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Valentine’s Gift Ideas for the Kids!

February 12, 2018 By Leave a Comment

 

Here are some great ideas for the Kids!

This plush animal is too cute!

PBS KIDS continues its multi-year partnership with Whole Foods Market with a variety of toys, including a new line of sustainable, educational wooden toys for children. Part of a new licensing partnership between PBS KIDS and Maxim Enterprise, Inc., the new collection of PBS KIDS EverEarth products spans multiple product categories for both indoor and outdoor play, encouraging families to explore and learn together. Additionally, PBS KIDS will premier eight new plush animals, made by Aurora, available exclusively at Whole Foods Market. These came out over the past holiday season.

The new PBS KIDS toy line includes stackers, blocks, wooden vehicles, pull-along animals, musical instruments and more. Each toy is manufactured sustainably with FSC®-certified wood and organic cotton, and embellished with water-based paint.

The PBS KIDS Aurora line of plush toys will debut in November exclusively at Whole Foods and will feature a new lineup of animals, including a narwhal, flamingo and black jaguar. The toys feature fun, kid-friendly facts about each animal, connecting children with the diversity of wildlife.

About PBS KIDS
PBS KIDS, the number one educational media brand for kids, offers all children the opportunity to explore new ideas and new worlds through television, digital platforms and community-based programs. Kidscreen- and Webby Award-winning pbskids.org provides engaging interactive content, including digital games and streaming video. PBS KIDS also offers mobile apps to help support young children’s learning. The PBS KIDS Video app is available on a variety of mobile devices and on platforms such as Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Xbox One and Chromecast. For more information on specific PBS KIDS content supporting literacy, science, math and more, visit pbs.org/pressroom, or follow PBS KIDS on Twitter and Facebook.

I also love this next one!

Kids’ Book Subscription Box!

   

Spark a lifetime love of reading with Literati’s monthly Book Club for kids. Literati works a bit like Stitch Fix, for books. They work with top-educators and librarians to hand-pick five beautiful new books every month with a fun theme (science, friendship, adventure, history, etc.). You just select the book club based on your kids’ age and development (up to 9 years old), and the books come each month.

Th above books were included in the January’s box. The Book Club theme was “What Dreams Are Made Of.” I  loved the quality of the books and such great choices! February’s theme is “In My Heart,” and March – “Our Great Civilization” and April – “The Earth Speaks.”

To find out more go to www.literatibooks.com.

Do you have kids who love games? 

HABA’s Rhino Hero Super Battle, the 3D card stacking game is back on the job! This time Rhino Hero faces Giraffe Boy, Big E. and Batguin. Who will win the battles and successfully fend off the mean spider monkeys? This one will have you laughing in no time and it’s a fun family game! Recommend for ages 4-8 but the adults may enjoy it on family game nights! Available online at HABAusa.com.

Self Disclosure: I received samples of the above products to facilitate this post. Photo Credit: SoCal City Kids.

 

 

 

Filed Under: Featured Products of the Week

Books for the Kids this Valentine’s Day!

February 12, 2018 By Leave a Comment

Looking for Kids books for the upcoming holiday? I love these two choices!

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I LOVE YOU FOR MILES AND MILES by Alison Goldberg; illustrated by Mike Yamada (ages 2-6, on sale December 26, 2017)

  • An “I love you” book that speaks the language of the vehicle-obsessed toddler, perfect for fans of Nancy Tillman and GOOD NIGHT, GOOD NIGHT CONSTRUCTION SITE.
  • Bold and cheerful illustrations by animator Mike Yamada whose works for Disney include BIG HERO 6, and HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON.
  • Perfect for Valentine’s Day, this is an I-Love-You book that touches on themes of separation, and loving from afar. This is such a cute book with a delightful story! I highly recommend for ages 2-6!

LOVE, MAMA by Jeanette Bradley (Roaring Brook Press, January 2, 2018, Ages 2-6)

  • A modern mommy-love picture book by a debut author/illustrator about a young penguin who learns that a mother’s love is never too far away. Perfect for any child who needs reassurance when a parent leaves—whether out for a night or on a business trip.

  • This is a fresh update of a perennially commercial theme, especially poignant as 70% of women with kids under 18 have jobs in the U.S.

