Gift Guide: Hot Holiday Toys 2020

November 25, 2020 By Mallory Jones 34 Comments

Working overtime to help Santa get the right gifts under the tree? This list is kid-tested and kid-approved to get you all the love. Here’s our guide to Hot Holiday Toys 2020.

2020 has been a doozy and we all deserve something really good under the tree…especially the kids. So I’ve enlisted the help of my favorite “two elves” to help discover the best toys for everyone on your holiday list.

That’s right – how else do you think my research panel really works? By asking the pros (i.e. the kids) to let me know their thoughts (and put it together) that’s how I REALLY find out how cool (or not so cool) the new toys each year will be.

And this year we’ve been hard at work and we want to make it fun for everyone, so we’re giving it away! YES GIVEAWAY TIME.

MAMACHALLENGE TIP:

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See below for our Guide to Hot Holiday Toys 2020!

For Littles

Disney Juniors E-I-Oh! Mickey Feature Plush

Who doesn’t love Mickey Mouse! Sing and dance along with Disney Juniors E-I-Oh! Mickey Feature Plush to the “Old McDonald” song, the Chicken Dance and“What Animal Sound is That?” He’s snuggly and soft and will keep them busy for hours.

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Blue’s Clues Dance-Along and You

Our toys aren’t just something to do – they’re also about being our friend. Again a toy targeted for the littles, but my kids have had just as much fun with Blue’s Clues Dance-Along and You as you dance and sing. And the guitar acts as the remote!

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Pinkfong Baby Shark Official – Baby Shark Dancing DJ – Wowwee

This one doesn’t need an introduction – it’s Pinkfong Baby Shark Official – Baby Shark Dancing DJ! Don’t hate me because you’ll be singing this later but Baby Shark does much more like teach letters, counting, and when you dance, it detects and will start dancing with you. And don’t worry, it sings more than that song, too!

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Crayola Colors of the World Crayons

This may be my favorite item and it’s just a few dollars! Crayola Colors of the World Crayons is really showing its true colors with its COLORS OF THE WORLD CRAYONS. Kids can actually reach into the box of newly formed 24 and find colors that represent them and the people around them! Even the names of the colors are reflective of them or blend together to find their perfect shade.

Basic Fun Care Bears

And I don’t know if this toy is for them or for me, but New 2020 Carebears ARE BACK! Yes, and more than ever, they’re reminding us to be positive, to share, and to care, right? So those of us that grew up in the 80s this was THE toy! Plus while kids are at home, this is a great gift to give them comfort and share a hug when you can’t always give the hug to the person you want! So this is a great grandparents gift!

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Crayola Glitter Dots Keychain Craft Set

Crayola also has done a great job keeping kids busy! So this is Squish the Crayola Glitter Dots Keychain Craft Set. This is another great stocking stuffer or something they can make now and give to their friends and neighbors by leaving it at the door! You just squish the dots into the molds to create one-of-a-kind charms in a sweet treat theme!

For Bigger Kids

VTECH Kidzoom Creator Cam

If there was a hot gift this season, this is it to me. Designed for ages 5, I’ve had fun playing with this one. This is the VTECH Kidizoom Creator Cam and it’s so cool I want one. This isn’t just a camera – it’s a tripod/selfie stick, microphone, video tools, a green screen and everything you need to be a “digital creator.” And what I love as a parent is they don’t need your iPad or smartphone to make it work!

Crayola Marker Maker Set

With so much time at home, art projects and being able to express themselves through art has had so many benefits for kids. So here’s a gift they can use to create those beautiful works of art by making their own markers! Create your own custom colors with the Crayola Marker Maker machine, 16 Makeable Markers, Customizable Marker Labels, Color Mixing Guide, Instruction Sheet, and Assorted Inks.

Crayola Scribble Scrubbie Pets Scrub Tub Animal Playset

And the fun with colors doesn’t stop there either! Crayola has done a remarkable job recreating fun ways for kids to have fun like with this is a Crayola Scribble Scrubbie Pets Scrub Tub Playset. Forget flat color books – they are taking color 3D in a fun playset. Best of all, when you’re done coloring and want to do something new – give ‘em a scrub and start again!

Hatchimals Pixies Riders

The biggest thing in toys last season was the “surprise” with toys like Hatchimals Pixies Riders and LOL Dolls as gifts within a gift. And this Christmas you’ll find this idea in so many gifts. We all remember the Hatchimals

Hasbro Star Wars The Child Animatronic Edition

We all want to call this Baby Yoda, but this is THE ONE and this is the one they’ll definitely want with this Star Wars The Child Animatronic toy. Touching the top of his head activates over 25 sound and motion combinations, including happy and excited sounds, giggles, babbles, and more, all while the figure’s head moves up and down. Plus it’s too cute!

Pre-teens & Teens

Electric Party Pop Scooter

The big kids always seem to be the hardest to buy for. But with us all at home more, I’m all about getting them to be more active! Kids don’t really want bikes anymore, the hot gift is the Electric Party Pop Scooter! And these cooters are a party on their own!

This is a foot activated powered electric scooter that goes up to 7.5 mph (12 km/h) for up to 30 minutes of continuous ride time while you roll with these multi-color LED lights.

Black Label from Razor E90

And for the even bigger kids, this scooter has all the power in their hands! The Razor Black Label E90 electric scooter that features a hand operated front brake in addition to the rear-fender brake, creating a dual-braking system for better control. Plus with a higher weight limit, this is a good one for those tweens and teens.

Nintendo Ring Fit Adventure

And last but not least, this is one game I love recommending! I don’t know what we would’ve done without the Nintendo Ring Fit! We have to keep the kids moving and with their virtual school this is a fun way to make everyone happy. It’ll make them squat, lounge, and move along with keeping count of calories. This is also one you can do together!

