Toys and Activities that can Help Your Child Learn to Write

In the early stages of life, your child begins learning to make sounds that slowly turn into what we refer to as "baby talk". During these early months, your child is learning to mimic your speech, so it is best to speak normally and not in a "baby" voice. In another few months, your child begins scribbling โ€" all activities that eventually help your child learn to write. Here are some other activities and tools you can use to help progress this learning.

Introduce Letters

The magnetic alphabet

One of the most popular toys for introducing your child to writing is the magnetic alphabet. There are also alphabet puzzles with larger letters that easily fit into a wooden puzzle. Learning to identify letters will soon have your child spelling simple words.

When you child has learned all of the alphabet, this is also a great time to start spelling simple words and even your child's name. The letter pieces are always brightly colored to keep your child engaged.

Introduce Phonics

Phonics cd rom

There are educational systems that skip phonics and go straight to sight words. What has been seen with this approach is that children don't improve quickly in their spelling and writing. There are CDs or computer downloads that you can purchase with flash cards to teach your child the basics of learning the sounds of letter and letter combinations.

This is important for your child to learn how to sound out words correctly, so when he or she does begin to write, the ability to sound out the words means fewer spelling errors. If your child is learning only sight words, he or she may even experience the difficulty in putting words together to form sentences.

Writing Pads

Writing pads designed for children can be great activities. They come with rows of particular letters, where your child can then join the dots to write the specific letter. This is fantastic practice, guiding them enough so that they won't get totally confused. There are some electronic toys and tablet games that do the same thing, but if you're on a budget then writing pads are all you really need to begin with.

Once your child gets through the alphabet, teaching them how to spell his or her name is very exciting and builds confidence. You can then help them have fun and practice by letting them sign their name on cards for relatives. This is a great motivator to help your child learn to write!

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KidKraft So Chic Dollhouse Review

KidKraft So Chic Dollhouse

One of the most well built and durable dollhouses on the market, the KidKraft So Chic Dollhouse delivers a multitude of play opportunities across several rooms and multiple levels. The four sided open design includes a staircase, and actual solid wood furniture. Dozens of pieces of miniature furniture are included so your child can customize and personalize to her heart's content, and KidKraft smartly made this high-quality dollhouse large enough to easily accommodate larger dolls. Let us take a look inside the fashionable So Chic Dollhouse by KidKraft, and see exactly what is offered.

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Key Elements of the KidKraft So Chic Dollhouse

• Includes 3 levels and a full 10 rooms
• 45 pieces of furniture are included
• The playset is portable, equipped with rolling casters
• Multiplayer access is provided from all sides
• Also accommodates larger dolls up to 12 inches tall (such as Barbie)

KidKraft So Chic Dollhouse

Parents looking for a truly durable and long-lasting dollhouse need look no further. The KidKraft So Chic Dollhouse has ample room for young girls and their friends to play at the same time, and is accessible from multiple angles. This set is also priced right, even though it uses actual solid wood and composite wood materials that are much more rugged than other dollhouses on the marketplace.

Barbie and other large doll owners will appreciate that the higher ceilings in this playset accommodate dolls up to 12 inches tall, but the fact that this is a solid and long-lasting dollhouse also means that 2 to 3 hours of assembly time is required. The step-by-step instructions are very clear, something that is not always the case with other dollhouses and play sets.

With a wood frame and wood furniture, the KidKraft So Chic Dollhouse offers a minimalist design which can be customized by the accompanying furniture pieces, as well as accessories from other playsets.

Barbies, Moxie dolls, Liv dolls and Brat dolls are all compatible, and this is truly a dollhouse which you will probably be able to pass on to younger siblings, it is that well-made. The furniture and walls are all colorfully painted and designed, and parents should understand that this is a huge dollhouse which requires a lot of room.

At 34.2 x 27.2 x 46.2 inches in size, the KidKraft So Chic Dollhouse offers endless role-play possibilities for young girls who already have their favorite dolls, and is recommended for girls age 3 and older. The convenient casters allow the entire playset to be rolled away into a closet for easy put-away storage, and even young children can roll this large dollhouse easily.

For dollhouse collectors or any young girls that enjoy playing with dolls, the KidKraft So Chic Dollhouse is arguably the most well constructed and durable large-scale dollhouse on the market. This is a dollhouse that parents will love, because it truly can last for years, and works with any of your child's current dolls.

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Lego Chima 70007 Eglors Twin Bike Review

Lego Chima 70007 Eglors Twin Bike

The Lego Chima 70007 Eglors Twin Bike set is another great creation from the makers of Lego. It has the same high quality and sturdy pieces as all of Lego's other sets - designed to activate the creative and mechanical parts of a child's mind. It looks like another great option for Lego fans. Let's have a closer look to see what this building toy has to offer.

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Key Features of the Lego Chima 70007 Eglors Twin Bike

• Bike features large, all-terrain wheels, which turn into a helicopter
• Engines are CHI powered
• Detailing resembles an eagle
• 2 CHI weapons included
• Razacal's helicopter comes with feather-like rotating motors
• Eagle flying mode includes wings, tail, and claws
• 2 minifigures with weapons - Eglor and Razcal
• Ages 7-14
• Includes 223 pieces

Is the Lego Chima 70007 Eglors Twin Bike Worth Buying?

Is your child a Lego fan? If so, this Lego set will definitely be another fun collection for your child to build, especially if they already have other toys from the Chima range, or if they watch the Legends of Chima TV series that accompanies the toys.

There are lots of features of the Lego Chima 70007 Eglors Twin Bike, but the main feature is the ability for this Lego design to turn from a vehicle to a helicopter. This can make for some great imaginative play, either replicating scenes from the show or taking it apart to build new items.

Both figurines are representative of different tribes. Eglor is from the Eagle Tribe, and Razcal is from the Raven Tribe. Both figures, including the vehicle and helicopter, are created with high attention to detail to bring the toy to life. The helicopter is so fascinating, as your child will observe the rotating blades that resemble wings.

The one thing to be aware of is that the wings are not integrated with the figurine bodies - you have to attach them on yourself. This is a small detail that may not matter to your child, so this may not be an issue. Every detail of this Lego set is outstanding and will definitely keep your child's focus on the positives.

Overall, this is a great buildable toy from Lego. It is sure to keep your child engaged in its building and final design. It also makes for a very affordable gift that will offer many hours of play.

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The Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Game Review

The Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Game

The Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Game is an entertaining game for young children. It is also a great contributing tool in encouraging the developmental skills essential to your child's growth. Let's take a slightly closer look at other features this game has to offer children.

Key Features of the Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Game

• Game board doubles as a carrying case
• Encourages development skills
• 1 spinner
• 20 colored acorns
• 4 logs
• Accommodates 2-4 players
• Ages 3+

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Is the Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Game Worth Buying?