  • An unnamed second caregiver—who could be a parent, babysitter, grandparent, etc.—keeps the story inclusive of diverse family structures.

This book is just too sweet! I highly recommend for ages 2-6!

You can find both of these books here.

Self Disclosure: I received free sample copies to facilitate this post. Images and information also provided. 

Filed Under: Media Reviews

Head to Dunkin’ Donuts this Valentine’s Day!

February 12, 2018 By Leave a Comment

It’s almost Valentine’s Day! Looking for a special treat for your love? Do they love donuts? I know I do! Head over to Dunkin’ Donuts!

Dunkin’ Donuts is showing a lot of love during the month of February with special Valentine’s Day-inspired donut designs and names. Now through February 14, guests can indulge in three different flavored heart-shaped donuts; the Vanilla Truffle Donut, the Brownie Batter Crumble Donut, Cupid’s Choice Donut and Lovestruck MUNCHKINS® (at select locations.)

I had the chance to try the Vanilla Truffle Donut and it is delicious! My son really liked the Brownie Batter Crumble Donut!

Dunkin’s classic donut varieties will also get Valentine’s Day makeovers such as:

  • Boston Dream
  • Pillow Talk
  • Donut Be Jelly
  • Roses are Red
  • Pretty in Pink
  • Chocolate Double Date
  • Choc Full O’ Love

These love-inspired treats are the perfect touch to any Valentine’s Day celebration!

 

Self Disclosure: This is a sponsored post and some form of compensation was received. Images were also provided.

Filed Under: Featured Products of the Week

Kids Music for Valentine’s Day!

February 12, 2018 By Leave a Comment
Valentine’s Day is almost here! Kids everywhere are cutting up doilies and red construction paper and scribbling out little notes to their friends and family. Many are planning class and home parties to celebrate this day of love.
Sugar Mountain PR has a playlist of sweet songs by some of the top songwriters in family music, including three GRAMMY nominees and bilingual award-winning artists.
Here’s a  link to their annual FREE streaming playlist of “Songs for Valentines“
We are offering a giveaway!

  MP3s of these two songs:
Be My Baby by Lisa Loeb –  www.lisaloeb.com
Valentine (I Don’t Want To Be Yours) by Justin Roberts – www.justinrobertsmusic.com
Here’s the list:
1. Be My Baby – Lisa Loeb
2. You’ve Got Me – Sara Lovell
3. Love Your Neighbor – Ladysmith Black Mambazo
4. Loving & Kind – Aaron Nigel Smith
5. Light of Love – Brady Rymer
6. Te Amo – Cathy & Marcy with Sonia De Los Santos
7.  Recess Monkey – Lovestruck Unicorn
8. Valentine (I Don’t Want To Be Yours) – Justin Roberts
Tell us your top 2 song titles from the above list and you could win the MP3s of the two songs! There will be 3 winners. Deadline to enter is February 14th, 2018 at 9 am pst.
Self Disclosure: Credit Sugar Mountain PR. Socal City Kids will select the winners. Happy Pre-Valentine’s Day!
Filed Under: Media Reviews

Outdoor Exhibition Ending Soon Showcases National Geographic Photographer Joel Sartore’s Work Documenting Every Species Living in the World’s Zoos and Other Wildlife Sanctuaries

February 12, 2018 By Leave a Comment

Photo Credit: Jamie Pham.

From now until February 25, Los Angeles Zoo guests can view selections from the ambitious National Geographic Photo Ark project. Founded by National Geographic photographer and Fellow Joel Sartore, the Photo Ark aims to document every species in the world’s zoos and wildlife sanctuaries and inspire people to help protect animals for future generations. The current display shows more than 50 of Sartore’s most compelling images — many of which were photographed at the L.A. Zoo —throughout the grounds and provides Zoo visitors with the unique opportunity to come face to face with animals up close and in vivid color. This exhibition is organized by the National Geographic Society and Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium.

Sartore has worked in more than 250 zoos, aquariums, and animal rescue centers around the world on his quest to build the exhibition. “I hope when [visitors] look at the Photo Ark kiosks here at the L.A. Zoo, they see that a lot of conservation work [is] being done,” states Sartore. “This is a zoo that breeds critically endangered animals, and does education and habitat restoration and anti- poaching patrol funding. They do it all. It’s world- class and it’s right here in L.A. We can all help and it all starts with coming to the Zoo to see the Photo Ark exhibit.”

