mamachallenge | Real Solutions for Real Parents | Dallas Blog

Real Solutions for Real Parents by Autumn Rose Reo

Make the Most of Your Sweetest Moments

By 120 Comments

This sweet look at life is brought to you by BASKIN-ROBBINS. No matter what life brings, make the most of your sweetest moments. 

The other day while I was buying clothes for the kids, a little tear rolled down my check.

As I continued to thumb through the new size for my son, I kept looking at shirts and thinking, “there’s no way he can wear these!?? These are much to big for my little guy.” Except I knew I was wrong.


He is exactly THAT size. 

As I stepped back at the rack, I realized at in the big room full of clothes consigned for the sale, that each of these rows of clothes weren’t just a room full of well-kept hand-me-downs. They were like little time capsules of each family’s experiences as a child experienced their first day of school, Christmas, a birthday – whatever – they had done it in that shirt. And now it was time for my kid to do the same. 

I wasn’t sure if it was one of those hormonal mama moments or what, but all of a sudden, I realized that I looked like Gene Simmons with my mascara running down my face. 

However, it was a good thing. I was getting my own little reminder of how quick they grow up. 

Later when I battled sat in the carpool line to get them from school, I didn’t immediately take them up to start the everyday grind of snack, homework, dinner, bath, book and then bed. 

Instead we went to Baskin-Robbins.

But today it wasn’t just ice cream either. We went for sweet goodness – all.the.way. We went for ice cream sandwiches.

Each of the kids bellied up to the bar to pick two warm cookies – chocolate chip, macadamia  nut, chocolate chocolate chunk or peanut butter. Part of me wanted to order for them, but another mama moment made me see they didn’t need me to do that anymore. 

They could make their own decisions…without my mama’s help. 

Next pairing it with their favorite pick of ice cream. The girl quickly pointed to something pink, purple and filled with sprinkles. The boy, who thinks long and hard about each selected in life, landed on the newest BR flavor, Cookie Jar Mashup, Filled with OREO®, CHIPS AHOY!® and NUTTER BUTTER® cookie pieces with vanilla ice cream swirled with a chocolate ribbon. I gloated a little as I felt he had made just the choice I would have. (Points for mom for instilling good taste.)

Next came the toppings  – one with more sprinkles the other one without. Last the slightly warm cookies sandwiched the ice cream together for two awesomely gooey treats. 

Normally, I would have begun the freak out by requesting the cookies be put in a bowl and carefully asked them not to get their clothes dirty. Actually, I’m pretty sure I would have pulled out the placements I have in the car (yes, I do), but today, it was about just enjoying the simple things.  

Baskin-Robbins-New-Ice-Cream-Sandwiches

Like ice cream and cookies. And lots of love. 

And man, it was a mess. Partly because it’s Texas and it’s already 75 degrees. And the other part because they’re kids and that’s what they do. They make big messes. BIG BIG MESS.

Baskin-Robbins-New-Ice-Cream-Sandwiches

But somehow I didn’t care as we licked the remaining bite and ran to the bathroom to get it off our fingers, face, and my toe. 

Today was about making the most of our sweetest moments. 

And you should too. 

Make time today to celebrate your sweetest moments. One lick at a time. 

Baskin-Robbins-New-Ice-Cream-Sandwiches

Enter now to create your sweetest moments with a giveaway for a Baskin-Robbins gift card for $31

a Rafflecopter giveaway 

Baskin-Robbins’ NEW Warm Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches and Sundaes can be personalized with a guest’s choice of warm cookies, their favorite ice cream flavor and topping. The chewy, warmed to order cookie options include Dark Chocolate Chunk, Double Fudge, Peanut Butter Chocolate and White Chunk Macadamia Nut Cookies. Guests can choose their cookie and mix and match more than one type of cookie in their sandwich or sundae for the ultimate flavor experience.

Don’t miss this #MAMACHALLENGE MOMENT 

Cars that Look Good for Less at the DFW Auto Show

By Leave a Comment

Since almost 40,000 hours are spent driving a car, it’s important to know how to make the best of your time behind the wheel. We are excited to partner with the to bring you the newest and coolest trend in cars for 2016.

Since having children seven years ago, I made the shift (begrudgingly) to my mom-mobile. While having an attractive car was important to me, features such as safety, navigation and integrated technology now outranked it. And it seemed that was the case with cars as well. After testing out 12 different SUVs, the trend seemed to be that either you could have a great looking car that lacked a good system or one that could pretty much cook you dinner, but wasn’t as sporty on the outside.

