A doll developed in Iceland that mimics an adult's heartbeat and breathing is now available in New Zealand - and its maker says it will help prolong babies' sleep.
The Lulla doll's creator, Eyrun Eggertsdottir, a mother of two who has studied psychology, claims the recording emitted by the doll - a 20-minute loop of breathing and heartbeat that can last up to eight hours - helps lull babies to sleep and stay asleep longer.
The doll, which will be on display at the Baby Show at the ASB Showground in Auckland from Friday, looks unisex and "unirace".
Sleepytot managing director Fiona Boodee, who brought the doll to New Zealand, says the first shipments of the products immediately sold out. A load is on the way to New Zealand and she has a waiting list of people wanting to buy the $110 cotton, microfibre stuffed tot through her website.
The breathing sound was made by recording a yoga teacher in a deep meditative state.
Other products on the market that emit white noise to calm babies include smartphone apps, a sheep toy that makes a noise when it senses a baby has stirred, and a small electronic unit that emits sound and a nightlight with an MP3 player port.
Preview some of the innovations at the Baby Show
Snotty
A suction nose clearer for kids.
The Gro Hush White Noise Calmer
A hand-held device that delivers "white noise" directly to baby to help them feel calm, cry less and be undisturbed by noise. Noise options include a mother's heartbeat, rain falling on a tin roof and ocean waves.
Bouncing Buddies
Animal-shaped space hoppers.
Lulla doll
A doll that helps imitate closeness. When the chest is pressed, it plays a recording of a mother's breathing and heartbeat.
Lulla Doll from Rorocare on Vimeo.
The Baby Show runs from August 21 to 23. Entry between 10am and 5pm is $15 at the show or $12 online before Thursday.