Stride Rite Children’s Group Showcases Spring 2014 at PetiteParade

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

They may be small in stature, but the runway models from last week’s PetiteParade were big on style with a little extra spunk.

As part of Children’s Fashion Week, a number of trendsetting brands showcased their latest and greatest on the PetiteParade’s runway last week. Stride Rite Children’s Group punctuated the two-day event with their signature classic style. In their show, Stride Rite Children’s Group featured Stride Rite, Saucony, Merrell, Nordstrom, Sperry and Keds.

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Stride Rite opened their Spring 2013 show with a whimsical nod to their flower-inspired styles. Colorful classic sandals with flower details and coral gold-toed Mary Janes were among the most eye-catching styles that started off the StrideRite show.
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I loved the way that StrideRite can seamlessly translate trends into age-appropriate fashion in their footwear, such as pink hombre flower details on gladiator-style sandals.

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For the boys and superhero aficionado, StrideRite showcased one of their beloved licenses, Marvel. The casual-cool slip-ons embraced superhero flair without compromising modern style. For the sporty set, Saucony showcased styles suitable for both boys and girls. With neon details and velcro closures for smaller kids, Saucony has Spring styles for athletes of all sizes.

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Merrell, a newcomer to the Stride Rite Children’s Group, made quite the entrance. Gray sneakers with turquoise and pink detailing underscore Merrell’s footing in the outdoor sector. My favorite from Merrell, however, was a hiking boot that looked both playful and fashionable, and something totally ideal for my rugged boy with discerning taste.

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Sperry showcased a sampling of both chic and classic styles for Spring. A royal blue pair of Sperry Topsiders looked sleek with a sport coat, yet I’m imagining they would be just as cool with a pair of jeans. The pink striped with sequins, though, were the most chic style from this mainstay brand.

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Stride Rite Children’s Group ended their show with Keds, yet another classic brand well-associated with style. This brand, synonymous, for their signature white canvas sneakers, featured a splash of color with a bit of modern-classic prints thrown into the mix. It was so fitting that a super cute, but super shy model ended the show with a sporty cape and signature white sneakers.


Following the show, Malinda Freitas, Stride Rite Children’s Group Brand Marketing Manager and Jennifer Smith, Fashion Stylist for the show, gave the bloggers onhand a rundown of Stride Rite’s Spring looks. Freitas underscored the importance of real fashion that moms can incorporate into everyday wear, something that I totally “get” from Stride Rite. An honest brand enthusiast, I have always bought Stride Rite for practicality and durability first. It’s always been an added extra that this beloved brand stays so relevant with its cutting-edge style.

Check out the behind the scenes interview with Malinda Freitas, Stride Rite Brand Marketing Manager and Jennifer Smith Fashion Stylist.

Peg + Cat Debuts on PBSKids

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

When I was first introduced to Peg + Cat at the PBS Annual meeting this past Spring, I was immediately smitten.  A spunky little girl + a quirky cat + a math curriculum—what’s not to love?  With its catchy songs, fantastic graphics, Peg + Cat, which debuts today on PBS Kids, will, no doubt, be an instant hit for the PBSKids core audience.

I love the fact that this new show, created by Jennifer Oxley and Billy Aronson, the minds behind Little Bill, The Wonder Pets and Rent and Postcards from Buster, respectively, has an emphasis on math and problem solving for the preschool/kindergarten set.  The musical elements, including the catchy songs, guitar/ukelele and other accompanying instruments magnify the cuteness of Peg + Cat’s adventures.

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 Through their adventures, Peg + Cat not only help each other to solve problems, but learn from mistakes, which, in turn, teaches young minds the value of learning from mistakes and experimentation, as well as cooperation.

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According to the creators of the show, the learning goals for Peg + Cat include: present age-appropriate concepts and math skills; broaden kids’ thinking about math; inspire creative problem solving; help kids see that math can be cool and inspiring.

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I have a Kindergartener, and from just watching the first few episodes, it’s so interesting to see how close the stories from Peg + Cat are to my son’s actual lessons. Cylinders, sorting and counting to 100 are just a few of the many parallel lessons that I’ve seen so far.

