Check Out These Cool Dad-Invented Baby Products
Last Updated on Monday, 13 June 2011 11:51 Written by Jenny Monday, 13 June 2011 11:01
Father's Day is right around the corner and to honor Dad, I decided to make my TV spot this week focused on cool products invented by fathers. These dads' stories touched a nerve with me the most and were selected to be featured in my TV spot - which ran on KWGN-TV Channel 2 in Denver, Colorado on June 13, 2011. Here's more about each of these amazing inventions below!
Tummy Shield - $200
This product was invented by Australian Dad, George Baladi, who was determined to invent a product to protect unborn babies in the womb. George and his wife were devastated to learn that their first born, Sophie, was born with severe disabilities. They believe a minor car accident they had while his wife was pregnant may have injured the unborn baby. This amazing couple turned devastation into inspiration as they invented The Tummy Shield, which modifies a seat belt so the pressure is diverted between the legs vs. on a pregnant belly. Car crashes account for 4 of 5 deaths that occur among unborn babies of pregnant women who experience trauma - the Tummy Shield can save lives and we are grateful for this dad's invention!
Dad Gear - $80
Dad Gear is a Denver-based company founded by two dads, Scott Shoemaker and John Brosseau, who were new fathers frustrated by the girly and flowery diaper bags currently available. The duo set out to invent a dad-centric diaper bag that was both masculine and functional – thus creating Dad Gear! Here's a picture of Dad Gear in action!
Lil’ Diner - $10
This innovation was invented by Jesse Mills, a father who was fed up with having to wipe down a tray in a restaurant to feed his son when he'd rather feed his son off a real plate. He invented the Baby Diner, which enabled him to secure a plate with either a suction cup or clamp. I wasn't sure at first if this would work, but after playing with it for a bit, this product does what it says it does and truly sticks steadfast to most smooth surfaces. It's fantastic!
HALO - $30
HALO creates sleep sacks and swaddle blankets that are safe for use when baby is sleeping. These amazing products cannot be kicked off and there's no risk of baby becoming entangled in loose blankets while sleeping. HALO sleep products were invented by William Schmid who began researching safe sleeping environments after he and his wife lost a daughter to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome in 1991. This company is such an inspiration and we thank this dad-inventor for this important invention!
itzbeen - $24.99
The itzbeen pocket nanny was invented by a father named Greg Sheldon who equally cared for his newborn son. He and his wife would always ask each other, "How long has it been since you... changed his diaper, fed him, put him down for a nap, gave him his medicine... " etc. That’s how this father had the idea for a simple set of timers that tell parents how long "it's been" (hence the name itzbeen). Here is a picture of Greg with his family and the baby who was the inspiration behind the itzbeen!
My Brest Friend - $45
This breastfeeding aid was invented by a 29 year old bachelor, Andrew Zenoff, who developed My Brest Friend years ago after seeing a really good friend of his struggle to feed her baby with traditional soft u-shaped breastfeeding pillows. This dad-like hero created a product that stays securely in place, helps maintain good posture during feeding and makes life for a nursing mom easier! This is Andrew pictured below - way to go!
