Hello Paper Dolls

I have always been a fan of paper dolls.  One of my favorite toys from my own childhood involved a Victorian paper doll set.  hello hanna 'hello paper dolls' is a sweet, simple take on the paper doll sets I loved. There are four royal princesses to choose from -Violet, Buttercup, Rose and Daisy. Each doll comes with one large paper doll, a pet, outfits and sticker accessories.  A stencil is included to create one-of-a-kind designs too. 

Each sturdy hello paper doll ($12.95) is 6" and made from heavyweight paper.  Two sheets of punch-out clothing and 1 sheet of sticker accessories are in the kit as well.  I love that the stickers can be used multiple times.  Each set is made from FSC-certified uncoated recycled paper.  Always a plus in my book.  My girls loved the endless combinations they could create with their own hello paper dolls and spent hours making fashions and playing with their individual paper dolls sets.  I think they make great gifts for the holidays as well as any upcoming birthdays you might be attending soon. 

hello paper dolls are available on hellohanna.com and fine stationary stores everywhere. 


MPR Rating:  Four Stars.

Disclaimer:  MPR was not paid for this post. Products received are for review purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only. 

Barbie's Princess Charm School

Charm and etiquette are not one in the same. However, you can go to the same school for both. The new Barbie Princess Charm School DVD (available Sept. 15) is the story of Barbie (or Blair in the story) going to Princess Charm School. Together with Mrs. McVeigh (Mattel's appointed manners expert), Barbie is setting out to teach a new generation of girls the importance of good manners.

I held a manners/charm school party for the little girls in my neighborhood and they were just delighted. With the help of Barbie and her friends we learned how to set a proper table (forks on the left, knives on the right, fold those napkins, please!), we learned to pass food properly, answer the door correctly and why it is important to treat each other with respect. When I went down the provided 'Manners Checklist' the girls were stunned and pleased to learn that being kind to friends and believing each girl is her "own princess" was a box to be checked. It sent them into a fit of giggles, squeals and happy sighs. With glittering crowns on their heads, thank you notes written and their own checklists and placemats to take home from the party the girls thought they had hit the jackpot. What they did not know was that each one would get to take home their own new Princess Charm School Barbie or one of her friends Hadley or Delancey.




The Barbie Princess Charm School DVD will be debuting in your area mid-September. See a preview here. Charm School Barbie and friends are already in stores. You can find them at your local Walmart and Target today!


Disclaimer: MPR was not paid for this post. Products received are for review purposes only. Opinions are MPR's only. The Barbie Charm School party was given by working with the One2One Network.

Glow Crazy Review

The Glow Crazy Distance Doodler is one of those fun, creative toys that works really well for both boys and girls and varying ages. For ages 6 and up this toy is quite cool. Using a laser you can draw and write from up to ten feet away! What kid wouldn't find that fun?

The Glow Crazy ($19.99) has narrow or wide beams, makes silhouettes, allows kids to draw freehand or use the stencils that come with the kit. It's a good no mess toy that occupies kids time no matter what the season.

The kit consists of -

1 Dual Action Magic Lightwand (order online or via TV and you score a second wide beam wand free)

2 Jumbo Wall Clings (12"x 30" each)

4 Stencil Sheets

Fun Tip Booklet

All add up to many hours of fun and all you need to do is add the dark. My kids thought it was a riot. They enjoyed tracing their toys and themselves with the Glow Crazy. Despite the toy being for ages 6+ my three year old had a total blast with it as well.

MPR Rating: Four Stars.

Disclaimer: MPR was not paid for this post. Products received are for review purposes only. Opinions are MPR's only.

Monster High Walkie Talkie Review

Monster High Walkie Talkies have invaded my home. Available since May they come in sets of two ($20) and are available at Toys R Us. I was anxious to see how these toys went over in our house as well as how durable they would be. Additionally, I wanted to know how clear the sound was and how it traveled.

The Monster High Walkie Talkies performed well on all counts. I liked how lightweight each one is and how easily it fit into my child's hands. She and her little sister used them immediately and then they shared them with friends. Everyone liked using them inside the house and outside of it. They moved from the basement to the loft on the fourth floor and could still hear each other too. I loved how I didn't have to add batteries as they are included and the antennae can bend and survived the two year-old in our home. Geared for ages 7 and up, my five year-old could easily figure out the push/talk buttons, but the Morse code was too challenging. I don't know Morse code so I couldn't help her in that department.

Overall, these are fun, inexpensive toys that have a different look about them that I like. While geared for girls they aren't princess or blinged out, which is a change I adore.

MPR Rating: Four Stars.

