Technology has made huge strides and advancements with the creation of the smart phone, iPad, iPod, etc.  Now, it is literally possible to take an entire catalog of music, videos, movies, pictures and games right along with you in your pocket or purse.  There are so many free apps out there for entertaining children's books, games and songs, that my daughter would love to experience.

The only problem is, smart phones, iPods and iPhones are still extremely expensive and there's no way I'm turning over a device worth several hundred dollars to a toddler.  But what do you do when your child could use a quick diversion while waiting in line or at the doctor's office?  Well, thanks to Griffin Technology, you can now whip out the Woogie!

The Woogie is a soft, green, six-legged stuffed animal which is designed to safely house your iPod or iPhone so that your child can interact with all of the many songs, games and story books available via the internet.  The Woogie requires 2 AAA batteries in order to use the built-in speaker, but the great thing is that they are already included.

The Woogie protects your iPhone or iPod via a pocket integrated within the soft, plush toy.  This pocket contains a touch-through screen protector so that your child can still successfully interact with the iPhone or iPod's screen.  This tight-fitting pocket is secured by a Velcro closure and contains a small headphone plug for tapping in to the Woogie's built-in speaker.  If your child would rather use their own earbuds or headphones, then secure the iPhone into the Woogie's protective pocket without plugging in the Woogie's speaker cord.

I was thrilled when I discovered that the Woogie also worked perfectly with my new T-Mobile MyTouch 4G smart phone!  I tried it because my smart phone is very similar to an iPhone and was hoping that the dimensions were close enough to work with the Woogie's protective pocket.  It worked like a charm!  So, if you have a smart phone which is similar to an iPhone, chances are the Woogie will work for you too.

The Woogie is designed for children ages 3 and up and although the Woogie does protect your iPhone or iPod, I am still a little leary of how well due to the protective pocket being located directly on top of the stuffed toy.  Since Riley isn't even two and a half years old, I haven't let her use the Woogie yet.  I will say though that I think the Woogie will work great with a preschooler or older child who won't be quite so rough with it.

My family has a big vacation we'll be taking in May which will involve a long car trip.  I think that the Woogie will be perfect for Riley to help keep her entertained on the car ride there.  With the Woogie, your child can finally have all of the fun and entertainment from your iPhone, iPod or smart phone that you do!  The only problem is...with the Woogie, they might not want to give your phone back!  :)