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The beautiful colors and endearing graphics set this new show apart.  Because of its emphasis on math, there are geometric shapes throughout.  The graph paper background is one of the show’s coolest graphic element to me.  As a kid, I was an aspiring artist and creative mind, so I used to draw on graph paper every chance I got.  It’s so cool to see an animated show “come to life” on graph paper. But more than anything, it’s awesome that graph paper still has significance in the digital age of art.

There’s so much to love about Peg + Cat and the conversation that this new property brings to the preschool arena.  Beyond the first glimpse of this show, we’ve also had the chance to preview recipes, a well-planned partnership with Whole Foods and Peg + Cat’s other platforms.  I will absolutely have more to share about Peg + Cat, but for now, check out the initial reading that the star of the show did during auditions.

Peg + Cat, a production of The Fred Rogers Company, airs every day on PBS Kids.  Check your local listings for time and channel.

Full disclosure:  I am a PBS Kids VIP and am often given a sneak peek of new and notable happenings for its properties.  I was not compensated to share this information, but am absolutely enthusiastic about sharing otherwise.  As always, all opinions on NKT are my own.

Developmental Toys for Toddlers

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

We’re toys (almost) all the time around here, but with baby’s ongoing therapies, my view of some toys have totally changed.  Being in the business of kid products for a few years now, what I once thought was a so-so toy, is now an excellent developmental tool.

We just had another crazy week of doctors visits, therapists and tests, so I wanted to focus on positive aspects of our day: toys.  Toys always make things better, especially when “professionals” are constantly evaluating my sweet guy.

So, I thought I’d round up just a few of our favorite toys of the moment, particularly ones that I consider to have excellent developmental value for my boy with delays. Even though my guy is just about 20 months, most toys’ age designators round up around 18m, hence the photo’s title.  What’s so great about these toys is that they’re geared to kids of all abilities, which basically means, they can be found on “regular” toy shelves or specialty stores and online.

1.  Haba Walker WagonAs first time parents, my husband I invested in less toys, but instead procured quality, eco-friendly baby products.  From our crib to this wooden walker, I carefully researched each item that we welcomed into our home…and I’m so glad we did!  Six years later, we STILL use many of those products, including this amazing Walker Wagon from Haba.

Made of solid wood and touting storage in the back and fun seat in the front, Haba’s Walker Wagon is a sturdy walker and one that can carry toys or a sibling upfront.  Its solid construction makes it a heavy toy, one that’s not meant to be picked up, but instead, serve as a sturdy walker that can help early walkers to balance themselves.  I absolutely this thing and am so glad we opted for this one years ago, now that we have a late walker who needs a bit more reinforcement.

2. Happy Giddy Bowling Set

While the concept of bowling and toddlers may not align well, this Happy Giddy Bowling Set from Melissa and Doug engages would-be knee-high bowlers.  Along with the bright colors, M&D incorporates fun bug faces to engage curious tots, including my own.  We don’t own this set, however, the baby’s physical therapist uses the bowling set to encourage total body interaction—picking up, putting down, rolling— something that helps my late walker to build his core.

3. Tolo Electronic Cash Register

I am a huge fan of Tolo toys, specifically this cash register, which just so happens to be the only electronic toy on this list.  The main electronic feature of this great developmental toy is the noise it makes when a child swipes the mini credit card.  The cash register features Tolo’s primary colors and sturdy plastic construction, all assets that engage my toddler.  What makes this cash register stand apart, is that it’s small enough for a toddler to manipulate with their tiny fingers. It’s easy to operate, which also keeps my toddler engaged long enough to play a pretend game of grocery store with big brother.  Tolo has a great chart on their site that indicates the developmental skill that is used for each toy, which I LOVE!  Dexterity, hand-eye coordination, memory and color recognition are just a few skills that are encouraged when playing with the electronic cash register.

4. Scrambled Eggs Puzzle

This puzzle game from Reeves Toys is another toy that our physical therapist introduced to my toddler.  By incorporating colors and shapes to the interior of the eggs, this toy allows a toddler to handle each piece while figuring things out on their own.  I enjoy the overall concept of the puzzle that helps with cognitive and fine motor skills, I just wish the egg crate was easier to open and close for kids.

5. Sensory Balls from Hedstrom

I’m sure many of you have seen these balls, and probably own a few too.  What I like most about these balls is that they’re colorful and the tiny nobs give toddlers a better sense of grip, hand-eye coordination and color recognition. These sensory balls also allow toddlers to engage in independent play as well as co-play with friends.  Personally, I love the size of these sensory balls and tend to have two or three in the car or stroller to entertain the tot when we’re on the go.

