The upstart media biz was founded by two moms who needed tools for navigating everything from sibling rivalry to sticky feelings. To that end, they assembled a team of experts (Dr. Faith Rogow and parenting guru Betsy Brown Braun, to name two) to answer their questions (and yours). The website is the hub for Q&A, thoughtful essays, and video clips.
To find out more, go to themotherco.com.
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Brought to you by ex-Microsoft whizzes, this free web tool is a mini command central for the fam. It’s got communally visible calendars for every player; it also lets you delegate tasks and send calendar updates by e-mail or text.
Available at cozi.com.
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DailyCandy L.A. Kids editor Jaime Morrison Curtis’s book is a collection of observations, advice, art, and poetry that began as a blog and a way to channel Curtis’s postpartum energy into something productive. A mix of practical information, thought-starters, and simple suggestions, the 500 nuggets are reminders about the type of women we strive to be and the type of women we want to raise.
Available at amazon.com, $10.
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This framed panel lets kids tackle their morning routines (ugh) in a fun way. Simply place magnets (included) next to eight pictures that represent things to do before school and slide them over as each one is completed.
Available at tellychicago.com, $38.
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The folks behind the beloved paper planners have turned their thoughtful design into an app. With multiple calendar views (month, week, day), separate accounts for all the kids, and an automatic notification system that shoots off text reminders (to your kids, your spouse, even yourself), you’ll never again utter the words I’m sorry, I totally forgot.
Available at itunes.apple.com, $5.
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Set a good example for your little ones: Put a pint-size home gym next to your own. The First Fitness collection by Aqua Leisure is sure to set any youngster on the right track. Products include a child-powered exercise bike, jump rope with digital counter, and a dumbbell set.
Available at amazon.com, $11-$90.
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Search for local playgroups to join or form your own mommy group on a private channel. Plan events, post pictures, ask your new mom friends questions about tummy time and sleep training — all in one tidy spot. Plus, the events calendar helps you find classes and activities in your neighborhood — assuring your baby will be the busiest on the block.
Available at socialtoddler.com.
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While nursing off that extra padding, pop in a copy of Baby’s Home … What Now? The new DVD takes all the advice, tips, and facts you need for the first three months and synthesizes it into manageable chapters. And though the DVD won’t give you all the answers, it does arm you with enough knowledge to feel confident in your new role as mom.
Available at babyshomedvd.com, $25.
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When gym runs are few and far between, the illustrated cards guide busy moms in the quest for physical fitness. Each card maps out a simple exercise that can be done while tending to your wee one. Lunge while pushing a swing or wall sit while he digs in the sandbox.
Available at thehealthygoddess.com, $5 each or two for $9.
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Created by three tech-savvy dads, this free site gives you access to a slew of organizational and social applications. The concept revolves around “circles.” After you’ve established or joined (by invitation) a circle, you can post comments about issues, plan activities, and set up photo galleries on private pages.
Available at cmomgo.com.
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The former beauty director of W and Cookie magazines makes sense of the physical and mental chaos of new momdom. Don’t be put off by the jacket’s promise to “bring out your inner momshell.” Wood shares tidbits only a beauty insider could know, like the best bust-firming creams and why to choose blush over concealer.
Available at amazon.com, $10. Read more of our mom lit picks here.
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There’s nothing like a gym that goes exactly where you go. With Love Handles, turn any major stroller into an elliptical trainer and every walk into a cardio workout. Now there’s no excuse for sitting on your butt all day.
Available at lovehandlesinc.com, $100.
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Hugh Garvey, Bon Appetit editor and cofounder of Gastrokid, shares his wisdom on how to shop, prep, and get a home-cooked dinner on the table at least a few nights a week.
Available at amazon.com, $16.
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Stir up some help in the kitchen with Playful Chef’s kits for kids. Budding sous chefs will salivate over their very own aprons and tools (color-coded measuring cups, safety scissors); you’ll love tip sheets that integrate kitchen safety and science.
Available at amazon.com, $19-$40.
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