving you the perfect opportunity to develop healthy eating habits by exploring new foods. At times, mealtime can be challenging and start to feel like a battle. Get used to it, because this is something parents will continue to experience many times during this unpredictable toddler stage! Luckily, there are things you can do to help make this time fun and enjoyable for the whole family. Here are 6 tips from parents that we hope will help make food fun for you and your future mini foodie.

1. Let them be a mini sous chef

There’s no better way for a child to learn than with hands-on involvement. Kids love to see what you are doing, sometimes making it feel like you have a little shadow. The kitchen doesn’t have to be an exception to activities where kids can get involved. A new trend is a safe step stool that has a back for kids to safely stand next to you at the kitchen counter. My kid doesn’t like when he can’t see what I am doing, and this stool allows him to feel like he is part of the activity and gets him interested in the food I am preparing. As they learn new skills like stirring (without dropping it on the floor), you can let them take part in some of the cooking. This will allow them to learn new skills, which will in turn boost their maturity and confidence. Plus, you get an extra hand in the kitchen, it’s a win-win!

2. Using their fingers is ok

They are just tiny little humans learning a new world so it might take a little bit to master using a fork and spoon. Toddlers are exploring their independence and want to do things on their own, so serving foods that are easy to pick up can also make mealtimes less stressful for everyone. Try foods like pieces of bread, sliced bananas, steamed green beans and sliced chicken.  

The Bazzle Baby Foodie Bibs are perfect for easy clean-up after a messy meal. It rolls up and snaps closed to contain mess and can be easily wiped clean or washed. This is a time to enjoy your kids and not worry about the mess! 

• Rolls up and snaps closed for easy clean-up and storage
• BPA-free with adjustable Velcro
• Stylish prints and colors
• Waterproof and stain resistant
• Large pocket to catch mess
• Wipe clean or throw into the dishwasher

3. Add some color

Kids are very visual, and trying to get them to like something that is bland and boring in color can be difficult. Take advantage of fruits and vegetables that are beautifully colored and make use of all of the fun-colored serving trays that are available. Even if they don’t eat all of their colorful veggies, making sure they are served with meals and snacks will help kids get used to them being there and will eventually grow to develop a taste for healthy foods. 

4. Change it up

The more creative the meal is, the more likely kids will try it. Breakfast for dinner is a fun way to break up your routine and offer something different. You can also try switching up the environment by taking dinner outside on the patio. A new dinner atmosphere allows kids to get used to eating in different spaces and offers new things to look at so there is less fuss over the food in front of them.  

5. Dip it

If your child refuses to eat vegetables, try condiments like hummus or yogurt-based dressings. We’ve found that letting them dip it themselves gives them a sense of control and independence and will encourage them to try different things (even if it’s just to get another dip!).

6. Have fun

Out of all of the tips, this is the most important. Keeping mealtimes pleasant and relaxed will teach them how to behave at a dinner table and allow them to enjoy this quality family time together instead of resisting it. When your kids connect eating as a fun way to spend time together, they will be more inclined to working their way to becoming a mini foodie!

Pumpkin patches, costumes, and candy corn are Halloween staples for many kids and families. This Halloween, however, is a little different due to the COVID-19 pandemic. There are still many ways families can enjoy this holiday while keeping everyone safe and healthy. Here is our list Halloween ideas and activities for the whole family.

1. Spooky Movie Night in Your Backyard

There are lists of ideas and instructions to create your own movie screen for the perfect outdoor theater for the family to enjoy. Set up a blankets and a cozy setting on your lawn and relax with kid friendly Halloween movies  and your favorite Fall treats.

2. Make Halloween-themed treats

This activity includes a teaching element to develop children’s skills and leave lasting memories. Choose a favorite fall food (pumpkin pie anyone?) and make it with your little one. Teach them how to measure ingredients and read directions. They will feel proud eating the finished product.

The Bazzle Baby GoBib is perfect for easy clean-up after a messy baking lesson. It folds into itself to contain all the mess in a ball and can be easily wiped cleaned or washed. This is a time to enjoy your kids and this will make cleaning a little easier!

