Table Tyke: Revolutionizing Mealtime for Kids

Rob Merlino

table tykeIn the bustling world of parenting, where every moment is a new adventure, Berlyn Haughton, a Fresno Mom, took a creative leap to simplify mealtime with The Table Tyke. This innovative placemat, born out of a motherโ€™s necessity, has become a game-changer for parents seeking a stress-free dining experience with their little ones.

Inspiration for Table Tyke

Berlynโ€™s inspiration for The Table Tyke stemmed from the challenges she faced when dining out or at home with her young boys. Recounting the early days, she notes, โ€œWhen our boys were younger, especially at that 6-month age when theyโ€™re kinda just bobbing around, theyโ€™d always hit their mouth on the table edge.โ€ This common struggle led her to devise a solution that would not only protect children from table edge bumps but also offer additional benefits.

The Table Tyke features a unique bumper designed to shield children from accidental bumps while also serving as a teething aid with its raised edges. Berlyn emphasizes, โ€œIf theyโ€™re teething because the bumper is raised and we have raised edges as well. If they do spill, their lap stays dry.โ€ The thoughtful design ensures that the mess stays contained, making cleanup a breeze.

A Versatile Accessory

What sets The Table Tyke apart is its versatility. From mealtime to arts and crafts, this silicone placemat is a multi-functional lifesaver for parents. Cleanup is as simple as rinsing off spills, and thanks to its user-friendly design, it can be easily rolled up and stored in diaper bags or purses, making it a convenient companion on the go.

Creating Table Tyke

Berlynโ€™s journey as an entrepreneur took an unexpected turn when she shared her creation on TikTok. A casual video showcasing the productโ€™s features garnered over 300,000 views within the first day, propelling The Table Tyke into the limelight. Berlyn expresses her surprise, saying, โ€œI leaned my phone against a bottle of olive oil and talked about the mat. I posted it, didnโ€™t think anything about it and I just had notification after notification of orders coming in.โ€

As a woman-owned small business, The Table Tyke reflects Berlynโ€™s commitment to making life easier for adults and safer for children. Her entrepreneurial spirit was fueled by a desire to create a career that brought excitement and fulfillment. After over ten years in Corporate America, the birth of her children intensified this aspiration.

โ€œI always dreamed of having my own business. However, I did not know what that would look like or when it would become a reality,โ€ shares Berlyn. The Table Tyke, launched in October 2020, has not only fulfilled her entrepreneurial dream but has also become a trusted companion for parents navigating the challenges of mealtime with little ones.

Creativity Creates Impact

In conclusion, The Table Tyke stands as a testament to innovation driven by real-life challenges. Berlyn Haughtonโ€™s journey from a mom seeking a solution to a successful entrepreneur demonstrates the power of creativity and determination in making a positive impact on the lives of parents and their children. The Table Tyke is not just a placemat; itโ€™s a symbol of simplified mealtime and enhanced family experiences.

My Take on Table Tyke

My parenting days are long over. They didnโ€™t have this stuff when my kids were little. Mealtimes were a messy affair, to the delight of our dog who stayed under the table during meals to get free scraps. While I am not a customer, I am sure my kids will be.

Do Sharks Tyke a Bite?

I think Berlyn will end up with Lori as a partner. Lori has invested in multiple silicon products over the years so she has the manufacturing know-how to take this business to the next level. Berlyn may get other offers, but my money is on Lori.

Share This Article
Follow:
Entrepreneur, author, and raconteur, Rob Merlino is a blogger and writer who enjoys the Shark Tank TV show and hot dogs. A father of five, he freelances for a variety of publications and manages a stable of websites, including Shark Tank Blog, Hot Dog Stories, RobMerlino.com, and more.
Leave a Comment