6. Parum Pum Pum from B. Toys

This set is actually one of my favorite toys to give to one year olds for presents, but ironically, we don’t own it ourselves.  Instead, this is one toy that motivates my toddler to walk during his sessions with his physical therapist.  Like many tots, he loves music and banging on things, so this set capitalizes on both with the drum storage and drumsticks. The tambourine, bells and other fun instruments also keep him happy with their fun sounds.  The colors and bug faces, too, keep him on his toes.  What’s so great about this set, like many other B. Toys, Parum Pum Pum set is highly rated by Able Play, a rating system for children with special needs and disabilities.

I’d love to hear about any awesome toys that you and your kids love that also promote developmental skills.

Full disclosure:  samples were provided for the cash register and scrambled eggs.  For everything else, we bought on our own, or don’t actually own.  As always, all opinions on NKT are my own.  And please do not ever mistake my opinions for medical or child professional advice.

Reading Enrichment with Play-Doh and Star Wars

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

With school back in session, I wanted to share one of the many activities that we’ve been doing to sharpen and enhance Biggie’s reading skills.


Because of his late September birthday, we redshirted our five year old and thus, I’ve been vigilant about bridging the transition to Kindergarten. I have much to say about redshirting and transitional kindergarten in general, but I’ll save that for another day. Today, it’s all about Play-Doh and Star Wars.

Reading enrichment comes in many forms, but for one rainy afternoon, we paired Play-Doh and Star Wars to engage in a hands-on reading activity that just happened to focus on Biggie’s favorite characters. I let J flip through one of his favorite books right now, which is a DK Readers Level One book called Who Saved the Galaxy? by Catherine Saunders. Since he’s not quite reading fluidly on his own, I love the fact that this book has characters he loves and can decipher words with graphic help. Not to mention, it’s a well known tactic that familiar characters engage beginning readers. In our case, my beginning reader is most interested in things like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, space and Star Wars.


For this project, we used Play-Doh’s new Ultimate Rainbow Pack. The wide range of colors makes this activity fun since the novelty of new colors and variety keeps J interested in the task at hand. Once he picked his colors, he used various cutters to cut out letters for characters like Luke Skywalker.


We moved on to other characters and even picked colors that matched the characters color scheme; yellow and brown complemented C 3P0 quite perfectly!

To change it up, we decided to roll letters, which also works on those fine motor skills, and is important for proper writing utensil handling. By rolling the letters, I found that it was a great way to better understand letter formation since he had to manipulate pieces to form the letters.


Our most favorite part of this project was making a model of R2D2. This project was a fun way to work together to create something we both like! To work further on those fine motor skills, I let J cut out the tiny buttons that make up R2D2’s robotic exterior. I helped J to make the formation of R2D2 himself, but allowed him to make the final touches of all the pieces.


By pairing Play-Doh and Star Wars, not only were we able to keep occupied and have fun on a rainy afternoon, but we made Play-Doh educational by twisting it into a reading activity. Play-Doh isn’t the cleanest activity, so I’d suggest using Glad Press and Seal for easy clean up. To make Play-Doh an educational activity on our own, just grab your favorite book, pull words and play away. The more accessories, colors and words, the better!

I’m so sure teachers do activities like this in school, but for us at home, it’s a great way to sharpen reading skills and express creativity by bringing our favorite characters to life via Play-Doh and Vine!

Full disclosure:  we were provided with a sample of Play-Doh, but we used our own creativity for this fun project.  As always, all opinions are my own.

Mondo DuckTales Posters are Throwback Awesomeness

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

If you were a kid of the 90s, or knew someone that was, then perhaps the classic Disney cartoon DuckTales has some significance.  My younger brother who is 6 years younger than me, watched a whole different set of shows as a kid, including DuckTales, that crazy cartoon about Scrooge and those mischievous nephews, Huey, Dewey and Louie.  My brother watched that show for years, and until recently, I haven’t thought about those fun characters.

On the heels of the newly released DuckTales: Remastered video game, Disney.com’s blog Oh My Disney collaborated with pop-culture art gallery Mondo to create a limited edition DuckTales poster series.