• Folds into itself for easy clean-up, just throw it into the washing machine!
• Soak-proof & easy to wipe clean
• Large pocket to catch mess
• Clips or hangs on stroller, diaper bag or lunchbox

3. Outdoor Pumpkin Patches & Events

What’s more Fall than a pumpkin patch? As long as you continue what you’ve been doing; avoiding crowded gatherings, keeping a distance of six feet, wearing cloth face coverings, and washing hands often, you can enjoy those outdoor Fall activities with your family.  

If you don’t have a facemask for you and your little one, check out the different Bazzle Baby Face Covering options for the whole family! If you are worried about your child removing the mask or it bothering their ears after extended periods of time, the Bazzle Baby Infinity Scarf Bib  sits close to baby’s chin all day and can easily transition from a scarf to a mask.  

• 100% double-layer cotton
• Snap closure to make dressing and undressing a breeze!
• Dual functionality by easily transitioning from a scarf to a mask
• Provides extra warmth during cool weather
• Machine washable

4. Virtual Halloween Costume Contest

Most of us have become extremely familiar with the different virtual video chat platforms available, so let’s use them for some fun this Halloween! Host an online party with friends and family so your little ones can still dress up and show off their costumes, carved pumpkins, and treats!   

5. Halloween Scavenger Hunt

Are your kids sad they can’t trick-or-treat around the neighborhood this year? Create your own inside your home! Create a scavenger hunt around your house to find candy and other Halloween themed surprises. To keep up traditions, have your family members shout “trick-or-treat” when they find a treat!  

We hope you all have a safe and HAPPY HALLOWEEN! 🎃

With kids starting to head back to school, there is an increase in concern for safety during the coronavirus pandemic. Luckily, most schools have detailed plans and guidelines in place to help, but there are things us parents can do as well. We have complied the following tips to enhance the procedures in place to help keep children safe.

Tip 1:

Practice, practice, practice! If you’ve had your kids stay home without venturing to grocery stores or other public places where masks are required, they probably haven’t had the opportunity to get used to wearing a mask. Take the time to practice proper mask wearing during extended periods of time before you expect them to wear it for an entire school day. Another important thing to continue to practice is proper hand washing. I know we’ve been bombarded with handwashing information, but that’s because it’s extremely important. Make regular hand washing part of your family routine so it's second nature to children when they return to their busy school-life. 

If you don’t have a facemask for you and your little one, check out the different Bazzle Baby Face Covering options for the whole family! If you are worried about your child removing the mask or it bothering their ears after extended periods of time, the Bazzle Baby Infinity Scarf Bib  sits close to baby’s chin all day and can easily transition from a scarf to a mask.  

• 100% double-layer cotton
• Snap closure to make dressing and undressing a breeze!
• Dual functionality by easily transitioning from a scarf to a mask
• Provides extra warmth during cool weather
• Machine washable

Tip 2:

Stay informed. It’s extremely important to be aware of school policies and procedures surrounding the virus. The CDC continues to offer new updates regarding COVID-19 back to school information. The CDC back to school checklist is a great tool to help parents prepare for this new normal.  

Tip 3:

Communicate. Encouraging open communication with your child will build their self-esteem and keep you both informed. If they are old enough to understand the current climate surrounding the coronavirus, make sure to talk about it instead of avoiding it. Parents aren’t the only ones who are feeling uncertain during this time, so make sure you are asking them how they feel and if they have any questions or concerns. Allowing children to discuss things openly will give you more insight on how safety protocols are being handled at school.

Tip 4:

Inform. Make sure to keep your child’s teacher and principal informed about any concerns you or your little one may be having. This will allow them to keep an extra eye on your child and keep you in the loop of how they are adjusting at school.

Tip 5:

Brown bag-it. While some schools may offer contact-free cafeteria food, it’s always safer to bring food from home. To keep germs from coming home with your little one, pack it in a disposal brown bag if possible. The cool new lunch box might have to wait.

