West Valley, Arizona
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CityPass is a ticket book containing admission tickets to some of the country's most popular attractions - New York for example: Guggenheim Museum, MoMA, Metropolitan Museum of Art & The Cloisters, Museum of Natural History & Rose Center, Empire State Building, Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise or Statue of Liberty.
CityPass.com features booklets for 11 cities in North America: Boston, Atlanta, Chicago, Hollywood, Houston, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Seattle, Southern California, Toronto
It's a great tool for sophisticated parents! With CityPass, parents can nurture the art of exploration - picking a few featured items at each venue and creating a family scavenger hunt amongst fine art, dinosaur skeletons and meteorites. Also, with CityPass most attraction lines are bypassed - vital it is to keep things moving with kiddos in tow. The passes are valid for nine days, and even if you only choose to go to three spots, you are still saving money - important in times like these.
Perfect for travelers as well as locals looking for a "staycation" to enjoy the area's cultural attractions - and to draw people throughout the city, to witness its unique neighborhoods, streetscapes and energy.
If you are traveling to one of the many cities they cover, you will not be disappointed with these passes that get you into multiple museums and attractions.
Matchbox Construction Claw now boys are right in the middle of the action. Boys can use the working construction claw to grab items or dig in the dirt. Easy to use and attaches directly to the boys arm and features realistic Matchbox styling. 4 years plus
Price Range: $24.99 Purchase: Online & Toy StoresThis is a great toy for the beach or the backyard... it attaches directly to your child's arm and makes all the construction noises of a real crane as you dig and grab. Our kids loved it. You will want more than one to avoid the "it's my turn" if you have more than one child.
These are great artistic, creative products for little ones to use. All are non-toxic and safe.
Eco-dough: Eco-dough is an all natural alternative. Made with plant, fruit and veggie extracts! No chemicals, artificial dyes or metals. The containers are made from cornstarch and 100% compostable. Also it doesn't dry out like name brands. If it's left out overnight just add a few drops of olive oil and it comes right back! Great for party favors! Comes in a tube with 6, 3 oz. containers.
Website Price Range: 3.99-19.99 CAD Purchase: http://www.organicallyhatched.comGreat idea for little ones. No more worrying if they decide to taste their finished creation. The kids loved it.
Fizz 'n Find are palm-sized tablets that, when dropped into a bowl of warm water, instantly fizz and dissolve to reveal a fun collectable character. Kids watch in suspense, eager to catch the first glimpse of what was hiding inside their tablet. Valentine's Day Fizz 'n Find tablets contain different adorable kittens.
The tablet is packaged in a red and pink heart-themed wrapping. These retail exclusively at Target for $4.99, and are for kids ages 4+. Fizz 'n Find is a great gift for budget-conscious families who want to give their children something more substantial than a homemade Valentine's card but don't want to break the bank.
"Can I try it?" was the first response we received from our kid testers. A fun, simple and affordable Valentine's gift for kids.
Star in a TV show and compete through a series of challenges to show the world that you are the best young fashion designer! Express your creativity in numerous workshops, including Hair, Makeup, Clothing and Accessories. Use the Wii Remote? and Nunchuck? as scissors, hair brushes, makeup applicator and any other tools you need. Make all the right moves with the Wii Remote and Nunchuck as you model your designs in front of a fierce panel of judges. Also compatible with the Wii Balance Board? accessory! Design your fashions in Creation mode, then compete in the Fashion Reality Show. For even more fun, challenge a friend in all-new fashion design mini-games!
Website Price Range: $29.99 Purchase: Target, Wal-Mart, GameStop, Toys R UsYour daughter along with all her friends will have a blast rising to fashion stardom as the hottest new designers! They will want to spend hours creating the perfect outfit before they go before the judges.
Mud Pie Princess Tea Time for Two Tea Set (Packaged in a lovely heart shaped hatbox!) This set will make every tea party special! Seventeen piece ceramic tea set includes teapot with lid, creamer and sugar bowl, teacups, saucers, plates, forks and spoons in fun pastel colors and polka dots. For ages 5 and up. Visit www.mud-pie.com.
Website Price Range: $35 Purchase: Online Barnes and NobleThe perfect gift for your girly-girl. She will love this set for playtime with her friends or perhaps tea with her teddy bears. It is whimsical and fun.
Music Ace Deluxe combines 36 of the highly-engaging music lessons from the award-winning Music Ace and Music Ace 2 products into a single, carefully sequenced product.
Designed by music education professionals, Music Ace Deluxe is a comprehensive series of music lessons and games that teach beginning music students of all ages the basics of music theory, rhythm, pitch, note reading, listening, and the keyboard. No previous musical experience or instrument is required.
Under the guidance of animated tutor Maestro Max, students are led through a carefully sequenced series of music lessons. Used alone or as a complement to traditional music lessons, this program will challenge, engage and motivate music students and help them succeed by mastering important music concepts and skills.
Music Ace Deluxe also includes the creative Music Doodle Pad that allows beginners to easily compose and hear their own musical creations. The Music Doodle Pad alone provides many hours of fun and learning.
Website Price Range: $69.95 Purchase: Online
Learn music on your computer for ages 8 and up... Your animated tutor, Maestro Max will introduce your child to the basics of music theory, note reading and more.
Shimmer 'N Splash is the coolest water park ever! Polly can take a dolphin ride, cruise down the slide and make a splash with the dunk bucket and pool. When Polly hits the cold water, her hair changes from blonde to pink streaks. Now how cool is that? The playset also includes an ocean turtle friend to swim and splash along with Polly, a beach chair for catching some rays and a yummy tropical fruit smoothie for Polly to enjoy. It's a perfect playset for indoor or outdoor water play fun, to take to the beach or to play with by the pool.
Website Price Range: $18.49 Purchase: Toys R UsAlthough moms may find these small pieces frustrating to keep track of, girls 4-7 will be delighted with the latest Polly Pocket. Our testers loved that they could take it outside and fill it up with water and put Polly on the slide.
The Scrabble Valentine's Day Edition is available exclusively for the holiday and comes in a heart-shaped game box. Send out a special message using the card kit and game tiles contained inside the game box, such as "L-o-v-e, Y-o-u, F-o-r-e-v-e-r." With the leftover tiles, enjoy the classic cross-words game during a Valentine's Day night-in. The Scrabble Valentine's Day Edition is available at all mass retail stores for an approximate retail price of $9.99.
Website Price Range: $9.99 Purchase: Retail Stores and Online
This is the perfect Valentine Card and game all in one for that special someone. Kids would have fun with it as well since it is a small version of Scrabble with extra tiles included.
Kid-Tested Projects for Simple Sewing!
Website Price Range: $16.95 Purchase: Online
This is a super book for children aged 7 and upwards with projects to sew by hand or machine using clear illustrated instructions. It's bright and fun and packed with puzzles, games and jokes to make learning fun! The projects include board games, pillows, quilts, placemats and greeting cards which use a variety of threads, ribbon, fabric and felt, but best of all they are colourful and child-friendly which means they'll actually want to make them.
Parents interested in a Valentine's Day "stay at-home date night" after the kids have gone to bed should know about Stop & Kiss: A Card Game for Couples, which I created. Stop & Kiss is a fun way for busy couples (especially parents!) to take time out of their lives and celebrate their relationship.
Stop & Kiss features a number of different card categories, from "Relationship Rev-Up" and "Connection" cards, to "Complete the Thought." Each category directs the players to participate in an active conversation about a particular topic or to ask or answer questions about themselves and each other. There's even a "Wild" card in the deck, inviting couples to go wild and show how much they love each other. And, there are plenty of opportunities to Stop & Kiss!
They are steamy and romantic. These cards are wonderful because they help you go down memory lane as you bring the romance back with lots of great topics.
The Fisher-Price Deluxe Turbo Fill Blasters set features a one-stop, fast-fill water station that is easy, quick and fun. The unique, easy-fill water base automatically fills and pressurizes a Blaster in 15 seconds or less! The water blasters shoot water up to 30 feet and require no pumping action, making them easy for preschoolers to use.
Price Range: $34.99 Purchase: Online & Toy StoresAre you ready to get wet? This large water gun is lots of fun but it needs to be level when you shoot the water in order for it to work. It does not hold a ton of water but it is easy to refill.
This is a great gift but a bit pricey. If you are getting it for your own kids, you may want to grab a few extra spray bottles to fill with water so everyone has something to use.
Baby Massage: Soothing Strokes For Healthy Growth is a fun how-to for parents, families and primary caregivers of infants. It is presented in an easy-to-read spiral bound, flip-chart style format that allows the reader to learn hands-free while practicing the hands-on approach to baby massage.
Talk to Me - Happy Tunes for Healthy Growth is the perfect companion to her book, Baby Massage - Soothing Strokes for Healthy Growth. The songs underline key elements of healthy parent-infant bonding. The lyrics are an expression of our love and commitment to our children. The songs are meant to be validating, reassuring and a celebration. Each song has a message, and it is my hope that you and your child will carry these messages of love and admiration for one another throughout life. It is a basic human need to feel loved, wanted, understood and a part of something greater than ourselves. Purchase: You can purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 A wonderful book and CD for a new parent. The book makes it simple to do massage with your infant with the great visuals. Their website is also terrific with a lot of great facts and some demos. You can also listen to excerpts from their CD.
custom made baby ring slings for only $17.99. adjusts to fit mama or dada. holds baby in nearly every position - made for newborn to toddlers (up to 35 lbs).
WebsiteI recently bought a papoose sling! It was such a great price! I love it and it is made very well!!!
Cap Trappers are perfect for just about anyone. The versatile material allows it to fit any cap size from skinny to fat. Use a Cap Trapper to organize all your pens and markers, you'll probably never buy crayons again! Sort your flip chart markers from your dry erase markers by using a black and white Cap Trapper. You can eliminate wasted time looking for the right marker. Price: $5.99 Purchase: You can purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 These are great for moms, teachers and even the office to store your pens. What a treat... you no longer have to worry about lost caps. What we loved is how simple it is to throw a few pens in your purse for your kids to use. What a lifesaver. You can buy a set for each of the kids to keep their own pens and they hold thin and thick pens. We love these mom-invented products.
Mobile study and test preparation tool Cram, allows students to study on the go, on their mobile device. With Cram, students and teachers can create, share, and study test material for regular class exams, quizzes, and standardized tests such as the SAT and ACT. Cram has features that allow the student receive a grade instantly after taking a test and share a test with classmates on a related subject. The Cram grade reports detail the exact errors made during the test for each test question and shows the student the correct answer after test completion. With Cram, students get a free web portal, that allows them to create custom tests (besides the ability to create online) and distribute them to their classmates or teachers. $9.99 Purchase: You can purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 The concept is simple but you do need a cell phone to take advantage of it. There is also a great website portal where students can interact. Kids can literally study on the go by downloading software that will challenge them with questions and test material so that they can prepare sitting in a dentist office or waiting at the bus stop.
Creative College by Elaina Loveland aims to... Help students choose the right college to fit their unique needs as a student actor, artist, dancer, musician or writers; Aid students in understanding the important differences between BA and BFA programs and an education at a college, university or conservatory; Determine students' career path by focusing solely on the arts or choosing a double major; and Teach insider tips for the creative component of the admissions process -- an audition or portfolio. More than 125 art, drama, dance, music, and creative writing programs in arts conservatories, liberal arts colleges, and universities are profiled with information that is critical to making the best college choice, such as degrees offered, concentrations, faculty information, cost of attendance, scholarship availability, and alumni accomplishments. An appendix lists books, Web sites, and magazines that students might find useful in finding the right program for them. Price: $19.95 Purchase: You can purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 This is a terrific book for "creative" high school students wanting to explore their college options. It is a starting point for those students that are looking for a school with an emphasis on acting, art, dance, music and writing. It gives a list of schools, tips for going to auditions, writing resumes and doing essays.