Disclaimer: MPR was not paid for this post. Products received are for review purposes only. Opinions are MPR's only.

*Image from pixiehollowenchanties.com

Friday Giveaway- Kids Grab Bag

This week I am offering up a few things in one prize pack!


Two sets of Silly Charmz (two per pack)
One sample of Moon Dough
A grey Kiddie Catch All for the car
A Wii 'The 1,000,000 Pyramid' Game (rated E for Everyone)
Two purple Damage-free Hanging hooks from Command Brand
A Parking Pal
A five mini-pack of Party Dough (think play-doh).

Enter to win by commenting, tweeting or following this blog. If you have already done that- follow this blog. Let me know what you did and don't forget your email so I can contact you. I will choose a winner at random on June 3, 2011. Good Luck!

**Congratulations to Tiffany! She won the Kid's Grab Bag!

Fun Find-Muttles

The package was very small.  How could their be any sort of fun toy in here I remember thinking.  Oh wait. I am not a five year old girl.  I don't love all things teeny tiny.  That's the thing about Muttles.  They are incredibly small little dogs based on hybreeds. Think Yorkies crossed with Schnauzers and you get a Snorkie.  In fact, that is what was in our package.  A tiny black Snorkie she named Cuddly.  

Muttles ($3.99) are "cute collectibles combined with a family friendly website that lets fans do a little “Social Petworking.” Each one is only 3" and comes withwith a set of papers, an adoption certificate, trading cards and temporary Muttle tattoos.  It is a little girls dream.  The ability to collect and "adopt" these cute little animals charms them fast.  My daughter has taken to toting hers around in a small bag and making sure to feed, love, and play with her Snorkie Muttle daily.

Muttles are available at Target, Five Below and online at Enterplay.  They make great gifts, stocking stuffers, Easter basket additions and more. 

Discovery Toys- Board Games

If you are a parent you have probably been invited to a Discovery Toys party.  I know I have been to quite a few parties.  Each time I have purchased a toy and been quite satisfied. In fact, the toys I bought with my first child are still in nearly perfect condition and working order after five years and two kids.  They are ready for the third child to have her go at them.  However, these were all baby toys. I hadn't ventured into the older kid category until Discovery Toys sent me two board games.  I'm still impressed.

Sounds Like Phonics -Letter Fun Lotto ($17.50) is perfect for the 3 and up set.  A little pricier than your average kids board game it contains a full educational but fun punch.  The game helps the new to school set explore their thinking, reading and language skills by finding hidden letters within the illustrations of boards and cards.  It's matching, alphabet skills and spelling all in one game.  It includes four lotto boards, 36 cards and 50 plastic markers.  My kids love this game and it makes a great gift too.

Friendship Island ($25.00) is great for ages five and above.  It encourages communication in children, which I think is a true find.  This unique game is set up to teach social skills and emotional awareness while kids explore the issues behind making friends.  It seems so simple in concept but it works well.  It's a good game that the whole family can play too.  There is an easy and a more challenging level and a parent guide for encouraging dialogue with your kids. 

Discovery Toys covers all ages of a child's growth and development. Their toys last a long time and can be passed from child to child.  You can purchase them from a consultant or online. 

MPR Rating:  Four Stars.   

Disclaimer:  MPR was not paid for this post.  Products received are for review and testing purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only. 

MPR's 2010 Holiday Gift Guide

Small, sweet, a touch different.  Things I love that won't have you going over budget this year.  It's MPR's Holiday Gift Guide. By no means comprehensive but feel free to peruse the archives for even more ideas. 

Stocking Stuffers

EOS lip balm - ($3.99) small little spheres are super moisturizing lip balm.  Sold in a cute trio at your local Walgreens and available online too!  Alone or in the set the mint, medicated tangerine, lemon drop and more make great stocking stuffers.

Arbonne sea salt scrub-($28)  Smells heavenly, is super moisturizing and exfoliating. Perfect for winter skin!  It comes in three scents- citrus, lavendar and yling ylang.  I love it in the gift size or tub. 

Butter London nail lacquer ($14) No formaldehyde, no toulene, no DBP.  Just amazing and unique colors. 

Lonely Planet's 'Moveable Feast' ($10) available at Amazon.  A nice find for travel lovers and foodies.

Funky Men's Socks.  Weird, maybe?  But I find them at Target all year round.  My husband loves wild argyle colored ones, skull and crossbones, fish, whatever.  They are stylish if done right and add a bit more to their sometimes mundane wardrobe. 

EZ Sox- Perfect for little ones just learning to dress themselves. The adorable animal sox will teach them how to put them on and make quite a fashion statement. 