Is your child curious about board games? If yes, your child will love this board game made just for his or her educational and developmental level. The main object of the game is to help the hungry squirrels find and store food (acorns). The first player will spin the spinner and use the squirrel squeezers to squeeze the matching acorn to place it in the player's log. The player to have the most acorns in his or her log is the winner.

The Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Game is not only fun, but assists your child in his or her development. The game teaches matching, strategic thinking, eye-hand coordination, sorting, fine motor skills, and pre-handwriting skills to your child without his or her knowledge that learning is taking place.

Although this game contributes to the learning and development of children, its concept is simple for young children to comprehend with adult guidance. There are no difficult cards to read or directions that make a child so confused that he or she becomes bored with the game, which is always important with learning toys for this age range.

As the game board folds nicely into a carrying case, it is very durable and made with high quality to withstand drops from little hands. Its easy design also makes this game great for taking on long trips.

The one thing to be aware of is that the game can seem endless at times. The spinner contains sections where no action is needed; however, children still love the challenge of the game. This seems to be more of a concern for adults.

Overall, this is a great game that will keep your child entertained as long as he or she has a partner to play with. This is a game that is worth buying, due to the many benefits that it offers children.

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Fisher-Price Imaginext Batcave Play Set Review

Fisher-Price Imaginext Batcave Play Set

Now your young children can join the Caped Crusader and his loyal sidekick Robin in Batman's secret command center. Your child can watch over Gotham City from the Batcomputer, and even fire projectiles from the included launcher platform. For older kids with an iPhone, interactive Bat-fun on the Apple smartphone is also provided through a free application download. Let us take a walk through the Fisher-Price Imaginext Batcave Play Set and see just what is in store for your little crime fighter.

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Key Features of the Fisher-Price Imaginext Batcave Play Set

• Includes elevator for moving Batman or Robin
• Helps your children create dialogue between characters, and improve their creativity
• Command center comes with secret walkways, computer and gadgetry
• Jail included for the criminals Batman captures
• Comes equipped with Batman and Robin figures, Flight suit, Batwing, Batcycle and three projectiles

Why the Fisher-Price Imaginext Batcave Play Set Makes a Great Purchase

This secret command center for Batman is really nicely sized. It measures nearly 24 inches across by 15 inches high and almost 6 inches deep, that is not including the folding sections. The Batman and Robin figures have more articulation than in past models, and are also more painstakingly detailed.

The Batcave comes complete with everything your little Batman needs to start playing as soon as it is unpacked, and while this toy is approved for children age 3 to 8, older kids will love it as well. Boys love movable parts and gadgets, and this play center has plenty of both.

Multiple levels are provided, each containing a red disk which can hold both the Batman or Robin figures. Your child will enjoy the interactive feature of this disk system, which controls walkways, lowers the Batcycle ramp, and even pops up the Batsuit for instant access.

There is also a Batpole included, as well as an elevator, for quick movement between levels. A special jail has been built in, and the front jail cell door opens with the push of a button, allowing you to house the Joker, the Penguin or any other of Batman's arch enemies.

Your young crime fighter will expand his creativity as he plans crime busting activities at this secret command center, and the projectile launcher platform is easy to aim and fire. Parents and kids will both enjoy that there is no assembly required, and the Fisher-Price Imaginext Batcave Play Set and secret command center is ready for use right out-of-the-box. A must buy for children and collectors who are fans of the Caped Crusader, this play set is priced right and makes a perfect birthday or Christmas gift.

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The Benefits of Buying Tablet Computers for Children

Children these days are so at one with technology, even toddlers seem to want to play on smartphones! By sheer observance, your child will be keen to do what you do and play with any gadget they can get their hands on. We all know how much a tablet can add to an adult's life, but are they right for children?

There are a number of negatives associated with the use of tablet computers by children, such as decreased attention span and less imaginative games. However, there are certainly positives that come with this technology too.

Education

At the ages between three and five, specially designed kids tablets are made to be very durable, and incorporate large buttons for small hands. These devices focus on the beginning stages of learning with games for shapes, numbers, and letters.

As a child grows, he or she will be ready for the same tablets that adults use. You may want to pick one with Internet browsing protection, plus a shutoff timer to prevent your child from sitting for hours using this device. That way, your child can benefit from learning games and reading digital books, but without spending entire days glued to the screen.

Entertainment

All study and no playtime does not allow your child to be well-rounded in this life. Your child needs to have that flexible time to enjoy entertaining games. And of course, pretty much any child would love to have a tablet computer to play on!

There is nothing wrong with having some time for fun, which you still have the authority to control. And these games can really come in handy when your child is waiting for you at an appointment that is taking longer than expected, or on long car rides. The key is not to always rely on the tablet to entertain your child.

Freedom

As your child develops, they will need more access to technology from which to research their school assignments. You may have one computer in the house that you need for work, making it unavailable to your child.

As schools are demanding more use of technology from your child, there needs to be the freedom of information available. As parents, some of us may feel this is wrong, but it is something we can't change and need to be flexible with.

It's important to weigh up all the pros and cons, and only you can decide at which age it will be appropriate for a child to own a tablet of their own. And remember, you don't necessarily need to spend a lot on a tablet.

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Nerf Rebelle Heartbreaker Bow Blaster Review

Nerf Rebelle Heartbreaker Bow Blaster

Perfect for the young female archer in training, the Nerf Rebelle Heartbreaker Bow Blaster comes colored and designed for girls ages six and up. The powerful Nerf bow can launch darts a considerable distance, and will appeal to young, bold and strong spirited girls that look up to their archer heroines in recent movies and books. This play bow is very durable, is interchangeable with most other Nerf darts, and is priced right. Let us take the Nerf Rebelle Heartbreaker Bow Blaster out to the archery range for a closer look.

Key Features of the Nerf Rebelle Heartbreaker Bow Blaster

• Heartbreaker Bow blaster uses actual bow action
• Darts can go up to 75 feet
• Compatible with accessories which are sold separately
• Comes equipped with five collectible and reusable darts
• Supports other Nerf darts

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What Makes the Nerf Rebelle Heartbreaker Bow Blaster a Great Buy?

This wonderful Nerf bow and dart system for girls is styled in pink and purple, and comes equipped with five reusable darts which clip into the included onboard rail. Able to effectively shoot up to 75 feet, the Nerf Rebelle Heartbreaker Bow Blaster allows young female tweens and teens to perform in the tradition of Merida from Brave and the popular Katniss from Hunger Games.

It is handy that this bow and dart system also works with the Nerf N-Strike Suction darts, and the purple and pink coloring means that your daughter will never get her darts mixed up with her brother's.

The durable and well made bow uses true bow and arrow action, and is decorated with a girlish flair in pink and purple phoenix feathers. This allows your young and growing girl to show her feminine side, while also displaying strength and determination, just like her favorite book and movie heroines.

Hasbro sells accessories and additional darts, but the clip on the system mentioned above easily helps you keep track of the five included darts. Parents will definitely love that this is a quiet toy, and that it also gets your children outdoors for healthy exercise.