It is important to continue to look to the expert’s advice and follow your instincts and comfort levels when sending your children back to school. Have open communication with your children and teachers about the safety precautions they are taking and how they are handling this new normal.

Feel free to share your tips in the comments below! 

STAY SAFE!

OXO – Bazzle Baby

From rolling to crawling to walking, your baby’s first steps are an exciting milestone you will remember forever! 

Around month 9 or 10, it will start with your little on learning how to pull themselves up to stand and then before you know it, they are taking their first steps to explore their surroundings! Just like everything else, every child is different, and most children won’t take their first steps on their own until months 12 to 14, but some may start as early as 7 months. It’s important to remember that it will happen when THEY are ready, but here are a few things you can do to help them.

• Bring on the applause!

Make it exciting by clapping your hands and giving your little one little cheers and big smiles. Most babies (especially ours) love to show off and get reactions from you so make sure to cheer on these big moments and let them know you are watching. This should be a fun time for all of you! 

• Offer support

Push toys gives your child the support and control they need to feel comfortable while working on balance and building muscle strength. You can also support them by simply holding their hands and slowly walking with them (it can just be a little more exhausting for you).

• No shoes, no problem!

Bare feet and flat surfaces are best when building muscle tone.   

• Make the destination appealing

What toys or snack does baby love? Give them something they want to go after and they will work even harder to get it! 

• Take lots of photos and videos!

I'm sure you already understand why everyone says "they grow up so fast!" and that's why you want to document these big moments before you blink and they are gone. Make sure to capture these moments so you can cherish them forever. 

Not sure when your little one will take those first steps? Be prepared to make your photos and videos insta-worthy with the trendy infinity scarf BandoBib that sits comfortably next to baby's chin and keeps clothes dry from drool!

• 100% double-layer cotton
• Snap closure to make dressing and undressing a breeze!
• Fashionable alternative to traditional drool bibs
• Machine washable

What toys or snack does baby love? Give them something they want to go after and they will work even harder to get it! 

It's important to remember that every child is different and they will walk when they are ready, but we hope these tips help you enjoy this learning and growing experience with them! 

Are you raising a Leo baby? Leo babies are born between July 23^rd and August 22^nd. Leo children are known to be the most dramatic of all the signs, but they’re also the most generous.

You little Leo is probably cheerful, fearless and confident, as they have huge lion-sized hearts and are natural born leaders.

Leo children have lots of energy to burn and are known to be very chatty. So keep them busy and entertained during the day if you want them to sleep at night! Your little Leo may like to be the boss and center of attention at all times, but they’ll also go out of their way to help their friends and loved ones (and you’ll certainly hear them roar if someone harms their friend!). That stubborn streak (hello tantrums!) is offset by their powerful and loving hugs – which they cannot get enough of and will dispense freely.

For the most part, Leo babies are generally known as an “easier” baby (lucky you!). Born with a natural independence, they are usually happy to be explore on their own and not need you to entertain them all the time.

The Bazzle Baby Infinity Scarf Bib will keep your little Leo in style and help to catch every drop of dribble so you can let them continue to explore by cutting down interruptions with outfit changes!

• 100% double-layer cotton
• Snap closure to make dressing and undressing a breeze!
• Fashionable alternative to traditional drool bibs
• Machine washable

You are one lucky parent to be raising an independent and generous Leo baby! 

There are endless baby products and lists of things to buy when you are expecting so you may be wondering, what breastfeeding accessories do I need and which ones can I do without? To help you decide, we’ve put together a list of the best breastfeeding accessories that we found most useful in helping us navigate this breastfeeding journey as first time moms.

First things first, a breastfeeding pillow is a must! It’s no surprise that giving birth to a tiny human can put a lot of stress on your body, especially your back. Getting a pillow or cushion that offers support for your back and arms will make it more comfortable for you and baby and allow your hands to be free to try different positions and make necessary adjustments to get baby to latch.