Even though my kids don’t know who these guys are, I’m tempted to buy a few of them for their playroom.  So fun!  Check out MondoTees.com to snatch these posters up.

Super Buddies is fun, furry and family-friendly

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

Those adorable pups are back for another installment in Disney’s “Buddies” Franchise.  Super Buddies, out tomorrow, August 27, is a fun, furry and family friendly adventure that follows the cutest caped crusaders.  In Super Buddies, Budderball, Mudbud, B-Dawg, Buddha and Rosebud discover mysterious rings that grant them each a unique super power.  Each pup has their own ability and are eager to rescue, despite the evil lurking in the form of a shape-shifting alien.
Since we’re major Disney fans, we got a big kick out of Super Buddies.  Biggie, in fact, has watched the movie every chance he gets!  I will say, though, the alien is a bit freakish, which made my 5 year old wince quite a bit.  Beyond the eye-covering, Super Buddies makes for a fun family movie, and one that everyone giggled and enjoyed.  Does it get any sillier than super hero puppies?  The littles are sure to enjoy this one!

If you love Super Buddies and want to check out a clip before heading out to buy tomorrow, be sure to check out some clips.  While you’re clicking, feel free to grab some fun activities at the below links.

Download Activity Games

Full disclosure:  I was provided with a sample to facilitate this review.  As always, all opinions on NKT are my own.

The First Lady and an All Star Lineup will Headline Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day 2013

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

It’s the end of the summer and one of my favorite events is upon us. The 18th Annual Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day will take place Saturday, August 24 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing, N.Y., from 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. The popular fun festival for both children and adults features games, tennis events and the hottest musical acts. Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day is always a fun way to kick off the 2013 US Open, which runs from August 26 – September 9.

This year’s talent line-up includes:
 · Ariana Grande, who had the breakout single for Republic  Records, “The Way” featuring Mac Miller
 · Fifth Harmony, girl group finalist in the most recent season of X Factor
 · Austin Mahone, rising star who is dubbed as the “Next Justin Bieber” and named as the “Ultimate Breakout Star – Biggest Viral Artist” at the Radio Disney Music Awards
· Coco Jones, who was a finalist on Disney Channel’s “Next Big Thing” and whose video, “Holla at the DJ,” has surpassed 2.2 million YouTube views
 · Lawson, breakout boy band who racked up 4 top ten hits in their native U.K.
 · Cazzette, Swedish DJ duo who is a constant at EDM festivals, making them the only group to have ever play the Ultra Music Festival’s headline stage three times in two years and whose most famous song is “Beam Me Up”
 · World No. 1 Novak Djokovic
 · Reigning US Open champion Serena Williams
 · Greatest tennis player of all-time Roger Federer
 · World No. 1 Wheelchair Tennis Champion David Wagner

And as if that lineup wasn’t impressive enough, the First Lady, Michelle Obama will be onhand for the festivities. The First Lady, who has been a champion of leading healthy lifestyles and encouraging kids to Just Move, is expected to emphasize her message at the athletic event that attracts hundreds of thousands of families from near and far.

Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day will be televised on Sunday, August 25 from noon -1:30pm. In the meantime, feel free to check out my photos from last year’s event! Our family will be onhand to hopefully catch a glimpse of the above stars and to tweet/Instagram live. Follow along at #AAKidsDay


Toddler Teething Relief with Baby Orajel Naturals Teething Tablets and Gel

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

The uncontrollable drooling, the never-ending crankiness, the insatiable desire to use big brother’s arm as a teether: you name it, my younger son has been showcasing all the telltale signs of a teething toddler. Maybe you can relate, but my little guy has been teething, for what seems like, years. I’ve done the frozen washcloths, every kind of fancy teeether, as well as the necklaces—but truly, it never seems to be enough to soothe the teething pain.


Since my one year old is on a cocktail of anti-seizure meds, I try my best to refrain from using any additional medicines, as much as possible. As with my older boy, I’ll always grab for homeopathic or more “natural” methods before administering anything else. It turns out I’m not alone when it comes to relying on homeopathic remedies. According to a study released by IBIS in July 2012, in the past five years global use of homeopathic treatments by adults has increased and is expected to grow through 2017.