DFW-AutoShow


Thankfully, the trends for 2016 show that the leading car companies finally have married the two ideas to create some of the best looking AND most smartest cars – all in one package. You’ve seen seen the commercial where a once “grandma” car now looks so cool that no one can recognize it. Or driven up to the stoplight behind a hot car wondering “wow, what kinda car is that?” and then started Googling it to find out it was a once considered budget car?

Since technology features are now top of the list for everyone – not just early adopters, it’s time for even “budget” cars to get a leaner, meaner and more sleek look. 

Some of them that I’m looking forward to seeing at the

Another vehicle that has really gotten my attention is the Kia Sportage. Starting at $22,000 it’s hard to think there’s anything luxurious to look forward to, but this baby is loaded. I actually even had the opportunity to test drive the newest model that will also be a part of the Ride and Drive event at the DFW Auto Show.  

Get a look at these beauties with two tickets to the DFW Auto Show 2016! 

Never been to a car show? Here why it should attending the DFW Auto Show is so important, especially if you’re looking for a new car! 

DFW Auto Show
March 16-20, 2016
Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center
650 S. Griffin
Dallas, TX
At the show $12 for adults, $5 for children 6-12 and seniors 65+

Win 2 Tickets to the DFW Auto Show

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

Don’t miss this mamachallenge moment:

Restaurant School Fundraiser

Ultimate List of DFW Spring Break Fun

By 3 Comments

Spring Break is just around the corner. Here’s your guide to DFW Spring Break Fun at any age. 

Starting next week many North Texas schools will celebrate the spring break. For them, that means a break. For parents that means you are on the hunt for events and activities to keep them busy and hopefully for you to enjoy with them. But kids aren’t the only one who could benefit from spring break. March is full of fun events at any age. 

TexasDiscoveryGardens

PC: Texas Discovery Gardens

Any Weekend

Six Flags Over Texas

Opened now for Spring Break!


Total disclosure: Every day my kids are tormented by the sight of Six Flags as we live near the beloved amusement park. “Mom why can’t we go to Six Flags?” Well now you can because it’s OPEN for the 2017 season. Whether you’re there to watch the fun (I have motion sickness so I’m on the sidelines) or you’re that person that hits up every roller coaster, don’t fight the fun that happens from Six Flags Over Texas. And now with new rides and special spring break schedule of activities from 10 am – 10 pm, everyone can be a kid for the day at Six Flags! (Just make sure to check out the height requirements BEFORE you get there. (Nothing ever goes well when you get stoked to ride and your kiddo lacks an inch – believe me!) 

Spring-Break-Six-Flags

(Yes, Judge Roy Scream is his favorite. So he asked for a photo next to it!)

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Dallas/Fort Worth at Grapevine Mills 

Today / $21 for ages 3 and up 

Get ready to add colorful creations to LEGO® Friends Heartlake City and put your ninja skills to the ultimate test in the all-new LEGO® Ninjago City Adventure opening this March at LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Dallas/Fort Worth. Located in the former LEGO® City Fire Academy play area, the $850,000, 1,782-square- foot interactive play area is the first of its kind in the world, and the center’s third interactive experience to open within the last two years.

Ninjago City Adventure Rendering 2

PC: LEGOLAND Discovery Centre

Cirque du Soleil’s Kurios at Lone Star Park 

Now – March 26 / Tickets start at $35 

A mysterious and fascinating realm that disorients your senses and challenges your perceptions, just to be expected from Cirque du Soleil’s new Kurios. Step into the curio cabinet of an ambitious inventor who defies the laws of time, space and dimension in order to reinvent everything around him. Suddenly, the visible becomes invisible, perspectives are transformed, and the world is literally turned upside down.

WIN TICKETS TO MARCH 9 show below!

 

North Texas Irish Festival at Dallas Fair Park

March 3-5 / Tickets vary from $10 – $30 with some free and half price opportunities

Thirty-five years of a passion for the great traditions of Irish culture has made the North Texas Irish Festival one of the largest Celtic cultural celebrations in the country. The North Texas Irish Festival is known for bringing in hundreds of performers from Ireland and all over the world to entertain festival-goers here in North Texas wand lights up Fair Park with dining, dancing, music and revelry unlike anything you have yet seen.

Go before 7 pm on Friday and you can get in free or find one of their hidden coupons on the website and you get half off admission. 

Spring Break Camps

Ninja Camp at Chamberlain Studios

Spring Break (March 13-17) / Cost $ 80 per day/ $300 for week

This 35-year old martial arts school is led by a 10th degree black belt hosts the Spring Break Ninja Camp for boys AND girls. Camp is an all day option with karate, games, movies and their applauded ‘3 Steps to a Great Kid’ character building program.

