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Spring Cleaning Favorites!

Written by Chirpy Mama in Uncategorized

For most parents, the arrival of spring brings a much needed, long overdue change in not only the seasons, but a shift in parenting. Kids want to play outside without the need for endless winter gear? Sure! Need to get some fresh air without adding layers or cranking up the heat? Throw open those windows moms and dads! However, with spring often comes that inevitable “where did all this junk come from?!” inner dialogue, as you gaze upon the winter’s accumulation of…STUFF. If you’re looking to clean up and organize your space for the warm and sunny months ahead, fear not parents! I’ve rounded up a few of my favorite organization products for all of your spring cleaning that will have your space tidied up in no time!

Magnetic Picture Hanging Kit

If you’re like me, your little Picasso probably brings home a LOT of artwork from school and can’t wait to find a prime location to hang his/her little work of art. If your refrigerator can’t possibly accommodate another piece of paper, this magnetic picture hanging kit is the perfect solution that will fit right  into any home’s decor! Each kit comes with lots of magnets that make it easy for your child to hang up their masterpiece wherever they like on the streamlined magnetic cords, and you’ll love the ability to easily swap out whenever the desire strikes!

Closet Maid Kid Space 2 Tier Shelving Unit

OK, I get it…there’s nothing inherently exciting about shelving units, but hear me out on this one! This affordable, durable shelving unit not only has multi-size storage areas to tidy up your kid’s toys, but it’s architectural shelving makes it looks much more expensive than it really is! I originally purchased one and was so impressed that I ordered a second! Now my daughter’s toys have a place off the floor, and her play area still manages to look chic…or as chic as any area can look when covered in unicorns, glitter, and all things princess!

Stuffed Animal Storage Net

If your child is anything like my daughter, stuffed animal dolls are *everything*. This powerful over the door mesh storage net holds a SHOCKINGLY large amount of stuffed animals, and somehow manages to still lay somewhat flat against your door surface! The soft netting allows your child easy access to whatever doll they desire, and ensures your floor stays (somewhat) tidy.

Lusso Travel Tray Organizer for Car Seats

This brilliant tray organizer attaches to your car seat to provide your child with endless opportunities for engagement and entertainment during those long car rides. With a spot for dolls, drinks, snacks, and an iPad, this mighty little product also comes with a built in whiteboard for endless drawing possibilities. It comes in multiple colors/patterns (I have the unicorns, because *obviously*), but it’s sure to please no matter what design you choose!

Unicorn Magic: The Ultimate Guide to All Things Unicorn

Written by Chirpy Mama in Mealtime Gear and Accessories,Playtime,Toddler toys and activities,Uncategorized

 

Is your little one as utterly obsessed with unicorns as my daughter is (case in point, please refer to the picture of my daughter riding a *real* unicorn, aka the best day of her life)? If your child, like mine, can’t get enough of the magical little ponies, then this post is for you! I’ve rounded up an exhaustive list of all-things-unicorn related that is sure to please, and is inclusive of all price ranges so you can be sure to please this holiday season!

 

 

 

 

Unicorn Comforter Set

This is the exact set that I bought for my daughter’s room when she upgraded from a toddler bed to a “big girl” full size bed, and almost 2 years later, I’m happy to say that it has held up beautifully and is the perfect “weight” to keep you cool enough in the summer, yet nice and toasty warm in the winter. Despite the inevitable 9475 washings/dryings, the color has stayed vibrant, *and* the best part is that it’s reversible (the other side is a plain purple pattern), so it’s like getting a 2-for-1 that she can enjoy for years to come.

Barbie Dreamtopia Magical Unicorn

Combining Barbie with unicorns is basically a no-brainer, genius combination, and this set definitely does not disappoint! This *magical* set comes with a Barbie and her unicorn, which lights up up when you pet it and makes real life chomping sounds when you feed it the ice cream cone that it comes with. Both the doll and the unicorn are covered in rainbows, which is sure to both delight your little one and create endless hours of imaginative play! I gave this to my daughter for her birthday and she plays with it almost everyday, and loves introducing her unicorn to her other horses to show them how “magical” she is!