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Young Scientist Plasma Globe

Kids at home means we’re all taking on teaching too. Young Scientist Plasma Globe is making science fun by showing the power of electricity by being activated by touch and sound! You might remember something like this in the early 90s – and I always wanted one!

Snapstyle Mask Maker

Of course we’ve all been in mask but we can let kids have fun with it with this SnapStyle Printable Mask maker from If you can take a picture of it, you can make a mask of it. Kids can print their own mask that matches their clothing or show their creativity – and yes these are WHO compliant mask!

Simple Scrapbooking for the Real Parents {CRICUT MAKER GIVEAWAY}

April 28, 2020 By Autumn Rose Reo 140 Comments

Are you storing your kid’s sweet little drawings causing chaos? Here’s our guide for Simple Scrapbooking for Real Parents.

Lately you may have found yourself making more crafts than normal or trying to organize all those boxes, envelopes and more of the kids’ photos, momentos, etc.?

Yes, we all are. Or at least trying.

Even with all this “extra time,” that doesn’t mean that you want to spend all of it meticulous;y creating some beautiful scrapbook only to hate the final result? Don’t worry where there’s a will, there’s a way – and our way is much easier, practical and efficient than those top-line scrapbooks made by those perfect Pinterest mamas (that’s not us, either.)

Guide for Simple Scrapbooking for Real Parents

Paper

I have tons of random paper all over our house and this is the best place to use it! There’s no rule to making things match! So get creative and use what you have, even make some of the memories part of the process like maps, menus, etc. or for just almost $6 order a collection of scrapbook papers with all different designs and colors to easily put in your plastic sleeves.

Got nothing on hand? Then let canva the work for you. I’m not sure what I did before this super easy graphics maker and I’m so glad I don’t have to. The online transforms you into a marketing / graphics genius with easy scrapbooking templates like these. You can either print them out to add your photos or scan/download your photos and make your entire sheet in canva.

Stuck on Fun

Oh man, this is where things get sticky! Sticky dots, photo corners and definitely this amazing adhesive tape makes my world work. No mess and no stress – all of these make it easier to make your scrapbook look good without the work.

Envelopes

Have a few envelopes laying around? Put them to work. Many times we’ve collected small momentos like tickets, post its, maybe even a piece of hair. An envelope makes for a cute way to make it attractive and easy to put in the scrapbook. The name of the game is easy, right?

Putting it Together

You don’t even have to use a “photo album” or “scrapbook” when making your book. Consider using a favorite book or magazine to be the binding for your scrapbook. I love using the instax mini camera from FujiFilm to take photos for parties. And now’s an even better time to use them and record some of the memories you’re making at home right now.

Don’t Forget to Document THIS

Speaking of now, you really do need to find a way to record your family’s experiences through the Corona-19 pandemic. While I am not thrilled to record our latest events as they don’t exactly seem to be happy times, you can’t debate that these are going to be times that will be part of your child’s story. So instead record the experience with a time capsule. Start taking photos with that the instax and Modern Mom Life has some cool printables to make yours.

MAKE A TIME CAPSULE

Still don’t want to make one with even less creative effort? Or want to multi-task and make a scrapbook that can be a gift to someone miles away?

Here are other ways to scrapbook without scrapbooking.

mixbook.com

It’s a one-stop shop to make your own scrapbook with mixbook. Even the printed version is formatted to lay flat and can be done on the computer and the mobile phone! Do all the photos, text, theme, printing, and even delivery. And with more than first order here.

Get up to 50% off + 10% off everything with code CHERISH for a limited time.)

shutterfly

I’m pretty sure I’ve made a ton of these for Mother’s Day and Christmas gifts! You do it all in shutterfly – the photos, the format, the colors, the theme – you name it! And then you order it to be delivered in a hard bound book! Right now get a free personalized scrapbook or up to 50% off orders for a limited time with free shipping plus 1% back using Rakuten when you shop (it’s free money.)

Ready to do some serious Scrapbooking?

The answer to all things creative nowadays seems to be done with the help of the Cricut! The ultimate cutting machine gives you the freedom to make everything from paper crafts, iron ons, and vinyl decals to sewing projects, leather crafts, and more!

The ultimate in professional-level cutting performance and versatility
Cuts 300+ materials, from the most delicate fabric and paper to matboard and leather
Rotary Blade for cutting virtually any fabric without backer

And yes, I’m just figuring out how this Cricut works! (I will not admit how long I’ve had mine and how long it’s taken me to get this far!) But I want to share my new found love with you! So just in time for Mother’s Day, one lucky reader will win their own CRICUT MAKER!

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10 Must-Have Nintendo Switch Games to Escape Quarantine {Animal Crossing Giveaway}

April 19, 2020 By Autumn Rose Reo 22 Comments

Ready to get away? While you can’t open the door, you can get away virtually! Here are 10 Must-Have Nintendo Switch Games to Escape Quarantine.

Thank you to Nintendo for this amazing reminder and giveaway to make this getaway possible.

Oh, the irony – we’re all ready to get away more than ever, but we’re all lawfully committed to staying indoors and close to home. I know I have had more than one dream about white sandy beaches with my feet in the sand sipping a margarita lately. While the only surfing we can do is on the couch for a bit, Nintendo has made it a little bit easier to travel via its SWITCH console.

Need proof it works? Then check out the sales of its newest release, Animal Crossing: New Horizons. People are using it for weddings, dates, as well as just creating their own tropical paradise. But that’s not the only game that will relieve the tension. Best of all, you can download these at home and be ready to go in no time, completely contactless and without delivery woes.

Now before you say, hey aren’t you normally all about limiting device time? Well these are extraordinary times and maybe it’s not the kids that needs the getaway, right? And besides, some of these are really fun (I know from experience.) And the ones I haven’t played – I trust my 11 year old that they rock (because he says so.)

