Educational Toy Guide 2014

One of my absolute favorite trends this holiday season is a real push for toys that really allow children to be creative & scientific. It could be building a robot or making candy, anytime we pull our kids away from the tv & they use their hands to create is a huge win in my book. Learning while they play is a big bonus too!

1. The Kindle Fire less expensive than Ipad, but still fun, be sure to add Kindle Freetime to the device to control how much time is spent playing games & watching movies...then you're not the bad guy!  For the younger crowd, you might want to look into the Leappad Ultra which is made for the younger crowd.  Little Scholar Educational Kids Tablet is another great option & comes loaded with apps, videos, books, games & songs plus has a rubber case included in the purchase!
2. Sport Stacking with Speed Stacks Cups no batteries, no computer, just you against the clock & it's tons of fun! 
3. Thames & Kosmos Crystal Growing but if crystals aren't your kids speed, they have a variety  of other educational but very cool, learning toys & games. 
4. HEXBUG VEX Robotics Ant build your own Hexbug robotic ant that you use a remote control to maneuver.  There are multiple sets in this line & they can be mixed & matched to create you own bug!  I also like Laser Pegs they can be matched up with Legos but these blocks make your buildings & cars glow!
5. Experience Gifts: So not exactly a toy, but still a great option!  Children will stop playing with toys, but the memories of going to a special place with a friend or family member, can last a lifetime.  My childrens' list don't include many toys this year but a few places they'd like to go instead.  I love these kinds of gifts because my kids get to spend time with someone they love AND they don't need another toy! 

Coming Soon: Holiday Gift Guide 2014

I went to New York City for the day yesterday, to see some of the best toys & products that are being offered for the 2014 holiday season. The good news is....there are sooo many great products for kids in every age group & many of them are even educational PLUS so fun!  

I have a few items that I particularly loved because they incorporate STEM ideas into play or take my kids virtual worlds & make them "real life". I can't wait to share my favorites....as soon as I recover from the crazy trip!   

Jess

Makin’ Music for Families-Discount Code!

I had an opportunity to view the new Makin' Music for Families DVD at the Makin' Music Rockin' Rythems campus a few weeks ago.  My first thought, "I wish this had been around when my kids were younger!"

The DVD is basically, a Makin' Music class that can be done at home. The video shows actual parents & kids taking part in a class, with instructions from the teachers & information for parents (grandparents, caregivers, etc) so you can really help your child enjoy the musical experience!

There are lesson plans, craft instructions so you can make your own musical instruments & so much more. This is such a great gift to give a child who doesn't need another toy! (At home day cares, working parents, grandparents, etc can also benefit from the program being done at your convenience.)  The price of the DVD is $14.99 and Makin' Music is hoping to start a monthly subscription program sooner than later.

You can order the video by clicking HERE  and use the code momblog to save $2 when you check out!  If you have any questions let me know & I'll do my best to get the answers! 
  
You can check out a portion of the video below.

Holiday Toy list for 2013

Holiday lists are so hard and this year I've been to 3 different events showcasing the holidays hottest items...the bottom line, there are a ton of great toys this year!  One toy executive though, had great advice....she said to follow your child's passion & it will lead you to the perfect present.  For example, my kids love karate & so we're looking at getting them a Wavemaster aka a kickboxing bag to share this Christmas.  The Wavemaster will likely only make an appearance on my list but it's perfect for my kids!  So without further ado---my 2013 toy list!

1. Doc McStuffinsthis girl is hot & the 3-6 year old set love everything about her!
2. The Kindle Fire less expensive than Ipad, but still fun, be sure to add Kindle Freetime to the device to control how much time is spent playing games & watching movies...then you're not the bad guy!  For the younger crowd, you might want to look into the Leappad Ultra which is made for the younger crowd.
3. Sport Stacking with Speed Stacks Cups no batteries, no computer, just you against the clock & it's tons of fun! 
4. Thames & Kosmos Crystal Growing but if crystals aren't your kids speed, they have a variety  of other educational but very cool, learning toys & games. 
5. Furby Boom & this one is hot, so if you want it for the holidays, you should get one now.  This toy can interact with other Furbies and connects to your Ipad so you can feed, bath, etc your new pet!
6. Playskool Sesame Street Big Hugs Elmo, he is fuzzy & cute, just like you'd expect from Elmo!
7. FurReal Friends Pets this toy is expensive but super cute, snuggley & interactive
8. Rainbow Loom-I think (the official Rainbow Loom) only sold at Hallmark stores...seriously, kids 6+ love it and again, no batteries necessary, though mine do like to watch the videos to make more difficult bracelets. 
9. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles all of them & everything.  
10. Laser Pegs they can be matched up with Legos but these blocks make your buildings & cars glow!

Honorable Mention goes to: 

• Zing Air Z-Curve Bow  with multiple colors, these cool bow & arrows are great for both the boys & girls in your life!  
• Style Me Up a great "Do-it-Yourself" brand for budding fashionistas.  There are kits to make scarves, bracelets, design your nails, etc.  
• Experience Gifts: So not exactly a toy, but still a great option!  Children will stop playing with toys, but the memories of going to a special place with a friend or family member, can last a lifetime.  My childrens' list don't include many toys this year but a few places they'd like to go instead.  I love these kinds of gifts because my kids get to spend time with someone they love AND they don't need another toy!  

What do you think...am I missing anything?  What are the hot items on your list this year?

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