HIGH-TECH mums and dads are constantly on the prowl for baby-care gadgets that can help make parenting easier.

And why not? After all, when there are monitors that can "interpret" what your baby is saying when it cries, or surround- sound speakers that can transmit music to Baby in the womb, why not go the high-tech route?

my paper checks out seven baby gizmos.

1) FOR MUMS-TO-BE

RITMO, A PRENATAL SOUND SYSTEM (top image)

What: Want to share your favourite music with your unborn child? Plug your music player or mobile phone into the RiTMO audio belt that fits snugly around your belly. Encased in the belt are four speakers strategically placed to provide an optimal "surround sound" experience for the baby.

Price: $338

Available at: motherswork stores (visit www.motherswork.com.sg for locations), Takashimaya Baby Department, and Baby Singapore (www.babysingapore.com)

LUVION DOPPLER DELUXE-80

What: This foetal heart-rate monitor can pick up heartbeat sounds just 12 weeks into pregnancy. The device comes with two audio outputs, so dad can tune in too. Share the joy with family and friends by recording the baby's heartbeat and playing it for them later.

Price: $138

Available at: motherswork stores, Takashimaya Baby Department, and Baby Singapore

2) FOR NEW MUMS

WHYCRY MINI

What: Puzzled over what your crying baby actually wants? Researchers behind WhyCry Mini say this device can read an infant's cries, identifying if he or she is hungry, sleepy, annoyed, stressed or even bored.

Price: $89.90

Available at: Mums & Babes store at #01-89 United Square (or visit www.mumsandbabes.com.sg), and motherswork stores

TZBEEN BABY CARE TIMER

What: This multi-purpose tool helps you remember baby-care details, such as the last time mummy fed junior and, even, which breast. Take your pick from blue for boys, pink for girls and green if you're not sure yet.

Price: $68

Available at: motherswork stores, and Baby Singapore

PHILIPS AVENT STEAMER & BLENDER SCF870/21

What: A two-in-one steamer and blender makes for hassle-free pureed baby food. Simply throw vegetables, fruit or meat in to steam, and flip over the jar to blend.

Price: $199

Available at: Kiddy Palace, Marina Square, #03-160/164

SUMMER INFANT BEST VIEW HANDHELD COLOR VIDEO MONITOR

What: This video monitor allows you to remotely control a camera to pan, scan and zoom in on your tot, while you're in another room. The video monitor accepts up to four cameras, so you can place cameras in various rooms in the house.

Price: $439.90

Available at: Mothercare stores (visit www.mothercare.com.sg for locations)

PHILIPS AVENT DIGITAL VIDEO MONITOR SCD600

What: This device allows you to keep an eye on your little one under dim light with its infra-red night vision. It also acts as night light and plays soothing lullabies.

Price: $459

Available at: Kiddy Palace, Marina Square, #03-160/164

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