Hatch Baby Source: Hatch Baby

What's the latest inside poop from the Internet of Things, which has already brought us smart TVs, smart appliances and smart thermometers? A smart baby-changing pad. The Smart Changing Pad connects with an app so new parents can track their child's weight, sleep and even the number of diapers they use. It's debuting Monday at the ABC Kids Expo in Las Vegas, made by a start-up called Hatch Baby, which recently raised $7 million in early funding. "We know that parents are anxious about this, period," said CEO and co-founder Ann Crady Weiss. "How do we help parents relieve that anxiety? We aren't replacing a clinician, but this is a connected generation, and when you become a parent, your baby can't tell you what's going on, so this is something that can."



It's a new take on an old favorite that's been a ubiquitous gift at baby showers for more than 50 years, Weiss said. The $299 wireless device has a soft, washable material on top of a robust, waterproof plastic and LCD screen. The companion app, to be used with or without the changing pads, includes traditional tracking features, plus a picture-a-day feature for sharing milestones, and health tips that correspond the baby's age and weight.

While the neuroses of new parenthood is unlikely to be solved by one device, Weiss said she thinks it's helpful for parents to be able to track information from the comfort of their home, rather than running to the pediatrician. "This makes tracking a more passive activity," Weiss said.

