Columbus Parent Magazine

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These adorable, fun water creatures made of terry cloth and nylon have lights in different places that begin flashing instantly when they hit the water (they float as an additional child safety measure). Each character is individually named and comes with its own unique story. Parents will surely smirk when they read about how Albert the Alligator wants to be president of his own handbag company (rather than the handbag). The Waterwonders mechanism is both waterproof and water-activated. It also features a self shut-off to preserve battery life. Six creatures will debut in the master set and new characters will be introduced periodically. Ages 3 and up. Available in June for $9.99 each at Toys ?R? Us stores nationwide and online at www.goldbergertoy.com.

These high-quality swimming goggles provide corrective powers for kids (and adults) with near or far-sightedness. These sleek goggles are 100 percent UVA and UVB protected. The lenses are treated with a high-performance anti-fog treatment, and the straps are made of high-quality rubber for ultimate comfort. Lenses are available for myopia (short-sightedness) in powers from -1.5 to -9.0. Available for $30.95 at http://www.aclens.com/swimming-goggles.asp.

Expectant mothers are bombarded with so much information about pregnancy from many different sources, and feel more overwhelmed today than ever before ... yet they still have questions. The Joy of Pregnancy emphasizes what?s normal, fun, and even funny about pregnancy. In a lighthearted and encouraging tone, the book helps mothers- and fathers-to-be learn to relax and enjoy this special time in their lives. Available for $14.95 in bookstores.

The summer months are fast approaching, which means your kids will soon be out of school and making mischief at home. Turn off the TV and get them outdoors! Your backyard can be a classroom of wonders, and the park can be a science lab. Just make sure to give your kids the right tools, including Lynn Brunelle?s Camp Out! The Ultimate Kids? Guide. The book includes a wealth of camping tips, such as how to spot constellations, how to read nature?s direction decoders, an ultimate packing list, and many games and activities. The book is available for $11.95 at bookstores. Ages 7 and up.

Has raising children become more difficult, or are parents unnecessarily alarmed by the constant stream of stories and statistics in the media? How do those reports relate to our kids? What?s fact? What?s exaggeration, or misinterpretation? These are some of the questions that parenting expert Debra Haffner answers in What Every 21st-Century Parent Needs to Know. Haffner provides insight into the world of children today, along with practical and reassuring tips on how to tackle many of parenting?s day-to-day challenges. Available for $16.95 in bookstores, or online at www.newmarketpress.com.