Spring Break Ninja Camp-Chamberlain Studios

Discovery Camp and Spring Break Activities at the Perot Museum 

Extended Hours and times for Spring Break (March 13-17) / Cost vary per activity 

There is so much to see and do at the Perot Museum like the new amazing Maya: Hidden Worlds Revealed exhibit, but for spring break there is so much to do including a sleepover at the Perot with around the clock activities,  

SLEEPOVER. Ready, set, snooze! Spring is hopping with sleepovers at the Perot Museum. These overnight adventures, designed for children ages 6-14, come chock-full of round-the-clock fun, including behind-the-scenes access to the Museum’s 11 exhibit halls, exclusive demonstrations, hands-on discovery plus a late-night snack, 3D film and light breakfast to round out the experience. Spring dates are March 11 (Spring Break), April 21, May 5 (Boy Scouts NOVA Award), May 13 (all-girls sleepover) and May 26. Sleepovers are open to groups of all sizes – from a parent and child to entire organizations. Cost is $45 per child and $30 per adult chaperone.

SPRING BREAK. During Spring Break March 11-19, the Museum rolls out its popular daily activities plus Discovery Camps March 13-17 to keep pre-K through elementary kids content and constructive.

At select times during Spring Break March 11-19, visitors can enjoy daily live “science on the spot” demos, bookworm readings, science trivia and drop-in activities involving making clouds, rainbows, egg dyeing, pinwheels/wind energy and marshmallows, to name a few. Plus, little ones ages 5 and under can enjoy exploration crafts in the Moody Family Children’s Museum daily until 3 p.m. Check the website for detailed schedules. Activities are free to members and included with general admission for non-members. Note: See Spring Break hours below.

Plus Discovery Camp from March 13-17 will have pre-K through 4th graders unlocking secrets and uncovering a world buried over time and forgotten by many. Along with special access to Maya: Hidden Worlds Revealed, little explorers can soak up Maya culture through hands-on interactives such as building arches, deciphering hieroglyphs, translating the Maya calendar and more. For more info and to register, visit perotmuseum.org/camps.

PC: Perot Museum

PC: Perot Museum

STEM Camps at National Videogame Museum

March 7 -10 / $35 per child

The National Videogame Museum in Frisco will have two camps going on next week. The first one is sponsored by Coding Fun 4 STEM and children will learn how to code video games and how to program robots. You can also register your kids for the second camp hosted by Play-Well Teknologies, and they’re hosting a Minecraft Engineering workshop. These camps provide hands-on STEM learning and perfect for kids who love playing videogames.

NationalVideoGameMuseum

Sci-Tech Discovery Center in Frisco 

March 6-10 / camps vary by price 

The Sci-Tech Discovery Center in Frisco is hosting several camps next week about science and math. The variety of camps includes making your own toys, Maker workshops making engineering projects with LEGOS and learning about human anatomy with one-day classes like Grossology and Junior Mythbusters. Visit the website to get the details on all the camps and get registered! 

Scitech

PC: Scitech Discovery Center Facebook

Safari Week at Texas Discovery Gardens 

March 13 – 17 / $8 adults, $4 kids 

The Texas Discovery Garden & Butterfly House is open year round, but March 13-17 they are hosting a full week of spring break fun. Entitled “Safari Week,” each day features a cool craft and discovery themed activities such as Seeing and touching palm sized Madagascar hissing cockroaches on Monday, a butterfly hunt and release on Wed, live snake Thursday, foot long Malaysian Stick Friday and more. AND good to know- every Tuesday, including spring break, is ‘Pay as you wish’ so you can pay with a dollar, a dime or a smile.

Spring Break Safari Week

Spring Break Art Extravaganza at the Kimbell Art Museum 

March 14 – 17 / Free, but you must register 

Celebrate vacation time at the Museum with ongoing art activities, interactive family tours, storybook readings, teen studios led by guest artists, and children’s films. There is no charge for this program or to visit the permanent collection. No reservations required.

Kimbell

Looking for more fun for the family in Cowtown?

Then check out our Visit Fort Worth picks for March!

For Fun 

Main Event / various locations 

Now – April 9 opening at 9 am / prices vary

Main Event Entertainment rolled out its all-new “Spring FUNpass,” featuring all-you-can-play activities* – bowling, billiards, laser tag and more. (This is one of our favorites – with or without the kids. Especially on days you had planned to be outdoors and Mother Nature changes the plan.) 

Guests may choose from the following Pass options:

9 – 10:30 a.m.: Purchase the Spring FUNpass for just $12.95; pass is valid until 5 p.m.
10:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.: Spring FUNpass is $18.95; wristband is valid until 5 p.m.
5 p.m. – close: Spring FUNpass is $18.95; wristband is valid until close

WIN $100 gift card to Main Event below.