The world's most curious monkey investigates new words in this lively picture dictionary for young children.
Curious George's Dictionary is an engaging picture dictionary specially designed for children from preschool through first grade. Both entertaining and educationally sound, it features charming illustrations and reflects recent research in early childhood literacy, setting it apart from other picture dictionaries.
The main part of the dictionary is an A-Z section containing approximately six hundred words, six words to a page. Each word is illustrated with a full-color drawing, most of which have been created for this book by the popular illustrator Mary O'Keefe Young. More than half the illustrations include a sample sentence that puts the word in a familiar context.
A four-page illustrated story at the front of the book shows George learning how to look up words in his dictionary, drawing children in while introducing them to dictionary skills. At the end of the book, seven one- to two-page illustrations present groups of words related by simple themes such as colors, shapes, and numbers. Price: $12.95 Purchase: You can purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 This is the cutest dictionary for young children (ages 4-6). Who doesn't like Curious George? The images that go with each word are fun and some extra features include teaching kids about calendars, shapes and colors.
The six new and updated titles in the Everything You Need to Know About...Homework series are the must-have information resources for successfully completing schoolwork at home. These handy guides contain the facts and processes fourth-, fifth-, and sixth-graders need to complete assignments, write reports, and prepare for tests. Researched in accordance with school curriculum and current textbooks, and created in collaboration with subject experts, these titles answer kids' most frequently asked homework questions. Price: $8.95 Purchase: You can purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 A favorite with the parents because these books have so many great facts to assist kids with homework and everyday questions. Some of us are challenged by the homework our kids bring home after reaching 4th grade so even parents can use the extra assistance. There are different reference guides... History, Math, English, etc. geared towards 4th-6th graders.
The Rule is that all Kids must memorize the basic adding and subtracting facts but because kids are allowed to use calculators, they have unfortunately easily ignored the memorizing rule. The Memory Wizard Cards are fun, easy and fast. They write on it, self-check on it and it's erasable. Better results than using flashcards.
There is also a Kids Memory Wizard Game Gift Set that includes the Memory Wizard Card, achievement award, gold stars, pencil, eraser and wrapping paper. For kids, 6 to 12 years old, the Kids Memory Wizard, makes an exciting, fun, Learning Game Birthday gift. $14.95/Gift Box Set $6.99/Single Wizard Purchase: You can purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 It took us a few minutes to figure out what we were reviewing but once we did, we were impressed. It is a very simple tool to master your math facts. There is an addition/subtraction card and a multipication/division card. Kids can work on them independently writing down their answers on an erasable card. We love how portable the cards are... you can keep them in your car for them to practice when you are out doing errands. We think this would be a terrific gift to a teacher for a classroom since they can be ordered in bulk. What a great tool for each student to have at their desk.
Give your locker a design makeover with Decorate Your Locker! This fully photographic book is packed with simple ideas for personalizing any locker with your own one-of-a-kind style. Cool pre-printed magnets make instant decorating easy, while peel-and-stick magnetic sheets can make almost any lightweight thing into a magnet. Price $9.95 Purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Games, Toys & Book Reviews - Fall 2008 A fun book for any tween or teen that has a school locker. Filled with magnets and ideas on how to create a "cool locker" at school. It gives you the opportunity to create a home away from home.
2 Plastic, double-sided, hand-held white boards with integrated marker holder, 2 sm. markers & erasers. Two-sided Dry Erase Paddle Sets. Created by a Teacher & Proven in the Classroom -- Cleans easily with soap and water; Includes low-odor, non-toxic markers; Made of durable plastic that holds up under frequent use; Promotes active learning across subjects in all grades; Saves paper. Price: $14.99 Purchase: You can purchase online or click here for retail locations.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 Fun for kids and useful for everyone! This could be used for so many purposes and our young testers are still testing on a daily basis because they think they are so great. There are lines on 1 side to practice printing. This is a great tool for a classroom (and they sell them in large batches). It is a fun idea for parents to donate to a class. Kids can use them to work out math problems, practice for quizes and it is more eco-friendly than using a lot of paper. It would be a great activity for someone stuck in a hospital bed. The only concern from our parent testers was the durabilty of the dry erase after consistent use.
Little learners love the sense of accomplishment when they learn to print their names. Our ‘Signature' self inking stamps, with a large 'dotted' font, promote printing in a engaging and interactive way. Each personalized stamp uses child safe washable ink to keep those little hands mess free while they enjoy printing their names on artwork, colouring pages, cards etc. Our educational products help the children in your lives develop early literacy skills while having fun! Price: $24.95 Purchase: You can purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 A great gift for any 3-6 year old that educates them without them knowing. What a fun way to teach kids to spell their names especially because parents do not have to sit there and write it out over and over! Our testers loved it and kept on stampin' because they saw it as a fun activity. The Little Stamp Company also offers a fundraising option where kids can sell these at school and raise money.
Head back to school in style with this officially licensed National Design NBA back-to-school kit! The kit includes a 7-piece Skinz sticker set, an 8-in x 10½-in spiral notebook with 60 lined sheets, a 12-in ruler, and a grip pen. The set also comes with a 3-piece wood pencil set, a 10-piece marker set, and a 3-in x 5-in flip pad with lined paper. The set is packaged in a 9-in x 12-in school portfolio. Price: $14.99 You can purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 Sports lovers will of course enjoy these fun back to school products for their desks. A fun gift to give any child basketball fan.
Create your own custom digital flashcards specific to your curriculum! Students learn better when lessons are repeated. To help facilitate learning, Hamilton Electronics has introduced the Study Buddy, an electronic, interactive and customizable learning system. Study Buddy helps students from pre-K through high school create their own talking flash cards using visual and auditory cues to reinforce learning.
Study Buddy also allows teachers to create original, customized curriculum materials for their classrooms. Create a lesson or activity in minutes that meets the needs of individuals or small groups of students. Using dry-erase pens, photographs, graphics and/or original artwork that is prepared on reusable electronic cards, teachers can record an accompanying voice instruction that is unique for each card. By combining voice and graphics, student learners can work independently with the card sets on a variety of topics. Card reader kit - Includes 1 audio card reader/recorder & 36 re-usable, laminated double sided cards. (Max memory: 72 cards.) Price: $69.75 Purchase: You can purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 Technology can even make learning fun with a talking flashcard. We thought this was a great tool but also found that it takes a bit of time to get it set up for kids. For younger kids it is nice because they can hear their parents voice on the recorder when they are checking their answers. For older kids, it is a great tool for preparing for tests and memorization because they can set it up themselves. Once they have conquered the lesson, they can erase everything and start fresh.
The best dictionary for back-to-school comes in an all-new fabulous fashion design. Compact and portable, it is perfect for home and school. Clear, concise definitions of the words students need to know make this an invaluable reference they will use every day. You have 2 options for covers in a dictionary, thesaurus, or Spanish/English dictionary. Price: $3.99 Purchase: Online or K-Mart, Target or Borders
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 When did dictionaries become cool? These are stylish, compact and perfect for any backpack.
The Messenger Laptop Bag comes in several colors and patterns and has a fully padded zipper back pocket for laptop; spacious interior compartment; divider pockets under the flap for pens and small items; flat open pocket on the back for magazines/papers; removable adjustable padded shoulder strap. Fits up to 15.4" laptops. Dimensions: 14x12x4 Price: $135 Purchase: You can purchase online or click here for retail locations.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 We loved this bag! It is hip, fun, stylish and all around great for any woman. I love the way the laptop fits into the back pocket leaving you plenty of room for papers in the interior compartment. My old bag only fit my laptop and I always had to carry an additional purse to hold a wallet and sunglasses. I took it out for a little test drive and received several comliments. A little pricey but a bag that you will want to use often. You will want to check out their site to see all their products including laptop cases, carry-on luggage and gadget accessories. Another item that looks great is their iPod/Camera case that could also hold a cell phone. Perfect for when you are out with the kids and don't want to carry a purse.
Our personalized children's lunchboxes make carrying food more fun! These individually crafted lunchboxes feature a personalized name or initial and what child doesn't love seeing their name monogrammed? So let them eat up in style with these children's lunchboxes! The lunchbox is 8"X7"X4", lead-free, food safe and the designs are water-resistant. Price: $30 Purchase: You can purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 These old fashioned lunchboxes are adorable and the only problem you will have is deciding on which fun pattern to choose. The young girls we tested them on loved them. The moms felt they would make great gifts and work well as a place to hold art supplies. It is hard to imagine them working well as an actual lunchbox since there is no insulation to keep food items cold.
Designer Sleeve Laptop Cases are a fun yet functional way to protect your laptop computer. Designer Sleeves Laptop Cases are composed of thick, durable neoprene rubber that cushions your laptop for maximum protection. The sleek design safely slides in and out of your backpack, briefcase or luggage with ease. They are perfect for life on campus, business travel, everyday work, or vacation. Best of all, the natural rubberized feel of the wet suit material is fun and functional, while providing natural moisture, shock and scratch protection. Exterior zippered pocket. Several styles and sizes for all laptops. Large variety of designs or you have the option to brand sleeves with a logo or message for businesses or schools. Price: $35+ Purchase: You can purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 These sleeves are a great gift idea for kids and teens (and adults) to protect your laptop. There is a huge selection of designs to meet everyone's needs and styles. The neoprene fabric makes it sporty and also has the added benefit of being water resistant. The outer pocket is handy for carrying papers. Their larger professional sleeves come with a shoulder strap.
Eastsport has a new backpack, called "Air Pack," that addresses safety concerns with kids carrying heavy bags.
Air Pack backpack: Has a built-in, adjustable air pillow in the lower back to relieve pressure from heavy contents. It was designed with today's youth in mind, knowing they carry bags stuffed with school books, sports gear, computers and more. The Air Pack is super light-weight and durable. Price: $19.88.
Another new bag collection by Eastport, called "Natural," appeals to parents and families interested in eco-friendly products, bags are 100% biodegradable. The Natural collection: Totes, messengers, duffels and more are 100% biodegradable, made with 100% biodegradable materials - fabric, hardware and dyes. Eastsport is not interested in the claim "organic," as that has no set standards, but in being truly 100% natural and eco-friendly. Even the hang tags are "natural" - plant them and wildflowers will grow! Price: $40-60. Purchase: You can purchase online or click here for retail locations.
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ParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 The "air pack" is a great idea for kids although it is hard to tell how durable the little air pouch is. The size works better for older kids and teens. The ability to store your skateboard on some of the styles is a nice feature and you cannot beat the prices!
Although the Eastsport Natural Collection totes were spacious, we were not impressed with the expensive price for such a basic bag. We know that often you pay more to go organic but there really were no unique features to these "natural" duffels and totes. They would work well as diaper bags or a catch-all bag for travelling.
My son uses his backpack and loves it. It has been great when we go on the airlines since it keeps everything together and he can strap on his skateboard. [John 10/02/08]
The Jimi wallet is a compact, colorful, and water resistant answer to the stodgy outdated leather wallet. It's designed to slip into your front pocket, purse, or around your neck on a lanyard. If you like cash, JimiX forgoes the internal money clip for a higher capacity and more robust external money clip. And what to do with those pesky, easy-to-lose memory cards? Try an SD card clip for your Jimi wallet or a Jimi Multi Media memory card case, which holds a whole range of different memory card sizes. And just launched the Jimi Game Shell. A compact, attachable case that carries DS, PSP games and Sony memory sticks. Purchase: You can purchase online or click here for retail locations.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 An interesting idea. We tested it with kids, dads and moms. This recyclable wallet is great for the person who hates wallet. Compact so it can be great for sports activities. The popular item with the kids was the Jimi Game Shell case that can hold DS & Wii cards which is excellent for travelling.