And so, with the tot’s most recent teething fun, as luck would have it, we had the chance to try out Baby Orajel Naturals Teething Tablets and Gel to soothe his swollen gums and comfort him as he was cutting his molars.

After studying the label and learning that Baby Orajel Naturals doesn’t include benzocaine, belladonna, dyes, parabens, sugar or sodium lauryl sulfate. Baby Orajel Naturals does not contain belladonna in its tablets and gels, which is an ingredient that’s been associated with undesirable side effects when taken orally. I feel much more comfortable giving my guy Baby Orajel Naturals Teething Tablets and Gel. For my guy, it’s clear that the frozen washcloths just don’t cut it when he’s in so much pain. It’s comforting to know that there are more natural options to get us through these trying times. As for the biting…well, we’re working on that.

According to the makers of Baby Orajel Naturals, there are no expected side effects from this specific line of products. We didn’t notice any side effects after but positive effects following our usage. Baby, who is still fond of giving those juicy open-mouthed kisses, is much more loving and huggi

ng after I gave him Baby Orajel Naturals gel. Of course he resisted, but once I put the gel on his swollen gums he was all smiles from the relief. Unfortunately, he didn’t have the same response when I tried to give him the tablets. He usually spit out the tablets after putting them under his tongue. I imagine the tablets who would work much better for smaller babes that don’t have the ability grab tablets out of their mouth. Nevertheless, I found the gels to be so helpful and comforting for the babe, so I love the fact that Baby Orajel Naturals gives options.

Giveaway

Teething isn’t fun, but thank goodness there are methods for relief, including Baby Orajel Naturals Teething Tablets and Gel.  And since we all need relief especially when it comes to teething, I’m giving away a $50 Target Gift Card. Enter below to grab this prize!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Full disclosure: This post is part of a sponsorship on BabyCenter. I received a free sample of the product for the purpose of this review. As always, all opinions on NKT are my own. I am not a medical professional, so please do not confuse my opinions as medical advice. If you have any questions about teething or your baby’s health, be sure to consult your pediatrician.

This contest ends August 30. Please note: the winner should allow 6 – 8 weeks for delivery after contest has ended.

Back to School with The Children’s Place

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

The Children’s Place, as usual, is making back to school shopping fun and fabulous.  This fall, they’re focusing on modern classics, with lots of color and layering. For the girls, they’ve incorporated floral, leopard and snake skin into key pieces like jeggings.  For boys, graphic tees, athletic wear get a lot of playtime at #PlaceFall.

According to The Children’s Place lead designer, Michael Giannelli,

Back to school comes earlier than past years. The weather is still warm, and we want to ensure our clothing is wear-now appropriate. From our brand you’ll see more short sleeves, shorts, skirts, which will all be in store through September. Kids will have a lot more wear-now options.”

Back to School with The Children's Place

In fact, we picked up a few short-sleeved graphic tees that we love to use as undershirts.  Since fall can be so unpredictable, it’s a given to have a short-sleeved tee underneath.

Even though, baby doesn’t go to school for quite awhile, my absolute favorite piece from our #PlaceFall haul was the robot backpack for the little guy.  Perfect for preschool and totally suitable for throwing the essentials for the day.

Check out our shopping haul video on YouTube to see how “entertained” Biggie was during my explanations. ha!

Full disclosure:  We were provided with a giftcard to facilitate this review.  As always, all opinions on NKT are my own.

TV Tuesday: Updates from Disney Junior, Nickelodeon, PBS Kids and The Hub

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

As we start to get into the back to school groove, the tv industry has been busy gearing up for new seasons, sparkly new shows and the release of a whole new host of characters.
In addition to other weekly features, I’m hoping to start a quick update on Tuesdays with the latest info on new shows and updates surrounding the characters we all know and love.  Here’s a round up of what’s going on in the children’s tv:

Nickelodeon

Just in time for the dog days of summer, there’s a new show on Nickelodeon that focuses on a six pack of rescue pups. Nickelodeon’s new CG-animated preschool series Paw Patrol is where, “no job is too big, no pup is too small.”