Gifts for Kids and Baby

Petit Tresor baby for Target- ($3-20) In soft, sweet pastels this limited time brand is being offered in bibs, blankets, lovies, hats, pants, sleepers and onesies.  I love the boys bear print with gingham accents. 

Red Tool box- Geared for boys and girls ages 8 and up these are real tools that kids can use.  It's a wonderful way to teach a child about woodworking and spend quality time together. 

eeBoo Picnic Game - ($16.99) Fill your plate and blanket with yummy treats and don't forget the napkin! A fun board game for kids 5 and up.  A tea party version is also available. 

Weeble Wobbles- They're baaack! Classic toys from Playskool they offer a great way for the toddler set to play and create a world full of imaginary scenarios. 

Princess Bubble- A great take on princesses when you have had enough of all those other pink, frilly, under-the-sea crown-wearing girls.  I love reading it to my daughters and giving them a better idea of what the world has to offer while still being under the guise of a princess. Truly a modern fairy tale.

Frances England- Any of her CD's will do.  Preschool age kids and under will love her sweet voice that doesn't sound too folksy or babyish. 

Babypop Designs Kids Cape- In almost any color and design these simple capes work for both boys and girls ten and under.  Order early to get them on time!  Your kid won't want to take their personalized cape off!

Carter's also has adorable holiday pajamas for a variety of ages as well as cute and stylish party clothes like this dress. 

For the Tweens and Teens

Tired of itunes gift cards or gift cards in general?  Don't want to give in and buy another expensive gadget or $200 pair of jeans or kicks?  Check out these ideas!

Beanies and Crocheted headbands- So many styles and colors to choose from at this Etsy shop. 

Snowglobe rings ($20), Cool tights or leggings, Twitter and Hashtag jewelry.

Pelican’s 2390 Flashlight to aid in any potential roadside emergency. In the event of a flat tire, it features a bright LED for ultimate illumination and a strong aluminum body that can double as a self defense item. Pelican’s 2390 Flashlight is the perfect trunk item in sticky situations too.

A custom skateboard ($60) from Zazzle! American Eagle Striped Sweater ($39.50) or Hammacher Schlemmer's Roll Up Drum Kit ($60) are great ideas for the guys.

The Find has these cool, manhole cover rugs for $25 too.

The Men Folk

Uncommon Goods has these great Whiskey Stones for $19 and Recycled Laptop Sleeves ($30) or a Bokashi Compost Starter ($60) if he likes to live in the garden.  For another $20 throw in a Salsa of the Month club gift from Amazing Clubs. 

Eastern Mountain Sports has a Gadget Charger pod for $50.

Mix Tape Memory Stick ($19.95 ) from X-treme Geek.




Last, but not Least, For Her

Murano Glass ring at Forzieri ($38) comes in beautiful colors for all tastes.  Mac and Jac Flyaway Cardigan ($69) from Nordstrom is warm, cozy and super stylish. 

Philosophy fans rejoice!  Their travel set is now available for $35 at Sephora and is great for jet-setters.  Sephora is a wonderful way to find gifts for the beauty queen in your life no matter what the age too.

Kohl's and New Balance have a pink running/workout jacket that is part of 'Race for the Cure' ($34). Pants, tanks and more are available in the pretty pink and black motif.

Karmaloop.com has an amazing Jack BB Dakota coat for $64 that is a must for any woman's wardrobe. 

Indie Film of the Month Club by Film Movement($42) with nothing to return ever.


Happy Holiday's! 

Olivia the Pig Plush Doll & 2-in1 Play Set

Team Mom Review

You probably know Olivia from the best-selling children’s book and hit Nick Jr. television show. Now Spin Master has taken her bold personality and wild imagination and created a collection of fun and creative toys for children ages 4 and up.  Courtesy of Spin Master and Team Mom we received the Olivia 2-in-1 play set and an 8" plush Olivia doll dressed up like a cow.

First, the Olivia doll ($9.99). This plush pig comes dressed as a cow with bright red bows bedecking her ears. I gave her to my two year-old to start and she hugged Olivia and then put her aside.  I explained it was a pig dressed as a cow and she looked at me like I was crazy.  My four year-old didn't show much interest either.  However, this toy is well made and you can find it dressed in other outfits like a princess and more.  If you know a little girl who loves Olivia then this doll will be a hit.  Available at Toys R Us, Amazon and Target. 