Waste-Free Lunch Kit - Reusable, waste-free lunch kit includes recycled cotton sack, cloth napkin, 16 oz. stainless steel beverage bottle, food kozy, and two stainless steel food containers. $40 Purchase: You can purchase online.
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ParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 This is a nice option for a lunch box with proportional containters. It is great looking and will instantly make you feel environmentally responsible. The food kozy is interesting and is meant to replace plastic wrap - you simply fold the koz around your sandwich and then wash it off at night. The only negative is not having an insulated bag to keep the food cool. At $40, it is also an expenisve lunch kit.
I love the stainless steel containers, and the food kozy is ingenious. The kits are great! My kids love them! They are teaching me on how to REUSE. [Christy 12/22/08 Parent]
From Kristine Accessories, the original flat wallet is a functional and inexpensive gift to give for Valentines Day. Voted as one of the best fashion accessories in '07 by Gift Beat Magazine, the flat wallet is sized 7 inches wide 4.5 inches deep and one-quarter inch high, the wallet resemembles a thin clutch but opens to reveal a zipper pouch for change, along with pockets for credit cards, id, and cash. Wallets also come in a larger clutch style and include pen, paper and room for checkbook. There are several patterns including a tooled patent in red, black and green (pictured) as well as many more styles and colors to choose from.
Website Price Range: $22-$32 Purchase: http://www.blackcatplus.comIt's hip, stylish and fun. Practical? We are not sure... great for a night out or a quick run to the store because you can use with or without a purse. The negative we found is that with the hard case it may not be ideal for that mom on the go that does not have time to keep it organized. We do think it would be a fun gift to receive.
The product line is a complete range of handbags, travel bags, totes, messenger bags, backpacks, attaches and accessories. The Collection's trademarks are sporty American styling, a wide color and print assortment and lightweight functionality with high performance fabrics and hardware. The LeSportsac Basic Backpack includes a zipped main closure, padded back and bottom, side pocket with zipped closure, front pocket with zipped closure, and an adjustable padded shoulder straps Price: $50 Purchase: You can purchase online or in retail stores (Macy's).
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 Le Sportsac has a huge selection of bags and takes me back to being a kid since these seem never to go out of style. We tested out hte Basic Backpack with the Meow print and our young testers though it was terrific. There are several styles and lots of fun prints. Although moms loved this fun and lightweight backpack, they found the price a drawback. $80 can be a bit steep for a school bag. We did not get a chance to test but we did think the men's bags were impressive and would be great for dads with the the styles ranging from messenger bags to duffles.
Modeez bags are designed to protect and organize your tampons, pads, and panty liners - stylishly, of course! Moodeez will hold 4-5 tampons. Just add a couple of panty liners or a pad, and you are good to go! Price: $14.99 Purchase: You can purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 These are fabulous for teens and moms. They are the perfect little gift when your daughter first starts her period. A discreet yet hip way to take those little unmentionables to school or work. I would buy these as a gift for every woman I know. Check out the site to see all the fun designs.
Good things come in little packages. Like our small but mighty bottle of All Natural Shaving Oil. Made from essential oils, this tiny miracle (with up to 100 shaves in a half-ounce bottle) works wonders for both men and women on even the most sensitive skin. All Natural Shaving Oil offers a consistently smooth shave, reduces nicks and razor burn, and leaves your skin conditioned and moisturized. TSA travel sizes make traveling with it a breeze.
Shaving is no way to give blood. Let's face it - nicks are an inevitable consequence of shaving. Now you can stop the bleeding right away with this small but mighty Nick Stick. And with vitamins A & E and Aloe, it will help promote healing and soothe your skin, too.
Website Price Range: $6.95 - $22.95 Purchase: Online and select retailersGreat natural products for men that use a razor to shave. It is especially handle for the traveling man with the small sized containers.
Show your locks some love with ARROJO product! Brought to you by Nick Arrojo, the hairstyling host from TLC's popular makeover show What Not To Wear. The ARROJO revitalizing kit includes: moisturizing shampoo, moisturizing conditioner and detangling foam. This trio cleanses, hydrates and detangles all hair types, leaving hair silky, lustrous and ultra manageable - making styling easy.
Website Price Range: $38.00 Purchase: Online
This Valentine's Day, fall in love all over again with Essie's True Love Collection, featuring six of the brand's most romantic colors. Sweep him of his feet with passionately polished tips in one of six sexy colors; including Limo-Scene, Vanity Fairest, Fishnet Stockings, Bordeaux and Decadent Diva.
Website Price Range: $8/bottle Purchase: OnlineSo our first choice would always be going to a nail salon for a professional pedicure and sitting in those comfy chairs while our feet are massage and pampered. The reality with kids is that we are just happy to get nail polish on our toes at 10pm after the kids are in bed. These polishes are sassy and fun so brush it on and then slip on those heels for a night out.
Pediatrician-recommended MEDERMA for Kids is the FIRST and ONLY scar product for kids with a unique color changing formulation designed to involve kids in their scar treatment process. It reduces the appearance of OLD and NEW scars resulting from cuts, scrapes, stitches, burns, bug bites and surgery.
MEDERMA for Kids is greaseless, non-toxic and non-staining*. It's also easy to use, pleasant smelling and fun for kids. Just apply a thin coat to the scar, and gently massage it in three times daily. Use for eight weeks on new scars and three to six months on existing scars. MEDERMA for Kids is available in a 20g tube that lasts about three months on scars up to three inches long.
WebsiteI think every household can use a tube. How many scrapes do your children have each day with scooters, bikes and skateboards? Our kids and parents were all in favor of this scar cream. The kids liked the color and the smell. We did not test long enough to see it reduce the appearance of the scars. We would purchase the Mederma for Kids.
I liked this product. My son had 14 stitches and an ugly scar on his neck. After using this product, his scar didn't go away completely but it is hardly noticable now. I would definitely recommend. The only thing I didn't like was the expensive price for such a small tube. [Jillian Azevedo, Ventura, CA. 11/16/08 Parent]
Say "I love you" with Remi-D -- a new, all-natural, non-alcoholic hand sanitizer. Perfect for parents, teachers and kids who want to stamp out the germs that cause colds and flus. Remi-D dispenses with alcohol, which can dry out hands and ignite near flame. Its spray formula is also free of mess.
Website Price Range: $3-4 Purchase: Retail Stores and OnlineWe know it seems awfully practical for a Valentine's gift however during flu season it is really a great idea for keeping your loved ones healthy. It is a perfect size for purses and backpacks.
I gave Remi-D to the people I love most -- my wife, nanny and kids. They love it, and the kids do, too. It's not messy or sticky. The scents are subtle. And my wife and I don't have to worry about either germs OR alcohol content. [Billy, Raleigh, NC. 02/01/09]
Sharon Bolton luxurious scents capture the essence of the Polynesian Islands fresh and exotic lifestyle and the breezy seaside town of Santa Barbara reflecting a sense of luxury and intimacy it's known for. Our essential oil perfumes are a lush blend of pure natural essential oils and exotic perfume essences. These pure scents are alcohol free providing long lasting wear. Luv, Soul, Truth and now Dream are all heady, alluring tropical concoctions to be worn alone or layered; day or night. These exotic scents all contain notes providing uplifting, harmonizing elements for body and soul. We take great pride in the fact that our quality products are made in the USA including our soy candles, hand poured by master candle makers. All products are cruelty free and our packaging is 100% recyclable. We are conscious of the earth, children and animals and foster passion and creativity. Our product line includes Perfume Oil, Perfumed Body Lotion, Perfumed Shower Cream and Soy Candles.
Website Price Range: $26-$42 Purchase: Online and RetailersA beautiful line of products that will make you feel luxurious. Fill up the tub, dim the lights, light a candle and enjoy a night off while you pamper yourself with these products.
Treat Beauty turns bath time into a sweet indulgence of healing waters with new Organic Cocoa Butter Bath Bon Bons. These gourmet chocolate truffle shaped confections melt in warm bath water to soften and soothe dry skin.
Website Price Range: $14 Purchase: amazon.comFabulous and moisturizing!
Remember when life was all about killing your dinner, protecting your family, and finding a good cave for the winter?
The 28 WEbook authors of 101 Things Every Man Should Know How to Do don't either.
But when it comes to modern manly must-knows-like growing a beard, bribing the cable guy, and looking good in a Speedo-they've got you covered. This new manthology teaches men everywhere how to escape an alien abduction, fight a bear, and interact with crackheads. For friends, loved ones, and colleagues, this is the one-stop reference for man-tastic advice in a mundane world.
Website Price Range: $12.99 Purchase: Online
Guys will have fun reading this book and wives may want to read it over their shoulder. More ideal for the younger man who is still dating and figuring out life but there are tips that every man can learn from.
September 2008 New Release - Baby Loves Salsa: Salsa para los gatitos y perritos (Salsa for Kittens and Puppies) - a band of cats and dogs that create the ultimate special sauce (salsa especial). this is a musical treat produced by grammy winning producer aaron levinson (salsa album of the year 2006) and performed by an all-star band. with lessons in spanish, and music that your kids (and you) will love, baby loves salsa is a tasty treat that you'll be excited to meet. (Ages 2-6 years) Purchase: You can purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Games, Toys & Book Reviews - Fall 2008 Kids will have some fun rockin' to salsa with to this CD and learning some Spanish at the same time with a picture board book to go along.
This NEW second book in the Daddy's Heroes series tells how the New York Mets pulled off one of baseball's most unbelievable comebacks in the Game 6 of the 1986 World Series against the Boston Red Sox. The Mets, including players like Mookie Wilson, Gary "The Kid" Carter and Ray Knight, sent Bill Buckner and the Red Sox fans home in disbelief as they wondered if they will ever be able to break "The Curse of the Bambino."
Book 1:
Daddy's Heroes: Gibby's Homer, 1988 World Series
A children's picture book celebrating Kirk Gibson's homerun in Game 1 of the 1988 World Series and the Los Angeles Dodgers' miraculous victory over the Oakland A's. Check out www.daddysheroes.com or Amazon.com
WebsiteA great book to encourage dads to read to the kids
By: Sandman Records
Original lullabies guaranteed NOT to drive parents crazy! Volume 2 features former Mercury Records artist, Gene Miller (you've heard him in "The Lion King II").
Winner of 7 children's music awards.
Available in Santa Barbara at Borders Books, Due Maternity, and In a Nutshell (at the Waldorf School), and online at www.DreamWithMeTonight.com.
Over 4,000 years of relationship/marriage success are documented in the elegant coffee-table book "Everlasting Matrimony: Pearls Of Wisdom From Couples Married 50 Years Or More." 75 couples married 50+ years, the voices of experience, give "real-life advice" on creating and keeping a lasting, loving union. Husbands and wives are interviewed separately. Sprinkled with nostalgic and years-later photographs. Hard cover. 160 pages
Website Price Range: $39.95 Purchase: www.EverlastingMatrimony.comWhat a romantic and special gift to look through. When you see these photos of more than 75 couples from when they were first starting out to 50 years later in their marriage. We enjoyed the wonderful reminders of what is important to focus on in your marriage... "Friendly...enjoy life, make each other laugh." or "Courteous... to each other, and especially among other friends." It is basics that we hope for on our wedding day when we think of growing old together but often forget once the honeymoon is over.