Ok – we aren’t saying this is a replacement for a trip, but if you need to get away, there is a way!

10 Must-Have Nintendo Switch Games to Escape Quarantine

1. Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Escape to an island and make it your paradise! Or explore a city and enjoy the moment. Not only can you go somewhere, but with Animal Crossing: New Horizons you can do some things a few weeks ago that you might do happily now and in a non-rushed state like drink coffee in your favorite coffee shop (after you create it, of course.) Best of all you can invite people to do it with you in your own virtual world.

(See below to see how you can enter to win your own Animal Crossing: new Horizons.)

2. Overcooked 2

Ready to throw down Chopped-style without all the mess? It’s time to get Overcooked 2! Travel the land cooking up a range of new recipes that are sure to cater to any tastes, including sushi, cakes, burgers and pizzas as you remote play with others! Food and travel, sign me up! (Plus this one is on sale right now!)

3. Luigi’s Mansion

Luigi has long been exploring worlds with his other half, but this time he takes off on his own adventure and you’re in for the fun with Luigi’s Mansion! Head to a beautiful mansion and things don’t exactly go as expected with ghosts, ghouls and more surprises. Hey it may be a haunted mansion, but check out that pool! Go with Party mode and you and the whole family can explore safely from your sofas.

4. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

Is it obvious that we’re huge Super Mario Bros. fans over here? No doubt it may stem from my retro-love from my own childhood. Whatever it is, this is one thing we’ve handed down. But that’s not all who’ll you’ll see in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. Pacman, Sonic the Hedgehog, Megaman and so many more, you can kick it old-school alone, with family or with friends online challenging each other or storymode.

5. Just Dance 2020

This game has also taken the place of P.E. for my kids and family entertainment. Just Dance 2020 is a workout while you dance party – and now with the free subscription for April, you can dance for hours to favorite songs not just to 2020, but also all the volumes before it. Challenge me anytime for Backstreet Boys – I’ll kick you into 2021.

6. Untitled Goose Game

Cue the “it’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood…” and then a crazy goose (you) comes to town. That’s the premise of this game that is actually called “Untitled Goose Game.“ For those of us that are just missing things like just going to town and shopping, this might seem like your game, except you’re the prankster. Need to get out some pent-up anger and frustration to vent, this is really your game.

7. ABZÛ

If you need to really escape from the world, it’s time to go below into the sea and find nature’s wonders without leaving your home. The animation in ABZÛ is beautiful with vibrant, colorful ocean world bursting with color underwater adventure that evokes the dream of diving. Swim in the water, interact with specifies under the water including fish.

8. Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker

You may be trekking for treasure as a toad(stool), but this is one fun fungi in Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker. Based on new kingdoms in the Super Mario Odyssey game, you can transport through islands, desserts and my personal favorite, what looks like NYC. Right now a walk through Times Square does sound like an adventure I’m down for – even if I’m a mushroom.

9. Stardew Valley

Own a small plot of land and expand it to huge proportions are the goal of Stardew Valley. Are you the type that has been wanting to start tilling your own farm or orchard? Stardew Valley gives you the ability to raise animals, craft useful machines, fish and more. Plus you’re helping to make a community and can reap the fruits of your virtual labor.) And yes, you can play this one together with the multiplayer update.

10. Minecraft

Like Animal Crossing, Minecraft has long been the leader in being able to create basically anything you want to create. My son has been a fan of this one and recent stories have shared there are students working together online to recreate their schools. Kids miss school almost as much as we parents do. Considering the number of classes I’ve seen on this one,

READY FOR A GETAWAY?

Enter to win a copy of Animal Crossing: New Horizons Nintendo Switch!

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Ultimate Tailgating Tips

September 6, 2019 By Autumn Rose Reo 7 Comments

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Girlfriend’s Guide to Grilling a Steak

June 22, 2019 By Autumn Rose Reo 68 Comments

Love the idea of grilling, but think it’s too complicated? We’re sharing the basics you need to get your grill on with our Girlfriend’s Guide to Grilling a Steak!

Thank you to Market Street for helping all of us girls (and guys) get our grill on with this sponsored post.

Isn’t it funny that so many mamas take on the world (literally) every day, but when it comes to grilling think it’s too hard or should be left to the guys?

Just answer me this: Do you like the idea of biting into a juicy, sizzling steak? Do you like to entertain? Want to make a special meal for your special someone? Then you need to know how to grill a steak.

…But don’t worry, it’s not near as hard as you think it is. Now don’t get me wrong, grilling is just as much an art and a science as it is skill. I have the utmost for those that have mastered it, but we don’t have to be the best to have a really good steak dinner. And before you get any further down, here’s your real disclaimer: Grilling is subjective and everyone does it different.

However, we’re gonna give you the absolute basics to get your first steak from purchase to plate without much work, hassle, or slaving over a grill for hours. (Besides, who has time for that!)

Girlfriend’s Guide to Grilling a Steak

1) It’s all in the meat.

No matter what marinade you use, what you cook it on, or what you pair with it, you need to pick a great piece of steak. I honestly didn’t have a clue except that there was steak and there was hamburger meat. So off to Market Street I went to figure it all out when the butcher came out to help me (he must have seen the scare in my eyes!) He explained the cuts of meat so I knew what I was looking at and how best to cook it.

There are three basic classes you should know when it comes to your beef: Prime (best), Choice (better) and Select (good.)

When it comes to flavor, it’s all in the marbling or the little white flecks in beef – is key to flavor. The higher the amount of marbling, the higher the quality of beef.

When it comes to the meat, Rancher’s Reserve is always a great choice with 100% Angus beef that is juicy, tender and full of flavor.