Perfect for girls six years of age and older, younger archers will find it difficult to shoot more than 20 or 30 feet, as this powerful bow and dart system does require a little strength to achieve maximum distance. This makes the perfect purchase for any young girl who admires the qualities of the recent book and movie female characters which are superb marksman with a bow and arrow, while also providing the safety of the Nerf design.

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Fisher-Price Imaginext Action Tech City Review

Fisher-Price Imaginext Action Tech City

This Fisher-Price playset creates an environment where your child can be an everyday superhero. The system allows your children to put out fires, stop bank robberies and jail criminals, or even perform a life-saving operation at the nearby hospital. Multiple pieces are included for interaction and role-play, with tons of rescue activities and possibilities. This playset is integrated with emergency sounds and phrases, and is compatible with other Fisher-Price accessories like the Rescue City Center Big Rig (sold separately). Let us take a in-depth look and see exactly what your little hero has to look forward to.

Key Features of the Fisher-Price Imaginext Action Tech City

• The cityscape environment comes complete with fire and rescue and a gas station
• The Fisher-Price Action Tech Technology allows this playset to communicate with compatible accessories
• Your child's imagination is strengthened and enhanced through role-play fun
• Includes two play figures, a satellite dish, fire truck, parking meter, ax, fire hydrant, bank flag, streetlight and more
• 2 AA batteries required, not included

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Is the Fisher-Price Imaginext Action Tech City a Smart Purchase?

Recommended for children 3 to 8 years of age, the Fisher-Price Imaginext Action Tech City will appeal to older children as well, and both boys and girls. The set comes complete with a Rescue City Center that recognizes the fire truck as it approaches, and responds with emergency related phrases and sounds.

Turning one of the included figures opens a vault door or drops a security gate, and a working elevator has been included. The interactive features allow your children to use their imagination in creating new rescue possibilities, and the fire truck actually shoots water projectiles to put out fires.

The working jail door and bank vault open and close, and the firehouse contains a pop-up siren. The hotel comes equipped with pop up flames that let your child stimulate a fire, and the city environment includes an interactive gas station, a police station, fire station with fire truck and accessories, a hotel, bank and a hospital.

Parents should note that the speech and sound functions are loud and distinct, and that this playset is compatible with other Imaginext sets such as the Batcave and Dragon Fortress. However, in comparison to other Imaginext sets, the Action Tech City seems to offer much more interactivity.

With more than a dozen phrases like "Calling all cars, calling all cars! Please Respond!" and "Emergency, emergency ... at the gas station!" the Fisher-Price Imaginext Action Tech City will keep your young ones happy and imaginative, as they learn to become everyday heroes in a truly interactive playset.

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The Pros and Cons of Wooden vs. Plastic Toys

For years there has been much debate about plastic toys whether they're eco friendly enough or safe enough for our children. But plastic toys are still hugely popular in comparison to wooden toys. Despite differing opinions, there is one thing that parents will always agree on, and that is the safety of toys.

Wooden toys

Advantages of Wooden Toys

The most recognized advantage of purchasing wooden toys is durability. Wooden toys seem to last for what seems like an eternity, being passed down from generation to generation. Wooden toys are environmentally friendly, and if they do break it is safe for landfills and will break down without hazard toxins. (Although you must be careful when buying second hand that they weren't coated in lead paint.)

Many parents also see wooden toys as more traditional representing the past. This was a past when children didn't have technology to distract them, so they needed to use their imaginations to have fun.

Disadvantages of Wooden Toys

Wooden toys are harder than plastic toys, which might make it easier for children to hurt themselves. Chewing wooden toys can also lead to splinters in a child's mouth or swallowing of pieces of wood. However, if you purchase wisely then you can find wooden toys designed with all these factors in mind

Plastic toys

Advantages of Plastic Toys

Plastic toys are often less expensive than wooden toys, making them a great option for those unable to afford different types of toys. Plastic toys are washable; therefore, easier to disinfect and keep clean. They can also be exciting for a child to play with, due to the different colors and ability to bend and twist into different shapes and even into gadgets like tablet computers. Most plastic toys have also become BPA free, making them healthier for kids.

Disadvantages of Plastic Toys

Plastic toys are not as durable as wooden toys and tend to break easily, especially when smashed and bitten by young children. If small pieces break off from the plastic, they can easily be swallowed by children and become a chocking hazard. Plastics are also known to put off harmful chemicals into the environment, and many parents don't like those electronic, noisy toys!

The best choice that you can make for your child is to select toys that you can afford and that are the safest for your child at his or her appropriate age. As children get older, more choices become available as the stage of teething subsides. Always read what the toys are made of, and avoid any painted toys for a young child.

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Kindle Fire HDX 7" Tablet Review

Kindle Fire HDX 7" Tablet

With a quick access Mayday button that delivers instant on-device tech support, the Kindle Fire HDX 7" Tablet delivers a feature not found on other tablet PCs. Super-fast connectivity and performance is guaranteed thanks to generous RAM memory and a speedy central processor, and whether surfing the web, multitasking, watching video or playing demanding high definition games, the Kindle Fire HDX 7" tablet is fluid and fast. Priced attractively when compared to comparable 7" tablets, this versatile multimedia machine deserves a closer look.

Key Features of the Kindle Fire HDX 7" Tablet

• 100% sRGB color accuracy
• Fast 2.2 GHz quad core processor
• 1,920 x 1,200 pixel resolution is better than True HD quality
• 2 GB of RAM memory
• Free Amazon Support 24x7, 365 days a year

What Makes the Kindle Fire HDX 7" Tablet A Good Purchase?

Designed for entertainment and perfect for school, the Amazon Kindle Fire HDX 7" provides access to the World Wide Web, e-mail, Skype and more, and runs on a powerful hardware package. One of the benefits of the Kindle lineup is free Wi-Fi Internet access with no charge, and the price tag is very competitive compared to other similar products.

A great gift for kids and teens, this Kindle tablet provides clarity that is better than standard High Def resolution, and X-Ray Music has been included so you can follow along to the lyrics of your favorite tunes. Trivia and background info is provided through X-Ray for Movies and TV, and you can send videos to your TV wirelessly from your Kindle Fire HDX 7" Tablet with Second Screen.

Parents will love the fact that Kindle FreeTime for children is present, allowing you to create profiles for each of your children which dictate what can be accessed, as well as time limits for each activity. This allows you to share one Kindle Fire HDX 7" tablet among many siblings without arguments, and unlimited cloud storage is provided for every Kindle Fire tablet.

This means never running out of storage space for your child's favorite music, videos and other data. The tablet charges in under 6 hours, and that full battery charge can deliver a generous 11.0 hours of reading, web surfing over a Wi-Fi connection, watching video, or music playback.