Main-Event-Bowling

“Let it Be” Presented by Dallas Summer Musicals at Music Hall at Fair Park

March 7-19 / $24.50 

The end of The Beatles era was never thought to be in sight when The Beatles played their last show on the roof of Apple Offices in 1969. Imagine what would have been if The Beatles continued their journey. Enter a time capsule and turn back in time to what would have been John Lennon’s 40th Birthday – October 9, 1980. For one night, the fab four come together again on stage after a decade apart performing other hits like Back in the USSR, Live and Let Die, Got to Get you into My Life, My Sweet Lord, Hey Jude, Woman, Helter Skelter, Paperback Writer & many more hits you never got to see performed live, on top of many other classics.

Texas Storytelling Festival at Denton Civic Center

March 9 – 12 / $10 at the door daypass

Turn off the TV, put down your devices the Texas Storytelling Festival celebrates the longest method of entertainment – storytelling. With concerts, workshops, activities and more, you’ll enjoy so much at this unique festival in Denton. AND Saturday March 11 is Kids’ Day! Admission to all Kids’ Day Activities is free for children and an accompanying adult. Lunch will be provided free for the children. Adults may wish to order a box lunch.

Storytelling

Want more ideas? 


Don't miss

Granbury Texas

 

Taste Dallas Farmers Market

Live On. Give On. Give Back.

By 114 Comments

We’re excited to partner with the 2015 Bakken Invitational Awards to share stories of what it means to Live On. Give On. and Give Back. And we’re providing $100 gift card to help you share in the spirit of giving back to the community. 

“Life isn’t about what you got, but what you gave.”

That’s a mantra that I like to say I live by, but when you take a look at the 12 Honorees for the 2015 Bakken Invitation Award you really understand what it means. Each of these extraordinary individuals shows how the will of the human spirit to overcome a life-changing medical challenge and then take control of “their second life” made possible by a medical device.


Bakken

A global program launched in 2013, the Bakken Invitational was named for Medtronic co-founder, Earl Bakken, who developed the first external, battery-powered, wearable pacemaker, an invention that has saved millions of lives and shaped the modern medical device industry. 

Medtronic

It’s from incredibly giving individuals like the Bakken honorees, that people just like our family have touched from the giving spirit of others. From the college scholarships I received to get me through college or my son’s wish to go to Disney World by an organization that grants wishes for children with life-threatening conditions, our lives have forever been changed for the better because gave. 

Disney

Photo credit: TR Photography

Have you been given an extra life and are living with a medical device or using medical technology?

Share it here and Medtronic Foundation will donate $10 to Project HOPE to help ensure that medical technology is available in underserved communities around the world.

One of the honoree’s stories that really touched me was that of Tanya Hall. Like my son, Tanya was born with a hole in her heart and a heart murmur. At 9 she had open heart surgery and then at 21, she was diagnosed with a number of heart arrhythmias requiring her to get a pacemaker. While she may have had the medical support she needed, she found herself frustrated with the lack of cardiac patient support groups in Australia and at a loss for how she would spend the rest of her life, so she founded hearts4heart. 

Medtronic-Story

Knowing first-hand the need for finding support for heart issues when my son was born, the story was even more touching as she also was the patient. So to carry on the work of educating, creating awareness of heart diseases, and to continue to provide support to others, goes to show the huge measure of her character and the real size of Tanya’s heart. 

[Tweet “”Life isn’t about what you got, but what you gave.” @mamachallenge #LiveOnGiveOn AD “]

looking at her story, any of the other honoree’s stories or even mine, it’s clear that medical technology can dramatically improve the life of one person. The Bakken Invitation Award Honorees demonstrate that it can have social impact that reaches beyond just that person.

Are you ready to make a difference? 

Which Bakken honoree inspires you?

Share your choice by commenting below and you could win a $100 VISA gift card to do some good in your community. (Valid only for U.S. citizens, 18 years and older. Winner will be selected on March 18, 2016.)

For continued inspiration connect with Medtronic Foundation on Twitter and the Bakken Invitational on Facebook.

 

Paying for College with the Hispanic Scholarship Fund

By 34 Comments

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #HSFstories #cbias #CollectiveBias

How are you paying for college? The magic word for every parent is scholarship. But do you know of all the opportunities that are available for your child? The Hispanic Scholarship Fund may be the answer.

My proudest moment in high school was the day that I crossed the stage to accept a scholarship to aid me in going to college. I couldn’t have been happier; not just to be recognized for all my hard work, but to know that I was going to be able to actually go to college.