Now for the fun stuff, the cuts! These four steaks all come from the same general area of the cow – the short loin, tenderloin, and the ribs.

TENDERLOIN // aka filet mignon / Boneless cut from the short loin and sirloin. / Most tender and most expensive cut of steak.

T-BONE // aka Porterhouse / Bone in cross section of the unfilleted short loin with combo of f tenderloin and NY strip. / Great taste but difficult to cook with two different cuts.

NY STRIP // Boneless & sometimes bone-in short loin behind the ribs. / Fine grained texture with some marbling.

RIBEYE // aka Delmonico /Boneless & bone-in cut from the rib cage. / Lots of marbling and fat pockets for the juiciest flavor.

The Ribeye is by far the best choice for new grillers. It’s more tender than the other cuts of beef and has lots of marbling, which means lots of juicy flavor!

When it comes to the cut, you’ll want to aim for 1 1/4 inch – 1 1/2 inch cut.

Don’t see any in the case? Then ask your butcher to assist you! Market Street will cut it to your specifications!

2) Season and Sit it Out.

Alrighty…this is where there are all kinds of opinions on the best way to make your steak taste perfect. What you put on it, how long you let it sit on the steak and how long you choose to put the steak in the fridge or at room temperatures varies as much as there are different opinions on how best to soothe a crying baby. There’s been tons of research, experiments, and lots of hot-headed opinions but for this first-timer’s steak: we’re keeping it basic. You’ll find your own way after you do it for the first time.

Take your steak out of the fridge at least thirty minutes before you plan to cook your steak. Pat your steak with a paper towel.

Add LOTS of kosher salt and fresh ground pepper to both sides (it’s going to seem excessive, but this will add the simple seasoning your steak needs. (Put it in your palm and let it fly!)

Let the steak sit at room temperature for around half an hour.

3) Get your Grill Going.

The biggest question here is: How are you planning to cook this thing!

Gas: By far the easiest way way to grill is on a gas grill. Turn on the tank, turn the burner, ignite, and close the lid for around 10 minutes when the grill hits around 425-450 degrees. Now you’re ready to roll!

Is it time to cook? Hold your hand about about four to six inches above the grill grate, palm down. If you can hold it one to three seconds before you need to pull your hand away, you’re at high heat.

Charcoal: Yes, you’re going to have to light it up! Starting with a clean grill like this one, lay your self-starting charcoal (it has lighter fluid in the briquettes so you don’t have to deal with it) in a grid pattern. Then light each corner and let it go! Close the grill and either using a thermometer or the hand method (see above), wait until the charcoal has lost its flame and beginning to turn gray.

Pan-fry: It never seems to fail that you make plans to grill and Mother Nature makes another plan! When you’re in a rush or weather doesn’t permit outdoor grilling, go with the iron skillet! Just put it on high and let it go (I also like to add a little oil and butter to the pan for even more flavor!)

Our fourth is sizzlin’…? Ribeye, butter, garlic, rosemary and an iron skillet. All you need for the perfect steak. ? Get your guide to yours on mamachallenge! (FYI Ribeyes are on big sale now at @marketstreet_tx!) #marketstreet #ad #fourthofjuly

A post shared by Autumn?mamachallenge.com ? (@mamachallenge) on Jul 3, 2017 at 6:21am PDT

4) Let’s Get Cooking.

Alright, Alright, Alright! We’ve reached the big show!

If you’re making your steaks on the grill, then you’re going to wait to cook your steaks until they get to your specific level of doneness.

Rare // 120 degrees Medium Rare // 130 degrees Medium // 140 degrees

Medium Well // 150 degrees Well Done // 160 degrees

You can also use the finger test, but this isn’t always accurate as using this.

5) Dinner is Done.

To cut or to sit out, that is the question! One of the biggest controversies (yes, it’s that big of a deal) is whether you need to let your steak sit before serving. While there is all kinds of rationales for why you should and why you shouldn’t, but for me it’s simple: If you wait about 5 minutes after you take it off the heat, there’s less juice therefore less mess. So that’s my win-win.

Now let’s eat!

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Holiday Magic Year Round with Enchanted Fairies and Kidd’s Kidds

December 13, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

At Enchanted Fairies sharing holiday magic isn’t just at Christmas time, but all year round for non-profit Kidd’s Kidds and when your family shares in the fun.

Thanks to Enchanted Fairies and Kidd’s Kidds for sharing this special experience with mamachallenge.com with this sponsored post.

I love the holidays for many reasons, but seeing the good in people like the Angel Tree, hearing stories of paying off layaways or giving anonymously to organizations in need, always warms my heart and brings tears to my eyes. So when Kidd’s Kidds invited to me to go behind-the-scenes to see how one of their biggest donors, Enchanted Fairies, goes beyond Christmas time to give and create once-in-a-lifetime experiences for kids with life-altering/life-threatening conditions, I was there with bells on (and so were the kids!)

I actually had been to Enchanted Fairies when my daughter was younger to have her own Enchanted Fairies portraits done for grandma. So I *thought* I knew what to expect when I was invited to share in a special experience at Enchanted Fairies with two special children from Kidd’s Kidds – Avery (age 9) and Mason (age 7).

Both of these beautiful children (and Mason’s sister) had just a few months ago, had traveled with Kidd’s Kidds trip to Walt Disney World (also funded through donations from Enchanted Fairies) and on this special day would be transported – to a beautiful storybook experience captured forever with a picture!

Watching them be kids and in the middle of the moment – with all the efforts focused on them – was truly magical for me. Especially at the holidays, when often the real purpose of the season…giving and living life the most and the best that you can, isn’t always what is celebrated. But today it was — and at Enchanted Fairies, whether you have are a 9-year old, a little girl with a Brain Tumor and Posterior Fosse Syndrome or a 7-year old with Nephrotic Syndrome, you can feel like you are the center of the universe.