The book Monster Spray can help your child deal with and overcome the common childhood fear of monsters. When children start remembering their dreams they often have a hard time separating dreams from reality. It is important to give your child a concrete way of combating those fears. The character in the story was able to get rid of the monster by spraying it with secret monster spray. Not only will your child relate to the character, but they will also be able to use monster spray to get rid of their own monsters. This is a lighthearted story that portrays monsters to be annoying rather than scary which will also help to relieve your child's fears.
This is a great book! I wish I had it when my kids were younger and facing these fears. The best part is that there is a monster spray bottle that parents & kids can use to keep those monsters away. The book has fun illustrations. Just the thing every child needs to get over the fear of monsters under the bed or in the closet.
Moon (Jump Into Science) - A charming cat and his firefly pal take young readers on a delightful romp to learn all about the Earth's moon. Through the use of simple yet engaging text and exuberant artwork, the book shows children how the moon interacts with the sun, how it seems to change shape in the sky, and how it glows. During their colorful, guided tour, kids also will learn about humans' first trip to the moon and what we found there. There's even a fun experiment at the end of the book that shows young scientists how to make craters and understand more clearly how they formed on the moon.
National Geographic Bee Official Study Guide, 3rd edition (ages 9-12) has been created to help kids prepare to compete in the Society's annual geography competition. Featuring maps, photos, graphs, a variety of questions actually used in past Bees, plus an extensive resource section, the guide not only reviews geographic facts but also helps readers recognize themes, identify relationships, and understand how geographers think. In this updated edition all statistics have been revised to reflect the most up-to-date figures. New question rounds have been added, as well as new tips from Bee winners on how to study. Resources have been reviewed to ensure the most current offerings.
National Geographic Little Kids Magazine - Today we're proud to introduce a brand-new magazine to help you enrich your preschooler's early learning adventures. This innovative magazine is full of learning and fun for youngsters (ages 3 to 6) and their parents. Bursting with lively photographs, engaging stories, and interactive picture games, each issue supplies you with fresh and imaginative teaching tools brought to you by National Geographic. Features rich content, large text, and fun activities. Captivating stories and interactive games-covering amazing animals, cool science, families around the world-encourage children to read, learn, and explore. Plus each issue comes with Wild-animal Cards! One year subscription of 6 colorful issues for just $15
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 The National Geographic KIDS books are great for both a home library and teacher classrooms. Perfect gift to give a child or a teacher. Animals, nature, science and space... every subject is covered and the books are fun, visual and comprehensive. Kids from 4 years through high school can find something that appeals to them. One of our favorites is their magazine for kids. Click on their site to see the many choices.
A book, printed on and bound by recycled paper, that has a different quote by peaceful leader Mahatma Gandhi on every page. (Imported from India.) most appropriate for teenagers and parents. I design and retail high end women's clothing, but was so taken by the value of this book that I incorporated it into the offerings of my New York City boutique. It is such a great product that I almost forget that it is printed on recycled paper. It gets extra points for that!
Website Price Range: $24 Purchase: OnlineIt's a wonderful gift to for a young person who is beginning to philosophize about life and the world.
"Making the decision to have a child is momentous. It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body."
If words could describe parenthood, these by Elizabeth Stone may just sum up the experience for many parents.
Meanwhile, Playwright George Bernard Shaw has given us the much broader observation that, "Perhaps the greatest social service that can be rendered to the country and to mankind is to bring up a family."
Perhaps as much has been said about being a parent as there are drops in the ocean but one thing is certain - one can not really know what it is like being a parent
until one actually becomes, themselves, a parent.
Compiled from the wisdom of 3000 years of living and life, this book seeks to personify the joys and experiences common to all parents and to celebrate the bond between
children and their parents.
What nicer Valentine's gift could a child (or a spouse) give to a parent than a lovely gift books disigned to honor and celebrate parents and their children. This title, along with our other popular Quotes on Children and Chidhood, make the perfect matching set for any parent to recieve on that special day.
Rock 'n' Roll Camp for Girls by Carrie Brownstein -- Girls, get ready to rock! Since 2001, the Rock 'n' Roll Camp for Girls has taught legions of girls, ages 8 to 18, how to let loose and rock out. This book brings the camp's inspiring, hands-on approach and advice from its all-star crew of female musicians to girls everywhere. Fun and informative features offer instruction and tips on how to play instruments, write songs, publicize a show, sing your heart out, and much more. Featuring a short history of women in rock, 50 awesome illustrations and photos of young bands, and contributions by members of Sleater-Kinney, the Gossip, Mirah, and others, Rock 'n' Roll Camp for Girls will have readers turning up their amps in no time. $14.95 Purchase: You can purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Games, Toys & Book Reviews - Fall 2008 If your daughter loves music, then she will love this book. Great book for any tween and teen girls that enjoy music. They will be inspired to start their own band. It covers everything they would want to know and in a fun and hip style. They will learn everything from organizing their band to promoting it and even how to write their own songs.
The perfect book for every boy from eight to eighty. In this age of video games and cell phones, there must still be a place for knots, tree houses, and stories of incredible courage. The one thing that we always say about childhood is that we seemed to have more time back then. This book will help you recapture those Sunday afternoons and long summers - because they're still long if you know how to look at them. You'll find find famous battles in these pages, insects and dinosaurs - as well as essential Shakespeare quotes, how to cut flint heads for a bow and arrow, and instructions on making the best paper airplane in the world.
WebsiteParentClick Games, Toys & Book Reviews - Fall 2008 As the mother of two boys (and one younger princess!) I was initially scared by the title of this book thinking that my boys had plenty of opportunities for danger on their own. However, all it takes is a quick glance at the Table of Contents and a flipping through of the pages of the book to realize this is a GREAT book for boys! The author has compiled information ranging from history lessons to how to perform cool tricks with coins. Both of my boys love this book and I love that they will pick it up and read without any prompting. I highly recommend this for boys 8+.
BusyBodyBook's Weekly GRID format is the easy and efficient solution to every Mom's scheduling chaos! BusyBodyBook family calendars provide each family member with their own column to organize and track their schedules and activities while coordinating with each other side by side. They are versatile. Assign spare columns to household projects, babysitter instructions, meal planning, personal goals, holiday or vacation preparations,important clients, kid's school subjects and extracurricular activities. $17.95
BusyBodyBook Fridge GRID Pads (for either Back to School or the 2009 Calendar Year) are all designed by a busy mom just like you. The magnetic 7-column UNdated BBB Fridge Grid Pad, with even more space to plan side by side, conveniently posts on the fridge and provides a clear, coordinated view of everyone's comings and goings! Or use columns to: create a family chore chart; assign columns for weekly meal plans; manage your daily diet or design your personal fitness program. also the perfect desk size - 11 x 8-1/2, and a slim 52 pages. 3-hole punched and fits in standard 3-ring binders. $11.95
Wall Calendar: The BusyBodyBook award-winning Weekly GRID format is the key. Seven individual and spacious columns give each family member their own designated place to plan their schedules while coordinating with one another, side by side. No double booking, overbooking or overlooking! a week-per-page layout that can hang as a one- or two-week view, two six-months-months-at-a-glance pages to help plan ahead for the holidays, vacations, or special events, a page for next year's important appointments and events. key contacts pages for your emergency contact information and the phone numbers of doctors, coaches or babysitters, a 4-inch pocket on the inside back cover to hold important papers, receipts or coupons. $14.95 Purchase: You can purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 A stylish and functional way to stay organized. These calendars are fantastic! There are doodle spaces for keeping notes. They have great remdinder tips for each week on things every family needs to remember... as simple remember to change out the batteries in your smoke alarms. The grid system is so logical for any family. Each family member has their own slot so tracking after school activties, doctor appointments and more is easy. A busy working mom could also use the grid to track family, volunteer, and work commitments.
Mead Pretty Please 4-1-1 Trend Montly Desk Pad: Flowers, bees, and dragonflies in fabulous designs on every page of this fun desk pad. This 12 month calendar (August-July) includes 6 sticker sheets. Use as a wall or desk calendar. Price: $7.49
Five Star Desk Pad, Large: Be prepared each month for appointments, events, and other student activities. Monthly format is 17"x22". This 12 month calendar (August-July) includes tabs, pen holder, and 500 planning stickers. Price: $17.99
Mead 4-1-1 CustoMYize Weekly Assignment: All of the planning features students need to get organized - plus a fun and fashionable cover you can personalize! Clear photo pockets on cover to add your own pictures. Price: $8.19
Mead Mom School Organizer: Wall calendar with stickers for marking. Pocket for holding notes, tickets and invites. 12 months - Starts in January. $11.99
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 The perfect calendar is so hard to find and also a personal decision. We had fun trying out these 3 by Mead with our 10 year old testers. The Pretty Please model is great for the price and perfect for a child's desk or bulletin board. Playful fonts and lots of stickers for marking events.
The Five Star desk pad is an excellent choice for families. It is simple but the feature we loved were the removeable tabs that allow you to put your events on the tab rather than writing directly on the date. If the event changes, you simply move the tab. The weekly assignment is a great tool that can fit into a 3-ring binder. It is a no-frills calendar that has plenty of space for writing and gives kids the opportunity to personalize with photos on the cover photo pockets.
Swee'Pea Museum-Quality Posers are high quality posters made from your child's very own artwork. Using their precious masterpieces as the basis for the design, they scan & then use them to create a truly personalized & unique poster that becomes a piece of cherished artwork onto itself.
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Paul Frank Julius Journal -- This journal features the iconic monkey, Julius, stitched on the cover. Includes a zippered pocket on the back cover and snap closure! $14.95 Purchase: You can purchase online.
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ParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 This was a hit with our tween testers. The monkey reminded the girls of Bobby Jack and they were sold! Great as a a journal or a doodle pad. Check out the Chronicle Books website because they have tons of great gifts for kids.
Having a bad day? Babo's got your back! With a high-quality plush and embroidered cover, this quirky journal will bring a smile to any Uglydoll fan. Journal is 6-3/8 x 7-1/8 in; 96 pp ; embroidered plush cover, for all ages. Hardcover - Published in March, 2008. Price: $14.95 Purchase: You can purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 Uglydoll? What a name but we had to admit the line of products is fun and something kids and teens would enjoy. They have everything from ugly dolls, to journals, to t-shirts. The journal is this soft, furry cover with an uglydoll image and would be a great little to do notebook as well.
Me to We: [Responsible Style] is a new social enterprise that is committed to providing ethically manufactured, quality apparel for the socially-conscious consumer. Our product line is domestically produced, sweatshop-free and made using certified organic cotton and bamboo. Our mission at Me to We: [Responsible Style] is to empower consumers to make purchasing decisions that lead to a better life for people around the world. By manufacturing our clothing in Canadian factories that pay adult workers a fair wage, we ensure that parents make enough to care for themselves and their children. By using organic cotton, we ensure that toxic chemicals aren't harming people, animals or the earth we share. And by donating 50 per cent of our profits to Free The Children, we ensure that a better life is created for children and their families in rural and impoverished areas across the globe. Do you need clothing for your school or university? Outfit your school or university's sports teams, bands, clubs and other groups in eco-ethical apparel that resonates with the values held by today's socially responsible youth. Can customize any of our organic cotton and bamboo blanks with screen printing and embroidery. T-shirts, tank tops, hoodies, and more. Price: $34.50/T-shirt Purchase: You can purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 These are soft cotton shirts with a great message both on their shirt and with their company philosophy. Although they are a little expensive, the quality is great and we were excited to read that they donate 50% of their profits to Free The Children.
Booda Brand aims to put children under their spell with the launch of a t-shirt line evoking the power of uplifting language, and combining it with visually stunning world imagery and an empowering message of social change. Every little boy and girl wearing Booda Brand proudly carries the statement "I Will Make a Difference" and staying true to that promise Booda Brand will gift ONE book to a child in need for every purchase through the organization Room to Read.
