The Family Groove "Leaders of the Pack"

LEADERS OF THE PACK
KEEP YOUR LITTLE ONE BUSY AND SAFE IN ONE OF THESE HELPFUL PLAY STATIONS

A Pack ’n Play is not only a safe and convenient place for your little one to hang out, it’s a little slice of
sanity (read: maybe you might get five minutes to use the bathroom and check your e-mail). Here, TFG
gives you its top play packs for your favorite little brats, plus a couple of other baby gear essentials.

Graco Pack ’n Play Playard with Newborn Napper

Graco Pack ’n Play Playard with Bassinet & Changing Table in Kasbah
Whether it’s from the two-speed vibration or one of the 10 tranquil songs, your little one is guaranteed to be pampered on his way to la-la land in this plush Pack ’n Play from Graco. Complete with a convertible bassinet and convenient changing table, this stylish all-in-one in Kasbah is also easy to fold and lightweight, making traveling with Baby a much more rockin’ endeavor.
($174.24, www.babyage.com)

Graco Pack n Play Playard Newborn Napper

Graco Pack ’n Play Playard with Newborn Napper
Designed specifically for the newborn, this playard comes with a full-size removable bassinet with a comfy quilted bumper pad and mattress pad, making it the ideal place for infants, up to 15 pounds, to fall asleep peacefully. The mesh-sided playard boasts a one-minute setup and features soothing vibrations, songs and sounds, and a night-light with an auto shut-off timer.
($149.99, www.gracobaby.com)

Graco Pack ’n Play Playard in Bugs Quilt
Unlike most rectangular-shaped Pack ’n Plays, this square one measures 38" x 38", offering more space for Baby to play. Better suited for a slightly older baby, since it doesn’t have the newborn essentials (changing table and bassinet) that other options have, this safe play haven features four interactive toys attached on each of the walls, including a sun with a mirror, a ladybug squeak toy, and a rattling and crinkling bee and butterfly, that provide instant—and contained—entertainment for your baby.
($80.45, www.amazon.com)

Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light
The Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light is the top choice for well-traveled families. Tipping the scales at only 11 pounds, compared with most at 20 pounds, this über-convenient baby sleep solution lacks a changing table or music, but makes up for what it doesn’t have in comfort and quick assembly—it’s even light enough to tote with the baby in your arms.
($249.95, www.babyearth.com)

North States Superyard XT Play Gate
If you are looking for a playard with less of a sleeping focus, this play gate from North States is your answer. The durable weather-resistant plastic makes it a great alternative for parents who enjoy spending their time outside. The gate folds up easily and is lightweight for easy portability. This gate, which can also be used inside, covers 18.5 square feet once connected or up to 34 square feet with the purchase of a two-panel extension kit.
($69.99, www.target.com)

—Erin K. Butler

Erin K. Butler is a freelance writer living in Connecticut with her husband and daughter.