The next two proudest moments was when I heard my name called two more times to cross the stage again that day.
Class99

While I couldn’t have gone to school without those monetary gifts, it still wasn’t enough to cover my first degree and certainly not my second. So, like many other thousands of students, I worked hard, took out loans, and will be paying back for my education for many years to come.

Oh lucky me. But to be honest, it’s kinda my own fault.

Yep. I didn’t take advantage of scholarship dollars like the Hispanic Scholarship Fund, that are set aside for supporting and advancing Hispanic students.

And the reason was I didn’t really think I could. I mean I am “Hispanic” (although back in the day we didn’t have all the different designations), but somehow I didn’t feel like I was Mexican enough.

Graduation-photo

That’s right, Mexican enough. I didn’t speak Spanish. I didn’t celebrate Mexican holidays. I didn’t even have a name that sounded Mexican (at least the name I used.)

So I didn’t apply and began to work really hard at several part time jobs. At one time I held 4 different jobs, ironically working for the Office of Equity of Diversity and later moving to the Vice President of Student Affairs and Diversity for the Student  Government Association. At that time I was the “figurehead” for women, Hispanics and other cultures on campus and realized it was “OK” to be who I was – and have worked since then and through two degrees to embrace my culture for myself and for my children.

Autumn Graduation

After my experience, I knew I wanted things to be different for my kids. I wanted them to have opportunities and also feel like it was ok to be them. And also to be exposed to the Spanish culture including being proficient in Spanish through participating in excellent bilingual education.

Jackson Kinder Graduation2

That’s why I feel so strongly about educating others about what opportunities are available, especially scholarships the Hispanic Scholarship Fund. And now that Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc. is now an official partner, contributing $200,000 towards scholarships for the organization, this scholarship fund will be able to help even more Hispanic students make their future possible. Since 1975, the nation’s largest not-for-profit organization supporting Hispanic American higher education, the Hispanic Scholarship Fund has awarded over $470 million in scholarships and provides a range of ancillary programs for students, HSF Scholars, Alumni, and parents. 

Do you know a Hispanic child that needs help with their higher education? Are you a Hispanic parent or child that would benefit from additional support for their college education and to achieve their dreams?

Then apply now until the end of March to the Hispanic Scholarship Fund.

HSF-Logo

 

Healthy Junk Food Recipes

By 15 Comments

Junk food is good…but it’s not good for you. But with these healthy junk food recipes, you can enjoy your favorites without all the fuss. 

Doughnuts. Ding Dongs. Doritos.

They taste good, but face it, they don’t do anything for your waistline or your kid’s either. They are full of sugars, processed foods, and a whole lotta stuff that you can’t pronounce, much less know what it is. 

And while every once in a while a dive into a big bag of chips does seem like it’s going to make you feel better; rest assured it won’t. But we know when you have an itch for something, sometimes you have to scratch it. And when the kids want it, it’s hard to always say no. However, with these tricks and tips we shared on EyeOpener TV, we’re taking the junk out of your junk food for healthy recipes you can enjoy anytime you want  – and you don’t have to feel bad when you eat it either. 


Healthy Donuts

These donuts may not be the healthiest, they are just better for you than what you’ll find at the bakery.  And with only TWO ingredients, this recipe also makes it easy to make too.  All you need is to combine a box of spice cake mix (you can use others, but this is my favorite) and a large can of pumpkin puree; then pour it into a greased donut pan (affiliate) this is the one I used for the TV segment). Cook ’em up and then if you want, add a little glazed icing or powdered sugar. If you need a step-by-step, here’s one with a breakdown…but it’s not rocket science. But it is good. 

Healthy Cheese Crackers

My daughter has probably eaten 100 lbs of those gold-colored cheese crackers – and that was just last week. So when we found out she was allergic to gluten, we had to stop her habit in her tracks. So off to the races we went to uncover the perfect cheese cracker recipe. The best one we found is this recipe using only five ingredients  and replacing the flour for a gluten-free flour alternative. The hardest thing about this is finding a goldfish-shaped cookie cutter (affiliate.)

goldfish

 

Healthy Gummies

I can take down a bag of gummy bears like no-one’s business. I knew there had to be a way to make a healthier version, but unfortunately, I’m still trying to find the perfect way. While we continue to make the perfect gummy, we did uncover a version that can do in a pinch. The only problem is that they have to be refrigerated, so there’s no putting these in your pocket Ferris Bueller style to share with your bestie on the bus. But we’re still working on that. Until then, you have this recipe to do the job from meatified. (And it only has 4 ingredients!)

gummy

Healthy Chocolate Truffles 

When we share this recipe we love to describe the chocolately moment you experience when you bite into these healthy chocolate truffles the first time. THEN we tell them we use avocado to make these rich tasting as well as full of those avocado-riffic nutrients, vitamins and of course, Omega 3s. While people love avocado and people love chocolate, but the idea of them together isn’t always loved. But one bite of these, you’ll change your mind. Too bad you won’t just eat one bite. 