Website Price Range: $28-$32 Purchase: Online"Imagine" or "I will make a difference" or "Courage" are just a few of the choices available to kids. What great messages for our children. They are both encouraging and uplifting for kids as they start their journey in life.
Our only complaint is that they do not come in larger sizes for older kids.
Get the essential active wear and then some in our 2BActive Kit. Our exclusive all-in-one kit includes a Roundneck Tee, Long Pant, Headband, and logoed drawstring bag.
Website Price Range: $23-$120 Purchase: OnlineWe reviewed the workout headbands which were great when we went running. (yes for exercise but they also worked when we were running after the kids)... Made with silky, moisture wicking fabric, FIT2BMOM's headbands are designed to wick moisture away from your skin to keep your hairline cool and dry all throughout your workout, daily activities and beyond! Assorted colors.
JUST BE is a state of mind... a way of life... a philosophy to live by. Here you can express how you feel... or how you would like to feel. Just Be is a new line of graphic tees not meant to inspire...but to Just Be. The tees allow people to express how they feel or how they would like to feel. Sayings such as... (infant) Be a Blessing, (boy) Be Muddy, (girl) Be a Princess, (woman) Be Fabulous (man) Be Cool - Sayings are paired with large illustrations, inspired by vintage poster designs and styles. Sizes for infants to adult. Price: $15-$20 You can purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 Fun shirts and great sayings for everyone in the family to express themselves. A fun and fresh reminder to "just be". Shirts are a nice weight and quality but seem to run a little on the small size.
This fair trade bracelet was made by artisans in India who work with WorldFInds, a fair trade company committed to ensuring the social and economic progress of the artisans.
Their fair trade products represent a fusion of East and West; traditional techniques applied to current style trends. Their concern for social welfare ensures that many of the employees have access to ongoing education and training, health care services, subsidized meals, day care, schooling, and HIV/AIDS awareness.
Website Price Range: $16.00 Purchase: OnlineA fun and stylish bracelet that in turn raises money for a great cause. Check out their website to see other great jewlery at really affordable prices.
For Boys... Stride Rite SuperBall II A/C - Put extra spring in his step with footwear innovation from SuperBall®. From toe to heel, this cool pair features full-foot SuperBall® technology for flexibility and a lightweight EVA midsole for extra comfort and cushioning. Price: $65 For Girls... Superball Low Profile II H&L - With a fashionable style and SuperBall® technology, this pair is perfect for being sporty on the playground and looking cool in school. A SuperBall® component in the heels ensures maximum energy return on impact, too, so she'll stay comfy wherever she goes. Price: $55
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 My son, 8 years old, has started wearing StrideRite's new SuperBall 13 II shoe. As a mom, I like this shoe because it is easy for him to put on and the colors are dark enough that it doesn't show all of the dirt. As for my son, he absolutely loves these shoes because they are comfortable and very lightweight; he also claims that they help him run faster! He has been a year-round Croc-wearer for the last couple of years and these are the first tennis shoes we have found that he chooses to wear over his Crocs. My only disappoint with these shoes is that the largest size they come in is a size 5! My daughter, 6 years old loves these hot pink tennis shoes. They fit her well and they are easy to slip on and off. As a mom, I have always been a fan of Stride Rite. Their shoes cost a little more but they also last a little longer! More importantly, they have great support and cushioning.
My son initially loved these shoes, but after a few times wearing them he said they make him feel off-balanced and hurt his feet. They are no longer a first choice for us! [Kim Young, Reno, NV. 11/04/08 Parent]
Grill Charms are similar in concept to the wine charm. These dime-sized solid stainless steel charms are placed in your food BEFORE grilling. The stems are serrated to stay in securely while moving, flipping and grilling like you normally would. Grill Charm your food prior to cooking to distinguish spices and flavors, steak temperatures, or to avoid health or allergy issues. When dinner comes off the grill everyone knows which one is theirs. There are various collections for different purposes but for this particular holiday, I think "The Spicy Collection" is the most fun for couples.
For chicken, or pork there is the Spicy Collection. If you like it Spicy, you charm your meat with the pepper on FIRE before you cook it. With Grill Charms? grillers can now offer Mild, Medium and SPICY sauces and rubs without any confusion or worry about mixing them all up. This is a great "tongue-in-cheek" guy gift. Along with a set of Spicy Grill Charms, maybe a few of his favorite barbeque sauces (mild, medium and hot) presented to your man? French Maids are so OUT, "spicy" women behind the grill are IN!
Dad tested, mother approved. Not a necessity but neither is a wine charm and look how dependent many of us have become on them when we entertain. We found that the "steak collection" was the most useful since we have friends who love it rare and others that want it well done. Unique and fun for the guy who takes his grilling seriously.
Barney Butter is an all natural almond butter that is sweetened with cane juice. There is no oil to stir back in and no need to refrigerate and it is easy to spread. Barney Butter was conceived by a mom, Jennifer Barney, who began making the delicious spread one jar at a time in her Fresno California home for friends, family and the neighborhood kids who'd come around. Everyone loved it and wanted more and so she launched her almond butter in 2006. There is smooth, crunchy and there are indivdual strip packets (perfect for school lunches). Price: $7.99/Jar Purchase: You can purchase online or click here for retail locations.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 This almond butter was recommended to us by a parent so we had to try it. It was a hit with both our kid and adult testers. Yummy...it is smooth and has great flavor and that is coming from someone who has always hated peanut butter. I would even eat spoonfuls of this out of the jar. Barney Butter is tasty for anyone but especially great for peanut-allergic kids who are allowed to eat almonds. Another positive is that it has more fiber and less saturated fat than peanut butter.
Enjoy Life gives you the boom CHOCO boom dairy, nut and soy FREE, allergy-friendly chocolatey bars. Dairy- nut-, soy- AND gluten-free, these rich chocolatey bars are choco-nificient and sure to please chocolate lovers of all ages. Made in a dedicated nut- and gluten-free facility. Purchasing: You can order online or in stores... click for a list.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 We had a mixed response on this chocolate bar from our kid testers. For kids with allergies, I think this would be a great substitute and a fit for your sweet tooth. Those kids that are comparing it to a Hershey bar are going to be disappointed. You can also find other great allergy-friendly foods... cookies, granola, trail mix, bagels, snack bars and cookies.
ParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 Bot is a flavored water for kids (and adults) that is natural, low in sugar and full of vitamins. There are no artificial flavors, sweetners or perservatives. Flavors includes grape, lemon, berry and orange. (gluten free) Price: $1.25/bottle Purchase: You can purchase online or click her to see a list of stores that carry Bot.
WebsiteFun, kid friendly packaging that makes drinking water a little more exciting. Our kids thought it was yummy and as a mom we have made it a priority to keep juice to a minimum. The only negative is that they are a little pricey at about $1.25 for a 12oz bottle. Giving Back: Contribute 1% of annual revenue each year directly to an (1% For the Planet) environmental organization that is part of the solution for a healthier planet.
Cherries Divine is a family-owned company that creates decadent, hand-dipped Valentine's Day treats at only 70 calories and no Trans fats! Made with a family recipe including a secret butter cream sauce, these sweet gifts satisfy chocolate cravings and entice the taste buds without widening the waist. The cherries come in white, milk and dark chocolate; of course the dark ones stand out for health nuts, as they boast the extra bonus of antioxidants. Featured on The Today Show, these decadent colossal sweets cost only $19.95 for a beautiful, embossed box of 12! They're sweet, economical and diet-proof--what could be better?
Website Price Range: $19.95 for 12 Purchase: OnlineAll you have to do is look at their website and you will be placing an order. These tempting chocolate covered cherries are a delicious gift for anyone. Use them for party favors and order in any number of themes to fit the occassion.
Doctors recommend that you eat 1 oz of dark chocolate every day to improve your health. Chocolate Prescription makes it easy to get your daily dose of chocolate! We package 1 oz bars of 72% dark chocolate in a 1 Week and 4 Week prescription so you can indulge your health every day. Our chocolate is a high quality, gourmet dark chocolate that is very high in cacao, but is not bitter - it's smooth, silky and delicious.
Website Price Range: 19.99 for 1 Week Prescription Purchase: onlineNow this is a prescription we can look foward to... a piece of dark chocolate everyday. This is a great gift anytime of the year for any loved one that enjoys dark chocolate.
Now you can have the same great coffee you enjoy at your favorite Crimson Cup Community coffee house, delivered right to your front door! Crimson Cup offers specialty, origin, flavored, and fair trade coffees in 12 oz bags. All coffees are roasted within 48 hours of shipment to ensure they are freshest beans possible. All online orders are shipped within 24 hours.
Website Price Range: $8.50-$10.05 Purchase: http://www.crimsoncup.com/buy.phpWow! Now, that is a cup of coffee. Strong, bold and tasty without the bitterness. We are serious about our coffee so it takes a lot to impress. We have not had a chance to enjoy one of their Ohio based coffee houses but what a treat for the rest of us that they ship to your household.
The natural way to flavor water.
It's a healthy, low-sugar drink mix - Flavrz is a concentrated drink mix to add to water. It is organic, made from fruit and sweetened, mainly with agave nectar. It is low sugar, less than half the calories of juice or soda. You can flavor to taste from a full flavored drink to a delicate hint.
It's a great value - You can mix your own healthy, planet-friendly drinks at home and it's a great value. One bottle of Flavrz Drink Mix makes 8 quarts of delicious low sugar drinks at regular strength. That's only $1.00 a quart.
It's good for the planet - Buying it as a concentrate saves on packaging and helps keep our planet healthy. You can add Flavrz to a water in a reusable container. Join the Flavrz lifestyle.
You can purchase a measured pourer to go with it that measure out exactly 1/2 tbsp each time you tip them over. They are loads of fun. Kids love them!
Website Price Range: $8/bottle Purchase: Online
Great idea for anyone trying to encourage their kids to drink less sugar. The flavor is tasty and it curbs your sweet tooth. It is so simple because you just add a little to your wanter and you are ready to go to school, to sports, or at home. Now there are some other ways this wonderful flavor can be used for moms... if you click on their site you will find some fun cocktail recipes as well.
I can't get enough of this stuff! It is so refreshing and I can drink it without the guilt of the calories and know that I am doing something good for my body. My Dr has been telling me for years to drink more water for dieting, diabetes issues, skin issues...etc....and now I finally do! Thank you Flavrz! [Mary Ellen, Boston, MA. 02/16/09 Parent]
Consider treating you and your loved ones to a warm, fresh Auntie Anne's pretzel this Valentine's season - - without leaving your home!
Auntie Anne's Make-Your-Own Pretzel Kit allows you and your family to mix, twist, and bake 10 Original or Cinnamon Sugar pretzels in your own kitchen. The kit includes all of the dry ingredients needed along with step by-step instructions. All that's needed is vegetable oil, non-stick spray and butter and you are on your way to a homemade treat ? with a twist! You can even send love notes by twisting your pretzels into hearts and arrows.
This is a fun and easy activity to do with the kids. Makes a great gift for a child as well.
Fretzels by Jill are gourmet chocolate-covered pretzels, individually hand-dipped in milk, white, or dark chocolate and covered with your favorite candy toppings or drizzled with even more luscious chocolate. You can purchase them in assorted flavors or join the Fretzel of the month club and it is delivered in half, whole & 2 dozen size boxes. There are also gift baskets available. Fretzels can be customized for your company to match your logo and/or corporate colors so they make great marketing and business thank you gifts. THe cost is not bad... $15/6 or $26/12. Fretzel of the Month Club ranges from $73-$124 depending on how long you do it for and how many you order. Purchase: You can purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 Chocolate meets pretzel... sweet and salty... sounds a little strange but the our kid testers (ages ranged from 5-10 years) thought these fretzels were great! Their favorites were the s'mores and the m&m covered. They were not crazy about the monthly flavor which was peanut butter & jelly. Those came in a cute little lunch box so the moms loved the packaging.
