Sunday, November 30, 2008

v 4 issue 18: Winter Shopping Guide

tot trends weekly

Our Winter Shopping Guide is here. Full of gifts, great designer clothing, fabulous boutiques and even a little something for Mom. Shop for your holiday gifts in our guide full of exclusive discounts!


Cover by Ruthi David






tot trends weekly

1 Em Tanner Designs is popping up everywhere with stylish lunchboxes and Tee's that are personalized in an artistic way that is unique and fun. Now your child can tell his favorite teacher how much he/she ROCKS with a personalized teachers plate just in time for the Holidays. Hurry you must have your orders in by December 1st to guarantee Christmas delivery on these fantastic plates!
Enter code: FALALA to receive 20% off your total order

2 The Polkadot Platypus specializes in designer apparel, stylish gear, posh bedding and unique gifts. Whether you need a unique baby shower gift, designer diaper bag or your just in the market for designer baby clothes, at The Polkadot Platypus you're sure to find something special.
Enter code: TTW15 to receive 15% off your total order

3 At Posh Tots you'll find stylish high-quality clothing, accessories, toys and gifts as well as baby furniture including baby cribs, nursery gliders and chairs, bassinets, cradles, changing tables and highchairs. Primarily for infants to children six years of age. Unique finds from designers around the world. Shop by themes or use their directory to find just what you are looking for.
Receive $100 off orders of $750 or more

4 At Tiny Prints you will find unique photo birth announcements, baby shower invitations, birthday Invitations and other fine stationery. Find festive and thoughtful ways to convey special occasions to family, friends and loved ones with their large selection. Tiny Prints finds great joy in helping our customers discover the perfect card that will leave a lasting impression.
Enter code: TT2008 to receive 10% off your total order

Click here to shop our Winter Shopping Guide


Be sure to check out all our wonderful shops for gifts, great designer clothing, fabulous boutiques and even a little something for mom. Click on covers to start shopping. Don't forget to use shop coupon codes for exclusive discounts.

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Products above (clockwise):
Tea Party Dress,Children's Tea Set,Cocoa Cabana Collection,Dutchy shoulder bag.

Sunday, November 23, 2008

v 4 issue 17: Holiday Gifts

tot trends weekly

The Holiday gift-giving season is upon us...and so is the worry about what to buy. Our gift-giving issue is full of the best gifts to give for all ages and all price ranges.

Cover by Cover Jodie Goodison









tot trends weekly

1 Sweet patterns with a little personalization make this Doodlebugz Doodlebag at 2sweetsisters.com a great choice this holiday season. Comes with a paper pad, mini chalk board, crayons, & chalk...all neatly stored for future creative expression.

2 Cardboard boxes are even more fun than you remember... when it's a Color Me House. Easy to assemble with a pure white surface for a superior painting/decorating canvas.

3 Toys at Fatbraintoys are good for their brain and way cool too. Dado Cubes added a simple twist to classic building blocks, and in return, created intelligent blocks with unlimited possibilities.

4 This Crayon Caddy found @ Alex Casey Baby is the perfect organizer for toting arts & crafts around the house. Four adorable designs to choose from, each with a color coordinating crayon shaped handle.
Enter code:TTW5 for 15% off all orders through 12/31/08

5 The Plug & Pile Royal Tower is a great choice for beginner builders. Seven blocks with round pegs, stack on top of each other for some royally fun construction. Oompa.com

6 Squishing and hugging this Moonman makes him light up and sing with joy. Comes with a bedtime book and tons of love for only $19.99! Start your collection of Nanastar and friends today.

7 Get them thinking with this Quadrino arranging game at maukilo.com. 24 pieces of varying heights and shapes can be arranged and rearranged into colorful patterns for long lasting fun.