Avocado-Cappuccino-Truffles

Healthy Muffins 

There are plenty of muffin recipes out there that are super healthy; using alternative flours, vegetables, etc. Well, most the time we don’t have time for all that. We’re glad when there’s 15 minutes in the morning to even put breakfast together – much less a healthy one that your kids will eat. But for our healthy muffin recipe, just combine a bag of muffin mix (affiliate) along with one pouch of Gogo squeeZ (or approximately 1/2 cup of applesauce) along with 1/4 cup of milk. Cook as directed and serve. It’s that easy to add a 2/3 serving of fruit to the muffin without negotiating with your kids AND they’re super moist! 

Healthy Kool-Aid

Growing up I LOVED Kool-Aid. Heck, I still do. But now I know when you put a cup of sugar in anything it’s gonna be good, but all that sugar isn’t doing me any favors. And it’s really not doing your kids any favors either! So to make your own Kool-Aid with none of the “stuff” that’s not so good for kids. Using the magic formula of 4: steep 4 bags of herbal tea like this one in 4 cups of hot water.  After 15 minutes of steeping the bags, remove them and 4 cups of cold water. Last add 4 drops of Stevia  for just the sweet taste you need to remind you of your own fruit punch days. 

 

 

Don’t miss these comfort foods with a healthy (AND GLUTEN FREE) twist! 

Gluten-Free-Oven-Fried-Chicken

 

Gluten-Free-Mac-N-Cheese

 

New Way To Keep Your Kids From Getting Sick

By 6 Comments

SponsoredPostDisclaimer

Wanna know the best way to keep your kids from getting sick? It’s washing their hands! But with this new mom-created invention, hands are 3X cleaner keeping you and your family healthier. 

Kids are dirty. Ask any parent how often they get sick now that they have kids. They’ll tell you – once it gets in the house, everyone’s got it. 


The nose is running, there’s coughing and sneezing…It’s all over their hands and then all over you. It’s gross. And while none of us like to see our kiddos ill, it’s worse when it comes knocking on your immune system. 

Sick-Kid-Crying

However, no matter how powerful the bug or virus that takes over your house, doctors will still tell you the best, easiest and cheapest way to keep from getting sick is…to wash your hands.

Yep, genius right? You were ready for me to tell you some huge CIA-level secret, right? 

Well, the CIA isnt’ involved, but a lot of folks are thanks to a just launched kickstarter campaign for SCRUB BUGS. 

Scrub Bug -Child Using

These cute little critters are a parent’s answer to making sure kids don’t just “wash their hands,” but wash them 3X better, ensuring those germs are actually washed away. 

Mom Kelly Stuart  connected the dots one day watching her kids brush their teeth and thinking about how surgeons use brushes to wash their hands. She realized that if kids could use a brush, like the surgeons, they too would have cleaner hands. And the idea behind Scrub Bugs was born. 

Scrubby-Bugs

Using Scrub Bugs will help kids: 

  • Clean hands 3X better than normal handwashing
  • Make washing hands fun 
  • Create better personal hygiene skills
  • Make it harder to spread germs – making you and them healthier

Real life in-use tests prove that kids wash their hands more often, with more pressure, and for longer with Scrub Bugs.

Scrub-Bugs

So while you can’t quite get your hands on this little tool now (production starts in May), you’ll want to make sure to keep up with this Kickstarter campaign!

What’s your best tip for keeping kids from getting sick? Would you get a Scrub Bug? 

Want more tips on your kid’s health? 

Mend at Home App

 

Being-Sick-Blows-Kit

5 Awesome Ways to Celebrate the NEW LEGO Movie 4D A New Adventure

By Leave a Comment

It’s BAAAACK and even more AWESOME, The LEGO® Movie™ 4D A New Adventure at the LEGOLAND Discovery Center and we have your sneak peek plus 5 AWESOME ways to celebrate!

The “other movie” with the most memorable and catchy soundtrack, The LEGO Movie gives us the next chapter in the story, The LEGO Movie 4D A New Adventure, on Feb. 27. 

The LEGO Movie 4D A New Adventure Hi-Res


This short-movie sequel picks up after where the blockbuster movie leaves off, when Emmet, Wyldstyle, Unikitty, MetalBeard and Benny reunite at the invitation of a shady new character, Risky Business, who plans to open a curious theme park bearing a suspicious resemblance to LEGOLAND®.  Eager movie watchers will be wowed with “4D” effects such as wind, water, fog and more bringing the action bursting off the screen and into the audience.