In our house it was love at first sight with the Olivia 2-in-1 play set ($29.99). This toy is awesome!  Both my girls could not wait to get it out of its box and every adult who has come across it in our home finds it simply amazing.  It provides so many play scenarios and the handle at the top of the roof makes it easy to tote from play space to space.  The set includes one Olivia doll, 23 accessories for her house or pirate ship and a sticker sheet to decorate both sets.  The house unfolds by hinges to separate ways (a few fingers have been pinched but nothing severe) and it easy for small hands to open and close the play set.  This Olivia toy has been a huge hit in our house. I highly recommend it as a gift or to put on your list this holiday season.  It is available at Amazon, Toys R Us and Target.

MPR Rating:  Five Stars.

Disclaimer:  This is a Team Mom review. MPR was not paid for this post. Team Mom supplied the review items for testing/review purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only.

Pop on Pals Amusement Park Playset

Spin Master introduces Pop On Pals a set of toys that features a world of fun pals, pets, vehicles and playsets! Geared for ages 2 and up each set features mix n’ match fun that allows little ones to let their imaginations soar with possibilities. For example a fireman can become a musician, a princess becomes a baker through inter-changing rings you place on the 'Pal', you get the idea.  Pop On Pals makes for great imaginative play that also helps kids to develop their fine motor skills.

As a Team Mom tester we received the Amusement Park Playset ($34.99) and from the moment I pulled the brightly colored box out of its packing my youngest child got so excited.  We let her test it alone at first, without the aid of the four year-old and she was in heaven.  After being shown a few things like putting the 'Pal' in the car she let it ride down the roller coaster, ride the Ferris wheel and really loved the music the toy made as she used it.  There are five activities in all on this toy with many lights, sounds and musical parts to it.  They can play the Strong Man game, ride the Dragon Ferris Wheel, the roller coaster and so much more.  It kept her interest for about a half hour initially.  Later that day our eldest (4) came home with a few friends and they all began to play with it too.  Since then it has become a nice addition to our toy collection with the kids integrating the Amusement Park playset in with their other toys.  My only issue with this set is that only one 'Pal' comes with it making it hard for more than one kid to play with it at a time.  Additional 'Pals' are available and I would highly recommend purchasing them up front.  The toy becomes less engaging with only one 'Pal'. 

In addition to the playsets like a castle and town building scenes you can buy additional packs of 'pals', pets, vehicles and 2-in-1 sets to create many adventures with Pop on Pals.  Priced moderately and not overly busy, loud or irritating Pop on Pals playsets make a fun, entertaining toy that lets your child's imagination roam through the town.  Pop on Pals are available at Toys R Us, Walmart, Target, Amazon and many other retailers nationwide. 

MPR Rating: Three Stars.

Disclaimer:  I am a member of Team Mom.  Product received via Team Mom and I was not paid for this post.  All products received were for review purposes only.  Opinions are that of MPR only.

Swinxs and a Giveaway too!

Swinxs, the computerized toy that allows for creativity and a lot of social interaction.  When I try to describe this toy, other parents look at me as if I'm talking about just another video or computer game.  The beauty of Swinxs ($150) is that while it is a computer there is no screen.  It's screen free. It talks, it listens and best of all- it keeps kids interested.

Right out of the box, my daughter was all about putting on one of the bands and dragging it outside to play with the other kids on the block.  What I love about Swinxs is that there are a variety of games to play- musical chairs, tag and more- and it is all physical.  The kids aren't glued to a screen or standing in one place.  They are actively using their imaginations, brains and friends to play all these games.  It's portable too.  Swinxs can go all over the place because it is small and lightweight.  It's great for parties, taking on trips and bringing to friends or grandparents homes. 

My preschool age daughter found it easy to use as she listened to the Swinxs voice, colors and sounds gives commands and interact with her.   And with my kids it is good that the console is also water-resistant.  It lasts up to four hours, is durable and has a single play mode.  As an only child I would have loved that, however up to ten kids can play as well.  The wristbands fit comfortably, come in an array of colors, start the game and help kids keep track of their progress and profiles. 

Overall, this toy is an ingenious idea.  It provides many hours of fun that is interactive, entertaining and educational.  I highly recommend it.

MPR Rating:  Four Stars.

GIVEAWAY-Want your own Swinxs?  Enter to win one today!  A $150 value!  All you have to do is head over here and tell me your favorite post from this week, then comment here. Want an additional chance to win? Then sign up to follow me on Twitter (veamason) and comment here.  One winner will be chosen at random on Monday, December 28. 

Disclaimer: MPR was not paid for this posting. Products were received and kept for testing purposes. The opinions in this review are solely my own.

It's the Holiday Gift Guide!