Fretzels are amazing! I brought a box to a friends housewarming party and they were the hit of the party. Definitely not just for kids - adults like them just as much, if not more! They make a great holiday gift or anytime treat. [Amy 09/18/08]
PomaCrans & OmegaCrans® FRUITACEUTICALS are made with premium Cape Cod Cranberries, power-packed with potent antioxidants and Type A Proanthocyanidins (PACs). This makes cranberries a SuperFruit with a wide range of potential health benefits. They are sweetened with cane juice.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 Delicious! Moms and kids loved them. They are tasty and they are filled with all the omegas! They are softer than others we have bought at the grocery store so one of our kids testers with braces did not have the frustration of having them stick. They are a great snack. We only wish they came in snack size pouches to make them easy to throw into kids lunches.
Next time your cooking up breakfast for someone special, use this heart-shaped silicone mold to turn their ordinary eggs or pancakes into a messages of love. An adorable idea for Valentine's Day or any day in between. Whether you make them for your kids or for your beau, a sweet stack of heart-shaped pancakes will make their heart melt.
Website Price Range: $4.95 Purchase: OnlineStart your morning off right...This is a great way to get your kids to eat their eggs. Easy to use for pancakes or eggs and so much fun to serve. You can really pile on the love by also adding the "I love You" Toast Stamper.
Note: This site has lots of fun gift ideas including "How well do you know your wife/husand?" Quiz Book.
Finally, a no-stir organic peanut butter that you can take anywhere! Ian's PB4me's (smooth & creamy or crunchy_ variety comes in handy individual-sized cups. So you can use them as dip for your favorite crackers, fruits or vegetables on-the-go.Dry roasted peanuts, organic palm oil,organic sugar & salt. Price: $5.49/6 cups Purchase: You can purchase online or click here for retail locations.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 We love anything that makes packing school lunches a little easier and it is a bonus when it tastes good as well! Ian's PB4me! is the perfect addition to any lunch box! Our testers thought both the crunchy and smooth were delicious. Perfect size containers to throw in as a snack with sliced apples, celery or crackers. Also an easy thing to keep in the car when moms need a little afternoon pick me up. (Mix it with a piece of dark chocolate and you have your own organic grown-up peanut butter cup.) There are other great all natural and organic food choices for kids on their site.You can also find allergen-free kids foods.
Now you can give your kids dessert that you can both feel great about!
BIG SECRET: Pssst! Don't tell your kids , but these brownies contain 4 servings of spinach and blueberries! That's a full daily dose of vegetables wrapped in a delicious brownies dessert!
The first brownie that was engineered by moms for kids who are picky eaters and have severe nut allergies, ADD/ADHD and special nutritional needs
Bring healthy, nut-free desserts with you to birthday parties, restaurants, wherever!
Add vegetables and valuable nutrients to you child's diet through great tasting brownies!
Our brownies are the only great tasting, nutritious, nut-free, low-sugar dessert that is rich in antioxidants, vitamins & minerals and contains vegetables.
These were not a huge hit with our kid testers but the moms thought it was a great dessert alternative.
Mary's Gone Crackers, Inc. is committed to manufacturing the best tasting wheat-free and gluten-free baked goods using the highest quality, organically grown ingredients. Their signature product is a cracker made with organic brown rice, organic quinoa, organic flax seeds and organic sesame seeds. Crunchy and flavorful, they come in 5 flavors: Original, Caraway, Herb, Black Pepper, and Onion.
The Sticks & Twigs are a blend of whole grains and seeds. They do not add oils or fats, so you taste the rich, toasty flavors of the grains and seeds. Contains a whopping 550 mg. of Omega-3s in every serving! Available in 4 mouthwatering flavors: Chipotle-Tomato, Curry, Sea Salt and Cinnamon. In two sizes: 8 oz. bag or single serve 1.25 oz. bags. Purchase: You can purchase online.
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ParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 Hmmm... these were not our favorite pretzels (sticks & twigs) because they are very grainy, however if you have a wheat allergy, I can see why these would be a great alternative. The kids enjoyed the sea salt and the moms chose the curry. The chipoltle tomato was interesting but we would not choose them again. These are higher in fat than what you normally experience with pretzels but they are... kosher, vegan & dairy free, wheat free, gluten free, and there are no trans fats!
Naturally More is all-natural, contains no cholesterol, and has no trans fats. Naturally More's unique formula has a peanut butter base fortified with flax seed, flax oil and other nutrients to provide all the protein and essential fats needed to keep the body naturally balanced. While normal peanut butter is almost exclusively monounsaturated fat, Naturally More contains omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids. It's What Peanut Butter Should Be! Price: $10 Purchase: You can purchase online or in retail stores.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 The plus is that it has less fat but more protein and fiber than most brands and it tastes good.
Tattoo Hearts Family Pack -- Why not pick the Pack? Treat favorite families (or anyone for that matter) to our new Tattoo Hearts design Family Pack filled with the delicious popcorn that made us famous, in White Cheddar, Cinnamon and Chocolate Drizzled Caramel flavors, along with sweet mini hostess pretzels, honey roast peanuts, chocolate chip cookies, Valentine Jelly Belly® beans, foil-wrapped chocolate hearts and 2 secret-recipe Popcorn Hearts. Add a custom photo label for even more love! $29.99
Popcorn Heart Decorating Kit -- Everyone loves our Popcorn Ball Decorating Kits, so we've taken that to heart and created a special Valentine's Day version. Each kit comes with 12 secret-recipe Popcorn Hearts and all the decorating candies you see here. Plus, we've included a candy writer for the project's oh-so-tasty "glue." $19.99
Website Price Range: $19.99+ Purchase: OnlineThis was a hit with our kid testers who immediately began assembling the popcorn decorating kit. What a fun and creative idea. It is affordable and would be great to take in as class activity for Valentine's. As far as the family tins, we loved the personalization with the photo of our kids on the top to send to grandparents. We are not crazy about a big tin just filled with popcorn which is why we opted for the family pack with the assorted items so there was something for everyone. We preferred the chocolate covered to the cinnamon popcorn which is an interesting concept after you get over sticking the bright red piece of popcorn in your mouth.
Portion control is greatly needed as "portion distortion" is sweeping the nation. This leads to the serious problem facing almost one-third of Americans today...obesity. The Portion Plate is an interactive tool for teaching consumers appropriate food portions. Unlike a text-based paper educational brochure, The Portion Plate is an actual melamine, dishwasher-safe plate that offers a tangible demonstration of how much food we should eat. Not only are the plate's illustrated portion areas a good guide to follow, but the make up of a good meal is also presented. This means 1/2 of your plate should be fruits and vegetables, 1/4 of your plate whole grains and the remaining 1/4 lean protein. The KID'S Portion Plate... The Portion Plate helps kids figure out portion sizes in a SUPERSIZED America. The plate teaches kids to eat better, so they can be better, learn better, play better, and do better! Studies show that portion control and visual cues can affect food intake and be an effective strategy for weight maintenance. It's a fun and simple way to build healthy eating habits that will last a lifetime. Price: $11.95/plate Purchase: You can purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 This is a way to make portion control fun for kids and parents. It makes you think twice about having a second serving. The visuals on the plate stimulate great ways to talk to your kids about why you should be eating more of certain things and less of others. We were not as crazy about the placemats for 2 reasons, they do not seem like they would hold up long over time and secondly they feel so commercial. They do include a lot of great information however for kids to read. One of our testers shared the following: "As a mom I realized when I was going to serve dinner that I was not always offering a balanced meal when I was filling up certain portions of the plate."
After coming up with the idea of stuffing the cupcakes, the delicious chocolate cake recipe was used with a peanut butter filling. Reese's is a favorite flavor combination for Keith. The result was instant success! The people at the brunch wanted to know what the next flavor was. Maureen and Keith went back to the kitchen and are now 102 flavors deep.
WebsiteDecadent, delicious and moist! Do we need to say anymore or can you imagine biting into one of these tasty cupcakes?
If Heaven serves cupcakes (and what kind of Heaven would it be without cupcakes?!), these are on the menu.
My brother and sister-in-law live in Nutley, home of The Petite Cafe, and came out to LI one weekend with these delightful masterpieces. Kudos to the chefs for making a gourmet dessert in such a cute, little package. And I couldn't believe how many flavors---website says 100 different varieties! Mmmmmmm...stuffed cupcakes....It's SO worth it! [Kristen Dascoli, LIParentSource.com, NY. 03/27/09 Parent]
The Gratitude Cookie TM by Zen Rabbit Baking Company is a delicious all-natural treat that is a cross between a butter and a sugar cookie. It also serves a greater purpose. Inspirational sayings are included in each box of thin, crunchy treats and encourage eaters to reflect on something they are grateful for each time they reach for another. Sending a box to someone you love lets reminds them how much they are appreciated. Additionally, since having the ability to read and comprehend what you read is certainly something to be grateful for, a portion of the company's profits goes to literacy organizations that work to help improve literacy rates in your community and around the world.
Website Price Range: $12.95 Purchase: http://www.zenrabbitcookies.comThese cookies are so delicious and taste like a piece of fresh shortbread. Especially when paired with a nice cup of hot tea. They are packaged so beautifully and with a wonderful message. Our favorite is that before you eat your cookie, you are asked "What are you grateful for today?" A cookie that gets you thinking positively.
Our new one-of-a-kind gourmet white truffle popcorn is available now and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings! This air-popped popcorn is made from the finest white corn and sprinkled with Black Périgord Truffles, the most expensive French truffles, and Summer Truffles. Also great with a movie!
Website Price Range: $8.00/bag Purchase: Online or Whole FoodsServe popcorn in style with this sophisticated flavor. Although not everyone is a fan of truffles, this popcorn is delicious and would be wonderful to serve as an afternoon snack with a glass of wine.
Ours Exclusively!!! Double dipped in velvety rich chocolate, S'more SmoochiesTM are Scrumptiously Delicious...Uniquely Nostalgic and Handmade to Order. The Classics, Pink Ribbon and all our mouthwatering collections delight the kid in everyone! Or, select colors, themed toppings and wrapping for upcoming celebrations and special events. Created with peanut butter. Available without.
Website Price Range: $16-$48 Purchase: http://www.theperfectpresent.net/S_more_SmoochiesIH6G.htmlYUUUUM! Sophisticated for the adult in you yet it brings back memories of being a kid. This is a fun and tasty treat for the whole family and a perfect gift to mail a loved one. (Note: Do not wait to eat them... they taste fresher the sooner you eat them.)
Buffalo Nickel WINGERS: the Unique Potato Wing Snack. They can be hot and spicy,or sweet and tangy, or anything in between. And there's nothing artificial about them. Flavors (& heat) include: Level 1 - No Bull Barbecue, Level 2 - Honey Mustard Horsepower, Level 3 - Nacho Chilichanga, Level 4 - Caribbean Zing, Level 5 - Fiery Buffalo Bleu. Purchase: visit website to find out where to purchase.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 Not a bad snack alternative... low in fat, made with potato starch and lots of fun flavors. The kid-tested favorites are the Barbecue and the honey mustard. Our kid-testers took these to school with them and got input from all the other 5th graders. The kids thought it was fun to see how spicy they could go.
thought they were awful! [Suzanne, hoboken, nj. 12/18/08 Parent]
50 High-Impact, Low-Care Garden Plants: Tough but Beautiful Plants That Anyone Can Grow
This is a great book about beautiful yet easy to grow plants that are perfect for busy parents (soccer moms and dads), and teachers. It's written in an easy, quick format and success in gauranteed. Compact size fits into large purses or backpacks to carry along for that long kids sporting event.
