The Next Kid Thing

This week I’m so honored to be attending the PBS Annual Meeting in Denver as one of the PBS Kids VIPs (Very Involved Parents.) As a parent ambassador for PBS Kids, alongside a number of influential social media colleagues in the parenting space, I’ve been listening in on several sessions and interacting with some of the brains behind the educational programming at PBS Kids.

Over the years, perhaps you’ve read about how I’ve been to Sesame Street, learned about how SS is ahead of the curve in the educational digital space, hung out with the Electric Company, met Super Why’s creators, shared dessert with Curious George and more. PBS Kids has always embraced bloggers and social media, so I’m beyond thrilled to continue our growing relationship as a VIP.

A fan and advocate for smart, yet cutting edge programming for children, this ambassadorship is, perhaps, one of the most exciting opportunities I’ve participated in to date. It’s beyond inspiring and uplifting to listen to these incredibly creative people behind the shows our kids love.

What I love most about what I do, is that I get to share this information with like-minded parents on my social media outlets, but also, I get to use my voice in this parenting space as an advocate for children’s media.

With two kids, media intake and the content being absorbed, is something I take very seriously. I’ve always championed shows that embody educational, social and creative values that I already teach at home. Excellent programming, to me, supplements the lessons I already advocate at home. With fantastic shows like Super Why, Curious George, Cat in the Hat, the Wild Kratts and more, it goes without saying, PBS Kids’ programming happily fills our mornings in between our own preschool-friendly activities.

So, on the docket over the next few days, I will be learning more about the new show, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, listening in on the general session called, “It’s a New Day in the Neighborhood,” and of course, network with my fellow VIPs, as well as meet some exciting Movers and Shakers behind the properties at PBS Kids.

If you’d like to follow the conversation, feel free to check out the hashtag #PBSam on Twitter. Want fun visuals about #PBSam? catch me on Instagram @jenrab

As usual, so much has been going on around here.  Even though I haven’t been updating as frequent as I like, I’m always updating Twitter, Facebook and my current obsession (and everyone else’s,) Instagram.

My current Instagram obsession made me think about the other obsessions we have going on in our house.  My Four year old is at that stage in life where he clings onto things incessantly.  And the fact that I review kid products means that his obsessions change with every new package we receive, or so it seems.

So, I thought I’d try to update weekly on what are our new favorites.  It will most likely be a random sampling of things, but all fun finds nonetheless.

1. Transformer Bot Shots

These Bot Shots from Hasbro can be cataloged in a few different ways:  they’re collectible, have a battle aspect and they transform.  They’re small in size, which makes them perfect for young school-aged kids and maybe even preschoolers.  The fact that they’re Transformers adds to the cool factor.  When in battle mode, players can push, then crash into their opponent, and then the Bot Shot automatically transforms.  I can’t tell you how many battles we’ve had with our guys.

I love the low price point for these toys, almost as much as I love the fun play pattern.  It’s competitive, yet creative and all around fun, especially for Transformers fans.

2.  Chan, Pie and Gnon Teethers

I’ve had a lot of baby on the brain as of late, and baby toys are no exception.  I’ve talked a lot of Sophie the Giraffe, but I’m so excited that the makers of Sophie have friends for this famous giraffe.  Chan, Pie and Gnon are rubber, just like Sophie.  These little mushroom-looking characters are easy to grab and even have a squeaker toy inside.  As my baby learns to grasp things, it’s so cute to hear that little squeaker squeak.

3.  Skylanders Cloud Patrol

The uber popular video game franchise is already a hit on the web and on consoles, and now, it’s available on mobile platforms.  Our whole family loves playing Skylanders, so naturally, Cloud Patrol was an instant hit for all of us.  Cloud Patrol has a combination of mini-missions and shooting adventures, which are all easy to play on a touch-pad devices.  The colors and characters are just as vibrant as the other game platforms, and quite honestly just as addicting.  Activision is getting it right with the multi-platform interactivity.  I love the way you can engage characters you already own, just by inputting the number they came with.  Skylanders Cloud Patrol is a game that will be along with many of our roadtrips and train rides this summer.

