Purple Queen Poop Emoji Pillow

October 20, 2016 by 4 Comments

When is it appropriate to give a kid a fluffy poop?  No, not when you have finally lost your marbles or to that little punk down the street.  It is appropriate when it is a plush Purple Queen poop. Or really, any fun Emoji- my son just likes to play with poop, it seems. Did you ever think that you would be OK with that as a parent? Ha.  These fun items are available from IUEmoji, which has a whole line of Emoji plush. A total of twelve emoji s for you to choose from. You can pick from various shades of poop to the more pleasant sounding to my ear (though the kids DO love the poops the best) smiles and winks and even puppies.  The little guy is a sucker for emojis, especially the poop one, which is a gas to him ever time.

stuffed poop toy

Adults- please, for your own sanity. This is a poop emoji, not a chocolate soft serve ice cream emoji.  Countless adults have told me that it was an ice cream- and it makes me have one of those “head tilt” moments. Even though poop is not exactly palatable, please do not keep insisting it is ice cream- it’s a poop. Kids like the poop because it’s a poop, and the emoji on the phone is meant to say “Oh POOP!” or insert other word. Who says “Oh, Ice Cream!” unfondly? Come now. Consider this a “The More You Know” moment, brought to you by me. You’re welcome.

travel pillow

Now that I have said “poop” a hundred times….lets keep going, shall we?  The plush itself is well put together and vibrantly colored.  This is a pretty unique stuffed poop, as it were-  and she is the queen of all purple poops, actually.  Of course! The plush is also a  three in one item.  One it is a plush pillow, two it is a neck pillow, and three it is a tablet holder.  This plush makes a welcome addition to any bed room, boy or girl, and makes for some serious giggles both when opened and when used in general.  The Purple Queen Poop makes a great gift for adults or children, but please keep the parental guardians in mind when giving this to a child.  No need to offend if that is not your intent.  In our house, a stuffed poop is a laughing matter, so no worries on our part.

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The neck rest is also easy to “flip to”, and it’s a good toy to travel with since all purposes work for the car or plane ride. Sleep on it, use your tablet, or snuggle with it.  That’s right- go snuggle some poop, kid. (Says the best mom ever.)

The Purple Queen Poop plush retails for $29.99 and is available now online.

Filed Under: kids, review, toys Tagged With:

The Best and Simplest Kids’ Party Themes

October 4, 2016 by Leave a Comment

kids birthday party

The first few birthday parties you host for your children may seem like a blast, but eventually, it becomes more arduous. Throwing a birthday party, even for the littlest of guests of honor can be time-consuming and downright stressful.

That’s why selecting a theme can be helpful. When you choose a theme, it gives you an easy way to tie everything together, and it simplifies decision-making. You can build everything from your decorations to your food around that theme. At the same time, when selecting a theme you want it to be something that’s fun but relatively straightforward.

Below are some easy ideas that will leave you with a little less work next time you’re planning a party for your little ones.

Little Italy

This idea comes from RealSimple.com, and it’s a great one. A Little Italy party is a perfect kids’ entertainment option for so many reasons. The first is that the décor can be simple. Think things like red-and-white checkered tablecloths, and a few red, green and white accessories and you’re basically finished. Plus, you can buy disposable items, wrap everything up in the tablecloths when the party is over, and cleanup is essentially done. For the food, have the kids make their own pizzas. This is a great idea since it pulls double-duty as the entertainment, and the kids will have a blast, while the adults get a chance to relax a bit.

Art Party

As far as kids’ party themes go, it really doesn’t get any simpler than an art party. Art parties are great because again, like the Little Italy theme, the entertainment is built right in. Plus, it lets kids get creative, and they’ll even have something they can take home at the end of the party. Keep the food easy, and use bright neutral colors that mimic a paint palette. For example, dyed rice Krispy treats are a great idea and so easy to make.

Hawaiian Luau

The Hawaiian luau is a versatile theme, and it works well if you want something that’s suitable for the adults and the kids. According to Party Swizzle, when you’re hosting a Hawaiian luau you can add fun with bright, tropical beverages, and you can make two versions of each—one that’s kid friendly and one that’s for an adult. You can even create a full tiki bar. The kids (and the adults) can all be given a grass skirt and a lei, and food can include things like fresh fruit or chicken nuggets with pineapple dip.

Sprinkles

When we promised simple party ideas, we meant it. You really can’t get too much easier than a sprinkles themed party. You can add sprinkles to a cake or cupcakes and keep most of the décor simple and white, except the “sprinkle” details of course. You can even add confetti to the bottom of white balloons, and rim drinking glasses and kids’ cups with sprinkles.

