Invented out of a desire to improve what was available, a father from the Netherlands designed a function-based high chair to make his child more comfortable after his son outgrew his traditional chair. That was in 1972, since then Stokke has three product lines designed with comfort in mind for children and infants - seating, nursery, and transportation.

The Stokke lines are higher in price than most, but the quality, unique designs, and the fact that the products grow with the child make them a worthwhile investment. With over 23 awards won across the three types of products, they are definitely doing something right.

The Stokke Xplory (the stroller pictured to the right), will be sure to catch attention as you stroll down the sidewalk. Function is the brains behind the stroller, but the form is modern and attractive. The full travel system retails for $1000 USD. Stokke's motto, "Higher is Better" can be seen in all of their designs. They bring baby and child up closer to mom and dad making them more comfortable during their early years.

The stroller as a standalone comes with:

• Raincover for the regular seat and baby bag
• Mosquito net for the regular seat and baby bag
• Shopping Bag
• 5 different colors to choose from

Many add-ons are available too:

• Baby bag with cover
• Foot muff to use with seat
• Parasol
• Changing bag
• Sleeping bag
• Car seat adapters for Peg Perego Viaggio and Graco Snugride

The highchair that started it all is the only chair your child will need right up until their grade school years. Adjustable so it is even comfortable for mom and dad to try out too. The chair brings baby up to the same level as the rest of the family and makes it easier for parents to feed their baby while trying to get a bite in for themselves.

The chair comes in 11 different colors and a cushion can be purchased separately to coordinate with any decor or to delight a little one. Other highlights of the chair include:

• 7 year guarantee
• Adjustable seat and foot rest
• 5 point harness system
• Made of beechwood
• Retails for $200 USD

The range of nursery furniture available from Stokke is nothing short of amazing. The complete Sleepi system retails for $1090 USD and will keep your baby safe through the night from infant up to the grade school (about seven years old).

The round bassinette and oval crib will require specialty but they are also available from Stokke in their customer textile prints. Once your child has outgrown the toddler bed, the unit can be separated and used as two chairs or as a couch in a play room.

The details:

• 7 year guarantee
• Lockable wheels for safety
• Mattress height adjusts to four different levels
• 5 different colors