Uni the Unicorn book series

This series, by author Amy Krouse Rosenthal, is a beautifully written story about the power of make believe, and the ability to make your dreams come true. The book I’ve linked is the original, but with lots of other books in the series to choose from (Uni Bakes a Cake, Uni and the Perfect Present, Uni in the Real World, Uni Goes to School…the list goes on and on), you’re sure to find a subject matter that will entertain your little one!

Unicorn Dig Kit

This unicorn dig kit was given to my daughter from one of her preschool friends as a birthday present, and when I say it was a big hit, I mean I have been scouring ever since for similar items! The tools this beautiful little kit comes with helps her practice her fine motor skills while she gets to retrieve 12 sparkly charms, and a bonus necklace with a unicorn charm! All that chipping away can get a little messy, so definitely plan to do this one either outside, or on a surface you can easily wipe and wash.

My Little Pony Sunny Star Scout Sing and Skate

Let’s face it, it wouldn’t be a post about unicorns if it didn’t include a My Little Pony reference, and this toy from the New Generation series is fantastic! Sunny Star Scout “magically” sings and skates in all different directions, which is controlled by your little one via the microphone. My daughter loves to sing into the microphone along to the pre-programmed songs, and is fascinated how a simple flick of the wrist makes Sunny move directions, or even twirl in circles!

Giant Unicorn Squishy Stuffed Animal

What is it with kids and squishmallow-ey stuffed animals? If your little one is as obsessed as mine is, they will love this giant unicorn plush. Need a little more room on their bed? This doll also comes in 2 smaller sizes, so you can choose a size to fit your little’s one bed, and they can get their bedtime squeezes in with this sweet little softie.

Bentgo Unicorn Reusable Ice Packs

If your child is anything like my daughter, unicorns are *life*, and as such, she can’t POSSIBLY go anywhere with at least some form of unicorn representation! Insert these adorable little reusable ice packs from the trusted Bentgo brand. Arriving as a 4 pack, these are perfect for popping in your little one’s lunchbox, or using as an on the go cooling option for those long road trips, etc. My daughter takes these in her lunchbox to preschool and everyday when she comes home, these little powerhouse ice packs are still cold!

Bon Voyage! Toddler Travel Tips

Written by Chirpy Mama in Mealtime Gear and Accessories,Toddler Accessories,Toddler toys and activities,Uncategorized

Traveling with a toddler can feel daunting at best. Between airport chaos, enormous baggage fees, rental car seats deemed questionable at best, and the endless “how can I bring all this STUFF” questions, sometimes it can seem easier to just stay home. But fear not parents! I have some tried and tested tips for traveling with a toddler that can not only make your trip easier, but more fun for everyone!

Ride Safer Travel Vest

Traveling with a baby necessitates having to travel with a full-on car seat, but what to do when your little one gets a little older and you don’t want to lug a giant car seat on your travels? Enter this magical, wonderful solution called the Ride Safer Vest! Offered in several size options, this miracle product folds up super small in it’s own container, takes about 3 minutes to install, and best of all, can be left in the seat for easy in-and-outs of the car while you’re traveling. I literally installed it for the very first time into our rental car after getting about 3 hours of sleep courtesy of a transatlantic redeye flight, and it could not have been easier (see pic above)! Our daughter was perfectly comfortable and was even able to take naps during some longer car rides/late night trips back home. Each size vest lasts for about 20 pounds of your child’s weight gain, so while it may be pricy, you’ll definitely get your money’s worth over the years! Hands down, this is my #1 recommendation for traveling with a little one!

Bentgo Kids Bento Lunchbox

Let’s face it: snacks are the answer to 99% of life’s toddler questions!  Traveling is no exception to that, especially when faced with insanely high airport food prices and questionable in-flight meals. This Bentgo bento box is not only a lifesaver, but it makes snack time on the plane fun for kids when they get to choose from 5 different shaped snack sections. Fill it up with your little one’s favorite treats and shove it in your carryon for meltdowns; it’s guaranteed not to leak or spill, and small enough to easily fit on the seat-back fold down tray. Bonus: when you’re back from your travels, this is a fantastic daily lunch box for school!

Writing Tablet Doodle Board

If your little Picasso can’t imagine not being able to draw for a few hours, this is the perfect solution! With vivid colors, a stay-put pen that securely attaches to the screen, and endless possibilities for creativity to flow, this slim, weightless product is a no-brainer to throw in your carryon when you want your kid to take a break from their iPad.

