The Kimochi line of toys was born out of a desire to teach children about their emotions through play and interaction with others.

Kimochi means “feeling” in Japanese. The colorful plush pillows have a feeling word printed on one side,with a facial expression on the other. Each set of toys comes with a 32-page Feeling Guide written by a nationally-renowned child communication expert, Ellen Pritchard Dodge, M.Ed. CCC-SLP. The Feeling Guide has fun descriptions of each character’s personality as well as tips and exercises for parents that use the toys to increase emotional awareness in children.

How much does “green” really color mom’s buying decisions? Our survey of 26 mothers, living throughout the United States and Canada, gives us insights into their reality. This is the second installment of The Giggle Guide’s monthly series, “Ask the Moms.”

Do “green” or eco-friendly concerns affect your purchasing of children’s products, and if so, how?

“Behind The Brand” visits with artist Marnie Vollenhals about her collection of limited-edition original paintings on recycled/reclaimed canvases. Her artistic vision is one of “simple design,” but her business savvy and creativity run deep. Discover the beauty of this artist, mom and entrepreneur who is the picture of art appreciation.

Women recovering from a Cesarean, c-moms as they are called, have a unique challenge caring for a newborn while healing from major surgery. As if childbirth wasn’t hard enough. C-Panty, The After Cesarean Underwear, is a new product developed to provide relief to new moms during their recovery. Named a Top Product by Pregnancy Magazine, the C-Panty was developed by a rehabilitation specialist and surgeon team who are also husband and wife.