8 A melting pot of PBS favorites come together to celebrate the season. Join in on the fun as Thomas, Fireman Sam, Bob the Builder...embark on adventures of Snowy Days. lionsgateshop.com

9 Stay clean, save green. Shirts stay stain-free with this hip version of the play smock from Bella Tunno.

10 Another great toy from Oompa.com. Cheekeyes are handcrafted toys made of quality wood with safety in mind. The forest animals playset comes with a bison, a wild boar, wolf, goat, and a grizzly bear. Grrrrreat at stirring the imagination for hours of open ended play.

11 Imaginations soar with this Secret Pocket Princess Cape. Pink and purple satin with a clear pocket on the back (for displaying a personal crest...) and green pockets on the inside for storing secret stash. Soar to myprincesscloset.com for this fun cape.

12 A What's a Dragon Art & Activity Backpack is sturdy, lightweight, & easy to clean. Comes with all the trimmings: a storybook, doodle pad, activity book, and markers. littlejetset.com

13 Pint-sized Zoobie fun for tots. Baby Mashaka is a mini Zoobie who transforms from a monkey into a blankie with a super soft comfy corner.

14 $9.95 gets you this unique and helpful gift. Glo the Jellyfish adorns Mini Mitts which help toddlers make a splash at learning to wash up all on their wn. shopbellylaf.com

15 The holidays never smelled so good. Strawberry Shortcake's Holiday Dreams Collection is here to inspire the dreams of your youngster's holiday season for years to come.



Gifts for the family
tot trends weekly Custom Creations Unlimited

Every item they offer is custom made just for you. Each image is hand reviewed to be sure it will turn out beautiful. Many items include a free proof prior to production. This includes all their Photo Blankets and Photo Beach Towels. Place our order by December 12th to insure Christmas delivery.
Use code: shipping22 to receive free shipping





tot trends weekly
Joli Bebe Organic
Buy it for yourself or a gift. These organic pieces are made of 50% Organic Cotton - 50% SoyFabric which produces superiority that stands on its own with unbeatable softness. We love this flattering criss-cross yoga tank with hidden shelf bra for nursing access. Match it with the yoga pants and you have pure comfort while at the gym or lounging around the house.
Use code: holiday to receive 30% off your entire purchase!



tot trends weekly Alex Casey Baby
Gift for Dad- The slide tote bag was designed with Dad's in mind. They are stylish, versatile, and best of all, comfortable to carry. The ergonomic strap spreads the weight of the bag across your back and shoulders. Our favorite feature is the fully-lined bottle pockets that make reaching for a quick drink a snap!

This bag is not just for Dad, treat yourself to one as well. Great for workout gear, with yoga mat strap and plenty of room for sneakers and more. Will also fit a 14" laptop - great for a work/school bag as well. Now that is versatility for $95!
Enter code:TTW5 for 15% off all orders through 12/31/08


Making Homemade Christmas Cards with Your Child
One of the best ways to teach your children the true meaning of the holidays is to start a family tradition of making homemade gifts. You can start with your children when they are young helping them to make special homemade Christmas gifts for family and friends.

One of the simplest homemade gifts to give family members is homemade Christmas cards. This hand made keepsakes will be kept for many years to come by the lucky people that receive them. This craft is simple enough to do with even the youngest of children.

To make homemade Christmas cards, it is best to have all of your supplies gathered in a central location before hand. Keep a plastic container full of all sorts of craft goodies that the children can use to personalize the Christmas cards that they send. Some of the items that you can include in this box are glitter, stickers, buttons, and ribbons. There are many more things that you can include, the sky is the limit.

Print out current pictures of your children on the computer to use for the homemade Christmas cards. If you do not have a printer to do this on, you can have it done at your local store with a photo mat. Family and friends love to see updated pictures of the children so make sure each card has one on it.

Allow your child to choose whatever color of construction paper that he wants to make the Christmas cards. Just because you think it should be red and green, it does not mean that he does. This is his special homemade gift to his loved ones and he should get to choose the colors.

