Shopping for Toddlers

How To Select The Right Shoes For Your Children

noreply@blogger.com (Kara) — Wed, 22 Feb 2006 16:14:00 +0000

How To Select The Right Shoes For Your Children by Sintilia Miecevole

It is pretty usual for children to go around in footies or in socks during their first months. At that age, shoes are merely a 'decoration' item because newborns or young babies never walk so they don't need any kind of support for their body and feet. Nevertheless, the minute kids begin to walk, generally quite a few months before or after they turn one, you must know what types of shoes your kid is going to wear. You may need to buy several pairs of new shoes for toddlers and preschoolers quite regularly, so you will probably begin to ask yourself lots of questions regarding your child's shoes.

Picking the right shoes for your kid is not easy. If you are about to buy shoes, you must ask 3 particular questions before buying. They are the following:

1. How does it fit? 2. How is it made? 3. Is the shoe appropriate for your kid's age?

Let's analyze every single question a bit more thoroughly.

1. How does it fit? - When you ask this, you must take into account the length, width and depth of the shoe and check this carefully once the shoe is fitting your child's foot. If you pick a shoe that is ill fitting, you may harm your child's feet. Your kid can have ingrown toenails, calluses and bunions. Also, try checking your child's 'growth spurts' because when kids grow, their feet grow too. It is advisable to buy new shoes for your child every 3 to 4 months, because it will keep the fit suitable for their feet. Bear in mind that shoes really needn't to be "broken in". When a shoe is not comfortable from the start, it means that is definitely not the right shoe for your kid.

2. How is it made? - Four distinctive parts form every shoe: upper part, insole, outer sole and heel. Children are usually quite active, so it is advisable that the upper part of the shoe is made of a strong but breathable material such as canvas or leather. (Try avoiding shoes that are made of plastic, especially at young ages!). Try picking a shoe which insole is made from an absorbent material. It is not actually necessary to have padded insoles or special arch support insoles at this age. The outer sole has to give flexibility, traction and cushioning to the shoe, but it shouldn't be bulky or sticky when your kid walks. Bulky, sticky outer soles can lead to unnecessary injury by making your child clumsy. Also, heels aren't really necessary at this age at all! Try picking shoes with flat soles; it will make it much easier for your kid to walk.

3. Is the shoe appropriate for your kid's age? - A pre-walking kid doesn't actually need shoes. Their feet just need footies and warm socks; they can even walk barefoot indoors. If you have a toddler and he is just learning to walk, he should wear shoes that have a smooth sole and a high top. Also, it must be made from materials that are light and breathable. These kinds of shoes stay on better and help avoiding falls. If you have a school-age kid, there is a great assortment of suitable shoes, such as tennis shoes, sandals and even hiking boots. If you have an older child, you just have to follow the first two questions and pick the best shoes for your kid.

About the Author
With many years in the footwear industry, Sintilia Miecevole learned just how much people love shoes! A vast source of information is now available on her new site http://www.rexshoes.com complete with everything from shoes, runners, boots and sandals to shoe stores. Be sure to visit http://www.rexshoes.com to find your footwear.

Musical Hands Mat

noreply@blogger.com (Kara) — Tue, 24 Jan 2006 01:01:00 +0000

Musical Hands Mat

Very cute idea, and something that won't be easily be grown out of. Features eight brightly colored, tactile stimulating handprints that act as piano keys as well as flashing lights and other sounds.

This portable mat is also a piano! This mat features eight brightly-colored, tactile stimulating handprints that act as piano keys. Press each handprint and a different note is sounded either in piano, bell, dog, chick, or cat sounds. Press the demo button to hear a complete tune or the light button to play songs by following the flashing lights above the keys. Little ones are sure to have fun while they refine their musical ear and motor skills. The Musical Hands Mat helps develop coordination and teaches cause-effect principles. The mat is 45" long and 11 3/4" wide and does not include the required two AA batteries. The mat should be spot cleaned.

Click Here for Details

Helping Children Learn About Thankfulness and Sharing at Holiday Time

noreply@blogger.com (Kara) — Mon, 16 Jan 2006 20:38:00 +0000

Helping Children Learn About Thankfulness and Sharing at Holiday Time by Sherry Frewerd

With the recent natural disasters that have struck our country and the world, now, more than ever, we as parents need to make teaching our children to be grateful, sharing people a priority. How do we help our young children learn about thankfulness and the importance of sharing with others? Naturally, the holiday season sets the perfect stage for such important life lessons.

