Preparing food often seems like a chore to adults, but it is fascinating and exciting to children. When I was little, I adored my Snoopy Snow Cone Machine and Easy-Bake Oven. When I look at these products from an adult-perspective, they seem so flawed. I remember how hard it was to crank the handle on the snow cone machine. And […]
Clip-On Fun
Toddlers have remarkable imaginations. Mine will stick two blocks together and proudly proclaim it a “kitty cat…with shoes!” So, we favor open-ended toys that allow her to explore her own creativity. If you are looking for something a cleaner and less pointy than two sticks and some rocks, then building blocks are a classic for […]
Cabbage Patch Kid Memories
For Christmas 1983, the only thing I wanted from “Santa” was a Cabbage Patch Kid. Just about every kid in America wanted one too, so they were nearly impossible to find in that pre-eBay era. I remember watching the mob scenes on TV: hordes of parents rushing toy stores, Cabbage Patch Kids being transported in armored cars, a mailman […]
Potty Like a Rockstar With Corolle Dolls
Kids love to role play and realistic looking dolls can help them tackle each new childhood challenge. Corolle Dolls provide a high-quality, child-safe, washable, lovable baby doll option for kids of all ages. June is National Potty Training Awareness Month (No, Seriously), so we’re excited to share Paul and Emma with you. This adorable duo […]
Alleviating Doctor Appointment Fears
Even toddlers who only have to go to regular well-baby appointments may suddenly develop an intense fear of the pediatrician. And this fear can present an even greater problem if your child needs more regular visits to a doctor’s office or hospital. Here are a few products I’ve been using to alleviate doctor-phobia. Medical Set: […]
Grow Organically With Natural Pod
Natural Pod has one of the most unique selections of heirloom-quality, natural and organic toys, clothing, and gifts. This Canadian-based store only stocks eco-friendly and child-safe wooden and cloth toys, organic clothing, and sustainable items, most of which are made in Canada, the USA, or Europe. My tot checked out a few of Natural Pod’s […]
MonkeyBean Toys Coupon Code (Deal of the Day)
Monkey Bean Toys is one of our Retailers of Toys to Trust. Their selection includes lots of beautiful wooden and plush items, most of which are manufactured in North America or Europe. Just to make sure their toys are safe, Monkey Bean uses a hand-held X-Ray Fluorescence Metal Analyzer (the same model used by the […]
Recycled Plastic is Endless Fun with Green Toys (enter to win!)
We are very excited about Green Toys, a new line of recycled plastic toys that actually meets every item on our check list: good for the environment, safe for children, not manufactured in sweatshops, and really, really cool. These sturdy toys will withstand whatever your little whirling dervish can dish out. I was really impressed […]
Is my (Doll)House Safe?
A reader e-mailed us because she had concerns about the Melissa & Doug Victorian Dollhouse ($150, unfurnished) she had purchased for her daughter. After checking out the research we e-mailed her, she felt comfortable keeping this child-safe dollhouse. Melissa & Doug manufactures in China and many parents are understandably concerned about the lead paint recalls. […]
Language Littles Dolls Help Kids Learn Another Language
I want my daughter to enjoy the benefits of learning a foreign language. After reading The Bilingual Edge, I decided to introduce Spanish, since I’m proficient, and Russian, since I know a little and it is a heritage language for us. We read books in these languages, listen to Baby’s First Steps in Spanish, and […]