Fold the paper over to form the Christmas card. Now comes the fun part, the two of you get to decorate the card for the person that will be receiving it. It is often best to decide where the photo will be attached to the card. Both the outside and the inside are great places to put the photo on the Christmas card.

You can help your child cut out little boxes and Christmas trees and ornaments to adorn his special card. If your child is not yet ready to tackle the scissors, you can have these shapes cut out in advance so that all he has to do is glue them on. Allow your child to place the shapes in whatever pattern that he likes.

Help your child to write a heart felt Christmas note to the person that he is sending the card to. It is best to help him personalize each little note to the recipient. Make sure that your child signs his name at the bottom of the note, even it is just a scribble.

Finish the card off with some of the special craft items that you have in your box for him. Now would be the time to add ribbon and or glitter to this special homemade Christmas card.

Think of the joy that this will bring your child year after year when you bring out supplies to make the family Christmas Cards. As they get older the creativity is the limit!

tot trends weeklyMy son and I have chosen our family tradition to be Christmas tree ornaments. Every year since he was 2 we have made these for all the family members. It is always fun and each one is so unique. My favorite part is watching his face light up while he watches each gift be opened by those he loves.

Sunday, November 16, 2008

v 4 issue 16: Mommy and Me

tot trends weekly


She want to be just like Mom and we have found some fantastic items that you both will love!


Cover by Kristin Cook








tot trends weekly

1 Tangerine, pink, and clay play together nicely in these coordinating Mom/daughter aprons. With the entertaining season upon us, what better way to inspire the little helper within to come out and lend a helping hand. We love the twist Progeny Inc. puts on the old apron classics.

2 A beautiful gift for Moms and babies would be a matching pair of bracelets from Emmie Kate. Emmie Kate offers a number of gorgeous sterling silver bracelets in baby, child, and adult sizes. Pick from a number of quality pre-designed pieces or add a personalized engraving for a special keepsake piece.

3 Happiness is in the air at peacelovemom.com! Matching pink tees help show the collective relationship between happy Moms and babies. Super soft on skin and super high on the cuteness scale.

4 Whether you are lucky enough to live in a warm weather climate year round or you need some new duds for a vacation, this is the perfect matching pair for Moms and little girls. Visit MommaOm to pick up these one-of-a-kind bikinis, full of funk and flair. The Flor di Cherry designs mix up vibrant hues of red and blue with natural tones of cream and brown for a well-balanced color palette.
Enter Code:Tots for 20% off your total purchase

5 EMTanner Designs has done it again. This time they've come up with some great new Mommy and Me designs. Spunky fonts and simply sweet designs are aplenty at this fabulous shop! Check it out.

6 Ultra-luxurious comfort is all yours at Max Daniel Co. These swanky soft blankets and throws are favorites of the stars, and we can see why. The prints are spectacular and the softness is exquisite. We are particularly fond of the snow leopard print, but any one will surely tickle the fancy of the girls in the family!

7 Now, well-loved dolls and stuffed animals can also enjoy the benefits of baby wearing! SlingEZee makes a doll-sized sling for children to emulate Mom's caring carrying. New and improved, these slings have an increased ability to adjust and extra padded comfort.


This weeks mom tips
tot trends weeklyHoliday Green tip #1:

Holiday Green tip #1:
No-Waste Gift Wrapping
1. Canvas shopping bags make great gift bags for any gift. Two gifts for one!
Clairebella Bellabags are 100% cotton and have plenty of room for even the largest of gifts.
2. For the sewing enthusiast, wrap a gift in a fabric remnant and tie it with a piece of lace or ribbon.
3. Any kitchen gift can be wrapped in a colorful dish towel. Kitchen utensils can pop out of an oven mitt.
4.Place home-baked cookies in a reusable tin box or a decorated oatmeal box.
5. Wrap tools for a gardener in the pocket of an apron, planter, or bucket.
6. Search for interesting old boxes that can be used as decorative packages.
7. For a reader, wrap a book in a reusable canvas shopping sack.