I wrote this book with the busy person in mind. I want parents to be able to enjoy the physical, emotional and spiritual benefits of gardening while raising their families but I don't want them to be enslaved by the work. These are also great plants to teach children about and help them connect with nature and be successful growing them.
Website Price Range: $16.96 Purchase: Amazon.com, Timberpress.com, bookstoresA beautiful book for anyone but the best part is even someone with a brown thumb can use it since the focus is on "low-care" plants. The pictures are beautiful and you will be able to go into your local nursery informed and find plants that anyone can grow.
The greatest clipboards in micro/mini and Big formats made of recyled wood and in fabulous colors and patterns.
Each micro (4x4) & mini (6x9) clipboard comes will a painted clipboard, a pencil on a ribbon, magnets on the back and a matching notepad with white perforated paper under the clip. The Big size (9x12) is painted on both front and back and comes with a pencil on a ribbon.
Our clipboards make great gifts for anyone who likes to stay organized in style! the perfect friend, teacher or tween gift for Valentine's day- add a note to one of our recycled wood teeny tags and tie it to the clipboard to finish off the perfect gift.
Elegant and playful for moms and kids. Keep a small one in your purse for your to-do list or give one to your kids to use for doodling and working in the car. A useful gift for anyone that will make it more fun to tackle those tasks.
Earthwise Kids Organic clothing and eco-friendly books are the perfect sustainable gifts for eco-conscious children. Our 100% organic cotton tees are made super-cozy and boast adorable images of wildlife printed on them with low impact dyes. Our tees are a perfect compliment to our educational children's books which explain to kids how they can help protect this wonderful world we live in! Choose from our inspiring Land, Ocean, and Wildlife super-comfy organic t-shirt and eco-friendly book gift sets. All gift sets come wrapped and ready to give in our reusable jute bags (no wasteful wrapping). Sure to please any 2-6 year old. Price: $32 Purchase: You can purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 Cute book for kids that teaches young children to be action oriented and show them the small steps they can make to help the earth. You have 3 design options for the child tee. You pay a bit more to have this organic product but it makes a nice gift with the packaging.
You will be inspired to scrapbook, make your own cards and just be creative when you go on this site for these wonderful notes and extras. They have a line of Valentine cards, notes and more. Our favorites are the Love Coupons to give to your spouse or kids. You get to decide what goes on the coupon.
Forget Flowers...Send Flip Flops! FlipFlopOGram.com has a wide selection of children's and women's flip flops from top makers and unique undiscovered designers. Every FlipFlopOGram comes beautifully gift packaged with free nail polish, foot buffer and personal notecard, gifts for tiny tots come wrapped with a beach ball. (Use coupon code: LOVEMYGIFT to receive free shipping when you order $26 or more.)
Website Price Range: $10-$115 Purchase: OnlineSassy! Cute! Original! and lasts longer than flowers. Ladies this is the perfect gift to send any women in your life age 10-100 for any occassion. Everyone can use flip flops and they come packaged with nail polish and a foot file.
Specializes in greeting cards to/from two or three kids. Initially for twins & triplets, but are great for any and all kids.
Website Price Range: $16.95 and up for pack of 12 Purchase: OnlineCute cards for every occassion and created by a mom of twins. The cards are great quality - check out their site for other fun products they carry.
For the cutest little Farmer you ever did see! Whether she's fingerpainting with peers, fishing with Daddy or baking cookies with Mom she really is Overall. . . Too Cute. Set Includes 6 Notecards & 6 Matching Envelopes. Each card measures 4x6 and is printed on 100lb Natural White paper. Can Be Personalized
Website Price Range: $13 Purchase: Online
Felix Doolittle stationery is unlike any other - each piece is like a miniature work of art. The Doolittle signature style includes full color illustrations, quality heavy paper, rounded corners and complementing illustrated envelopes. As friends and family receive your invitations and announcements, we hope our stationery conveys the joy with which it was created. 20 illustrated play date cards - 2.5 x 3.5 with rounded corners. Price: $30/20 cards Purchase: You can purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 These are the most adorable cards. They are sweet and childlike with an old-fashioned feel. This would be the best mommy gift to receive. Each set comes in a sweet box with the cards set in rafia. The only negative is the price at a little more than $1 each. As long as you don't make a lot of new friends, you should be ok.
The Scandle Body Candle is a candle that burns at 2 degrees above body temperature to produce a soothing oil for massage, manicures/pedicures, or as a daily moisturizer. Made from 100% natural & vegan ingredients, The Scandle comes in a refillable 10oz ceramic canisters with pour spout for $21.95 or 4oz travel tins made with recycled materials for $12.95. Spa treatment kits are also available.
Website Price Range: $12.95-$21.95 Purchase: online or retail shopsA warm way to moisturize and pamper yourself.
See's has been one of America's favorite candy makers and a tradition on the West Coast since 1921. The company has consistently maintained its old-fashioned virtues of quality, caring and friendly service, and offers sweet treats that are affordable.
Red Satin Heart - A romantic one-pound heart-shaped box featuring an assortment of See's most tempting confections. Lemon and Raspberry Truffles, Bordeaux, Divinity Puff, Caramel, and Milk Chocolate Butter are only a taste of what's inside this glamorous satin-covered heart. ($24.25 for 1 pound).
Traditional Red Hearts - Choose from a quarter-pound, half-pound, one pound or two pounds of Assorted Chocolates, Nuts & Chews or Soft Centers. With this selection, it's easy to find the perfect size and assortment for each person on your gift list ($5.75 for 4 ounces; $10.50 for half-pound; $19.50 for 1 pound; $36.25 for 2 pounds).
Peanut Butter Heart - Kids and adults alike will savor the classic combination of creamy peanut butter and yummy milk chocolate. ($4.35)
See's is a classic you can depend on with chocolates for every price range and appeal for every taster with their wide range of chocolates. Our favorites for gifts are their butterscotch lollypops. Yes, occassionally we use them as bribery with our kids when we need to get through the mall. They taste delicious and they take kids a long time to eat.
Sootheze is taking pain relief beyond traditional hot and cold therapy packs with Sootheze Toasty Spa Friends a full line of comforting, easy-to-use products that not only deliver heat and cold therapy, but also offer the calming, soothing, and stress-relieving benefits of aromatherapy for everyone, young or old.
Kids will love having their aches and pains cured by these cuddly animals. They are so easy to use since you only have to microwave or keep in the freezer and when you or your child have their next injury, teddy bear to the rescue. They have many animals to choose from. We like the cold function best since althouh they are cuddly they are a bit awkward for a large area such as your back.
The best kept secret in stress reduction, for moms and other female superheroes! Playing with color is deeply relaxing, meditative, incredibly fun (with no artistic skill required), and it's completely addictive once you start. This book, designed specifically for women has beautiful 9x12 inch art tablet sized drawings, and inspirational and sometimes humorous writings to go with the drawings. A great Valentines Day gift idea for a wife or girlfriend -- impress them with how sensitive you are with this unique gift designed for relaxation... a mini-retreat without leaving home.
Website Price Range: $22.99 Purchase: OnlineA fun idea for moms who spend their time watching their kids have all the fun. How relaxing to sit with your own grown-up coloring book and colored pencils and get lost in your own drawing.
32 fold-over cards with a tab closure; four each of eight designs with whimsical messages. These kid-sized valentines are reminiscent of the good ol' days and perfect for classroom valentine exchanges. The best part is that they are designed by children with cancer and all the proceeds from their sale return to fund patient programs at M. D. Anderson Cancer Center.
Website Price Range: $5 Purchase: OnlineWe loved these Valentine cards that actually help children. Rather than going with your typical store bought card, go online and order this set of 32 beatiful hand drawn cards.
Photographer Lauren Miller specializes in macro - or close up - shots and put together packets of 12 Valentine-themed cards. They are signed by the artist and each packet of 12 costs $24. What's the really sweet thing about this gift? Half of what Lauren makes on each pack of cards will be donated to the Dallas-Fort Worth (Texas) Pug Rescue - http://dfwpugs.com/ - the organization from which Lauren rescued her own pug, Mitzu.
Website Price Range: $24 Purchase: Online
Expressing your love has never been quite so sweet! This plush huggable monkey contains an aromatherapy, warm-up insert for stress relief and the warmth of a big hug. The slow-roasted cinnamon and dark chocolate dusted almonds come in a 3"x3"x3" designer box, delivering pure decadence, satisfying the sweetest sweet tooth. A wonderful way to express your feelings in a not-so-traditional way!
Website Price Range: $65.00 Purchase: OnlineA cuddly monkey that also works as a heating pad served with chocolate almonds... it does not get better than that!
Wishwrap.com is full of unique and special gift ideas and the packaging is beautiful. All you have to do when you are trying to find the perfect gift is click on their site to be inspired by the many items they offer and they will ship it. It is always a treat when someone else does all the work for you.
Their Gift-Giving Philosophy: Every gift is thoughtful. Every gift is luxurious. Every gift is personal.
A cuddly plush animal, a soft comfy pillow and a cozy warm blankey.
There are a variety of zoo and safari animals to choose from and each has it's own story.
The soft coral fleece blankets are 33"x55" and are stuffed inside the animal. (Blankets are machine washable and can zip off.)
They can be purchased online.
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This book is written from a dad's perspective from pregnancy through the transition to fatherhood.
Rookie Dad is the story of a young husband and father learning how to pay attention to his family’s changing size and shape. It’s a story filled with hard questions, with laughter and tears, and with the unexpected joy of first-time fatherhood.
WebsiteI appreciated the author's honesty and think this book would be helpful for any new father. I liked how it started with pregnancy and takes the reader through the transition period. I admired the author's compassion for all that his wife was going through. There are so many books out there for moms so it is neat to have a new option for dads.
Edgy and honest, this resource was written to amuse, enlighten, and help new and veteran parents find humor in one of life's wildest rides. Packed with insight, wit, and hard-won wisdom, it delivers the message every fledgling parent longs to hear: you are not alone. This mother of two shares her experiences from the moment of conception through pregnancy, labor, birth, and baby's first steps. From the ungodly hours of feeding and pleading with her baby to sleep through the night to hiring an extra hand and quelling overreactions, this guidebook is a hilarious journey through the first wide-eyed, miraculous months with a baby. Purchase: You can purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Games, Toys & Book Reviews - Fall 2008 Finally...A book that puts the humor into parenting! Moms of all ages will enjoy this trip back to the early years. Jenna has written a book that takes you back to the moment of trying to concieve through your first road trip with baby in tow. Dads will even enjoy the honest and fun approach.
By Amy Kovarick and Joelle Kristin Jay
I love this book since it is all about taking care of yourself and looking ahead to plan for your new role as a mother. It includes great tools for mapping out what you want for yourself and your family. Thought provoking and empowering since it gives you permission to take care of yourself.
T-shirt-like material that helps hold your belly before and after the baby, but looks like a layered shirt.
They really work! It's a lot better than a band that you have to hide. You can wear your pre-pregnancy pants unbuttoned, with this covering, or your too big pants to keep them from falling down.
If you want to see them yourself, Baby Bloomers is carrying them locally.
If you've got a busy house, you know that spills and messes happen all the time. Clorox Disinfecting Wipes are the quick and easy way to clean and disinfect anytime and anywhere. Pre-moistened with cleaners and disinfectants, these handy household wipes are ready to use. Just wipe and let sit for 30 seconds to sanitize or 4 minutes to disinfect. Then toss and you're done. (The fresh scent of Lavender is now available in a wipe.)