Throwing a kids’ party doesn’t have to be time-consuming and exhausting. If you’re able to choose a simple, versatile theme, much of the work is already done for you, so have fun with it and don’t overthink it.

Filed Under: kids Tagged With: ,

Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals #HelpKidsLiveBetter

September 30, 2016 by Leave a Comment

As a parent there is nothing scarier then the thought of your child seriously sick or hurt.  This can be a horrible maddening experience where you are not only helpless in the face of a big problem but also without answers and especially without reasons.  But for these serious times it is good to know Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals are out there and willing to give you the help you need to get your child back in good shape.

The little guy at one point was very ill.  He had a whole bunch of stomach issues to say the least.  And as we adults know these are not ‘fun’ experiences and we know exactly what is going on and that they have to happen.  As a little one, all he knew was something hurt.  So we met with doctors, many of them.  From dietitians to gastroenterologists and even GI surgeons, all had very little to tell us. They all gave us different reasons and things to try, and none seemed to work.  Eventually we did find out what was wrong, part of the reason was that his intestine and bowels were too big for his size/age.  This part, he will eventually “grow into”.  Other issues still had to be worked out, and he is what I lovingly refer to as “high maintenance”.  It’s an ongoing situation.  Even now, we have a therapeutic way of keeping this issue in control as long as he takes a certain combination of probiotics and vitamins every single day, as well as some other medications and keeps his water and fiber intake high.  If even one day is missed, it is problematic and makes for some horribly painful daily activities.

If this issue wasn’t found and dealt with in a proper matter by competent caring doctors, we would still be worrying day and night about it, and the poor little guy would still be having at least daily stomach pain and probably worse.  If you want to help out kids in need, please consider donating to Children’s Miracle Network of Hospitals.

#HelpKidsLiveBetter by donating to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals at your local Wal-Mart or Sam’s Club today. You can join your community in donating to your local children’s hospital at a Wal-Mart or Sam’s Club near you. Help make miracles happen for kids when you donate at your checkout today. Your donations help children’s hospitals provide the best care for the kids. Every minute 62 children enter a Children’s Miracle Network Hospital for treatment; your donations ensure these hospitals can provide the best care for these children. Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals in the U.S. provide more than $3.5 billion in charitable care every year. Last year Wal-Mart customers and Sam’s Club members, like you, helped raise more than $60 million to #HelpKidsLiveBetter. Every dollar raised at your local Wal-Mart or Sam’s Club goes directly to your local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital.  Since 1987 Wal-Mart customers and Sam’s Club members together with store associates have raised nearly $1 billion for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

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Filed Under: health, kids Tagged With:

Must Have Eco-Tableware for Tots from Brinware

September 26, 2016 by 2 Comments

Disclosure- We received the below in order to facilitate this review.  All opinions are our own. For more information, see “I Disclose”.
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With little ones, it’s always important to find items that you absolutely love. It is also incredibly important for me to find things that are safe for my children. I as so excited to find Brinware Eco-Tableware products for my children to use.

About Brinware:

Brinware is dedicated to making the safest, cutest, most responsibly created children’s tableware – ever! Brinware is what happens when you combine the care and concern of a parent with the creativity and passion of an artist – vibrant tableware that is a feast for young eyes and addresses the growing demand for safe alternatives to plastic. Brinware achieves this by using only two simple materials:Glass and Silicone. Brinware’s durable dishware is created from tempered glass for strength, purity and safety. Each piece is then paired with a colorful, removable, patented, silicone sleeve that offers slip and break resistance for an even more durable combination. The silicone sleeve removes easily allowing you to mix and match your colors and to pop all the pieces in the dishwasher for easy, thorough cleaning. A great alternative to plastic patio dishware too!

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About the Products:

Placemat Sets: Brinware Placements are made of food grade silicone and are a great addition to the Brinware Plate set. Each placement is easy to clean, won’t retain odors, and easily rolls up to take on the go with you. The set holds 2 placemats that can go in the dishwasher to clean up.

2-Pack Plate Sets: These are contructed from tempered glass with a silicone cover to provide an extra-durable layer of protection and slip resistance, these BPA-and phthalate-free dishes offer an alternative to plastic plates. Tempered glass dish measures 7.5″ and comes with removable silicone cover. Both are microwave and dishwasher safe.

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Catch-All Silicone Bib: Eating time can definitely be made cleaner and easier with these great deep-pocketed bibs. They are made of 100% food-grade silicone. These bibs wipe clean and can even go in the dishwasher. There is a great adjustable neck that makes it easy to find the perfect fit. The bib also rolls up easily to travel with.