Holiday Green tip #2: When it comes to trees, you have plenty of beautiful options. With live trees you can have a tree to enjoy year-round. Ask your local nursery which trees grow best in your area. Artificial Christmas trees are cost effective and they can be reused year after year. Cut trees are beautiful. But be sure to have yours composted instead of sending it to a landfill.

Financial Tip: Watch the grocery sales fliers and stock up on necessary items. You can often find turkey, ham, stuffing, nuts, canned pumpkin etc. at exceptionally low prices this time of year. Calculate what you will need and stock up while it is on sale.

Time Saving Tip: Wrap as you go. Don’t put all of your wrapping off until the last minute. As you pick things up, go ahead and wrap them as soon as you get a chance. It helps to have a dedicated wrapping area set aside that is well-stocked with all the essentials – wrapping paper, scissors, gift tags, tape, etc. Note: You may want to keep a list of what you bought and for whom so that you will not forget what you wrapped.


How to deal with a picky eater during the holidays
tot trends weeklyIt's exciting when your toddler starts eating solid foods. You get to introduce her to lots of new things. There will be foods she likes and ones that she doesn't. But many toddlers develop an aversion to new foods or only want to eat one certain food at every meal. This often happens around the infamous "terrible twos." Some parents fear that their child will not get proper nutrition if they are picky eaters.

What many parents don't realize is that toddlers do not need to eat as much as you might think. Growth slows down around two years of age, often resulting in a decrease in appetite. So your active two year old might fill up with just a few bites.

A lack of fruits and vegetables in the diet is also a source of concern for lots of parents. These food groups are trouble spots for many toddlers, and they do contain lots of healthy nutrients. But as long as the child is growing normally, there is usually no need to worry.

Make mealtime pleasant with conversational topics that engage your child. When food is appetizing and conversation is fun, children will be more likely to eat which means less tension on the child and parents.

Take comfort in the fact that picky eating is usually a phase that your child will outgrow.

This Thanksgiving add a few unique items to the menu that you are certain your picky eater will enjoy. This way everyone is eating and happy. Now that is something to be thankful for!

Most children love bread. Why not try Sweet Potato Biscuits. I have a feeling even your picky eater will enjoy these as well as the rest of your guests (see recipe below).

Doesn’t everyone love macaroni and cheese? Why not serve it as a side dish with your Holiday dinner. You can stick with your child’s favorite brand or a homemade version.

Sweet Potato Biscuits
Makes 16 biscuits

Ingredients:
2 to 3 medium sweet potatoes (about 1 1/2 pounds)
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into chunks
2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
2 tablespoons white sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ginger
1 1/2 cups flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

Heat oven to 400. Scrub sweet potatoes, prick them in several places with a fork, and microwave them until tender, at least 10 minutes. Carefully slice them in half, scoop the hot flesh from the skins, and add to a mixing bowl along with the butter. Using an electric mixer, whip together potatoes and butter until well combined, about 2 minutes. Beat in sugars, salt, and spices. Let the mixture cool for 15 minutes.

Meanwhile stir together flour and baking powder in a medium bowl with a fork. Add flour mixture to potato mixture and use the fork to combine well. You may have to knead the dough by hand a bit at the end. On a floured surface, roll out or pat the dough into an 8-by-8-inch square about 3/4 inch thick. With a sharp knife or square biscuit cutter dipped in flour, cut out 2-inch square biscuits. (Making them square means you can use all the dough in one go, rather than rerolling it.)

Place the dough squares 2 inches apart on a baking sheet that has been greased or lined with parchment. Bake until they're golden brown on the bottom and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean, about 15 to 20 minutes.

Recipe source: wondertime.com

Sunday, November 09, 2008

v 4 issue 15: Entertaining is Elemental

tot trends weekly

This issue is full of all your little ones needs to entertain in style from fancy dress up cloths and shoes to fantastic card companies, we have it covered. As well as something special for Mom!