As of today through their tireless efforts, Enchanted Fairies has:

Raised $ 600, 319.14
Photographed 19, 562 families
Fed 403 ,137 people

The photo session in itself is much more than getting the perfect shot. Daniel, the owner, really knows how to allow kids to be themselves and capturing the heart and minds of children. The “oh my” opportunities with special props and little “tricks” allows children to relax and let go, so every picture taken comes out as your favorite. Trying to narrow down your favorites is nearly impossible as each look, expression, and interaction really makes the experience as memorable for you as it is for them.

My daughter is definitely going to love her holiday treat when I bring her back for her grand treatment fulfilling her dream as a mermaid! And if you act fast, there are a few appointments left for the Christmas session.

With just a $25 donation to Kidd’s Kidds, every session at Enchanted Fairies includes access:

Enchanted Wardrobe and accessories
Signature handcrafted props and wings
Storybook set including fairies, mermaids, and right now Christmas!
20 minute photo session
One limited edition 10″ Signature Fairies Portrait

Keep the strength of these children moving as well as the amazing work of Kidd’s Kidds but enjoying your own Enchanted Experience!

Holiday Gifts to Give: Hot Toys 2018

December 6, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo 121 Comments

So many toys, so little time! Here’s your annual holiday helper – THE Holiday Hot Toys for your kids this Christmas. And we’re playing Santa too – with some big giveaways!

‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse;
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there..”

Hey, don’t kid yourself, even Santa had help even if this poem doesn’t give any credit to the elves.

So consider us your elves and we aren’t looking for any credit either. Here’s your list of hot holiday toys – just in time for you to get them under tree, along with those stockings stuffed. But here at mamachallenge.com have taken it one step further…these gifts are made to make kids play and may even remind you of toys you had growing up. We’ve done some work to find toys that are fun and educate kids while also making them use their imagination. Most of these you won’t see an device needed to make them work or a screen to keep them on for hours. These toys are meant for play, activity, thinking and good ole family time.

Treemendous Ornament Activity

TreeMendous Ornament, Treemendous fun! This patent pending design to let children ages 6 and up to personalize their own ornament. Treemendous is a perfect present because it is an ideal activity to do with grandparents, friends, siblings and parents alike. Boys and Girls alike will embrace the holidays season by making their very own handmade ornament. Sure, to become a family treasure for years to come.

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The Sleepover Party Game

Endless Games sleepover party game break out the sleeping bags and leave the lights on. It’s a sleepover party and wear staying up late! Spin the spinner and attempt to complete one of over 200 act It, work it, or party challenges. Be the human mirror and copy everything another player does! Take part in the “Funny sound competition” and make the most ridiculous noise you can!! Try to lick your own elbow!!! Being silly and having fun is The name of the game at this sleepover, so be prepared to sing, laugh, perform, and make a general fool of yourself! Don’t fall asleep early, or you’ll miss out on earning the most cards and staying up all night!

Road Trip the Family Game

It’s a family game that is really for the whole family! Roadtrip could be played in the car, but you can play it for any great game night. This is a well-made game that has won all the toy awards including the Sterling Fun Award Winner, The Toy Man Seal of Approval, The National Parenting Center Seal of Approval and many more.

Tiki Topple

Welcome to Tiki Island, home to nine colorful carvings all competing to be the top Polynesian Idol! In this fast-paced strategy game, try to maneuver your secret tikis to the top of the line by playing the right combination of action cards. Use a Tiki Up card to move a tiki ahead in line. Tiki Topple sends opponents’ tikis tumbling to the back of the pack. But watch out for the sneaky Tiki Toast cards, which knock your tikis off the board! Score the most points and call yourself the Tiki Master.For 2 – 4 players, ages 10 and up.Contents: 55 cards, 9 custom tiki pieces, 4 playing pawns, 1 game board and instructions.

Baby’s First

One of America’s oldest doll companies and have delighted parents and children for over 102 years with our wonderful dolls. Baby’s First Kisses can be easily cleaned and always ready for play – they are Hypoallergenic and MACHINE WASHABLE! The adorable baby doll kisses pleasantly when her soft tummy is squeezed. Helps children develop large motor skills, while stimulating their senses of sight, sound and touch. Great size for babies 1+, toddlers – easy to hold, carry, squeeze and love. Remove the Kisses mechanism from the smart “sanity” pocket and she is ready for the washing machine!

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Kenya Doll

Kenya Dolls is the oldest and most loved ethnic brand in the toy market celebrating 25 years of growing up proud. Kenya’s roots trace back to Dallas, there are several versions to love, but the stand out of this toy is her authentic hair. Whether curly and short, long and natural, or braided and beaded, Kenya truly represents every black girl’s stylish locks.

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Insect Lore Deluxe Butterfly Garden Gift Set with Live Cup of Caterpillars Habitat

Watching the butterfly life cycle up close is more fun than ever with the Butterfly Garden Gift Set with live cup of caterpillars. Exciting butterfly-themed bonus items make this butterfly-raising kit the perfect gift! feed and observe your very own beautiful butterflies for a few days before releasing them into the wild! the entire transformation takes about three weeks, depending on the temperature and humidity in your area. There is no need to feed your caterpillars; all the nutritious food they require to become beautiful butterflies is included in their cozy cup.

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Project MC Perfume Maker

Project Mc2 is a team of super-smart and seriously cool girls who use their love of science and their spy skills as they go on missions for secret organization, NOV8 (that’s “innovate”!). They’re real girls with real skills ready to take on anything. Watch new episodes of the Project Mc2 original series, only on Netflix!
Adrienne Attoms’ next mission is to use her cosmetic chemistry skills to formulate the perfect look for saving the world. Formulate your own perfumes with Project Mc2 Perfume Maker. Now you can perform this same cool S.T.E.A.M. experiment at home using just household items again and again. Pretty brilliant!