Multi-Purpose Containers: These amazing food storage containers are made of borosilicate glass and FDA approved silicone. The cute cut out patterns in the silicone allows anyone the ability to see through the glass and what is awaiting inside! The silicone is slip resistant and grips to surfaces. These are great for sandwiches, snacks and more.

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My Thoughts:

These girls are absolutely in love with their new products from Brinware. They love the placemats and taking turns with the letter one and the alphabet one. They love also taking turns with their new favorite plates. We have our nice good dishes that I find myself not wanting to let the girls eat on because I don’t want them to accidentally drop them on the floor so I have found them occasionally eating on plastic plates and then I always find myself worrying about if its BPA-and phthalate-free. I love these dishes they are safe for my babies to eat off of as well, and not to mention adorable as well :). I know that with my 3 month old youngest, we are going to get even more use out of these dishes than any other children dishes I own.

Purchase:

If you are interested in purchasing any of the wonderful products from Brinware, head on over to their website and pick out the items for your little loved one!

**You can also head on over to Target and purchase these amazing products form their website**

If you use the code BRINWARE20 you will save 20% at checkout, now through 10/1.

Filed Under: baby, kids, review Tagged With: , , , , ,

Tilt Studio Family Entertainment Center

September 19, 2016 by Leave a Comment

Tilt Studio Family Entertainment Center hosts a variety of games and attractions that appeal to people of all ages. The fun center features a unique combination of food, fun and ‘freshments in a safe, clean and welcoming environment.

Guests will enjoy FUN AT FULL BLAST at Tilt Studio with a dynamic roster of more than 100 classic and modern interactive video and redemption prize games for all skill levels.

Whether you are looking to host a meeting, team building event, group gathering, non-profit FUNdraiser, or awesome birthday party, Tilt Studio can accommodate groups of all sizes.
Buy One Attraction, Get One Attraction FREE! – Buy one attraction at regular price, get one attraction FREE! Attractions include: Black Light Mini Golf, Mini-Bowling, Laser Frenzy, Ballocity Fun Zone, Dino Venture, Twirlin’ Taxi Ride, and Gemstone Mining.
http://usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=75&bid=12675&dealid=2645

Filed Under: entertainment, kids Tagged With:

Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park

September 19, 2016 by Leave a Comment

Sky Zone is the world’s first indoor trampoline park. We’re the inventors of “fun fitness” and the makers of trampolines as far as the eye can see. We give you one of the greatest workouts ever combined with awesome, healthy fun. We’ve been voted the number one “out of the box” workout and the “best party ever.” Experience WOW – the weightlessness of bouncing, flipping and landing in a pit filled with 10,000 foam cubes.


We are dedicated to providing you with the pure joy that comes with flying. We are sky lovers, thrill seekers and people who believe that jumping is freedom. We believe fitness can be fun and play can be smart. We are healthy and bursting with energy. We fly high and keep it safe. We are Sky Zone.

Save 10% off 60-minute Open Jump! – Mention Code USFG10 to receive 10% off a 60-minute Open Jump. Valid Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday only. Not valid on holidays or blackout dates. May not be combined with any other discounts or offers. Limited to 1 jump per person per visit. Walk – ins only (not valid for online purchases)
http://usfamilyguide.com/coupons.php?bid=12498&dealid=2438


Three convenient locations in New Jersey! Mount Olive, Pinebrook, Allendale! Find more information here:
http://www.skyzone.com/mountolive/
http://www.skyzone.com/pinebrook/
http://www.skyzone.com/allendale/

Filed Under: kids Tagged With:

Three Simple Ways to “Calm Down” Your Child’s Bedroom

September 19, 2016 by 1 Comment

child room

Putting your kids to bed to be a chore; however, what happens when they simply can’t seem to get a good night’s sleep?

Conventional wisdom tells us that children under the age of thirteen should get at least nine hours of sleep per night. Additionally, failure to do could lead to a number of sleep-related problems and symptoms, including but not limited to the following:

  • Moodiness or behavioral problems

  • Trouble concentrating

  • Memory and learning problems

  • Slower reaction times

  • Overeating

Feeling helpless? Don’t panic.

Keep in mind that the culprit keeping them restless may be lurking in their bedroom, and there are steps you can improve the quality of your child’s sleep. Take quick inventory of what’s going on within your child’s sleeping space and use the following factors as starting points for creating a calmer bedroom.