Cover by Heather Berkenstock







tot trends weekly

1 The possibilities of the Emily pearl necklace and bracelet set are endless. All genuine freshwater white pearls are hand-knotted and secured with a sterling silver filigree clasp, then packaged in Belle Pearl's signature packing. Makes a great party gift or accessory.

2 Georgie World has put together an outfit to have tots spiffed up in no time. The Grandpa sweater covers up a crisp white shirt, and matches perfectly with the cammer trousers. Look no further, all elements of style for boys are factored into this one outfit for the low price of $89!

3 Whether you have a fancy Nancy or a dancing queen, the microfiber leggings from BonBon Cupcakes are a delight. The black leggings with a leopard ruffle are snazzied up with rhinestones to add a little zing. Packaged to look like a cupcake in a clear bakery box...yum!

4 Little tykes will look swell in the buckaroo shirt from Bobinette- the makers of fine baby accessories and clothing. Green polka dots are accompanied by blue denim shoulders for a rugged look with a shout of playfulness. Gussy up boys for entertaining in a shirt that makes sense.

5 Classic style and lasting comfort contribute to the outstanding quality of Pediped Footwear. The seal of approval from the American Pediatric Medical Association proves these shoes are a smart, sensible purchase. We forecast these chocolate brown penny loafers to be a durable asset to any footwear collection for the upcoming entertaining season.

6 Soft crib shoes with an attitude! These Heelarious high heeled impersonators conger up a vision of Miss Piggy in designer shoes (that is meant in a great way). Made for 0-6 month olds, a perfect age because party-goers will least expect the surprise of uncontrollable laughter to be the result of a 3 month old prankster's shoes.

7 Dazzle everyone with the quality and unique design of this tangerine velvet dress from rabbit moon. A drop waist dress is bottomed off with a two tiered ruffle. Hand knotted yarn dots tickle the tops of puffed shoulders and a pink velvet ribbon adds a touch of class. The editor's blog will elaborate on the details of this pretty little number.

8 Rachel on the Flower is the maker of "the original pettidress". This fabulous tutu pettidress is just one example of the fine craftsmanship that goes into every custom made order. Get the details on this high fashion treat in the editor's blog and find out why no special occasion is complete without this high fashion treat.


The Paper Patch
Looking for that special personalized party cards, thank you cards, or just fun stationary? Here are a few of our favorites...

tot trends weekly Tiny Prints- Discover contemporary party invitations, birthday party invitations and party cards for your whole family.
Enter code: TT2008 for a 10% off your total purchase.

tot trends weeklyCouture Invito offers a unique line of custom invitations and stationery. If you don't see what you are looking for on their site, they will custom design a card for you. We adore their kids stationary and photo envelopes!
Enter code: TTWfall2008 for a 10% off your total purchase.

tot trends weekly In a Baby Carriage designs range from modern to classic, simple or fun. Find a design to match your individual style!
Enter code: TTW for a 10% off your total purchase.


tot trends weekly Mango Ink is a Husband and Wife card company offering birthday cards with style! We love their unique designs and we are sure you will too. They are truly sweet!


tot trends weekly 1st Comes Love Specializes in creating one-of-a-kind invitations for one-of-a-kind events. You will love their pop-off the card embellishments!
Enter code: TTW08 for a 15% off your total purchase.

tot trends weekly Fin and Roe.com photo correspondence is your one-stop shop for high-end photo cards. Create custom invitations to fit your specific needs. We adore their Mommy Calling Cards!
Enter code: TOTTRENDS for 10% off entire purchase. Exp: 12/15/08

tot trends weekly Sweetbeets Is an Eco-friendly company using letterpress printed in Canada on 100% post-consumer recycled paper. Vintage printing press produces a crisp impression that you can see and feel.
Enter code: tottrends08 for 20% off your total order! Expires 11/30/08 Enter code in message to seller during checkout to receive a refund via PayPal.