“Saving species requires everyone to be engaged and make use of every tool available,” explains John R. Lewis, L.A. Zoo Director. “It has often been said that we will only preserve what we love and Joel’s beautiful portraits inspire compassion, awe, and appreciation for each individual animal. It is my belief that the National Geographic Photo Ark will galvanize people to save animals by supporting individuals and institutions involved in species conservation.” Lewis also expresses his appreciation saying, “The Zoo is actively involved in saving species from extinction, so we are proud and humbled to not only have some of our residents included in Joel’s exhibition, but also to be given the opportunity to share the portraits with the people of the greater Los Angeles area.”

The Photo Ark exhibition is traveling to zoos and institutions around the world to raise awareness of the project’s mission, which is further explored in the new National Geographic book, The Photo Ark, and a children’s book, Animal Ark, both available at the L.A. Zoo gift shop. Fans of the exhibit are also invited to join the conversation on social media with #SaveTogether and learn more about how to get involved with the project at NatGeoPhotoArk.org.

The National Geographic Photo Ark exhibition is included with the purchase of a general admission ticket or free with GLAZA membership. Learn more at www.lazoo.org/photoark

Credit:
About the National Geographic Society
The National Geographic Society is a leading nonprofit that invests in bold people and transformative ideas in the fields of exploration, scientific research, storytelling and education. The Society aspires to create a community of change, advancing key insights about the planet and probing some of the most pressing scientific questions of our time, all while ensuring that the next generation is armed with geographic knowledge and global understanding. Its goal is measurable impact: furthering exploration and educating people around the world to inspire solutions for the greater good. For more information, visit www.nationalgeographic.org.

About the Los Angeles Zoo
Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), which holds member institutions to rigorous professions standards for animal welfare, the Los Angeles Zoo is renowned as an international leader in the preservation of endangered species and a conservation center for the care and study of wildlife. Drawing nearly 1.8 million visitors each year, the L.A. Zoo is home to a diverse collection of 1,100 animals representing 250 different species, many of which are rare or endangered. Its lush grounds on 113 acres feature a botanical collection comprising over 800 different plant species with approximately 7,000 individual plants. The Zoo is located in Griffith Park at the junction of the Ventura (134) and Golden State (5) freeways. Admission is $21 for adults and $16 for children ages 2 to 12. The Zoo is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. For information, call (323) 644-4200 or visit the L.A. Zoo Web site at www.lazoo.org.

Filed Under: SoCal City Kids News

Meet the Aquarium’s new sea lion, Cain!

February 12, 2018 By Leave a Comment

A sea lion boarded a plane, leaving the southeast U.S. for his new home in California at the Aquarium of the Pacific. Cain is a high-energy California sea lion, who comes from another Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited facility. He is four years old and weighs nearly 250 pounds. While most of the sea lions and seals at the Aquarium of the Pacific prefer herring and capelin for their meals, Cain prefers to eat squid. On February 8 at 9:00 a.m. members of the media are invited to meet Cain. Cain will be in an introduction area next to the Seal and Sea Lion Habitat at the Aquarium of the Pacific, where staff will be able to gradually introduce him to Parker, Harpo, Ellie, and other sea lion and seal residents. Cain will join the other animals in the larger Seal and Sea Lion Habitat when he is fully accustomed to living with his new family. The public can see Cain when the Aquarium opens that morning at 9:00 a.m.

California sea lions can be found from Vancouver Island, British Columbia, to Baja California, Mexico. Sea lions inhabit temperate or subtropical waters. They haul out on land, rocks, or structures such as piers, boats, breakwaters, and buoys. Although hunted in the past, the current sea lion population has increased substantially along the West Coast of the United States since the passage of the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972.

WHEN:           On exhibit now!  – See all the coverage with the hashtag #AOPCain.

WHERE:         Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA 90802

Credit: The Aquarium of the Pacific. 

Photo by Robin Riggs.

