
Friday, August 8, 2014
Fisher-Price Little Mommy Play to Night

Thursday, July 10, 2014
Babies R Us My First Doll Rattle
Sunday, July 6, 2014
Wonderworld Flower Stacker

it holds her attention longer than a lot of our other toys...sometimes the simplest toys really are the best. she especially likes to see how many flowers she can stack in one peg before it tips over. it's well-made and i like that it's a different spin on the stacking toys, a cute way to help build fine motor skills.
Lil Characters Unisex-baby Infant Piggy Costume

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I bought this for my 14mnth old daughter. I bought it in the 18mnth size. It looked very adorable, and fit her fine. The problem was after she had the costume on for about 1 hr, mind you she was sitting in her stroller, one of the feet started to detach from the leg of the costume. I could understand if she was rough playing in it, or if it was really tight on her to begin with, but neither of those conditions applied. As stated she was sitting in her stroller. It's a shame, because this costume really was cute on her, and she tolerated the head piece too.Read Best Reviews of Lil Characters Unisex-baby Infant Piggy Costume Here
Is a running joke that my baby girl looks like a piggy and eats like one so what better costume than a piggy? Everyone loved it and no one had ever seen one like it.Want Lil Characters Unisex-baby Infant Piggy Costume Discount?
It's adorable!! The hood fits perfect, but the body is huge. But my lil one has an oversized noggin' so I'm sure that's part of the problem. She is 13mo & we purchased the 12-18mo, so I feel it runs big, but will give plenty of room to layer warmer clothes underneath.Saturday, June 28, 2014
INTEX 58461EP SNAPSET POOL 6' x 15"

The one thing I found is that the vinyl bottom of the pool can be punctured very easily. Despite taking extra precautions, like using a tarp underneath it, I had 2 holes after the first use. The included patch kit made it easy to fix.
The cleanup process is a bit of a pain, so I found that it's easier to just leave it full until it gets really dirty. I purchased pool treatment (chlorine crystals) to 'shock' the pool when first filled, and then to keep it clean after each use. I purchased a cheap $2 plastic 9x12 sheet to use as a pool cover to keep it covered and clean.My son just loves this pool. It's a great size and durable. I have had inflatable pools before and had problems with those, decided to purchase this snapset pool and really like it. It's easy to set up and store, just folds right up.
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I purchased a pool similar to this last summer. Unfortunately, it met the fate of our neighborhood lawn service's weed wacker. Nevertheless, we had so much fun with it, I knew I needed to purchase a new one. We live in a town home community, so I wanted a pool that was compact and not too big. This pool certainly meets that criteria. It's inexpensive, too. You need to have the pool filled almost to the top to really stabilize the sides. Also, if your lawn is naturally at a slant, you can expect the pool water to fill a bit unevenly. The diameter of this pool is great for 2-3 adults or about 4 young children. It's great summer time fun!Read Best Reviews of INTEX 58461EP SNAPSET POOL 6' x 15" Here
This is a great kids pool! It is easy to fill, and is extreemly easy to empty and store. Used it all summer, did not tear or leak. I think this is simly a great product! The weight of the water inside the pool actually holds up the sides. The sides do not stand up unless the pool is full. I would definitely try it before I threw it away. I have two small children and we have had one every year for the past four summers. lots of fun.Thursday, June 5, 2014
Elmo Infant Plush Costume

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I bought this for my son for Halloween. It was perfect fit, true to size, and is very durable. It is heavier weight, than most costumes, I've seen. Which is perfect for Halloween in New Hampshire.My 2 1/2 year old loved his costume! It's warm and durable. Very soft and cuddly. On occasion he refused to leave the house without putting it on. I definitely recommend this costume. The only drawback was the red pieces of fuzz that appeared on my light colored carpet. This costume is fitted enough that aside from form fitting pajamas (top and bottom), you don't really need to wear anything underneath.I originally ordered the 2T for my 2yr old grandson, but it turned out too small. Re-ordered the next size up, 3T-4T, and it fit fine. Everyone thought he was adorable and the outfit kept him warm while they were out and about that evening.Wednesday, June 4, 2014
Whoozit Zigzaggles