The large 7.0 inch touchscreen automatically adjusts for perfect viewing indoors or out, and all Kindle Fire HDX models deliver the power of Dolby Digital Plus audio. For your child or teen, the multiple monitoring and customization features, bundled with cutting-edge multimedia web surfing, video viewing, game playing and music listening technologies, make the Kindle Fire HDX 7" Tablet a popular and responsible gift that can be enjoyed for years.

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Barbie Dreamhouse Review

Barbie Dreamhouse

Mattel has really outdone themselves with this new Barbie Dreamhouse. Three levels include six total rooms, and the home can be expanded to reveal a special elevator to move Barbie from floor to floor. Working doorbell lets Barbie know when she has guests coming over, and the fully appointed kitchen includes a working blender and oven light. Mattel has included a unique "stick and stay" feature built into every room of the dream home, which allows your daughter to quickly move accessories from room to room. Let us take a closer look at this huge dream house, and see if your little girl's Barbie will be moving in.

Key Features of the Barbie Dreamhouse

• Huge bathroom includes a light up mirror, shower singing and a flushing toilet
• This year's Dreamhouse includes 2 working elevators
• 3 levels of play with plenty of room to move Barbie and her friends around
• Rooms are fully furnished, with lights and sounds throughout
• 3 AA batteries required, not included

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What Makes the Barbie Dreamhouse a Great Buy?

Mattel has taken the popular Barbie Dreamhouse and made it the most glamorous ever. Each individual room surprises with intricate detail, and for the first time, Barbie's dream home comes complete with two elevators. One elevator moves Barbie and her friends from floor to floor, and the second elevator is just for Barbie's fashions!

Parents need to know that the instructions could be a little bit better, but that the dreamhouse is easy to assemble if you are not in a rush. The living room contains a dining table which you can flip from breakfast to dinner, or from dinner to desert.

And each room contains special mounts that let you clip accessories in and out, allowing your little girl to customize Barbie's rooms in seconds. The beautiful chandelier is also portable and fits every room, and this year the Barbie Dreamhouse includes the ultimate closet.

Pink appliances, a television with multiple channels and a canopy bed are all included, and a kitchen and dining room make up the two rooms on the first floor. On the second floor Barbie can lounge in her bedroom, complete with a cute pet bed, or enjoy the spacious bathroom. Taking the elevator on up to the third floor, a fully appointed living room includes a balcony, and Barbie can prepare for a night out on the town in her ultimate closet.

The closet includes space for Barbie's clothing and fashions, as well as a vanity area. One really neat feature is the fashion elevator, which allows Barbie to choose the perfect outfit and then send it down to the bathroom where she can finish getting dolled up.

The instructions could probably be better, but Mattel recently released a YouTube video that helps with assembly. This is really the best and most complete, luxurious and fashionable Barbie Dreamhouse to date, and is the perfect buy for your little Barbie doll lover that wants the ultimate in Barbie accessories.

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KidKraft Waterfall Mountain Train Set and Table Review

KidKraft Waterfall Mountain Train Set and Table

This train set and table is roughly 4' long x 3' wide web assembled. The massive play area provides virtually limitless train play possibilities, and is compatible with many of the popular train sets on the market today. Unlike many other train sets, legs are provided which left your child's play experience up off of the floor. The tabletop train platform sits 16 inches off of the floor, providing the perfect height for children three years and up. Let us hop on board the KidKraft Waterfall Mountain Train Set and Table and see just what your little train lover can expect.

Key Features of the KidKraft Waterfall Mountain Train Set and Table

• Train set contains more than 100 colorful pieces
• 2 storage bins are included for convenient and quick cleanup
• Huge size means multiple children can play at once
• Durable wood construction
• Set is compatible with Brio and Thomas and Friends wooden train sets

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Is the KidKraft Waterfall Mountain Train Set and Table a Good Purchase?

This full-size elevated train playset spreads an entire community environment across nearly 12 square feet of play area. The rugged set is constructed with composite wood products, and can truly provide years of enjoyment. A Phillips head screwdriver is required for assembly.

Parents should understand that shipping weight is nearly 52 pounds, but assembly is straightforward and simple for both the table and track. Independent figures, animals, vehicles and structures are included, and the different themed areas include farmland, a lake, an airport, a mountain and a park.

The set is recommended for children 3 to 8 years of age, but quite frankly, is a hit with children even older than that. Both boys and girls enjoy trains, and the huge playing area provides interactivity with many of your child's other toys as well. The handy storage bins can rest underneath the table for quick cleanup.

This real-world environment includes a plane, helicopter and even a movable crane, as well as tongue-and-groove track pieces which are easy to connect. The entire landscape is colorfully designed, and the provided Ride Around Town Train can interact with different sections of the track, loading, unloading and crossing a bridge.

Because of the unique tongue-and-groove track design, you can constantly customize and personalize your child's experience. A dual level waterfall has even been included, which your child's trains can pass under.

The train play possibilities are limitless, and the KidKraft Waterfall Mountain Train Set and Table will make a great purchase that offers a large, elevated playing level for train lovers that is sure to last for years.

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How to Encourage Your Child's Interest in Science

Science kits

It can be difficult for some children to see the importance in learning. They may see school and education as something that they just need to do. Relating learning to the world outside of the classroom is the last thing on their mind, because for many, focusing on grades takes precedence.

This can be especially true in areas like math and science. Children don't necessarily see how science relates to what they do outside of school. As their thinking is mostly in the moment, it is difficult for children to comprehend how they will need science in the future. This doesn't have to be the reality for your child; the power lies in your hands.

Get involved

You have the power to set the tone for your child, regarding the importance of learning. Your child's educator can deliver the message, but if it is not enforced or encouraged at home, there is no relevance for your child.

For example, showing excitement and interest in your child's science projects and/or science competitions encourages your child to want to learn more. Your presence alone is encouraging, because you are showing interest. Talking with your child about careers in science also offers him or her a different perspective. Lots of kids want to be astronauts but they don't see the connection with what they are learning in science at school and that "cool" career.

Buy science toys

There are many science toys designed for different ages that are not only educational, but also fun for your child as well. Items such as microscopes and science kits give your child a hands-on approach to science outside of the classroom.

One example of a really fun science toy is the Snap Circuits range. These toys let your children make circuits for items like alarms and doorbells, reinforcing what they're learning and taking it to a whole different level. You can also do simple science experiments with your child without spending money, such as examining leaves or small bugs under a microscope.

Take an adventure

Plan time with your child on weekends or school breaks to take an adventure into the outdoors. The many wonders of nature are a perfect learning environment for science. National parks, wildlife preservation areas, and zoos are some examples of where you and your child can take science out of the classroom. The added benefit of this is that you also get your child more active and outdoors!


Doing activities surrounded by the concept of science encourages your child to see it from a new perspective and not just from a textbook.