Welcome to Mummy's (MPR, for short) Holiday Gift Guide! There's a little something for everyone on your list and a whole lot of green. In the spirit of giving and helping one another out many of the wares below are from the fabulous world of Etsy. It's all about helping mankind and now Etsy even allows you to shop local. Shop, have fun browsing and enjoy!

Happy Holidays!

~Mummy

For the Women, BFF, Mother, Girl in your life-


Crabtree & Evelyn- From holiday gift sets , eco-totes and all things spa and gifty.

BusyBodyBook Wall Calendar ($14.95) this is a steal of a gift. Perfect for the organizer in your family or the person who wants to be 'the organizer'. Containing a column for each day of the month for each person in the family this wall calendar has helped keep my family sane for over two years now.

The Mi-Bag- Eco-friendly, stylish and affordable.


Zosimos Botanicals- Scented candles, make-up, skincare and more. 100% organic and safe too.

For Mom & Baby-

BornFit- An active wear collection for moms with gifts for the babes too. Check out the Baby Bear Onesie ($24), the Cameron Pullover ($68), Torrey Full Zip Jacket ($76).

SKIN for baby by Monica Olsen - An amazing skincare line for women and babies. The travel kit for kids is simply wonderful. I take it everywhere we travel.

Hostess Gifts and all those who fall under the "Not quite sure what you are looking for but you have to buy or send a gift" Try these great resources.

Alex and Sam Need a hostess gift? Something for the chic baby in your life? Alex and Sam is a philanthropic online gift boutique featuring designer, handcrafted and imported gifts and jewelry by prominent and up-and-coming designers. Proceeds are donated to participating non-profit organizations like Memorial Sloan Kettering Hospital, the Starlight Foundation, the Fund for Public Schools. Non-profit organizations can alos register with the site to help turn a fabulous gift into one that can keep giving.

Get 'eco chic' with environmental activist Ann Wizer and her whimsical line of credit card holders, mini make-up bags, shopping bags, shoulder totes and laptop holders and more made from recycled trash. Yes, I said trash. A portion of each purchase goes to the XS Project, a nonprofit organization that raises environmental awareness and helps trash pickers—those who source the raw material— and their families. Great for teens, sitters, friends and female family members.

Michael Buble's 'Crazy Love' CD


John Kelly Chocolates- Truffle Fudge bars, anyone? Yes, please! Bring them to a party, give them as a gift. Everyone will love you.

Suzanne Graham for You- Scented soaps that are gentle and 100% natural. Simply Delish!



Couleur Nature- French designs and oh so natural. Placemats, tea towels, tablecloths and more.

Squier Design's Adirondack Inspired Tea lights.


For the Kiddos

Putumayo Kids 'Family Christmas' CD- Festive songs the whole family will enjoy. Featuring 11 tracks from various artists with everything from jugband bluegrass styling to retro swing sounds.

Leapfrog's Zippity

The 'I Love You' Book by Todd Parr

The Nutcracker and the Mouse King by Gail de Marcken

for ages four and up.

The Christmas Magic book by Lauren Thompson


Pal Podzzz Nightlights-($19.99)

Tutu's by Allison's Wonderland- ($10-23) Adorable. Handmade and she even has holiday creations for your little dreamer.

Mudpuppy has items for girls and boys ranging from baby to young adult. Block puzzles, stickers, stationary, flash cards, banks and more all with a whimsical, educational feel that is top quality all the way.



YummyPockets- iphone covers and more. Great stocking stuffer and for teens.

Vinyl Fruit's very own wall decals. Think lifesize Edward Cullen silouette. There's even Team Jacob stuff, if that is your thing.

A DVD that is simply enchanting. The book is wonderful too. Get both here. I don't love Thomas but now my kids do and I can actually tolerate this wonderfully done movie. The sunsets look real. It's beautiful.


Invasion of the Bristlebots - Crafty for ages 8 and up.

Paper Fashion Fancy- Crafty for ages 8 and up.

For the Menfolk

Green Earth Waterless Car Wash kit. You read it here first!


Two Trees Tshirt from Critter Jitters.

Retro 'Map' Cufflinks.

Trio of soaps. I know, who wants that? Many guys, trust me. Made from goats milk and available in a variety of fragrances you are sure to find one he'll love.





Want more? Then feel free to browse through the five and four star reviews and more in the MPR sidebar.

Mudpuppy Zoo Animal Block Puzzle

Winner of eleven Oppenheim Toy Portfolio awards just this year, Mudpuppy recently sent me one of their Zoo Animal Block puzzles ($14.00). Geared for children ages 3 and up this six-sided block toy (2"cubes, 9 total) is six times the fun!