tot trends weekly Paper Locket creates sassy, unique and chic invitations as well as Personalized Wall Art using your favorite photos
Enter code: trends08 for 20% off your holiday card order


tot trends weekly A Touch Of Whimsy is a great place for unique, personalized stationery with a whimsical flair. Oodles of personalized gifts from recipe cards, excuse notes to calling cards.
Enter code: trend15 for 15% off your entire order. Expires 1/15/09

tot trends weeklySimple Salutations- Two sisters own and run this fantastic card company that is Artistic, Fun and Affordable!
Enter code: tottrends for 15% off your entire purchase.


tot trends weekly Be Creative is bringing back the art of hand written correspondences with simple, modern, and elegant designs. We adore their favor tags!
Enter Code: TOTBOGO08 to Buy one get one FREE (equal or less value). Contact shop owner first- Expires 12/5/08.

tot trends weeklyLe Papier Studio has custom invitations for all your events. Their custom silhouette artwork for little ones is superb! They will even create one of a kind pieces if you ask.
Enter Code: SHOPHOLIDAY for %10 off your entire purchase.

tot trends weekly Nella Designs offers handcrafted, custom paper goods perfect for every occasion. Our favorite- their personalizes dog stickers for envelopes.
Free gift with purchase. At checkout enter as seen in TTW.


Showcase: The Fine Art Of Family
tot trends weekly Think back to your favorite gift. It was likely not the most expensive or extravagant. Chances are it was personal and heartfelt like a photo of a loved one. That’s the concept behind The Fine Art of Family, a collection of distinctive lockets and image case jewelry and gifts created by professional photographer and designer Monica Rich Kosann.

tot trends weekly
TheFineArtofFamily.com features vintage-inspired Sterling Silver and 18K Gold pieces so mothers can treasure their favorite memories in a modern day heirloom. They are made to be permanent, a family treasure to be passed on to the next generation. From traditional two-picture locket necklaces detailed with Monica’s signature floral pattern to a single photo charm hanging from a silk cord to coin bracelets that can hold multiple photos, there is a style for every woman who believes that family is always in fashion.

tot trends weekly

The site also showcases a wonderful selection of Sterling Silver gifts organized by Him, Her and Home, so you can easily find a thoughtful gift for parents, husbands or friends.


Visit this lovely site, full of beautiful photography, lockets and image case jewelry and gifts, and receive free ground shipping through November 30 with code TTW1108.

Sunday, November 02, 2008

v 4 issue 14: Furry Friends

tot trends weekly


We have chosen some fun items that will have your little ones showing off their love for four-legged tail-waggers. Is your child ready for a Doggie of their own? Check out our list of best dogs for toddlers.


Cover by Shalla Melton





tot trends weekly

1 Fabio longs for a sibling's companionship, and when it finally arrives...he's a little disappointed. Nonetheless, the whimsical pictures and rhymes of this delightful story continue on to teach us family, love, and friends come in all shapes and sizes. Find this heart-warming story written by Gillian Johnson @ tundrabooks.com for only $16.95

2 Karen Eileen Designs definitely added the whimsy factor to this tee. You can't help but giggle when you see this pooper of a dog. Fun, as always, Karen Eileen brings old-fashioned flair to all her products.

3 Who couldn't love a face like this? Mini-London is a cuddly polka-dot pooch from the expert knitters of blabla. White with gray and black spots, he's made of all natural fibers sown, grown and knitted in Peru.

4 Oink? That's right. Chirp Daddy shirts seems to pay homage to the misfit animals of the world, and we like it! The dog shirt and it's matching lunchbox are equally fantastic. And, considering you get two great products for the price of $32.-, you just can't lose.

5 Smart-e-dog is the interactive cuddly companion designed with fun and education in mind. With a quick connection to the internet, kids and parents can add new games, songs, and stories for ever-changing fun. A super upgrade from good 'ole Teddy Ruxpin.