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Melissa and Doug Cook's Corner Wooden Kitchen Review

Melissa and Doug Cook's Corner Wooden Kitchen

A Cribsie 2012 Award Winner, Melissa & Doug Cook's Corner Wooden Kitchen is perfect for the aspiring young restaurant owner, chef or homemaker. The set is constructed of wood, and delivers everything needed for a toy home kitchen. Other food related products can be added, but the Melissa & Doug Cook's Corner Wooden Kitchen also serves perfectly as a stand-alone piece. Let us fire up the stove and see what we have in the fridge, and give this toy kitchen at closer inspection.

Key Features of Melissa & Doug Cook's Corner Wooden Kitchen

• A fully equipped children's kitchen for young chefs-to-be
• Contains a three burner cook top, oven, refrigerator and storage shelves
• Working timer included
• Durable wooden construction
• Multiple storage areas

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What Makes Melissa & Doug Cook's Corner Wooden Kitchen a Great Buy?

Perfect for endless imaginative house and restaurant play, the Melissa & Doug Cook's Corner Wooden Kitchen is nonetheless priced substantially below other similar models. However, this set is durably designed, with easy to assemble instructions, parts and pieces.

Assembly requires both slotted and Philips screwdrivers, but it can take some time, so bear that in mind. A hex key, wrench and instruction guide are included to aid you in assembly, and this play kitchen has been designed with non-toxic coatings, meeting or exceeding US toy-testing standards.

The sturdy wooden kitchen has multiple movable parts and an actual working timer, plus everything your child could need for make-believe kitchen cooking.

There are plenty of storage spaces on board, as well as a two shelf fridge, a three range stove area with clicking knobs, a cutting board and sink with faucet. Painted red, blue and white with wood colored siding, the non-gendered design is perfect for both boys and girls three years age and older. Assembled the kitchen measures approximately 37" x 16.5" x 26".

Handles are painted to resemble stainless steel, and the sink is actually removable, so your child can use it as a mixing bowl or a water carrier. Parents will love that this toy kitchen helps grow and improve your children's imagination, allowing them to invent recipes, play restaurant and even entertain their friends they can invite over for "dinner".

Parents will also appreciate the provided storage areas, which allow your child to store cooking utensils, toys and play food in the refrigerator, oven and multiple shelves. Independent and monitored pretend play are both possible, and your child just may turn out to be the next top chef thanks to the value priced, durable and versatile Melissa & Doug Cook's Corner Wooden Kitchen.

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The Drawbacks of Buying Tablet Computers for Children

Tablet Computers for Children

While the potential benefits to your child's mental growth are many, there are also multiple drawbacks of buying tablet computers for kids and teens. Depending on the age of your children, they may treat the versatile and powerful minicomputer in their hands in a rough-and-tumble manner. And for parents of multiple children, the idea of spending several hundred dollars each to purchase their children their own tablet PCs is daunting by itself, especially if the devices will be mistreated.

One of the most concerning drawbacks of buying tablet computers for children concerns how the child will use the device. Though a parent may have the best of intentions, without strict monitoring the powerful computer may simply turn into an all-day movie or music player. To address those concerns, some tablet manufacturers have included child monitoring applications and software, which allow you to set limits on the content your child accesses, as well as limiting exactly how long they can spend enjoying different activities such as web surfing and viewing videos.

And in a day and age where child obesity is rampant, many parents may think twice before supplying their children with yet another mobile PC which might contribute to less exercise and poor physical fitness. There are of course multiple fitness applications and games your child can interact with which are available for download to the most popular tablet computers, but will your child use them?

Another major drawback which parents run up against when they are shopping for tablet computers for their tween, teen and college aged children concerns features. A shopping parent has to compare screen size, resolution, processing power, RAM memory and a ton of other features, to make sure they are purchasing the right product for their child's end-use. With literally hundreds of tablet PCs to choose from, this can be difficult for even a tech savvy parent.

And of course there is the child's short attention span which must be taken into account. Today's kids demand instant gratification, and while a tablet PC may be a well-received gift when presented, it may simply end up battling for your child's attention along with his smartphone, laptop, hand-held gaming devices and other well intended gifts and toys.

Parents wanting the best for their kids need to thoroughly consider the many drawbacks of buying tablet computers for children. Cost and content accessibility are among the primary concerns, and rightfully so. You should also consider whether your child is old enough to properly care for a tablet PC. And don't forget that your best intentions may simply see a tablet computer collecting dust and unused shortly after purchase. As long as you bear these factors in mind, you may be able to leapfrog the many drawbacks of a tablet PC purchase for children and teens, and score the perfect gift.

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Playskool Showcam 2-in-1 Digital Camera and Projector Review

Playskool Showcam 2-in-1 Digital Camera and Projector

Mobile handsets and smartphones all come with built-in cameras, and now your child can have his or her very own digital camera with an instant-play projector mode. The Playskool Showcam 2-in-1 Digital Camera and Projector captures and displays pictures, while allowing your child to customize and add silly special effects and sounds. This digital camera is definitely made and sized for young hands, and offers simple and quick operation. Let us snap a few pictures with the Playskool Showcam 2-in-1 Digital Camera and Projector and see what you can expect.

Key Features of the Playskool Showcam 2-in-1 Digital Camera and Projector

• Requires 4 AA batteries (not included)
• No software or computer required
• Enhances your child's creativity
• USB A to Mini USB B cable is required to download snapshots to your computer (not included)
• Holds hundreds of images before download is needed

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What Makes the Playskool Showcam 2-in-1 Digital Camera and Projector a Great Buy?

Aside from the very affordable price tag, this combination digital camera and projector offers a lot of customization features. After your child snaps a picture, there are 50 special effects that can be applied. What is really nice is that even young hands can operate the quick-flip switch that turns this digital camera into a projector.

Recommended for kids aged 3 to 7, older children will also enjoy the ability to add animation, stories and sounds to the pictures they take. And Playskool has done a good job making all controls and buttons kid sized, and durable.

Parents will appreciate that the editing functions are already built-in, so there is no software to deal with. It is also very easy for your child to save, print and even e-mail pictures by connecting to a computer with a USB cable (not included).

Your child's creativity and originality are enhanced, with the Playskool Showcam 2-in-1 Digital Camera and Projector making the perfect gift for your young shutterbug and movie maker.

The projector option offers three different ways to show your child's pictures, and the projector display works best from about 2 feet away onto a wall or flat surface. Five slide show themes are built-in, or your child can scroll through each photo on his or her own.

With the ability to store over 1,000 photos without a memory stick, the Playskool Showcam 2-in-1 Digital Camera and Projector will provide endless entertainment. And as mentioned above, connecting to a computer with a USB cable allows you to download your photos, creating endless storage.

A hand strap and instructions are included, and this dual function camera and projector is priced right, making it a wonderful and affordable gift for your little photographer.

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Baby Alive Real Surprises Baby Doll Review

Baby Alive Real Surprises Baby Doll

This interactive doll is perfect for little girls, helps teach responsibility, and speaks both Spanish and English. Just as a human child would, the Baby Alive Real Surprises Baby Doll requires feeding and diaper changing. She will let your little one know when she is hungry and when she has had enough to eat, and at bedtime, your child can lay down with her and give her the included pacifier. Watch with pride as your little girl takes care of her own little doll. Let us take a closer look, and see exactly what is offered.