Of course, my two kiddos couldn’t be more excited to see this movie at our LEGOLAND Discovery Center at Grapevine Mills (and also unveiling at other LEGOLAND® theme parks and LEGOLAND® Discovery Centers across the U.S.) And as huge LEGO fans, we have a few ways to celebrate until the film rolls out on Feb. 27. 

Five Awesome Ways to Celebrate the New LEGO Movie 4D 

  1. Get caught up on the adventure by watching the first one again! 
  2. Sign up to receive a BRICK SWAG Membership for a monthly subscription of LEGO bricks, shirt, and more! 
  3. Create a LEGO-themed lunch with this adorable LEGO brick lunchbox (my son LOVES his and matching thermos.) 
  4. Get the kids ready for the movie with LEGO attire
  5. Enter this giveaway for your own family four-pack of tickets 

But that’s not all! upcoming for LEGO fans are three more feature films:  The as-yet untitled LEGO BatmanTM opens on February 10, 2017; “NINJAGO,” on September 22, 2017; and “The LEGO Movie Sequel,” on May 18, 2018.

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Dallas/Fort Worth
Admission includes short movie playing several times daily
3000 Grapevine Mills Parkway
Grapevine, Texas 76051
877.818.1677
website

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sneak Peek: Hot Toys for Tots 2016

By 19 Comments

Toys just keep getting better and better! Even for the littles! We’re sharing Hot Toys for Tots as found at the North American International Toy Fair 2016! 

Oh, boy – we’re talking toys! This week I headed over to EyeOpenerTV to share some of the coolest toys you’ll be buying for birthdays, showers, and even Christmas! 


HABA USA Little Friends Bendy Dolls and Accessories // Ages 3+

  • 4 inch tall “bendy dolls” are made from flexible soft plastic, with metal wires inside which allow for them to be posable.
  • Compatible with all HABA dollhouse furniture as well as the Villa sunshine, dream-house and Dollhouse Annex (shown here).

 InRoad Toys PlayTape // Ages 3+

  • A Toy of the Year Finalist, PlayTape sticks to any flat surface and is easy to tear, reposition, and peel up without any residue.
  • NEW Hot Wheels PlayTape debuted at Toy Fair this year and will be available to consumers this summer!
  • Available in different colors and road styles

Yookidoo Musical Duck Race // For ages 6 month+

  • Finalist for the International Toys Award in Nuremburg
  • Battery operated musical duck water race & fountain
  • Cheerful music plays along with the activities with mute button – celebrating bath time and reducing water anxiety.
  • Leaf lever activates 9 random sound & water effects
  • Develops hand-eye coordination, cause and effect, and teaches colors and counting

SoapSox // Birth

  • Snuggle, cuddle, and play together all day, when it’s time for bath, bring them with you
  • Can help ease bath time anxiety/fears
  • The patented soap pocket transforms lovable SoapSox® into sudsy wash cloth
  • Debuted at Toy Fair New Line of Disney Baby Bath Toys Including Characters From Upcoming Summer 2016 Blockbuster Finding Dory

Lassig Casual Twin Bag // This one is for MOM and DAD! 

  • Perfect bag for parent of twins, multiple children or just looking for a roomier day-today bag option!
  • Main zipper pocket features plenty of space to hold diapers, extra clothing, toys and their favorite stuffed animals
  • Variety of zipper pockets and compartments to keep loose items organized and easily accessible.
  • Also included is an over-sized insulated bottle holder and over-sized, water-repellent changing mat,
  • Two external pockets located on each end of the bag can be used for water bottles, coffee mugs
  • Made of durable polyester and include carrying handles, shoulder strap and stroller hooks for added versatility. There is also an additional shoulder strap that can be used as a back pack strap.
  • Available in Zig Zag Black and White (shown) or Striped Zig Zag Navy

And because we love our parents, we’re giving away the LASSIG CASUAL TWIN DIAPER BAG! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Related articles across the web

Why Children’s Consignment Sales Are a Must-Do

By 21 Comments

SponsoredPostDisclaimer

Keeping your kids clothed, toyed, and prepped for each milestone is hard (on your schedule and your wallet.) Here’s 10 reasons why Children’s Consignment Sales are a parent’s best friend. 

When I was a new mom, I was overwhelmed with the NEED and WANT to purchase clothes for my son. Between getting the right size (for that week) and then having something adorable to show him off in (also that week), I felt I was constantly at the store. I was buying clothes ALL the time. And let’s not even count how much money I was spending. Only to find three weeks later, we were in another size, I found something cuter I wanted, or he had spit all over it. (Sad mama.) 