6 Colette Kids has a knack for creating eye-pleasing graphic designs both girls and boys can enjoy. Rufus, a sweet version of man's best friend, happens to be our favorite. Just remember, you're getting a whole lotta love with this shirt, since each one is screen-printed by hand.

7 The quality of this boy's make noise canvas print has us barking with joy. It's an original, as is all the artwork you'll find at Kelly B. Rightsell. Sure to add a sparkle of fun to any child's room.

8 Follow Mo's Nose through the pages of a great little story with an even greater trick up it's sleeve. With press-2-smell technology, readers can actually smell what Mo the dog smells. A wonderful story inspired by the love of a rescue dog.


This weeks mom tips:
tot trends weekly
Financial Tip:
Installing an insulating jacket around your water heater and pipes can result in savings, as can turning the temperature of your water heater down to 110-120 degrees (no need to run it hotter).




Green Tip:
Have a plugged or slow-draining sink? Search a hardware store's plumbing shelves for a bacteria-based product. Its goal is to establish colonies of goop-eating, human-friendly bacteria that are supposed to keep drainpipes clear. To allow the critters time to establish themselves, pour in a little just before bedtime, after everyone has quit using the sinks.

Time Saving Tip:
This game is perfect for families with young kids. If the parents always pick up the toys, dirty laundry, etc. the kids will never learn how to do these tasks on their own. Instead, set a timer for 10 minutes. Have the kids run around picking up their things and putting them away. If they get everything done by the time the timer sounds, they win small prizes, such as being able to choose that afternoon's video to watch, or baking cookies with mom, or something else fun and enticing.

Organizing Tips:
Gels, sprays, curlers, combs and hair dryers take up a lot of space in the bathroom. For quick organization, buy a plastic tub for under the sink and load it up with your supplies.


Thinking about bringing a dog into your family?
Bringing a dog into a family is a great way to add fun and excitement to life. Having small children means that you have to take special care when choosing the dog for your family.

Choosing the right dog for your family and toddler is kind of like finding the missing piece of the puzzle. There are many pieces that may go with the overall look, but there will be one perfect fit. Looking at the general characteristics of a breed is a good starting point. As important as the breed characteristics, however, are the individual dog's bloodlines, health and temperament.

The Top 5 Dog Breeds for Families with Toddlers:

Number Five-
The golden retriever is one of the favorite dog breeds out there. They are a great type of dog for a family with young children. Their personality is one that is full of patience.

Number Four-
Labrador retrievers are lovable dogs that will make a great addition to your family. These dogs have a sweet temperament. They are playful and very smart. This helps them to be very protective of the family and children that they belong to.

Number Three-
The Newfoundland is surprisingly a good dog for families with small children. This giant is as gentle as a lamb. Teach your toddler at a young age to be respectful of the where the dog is and this breed of dog will be a great new family member.

Number Two-
The Collie was TV’s answer to the ultimate family dog. These wonderful family dogs are very protective of the family that they live with. They are also very intelligent. Think of Lassie saving Timmy from the well. Your Collie may not be that heroic, but the love that it will give your family will set it in a class all by itself.

Number One-
The Brittany Spaniel is a medium dog with a big heart. These dogs are intelligent and full of energy. The nice thing about their size is that they are easily handled and trained.

When you are out looking for that perfect fit, think about pet adoption. Home4theHolidays specializes in pet adoption.

By looking into adoption, you will be helping out a dog that is in need of a loving home. One of the worse places to look for that perfect fit for your family is the puppy mills. These places breed dogs that are mistreated and often sold to unsuspecting families sick. Beware- some pet stores buy from puppy mills.
If you are looking for a full breed dog check out reputable breeders. Ask for references!

Sent in by one of our Tot Trends Readers:
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We want to see your adorable tots with their pets! We will post them in the next few weeks. (Please be sure to send web sized files) contact@tottrendsweekly.com