May 12

Exploring Creativity With WowWee ArtSee Studio For The iPad!

May 12

At four years old Toodie has mastered using my iPad to play games, listen to music, browse YouTube, take photos, and spontaneously tweet random things to my followers. This usually includes a jumble of letters and funny emojis but she calls this “tweeting like mommy.” Each day I am amazed at how intelligent and savvy she is with technology around us. Thankfully there are apps and software to feed this curiosity and also educate simultaneously. One of her favorite gadgets to use is of course my ever so popular iPad. It’s light, portable, and just plain fun because of the innovative touch screen. It offers a different play experience compared to a PC or handheld console.

I recently discovered an interactive app and and tool that integrates the iPad with hours of entertaining activities for children. WowWee’s ArtSee Studio encourages drawing, animation, art, and imagination through an interactive journey. Your child can create pictures from a blank canvas, color pre-drawn characters, paint from a pallete of vibrant colors, and even learn through educational activities. To get started all you need is the ArtSee Studio protective case, your tablet, and the FREE app. Download the app from the iTunes store and slide in your iPad to secure it in place. It is compatible with iPad generations 1,2,3 & 4. While the ArtSee Studio app can be used without the case, options are limited and you need the attached stamps for most activities.

Toodie has always enjoyed doing anything artys and creative. This app completely sucked her in and sent her into a whimsical world of imagination, which I loved! She took her time browsing through the activities and kept coming back to those she favored. She practiced symmetry, matching, sound, and memory through a variety of games. These included Connect The Dots, Odd One Out, Association, Melodee and Symmetry. Each teaching a different skill while making it fun and easy to understand. In addition to the five stamps, there is a pen stylus perfect for tiny hands. The pen snaps right into the case just as the other pieces do. This makes it easy to carry around to restaurants or in the car without having to worry about losing any loose pieces along the way. It’s going to be a life saver on our next long drive to Disney World!

All of your child’s saved artwork is safely stored in the “collection” tab within the Artsee Studio app. This makes holding on to their unique creations easy. It also allows them to go back and view what they have made later on. Toodie enjoyed showcasing her drawings and scrolling through her pictures days later. At any time she could go back and add personality, sound, and actions!

FEATURES INCLUDED:

Over 75 animated stamp variations
15 roller patterns
3 built-in theme packs
60 challenging activities in 5 unique games
Over 15 coloring pages
Multi-functional stylus
5 interactive tools
Easy-Grip Handle
Protective Case
Made for iPad® (1st, 2nd, 3rd & 4th Generation

The case itself is a nice size and because it is flat, it rests easily on the lap. The back even has a flip out stand so it can sit up on a table! Toodie used it resting on her knees. Normally when she plays with the iPad I have to put a pillow underneath because there is nothing to hold it in place. This is a small feature that many may look over but it is SO helpful!

On the bottom of the Artsee Studio interface there is a prompt to access the Parent Menu. By holding two fingers down onto the strip of symbols, you will be presented with further options. Here you can save your child’s artwork, print, or share within your social media channels. You can also purchase additional theme packages including “Fairy Tales.” Import your own photos for your child to play with or make changes to the difficulty scale. ArtSee Studio can be played on a Junior or Advanced option to grow with your child. As a mom of an intelligent toddler, I prefer that she work on stimulating activities that will challenge her as she grows. Once she masters the Junior level, I can raise the bar to Advanced and watch her learn! It’s also nice that parents still have control over the application and can make these alternations at any time.

If interested in further information on the ArtSee Studio you can visit their website. Here you can get a closer look at the individual features and take a step forward in expanding your child’s imagination! Connect with the brand on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinter est for updates and other reviews from parents like myself. You even have a chance to win one of your own if you pay close attention on Twitter. They frequently have RT contests in which a lucky winner receives their very own ArtSee Studio!

Disclosure: I was provided with an Artsee Studio to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own and I will not be compensated!

Apr 22

Join Crayola’s Big Colorful 110th Birthday Bash Adventure!

Apr 22

To celebrate Crayola’s 110th birthday, the 8 original crayons are throwing a birthday bash at the new fun-omenal Crayola Experience, the world’s only interactive Crayola family attraction. Right now, they’re out on a colorful adventure to spread the news, and you’re invited to join the fun!