Presence of Light

The presence of light in the bedroom can have a subtle yet significant effect on sleep quality. Exposure to too much light, natural or otherwise, can increase our heartrates and keep us wide awake. Therefore, consider the following small changes to naturally calm your child’s room in regard to bright lights:

  • Investing in room darkening blinds to black out disturbances outdoors such as street lights and the headlights of passing cars

  • Removing any televisions, screens or monitors from the room to ensure minimal exposure to light prior to bedtime

  • Use less intense light bulbs, dimming bulbs or blue-blocking light bulbs in the room’s lamps and/or ceiling fixtures

Bedding

Everyone is different in terms of what types of fabrics they prefer; however, you should consider how your child’s bedding may impact their ability to snooze. For example, sheets with higher-thread count doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re inherently more comfortable than cheaper, soft cotton options. Considering that the temperature can also effect sleep quality, consider investing in cool, breathable sheets.

Keeping your child’s bedding clean on a regular basis (at least once every ten days) will keep their skin from being irritated, which may also keep them up at night. Bear in mind that changing up your laundry detergent may be hard on sensitive skin: even the seemingly “small stuff” can set off breakouts in children.

Noise

Perhaps most obvious, excessive noise can keep anyone from catching some z’s. If your child’s bed is adjacent to a bedroom with a television or perhaps picks up sounds from outside, even the smallest sounds could mean interrupt them from a deep sleep.

Thankfully, you can combat such interruptions through “white noise,” essentially a constant, ambient sound that can help lull your child to bed. White noise can be achieved a number of ways, such as:

  • The whir of a bedside fan

  • The running of air purifier or dehumidifier

  • Sound conditioners and “white noise machines,” which emulate sounds such as the flow of a stream or the washing of waves on a shoreline

Although it may seem backward that creating noise can help block out other interruptions, listening to a consistent sound can help block out external, auditory distractions in the home.

It may take some experimentation to figure out what’s keeping your child up at night. However, consider first the subtle factors that you can deal with sooner rather than later as means of diagnosing the cause of the problem.

Filed Under: home, kids Tagged With: ,

Child Passenger Safety Week #STORKS #TheRightSeat

September 19, 2016 by Leave a Comment

The Right Seat Isn’t The Only Thing Keeping Your Kids Safe! Let’s Talk About Child Passenger Safety Week!

The Right Seat Isn’t The Only Thing Keeping Your Kids Safe! Let’s Talk About Child Passenger Safety Week!

If you are a parent, it is very likely that you have spent countless hours researching your new baby’s car seat, or which car seat you need to buy next as your child grows and grows. I know that my son is constantly growing it seems, and sometimes I look at him and think maybe he is getting to that age where he doesn’t need a seat. But that just isn’t the case. Many parents take their kids out of a car seat or booster seat way too early. While a good car seat is vital for protecting your child in the event of a crash, it is not enough on its own. Even the best car seats cannot force you to properly install them or buckle your child in.

Every 33 seconds one child under age 13 is involved in a car crash— but safety seats, if used correctly and installed correctly, dramatically reduce the risk of fatality or injury to children.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PbkjToOqJ3Q]

 

Is Your Child In The Right Seat?:

  • Your child under age 1 should always ride in a rear-facing car seat.
  • Children ages 1-3 should be kept rear-facing as long as possible.
  • Keep your child in the back seat at least through age 12.
  • Be certain you’ve installed your car seat correctly by having it checked at an inspection station or by a certified child passenger safety technician. Bring the Car Seat Instructions AND the Vehicle Owner’s Manual with you to a seat check appointment!

Is Your Seat Installed Properly?:

  • Installation Resources:If a car seat is not installed correctly, your child’s safety could be in danger. Every car seat has different installation instructions. You can find resources and tips here to help you get “the right fit” on your car seats:     http://www.safercar.gov/parents/RightFit.htm
  • Free Car Seat Checks: During Child Passenger Safety Week, there will be more than 600 events in 45 states across the country, where certified child passenger safety technicians will inspect car seats and show parents and caregivers how to correctly install and use them. In most cases, this service is free of charge.  Locate a car seat check event here:http://www.safercar.gov/cpsApp/cps/index.htm

The Right Seat Isn’t The Only Thing Keeping Your Kids Safe! Let’s Talk About Child Passenger Safety Week!

As a parent, you are your kids’ strongest influence when it comes to modeling safe driving practices, including buckling up every time you get in the car. Teach your family that safety is the responsibility of all passengers as well as the driver.

Get this message out to your friends and family!

  • Twitter – Many parents do not realize their child is in the wrong car seat. Visit gov/TheRightSeatand make sure your child is riding safely. #therightseat.
  • Facebook – Storks know how to keep kids safe. Do you? Visit safercar.gov/therightseat to know for sure that your child is in the right seat for their age and size. #STORKS #TheRightSeat
Filed Under: kids, safety Tagged With: ,