Key Features of the Baby Alive Real Surprises Baby Doll

• Lets you know when she is hungry or not
• Speaks both English and Spanish
• Actually pees and poops, change her diaper to keep her happy
• 3 AA Batteries required (not included)
• For children aged 3 and up

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Is the Baby Alive Real Surprises Baby Doll a Good Buy?

This "real actions" female baby doll weighs less than 5 pounds, and is easy for your young "mommy in training" to carry and care for. Moms and dads need to be forewarned, this realistic looking doll actually pees and poops after eating, so you will have to instruct your child in the finer points of changing diapers. The Real Surprises Baby Doll comes complete with a bottle, feeding bowl and spoon, as well as a pacifier, dress and bib.

You also receive three diapers and three food packets along with instructions about how to prepare meals, as well as how to feed the doll. Three AA batteries are required but last quite a while, and this unique and interactive doll can even help your child learn languages, as she speaks both English and Spanish.

At just over 6" x 14" x 16" in size, this is a sizable baby doll. When your child goes to feed her, the doll will shake and move her head to let you know what she likes and what she does not. Just as with any human child, diapers and food need to be purchased, and these are offered as extra accessories.

It is highly recommended to get extra food and diapers when you purchase the doll, as the initial diapers and food do not last very long.

The Baby Alive Real Surprises Baby Doll produces sounds and noises just like a human baby, complete with more than 30 baby-like phrases and sayings. The Baby Alive lineup includes additional outfits and other accessories, and you can purchase either a Caucasian or African-American model.

The Baby Alive Real Surprises Baby Doll makes a great gift for your little girl, and the responsibility she learns caring for her doll will make her feel like a real mommy.

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Fisher-Price Octonauts Octopod Playset Review

Fisher-Price Octonauts Octopod Playset

Designed after the popular children's show, the Fisher-Price Octonauts Octopod Playset provides undersea adventure on the interactive and multifunctional Octopod. And just like in the TV show, the Octo-Alert system lets your child know exactly when it is time to take action. Also, the Octo-Alert notifier can clip to your child's belt or pants, alerting your budding oceanographer when it is time to rush back to the Octopod in case of an emergency. Let us go undersea with the Fisher-Price Octonauts Octopod Playset and take a closer look.

Key Features of the Fisher-Price Octonauts Octopod Playset

• Removable Octo-Alert feature plays sounds and phrases
• Rescue tools can be lowered and lifted to transport sick creatures
• Over 10 different play pieces included
• Set includes Octopod, Barnacles, Kwazii, mini Gup-A, removable Octo-Alert, fiddler crab, sea turtle, eel, stretcher, anchor, barrel and net

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Why the Fisher-Price Octonauts Octopod Playset Makes a Great Purchase

The popular children's show comes to life with this Fisher-Price piece, and even talks to your child in the realistic sounding voices of Barnacles and Kwazii. The Octonauts figures can slide down from their pods to the Launch Bay and climb on board the GUP-A underwater vehicle, collecting injured sea creatures for later treatment back at the Octopod.

All pieces are well reproduced, allowing your child to replay their favorite Octonauts adventures, or create their own. The Octonauts dedicated mission is to explore ocean worlds, rescue sick and injured sea creatures, and protect the oceans. And this very affordable playset allows your child to do just that, while expanding his or her imagination and creativity.

After your child spends a day of excitement away from the home base on board the mini Gup-A undersea vehicle, a return home to the Octonauts Octopod playset provides even more adventure. This underwater environment includes the Octopod as a fully equipped vessel, and Fisher-Price has been a good job re-creating the appearance of the TV show home base.

Batteries are included, and this two-sided playset presents multiple opportunities for role-play creativity. Your child can pretend to be Kwazii, Barnacles or any of the "injured" see animals included, and the removable rescue tools include a net, stretcher, anchor and barrel.

This set is compatible with other Octonauts, but functions as a standalone piece without any other purchase. This is also the perfect companion piece to accompany all the other Gups and characters in the beloved series. The Fisher-Price Octonauts Octopod Playset makes an inexpensive and much appreciated gift for children who are fans of the Octonauts show, and will provide hours of fun and imaginative undersea role-play.

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Zoomer Toy Dalmation Review

Zoomer Toy Dalmation 

The Zoomer Dalmation toy dog is an interactive play pet that will instantly become your child's new best friend. With all the benefits of a real-life puppy and none of the negatives, Zoomer understands your child's voice in multiple languages, and loves to learn new tricks. Some children are not ready for the responsibility of caring for a live animal, and Zoomer makes the perfect toy puppy replacement. The Zoomer Dalmatian has a wide range of capabilities, so let's see exactly what you get when you adopt this intelligent toy puppy.

Key Features of the Zoomer Dalmation Toy Puppy

• Zoomer understands and responds to voice commands
• Capable of learning new tricks
• Understands English, Spanish and French
• Perfect for children ages 5 and up
• Requires no batteries, charges through included USB cable

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What Makes Zoomer the Perfect Toy Puppy Pet?

Priced perfectly considering the interactive capabilities and hours of endless fun he provides your child, the Zoomer Dalmatian toy puppy is truly the closest thing to a real-life pet without the mess and responsibility. This technologically advanced puppy learns commands from your child, with a trial and error learning curve just like a real puppy has.

You simply touch Zoomer's head to let him know you want to communicate with him, and then he can perform any of the neat tricks you are able to teach him. He even comes to understand his name, and enjoys a good belly scratching just like a real puppy.

The programming on board will keep your child delighted, as Zoomer follows your child's movements with his eyes. It is nice that Zoomer has access to free Android and iOS applications that help you and your child understand exactly how to train him, and this versatile toy puppy charges completely in about an hour.

And just like a real puppy, Zoomer sometimes feels rambunctious and just wants to play. There is also a Random Trick button on Zoomer's back that will reward your child with whatever action Zoomer feels like performing at the time. Your child can teach this smart toy puppy how to shake a paw, roll over, play dead and go for a walk.

Zoomer even whines, barks, pants and has his own unique personality. When your child calls his name, Zoomer attentively sits up and looks directly at your child, awaiting his next command.

Zoomer is the perfect toy puppy for those parents who want their child to experience the fun and love that comes from an interactive relationship with a pet, without all the responsibility and care. Zoomer is available without clothing, with a hoodie, or with a red varsity jacket and ball, and will quickly become your child's new best friend.

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Ernie Farm Train Review

Ernie Farm Train Review

Train sets are perennial favorites when it comes to toys for little boys (and the "not so little ones" as well.) Here's a new train set that is sure to be a big hit among the same crowd, and maybe even win new ones! It's the Ernie Farm Train.