Wednesday, May 21, 2014
"Raspberry" Rattle Teddy Bear 9"

Thursday, May 8, 2014
Tolo Activity Stackers

Ideal for use in the bath or pool
Clear cup is a magnifying glass!
Water wheel sits in the corners of the largest cup to keep it secure during play
Textured, contrasting rims for additional grip
Different sized holes at the bottom of each cup allow the water to pour through in a variety of ways!
Fit the eyes with the cut outs and a number of funny faces can be made!
Encourages dexterity and hand eye co-ordination.
Fun for younger and older children.
Thursday, May 1, 2014
Taggies Owl Clock
Tuesday, April 29, 2014
Melissa & Doug Rainbow Stacker

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This is a good basic addition to any toddler's toy collection. We like it because:It's wood. The rings make a satisfying "clink" that plastic or cloth stacking rings lack.
It's easy for kids to do. We've had other stacking toys (like the Melissa & Doug stacking train) where certain pieces only fit in certain places, and that is frustrating for little ones just figuring out how things work. This one's simple and straight-forward.
It's inexpensive.
My older son received this when he was about 18 months and played with it quite a bit. Now his younger brother enjoys it, and has been able to put the rings on & off since about 12 months.
(Just a warning: the stick, or "ring holder" as we call it, often gets banged around like a hammer in our house this is partly why they like this toy so much, but it means close supervision is necessary!)
Read Best Reviews of Melissa & Doug Rainbow Stacker Here
The top piece, the blue one pictured, is small enough to be a choking hazard. Just FYI. We removed that piece and threw it away.Also, the pole and the hole are small requiring really really good fine motor skills. For babies just learning this skill look for bigger poles and holes otherwise, it's really hard for them to do this one.
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Back before I actually had a kid, when I was insisting on natural materials only, I ordered the Melissa & Doug Rainbow Stacker, even though I'm not a fan of M&D toys as a rule (I find many of them to be cheaply made).We got the classic Fisher-Price Rock-A-Stack as a gift when Jackson was born, and I remember scoffing a little. "Plastic! Look at this silly thing with the ridiculous foil shiny thing inside the top ring. They couldn't even make it a real rainbow, they ruined it putting those dumb little balls in the top half of the red ring. And why does it rock?! What kind of ridiculous popcorn-button-on-the-microwave unnecessary extra feature is that?"
Of course, six months later, the Rock-a-Stack is the undefeated champion of playtime, and the Rainbow Stacker sits unused in the closet. Jackson loves the balls in the red ring, he likes to make it rock, he can actually get the rings off and play with them, and I don't worry one bit when he teethes on the fat, squat, yellow ring-holder-thingy in the middle.
The rings on the M&D stacker, on the other hand, are heavy and hard for him to lift and manipulate, the red ball rolls away (and reminds me of a scary clown nose), and I'm always worried he's going to gag himself when he tries to chew on the tall, skinny wooden stick in the middle.
The Rainbow Stacker might be a great toy for a three-year-old, but it's not a good fit for my baby at this stage.
Saturday, April 26, 2014
Peek-a-Boo