SnugPlay+ Kids Headphones with Volume Control

My daughter spent endless hours on the airplane watching and re-watching her favorite shows and Disney movies, but let’s face it: nobody other than her on that flight wanted to hear Frozen on a loop! These headphones, available in a gazillion colors, are super comfortable, adjustable for a little kid’s head, and have volume controls to ensure “Let It Go” isn’t blasting into her tiny little eardrums. Best of all, the earphones fold into themselves, making tossing them into the carryon bag a breeze!

Lego Disney Storybook Set

OK, ok…I know what you’re thinking: “Legos?! ON A PLANE?!” Hear me out! These genius little “storybooks” were a last minute find prior to our return flight home that made me regret not having it sooner! Each adorable little “book” closes shut with all the pieces neatly contained inside, which means easy cleanup and quick temporary storage fixes should you hit turbulence, need to close your tray table for meals, etc.  My daughter loved this Frozen one, but they come in tons of different character options to satisfy your little one’s favorite theme!

Melissa and Doug Reusable Puffy Sticker Set

Reusable stickers are one of those activities that are often overlooked, but then you use them and think to yourself “why didn’t I think of this sooner?” These cute puffy adhesives provides for lots of creative scenes, and are offered in a wide array of themes to keep your little one entertained. Mix and match for some silly fun!

Crayola Wonder Mess Free Coloring

If there’s one thing kids love, it’s finding a way to make a mess. Foil even their best efforts with these magic color wonder mess free coloring books! The special “magic” markers only show up on the special paper, so no need to worry about little Mary or Bobby practicing how to write their name on the side of the plane wall! Leave it to Crayola to offer a dizzying array of coloring book themes and characters, and you’ll be able to rest easy when your little ones demands to color mid flight!

One final note: what you *won’t* see in this list are the endless options for various blow up pillows/travel-on suitcases, etc. While some parents swear by them, it’s an unnecessary headache waiting to happen in my opinion. Most airlines explicitly prohibit them, which means you have to “break the rules” and be sneaky when inflating them in-flight, only to hope the flight attendant doesn’t catch you. More importantly, kids don’t really *need* them; toddlers have a way of making ANYTHING into a comfy place to rest, so mom or dad’s carryon, a small pillow, and a blanket=bedtime on a plane. The proof? Please see my most recent transatlantic flight with my (very tall!)4 year old:

Bon voyage!

April Showers: The Very Best Rainy Day Toddler Activities

Written by Chirpy Mama in Playtime,Toddler toys and activities

April showers may bring May flowers, but they can also usher long days filled with endless toddler cries of “I’m bored!” and “mommy mommy mommy mommy“-esque pleas for entertainment.  Unless a marathon of Disney movies is in the cards (which, no judgment…we have *all* been there!), you’ll probably want to break up the day with some fun, low maintenance, inexpensive activities that will not only entertain your toddler on rainy days, but for many years to come! Your little one will get some sensory stimulation, and you, mom and dad, will (hopefully) get a few blissful minutes of uninterrupted play time.  Here’s my tried and tested roundup of the very best rainy day toddler activities:

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Sensory bins are easy to make (or so I’ve been told by my more, ahem, “creative” minded parent friends), but let’s face it: as a busy working mom, I just don’t have the creativity/time/inclination to make my own sensory bin. Enter Creativity For Kids, who had the genius idea to create PRE-MADE sensory bins in a whopping EIGHT different themes to choose from! Whether your toddler wants the Outer Space Kit, the Dinosaur Adventure, the Ice Cream Shop, and Ocean and Sand kit, or any of the other wildly entertaining options, this brand has you covered! Just dump all of the enclosed materials/toys into the  larger bin, and then sit back and let your toddler spend HOURS working on their sensory play, fine motor skills, imaginary play, and so much more! The sand component is actually more of a kinetic, magnetic sand, so fear not moms and dads who hear the word “sand” and “indoors” and immediately start sweating!  Best of all, when they’re all done playing, you just put the lid on the bin and it’s ready for next time!