Features of the Ernie Farm Train

• Ernie Farm Train is from Hasbro's Rails and Roads, their line of Sesame Street toys, joining the ranks of the Cookie Monster Food Train and Elmo Junction, among others.
• The train itself comes with an attachable rail car and, since it's supposed to be a farm train, there's a pig on the rail car which kids can take to the farm. Kids can also hear fun phrases about animals spoken by Ernie himself. Just press Ernie's head down to encourage him to speak.
• Ernie Farm Train can be played alongside the Cookie Monster Food Train and be integrated into the bigger Elmo Junction playset. It requires two AAA batteries (demos included).
• This train set is ideal for parents with young children, aged 18 months to 4 years, who are fans of Sesame Street. Since it also encourages learning about animals and farm life while having fun, parents would most definitely want to have this train set for their kids.

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Price and Guarantees

This train set costs an average of $16.99, an inexpensive price compared to other similar train sets. Hasbro's stamp of quality and integrity is on this product, so that should be more than enough guarantee for everyone.

What we like about the Ernie Farm Train

Toddlers and preschoolers are at that age when they are susceptible to learning. Training them at an early age is a good idea, and using training or learning tools that will also enable them to have fun with characters they love is an added advantage. That's definitely something to like about the Ernie Farm Train.

In addition, its flexibility in being a standalone toy while having the capability to be part of the bigger Elmo Junction is also something parents appreciate.

What we did not like about the Ernie Farm Train

On the flipside, parents might feel pressured to buy the Elmo Junction or the Cookie Monster Food Train. Its dependence on batteries for its operation is also a disadvantage, since there would be a need to change them every now and then.

Is The Ernie Farm Train Worth Your Money?

Anything that encourages learning in the form of playtime for children 2 years old and up is worth the money. The mere fact that it is from a trusted name when it comes to toys – Hasbro – is also a bonus. Therefore, the answer is yes, the Ernie Farm Train is worth parents' money.

Where To buy the Ernie Farm Train

Ernie Farm Train is available at most major toy stores and retailers nationwide. You can also buy it directly from Hasbro's online Toy Shop, or other online stores, such as website.

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More Customer Reviews for the Ernie Farm Train

Just as everybody loves Sesame Street, everybody also loves Ernie Food Train, making it one of the most sought after character toys in the market today.

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Friendship is Magic Wigs Review

Friendship is Magic Wigs Review

Cosplay has become a huge part of pop culture of late. It's no longer an uncommon sight to see people of all ages wearing costumes of their favorite characters from different shows and movies. Even old characters from old shows are making quite a comeback via cosplay. Take the ‘80s series My Little Pony, for instance. The younger generation is definitely learning more about it through cosplayers who flaunt the characters in various anime and comic conventions. It's getting a new "lease on life", so to speak, and cosplayers are definitely lining up to have their own "Friendship is Magic" wigs, which is inspired by the show.

Features of Friendship is Magic Wigs

Cosplaying won't be as fun if there aren't any colors or outlandish designs. That is why My Little Pony is a favorite among cosplayers. The characters are distinctly marked by the use of the most vibrant of pastel shades and neon colors. Taking its cue from these colors, the wig collection of Friendship is Magic comes in those vibrant hues, depending on their respective characters. There is the ultra-colorful Rainbow Dash and the lusciously girly Pinky Pie. Fluttershy, Rarity, and Twilight Sparkle are also available. The material used in these wigs are high-quality and heat-resistant synthetic fiber. That means anyone who wears them can style them no matter how they want, using flat irons, curlers and rollers. Fans of the show would want to have a memorabilia of sorts from their favorite show. Cosplayers would also find a lot of use for these wigs.

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Price and Guarantees

The price of the wigs depends on the character, but the price range is between $34.99 and $45.99. There is no official word yet on whether or not they come with a warranty.

What We Liked About Friendship is Magic wigs

Quality-wise, nothing bad can be said about the wigs. They are frizz-free, and users won't have a problem with tangles. In fact, with the proper care and maintenance, the wigs could last for a long time. In addition, the colors were also truly faithful to the show and its characters, making them the perfect hair piece for avid cosplayers.

What We Did Not Like About Friendship is Magic Wigs

We find the price tag to be slightly steep, especially for wigs. However, at the end of the day, quality wins, and Friendship is Magic wigs are definitely of high quality, so all's good.

Are Friendship is Magic Wigs Worth Your Money?

Hardcore fans of the series wouldn't mind paying twice and even thrice the suggested retail price. And considering how difficult it is for cosplayers to find high-quality wigs, paying the price tag of these wigs is not something they would mind greatly.

Where To Buy Friendship is Magic Wigs

Specialty stores that carry cosplay merchandise are sure to have Friendship is Magic wigs for sale. Or, you could go online and purchase them from stores such as website.

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Customer Reviews for Friendship is Magic wigs

Friendship is Magic wigs aren't only appreciated by fans of My Little Pony. Even cosplayers who are not familiar with the show love the quality of the wigs, adding to its appeal! For fans, this is a way to remember the show they loved so much while growing up.

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Elmo Junction Review

Elmo Junction Review

The impact of Sesame Street in the consciousness of an entire generation is so huge, it's no longer a surprise when you hear people of all ages talking about the well-loved characters from this show. Although technically the street is nonexistent, that doesn't stop many from wishing it was real, and so they resort to the next best thing to achieve something close to it: scaled down models of the Sesame Street universe, or at least bits and pieces of it. Like the Elmo Junction by Hasbro, for instance.

Features of Elmo Junction

There is no doubt that Elmo is the most popular and most beloved characters from Sesame Street. He has become the most recognizable character, with his red furry appearance, soft voice and cuddly personality. He has been "reincarnated" in so many forms that no toy store is devoid of any Elmo merchandise. Parents are particularly fond of toys that are also educational, and that is the category Elmo Junction falls under. Basically, Elmo Junction is a toy set that is comprised of a figure-eight ten-feet train track, a double-decker train, and smaller cars. There's an ABC railroad and a 123 road where the children can "drive" their cars and trains on while listening to Elmo singing the number song and the alphabet song. Kids will sing along, learning their numbers and alphabets while playing. Combining playtime fun and learning is what makes Elmo Junction a must-have for parents of toddlers or little children before they even hit pre-school.

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Price and Guarantees

Hasbro, a world-renowned maker of high-quality toys, is set to release Elmo Junction in the fall of 2013 at the price of $44.99. No official word on any warranties or guarantees just yet but, knowing Hasbro, buyers can rest assured they are making a good investment.

What We Like About Elmo Junction

Although the track, when laid out from end to end, reached the length of ten feet, storage of Elmo Junction is not a problem. It can be disassembled and stowed away without taking up too much space. However, the thing to like best about Elmo Junction is how it skillfully merges education and playtime fun in one fell swoop. Kids would be playing with cars and trains but after a while, you'll find that they have already mastered their numbers and the alphabet!