Tuesday, April 15, 2014
North American Bear Company - Satin Ears Bear Rattle

Sunday, April 13, 2014
Fisher-Price Grow with Me Sit-to-Stand Scooter - Blue

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We originally put this together as the seated toy and our daughter didn't like it, the next day we changed it to a scooter and she & her friends ride all the time. She took a couple lessons on how to use one leg to push & hasn't looked back since. We've had it for 3 months, no problems with durability thus far. Good buy for the price, 2 wheels in the front make it easier to steer, wide foot board is great for a beginning rider. I would buy this again & recommend.Read Best Reviews of Fisher-Price Grow with Me Sit-to-Stand Scooter - Blue Here
Scooter requires dis-assembly to convert. This process is not difficult nor time consuming, however it is annoying. A child may first want to sit, then quickly use it as a scooter. A quick turnaround is simply impossible, as the unit has to be taken apart from one stage and re-assembled in the other. The overall quality of construction appears to be sturdy and able to stand up to the abuse posed by children. The conversion is easy but something that requires a screwdriver and several minutes not a two minute turn, Annoying for both the parent and child.Want Fisher-Price Grow with Me Sit-to-Stand Scooter - Blue Discount?
I read the other reviews when deciding between this product and a skateboard/scooter combo for my 2 yr. old son. One of the reviews I read said that the "trike" option was pretty lame because it was awkward and too small to effectively ride around on. My son is really short so I thought that he wouldn't have a problem riding it as a trike. I was wrong. As a trike, it's to low to the ground so kids can't really scoot around on it. We changed it to the scooter within an hour. As a scooter, my son loves it! I was really wanting something that he could grow with and that was a little more versatile. I should have gone with the scooter that becomes a skateboard.Tuesday, April 1, 2014
Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Sing-with-Me CD Player

This is a cute toy, and my son enjoys dancing to the songs--after I press a button 2-3 times to get THROUGH the noises and TO a song... He is also at the stage where he loves putting things in/taking them out, so he is entertained. I just don't see this having a lot of return play since the in/out phase won't last for too long, and he'll be moving on to other skills soon.
I had no problem paying fifteen bucks for the toy when I thought it worked as stated above, but I now feel ripped off after seeing how the toy actually works.
The FIsher Price Laugh and Learn Sing with Me CD player is a bit of misleading since it doesn't play CDs. However, it does offer plenty of fun nursery rhymes, colorful flights, and small plastic discs (that are supposed to be the cds). Our daughter started playing with her player when she was younger than 6 months and she still loves playing with it now that she is two. Initially, she just liked the songs and blinking lights then she advanced to trying to put the CDs into the player and now -she likes to sing-along with songs.
A few other notes
The CDS don't actually play they are just plastic discs
variable volume settings
Songs about the ABC's, 123's, and nursery rhymes
The door opens and the players sings "oooppppennn" and then you close it and it sings "Clooossssed"
Very easy to use our daughter was able to figure it before she was 6 months old
Final Verdict One our daughter's favorites it has helped our daughter develop motor skills (putting the CDs into the player it is amazing how much she enjoys doing this) plus all of the fun music. It makes a perfect present for your favorite young boy or girl.
5 Stars
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My son absolutely loves this toy! He loves music and it's his new favorite! He loves putting the "CDs" in the slot and in the front door too. He likes all the noises and sounds it makes and has no problem getting the music to play all by himself. It plays all the songs without the "CDs" which is a plus because the "CDs" get lost easily under furniture, etc. since they are small and flat.Read Best Reviews of Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Sing-with-Me CD Player Here
I got this for my daughter not really knowing if she would like it. It is always hit and miss with her. We've purchased some expensive toys that she has glanced at once then walked awaywhat a waste. This was not the case for this little toy. She loves it. I think there is just so much cause and effect learning in it which is why she is drawn to it. The buttons play different noises each time you hit them with enough of a cycle not to get bored. You can open and close the front and put cd's in 2 different ways. It has gone to the beach with us and we bring it everywhere. She loves it. There are about 6 different songs it plays.Want Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Sing-with-Me CD Player Discount?
My son loves this toy. He's 6 months and he just has to smack the thing to get it to make noise/music which makes him happy. He plays with it all by himself.The raison d'etre of my review, however, is that Fisher Price changed the lyrics to Jack & Jill! Instead of going up the hill to fetch a pail of water, they "go looking for some color" and then they find a yellow sun. WTF!?! Are the PC-nazis dictating changes to nursery rhymes? Falling down the hill was too violent?! All nursery rhymes and stories are violent! Humpty-dumpty, snow white, hansel and gretel to name a few. Ridiculous. I am aghast. Aghast!
Friday, March 28, 2014
Original Activity Walker - Supports Those First Steps
Friday, March 14, 2014
Italtrike La Cosa Ride-On

