When I was a kid, my mom wouldn’t let my sister and I wear bikinis until we were 12 years old. As a result, it always shocked me when I saw little girls sporting bikinis before they were even out of diapers!

The modern bikini might not be considered as sassy as it used to be, but do you think it’s appropriate for children? These little swimsuits require parents to weigh fashion against other pressing concerns, like sun protection, movement and concerns about skin exposure in general.

Are you a baby bikini fan? Why or why not? At what age do you think it’s appropriate for little girls to wear bikinis? You tell us!

My close friend in San Diego just had her first baby (such a cutie!).  She and her husband are the ultimate San Diegans–gorgeous and healthy–and, because her husband is (of course!) a surfer, I can’t help but think of their new son as a beach baby.  With a wardrobe stocked in surf clothes, a mini surfboard can’t be far behind.  So, in honor of Baby Brayden, I present you with the ultimate Surfer Baby Nursery!

From Top to Bottom, Left to Right:  Vintage Beach-Style Nursery from A List Baby; Surf Custom Canvas from Posh Tots; Surf dresser and art from The Nest Nursery Bio;  Surfboard Lamp; Surf Receiving blanket from Cloud Nine Baby; Beach Baby Sign from Out of the Blue.

A common trend for children’s birthday parties involves renting an inflatable bounce house for kids to jump in, throwing themselves around like maniacs for as long as parents will let the party keep hopping. This idea is a great way to entertain the little ones during birthday parties, but it also serves as an excellent way to integrate exercise into your child’s parties. By making fitness fun, you help to establish lifelong associations among exercise, energy and enthusiasm.

Try throwing a themed party for your children this year that includes fitness on both a fun and functional level by using some of these ideas:

• Got a soccer fan running around the house? Host a soccer-themed party and include a friendly game as a part of the entertainment.
• Give your kids and their friends a rockin’ dance party.

• Make a splash by hosting a pool party at your local YMCA. You can even organize water games like Shark and Fishies to encourage the kids to swim a little harder.
• Have a bowl-o-rama birthday at the bowling alley.
• As a part of the entertainment, organize a bike ride or group rollerblading outing at the local park.

These type of events offer the perfect way to play while you celebrate your child’s big day!