Shifu Orboot

An award-winning educational toy, Orboot is a no-borders globe that connects with the fun and interactive Orboot app. Explore the world with 400+ highlights and 1000+ cool facts across 6 categories – cultures, cuisines, monuments, inventions, animals and maps (national and state boundaries of countries). A STEM toy that sparks the imagination and creativity, Orboot encourages the little ones to explore and discover on their own. It builds knowledge as well as develops linguistic and cognitive abilities in the process.

LEGO® Creator 3-in-1 Treehouse

Enjoy imaginative pirate adventures with this LEGO® Creator 3-in-1 Treehouse Treasures set, featuring a 3-level pirate ship treehouse with a ship deck, ship’s wheel, treasure chest hideaway function, bowsprit with flag and teddy bear, crow’s nest, tire swing and an upper-level den. Pirate accessories include a hat, telescope and 2 swords. This 3in1 model rebuilds into a Pirate Ship or a Skull Cave for more pirating fun, and includes 2 minifigures rigged out for pirate adventures, plus a scary spider figure.

BrickHeadz Luke Skywalker™ and Yoda™

These LEGO® BrickHeadz™ Luke Skywalker™ & Yoda™ construction characters are fun to build using LEGO bricks that recreate all their iconic details, including Luke’s Lightsaber™ and Yoda’s pointy ears and cane. The master and apprentice each stand on a buildable collector’s baseplate for easy display in your home, office or any planet you like. Buildable Luke Skywalker™ & Yoda™ LEGO® BrickHeadz™ construction characters feature decorated eyes and authentic details from the original blockbuster Star Wars: Episode V The Empire Strikes Back movie, including Luke’s Lightsaber™ and Yoda’s pointy ears and cane.

Snap Circuits Bric Structures

Combine SNAP CIRCUITS with ordinary building bricks and make endless combinations of construction and circuitry. With Bric-2-Snap technology, kids can wire up their brick builds with SNAP CIRCUITS lights, sounds, moving parts and 3-D circuits to invent almost anything and make it go! Instead of just building a structure, learn how to build the circuit that makes the lights in a skyscraper illuminate or that makes the gears on a drawbridge move! There’s no limit to what kids can create.

HEXBUG BattleBots Arena Pro

It’s robot fighting time! Modeled after television’s hit series BattleBots, comes the HEXBUG BattleBots Arena Pro. With over 100 possible configurations, BattleBots fans can experience the excitement that comes with engineering your very own fighting robot. This set includes one arena and two customizable Build Your Own BattleBots.

Tudor Games Deluxe Electric Football Game

Set your plays and watch your teams do battle on this 32″ x 16″ SpeedTurf metal vibrating NFL gridiron with the Deluxe Electric Football Game! The PlayAction remote control places the fate of your offense in the palm of your hand, with its on-board variable speed control. Both offensive and defensive players are outfitted with all new Invisibase Cleat technology, sending your players where you want them to go. The all new PlayAction remote control places the fate of your offense in the palm of your hand, with its on-board variable speed control. Offense? Set! Defense? Set! Slow down the play with your PlayAction remote to see your blockers in action as the play develops. Got a man wide open downfield? Gaping hole in the defensive line? Shift into high speed and accelerate your team to victory!

Dynacraft Realtree 24V UTV

Your little one will love zipping around the neighborhood on this Dynacraft Realtree 24 V UTV, which features working headlights and suspension springs for a smooth ride. The dual seats make it easy to bring a friend along, and a built-in rack offers convenient storage space. A working steering wheel and foot pedal allow realistic use, and an MP3 input makes it easy to enjoy songs and music during the ride.

READY TO WIN?

Enter now for this Realtree UTV today! Enter to win more of the MAMACHALLENGE HOT HOT HOLIDAY TOY LIST!

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Indoor Things to Do in DFW with the Kids

July 10, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo 2 Comments

We all love summer, but when the sun’s beating down on your back, sometimes you need to head for the A/C. Here’s our guide to Indoor Things To Do in DFW with the Kids. (And we’ve got the secret to get you into many of them!)

I love Texas but there are days when you just can’t do one more day outside. That’s when you head back into the precious sanctuary of air-conditioning, however, you still have to keep the words “I’m Bored” from being uttered. So here are some of our favorite ways to escape the heat (and some giveaways to boot!) Plus see our secret how you can get into many of them with one pass and save money all at one time!

Hands-On Learning

1. Texas Discovery Garden & Butterfly Garden – Dallas

Kids love the 2-story Butterfly House where tropical butterflies dance around.

2. Crayola Experience – Plano

They have a playground, puzzles, and coloring galore! Plus, some fun shows and activities that will keep the kids busy all day. (Use the code AUTUMN and get a discount!)

(Photo credit Crayola Experience)

3. SeaLIFE Aquarium – Grapevine

This aquarium is so good, you won’t believe you’re in a mall. I’m talking sharks, rays, seahorses, and more!

4. Lego Discovery Center – Grapevine

Kids can race LEGO vehicles, watch 4D movies, and build tall towers on their Earthquake Tables! Talk about an indoor adventure.

Museums and Art

5. Amon Carter Museum – Fort Worth

Head to the museum on Thursdays from 10:30-12 for artmaking, art discovery, and story time!

6. Fort Worth Museum of Science & History – Fort Worth

This museum has stuff for both you and the kids! Check out their 9-11 Tribute while the kids head over to the Children’s Museum where they can play all day.

7. Perot Museum – Dallas

If you haven’t been to Perot, you need to go! There’s so much to do you can’t cover it in one day and with changing exhibits there’s something to do for the kids (and the adults!)