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Great drivability, soft wheels don't mark the floors and make it very easy for even the littlest legs to maneuver.Absolutely recommended for preschools, home and birthday gifts. We have 4 and love them!
Also, the seat cover is removable and the kids love to store their little treasures inside.
Easy to clean, and they're stackable!
Thursday, February 20, 2014
Manhattan Toy Dress Up

PROS:
~ Adorable from top-to-toe! He has a really cute face, an attractive & colorful outfit, & the eye-patch & the parrot are nice touches, too.
~ Well-made, mostly (Please read the list of "CONS" for further info).
~ The selection of fabrics look AND feel great.
~ The snap & button work well, & the pocket with the button is a real, usable pocket.
Adorable? Yes...no doubt about it.
Interesting to my child? Nope...chalk up one FAIL for the parents, but there are other, more tangible issues to be aware of.
CONS:
~ About the "mostly" part regarding how well made the toy is, here's the deal...THE BUCKLE. It only LOOKS like a buckle; it performs in no way like one would expect a buckle should. It's an over-the-shoulder strap with a faux, plastic, non-buckling buckle, with a tiny square of Velcro (or "fabric fastener" as they must have to call it) located on the underside of the strap. Educational? Barely. It's been used maybe three times, and the stitching along all but one side of the Velcro square is gone. It's now a flap of Velcro rather than a patch. Having said that, the rest of it is so well made, I have to believe this might be a fluke.
~ It's way more petite than I thought it would be. There's not much to work with, really.
~ The zipper shoe is only 1 1/2" long.
~ The laces -that can't be used to laceare only 4" long, thick, & awkward with which to work.
~ I don't get the purpose for the dagger other than decoration. It's attached to the inside bottom of the pocket with a thick piece of elastic so when you try to pull the dagger out, the pocket gets all scrunched-up.
We'll keep it because we have a "thing" for pirates, and it's a really cute doll that looks good on the shelf.I bought this for Chirstmas for my then almost 3 yr old and he liked it. After nearly a year his "friend" has gone many places with us but my son has shown little interest in dressing or undressing the pirate to he really seems to be just a friend. He might be too young for that just yet as he doesn't button his own clothes but he does know how to dress himself for the most part. I can't say the doll helped teach him anything though but again, he is happy to have a pirate friend to adventure with.
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We have a similar toy in the shape of a colorful hound dog--both made by Manhattan baby. In contrasting the two toys, the hound is much better made and presents easier to manipulate "skill stations."As an example, the pirate's boot zipper is difficult for an adult to use, the shoe lacing on the other boot requires a very careful tying due to the provided length; ours, also, came with a flaw in the cording.
The pirate's sword resembles an ice cream cone and reinserting it in the sheath is going to require the help of an older sibling. A soft pirate's map would be my suggestion. The hound's pockets are generous and stitched/ constructed with a more substantial fabric. If your young toddler is able to successfully button the Pirate's pocket, start their college engineer fund immediately and forgo preschool. The hound has a button twice the size and an opening with forgiveness for beginners.
The pirate's gloves are not removable and unlike the hound, he is sans pants. He has an adorable belly-button.
I also wish his hat (the closure could velcro) was replaceable to enable a young child to practice dressing from the top down. He could sport hair the child could comb. The pirate has a elegant parrot with an interior rattle--but most 18+ months are so beyond rattles.
Mr. Pirate is a cute doll, overpriced for the educational component, and could be improved to incorporate many features found in their hound version.My son was 19 months old when we bought this toy. It is by far the cutest one we found for boys. It really was adorable which appealed to me. He loved the toy, loves to un-snap and un-zip it. I also likes to take the sword out, and since it's on a short piece of elastic it just pops back in the pocket. He totes his "Captian Jack" all over. I would recommend this dress up toy!This was Grandma's 1st doll purchase for my one year old granddaughter's First Birthday. We've already named her Mary. If you are looking for soft, cuddly, and a learning opportunity with buttons, shoes, zippers, etc, this is perfect.
Thursday, January 9, 2014
Baby Einstein Caterpillar and Friends Play Gym