There’s lots of good stuff on the horizon that our fellow Gabba fans will appreciate.  Not only has DJ Lance and the crew taken over our tvs, toy box and tunes, but now, they’re helping the kids get cozy for bedtime.

A range of reasonably-priced, super cool  YGG bedding in now available at Walmart.  The Yo Gabba Gabba bedding that’s sure to be a hit with tune-loving tots includes a 4-piece toddler bedding set, a variety of blankets and some cool Pillow Pals.
We received a cool toddler blanket, just in time for a recent bug and bout with a double ear infection and then newborn congestion and cold. (ugh!)  Needless to say, this cuddly blanket has been a comforting sidekick over the past few days.  My 4yo has been clutching it day and night, and I don’t blame him.  It’s so soft, warm and because of its smaller size, it’s totally portable.  Even though it’s toddler-sized, it still does the trick for my tall guy.

Super Spies on DVD

And speaking of Yo Gabba Gabba goodness, there’s a new dvd that also recently hit the shelves.  The hilarious Jason Bateman guest stars as a spy in the new four episode of Yo Gabba Gabba!, “Super Spies,” which debuted on DVD on April 17.  Yo Gabba Gabba Super Spies is full of adventure and the usual Gabba fun, but with a quirky musical spy recovery mission mixed in.  It’s been the perfect complement for our quarantined sick days as of late.

More YGG Goodness

And for even more Gabba-related coolness, in case you missed it, co-creator Scott Schultz was the keynote speaker at Kindiefest last weekend.  The musical mecca of the coolest kid music, Kindiefest celebrates the best of the best in the kid indie musical scene.  There was tons of great coverage, but I particularly loved my friend, Amy at Media Macaroni’s take on things.  I’m so sad I missed Kindiefest yet again, but Amy’s recap of Schultz’s Keynote underscored my love for YGG AND made me feel like I was really there.

And just a little more Gabba goodness, I recently had the unique opportunity to interview the other co-creator of YGG, Christian Jacobs.  I love interviewing fascinating people involved in the baby and kid space, but when I get to connect to inspiring creatives like Jacobs, that’s when I truly geek out.  We chatted about the awesomeness that is The Aquabats, the show that’s been squatting on our DVR and reinventing our Saturday mornings.  If you’re a Gabba fan or a fan of punk, or just a fan of quirky shows, tune to The Aquabats on The Hub at 11am on Saturday mornings.  It’s wacky and weird, but oh so funny.  I’ll post that interview soon!

Just a few months out of Toy Fair, one would think I’d be toy-ed out.  Not so much, friends.  Time to Play’s showcases are some of my favorite events to attend, not only because they focus on the best toys, but because it’s a great one-on-one networking event.  I get to ask questions and really get into the nitty gritty of what’s hot (and not) in the toy realm.

At this year’s Time to Play Spring Showcase, the manufacturers displayed a small selection of their latest wares.  And because it was the Spring Showcase, most toymakers had goodies and gadgets suited for spring and summer play, as well as toys that complement this summer’s blockbuster movie hopefuls.

Here’s the round up of what Time to Play thinks that’s hot for this Spring.

LEGO Friends

LEGO prettied some of their sets to create this line geared to girls.  LEGO Friends has parents both loving and despising this girl-centric line, but one thing you can’t ignore that it has people talking.  My thoughts: LEGO is and will always be a brand that families know and trust, even if those tiny pieces can stab you in the feet when you step on them.  I may not be a mom of girls, but I’ve seen my nieces and friends’ kids’ play patterns.  Building blocks are well known to encourage creativity and logic, if making LEGOs pink and purple gets the girls inspired, then so be it.

LaLaLoopsy Littles

These characters continue to engage girls with their quirky style and funky fashions.  The Littles are portable and convenient for smaller hands.