You can join in by following the crayons on their adventure! In the process you will LEARN more about each color and enter to WIN a trip for 4 to celebrate their birthday and the Grand Opening of the all new Crayola Experience this coming May, 2013! What child wouldn’t LOVE this?! I grew up with Crayola and would absolutely love to attend this event as an adult. Can you imagine how thrilled your little one would be too?!

Just visit the Crayola Facebook page and click “enter now” for your chance to be first in line when the Crayola Experience reopens. You don’t want to miss out on this exciting opportunity and chance to win!

The new Crayola Experience features four floors of new interactive exhibits and one-of-a-kind attractions that will bring the magic of color and your child’s creativity to life! The winner will be among the first to experience the fun, along with a three- night, all-expenses paid stay. It’s an experience your kids will never forget – and neither will you!

Disclosure: The information used within this post was provided by Crayola.

Mar 03

Monthly Crafts For Kids: Wummelbox Review

Mar 03

Hello friends! It has been a while since I had an exciting find to share with you. This month I was given the opportunity to review a new monthly subscription service for children. Meet the Wummelbox! The Wummelbox comes filled with arts & crafts projects that inspire creativity, imagination, and exploration. Cool fact? It originated in Germany and is actually known there as “Wummelkiste.” It is geared towards children between the ages of 3 to 8. Each crafty project includes an illustrated booklet of directions along with just about all of the supplies required. There is also a “wummel” indicator on the front of each booklet that tells the difficulty of each craft and if parental assistance is needed. Between all three projects, Toodie was able to do at least one on her own while I was happy to help with the others. I noticed she was very intrigued by this box. While she always gets giddy when one of these packages arrive at our doorstep, she seemed extra curious about this one!
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Oct 05

Kidfresh Frozen Meals Provide Healthier Options #KFHealthyKids #CBias

Oct 05

As parents we are always searching for healthier meal options for our children and ourselves. It can be tricky avoiding processed foods, artificial coloring, and mystery ingredients labeled on boxes. This past year has been a stepping stone for my family because I have changed our eating habits tremendously. In addition to purchasing fresh vegetables and fruits, I read labels and make sure I know exactly what we are eating. I have not only been trying to improve my own eating habits, but also those of my daughter who is growing like a weed. Since it is not always possible to cook a full course healthy meal every single night, it is nice to have other nutritious options to choose from. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and even snack time can sometimes be stressful and conflict with busy schedules. With this in mind I took a trip to my local Publix supermarket to find the Kidfresh frozen kid’s meals. The team behind Kidfresh has mastered the art of sneaking vegetables into their meals and getting them into little tummies! Before leaving to the grocery store, I checked the Kidfresh Facebook page and printed a coupon for $1 off. You can print one too by entering your email.

Prepared with my KidFresh coupon and a list of groceries, we arrived to Publix for some late night shopping. My plan was to tackle the freezer section but I decided to get the essentials first. It had to be the quickest shopping session ever. I think I really got myself excited about checking out Kidfresh!

After picking up what we needed, I headed over to find the KidFresh meals in the freezer section. I expected them to be near the other healthy kid’s meals but was surprised to see the display by the ethnic foods. The bright green packaging stuck our like a sore thumb and caught my eye immediately. Every variety was fully stocked and available for purchase. I also noticed that there was a small sign under each, listing the nutrition facts. This gave me a quick glimpse as to what the meals offered. I didn’t see this information under any other brand, only Kidfresh.

Having a hard time choosing which to toss in the cart, I decided to get one of each! With the $1 coupon handy, two of the meals were almost free. What is better than saving money AND getting healthy alternatives for your children?

I wanted to learn a little bit more about Kidfresh and what made them so unique. The back of the package was full of useful information and taught me a thing or two. I took a moment to read further. Each delicious entree is made from all natural ingredients and contains 1 half cup of vegetables per serving. Seems like an easy way to get protein, fiber, and calcium into my daughter’s diet without her even knowing. I am liking Kidfresh already.

With all of the benefits presented, I piled in the packages and headed to check out. It was a relief knowing that I was purchasing food that may be frozen, but is still loaded with vitamins and nutrients.