The movement-activated star that lights and sounds.
The variety of toys.
The print of the mat combining real images and illustrations.
You can attach toys to the mat, not just the arcs above the baby.
We don't like that much, but tolerate:
Polyester fabric is too... "slick" so baby can't gain traction during tummy time in order to crawl.
Rings for hanging toys are not enough. Some of the toys would be too high so we got some extra rings and used then to also hang other soft toys we had. You could get the Bright Starts Lots of Links.
Hope my review helps you.I like this little gym, but I do have a few complaints about it. I'll start with what I like.
Pros:
* Very bright and cheerful
* Toys are cute and interesting
* Has a small footprint
* Easy to assemble
* I like the music on the Star
Cons:
* It's smaller than I would have liked
* I was afraid the Star that blinks and plays music would give my daughter a stroke. The blinking light was so fast and crazy it scared her, so when we use it, we lay it face down on the floor, which negates half of its purpose
* The material is very slippery, so when my daughter started rolling, she would slip around and then get caught up on the arms
My biggest complaint is the Star and how fast it blinks. Had I known this before I spent the money on it, I would not have purchased this item.
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This playmat is great, and the reason is the light-up musical star. My seven-week old daughter smiles and even coos everytime I lay her down on the playmat and turn the star on during her activity time. It is so cute.Read Best Reviews of Baby Einstein Caterpillar and Friends Play Gym Here
I really like this play gym so far. We just got it two weeks ago for my daughter who is now 11 weeks old and she seems to like it so far. The toys that come with it are very good, some even labeled in multiple languages (English, Spanish, French) to help when your baby is old enough to identify shapes. The theme of the mat is garden/outdoors but most of the images are based on basic shapes (circle, square and triangle) so your baby can identify them there too. I really like this mat above others I have seen because many of the images are "real life" images that look like photographs rather than the cutesy cartoon drawn images on many mats. This will help my little one connect to how things look in real life as well. The colors on this mat are brighter which I think stimulates better than pastel colors.Since my daughter is so small still, I traded out some of the toys that came with it (the teether leaf and some of the hard hanging toys) for some softer toys we already own until she is bigger. I gave it 4 stars only because I am concerned the fabric for the mat may be too slick for my daughter to get enough traction to pull up when in tummy timefurther use may prove this wrong.
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I bought this gym for our third baby with a gift card someone gave me because our older Baby Einstein gym was worn out after being LOVED by 2 kids. I am so disappointed we loved the original, but this one has some huge flaws, mainly in the setup. Since the bars do not cross, the gym doesn't just "pop" open when you put it down, so you have to use two hands to set it up (which is not easy to do when you're holding a baby at the same time). It also doesn't lie flat; the edges of the mat curl up against the bars because the clips are so far underneath. Also the toys are huge and made of hard plastic, so they hang down low (even from the top rings, the dog and frog practically hit my baby's head). Lastly, there is no support pillow with this one for tummy time. Unfortunately we washed the mat before we set it up, so there's no way for us to return the gym for a better one.Wednesday, January 1, 2014
Viva Clutching Toy

Though Haba does outsource some of its manufacturing to China, this one is made in Germany, which means very stringent laws regarding use of non-toxic materials. Overall: another great quality toy by Haba!
UPDATE: After my son has been playing with this toy on an almost daily basis for about 6-8 weeks now (which by now includes dropping toys from his high chair), I discovered today that one of the blue wooden links had broken in half. The toy is still playable, and it does not look like he can hurt himself, yet that is something that I had not expected and should not happen. I will let him continue to play with this toy, but will contact Haba about this...