To a toddler or preschool age child, the concept of thankfulness is extremely abstract. That does not mean that we cannot establish traditions and build healthy sharing habits within our families, starting with our little kids.

Daily, children are bombarded with media and advertisements for more and more 'stuff.' My young son is now on a forced sabbatical from Wal-Mart due to over exposure to 'Tigger'. We can't even enter the parking lot with him in the car without the chorus of 'I want a new Tigger...' to start full force. For his own good, and for the sake of my sanity, he's staying home with Daddy until after the holidays. Hopefully his condition will improve by then.

My son's issue comes from being two years old, that will change with age. But, if left untreated, and if I fail to take advantage of every 'teachable moment', he very well may grow up to be an ungrateful brat. Sounds harsh, but the kids from 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' aren't all that far from reality.

So, how do we create more 'Charlies' and fewer 'Violets'? Here are some simple yet fun and inexpensive activities that toddlers and preschoolers love. Their pride in accomplishment will show on their faces.

Holiday Sharing Activities for Little Kids:

1. Make thank you cards for the 'heroes' in your community. Firefighters, mail carriers, police officers etc. Let the kids hand deliver if possible.

2. Make homemade bird feeders or sprinkle birdseed outside weekly for the birds.

3. Offer to help gather fallen leaves from the lawn of senior citizen neighbors. Make a fun time of it. Little kids love to jump in the leaves and you can teach them about autumn too!

4. Create cards and art projects to take to a local nursing home. My son and I visit often, and he loves to sit on the couch with a special friend named 'Darlene.' They enjoy each other's company, and he is learning patience and gets to practice 'inside voice.'

5. Work with your kids on making a 'Helping Coupon Book' or a simple picture book with different things that they can do to help around the house. Each page can be a 'coupon' for a little job like putting toys away, helping put clothes in or take out of the dryer, etc.

These small suggestions are merely a starting point for activities and special times that we can do with our children now, while they're young, to instill qualities of community and helpfulness. The burden is on today's parents to set the example. Let's create a world of thoughtful, thankful adults.

About the Author
About the author: Sherry Frewerd publishes 'Family Play and Learn' a website devoted to toddlers and preschool age children. You'll find fun and learning activities, along with, articles for parents on various early childhood issues. Family Play and Learn - http://familyplayandlearn.com

Fire Station Ride On

noreply@blogger.com (Kara) — Wed, 11 Jan 2006 03:05:00 +0000

Fire Station Ride On

Fire Station Ride On

I love these toys, they are so much fun for little ones not quite big enough for even a small bike. My daughter had one similar to this, except in a different style. It held up good enough for as much as it was used.

From the Manufacturer
This colorful activity center on wheels has over 10 play features. The light up characters buttons on the steering wheel play fun sound effects and have talking phrases. The Dash and front area of the vehicle feature such activities as button-activated pop ups, sound effects, songs and characters that play talking phrases or sound effects. Children can also us as a walker to help improve body coordination. 3 styles available - Fireman, Alphabet fun and Fairy tale land. Multi-functional ride-on features foot-to-floor and walker functions with electronic talking panel. Electronic talking panel teaches children to identify objects and people. Recomended for ages 1 1/2 - 3 years of age.

Click Here for Ordering Information

How to Potty Train Your Child

noreply@blogger.com (Kara) — Fri, 06 Jan 2006 20:29:00 +0000

How to Potty Train Your Child by Grant Carroll

It's a milestone in your child's life...learning how to use the potty. Many parents find both a joy and sorrow in this stage that is a rite of passage for their child from being a baby to being a big boy or girl. For parents trying to toilet train, it can test your patience. However, using the potty is complex for small children, so mom and dad shouldn't panic if baby doesn't potty train right away. The best way to approach potty training is to take it one step at a time and to be patient.

The first step is to get both you and your toddler ready. Observe little one for the "about to go" signals such as squatting, retreating to a quiet area or verbalization. Other signals that show a parent a toddler is ready are: verbal communication of things like hunger, child understands simple sentences, doesn't like being soiled, stays dry longer. One way you can help your baby from birth for this time is to change all dirty diapers quickly. This way, they never have a chance to be used to the soiled feeling. Once your sure your toddler is ready, prepare yourself by getting the proper equipment. This includes but is not limited to: potty training chair, training pants, training diapers, other potty training aids. You must also prepare to be patient...don't expect miracles overnight.