8. Gold Exhibit at Dallas Museum of Art – Dallas

Let’s be honest, we like shiny things just as much as our kids do. Go check out all of the fabulous things made from gold at the DMA’s newest exhibit.

9. Painting with a Twist – DFW

Painting with a Twist is totally kid-friendly now! Check out the nearest classes to your neighborhood.

10. Board & Brush – DFW

Canvas isn’t all you’ll paint on at Board & Brush. In fact, they prefer, you guessed it – BOARDS!

11. Front Porch Pottery – Fort Worth

Let the kids get messy and create a masterpiece. Surely you need a new whatchamacallit for your bathroom counter, right?

12. Sunshine Glaze – Southlake

Paint a plate (or any of the other fun ceramics) for memories and fun at this beloved venue! Don’t miss the theme days too for indoor painting fun!)

Sports

13. Top Golf – DFW

Because sometimes you just want your kids to get really tired so you can sleep through the night.

14. iFLY – DFW

For the kids that love a thrill, and parents that like to give themselves a minor heart attack.

15. Ice Rink at Galleria Dallas

For those REALLY hot days that you need a serious cool down.

Trampoline Parks

16. Urban Air – DFW

This place has a Warrior Obstacle Course, TUBES Playground, and a Battle BEAM. But don’t worry, it’s safe…

17. Flight Deck Trampoline Park – DFW

There are literally trampolines everywhere at this place. No fluff but the kids love it.

Gaming Centers

18. National Videogame Museum– Frisco

This little slice of nostalgia is just as much for you as it is the kids. Did someone say Burgertime?

19. Free Play – Arlington/Richardson

Just pay $10 to get in then let them play all day! They have over 95 games.

20. Alley Cats – Arlington

Bowling, games, rock climbing, and air conditioning – what more do you need?

21. Main Event – DFW

Old faithful never really gets old!

22. Dave and Busters – DFW

Fun for the whole family! Let them play their games while you grab a bite to eat and maybe a well-deserved glass of wine.

23. ItZ – Euless

Bowling, an arcade, and a pizza buffet will literally keep the kids distracted all day.

Water Parks

24. EpicWaters – Grand Prairie

This place is massive and brand new! Come here once and your kids won’t want to leave!

25. Great Wolf Lodge – Grapevine

If you’re in need of a staycation, this is the place to go! Plus it’s a one-stop shop with activities, restaurants, and a place to lay your head while the kids are running around with their magic wand (plus parents love it, too.)

Escape Rooms

26. The Escape Room – Grapevine

This one’s for your older kids who love figuring out puzzles!

27. Escape This – Dallas

They’re rated #1 on Yelp for Escape rooms for kids for a reason – great customer service and challenging scenarios.

There are lots of fun things you can do to beat the heat this summer. If you want to try a few, I HIGHLY recommend you grab a POGO Pass so you can get 12 months of free access to participating venues around DFW. (Affiliate partner.)

Be sure to use Promo Code: MAMACHALLENGE at www.pogopass.com for 60% off!

Why Mom Needs to Play

June 1, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo 9 Comments

When’s the last time you played with your kids? Forget the sidelines because Mom Needs to Play!

Thanks to The Crayola Experience and Dunkin Donuts for partnering with mamachallenge for some great giveaways.

When is the last time you “played” with your kids?

Not just watched them but played with them?

Studies show that moms that play with their kids vs. just managed, monitor, or act as the organizer are happier as individuals. And a bonus: seeing mom at play (and happy doing it) also creates a stronger bond with the kids to see you be happy.

Science also shows that the more productive and creative moms at play initiated the release of dopamine, the chemical that actually makes you happy.

Happy Mama, Happier Family.

Now this doesn’t mean you aren’t the parent, it’s more that you are involved in the process rather than administer it all the time. I remember as a kid, going swimming meant your parent watched you swim. And as a parent, I’ve done the same thing, but my kids have asked, can’t you go swimming with us? That’s parenting gold – simple request for such a simple thing to make them happy and it’s exercise!

Another poll asked kids what invention they hated most and the #1 answer was cell phones because their kids were always on them! That says a lot, right?

I actually asked my Facebook friends what’s something they loved as kids and quit doing as adults. The list filled up quick – with tons of things they loved doing and hadn’t done in years. But almost every one of them couldn’t be done with the kids.

More Ideas on this Topic:

Well Played: The Ultimate Guide to Awakening Your Family’s Playful Spirit

Playful Parenting: An Exciting New Approach to Raising Children That Will Help You Nurture Close Connections, Solve Behavior Problems, and Encourage Confidence

The Kidult Handbook: From Blanket Forts to Capture the Flag a Grownup’s Guide to Playing Like a Kid

So what are you waiting for?

100 Ways to Get Out There and Play Printable

Need some more starters? We have a list of 100 things you can do to play with your kids!

Download your free 100 Ways to Get Out There and Play Printable, then put it on the fridge and get ready for fun!

DOWNLOAD HERE

Playful Giveaways – Enter to Win

It doesn’t have to be hard or work, just fun! Start off coloring with your kids (or head to The new Crayola Experience in Plano and don’t just watch, but color yourself), make a pillow fort, sleep under the stars, or today’s National Donut Day, so go to Dunkin Donuts and get a free donut!

About the Crayola Experience

Explore the Crayola Experience at The Shops at Willow Bend in Plano, Texas is where the magic of Crayola comes to life! Let your creativity run wild, color outside the lines, learn, explore and learn. This is an attraction the whole family can enjoy a colorful adventure for a child (and an adult’s) imagination!

The Crayola Experience in Plano is giving away four passes to get you in the colorful mood!