Monsuno Cores, Wild Core and Strike Launcher

Monsuno is a show that’s become super popular quite recently, so naturally, the toys are following suit.  This is a line from Jakks that I need to learn more about to get a better grasp.  One thing I do know?  My next door neighbor’s grandson is a huge fan and gave these toys a thumbs up.

Monster High Operetta, Rochelle Goyle and Toralei dolls

The storied characters continue to get girls talking.  There’s a huge fan base for Monster High, so it’s no surprise these gals made it on to the TTP list.

Skylanders Wave 4 Figures

Where do I even begin with Skylanders?  My family is completely smitten with Skylanders, just like many of yours, I’m imagining.  In fact, at Toys R Us just a few weeks ago, I almost had to wrestle a kid for a certain character.  Skylanders characters are hot!  I’ll go more into detail about Skylanders later, but don’t expect this franchise to die down anytime soon.

Squishy Baff

My first thought?  This messy stuff is gross and won’t ever find its way in my bathtub.  Part of that statement is true; Spinmaster sent me a sample, and while it didn’t find its way into the tub, it did entertain my 4 year old for hours.  He played with it on the deck, and I have to say, my opinion about it has totally changed.  I don’t love it, but the kid sure does!  More on this soon!

Movie Toys

The Dark Knight Rises The Bat

Imaginext DC Super Friends Batcave

The big kid received this as his big birthday present last year.  Of all the toys we’ve bought in recent years, it’s perhaps been the best investment.  Kids are drawn to it when they come over to play, and my kid continues to play with it regularly as well.  It’s perfect for role playing and exercising creative, imaginative play.

Classic Battleship Movie Edition Game

The Amazing Spider-Man Electronic Figure

Merida: Disney/Pixar’s Brave Merida Doll, Disney/Pixar’s Brave Merida Forest Adventure

•    I can’t WAIT for Brave.  Actually, the husband can’t wait for it either.  Whenever we see the commercials, it sparks a conversation on how it’s exciting to see a non-girly redhead in the lead role of a Disney story.  That said, I can’t wait for all of these toys to hit the shelves!

Outdoor Fun:

Outdoor toys are some of my favorite!  I loved the ones they picked, but would’ve loved to see something that might engage the older girls as well.  What? I’m not sure….
I’m working on a piece on my favorite outdoor toys, so expect to see  a few of these on that list.

•    Air Storm Z-X Crossbow

•    The Original Big Wheel Racer

•    FlashRider 360

•    Sandy Lagoon Waterpark from Little Tikes

With Easter and Passover right around the corner, bulky winter gear is thankfully being replaced with snazzy Spring outfits for the kids.

The Children’s Place, one of my longtime favorites for staples and dress clothes, has a great Spring line up filled with classic styles with plenty of details. This season has styles for everyone, from girls, boys, tots to babies.

We were invited to shop at TCP a few weeks ago to check out the latest offerings first-hand.  With a big boy and a newborn to shop for, my biggest dilemma was deciding which items to take home.  I have a weakness when it comes to shopping for kid’s clothes, which attributes to kids’ overflowing dressers and closets. We had a friend take family portraits shortly thereafter, which gave us a great reason to take the kids’ new clothes from TCP for a spin.

Boys clothes aside, TCP had the most beautiful dresses and outfits for girls, too.  Admittedly, I’m not a head-to-toe pink fan for girls, so I was glad to see that TCP had dresses beyond shades of pink. Most dresses and tops were adorned with bling or some other eye catching details. My favorites were the classic white and black dresses. But most importantly, TCP gets it right with age-appropriate silhouettes for girls.

From Baby to Big Boy

For my own kids, I was excited to find dressy clothes for both boys in one spot.  I haven’t been shopping for two kids that long, but based on my experiences as a kid, I was anticipating having to shop at multiple stores to accommodate different sizes and tastes.  At TCP, we found plenty of jolly roger, pirate-influenced clothes, something my four-year-old is crazy about.  He quickly snactched up some khaki shorts, a tie and collared shirt, all bearing small skull and cross bones details.  I also grabbed some undies, a t-shirt and a nice dress shirt for the big kid, all items that have been getting great wear thus far.  The dress shirt, I noticed, is a different quality from other dress shirts we’ve bought from TCP.  This plaid shirt that looks much like “daddy’s work shirts,” is classic, but soft to the touch.