Once you're both ready, start by teaching the essentials. First, teach them where to go. A good way to get your toddler involved is to let him or her pick their own potty chair. This ensures that they will be comfortable with potty training on the chair. Next, you want to make sure you're teaching the correct vocabulary. It's best to use words like "penis" and "vagina" to prevent confusion in later life. However, it's okay to use words like "pee-pee" and "poo-poo" rather than "urination" and "defecation". The main challenge consists of teaching them the connection between feeling the urge and going and after going, telling mommy or daddy. You could do this by waiting for them to show the telltale signs of eliminating and taking them straight to the potty training chair. TV's "Dr. Phil" suggests illustrating with a doll that uses the bathroom. Having this visual aid can help a great deal. Once they begin to make progress, move them from diapers to training pants. Above all, be patient and relax. Some day you'll look back on this time and miss it.

About the Author
Grant Carroll proud father and co-owner of http://www.littlepamperedbabies.com with Baby Clothes and Toddler Clothing.Also visit Little Pampered Pets where you can find Dog Clothes and Small Dog Sweaters

Sharing Books With Children

noreply@blogger.com (Kara) — Wed, 04 Jan 2006 14:00:00 +0000

Sharing Books With Children by Sherry Frewerd

One of my first memories of childhood is that of my mother reading Dr. Seuss books to me in a big brown recliner in our living room. That memory brings with it sounds and smells and a general feeling of safety and comfort that never fades, even after all these years. Naturally, one of the first memories I have of my own first born child is sitting in a big chair and reading Little Golden Books to him.

Sharing books and reading with my children is as natural as giving them baths and making their breakfast. It's just something I do everyday, and it's one of the most pleasurable moments of my day. I love to hold my two year old in my lap while we snuggle up and look through his ever growing library of books. His favorite books change weekly as his interests broaden. Books open up the world to him and his imagination is bubbling over with new ideas every day.

More than just telling a story, books help children better understand their own ideas and feelings and often calm an upset toddler when nothing else will work. They see and hear about other kids like them and others from around the world who are different. We've all seen little kids acting out the stories they hear. As a child I spent many afternoons pretending to be the characters from my favorite books. Just recently my son was playing 'Dr.Dan. The Bandage Man', a current favorite Little Golden Book.

Although reading with children is so very rewarding for both adult and child, little kids need time to look at books alone. This allows them the opportunity to look at the pictures and develop the habit of 'reading' even though they can't yet read. In my Family Child Care, I have different 'libraries' available in different rooms in my home. The kids have labeled these areas 'libraries' themselves, and will often rotate the books from room to room and act out 'going to the library' daily. Imagine my surprise when I first witnessed a three year old taking the younger kids 'to the library.'

Because books are a very user-friendly activity and require no prep or cleanup other than returning them to the 'library', parents can and should use any opportunity to share books with their young children. Long car or plane trips, waiting rooms, in shopping carts, you name it, you can hand a child a book and make just about any transition or otherwise boring activity exciting. Books and reading can be both a group or individual activity, and many children who are normally shy in a group setting will sit in the reading circle and share story-time while making new friends.

By sharing books with your young child, you are planting a precious memory that will last a lifetime for both parent and child. They in turn will continue the tradition with their own children and remember those special times. A world of experiences and ideas are waiting for you to introduce to them.

About the Author
About the Author: Sherry Frewerd is a Proud Work At Home Mother of 3 musical children. A Family Child Care Provider for 10 years, she also publishes several websites, specifically Family Play and Learn: Play and Learning Resources for Parents and Family Child Care Providers.

Little Mommy Baby Gift Set

noreply@blogger.com (Kara) — Mon, 02 Jan 2006 14:02:00 +0000

Little Mommy Baby Gift Set

Little Mommy: Deluxe Gift Set with Baby Doll, Tricycle, Carrier, and Bouncer Seat

WOW! If you are looking for a great set to get a little girl in need of a new doll, this set is worth looking twice at. I was first amazed by the price of all the items that came with it, and really had to think if I wanted to get this for my daughter for Christmas. The only problem we have - my daughter has too many babies. One more wouldn't be that good of an idea. Although if she didn't already have so many dolls, this is definately something I'd be putting on the wish list!