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It would not be an exaggeration to say that, of all the toys my 3.5 year old has EVER received, *this* Battat Big Red Farm Animal Playset might just be in the top 3 rotation for 2+ years and counting! This was gifted to us when she was about 1 year old and she has consistently played with it at least every other day, if not every day! Battat is a trusted, family owned brand since 1897 and this sweet little farm house encompasses HOURS of imaginative fun! The barn itself opens up to reveal working doors and animal pens, and also comes with a set of cute little animals and a farmer, though we like to also subsidize with whatever other animals we have lying around (an alligator and a baby shark in a farm, anyone?). The possibilities are endless, and at under $25, this economical powerhouse will have you wondering what took you so long to buy it in the first place!

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PlayDoh has been a fan favorite for rainy day toddler activities for years, but for parents, that can also mean trying to find a place for all of those cute little cutout shapes, rolling pins, scissors, and various accessories…not to mention finding a surface for your little artist to actually put the PlayDoh on, lest you not want your couch cushions ruined. Again. Enter this brilliant little product! Serving as a storage center AND a surface space, this all in one table comes with PlayDoh *and* lots of shape cutouts and accessories. Consider it a PlayDoh “hub” where little ones can play and create to their heart’s content, then when they’re done, everything fits neatly into the two storage bins on either side. Genius, affordable, and sure to bring your toddler hours of fun for years to come!

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My daughter was given this for her 1st birthday, and at 3.5 years old now with her very own Barbie Dreamhouse, she STILL makes time to play with this charming little house! Part of the Fisher Price Little People series, this Surprise and Sounds Home is endless entertaining and engaging with it’s realistic home sounds (toilet flushing, radio music, oven dings, etc.), and it’s working window shades and doors. It has a portable handle at the top and closes for easy storage, and will provide hours of imaginary house play! My daughter likes to use her Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and Daniel Tiger figurines to mix and match with the Little People, but your child can subsidize with whatever their favorite characters are as well for continued fun even as (cartoon) tastes change!

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Every little artist deserves a big beautiful canvas to create their masterpieces on, but let’s face it: when it comes to toddlers, they can be pretty savage when it comes to paint and crayons. This HUGE mat allows kids to create colors and shapes and stencil drawings to their little heart’s content, and the best part is that it’s all just water! No worrying about stains, accidental wall painting, or stubborn washable paint that has to be scrubbed off little hands that do not want to be washed! When your little Picasso is done, just let the mat dry off, then fold it up until it’s time to paint again. No mess, no fuss, and the fastest art-project clean up you’ll ever have!

Dry Nights: The Very Best Overnight Diapers, Pull-Ups, and Bedding

Written by Chirpy Mama in Baby Sleeping,Diapering

Every parent  knows this scenario all too well: you’re fast asleep, peacefully basking in the accomplishment of having successfully put your child to sleep with a minimal amount of the inevitable nighttime meltdowns. After all the “just one more story please!” and “but I’m thirsty!” ploys to extend bedtime, he/she is finally sleeping soundly until it happens: THE ACCIDENT. Your little one wakes up in a puddle of urine, and you, mom and dad, have to not only get your little one dried, changed, and calmed down, but you now also have to change their bedding. In the middle of the night. While I can’t do anything about your little one’s bladder control, I can provide you with this roundup of the very best overnight diapers, pull-ups, and bedding that will keep your child dry all night and ensure you *both* have a restful night.

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Huggies Pull-Ups For Night-time are extra absorbent to ensure a full 12 hours of leak-free rest. Personally speaking, I’ve found these are best for “average” bedwetters, so if your little one isn’t drinking too many fluids before bedtime, these are a great solution. Made for both boys and girls, these easy on/off pull-ups come with cute characters your little one knows and loves, and the easy velcro tabs ensure a quick change. For parents with heavy bedwetters, I personally recommend the
Goodnite Overnight Pull-ups (more on those below). 

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Sposie nighttime pads are an extra layer of protection for those heavy bedwetters who also happen to be extra active when sleeping. The ultra-soft pads work by “doubling” the absorbency of your child’s diaper, giving you both the uninterrupted sleep you deserve. These booster pads are dermatologist and pediatrician tested, hypoallergenic certified, and completely free of fragrance, latex, chlorine, and phthalates. Best of all, they work with any brand of diaper, pull-up, or underwear!