 Clothes-Resign

Skip ahead two years – I heard from a friend about a huge consignment sale (like the largest in Texas) called Just Between Friends Fort Worth that moms were VOLUNTEERING to work at because the event was that good you wanted to get in early. However, it was enough to pique my interest, so off I went to check it out. 

What I found was the motherland for kid-everything. While I didn’t know I needed to bring these must-haves since it was my first time, I did figure out that this was the secret of how I could now afford more time and less money on kids’ clothes (and a whole lot) more. Now I never miss a JBF sale – ever and once you go, you won’t either. 

10 Reasons Why Children’s Consignment Sales are a Must-do for Parents

1. You’ll find items that are mom-tested, mom-approved.
The process to have clothes allowed to be at JBF is strict, so just because these clothes have been worn by other kids, don’t worry – they are taken care of to the highest degree. Basically, this is good stuff! And one extra big tip: Since parents get to put their consigned outfits in the aisle, they often place them together in one size. So I’ve often found if I find a cute outfit for my daughter, I’ll find someone has the same style as me already grouped together. (Some consignors even put a bow or ribbon on them so you’ll know to look for them.

2. JBF is made for new parents, seasoned parents and even grandparents. 
If you have never been to JBF, no worries – we’ve you covered. First if you’re expecting or are a grandparent, you should check out the website to get free admission (but do it quick before the deadline!) Next, you should definitely plan to go early so you can find the best of the best ready for you to find (believe me, there is a reason that parents volunteer for the early pass. Last, make sure to take a look at our “Tips to Your First JBF.”

{COUPON ALERT}JBF Spring 2016 Web Coupon

2. At flat-bottom prices, you can afford to get 10 outfits (or more) for the price of one brand new at the store. 
No more trying to find a coupon or save up for a sale. Just walk in and be ready to save with cheap prices that are easy on the budget. (At the end of the sale, they even put the rest of the items on 50% off already low prices.) 

3. You can think seasons in advance.  
Is your kid in between sizes or do you want to get jeans that’ll last through the school year (growing boys are the worst?) You can affort to buy more than a season at a time at JBF. (If you really want to stretch your dollar, bring this checklist with you.) 

rp_JBFDallas.jpg

4. Toys, clothes, and furniture that are in stores now can be found at the sale. 
It never ceases to amaze me that I’ll walk through a sale and find the same things you were looking at buying full price at the store. For instance, looking for a table and chairs to add to the kids’ playroom? Well wood never goes out of style and unless you work at Pottery Barn, you probably can’t figure out the difference between last season’s brown table and this season’s. And it’ll be much, much cheaper.

5. Consignment sales are safer than Craigslist, online apps, and garage sales. 
This is a biggy with me. I’ve done them all and have found some great deals. But not without strategizing where the safest place to meet the seller or the time it takes to drive around a neighborhood and go through piles of stuff that definitely hasn’t gone through any quality control process. Never again, no matter how great the deal!

6. You can buy for Easter, Halloween, Christmas and more. 
One of the coolest things about JBF is finding already put together Easter baskets in the spring and Halloween bags for super low prices. And these aren’t like baskets with crappy chocolate. These are bags with toys and things that the kids would love already tied up and ready to give. Why wouldn’t you buy these?

rp_JBF.jpg

7. Bring the big bag. 
The parents that come here are prepped and ready to shop. Parents work together on how to get the best deals, who volunteers, who shops and even what type of bag, basket, roller suitcase, they are going to use to bring it all home. For those of you that wonder how you’re going to load up the mega deals you think you might find like on furniture, there’s normally a few dads working the event to help you load up your awesome score. So bring the bag and get ready to save.

8. Recycle and Re-Earn. 
JBF doesn’t just help you save money, they can help you earn it, too. Consider being a consignor and you you can earn money by selling the clothes back after your child is done. 

JBF-Consignment

9. Left over clothes that you consign are donated to charity. 
If you consign clothes and they don’t sell, you have to options – either to pick them up and then give them to someone else who needs them or have JBF donate them to charity. This is probably where you were going to take them anyways, so why wouldn’t you start first to earn a little money, too?

10. Now you can afford to spend more on other things like events, experiences and things that you can’t find here.
Not everything can be purchased on a discount. So if there’s something you’ve wanted to buy, have, or do with the kids, if you save money on things like toys and clothes, you have more to spend on going to do fun things like dinner night out or even save up for that trip to Disney. 

Pin This!

Visit Mama Challenge's profile on Pinterest.

Pictures Say a 1000 Words

Follow Along!