From the Manufacture:
Girls will love playing mommy with this sweet baby doll and accessories! Girls can take their Little Mommy doll on her first bike ride with this tricycle inspired by a real Fisher-Price tricycle. The doll's hands fit in the molded handlebars and her feet rest near the front wheels while her 'mommy' pushes her along with the push handle. Girls can also entertain their Little Mommy doll by bouncing her in the bouncy seat and playing with the toy bar with plastic hook-on animals! Then she can rock baby to sleep in the carrier that's 2-in-1 fun. The Little Mommy Baby's Deluxe Dream Giftset provides hours of endless nurturing play!

Highly Recomended!

Click Here for Ordering Information

Toddler Bedding Sets

noreply@blogger.com (Kara) — Fri, 30 Dec 2005 17:30:00 +0000

Toddler Bedding Sets

Sesame Street - 4 Piece Toddler Set

Classic characters never go out of style, and Seasame Street is no exception. This bedding set if 4 pieces, and fits standard toddler bed and crib mattress.

Click Here for Ordering Information

Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs

noreply@blogger.com (Kara) — Wed, 28 Dec 2005 16:17:00 +0000

Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (Disney Platinum Edition)

A definate classic movie, this version is the Disney Platinum Edition. The most revered of all Disney films, SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS is alive with fairy tale magic, heart-pounding suspense, and rousing adventure. Once Snow White's vain stepmother, the wicked Queen, consults her Magic Mirror to learn that her stepdaughter's beauty surpasses her own, the lovely young girl must flee into the forest. There, she meets seven lovable dwarfs: Dopey, Sleepy, Sneezy, Bashful, Happy, Doc, and the rough-edged Grumpy. But even their devotion cannot save her form the Queen's spell ... the spell that can only be battled by a prince! Now, through high-definition direct-to-digital technology, you can own "The One That Started It All" -- the first full-length animated feature ever created, lovingly restored for a memorable entertainment experience for all ages!

LOTS of extras and special features on the DVD version. DVD Features:

Disc One:
- Magic Mirror on the Wall: To guide the viewer through all the features, the Magic Mirror is summoned as the host, through all-new animation created especially for this release
- Guided Tour: Tour Guide Angela Lansbury takes you on a VIP tour sampling bonus features
- Some Day My Prince Will Come: Barbra Streisand performs a newly recorded rendition of the song presented over an animated montage of highlights from the film
- "Still The Fairest of Them All: The Making Of Snow White:" - A 40-minute documentary providing fascinating insight into the events leading up to the development of the film
- "Heigh-Ho" Sing-Along: With an option to hear the vocals from the film or perform your own, karaoke style
- "Dopey's Wild Mine Ride" Game
- "The Goddess of Spring:" Silly Symphony animated short, which served as a test for the character Snow White
- Audio commentary is gathered from dozens of hours of rare archival recordings of Walt Disney himself, hosted by film historian John Canemaker

Disc Two:
- The Lands of Snow White
- Snow White's Wishing Well (History And Development)
- Walt Disney biographical timeline
- Highlights of Walt Disney's life and career
- Snow White production timeline
- The evolution of the production
- Brothers Grimm original version of "Snow White"
- Storyboard to film comparisons
- The Queen's Castle (Virtual Galleries & More)
- Visual Development Gallery including preliminary designs and deleted concepts, highlights the creation of the - European storybook world
- Layouts and Backgrounds Gallery including original designs and renderings
- Camera And Filter Tests including excerpts from Disney TV shows "The Story Of The Silly Symphony, " and "Tricks of - Our Trade" with Walt Disney focusing on the Multiplane - Camera
- Animation including a featurette on the original voices from the film
- Live-Action Footage including rare, live-action test footage featuring dancer Marge (Belcher) Champion and vaudevillian - Eddie Collins with Disney artists
- Character Design Galleries
- Still art galleries showcase the production designs
- The Queen's Dungeon (Abandoned Concepts)
- Snow White Meets The Prince storyboard reconstruction of an alternate scene
- Some Day My Prince Will Come (Fantasy Version) storyboard reconstruction
- The Prince Is Captured storyboard reconstruction
- A look at the restoration process for the DVD
- The Dwarfs' Mine (Rare Treasures)
- Four partially animated (and one fully-animated) scenes that did not make the final film version plus the original RKO - Opening and End Credits
- Disney Through The Decades: an new overview of the Walt - Disney Studios, looking at each decade from the 1930's to the present with Roy Disney, D.B. Sweeney, Angela - Lansbury, Fess Parker, Robby Benson, Dean Jones, Jodi Benson and Ming-Na
- The Dwarfs' Cottage (Wonder Of An Era Gone By)
- The Release: Rare newsreel footage of the Hollywood premiere at the Carthay Circle Theater, a large selection of still photographs of original merchandise, and trailers from the various theatrical re-releases
- Publicity: A retrospective of different theatrical poster designs used to promote "Snow White" over 65 years, press kits and the original 1937 Exhibitor's manual, stills from the premiere, the original press book, production photos, and posters
- Vintage Black & White Short Subjects including "A Trip Through the Walt Disney Studios," (RKO exhibitors short), "How Disney Cartoons Are Made" (revised version of "A Trip Through the Walt Disney Studios," shown publicly as the first trailer for "Snow White")
- Supplemental Audio including Cecil B. DeMille talks with Walt Disney about his production and premiere for the Lux Radio Theater, radio broadcast from the premiere, Disney radio program celebrating "Snow White Day" (January 9, 1938), radio commercials, voice recording sessions and a deleted song: "You're Never Too Old To Be Young" (sung by the Dwarfs)