For the baby, I stocked up on portrait-worthy dress clothes, perfect for Easter Sunday.  A Southern girl through and through, I always love dressing my boys in seersucker.  I was excited to find baby pants and a matching hat, all in seersucker.  I also picked up a dress shirt with anchor details and a few pairs of jammies for the babe.

Be sure to check out their latest in spring and summer clothes!  And before you go shopping, make sure you Google for coupons.  TCP seems to always have good coupons out there.

Full disclosure: We were provided a gift card to The Children’s Place as part of media shop day.  As always, all opinions on NKT are my own.

Do you guys read New York Family?  We’re not a New York Family, but I still read it!  Because we live so close to the City, I relate to City happenings much more than I do my local neighborhood weekly.  New York Family is a fabulous print publication that also has a wonderful presence online.  Aside from the fun goings-on, New York Family does a great job profiling New York moms, including many of my blogging friends.

I had the pleasure of being included online in a quick profile, “Five Questions for Jen Rabulan-Bertram.”  Because of my second time new mom status coinciding with their newly launched newsletter focusing on babies and expectant parents, the editor profiled five of my favorite gear, gadgets and goodies for new parents. I can’t say enough good things about our high chair from Svan, our stroller/second car from UPPAbaby, Stokke Bounce N Sleep, TommeeTippee Closer to Nature Monitor and Charlie Banana reusable diapers.

I’m usually the one doing the questions-asking, so it was fun to be asked a few questions for a change.  A big thanks to New York Family for highlighting my faves!  If you’re a new mama or about to be one, be sure to subscribe to their new newsletter.

I’ll just go ahead and state the obvious here: McDonald’s is not the most nutritious option.  The most nutritious meal that you can serve your family is one that is well balanced, probably follows the tenets of USDA’s My Plate and it might involve Super Foods such as salmon, eggs, quinoa and the like. The ideal nutritious meal, if you’re lucky, is served at home and not at fast food joints.

So, what is the biggest fast food chain doing touting nutrition?  Well, that’s what I’m trying to find out. Today, along with some of my fellow NJ/NY bloggers, I’m attending a press event that is announcing McDonald’s New York Metro Nutrition Network Launch.

Last year, the company pledged their commitment to offer “improved nutrition choices.“  Their longterm plan involves menu evolution and nutrition awareness communication.

When I was invited to participate in this media event, what piqued my interest wasn’t the promise of a tray full of Shamrock Shakes, but instead, the opportunity to connect with representatives to get answers.  My journalism background has me itching to learn their side of the story, beyond a press release. I need to hear in-person their stance on Pink Slime, GMO and additives that may or may not be added to some of their “healthier” options. Why still offer sodas as an option for the Happy Meal?  And how about offer a salad on the Dollar Menu?  I often write about ideas on how to make healthier decisions, which includes food choices.  So, it probably seems hypocritical that I even agreed to participate in this media event that involves fast food.  Plain and simple: I need to find answers.

Never say never

Awhile back, a blogging friend once asked me why I didn’t attend a past McDonald’s event.  I guffawed and insisted that I’d probably never attend one of those events because I try to focus on healthier alternatives. Never say never…

I’ll admit, I love McDonald’s free wifi and the enclosed playground that kept the kid and me somewhat sane this winter.  We’d eat a homecooked lunch and then go to McDonald’s for a treat and play on the playground.  I’d usually have a coffee or one of their cafes; he’d have a milk and a sundae.  There are days though, where I just don’t have time to comb my hair, nevermind plan dinner or have the energy to make it.  We are a one-car family in the suburbs, and I’m no magician. I’m human.  And that’s where fast food saves the day.  It’s clearly not the healthiest option, but we indulge anyway. As I reinforce to my older kid, fake food is the processed stuff and real food is the stuff you get at home.