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From the trusted Pampers brand, these Ninjamas Nighttime Underwear are geared for the older toddler since the small size starts at 38lbs. The heavy hitting pull-ups have a built-in odor mask technology that activates when accidents occur to help conquer smells, so kids can wake up feeling great each day. Ninjamas are also uniquely designed for kids with a Form-Fit waistband that flexes for a sleek, underwear-like fit. These super stealthy nighttime pull-ups discreetly fit around your child’s waist and sides and provides breathable comfort, just like cotton underwear!

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The favorite in our house, Goodnites is a trusted brand that comes in a variety of sizes to keep your toddler dry overnight. This powerhouse pull-up ensures a leak-free night for even the heaviest of bedwetters. Tried and tested by thousands of moms, (including me!), these pull-ups can withhold a tremendous amount of liquid, perfect for when your little one drinks a tad too much water before bed! Coming in lots of sizes for children of all ages, these are perfect for potty training, as well as those long car/train/plane rides with questionable bathroom solutions! In my opinion, these narrowly rank above the others as being the best overnight pull-ups.

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Even with the very best overnight pull-up or diaper, the occasional leak is bound to happen. Fear not moms and dads, these bedwetting pads from Mighty Monkey are the perfect remedy! Simply add this on top of your child’s sheet and should an accident happen, only the pad gets wet, sparing the sheet underneath and keeping the rest of the bedding dry. Pro tip: buy 2 so in the event of an overnight accident, you can remove the wet one and just replace with the dry one, saving yourself time and cleanup during the precious overnight hours!

Squeaky Clean: The Very Best Bubble Bath Time Products For Toddlers

Written by Chirpy Mama in Clothes, Shoes, and Accessories,Toddler bathtime

Bath time with a toddler is a whole different ballgame from the days of infancy when they were gently washed down in a confined infant tub. The switch to mom and dad’s “grown up” bathtub provides all sorts of opportunity for bath time fun, from new toys to splash around with to the sensory overload of bubbles galore! For parents, it often leads to another question: what are the best products to use now that you no longer need to worry about delicate infant skin? Here’s a roundup of the very best toddler bubble bath products that will leave them squeaky clean!

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This organic, natural bubble bath from the trusted Honest brand of products is paraben free, sulfate free, and dye free, and is ethically made without the use of animal testing. The dreamy lavender scent will calm even the most active of toddlers, and parents can enjoy the fact that the fragrance is made from all natural essential oils with no synthetic fragrances.

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The current favorite in our house, this is our choice for the best toddler bubble bath product! It’s free of parabens, sulfates, phthalates, SLS, artificial coloring, artificial fragrance, mineral oil, AND it’s vegan and cruelty free. Did I mention the smell? It’s INCREDIBLE. If your little one isn’t a fan of Strawberry Coconut, it also comes in  several other scents sure to appeal to everyone’s olfactory preferences. One capful from this enormous bottle produces a massive amount of bubbles, so you can ensure you’re getting your money’s worth! Best of all, proceeds from Alaffia go directly towards the empowerment and enrichment of women in West Africa, so you can feel good about your purchase AND your bubble bath.

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Babo Botanicals is known for their all natural, organic, cruelty free products, and this 2-in-1 bubble bath and wash doesn’t disappoint! Free of gluten, sulfates, parabens, phthalates, formaldehyde, soy, dairy, mineral oil, and synthetic fragrance (phew! Got all that?), this bubble bath and wash provides a luxurious bath experience for anyone! The creamy bubbles are a frothy dream, and parents will love the calming natural oils…perfect for pre-nap baths!

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My daughter’s hair is thin and curly, which translates to “big giant knotted mess” when bath time rolls around. Enter Cantu Cares Conditioning Detangler! This *miracle* spray is a blend of all natural shea butter, coconut oil, honey, and unicorn fairy dust. OK, that last part is a joke, but this stuff is MAGICAL! A few spritz’s of this delicious smelling spray on post-bath wet hair and your comb will be gliding thru the tangled hair with ease.

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This gentle, non-greasy detangler leaves fine, knotted hair conditioned and well-nourished with it’s blend of naturally derived ingredients. The subtle coconut smell will transport you to a Caribbean island, until the inevitable whining of your little one pulls you right back to the reality of your bathroom! Pro tip: toss one of these in your beach/pool bag for those post swim messy hair-do’s.