Click here for DVD information

Click here for VHS information

Dinosaur Playsets

noreply@blogger.com (Kara) — Mon, 26 Dec 2005 17:08:00 +0000

Dinosaur Playsets

Imaginext: Thunder The Brontosaurus

Imagine...a primitive civilization of humans and dinosaurs, living in a lush, green land. One side-the predators-are using up its natural resources, wiping out everything and everyone that gets in their way. The other side-the ecovores-want to preserve their land. And they're willing to fight to make that happen. Thunder is the head of the ecovores. Kids press a button to make him stomp and roar. Very cute! Thunder comes with three smaller dinosaurs and a cave man.

Other playsets available for this line. Click on the links below for details on each of them.
Thunder The Brontosaurus
Imaginext Spike The Stegosaurus
Imaginext Slasher The Allosaurus
Imaginext: Razor The T-Rex

Magnetic Lunachics Playset

noreply@blogger.com (Kara) — Fri, 23 Dec 2005 14:57:00 +0000

Magnetic Lunachics Playset

Magnetic Lunachics Playset: Luna Paw Spa

Lunachics Luna Paw Spa, Lunachic boutique and Luna Sweets are fun playsets each with their own theme. Each set comes with a doll and magnetic clothing to mix & match, accessories and furniture to create different looks in each shop.

This toy is recomended for a little bit older children, ages 3 or 4 and up, since there are small parts to this set. Other sets available as well. Click on the links below for more details on each set.

Magnetic Lunachics Playset: Luna Paw Spa
Sweets Playset
Boutique Playset
Magnetic Lunachics: Seraphine's Room

Home Construction Playset

noreply@blogger.com (Kara) — Wed, 21 Dec 2005 14:31:00 +0000

Home Construction Playset

Home Depot Construction Set

Very cute construction set, exspecially for the boys who love to "build". Can make an excellent set for future gifts as well. (I love to find a specific type of toy that has multiple accessories and other kits to go along with it - easy to tell relatives to get them all of one type of set of toys.)

The Home Depot Construction Set includes Jack Hammer with real action and sounds, 3 interchangeable Jack hammer heads, Cement tray, Cement Trowel, Shovel with realistic shoveling sounds, goggles, safety helmet, construction sign and construction guide.

Some of the other sets include:
Home Depot Chainsaw with Sound
Home Depot Light & Sound Grinder with Accessories
Home Depot Jr. Electrician Tool Set

Letter Game from Imaginarium

noreply@blogger.com (Kara) — Mon, 19 Dec 2005 15:18:00 +0000

Letter Game from Imaginarium

The Letter Factory Game

Excellent educational toy!

Winner of the following awards:
- Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, Platinum Award, 2004
- 2004 Parents' Choice, Recommended Award Winner
- Parenting, Parenting Mom-Tested Toy of the Year Winner, 2004
- Great American Toy Test/KTVU, Top Educational Award, 2004

With two games in one, children play together and learn letter names and sounds with actions and music. Wacky Professor Quigley guides players every step of the way so no reading is required! Games automatically adjust to skill level, to keep children learning at just the right pace! 2 Games in 1: Counting Colors & Letters: Learn letter names and sounds by matching color cards to move around the board. Leaping Letters: Listen to the name or sound and then find the card that matches it! Includes: interactive card reader, game board, 26 letter cards and 4 playing pieces.