So many of us are lucky enough to have many options to eat healthy foods at home, and sometimes at school or work.  Sadly, as I’ve seen in neighboring towns, some families don’t have those options.  Author and TV personality, Tanya Zuckerbrot, M.S., R.D. is expected to be onhand to share insight at today’s event, and I hope to share some info. that may help families with less options make better decisions.

While preparing for this McDonald’s assignment, I researched and read (and re-read) these helpful articles.
McDonald’s Stops Using Pink Slime Seattle PI, 2/1/12
McDonald’s Healthier Happy Meals Still Unhealthy, The Atlantic, 7/11 (this is a must-read)
McDonalds release on Commitments to Offer Improved Nutrition Choices 7/11
Happy Meal Makeover, NYT 7/11

Nutrition Network

Beyond burgers and Happy Meals, I’m most excited about the Nutrition Network, the community outreach initiative that McDonald’s New York is launching.  This new community outreach initiative will award grants to local organizations in the tri state area for grassroots nutrition programs.

I’ll be back with my findings.  Until then, be sure to follow our tweets on the Twitter, under #McDNN.

With Spring now in full bloom, it’s time to update the kids’ closets with warm weather clothes.  I’m always excited when we can finally replace the monochromatic shades of winter with a more colorful palette, full of weather-appropriate goodies.  And with Spring comes all the fun new fashion lineups, including those for the most fashionable kids!  Designers like Ralph Lauren have a penchant for outfitting the entire family with classic, yet versatile pieces, and that goes for the 2012 RL Gang Spring line.

Photo Credit: Momtrends

The line, which is out now, features classic pieces synonomous with Ralph Lauren’s Americana influence, and mixes it up with some edgy, girly or preppy flair.  Like many of the kids who wear these pieces, RL Gang reflects this diverse spectrum.  Whether it’s the tattered jeans, ruffled details or classic stripes that suits your kid, the expansive and super cute 2012 RL Gang Spring collection has it covered.

My favorites include the girl’s white blazer with pink detail and the boy’s dark denim paired with classic Polo stripes.

Because our entire family loves Ralph Lauren, I’ve mentioned RL Gang in the past; in fact, I posted about last year’s Spring debut. So, it was quite a treat to be invited to this year’s RL Gang Spring launch and video preview at Bloomingdale’s. The RL Gang Spring event was hosted by my friend, Nicole Feliciano of Momtrends, whom, I’m sure you know, is a style maven and fixture in the fashion front.

This was my first blog-related outing with both baby and big kid in tow, so it was quite fitting to preview this Spring line firsthand and meet some of the beautiful kids who comprise the RL Gang Class of 2012.  The precocious little girl, dubbed Willow and epitomizes Bohemian chic, approached the baby and me and made small talk.  I’m imagine she’s about four or five, and asked if she could carry the baby.  Even though I politely declined, I got a little chuckle out of it.

The big kid, who waxes poetic about being a movie star/model/rock star one day, enjoyed all the fun treats and rubbing elbows with his “peers” at the RL Gang Spring event; he even has his Flipbook to show for it.  To boot, one of the local tv news outlets, WPIX, was on hand to cover the event.  The boys and I made a super quick cameo at the very end!

Be sure to check out the Spring RL Gang and the adorable Class of 2012 online.

We might be well into 2012, but I got a little nostalgic while putting together an application.  This application process, which involved pinning the best of 2011′s toys, made me really think about what made these toys and games so great*.  But before I go into that, here’s just a few of the hot toys of 2011.  Coincidentally, I was at the launch for two of my favorite toys from last year, but parties and costumed monsters aside, these toys really rocked!

Let’s Rock Elmo

This interactive and rockstar-inspired version of the the furry red monster, comes with his own tambourine, microphone and bongos. Kids can sing or play along with Elmo or let Elmo be his own one man band with his instruments.  I love how Let’s Rock Elmo can recognize the instruments and does his own little dance.  And not surprisingly, since this Elmo sings and dances, my four year old still loves to rock out with him.  And as I mentioned on my Pinterest description, one of my favorite aspect of Let’s Rock Elmo is that its interactivity is a hit with many special needs kids.