Tonight’s dinner would be the true test. I heated up the Easy Cheesy Ravioli in hopes that Toodie was enjoy it without noticing the hidden veggies. I recognized that the tomato sauce was thick, chunky, and made with real vegetable. The ravioli squares were plump and stuffed with Ricotta, Romano, and Parmesan cheese. This was such a refreshing change from what we are used to. Most frozen meals are processed and very bland. Before serving, I snuck a bite in myself and enjoyed the medley of tomato, squash, and natural cheese. I was sold. It was hard to believe that this meal consisted of so many hidden vegetables, even carrots. The flavors blended perfectly and now I understand why Kidfresh is so good at what they do. Toodie loved her dinner and actually finished her whole entire meal. It may seem like no surprise, but with her being such a picky eater this rarely ever happens. Her bowl was empty and her belly was happy. Finally, I don’t have to feel so bad about giving my kid a frozen dinner. Kidfresh came out on top tonight!

If you would like to find out more information about Kidfresh, you can follow along on Facebook and Twitter. This will allow you to stay up to date with their products and be the first to hear about promotions.

Also, take a peek on my Google+ album for a closer look into my shopping experience & new found love for Kidfresh meals!

Disclosure: I am a member of the Collective Bias™ Social Fabric® Community. This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias™ and Kidfresh #CBias #SocialFabric

Aug 21

Fall Fashions At The Children’s PLACE #PLACEfall

Aug 21

This week I had the opportunity to shop the new Fall collection at The Children’s PLACE. With school about to start, I have been a busy bee making sure Toodie has everything she needs. Back to school clothes have to be my favorite part of the new school year and I love picking out outfits for my munchkin! What better place to get a hip new wardrobe than here? The prices are affordable and the clothing is always stylish.

From the moment I walked in I was welcomed by full table of colored jeggings and embellished graphic t-shirts. Everything was sheek and full of sparkle and shine. There were also several Bohemian pieces including flowy paisley tops, faux fur, and neutral fringed boots. To top off the glam factor, there were animal print bubble dresses, cardigans, tights, and ballet flats. Every theme tied into one another making it easy to create a fierce outfit! I wish that Toodie would have been with me because she would have went crazy in there.

I noticed these adorable bag packs and matching lunchboxes as soon as I reached the toddler section. How sweet!

Throughout the store I noticed one continuous trend in each department- VARSITY! I came across this navy girl’s varsity jacket before checkout and picked out the smallest size they had for Toodie. It was too cute to pass up! This is a trend I am happy to see come back.

The Children’s Place is now a destination for new and expecting moms. They offer baby clothing for girls and boys including sizes 0 to 4T. I was impressed with the infant selection, the graphic onesies and little dresses were precious.

The toddler section was where I spent most of my time. I picked up a few of these long sleeve shirts for winter and skirts to match. The layered look was starting to grow on me. I hope I can get it to look that put together at home! The dresses are always my favorite and you will see later in this post I couldn’t help myself.

I must have been distracted by all of the little girl’s clothing because I didn’t take one photo of the boy’s side this time! I couldn’t leave out the trendy Fall clothes for the little guys. Varsity style t-shirts, rugby polos, and plaid button downs can all be layered and mixed this season. Embroidered pants have also been brought back due to popularity. The boys also have a selection of messenger bags with matching lunchboxes as well. To tie the look together, varsity and mid top sneakers with bright neon laces are available.

Here are a few of the outfits I picked out for Toodie. No surprise, I spent forever picking and choosing my favorites. I fell in love with the dresses! Since she is tall for her age it’s sometimes hard for me to find dresses and skirts that are long enough. These were all a nice length and fit very well. I love that the material is light because even in the Fall it is still very warm where we live. Do you see a pattern here? PURPLE! I bet you would have never guessed it’s mommy’s favorite color.

As always, The Children’s Place is offering a huge selection of cute clothes to keep our kids fashionable and comfortable in the Fall. Make sure to stop by and check out their great sales before and after school starts. Stock up on the essentials or freshen up their wardrobe. Keep up with the new collections and promotions by following on Facebook and Twitter!

Disclosure: I received a gift card from The Children’s Place to shop their Fall fashions for Back To School. I will not be compensated for this review or sharing my experience. As always, opinion are my own!