Filed Under: Featured Content, SoCal City Kids News

Peter Rabbit – Adorable, Great Acting, Extraordinary CGI

February 12, 2018 By Leave a Comment

Peter Rabbit, the mischievous and adventurous hero who has captivated generations of readers, now takes on the starring role of his own irreverent, contemporary comedy with attitude. In the film, Peter’s feud with Mr. McGregor (Domhnall Gleeson) escalates to greater heights than ever before as they rival for the affections of the warm-hearted animal lover who lives next door (Rose Byrne). James Corden voices the character of Peter with a playful spirit and wild charm, with Margot Robbie, Elizabeth Debicki, and Daisy Ridley performing the voice roles of the triplets, Flopsy, Mopsy, and Cottontail. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Carla P. comments, “Peter Rabbit is one of my favorite kid’s movie of the year so far. It’s an adorable film that is perfect for the whole family. I love this film because of the acting and CGI.” Morgan B. adds, “Adorable, humorous, charming and a heartwarming tale just in time for Easter and spring!” See their full reviews below.

Peter Rabbit
By Carla P., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 13

Peter Rabbit is one of my favorite kid’s movie of the year so far. It’s an adorable film that is perfect for the whole family. I love this film because of the acting and CGI.

Peter Rabbit follows Peter Rabbit, Flopsy, Mopsy, Cotton Tail and Benji as they get into mischief by taking vegetables from the garden next door. They take the vegetables from Mr. McGregor who tries desperately to get them out of their garden by using explosives and even an electric fence. The rabbits hang out with loveable characters like Bea. She helps the rabbits by giving them shelter when it rains and helps them get food.

Throughout the movie, we see great acting from all the actors and voice actors in the film. I love how Domhnall Gleeson acts like a soulless man with the rabbits who he is trying to kill, but with Bea, he acts like he’s in love. I found that Mr. McGregor (Domhnall Gleeson) really does seem to be in love with Bea. I also like how the voice actors portray the rabbits. Each one of them has a personality that is well portrayed in their voices and actions. For example, Cotton Tail is a memorable character because of how wild and reckless she is. The way Daisy Ridley voices her shows how wild she can be.

The CGI in this film is extraordinary. The animals look so realistic. If you really focus on the rabbits, you can see the individual hairs on them. You can also see it on the pig character that hangs out with the rabbits. During a fight sequence with Peter and Mr. McGregor, they actually look like they are fighting and not like he is fighting a fake bunny.

I rate this movie 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 7 to 12. This movie comes out on Friday, February 9, 2018 so be sure to check it out.

Peter Rabbit
By Morgan B. Bertsch, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 13

Adorable, humorous, charming and a heartwarming tale just in time for Easter and spring! You will be hopping as fast as you can to catch up with the rabbits and all the other animals that are, once again, calculating how to get into Mr. McGregor’s Garden.

Peter Rabbit is based on the books by Beatrix Potter. Beatrix Potter lived from 1866 to 1943 and is one of the best-loved children’s authors. She wrote and illustrated 28 books and each one has been translated into more than 35 languages. They have sold over 100 million copies. This is important because one of the main goals for the director and the cast was to stay true to her vision.

The beauty of this film is that the rabbits all look as if you could touch them because the animation is so life like. The scenes with the garden and house look like places that I would enjoy living because they look like a fairytale that came alive. Of course, if you don’t share your vegetables your life will not be enjoyable.

The moral of the film is about getting along with others, telling the truth and being honest.  Everyone makes mistakes and we need to find a way to fix them.

Thump, click, crack, snap, thud –  all these noises, plus thousands of other sounds effects add to the humor of this film. The music is outstanding. I cannot wait to purchase the soundtrack. There is a combination of movie symphony music, sounds from the 80s, new original songs and a plethora of songs and sounds that will put a smile on your face.

Of course, the comical James Corden makes a perfect bunny. Peter Rabbit is my favorite character, full of sassy and classy moves and words of wisdom. His humorous and quick-witted lines made me burst out laughing when I watched the film. He also has a very kind heart, which I love. Corden brings his quirky personality that we see on his late night television show to this part.

On the other hand, I also love the adorable Flopsy (Margot Robbie). She is so cute and cuddly, knows how to fend for herself and I just love her. She is the perfect role model for kids because she teaches how you can be both smart, cute and a fighter. Margot Robbie adds a bit of quirkiness to this character because she is the one and only Harley Quinn. She is the complete opposite – serious and tough – in the recent movie Christopher Robin. I loved meeting her in person.