With breastfeeding comes sore or cracked nipples and leaking breast as your milk production tries to regulate to baby’s needs. Being prepared with a natural and organic nipple cream and washable or disposable disposable nursing pads will help make breastfeeding more comfortable and your shirts a little cleaner (minus the spit-up!)

If you plan to have a lot of visitors (because who doesn’t love a fresh baby!) you will probably want to be prepared with easy nursing tops, bras, dresses and an easy-to-use nursing cover. In the beginning you will need to feed on demand so having easy access without removing your entire top will eliminate extra work and having a nursing cover handy will make help keep you covered if that is more comfortable for you.   

The Bazzle Baby GoBlanket is super soft blanket has 4 integrated clips so you can attach it to any top or nursing bra of your choice. Plus, it doubles as we a stroller or carseat blanket that clips securely so will never have to worry about it becoming lost or dirty due to drops. Designed with a cotton designed front and a fuzzy fleece back to provide warmth and comfort for baby.

• Features 4 integrated clips to attach to tops, strollers, car seats and more.
• Soft cotton front
• Fuzzy fleece backing
• Machine washable 

Pro Tip: Don’t buy or register for a breast pump without trying your insurance first! You can see if you are eligible able to get breast pumps through insurance by providing your insurance coverage here. And make sure you learn how to use your pump and clean it ahead of time, preferably before baby is born!

In the beginning, breastfeeding can feel all-consuming. To avoid feeling overwhelmed by adding pumping in between breastfeeding sessions, we found that using a manual silicone breast pump on the breast that your child is not nursing on is a hassle-free way to save milk that might have been lost into your breast pads. They are so easy to use and are able to collect up to 4oz of milk at a time!

Another thing we didn’t expect was how thirsty and hungry breastfeeding makes you. If I didn’t have a bottle of water next to me while I was nursing, that meant it was time for my partner to wake up and get one! I took the big water jug they gave me in the hospital and kept that full in the baby’s room for nighttime feedings and another ready in the living room for daytime feedings. You are burning lots of calories so you will need to eat a lot! Keep healthy, easy-to-eat snacks available for a quick bite between nursing.  

The first few days and weeks are usually hectic, so it helps to be prepared. We hope these tips help make this experience enjoyable and it will get easier as you continue to bond and get into a routine. Just know that you got this, Mama!  

XO – Bazzle Baby Moms

We recently had a virtual meeting with 5 everyday moms in different parts of the United States to talk about what it’s like to raise children during a pandemic. It was surprising how similar our situations and experiences were in the beginning, and how we were able to find ways to adjust and feel comfortable in this “new normal”. Here are the top tips and takeaways from our conversation, we hope they are helpful!

Create a schedule

This was the biggest thing we all had to figure out and once we did, it was a game changer! It’s hard to navigate working and taking care of a little one, especially when you are used to them being at daycare or in school. Figuring out how to split the day and take turns so you both can work and also be attentive to your child’s needs, makes all of your lives a lot more pleasant.

Kids also crave a sense of order (even though they don’t always act like it). It’s more important now than ever to maintain bedtime and other daily routines. It gives kids a sense of reassurance during such an uncertain time. Even if you have to alter the routine a little due to virtual schooling and working from home, try to follow a general order so they know what to expect each day and you can avoid (most) breakdowns.

Get out of the house

We aren’t used to being cooped up in the house all day and this change can really start to wear on you. Fresh air and vitamin D are important and shouldn’t be avoided. Take some time each day to get outside, even if it’s just a long drive in the car with your little one, just crack the windows and let the air in! If your kids are like mine, naps in the car seem to last longer than most and will give you some time to clear your mind and listen to some music or your favorite podcast.

Keep your little one cozy on your car ride with the super soft Bazzle Baby GoBlanket ! This blanket features integrated clips so you will never have to worry about it becoming lost or dirty due to drops.

Take care of yourself

You have your hands full and you feel like you need to do everything, but that can become overwhelming and harmful on your mental health. Everyone (yourself included!) needs alone time every day. Take a walk, bath, or meditate with some calming music. Work with your partner or family members to take turns having alone time while the other watches the kids. We ALL need a break sometimes.   