Mudpuppy Block Puzzles make kids think in multiple dimensions. Each puzzle creates six pictures which keeps your child entertained as well as continuously thinking. Each set is printed with non-toxic ink and comes in its own storage box that is easy for the preschool set to use. This puzzle makes a great set of colorful building blocks too. My daughter and her friends amuse themselves quite often with this puzzle set and use it to help them build towers as well.

I love that it is a neat and compact set which makes a perfect and affordable present but also travels well. It's lightweight and with its own storage box that you can take anywhere. The pictures comprised of pandas, tigers, monkeys, giraffes and more are bright and pleasing to a child too. Other sets include works by Eric Carle and a variety of other kid friendly themes. Mudpuppy makes quality products that you can trust. I love having them in my home.

MPR Rating: Four Stars.

Toy Safety Tips by Malcolm Denniss:

Malcolm Denniss is the Technical Director for SGS Consumer Testing Services and he offers up these five important tips for parents.

1. The most important aspect of buying gifts for children (whether for holidays or birthdays) is to make sure the toy or game is age-appropriate for the child. Nearly every toy or game will list the appropriate age on the box. The guidelines were developed by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission and Toy Industry Association, and take into account the typical ability of children to handle certain toys. Buying toys for children that are younger than the indicated age, even though we think a child may grow into it or is capable may lead to inappropriate play patterns and hazards that a child is not yet prepared for.

2. Children are naturally excited to play with new toys at holiday times, often in a robust and possibly in an overly enthusiastic manner. It is important that parents periodically check their children’s toys for any damage or breakage, which could create sharp edges or a choking hazard. If a toy looks damaged, take it away! If necessary, contact the manufacturer to verify that it is still safe to play with.

3. While toy shopping during the holidays, check recall notices at the toy or department store to verify none of child’s existing toys have been recalled and are still in your child’s room or toy box.

4. If you are buying toys for nephews, nieces, or other children that you may not see on a regular basis, it is always a good idea to check with the parents and make sure you know what they think is appropriate for the child, particularly for very young children where maturity can vary significantly. Be particularly careful when buying for children under the age of three years. This age group often still puts toys in their mouths, so check the front of the toy package to see if the toys have small parts before buying.

5. Teach kids outdoor and indoor play safety. It’s important to teach them to not play ball games near roadways and to always look where they are running if the ball goes outside the play area. Never let them play near roads and areas where automobiles are driving. Do not let them play with flying toys indoors where they can not only knock over fragile decorations but can also hit bystanders.

Robbert Bobbert CD & Giveaway

Little Monster Records proudly introduces Robbert Bobbert and the Bubble Machine ($15.98), a new CD from Apples in Stereo front man Robert Schneider. This CD is filled with positive indie rock style songs that will keep your child dancing and singing for hours.

I first played the Robbert Bobbert CD before nap time and quickly realized it was a bit too energetic for that time of day. It is however a good car CD and great for getting your kid into a post-nap get up and go mood. The song, 'We R Super Heroes' is my daughter's favorite as she dons her satin cape and flies around the room while belting out the lyrics to the song. Much of the CD has a Beach Boy type sound to it that is infectious and fun. There is a bit of a robotic feel to some of the music and it might not appeal to all children but I found it wasn't grating to my nerves and something that didn't get old too quickly with my kid. What's even better is that the CD comes complete with coloring pages too.

Robbert Bobbert and the Bubble Machine is available at Little Monster Records and Amazon.

MPR Rating: Four Stars.

I'm giving away ONE Robbert Bobbert Prize Package too!! Just comment and leave your email address (for contact purposes only!) and I'll choose a winner at random on April 17, 2009.









The prize package includes:
1 Robbert Bobbert and the Bubble Machine CD, 10 coloring pages and one Gazillion Bubble Machine from Fun Wise!

The award winning Gazillion Bubble Machine’s motorized rotating bubble wands put you in the midst of a bubble blizzard blowing 4,000 bubbles per minute! The easy carry handle lets you take the “bubblebration” wherever you go. Each Bubble Machine comes with an 8 oz. bottle of The One and Only, Gazillion Bubble solution that attaches right to the Bubble Machine to continuously feed the wands. Requires 6 AA batteries, not included.

Team Mom- Bella Sara

Bella Sara is the leading trading card group for girls. This inspirational online horse game about the land of North of North presents girls with positive messages about friendship and some safe online fun. Not content to just sit on its laurels Bella Sara has created two new parts to its line- Bella Sara Miniatures Series 1 Collection and Bella Sara Treasures.