My favorite scene is when Mr. McGregor (Domhnall Gleeson) is electrified by the bunnies. This scene is absolutely hilarious and quirky. I could not stop laughing. Seeing bunnies figuring out how to use an electric fence was shocking.

Ever caring, kind Bea (Rose Byrne) is the sweetest. She is the hero who protects the animals at all costs. I relate to her a lot. She is funny and a bit odd. Cotton-Tail (Daisy Ridley) is one tough bunny. You know that this film is magnificent when the star of Star Wars appears in it. Cotton-Tail is young, yet very feisty and tough. It reminds me of her character in Star Wars: The Last Jedi.

I recommend this film for ages 6 to 18 and give it 5 out of 5 stars. Kids will adore the bunnies and the other talking animals. The teenagers will love the hummer and fun scenes that the younger kids don’t understand. This film is a perfect for the entire family so grab a bag of carrots, radishes and turnips and head to the theaters. It opens February 9, 2018.

 

Credit: KIDS FIRST!

 

 

Filed Under: Media Reviews

Go Organically Fruit Snacks shows 3 Unique Expressions of Love for V-Day!

February 12, 2018 By Leave a Comment

Go Organically Fruit Snacks wants to get you and your family in the spirit with some ideas for creative and unexpected expressions of love.

Can you feel cupid getting ready to draw back his bow? Valentine’s Day is almost here! And while we love flowers and heart-shaped boxes of chocolate as much as the next person, we think there are SO many other fun ways to celebrate the season of affection—especially with little kids around. So gather up the family and get ready to be creative this Valentine’s Day with these unexpected expressions of love.

Serve Heart-Shaped Foods

Themed foods are always a big hit with kids…and let’s face it, parents too! Start off the day with heart-shaped pancakes. You can either eyeball the shape yourself or place a heart-shaped cookie cutter on your griddle for a more perfectly-formed heart. Add some mini chocolate chips for a dash of indulgence, then dust with powdered sugar. For lunch, use that same cookie cutter to surprise kids with a heart-shaped sandwich in their lunchbox. And for dinner? We can’t think of anything more perfect than heart-shaped pizza. Some local pizza parlors make heart-shaped pies just for Valentine’s Day, so it never hurts to call! Or buy the dough yourself and shape it into a heart on your pizza pan before adding sauce, shredded cheese and your favorite toppings.

Make Semi-Homemade Valentine’s Cards

Need Valentine’s Day cards or treats for your child’s class? We love finding that perfect middle ground between creating projects from scratch and going the store-bought route. Enter our semi-homemade Valentines! Start by picking up some standard perforated classroom cards and fill in the “to” and “from” fields. Next, staple each card to a pouch of Go Organically Organic Fruit Snacks. Our yummy, kid-friendly treats are the perfect size to attach to your cards! You can even write a cheeky message to tie in with our flavors, such as:

  • Mixed Berry: “Have a Berry Good Valentine’s Day!”
  • Fruit Medley: “Orange You Glad We’re Friends?”
  • Tropical: “You’re the Pineapple of My Eye!”

Put Together a Thoughtful Gift
Personalized presents are the best—especially when they come from the heart. Here are a few of our favorite tailor-made V-Day gift ideas that you can work on with the kids:

  • Daddy Caddy: Buy a small carrying case and fill it with a bunch of handy items for dad to take on the go—like tissues, hand sanitizer, lens wipes and a mini notebook. Add Go Organically Organic Fruit Snacks for a yummy snack dad will love.
  • Mama Mixtape: Put together a custom CD or digital playlist with mom’s favorite songs. Bonus points if they’re love-themed!
  • Kid Koupons: Create currency for your kiddos that can be traded in for special privileges—like breakfast in bed or a chore-free night.
  • Teacher Treasure Box: Decorate a desktop trinket box for your child’s teacher using colorful paint and stick-on gems. Fill it with useful teacher “treasures” like sticky notes, binder clips, rubber stamps and more.

Happy Valentine’s Day from all of us at Go Organically! Made with real fruit, our gluten-free, nut-free, dairy-free kids snacks are a great choice for your on-the-go life. Be sure to follow us on Facebook for more kid-friendly ideas!

Credit: Go Organically. Images and information were provided to post. 

Filed Under: Featured Products of the Week
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