It’s ok to have a few vices

You aren’t perfect, none of us are. Don’t feel guilty about having that second (or third) glass of wine or binging on your favorite shows and snack foods when you feel the need. It’s also ok to give in to allowing your little ones to watch movies or play video games more than usual. Just don’t forego the rules entirely and everyone will be just fine!

Finally, remember to take a breath and know that you are not alone. We got this!

The baby-led weaning trend is continuing to grow in the United States. It’s a way to offer natural and family-friendly way of serving solid foods – and skipping the purees all together. Here is what you need to know about baby-led weaning to see if it’s right for you and your baby.

In a nutshell, baby-led weaning typically starts at about 6 months of age and teaching kids to feed themselves. It’s one of the first steps towards your little one learning how to be independent and develop their hand-eye coordination, chewing skills, and healthy eating habits. 

Benefits of baby-led weaning:

• Allows baby to get familiar with different textures and flavors
• Self-regulation: baby is in control of the amount of food they eat
• Teaches them how to chew
• Develops hand-eye coordination
• Encourages family bonding by allowing them to dine with you
• Saves parents time – no blending, freezing and defrosting homemade purees

Downsides to baby-led weaning:

• It is very messy since it’s up to them to get the food into their mouths
• Baby may gag or choke on foods since they are just developing their oral skills
• They might not get enough iron since those foods are harder to chew on – ask your pediatrician about a supplement

First baby-led weaning foods:

• Start with single-ingredient foods so you know if any cause food allergies
• Soft foods: bananas and apples
• Steamed vegetables & fruits: zucchini, broccoli, apples
• Moist and shredded meats
• Small pieces or poached fish and pastas
• Food should be soft and easy to smash

The Bazzle Baby GoBib is perfect for easy clean-up after a messy baby-fed meal. It folds into itself to contain all the mess in a ball and can be easily wiped cleaned or washed. This is a time to enjoy watching your baby learn, so do what you can to make cleaning a little easier!

• Folds into itself for easy clean-up
• Clips or hangs on stroller, diaper bag or lunchbox
• Soak-proof & easy to wipe clean
• Large pocket to catch mess
• Machine Washable

Baby-led weaning safety tips:

• Never leave baby alone with food
• Baby should always be sitting up while eating
• Avoid hard foods like nuts, whole grapes, and cherries
• Stay calm and allow them to navigate eating without added pressures

Even though most babies will be fussy and irritable when teething, it is an exciting milestone in their development. Memories of those first two teeth and the smile that shows them off, is something that will leave lasting memories and THE most adorable photos.

Teething signs typically show up a month or two before the first tooth appears, and there are signs you can look for to know when that first tooth is near. Here are the top 6 signs your baby is teething. 

1. Increased Fussiness

As you can imagine, it can be painful when those little teeth rise closer to the surface. Baby’s gums may become sore which leads to increased fussiness and crying.

2.  So. Much. Drool!

Around 4 months of age, you might notice that your baby is starting to drool which is stimulated by their incoming teeth. As you know, every child is different so some babies may drool a lot (I mean a LOT) more than others.

Drool from teething doesn’t stand a chance with the Bazzle Baby Bandana Bib Teether for germ-free pain relief that is within arm’s reach for your little one.

• Natural teething pain relief
• BPA-free plastic teether
• Soft & absorbent cotton front
• Fleece backing won’t let moisture soak through
• Bacteria resistant
• Machine washable

3. Pulling at Ears

It might look as though your little one has an earache, but the pain in their gums can spread to the ears and cheeks. If the ear pulling is accompanied by a fever, check with your pediatrician to make sure it is not an ear infection or something else.

4. Putting EVERYTHING in their mouth

A teething baby will typically put just about anything in their mouth. Chewing makes them feel better by helping to relieve pressure on their gums.

