Babies on the brain

By Meredith Deliso

Brooklyn — your babies have come a long way.

And on March 13, the borough gets its very own baby accessory show for new and expectant parents: the A Child Grows in Brooklyn Baby Expo at the Toren tower in Downtown.

The day-long affair will feature seminars, workshops and products from some of the best the borough baby business has to offer.

“This is the best of the best,” said Karen Connell, expo organizer and founder of the blog, achildgrows.com (pictured with her children). ”These are all the Brooklyn vendors we love. A new parent wouldn’t know these companies.”

Among the Brooklyn businesses heading to the expo will be bra fitter Iris Lingerie; children’s clothing designer Dressing Em; Park Slope boutique Bump Brooklyn, which will be bringing comfortable yet stylish maternity; and, of course, Babeland, for much-needed sex ed.

In addition to products, the expo will be heavy on information, too.

“I’ve been to baby shows across the nation for years, and they’re fun, but very product-oriented,” said Connell, who has two children under 5. “I really wanted to do something where parents were getting genuine, authentic information.”

As such, the expo will feature seminars on greening your home, what baby gear to buy and when, and raising a good sleeper — which, not surprisingly, is one of the most popular so far, said Connell.

Between seminars, you can get a manicure, learn CPR, test baby slings and a new tandem stroller by Kingerwagon — “It’s perfect for city dwellers who can’t get through bodega doors otherwise,” said Connell — take in a maternity fashion show, learn how to make baby food, and get a primer on installing a car seat.

There’ll even be a Brooklyn school consultant.

A Child Grows in Brooklyn Baby Expo at Toren [150 Myrtle Ave. at Flatbush Avenue Extension in Downtown, (917) 723-3616], March 13 from 11 am-4 pm. Tickets $35 ($60 for two, in advance). Kids are free. First 250 registered families receive a gift bag valued at over $100. For info, visit www.achildgrows.com/expo.

Photo by Tom Callan