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About Dunkin Donuts

What do you not know about Dunkin Donuts? It’s What America runs on. From coffee, to donuts and everything in between Dunkin Donuts make is your one spot for sweets, treats, and breakfast eats!

Dunkin Donuts is making it even easier to celebrate National Donut Day by sharing a $50 gift card with one special mamachallenge reader.

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Cleaning Out the Crap

May 11, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo 2 Comments

Are you at that place that your life just needs a big purge? It’s not easy to clean out the crap, but the process is necessary to get to the best parts of you.

Thanks to spa810 Uptown for helping us all to to clean it up and make it better with this giveaway!

At the end of 2017, I counted down the days for change.

I was ready to climb out of my skin and try on something different for 2018.

It so needed to happen.

I don’t know how I thought that was gonna happen without work. And let me tell you it’s been work.

The name of my game in 2018 has been PURGE.

I think HOARDERS should’ve kept a camera on me for the last few months as I’ve cleaned out one house; getting rid of 12 years of stuff we’d accumulated in the only home my family has ever lived in. Then in just over a weekend moving into a brand new house (<——see that’s house not home) that while it says it’s bigger, I cannot understand for the life of me how we have so much stuff STILL. So the purging continued and continues today (there are so many boxes that I’m still not going to show.)

What I found out with each piece is that it isn’t just stuff, but I had wrapped up memories in every single article. When pulling out something out of the box, my reactions seemed so vivid of the memories that you would have thought they happened yesterday. And man it was just a wine glass…You should have seen the tears roll down when I pulled out the first onesie I bought my daughter. That was drama.

So needless to say, it was hard for me to purge. And I’m still not even done.

I think there’s something like 20 boxes left and several of them ready to go when I finally find a way to get rid of the stuff (hey, some of this crap is brand spanking new!)

But the purge wasn’t just stuff around the house.

The purge needed to be me – inside and out.

All the crap in my head that I was believing about myself – it needed to shutdown.

“You’re not good enough”

“You’ll never be anything”

“You have’t done your part”

“You aren’t good enough”

“Your so ugly”

“Your body is so ugly.”

Those statements were like a shuffle and repeat.

So like many women, I began to believe them. And when you do that, it’s true – no matter what anyone else says.

I just wanted to roll up in a ball in the closet, but unfortunately the new house didn’t have any shelves yet so all the clothes were on the floor so there wasn’t any room to roll up so I got that much more upset.

I don’t tell you this to pity me, I tell you this because I know I’m not the only one. And so many others I know are going through this same feeling. A need for change, a need to clean up all that crap in my head, in my heart, and for me, all that crap sitting around my new house.

Want to know the moment I woke up?

It was when my son asked if we could just move back home because this place felt so empty. And he was right. Nothing was on the walls, Home Depot boxes strewn everywhere two months later, and a mom who couldn’t make turn the page to this brand new chapter of our life.

Oh where did I go wrong.

It was so past time to clean up my crap – mentally and physically.

But like the purging, it wasn’t going to be easy. Like an onion, I was going to have to pull off all the layers, one piece at a time.

I hadn’t been nice to me lately so even though I know water was everything, I was dry. And washing my face, whatever. Looking at the mirror, I felt like I had aged 10 years over the last 6 months. You could see it in my eyes, you could see it in my new gray hairs and you could see it in my skin.

Who was the woman in the mirror?

So it was time to remember.

I booked an appointment to spa810 Uptown to not just get a good cleaning. And not just a facial but HydraFacial MD with a NIR Skin Tightening, Lymphatic Drainage would help the purge make a bigger difference.

So of course, you’re asking what’s the difference between a facial and a Hydrafacial?

Good question.

At spa810 you can score a great facial with ultra sonic exfoliation treatment, lip plumping treatment, an eye treatment to address fine lines and dark circles, a neck and shoulder decollate massage, and a brow wax and shape.

Not so bad, right? And at less than $100 it’s a great deal.

But a Hydrafacial?

Basically you get all the facial results like cleansing, extractions and even an acid peel all from this little tool that sounds kinda like a motorized toothbrush that slices, dices, and julienne fries…Sometimes it’s vacuuming, sometimes it’s adding serum and collagen to the face, it’s rather amazing all of these actions happening with one machine.

It’s a four-step process and when you’re done, you get to see all the crap they pulled from your face (nothing like seeing that to remind you to wash your face at night!)

HydraFacial Process

Cleansing and exfoliation
Acid Peel
Extractions
Serum Application

And then you’re ready to roll – in just about 30 minutes and without a huge red face that makes you want to roll into a ball again (which is exactly what I didn’t need to be doing!) The service wasn’t just fast, but they made me feel relaxed immediately and explained every step throughout the process, so I didn’t feel hurried, but I could get what I needed done in a lunch break.

I also added on the Lymphatic drainage (yep, getting out more of the fluid and junk in my skin) and skin tightening (felt a lot like a sonogram on my face), but I’ll take it to make things kinda go back where they’re supposed to.

Take a look at all of this (if you like that kind of stuff.)

So did getting a HydraFacial Sculpt fix everything?

No it didn’t. But it did make me take care of myself which was the first step in my mental purging process. And my skin did feel a lot better, so I could head off to Beverly Hills to have drinks with Lisa Vanderpump and dinner with Taye Diggs.

That’s an improvement, right?

So if you need a nudge to get your purging process I’d suggest you get moving in the right direction at spa810 in Uptown Dallas. And right now with so many Mother’s Day specials going throughout the month of May, you can get the same treatment I received at more than half off (just $149.) You can also get a massage with either a skin-tightening treatment or a trip to the Alpha-Fusion Pod for less than $100. So that’s something to celebrate.

And a one lucky reader will get to celebrate even more with a $50 gift certificate to use at spa810 in Uptown.

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