This Bazzle Baby Teething Mitt provides safe and natural teething pain relief with a BPA free, bacteria resistant silicone teether. Your baby will love the mixed nubby textures and crinkly mitt for added cognitive stimulation and entertainment. It features a secure velcro strap to grow with your baby and prevent sliding or pulling off with self-relief at hand to help avoid chapping, spreading bacteria, and scratching.

• Natural teething pain relief
• BPA-free plastic teether
• Bacteria resistant
• Machine washable
• Crinkly mitt for added stimulation
• Velcro closure

5. Cold-like Symptoms

Some babies may experience low-grade fevers, runny noses, or coughing while teething.  Notify your pediatrician if baby’s temperature rises above 102 degrees Fahrenheit.

6. Sleep Regression

You’ve finally reached the point where baby sleeps through the night, Hallelujah! Now, all the sudden your child is waking up crying or fussing. No need to worry, it’s likely due to teething or a growth spurt, this is just temporary.

You got this mama! xoxo

One question we are asking ourselves, along with the 267 others during COVID-19 quarantine, is when can kids can play together again? Being stuck in the house the past few months is causing many kids (and parents) to go stir-crazy and miss social interactions with friends.  

Now more than ever, parents are faced with hard decisions about what children can and cannot do. With no official guidelines and states operating differently in every part of the country, there is no easy answer.

It is important to continue to look to the expert’s advice and follow your instincts and comfort levels with the families you chose to be around. Have open communication with families about the precautions they are taking and how they are explaining about the Coronavirus to their children. It is helpful if both families are relaying similar information to ensure the same rules and guidelines are in place.

Here are the best tips we have received from experts:

• Socialize outdoors
• Keep groups small
• Maintain social distancing
• Sanitize hands, toys, and shared surfaces
• Wear face coverings

Being stuck in the house the past few months will make this time outside with friends even more special. Organize a day at the park to for some much-needed social interaction and release kids’ energy (because we know they have a lot of it!). Remember to enforce handwashing, hand sanitizer, safe distances, and the use of face masks.

If you don’t have a facemask for you and your little one, check out Bazzle Baby Handmade Face Masks for the whole family! If you are worried about your child removing the mask, the Bazzle Baby Infinity Scarf Bib  sits close to baby’s chin all day and can easily transition from a scarf to a mask.  

• 100% double-layer cotton
• Snap closure to make dressing and undressing a breeze!
• Fashionable alternative to traditional drool bibs
• Additional functionality by transitioning from scarf mask
• Machine washable

Finally, it is important to remember that every parenting style is different. You should remain mindful in respecting differences in opinion as some parents are more restrictive than others. Things will get back to normal soon (we hope!).

Are you raising a Cancerian baby? Cancer babies are born between June 21 and July 22. Cancers are known to be super-sensitive as they are ruled by the Moon – going through many phases in their moods. Like the crab, they can be clingy (or even pinch!) when feeling insecure or upset and will love to be swaddled or cuddled for comfort.

Your Cancer kiddo is super-loyal and will be a caring big brother or sister, as well as a devoted partner and parent one day – they may even ‘mother’ you sometimes. The mother-child bond is usually quite strong with baby crabs. They also make great pet owners and love to help around the house.

Their nurturing and intuitive nature means that they sense a lot from the body language and moods of their friends – some even say their Cancer friends are quite psychic! This can leave them feeling overstimulated or even introverted, so regular ‘downtime’ and helping them express their inner feelings is important for your little crab. Cancer babes love to feel secure and protected, enjoying comforting things like a favorite book or movie on repeat, and special ‘one-on-one’ time with their parents and friends.

Cuddling is key! Your little one will find great comfort in being next to their parents. Cuddle up on the couch with your Cancer baby in the super soft Bazzle Baby GoBlanket ! This blanket features integrated clips so you will never have to worry about it becoming lost or dirty due to drops. Designed with a cotton designed front and a fuzzy fleece back to provide warmth and comfort for parents and baby.

You are one lucky parent to be raising a nurturing and empathetic Cancerian baby!