Bump for an old thread, but someone else might find this useful... I've done a bit of research since I'm eager to take my little guy out on the water.
Norwegian TV tested life jackets in April.
The Helly Hansen "Kid Safe" was judged best, based on its ability to correctly orient 9 out of 9 test subjects (kids in a pool) and its high mouth-to-surface height. The Baltic Bambi SuperSoft was judged second best, with nearly identical scores.
The Helly Hansen website is probably the worst retailer website in the world, but you can get the vest at a number of European retailers.
http://www.maritimo.at/maritimo/shop/product_info.php/products_id/39512The Baltic Bambi Supersoft is a CE-approved (EN 395 - recreational lifejackets). Baltic jackets are from Sweden, and are readily available in Scandinavia and via UK mail order. I think the hi-viz color probably makes this one the one to have.
http://www.baltic.se/product.asp?prod_id=21&lang=enghttp://www.crew-safe.co.uk/acatalog/BAMBI_CS02.WMV <--- See swimming babies
Norwegian company Regatta AS also makes the "Thermo Cruise Baby," a CE and SOLAS-approved life jacket that's donned just like a regular jacket, complete with full sleeves and a hood. Not tested in the TV program but definitely a suit for serious expedition babies... If dad is paddling a Klepper Quattro in the local pond, this'll fit right in!
http://www.regatta.no/index.php?page_id=232Most importantly, remember to always always use the crotch strap on child PFDs and to expel as much air from diapers as possible, in order to ensure a heads-up floating position.