The concept is simple. Just like baseball cards girls can collect and trade Bella Sara horse character cards ($1.99). Each card contains a code that can be entered online. The Miniatures Series has an added bonus of providing a soft, velvety miniature horse (20 in all) inside each card pack. Girls can collect, trade and love these little horses creating offline games in the process. With Bella Sara Treasures ($2.99), the eighth series in this line, there are printable activities, bonus codes, wallpapers, coloring pages, jigsaw puzzles and more.

I think that Bella Sara (5 yrs and up) is a great product for girls, however in our house my two daughters (an infant and a three year-old) are a bit too young to really have any fun with the cards. My preschooler loved the stickers included in the Treasures pack and really enjoyed making up imaginary games with the Miniatures horse figurines. The online games, loading the codes in and learning about the different characters was way over her head. The Bella Sara website is well done though and I can see how it would really entice girls of the elementary school age.

I think the Bella Sara concept is wonderful as it features natural wonders, historical artifacts and gives girls a chance to explore a very non-threatening world that parents won't have to constantly monitor. It was created by Gitte Odder Braendgaard who devised the line when she worked as a social worker in Denmark. She wanted children to have a game that was made up of meaningful messages and imagination -building game play. I can definitely see how Bella Sara does that and would recommend it to anyone who has a child who loves horses or is looking for a quality gaming website for their child.

MPR Rating: Three Stars

To celebrate Treasures, the eighth series in this trading card line, Bella Sara is kicking off a contest for a chance for kids to win an exciting Treasure Hunt Party for themselves and their friends! It runs through April 30 so enter to win on the Bella Sara website now!

Parents Critter Conga

What kid doesn't like to make music? For that matter, what kid doesn't like to make noise? In my house my daughter loves to run around and make a drum out of anything or create a horn out of any cylinder type object. When we opened the box from Team Mom with the Parents Critter Conga inside her eyes lit up and she said, "Oooh, can I have that?" Yes, indeed.

The Critter Conga ($30) is another hit from the Parents line of toys. Geared for ages 18 months and up it features a black-spotted Leopard Conga Drum, Giraffe maracas, an Antelope whistle, a Tambourine lid, Snake drumsticks and a Crocodile cabasa and clacker. All these African animal themed instruments will stir up your child's creative and musical juices. It will also improve their motor skills and memory not to mention keep them and their siblings or friends real busy with all the tapping, twirling, blowing, banging and just plain shaking they will be doing.

My daughter, who is almost three, loves this set. She makes up games with the animals and has a blast making music with each instrument too. Especially with that conga drum! The Critter Conga is a great toy set and makes a wonderful and reasonably priced gift for both boys and girls alike. It is available online here or at your local Costco store. As an added bonus all Parents toys are 100% phthalate-free too, so they are fun and safe.

TEAM MOM- ROUNDUP

Team Mom regularly sends out products to reviewers and this month it seems we were inundated. Do I detect a bit of the holiday's coming up? Let's get started.







Bella Sara Baby Bella Trading Cards- For kids ages 5-12 comes the new horse-themed trading card game. Through the use of the cards (they come in baseball card-like packets) and the website kids can feed, train and care for their horses as well as play games and other assorted activities. It's a safe environment for kids online that parents will be happy to know about because no interaction with others online is possible. It's just your child and their computer. The website also has pages to color and wallpaper for your computer in the Baby Bella theme.


This is definitely something girls could easily get into. My child, being a toddler, is a bit too young. She liked looking at the horse pictures on the cards for a few minutes but that was all. Each blister pack comes with seven random cards and there are 22 families, 10 teachers and 13 magical toys to collect in all. I am sure more will be created soon. Each card can be logged into your child's personal account online and used to collect horseshoes (can also be purchased online-$5.00 for 1,200). Horseshoes expand the online world of Baby Bella.


There are a lot of Bella Sera online games and products one can purchase so it is worth checking out. How many of us know a young kid who is really into horses at one time or another? Almost everyone. You can find Baby Bella cards to purchase here but Wal-mart, Toys R Us and more sell them as well. (MPR gives it -Four Stars)

Kid Kleen Bath Blizzard ($19.99)- From Spinmaster comes the newest bubble machine for your bathtub. Hypo-allergenic, tears and wheat-free this bubble maker rocks! Or so I thought. It is super easy to assemble and get going and really lives up to its name of Bath Blizzard. It created such a large amount of bubbles in the tub at an even, regular pace and for about 20 minutes at least with only one capful of bubbles. My husband and I were very impressed. Our daughter was ecstatic! This was the best bathtub toy we had seen in a long time and we weren't worried about the bubble formula for once either. I also liked how the machine could be hung from the faucet of the tub and the bubbles just poured out from there. There was no mess on the side of the tub and it was not in the way when it came down to actually cleaning my kid.