Highly recomended reviews on Amazon!

The Letter Factory Game

Imaginarium Tub Fun Letters/Numbers

noreply@blogger.com (Kara) — Fri, 16 Dec 2005 15:48:00 +0000

Imaginarium Tub Fun Letters/Numbers

A very cute idea from a learning company. Bath tub games may not be a completely new idea, nor is letters that stick. However, this toy is unique in the way it offers LOWER CASE letters instead of capitals! Some may disagree, thinking it's confusing, but I think it's an excellent idea. My oldest has had a hard time since starting school determing between upper case and lower case.

We all know most learning toys only focus on the upper case letters, so it's nice to have a change. Not to mention this makes bath time more of a learning time as well.

Click Here for Details

Little Doctor Kit

noreply@blogger.com (Kara) — Thu, 15 Dec 2005 15:25:00 +0000

Little Doctor Kit

Little Doctor Kit

This deluxe kit has everything a little doctor needs for those important house calls. Features an electronic stethoscope-press the button to hear coughing sounds or a steady heartbeat and a blood pressure gauge complete with arm cuff, pump and spinning dial. Doctor kit also includes: reflex hammer, thermometer with four different temperature readings, syringe that squeaks, auriscope to check ears, laryngoscope to view inside the mouth and reusable pretend bandage. These chunky accessories are perfect for little hands. A convenient doctor case with snap closure is also included for storing a transporting equipment from appointment to appointment. Batteries included (a relief for most parents!) High recomendation from Amazon.

Click here for Details

Need a little something extra to go along with this toy? Try the book Doctor Maisy!

Trax Working Town Railway System

noreply@blogger.com (Kara) — Wed, 14 Dec 2005 16:21:00 +0000

Geo Trax Working Town Railway System with exclusive bonus

Great for any toy train fans, this toy is also very durable. Perfect for boys that are hard on toys, and also a classic. VERY inexpensive as well. This set and other accessories all highly recomended on Amazon. A very top rated toy!

Other sets available to add to a collection of train sets like this one. Details on "Add-Ons" listed below. Click on links for more information on each item.

Geo Trax Working Town Railway System
Mile High Mountain
Coastal Winds Airport
Harbor Docks Lighthouse

Cranium Game for Smaller Children

noreply@blogger.com (Kara) — Tue, 13 Dec 2005 14:29:00 +0000

Cranium Game for Smaller Children

Cranium Hullabaloo Game

I've been seeing alot of Cranium games, and so far I've been impressed. Any type of game which promotes learning with playing, I'm a complete sucker for.

Because of the popularity of the Cranium games, I had to search for a game that gets down to the level of smaller kids, specifically the 2-4 age range. The Cranium Hullabaloo game is pretty close to that, being recommended for ages 4 and up. This game focuses on developing skills such as quick thinking, cooperation, and problem-solving. Areas parents often forget when teaching kids colors and alphabet (I'm guilty of this too!)

This particular brand is highly recomended, and the brand in general has excellent reviews on Amazon.

There are only a few Cranium games available for toddlers, which are listed below. Click on each link for details on each of them.

Cranium Hullabaloo Game
Cranium Cariboo

Some games for a little bit older children include:
Cranium Cadoo for Kids
Cranium Balloon Lagoon

Littlest Pet Shop

noreply@blogger.com (Kara) — Mon, 12 Dec 2005 14:56:00 +0000

Littlest Pet Shop - Little Lovin Pet Playhouse with Bonus Figures - Exclusively at Toys"R"Us!

Excellent reviews on Amazon, this Pet Shop comes with pets, beds, and other cute accessories. This special version comes with extra pets, so if this is a toy you have been eyeing for Christmas, definately purchase this through Amazon.

Other toys available from the Littlest Pet Shop line, see below for details on each.

Littlest Pet Shop Playhouse
Bathtime Playset - 4 Pets with Purse
Littlest Pet Shop Snowfall Fun

Special Edition Dollhouse

noreply@blogger.com (Kara) — Fri, 09 Dec 2005 18:12:00 +0000

Special Edition Dollhouse

Special Edition Townhouse

Anymore it's difficult to find good toys that actually do as promise, or are worth the money. Sometimes we just have to go back to classic toys, such as dollhouses.