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 Clorox wipes are a staple for us with kids because there is always something that needs to be cleaned or wiped up. They are great for potty training for cleaning up when they don't make it to the bathroom. Our new favorite is their "To Go" wipes because it is an easy way to keep them in your car or in a dipaer bag... how often do you sit down in a restaurant to a dirty table and of course the worst is having to take kids into dirty bathrooms. Clorox wipes are just a simple and practical solution to messes.
I can't tell you how many uses this little canister will go through. Orignially I used them for the bathroom, especially around the toilet, I not have incoprorated it into regular cleaning, and it's so quick too. Toilets, counter tops, by the cats dish and the litter box (since she somtimes misses). The baby's high chair and walker, since everything goes into his mouth I can quickly wipe it up and it dires fast. Toss and go!!! [Sheral Rolfe, Lake Havasu City, AZ. 02/10/09 Parent]
For use in parking lots, the Parking Pal magnetic hand is designed to help busy parents keep their child out of harm's way while tending to other tasks. Parking Pal magnets come in several kid-pleasing styles! Place the Parking Pal on the side of your vehicle, where it will remain safely attached at all times. It was specifically designed with bright colors, playful illustrations, and a small palm children love to place their hands on. After a couple learning sessions, your child will discover that the Parking Pal is their safe spot, and they will know where to go the second they are outside the car. Price: $10 Purchase: You can purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 Another great invention by a mom! I could not wait to check this out. Having had twins, this would have been a lifesaver when they were younger. There are fun design choices. Make your kids part of the process if you decide to order so they can pick their favorite. (This would also be a fun stocking stuffer.)
Child Safety ID Inside Bracelet: This child identification bracelet is the easiest way to feel more secure when your child is in a crowded place. The hidden pocket and water proof ID cards assure that your child's identification and medical information are always up to date. (The personal info is inside the ID and not visible.) Fits children 20 - 95 pounds. (There is also a disposable option available - $8/10 bracelets) Price: $8
Identification Cards are essential for everyone in your family. Each card holds child's photo, thumbprint, name, address, weight, height, birth date, emergency contact numbers, doctor's name & number, dentist's name & number, insurance info, plus a medical release signature allowing immediate medical treatment when a parent is not availabe or can not speak for the child. This kit provides enough cards for multilple children and or for yearly updates. Price:
Child Safety Shoe Stickers ID: Fill out the sticker. Stick it inside the shoe. Teach your child to use the labels if they are lost by removing one shoe and giving it to a trusted adult to get help. Each label has space for 5 phone numbers and 3 names of people your child may call if they need help for any reason. Fill out contact information with a pen, seal laminate over label to make it tamper and waterproof, peel backing off label and adhere inside child's shoe or inside safety helmet.
Child Dog Tag: The personalized dog tag has a fun laser engraved graphic on the front that kids will love to wear and 8 lines of information on the back. The personalized dog tags are great for kids to wear on a belt loop, on shoe strings, coat zipper, attach to book bags, sports bags, lunch boxes, and much more. Price: $10 Purchase: You can purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 There are some great safety products on this site, chicksandcubs.com. What we loved the most was the fact that your child's personal information is hidden with each of these options. We are told over and over again to make sure not to flash our children's names since it gives a potential stranger an opportunity to connect with your child more personally. With these options, their information is available if they need to ask someone for help. The disposable bracelets seem like a great option for field trips and camp groups. The shoe sticker is a fantastic idea but seems like it would be most effective with younger kids who may not have a variety of shoes or boys that tend to stick to 2 pairs.
SafetyMate is a hand-held talking first aid device with information for over 30 first aid issues. It provides interactive information for all ages - infant, child and adult emergencies including allergic reactions, bone injuries, seizures, CPR and more. Audible instructions are bilingual, in English and Spanish. Carried exclusively at Right Start stores.
WebsiteThis is a perfect alternative to conventional baby shower gifts. An absolute must for new and seasoned parents! Directions are very clear, easy to understand and so helpful in an emergency situation. Small enough to carry in a car or diaper bag. Really gives me the peace of mind that I could give my child what they need in that type of situation.
Cleatskins, which made their debut in July '08, are an innovative and stylish footware accessory designed to fit over cleated shoes and quickly and conveniently take young athletes from the field to the street. Designed to fit over virtually all cleated shoes, including baseball, soccer, football and more, Cleatskins make it easier than ever before for kids of all ages to move on and off the playing field and into the next activity. Constructed of SKINTEK rubber, a revolutionary formulation of compression molded rubber, Cleatskins feature a flexible shell that fits over plastic and rubber cleated footwear, snugly cupping the shoe from the bottom. Cleatskins significantly extend the life of cleats by protecting studs from wear and tear, and the unique SKINTEK material is machine washable, making them easy-to-care for and looking like new. In addition, the unique rubber shell enhances the street-sensibility of studded athletic shoes by improving mobility and safety on asphalt and concrete surfaces, while creating a sealed barrier to keep dirt and grass out of home and car. Cleatskins are available in a variety of colors versatile enough to complement any shoe, outfit or team uniform. Price: $17.95 Purchase: You can purchase in retail stores.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 This is a very cool idea because it makes it easy for kids to go out to eat after a game withour slipping in their cleats. It also keeps the cleats from wearing down. We loved the great selection of colors and the fact that it protects your floors when kids are inside the house. They have both youth and adult sizes. We had a little trouble figuring out the sizing.
Awesome was the response our daughter gave us when she opened her pink cleatskins. [Jess, Santa Barbara, CA. 11/13/08 Parent]
An ideal product for keeping your electronics free of dust, fingerprints and dirt. E-tronic wipes repel dust and are easy to use. Eliminate static from your electronic equipment with this streak-free, lint-free, ammonia-free formula.
E-tronic wipes can be used on plasma TVs, LCD TVs, TV's, computer screens, monitors, laptop screens, computers, cell phones, telephones and DVD/CD players. Purchase at Kmart, Target, Home Depot, etc. Price: $5.49 Purchase: You can purchase online or click here for retail locations.
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ParentClick Tech & Gadget Reviews - Fall 2008 It used to be that we just needed cleaning products under our kitchen sink... now with computers and flat screen TV's, we need special wipes as well so we do not ruin the screens. My PDA phone screen is always smudged so I have to say this is a great way to keep it clean. I just keep our wipes next to our charging station where all of our screens tend to be centralized in our home office.
I love having these around. It is so nice to have clean computer monitors, without finger smears - especially with all the ash from fires in our area. I keep a tub at my home computer station and at my work. [Andrea, Santa Barbara, CA. 11/16/08 Parent]
Dymo Personal Label Maker - LT-100H: Small, sleek and super portable, the hand-held DYMO LetraTag Plus LT-100H is the ideal label maker for the home or small office. It prints on a variety of colored labels, plus adds popular text features like multiple font styles, underlining, bolding, text sizing and more. Prints in 3 languages. Price: $29.99 (Tape cartridges are approx. $7.99) Purchase: You can purchase online or click here for retail locations.
WebsiteParentClick Tech & Gadget Reviews - Fall 2008 I am obsessed with being organized so maybe I am not objective but I think this is the coolest tool for moms. It is useful and fun. I have labeled our pantry so that the kids know where to put the cereal, crackers, etc. I have labeled their dresser drawers so there is no longer confusion on where anything goes. The kids had me make them labels for the dividers in their binders. We have become label-happy! My only frustration is when you do text on 2 lines, the letters shrink down significantly. We did not try it but found that they even offer an iron-on tape so you can mark your kids clothes for camp and school. There is also a magnetic tape.
Although we though this little machine was great, we did a little research and read a few negative comments that you might want to review before you purchase to make sure that this is the right one for you.
The Lightning Strike Personal Protection System offers protection that you can count on in a potential assault or attack situation. Perfect as a unique corporate gift, for the traveling business woman, a college student living on campus, as well as joggers and senior citizens.
The Lightning Strike Personal Protection System was developed by police as a safe, simple, and easy to use, economical personal safety and protection system. The personal protection system includes two self defense products - a tactical flashlight and a personal safety alarm. Utilizes 65 lumens of brilliant, flawless white light to momentarily blind and disorient an attacker. Small enough to hold comfortably in one hand for use as a defensive weapon in case of attack. Unique "Tactical Touch" end cap switch allows the user to switch from high to low to blinding strobe settings, all with a light touch of your finger. The flashlight comes with a leather quick deployment fashion holster with a "writsty" so the light can be carried on your wrist, or be clipped on the outside of a purse, briefcase or clothing. The personal safety alarm is small and rugged, yet loud enough to scare off an attacker and alert others. Price: $79.99 Purchase: You can purchase online.
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ParentClick Tech & Gadget Reviews - Fall 2008 We all worry about our kids being safe whether they are 5 years old or twenty. This is a great item to send off with your kids to college or even for high school students. It is also ideal for bikers and runners who may be out alone. It is small and so easy to attach to your purse or clothes. Eighty dollars is reasonable price to pay to give parents peace of mind. This is a great gift for all the women in your life. There are 2 items that come in the case: a personal alarm and Illumination light. You can carry both or just one of them. Click on their site for demos on how to use it.
Slim as a bookmark, the PageMark allows users to look up definitions for words as they're reading. This product also gives users daily "Highlight from History" facts, as well as historical birthdays for that date, taken straight from the Times' archives. Additional features include nine interactive word games and phonetic spell correction.
Website Price Range: $50-$60 Purchase: http://www.franklin.comNow this is a gift teens, parents, and grandparents would enjoy. Use it as a resource while you read with the built-in dictionary or just have fun with the daily history tid-bits. We love the idea of giving a gift that would also be useful... no more running to get the dictionary or pretending you understand the word. All you have to do is type in the workd and voila, you have a definition!
The Targus Travel Power Outlet with surge protection - Compatibility - 4 grounded 3-prong type power plug with surge protection and an 8" power cable. Surge Protection - Protects electrical devices from harmful power surges and spikes. Travel Easy - Small form factor. Easily stores in small laptop cases or luggage. Smart design - Outlets available to accommodate larger sized power adapters. Price: $19.99 Purchase: You can purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Tech & Gadget Reviews - Fall 2008 What a great product when you travel for business or pleasure since these days everyone seems to take their laptops. I was not even aware that we had options like these. It is great that it gives you 4 outlets in 1 space so that when you are in a hotel room and limited on outlets. Check their site for other great travel products.
A sensible solution to a common problem. WarmMe? WARM MOUSE is ergonomically designed to fit in your hand comfortably, minimizing unnecessary pressure on the wrist and forearm muscles. This insures that your wrist is in a neutral position during use. You can move freely while delivering therapeutic heat to relax tight hand and wrist muscles.
WarmMe? WARM MOUSE improves circulation in your hand, fingers, thumb and fingertips. As natural infrared rays are gently emitted, reflected and refracted in the soft tissues of your fingers and hands, cellular functioning is enhanced. This amazing process can help to reverse damage done from overworked joints. Infrared rays can actually help to produce better enzymes within the cells of the muscle.
The perfect gift for your over-worked loved one.
Chipper helps kids earn their wings before they even fly. Soar to new heights with Chipper as he takes his first flight. From what to pack, to check-in, security, boarding, flying and arriving, Chipper playfully teaches kids about flying on an airplane, and how to be courteous travelers. Kids are ready to go before you even pack a bag. Includes: Get Ready to Fly Story and Activity Book, 8-Pack crayons, Plush Pillow "back" Pack, & Tote Bag. Price: $29.95 Purchase: You can purchase online.
WebsiteParentClick Back to School Product Reviews - Fall 2008 Perfect gift for a young child. The pillow-backpack is light and the front pocket for the supplies makes it easy for your child to take charge of their supplies.
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