Skylander Spyro’s Adventure

I have a whole detailed post about Skylander coming up, but I’ll just reiterate what I said on Pinterest. Activision’s Skylander Spyro’s Adventure does what no other video game has been able to do: bring characters to life in the form of functioning collectibles.  And even though he may not totally get the game itself, my guy loves the concept and the whimsical characters—so much so, he slept with his Skylander case for weeks!

Pining for Pinterest

As social media continues to flourish, I try my best to stay at the forefront of it all. Even though I haven’t been blogging as much as I’d like, in our families’ recent health scares and the new baby arrival, Pinterest has kept inspired.  Over the past few months I haven’t been pinning kid products as much, but instead, I’ve been unearthing ideas for my home and brightening up my monochromatic wardrobe!  But tonight as part of the Toy Insider Parent Advisory Board application I submitted, I put together some pins and my opinions on what I thought were some of the best toys of 2011.  I’ll be sure to update my boards with more cool kid stuff.  Pinterest is such a tricky space right now, so I’ll more than likely share my own ideas and repinning everything under the moon!  And since we’re talking about pinning, find me on Pinterest!

*IMO: What makes a toy great

Since I’ve been writing about kid products for a few years now, I thought I’d reassess why I choose to feature the toys and products on this site. Why do I think a toy is great?  Aside from what my own family thinks about a product, I consider these things:

• Does it have a lot of play value? (this is a biggie)
• Will it make it past the first month?
• Is it durable enough to pass down?
• Is it safe?
• Is it educational in some way?
• Will it drive me crazy?
• Is it really worth it?

As products in general constantly evolve, I still get excited about the newest innovations in toys, games, apps, books.  I count my lucky stars for being able to do something fun and fascinating on my own terms.

The day is finally here:  DVF for Gap Kids and BabyGap has officially launched.  It’s the day that many fashionista mommas, their mini fashionistas and Diane von Furstenburg fans alike have been anticipating.  Ok, so, the line has been seen online for weeks, and even hit Gap’s online site earlier this week, but today’s the day where we can pick up mini-wrap dresses for the smallest stylish set in-store.

The DVF for Gap Kids line ranges from $20-$85 and includes cute spring pieces such as rompers, dresses, leggings and assorted accessories.  DVF for Gap Kids features bold, whimsical prints in silhouettes that DVF fans already know and love. The adorable line for girls was created exclusively by designer Diane Von Furstenburg for Baby Gap and Gap Kids and is expected to be a hot seller. So, if you’re hoping to pick up a fun spring dress for your own budding fashionista, run, don’t walk, to your local Baby Gap or Gap Kids!

According to tweets that I’ve seen from my blogging pals who cover fashion, it looks like the line is a big hit, as expected.  Though I can’t see myself stocking my kid’s closet with $75 dresses that they’ll quickly grow out of, how can you resist an outfit or two when they’re this cute!  I love that they’re modern prints with classic appeal and age-appropriate pieces.  That romper (which as of this posting, I can’t find on the site,) that dress (same for this one pictured) and the bathing suits are so gift-worthy! Hello, cuteness! Thank goodness I don’t have any girls, otherwise I’d be even MORE broke! Ok, Gap, so what designer collaboration are we doing for the boys?

Judging from the fact that some pieces are already sold out online, from what I’ve seen, DVF for babyGap and Gap Kids lives up to the hype.  But as a sidenote (and as a mom to boys I would’ve never thought about this,) I’ve seen a few bloggers who have mentioned that the wrap dresses with attached shorts for toddlers may be confusing for the potty training set. Nevertheless, it sounds like DVF for Gap Kids is so popular, that these adorable dresses won’t be on the racks that long.

DVF for Gap Kids is available in stores and online now.