This particular dollhouse (seen above), has excellent reviews on Amazon.

From the Manufacturer:
Beautiful Victorian style three story doll house with 6 large rooms inside and an outside deck. Features include realistic lighting in the kitchen, living room, parent's bedroom and front door light. There are 4 sound effects, 3 figures with soft good clothing and many furniture pieces.

Definately a recommended toy for Christmas, or any other special occation.

Click Here for Details

Disney Guess Who

noreply@blogger.com (Kara) — Thu, 08 Dec 2005 14:28:00 +0000

Disney Guess Who

Guess Who? Disney Edition

Just as fun as the original Guess Who, this Disney version features all your favorite Disney characters in the game. Personally I loved this game when I was a child, and loved to play it with my family. Having familiar characters makes it extra fun, and I'm sure all ages will love this now-classic game.

Recomended age is for 6 and up, although I'm sure children as young as 4 could learn how to play (my son was not quite 5 when we began playing Monopoly with him, and he understands the basics).

Available only at Toys R Us.

Click Here for Ordering Information

Magical Doodle Bear

noreply@blogger.com (Kara) — Wed, 07 Dec 2005 13:41:00 +0000

Magical Doodle Bear

After seeing many commercials of this product, I was informed by both my 3yr old and 5yr old they wanted one. The ability to actually draw on a teddy bear I think is a major facination to them, however I would keep a close eye on kids with this toy and explain carefully this is the only type of toy that should be colored on. We have a problem with coloring on walls in this house.

Aside from that, I see this as a fun, reuseable toy that would entertain them for quite awhile. The bears come in three different colors - Blue, Purple, and Pink. 2 pens come with each bear. I did find replaceable pens for this, so not to worry about the original pens being lost or wearing out. All around fun and creative toy!

Click Here for Details

Kids Christmas Movies

noreply@blogger.com (Kara) — Tue, 06 Dec 2005 15:07:00 +0000

Kids Christmas Movies

What Christmas would be complete without the series of classic movies that come around only once a year? With today's busy schedules, I know how hard it is to catch all the yearly specials. Luckily, we're able to now buy these movies on both VHS and DVD.

In no particular order, here are some of your favorite Christmas specials on VHS:

A Charlie Brown Christmas
Frosty the Snowman
Dr. Seuss - How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
A Garfield Christmas
Twas the Night Before Christmas
Mickey's Christmas Carol

This is just a very short list, but some of the most loved classics from the 70s and 80s. Many parents will love passing these movies down to their kids like I do. This list only includes VHS, but many are also available on DVD. To find some of these favorites on DVD, use the search function below:

Dora the Explorer Lamp

noreply@blogger.com (Kara) — Mon, 05 Dec 2005 14:29:00 +0000

Dora the Explorer EVA Lamp

Does your child love Dora the Explorer, but have too many toys? Get her something useful for Christmas - her very own Dora the Explorer lamp!

Sitting about 11 inches tall, this lamp goes great in any children's room. She'll love having Dora as a companion at night watching over!

Click Here for Details

Strawberry Shortcake Magical Carriage and Filly

noreply@blogger.com (Kara) — Fri, 02 Dec 2005 15:09:00 +0000

Strawberry Shortcake Magical Carriage and Filly

If your toddler is a fan of Strawberry Shortcake and My Little Ponies as well, then she's love this cute Strawberry Shortcake product. A "filly" pulls along a berry shapped carrage fit for Strawberry Shortcake herself (Strawberry Shortcake not included).

Click Here for Details

Cozy Coupe II Car - Magenta

noreply@blogger.com (Kara) — Thu, 01 Dec 2005 15:10:00 +0000

Cozy Coupe II Car - Magenta

Cozy Coupe II Car - Magenta

I must admit, this toy is on the list for one simple reason - it was something I always wanted a child and never got. Why I have no idea, but I still feel a bit of jealousy even today when I see this toy. My neighbor had one, and it was a blast.

Truely a classic, this car comes with a pretend dashboard, storage trunk, and beeping horn. The greatest childhood toys never go out of style! Plus feel good knowing there's no batteries to replace, and children can use their imagination without flashing lights and sounds. The price can't be beat either!

Hightly recomended!

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