I was all set to give this product a five star review until the third use when the machine just simply stopped producing bubbles. It whirred away like normal but no bubbles came out. I had cleaned it out on the last use so I knew it wasn't that. I did all the steps correctly- twice. Still no bubbles. I consulted the trouble-shooting section of the manual and nothing worked. No bubbles. My child was heartbroken and asked about the machine for days. We had to hide it. I let my husband take a crack at it and he did all the same steps at least three more times. Then we began to run low on bubble solution. That's another thing- the container for that should come in a bigger size. I then emailed the companies help line and so far have heard nothing back. I'm very disappointed with Spinmaster and Kid Kleens Bath Blizzard. This would have made an excellent holiday gift for kids of all ages. (MPR gives it - Three Stars due to being great at first but not lasting.)

Aquadoodle Mat ($25.99)- Also from Spinmaster this large mat (32" x 32") is a good toy to take with you when you are visiting someone. It will not only occupy your child's time (ages 36 months to 7 years) but folds up into a flat, compact shape. The pen only needs to be filled with water and you are ready to go and create water drawn masterpieces. Even at the age of two my child loved this toy. She puts it on tables or the floor and just draws to her hearts content. The images stay up for about 60 seconds and then disappear to make room for others. The sides of the mat have games and illustrations on how to draw shapes and simple objects like a house or cat. She loved this aspect of the mat as well. I love that there is no mess involved at all. When she is finished we simply empty out the pen and fold up the mat. That is all.

I think this a great buy because it spans many ages, is creative and has the no mess factor. (MPR gives it- Four Stars.)

Sesame Street K'NEX

When I was my daughter's age we did not have cable TV. We did have PBS though and I would watch both showings of the same episode of Sesame Street every day if possible. I still have my tiny Cookie Monster that got me through many a scary night. Even in college. So I was super excited when K'NEX and Team Mom sent me the new Sesame Street-themed building set (Ages 2-5 yrs) for my daughter to test out with her friends.

We received the Cookie Monster building set ($10.99) which comes in a blue canister with a Cookie Monster head shaped lid. Inside we found colorful blue K'NEX rods, connectors and blocks as well as an activity card for different building alternatives. I subtly placed the canister on a table and when my daughter arrived home from school with a friend she and her friend immediately went towards it. Unlike other K'NEX blocks these kid ones are easy for little ones to use and can be added to other kiddie block sets. Each set contains about 14-15 pieces and there are a few Sesame Street characters to choose from.

The kids tackled the pieces together and looked over the other building ideas in a matter of minutes. While they initially needed help figuring the set out it was a good way for them to work together and share a toy. They liked how the limbs on Cookie were movable too. Once my daughter discovered that Cookie could be built in a variety of ways she wanted to play with the toy often with or without us. She now loves to tote her Cookie Monster around in a stroller as well.

I found this toy to be a great way for kids to play and work together and use their imaginations. Either gender would like one of these sets and the price of $10.99 for the basic set is reasonable. There are other sets as well that are priced higher but include more pieces and they are still priced fairly. The K'NEX Sesame Street blocks make a great addition to your playroom, classroom or as a gift. I highly recommend them and the easy store canister.

Fun Find- Flaky Friends- Blogger Made Stuffed Animals

Sarah, over at Hollywood Flakes who is by no means less than fabulous and hilarious, has created her own line of stuffed animals. Flaky Friends. These funny little handmade creatures fall into the following categories- Insecure friends, Obnoxious, Sweet, Freaky and Cheap. They are for more than just kids too. If you don't believe me check out this one, the unlucky rabbit. I want to call it my very own and pass it out to friends.

Besides having a blog and Etsy shop she also has a newsletter which features new animals, special offers and discounts. Sarah is serious about her business but entirely creative and whimsical about her animals. From cute to funny these animals range in price from $4-60. They make great imaginative gifts and she does custom orders too. If anything you need to check out the descriptions Sarah applies to each stuffed animal. The yellow kitty? It apparently doesn't take lip from anyone and the Vintage Girl Scout Turtle is up to no good after lights out. You've been warned camp counselors.

Whether you are looking for a cute gift for yourself, a friend or a child in your life you can definitely find something at Flaky Friends. If you want a more edgy creation Sarah has that too. Who says you are too old for fuzzy friends?! Not me!

Flaky Friends is offering all MPR readers 20% off with the coupon code, "I Love Mummy" and a $5 kickback until the end of July. Go ahead and treat yourself or someone you love to a Flaky Friend today. It is sure to bring a laugh, smile or both.