The rescue pups, Chase, Marshall, Rocky, Rubble, Zuma and Skye, led by a tech-savvy boy named Ryder, features a curriculum of citizenship, social skills and problem-solving.  To underscore the show’s theme of responsibility and humane treatment of animals, and in conjunction with the Paw Patrol launch, Nickelodeon has partnered with the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals).  Head to Nick Jr.’s site to watch the Paw Patrol trailer, print activity packs

Disney

Doc McStuffins has hit the road with a tricked out Airstream Trailer, dubbed the Doc Mobile.  The hit show emphasizes good health and compassion through stories of a young girl, who cares for her ailing stuffed animals and other toys.

The Doc Mobile features an area for kids to perform a “check-up” on their own toys plus other activities and age-appropriate health and wellness lessons including nutrition and physical development and fitness.  The Doc Mobile makes a stop in NYC tomorrow at the Disney Store in Times Square from 10 am- 4pm

To find out where the Doc Mobile is headed next, check out this link.

Doc McStuffins’ season two premieres on Friday, September 6, with upcoming stars including: Geena Davis, Jeffrey Tambor, Tony Hale, Molly Shannon, Sutton Foster, Amy Sedaris and Peter MacNicol.

PBS

Labor Day is “Neighbor Day” on PBS KIDS with the premiere of an all new episode of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood on Monday, September 2.  In honor of #Neighborday, PBS Kids is offering a free episode download on iTunes.  Be sure to snatch this up before the offer ends on September 3.
And speaking of Daniel Tiger awesomeness, it was recently announced that Daniel Tiger Toys will be at Toys R Us Exclusively next month. These highly anticipated toys are made by JAKKS Pacific, and include plush, playsets and collectible figures featuring the star of the animated TV series, Daniel Tiger, and his friends, Katerina Kittycat, Miss Elaina, Prince Wednesday and O the Owl.

In addition to the toys, other merchandise includes games and puzzles from University Games, books from Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing imprint Simon Spotlight and personalized t-shirts available on Toysrus.com and at Toys“R”Us Times Square through partner Ty’s Toy Box.  Among the initial lineup of toys announced, I’m particularly excited about Neighborhood Trolley with Daniel Tiger figure and Daniel Tiger and friends plush!  I’ll have a more in-depth feature on PBS soon, but I’m super excited about this DT news.

Hub

Over at The Hub, they’re looking beyond back to school and end of summer fun and highlighting Halloween.  The Hub announced that Martha Stewart will appear as the Halloween expert as part of the panel of celebrity judges scheduled to participate in the network’s nationwide costume competition on the “Hub Network’s First Annual Halloween Bash,” to be broadcast Saturday, October 26.

The channel is encouraging viewers to enlist their imagination and creativity for this unique costume contest.  Submissions began Friday, August 16 and 50 semi-finalists representing each state in America will win a trip to Los Angeles to be a part of the two-hour event. One lucky winner will take home $25,000 and will have a chance at a walk-on role on the Hub Network’s Daytime Emmy Award-winning series, “R.L. Stine’s The Haunting Hour: The Series.”
The competition is open to all ages, including individuals or a maximum of five people per group submission. Participants are encouraged to create eye-popping, hair-raising and spooky costumes within one of the following six categories:

·         Howl-arious – Shows the lighter side of Halloween with a take on a fun, funny or otherwise hilarious costume.

·         Spook-tacular – Get ready to frighten America by showcasing the most spine-chilling costume for all the ghosts and ghouls out there.

·         Mad Genius – Unique, original, innovative and never seen before. A knight in
armor fashioned from bottle caps, bat wings made from old umbrellas, or a
cardboard-box jetpack, the possibilities are endless. Display a costume unlike
any other — show your Mad Genius.

·         Blast from the Past – Take a stroll down memory lane with a timeless costume. Memories, nostalgia and yesteryear brought to life. Show your take on great figures from before the 20thcentury or a retro 50’s sock hop get up, 60’s flower child or other “period” inspired costumes.

·         Animal Kingdom – Transform into a living creature from the past or present. Be a roaring lion, a school of jellyfish, a firefly, or a Tyrannosaurus Rex.

·         Everyday Stuff – We’re looking for the coolest refrigerator/freezer, remote control, mailbox, block of Swiss cheese, telephone and more.  Be creative and transform the ordinary into the extra-ordinary.

For more information on the contest check out hubworld.com/Halloween to view a two-minute tutorial detailing complete details and entry information about the nationwide costume competition. The deadline to enter is Sunday, September 29.