What We Did Not Like About Elmo Junction

Since Elmo Junction runs on two AA batteries, there is no telling how fast battery life would be exhausted, especially when children get too carried away with playing for hours on end. On the other hand, while storing Elmo Junction does not take up a lot of space, laying it out is a different story. It's quite wide, so a lot of room would still be required.

Is Elmo Junction Worth Your Money?

Other educational toys are priced more than the suggested retail price of Elmo Junction, but they're not half as good. This is definitely worth spending almost $45 on.

Where To Purchase Elmo Junction

All major stores and retailers that hold Hasbro products for sale are also expected to have Elmo Junction on their shelves when it is officially released. You can also buy it online, from website and other online stores.

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Customer Reviews for Elmo Junction

There is no doubt that Elmo Junction will also be one among the many Elmo-related and Sesame Street-related toys that parents and kids alike will love and enjoy.

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iFirehouse Product Review

iFirehouse Product Review

Yes, kids can now own and run a firehouse, albeit in a virtual environment. Thanks to the iFireman app, little boys (and maybe even little girls) can fully experience being a firefighter.

Features of iFirehouse

With iFirehouse, children will be given the run of a virtual firehouse, complete with virtual firefighters. The firehouse itself is comprised of a 6 rooms, each of them with specific functions and activities that kids can do.

Kids can customize each of these rooms just by switching through the available options. They can choose the paintjob they want done on the rooms and even shop for fire trucks. They can even personalize the firehouse's interior decoration by "inserting" photos that they have taken using the tablet on the photo frames hanging on the firehouse walls.

Children can also live vicariously as firefighters through the virtual dolls. Putting out fires and undergoing fire drills are a given. Of course, when there is no fire to put out, the virtual firefighters could carry on playing hopscotch at the yard or simply feeding the firehouse pet dog.

A separate iFirehouse play case has also been released to accompany this app. The case comes with small figurines of a little fireman, fire chief, or dog – take your pick. These figurines have corresponding codes that can be scanned and imported into the app to join your team of firefighters.

The iFirehouse app runs on iOS 5.0 or later on iPad, iPhones, and iPods.

Little boys – the target market of  iFirehouse – can indulge their fireman dreams through this game.

Price and Warranty

The iFirehouse play case costs $19.99, while the app can be bought from the iTunes store for only $0.99. There are no product warranties or guarantees, but you can contact Apple support if there are problems with the app.

Positive Points of the iFirehouse

Ease of use and convenience are important when designing games or toys for little children. The mere fact that there are no complicated setup tools and no small parts to assemble is to iFirehouse's credit. All you need is the app and the appropriate electronic device, and you're good to go.

Thanks to the iFirehouse case, parents can bring the app anywhere so their kids would have something to do. Its portability is enhanced by the addition of a handle, so even kids can lug it around without any problems. Since it primarily serves as a protective shell, it would also minimize damage or scratches on the device, a fact that is mostly inevitable considering how kids aren't usually the most conscientious when it comes to handling items.

The personalized settings of iFirehouse's environment is the major benefit obtained by children who play this game. It's like the iDollhouse, only this one is geared more towards little boys.

Negative Points of the Firehouse

Unfortunately, the only way to fully enjoy iFirehouse is through the use of Apple iPhones, iPads, or iPad tablets. It cannot run on tablets or electronic devices from other manufacturers.

Some also complain about how there aren't enough features to the game. It would seem as though there aren't a lot of things to do inside a firehouse, and that is not really an impression to give to young boys. It would have been better if there are other activities or events that can be performed by the virtual dolls. This is very important, considering the very short attention spans of small children.

What Other Customer Have to Say About iFirehouse

Children have the most active imaginations and little boys, in particular, are always on the lookout for new types of adventures. Most little boys harbor a secret wish to don the firefighting uniform and helmet and start fighting fires. That is basically the main attraction of iFirehouse among many parents.

There is also the fact that the iFirehouse app is not as expensive as other games currently being sold in the market. For less than $1, children can now spend hours and hours building their own virtual firehouse reality, improve their planning skills, and generally be little boys!

Should You Buy iFirehouse?

It's a no-brainer, really. For less than a dollar, you can have an interactive and fun game involving fires, fire trucks, firefighters and a firehouse, with a firehouse dog as a bonus! Even the Play Case, with its tiny figurines, is definitely worth your money.

Where to buy the iFirehouse

You can buy the iFirehouse app from the iTunes store. The iFirehouse Play Case, on the other hand, is available at the AppVentures website. It can also be purchased from website.

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Cuddles, My Giggly Monkey Review

Cuddles, My Giggly Monkey Review

Hasbro has unveiled a new addition to the FurReal Friends family. This animatronic toy line is composed of animals that have been programmed to behave and respond under certain circumstances they are subjected to. This time, it's a monkey, and it's aptly called Cuddles, My Giggly Monkey, and it promises to be one of the most modern and most advanced toys in terms of technology and animatronics.

Features of Cuddles, My Giggly Monkey

As the name implies, Cuddles is a monkey that giggles. But that is not all it can do.

The size of an actual baby monkey, Cuddles is programmed to produce more than 100 unique sounds, depending on the stimulus subjected to it. Monkey sounds will be issued from the monkey when a child swings it around, mimicking the swinging-from-tree-to-tree action normal monkeys do. Rocking Cuddles to sleep would promptly put it to sleep with its eyes closed, and when a feeding bottle is placed into its mouth, don't be surprised to hear the suckling sounds of one who is nursing.

Little girls will find a companion, a friend, a pet, and a toy doll in Cuddles. This giggly monkey has been designed with kids 4 years old and above. Parents will be more inclined to buy Cuddles, My Giggly Monkey, as a companion-slash-toy for their children instead of leaving the baby-sitting skills to the television. Also, fans of animatronics would find something to love about this toy.

Price and Guarantees

Cuddles, My Giggly Monkey is not yet out for sale, but when it does (in the fall of this year), expect to pay around $79.99. Considering how it makes use of animatronics technology, and Hasbro is the one behind it, there are sure to be guarantees and warranties.

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What To Like About Cuddles, My Giggly Monkey

The best part about Cuddles, My Giggly Monkey, is how close it is to the real thing. It looks so life-like that children may be initially convinced they have an actual baby monkey in their arms. Since it encourages social interaction in children, it also has a great potential to improve their growth and development.

What Not To Like About Cuddles, My Giggly Monkey

Do not expect Cuddles to be quiet. After all, it wouldn't be called "giggly" for nothing. This may not be ideal for those who prefer a quiet environment. Also, some may find the $79.99 price tag to be a bit steep.

Is Cuddles, My Giggly Monkey Worth Your Money?

When shelling out almost $80, consider this: you are paying for a toy that would improve your child's social skills and teach her or him the value of responsibility. In addition, you are paying for a toy that is considered to be one of the most advanced animatronic toys in the world. Is it worth your money? It most definitely is!

Where Can I Buy Cuddles, My Giggly Monkey?

Expect all the major stores and toy outlets to have Cuddles, My Giggly Monkey on the prime spots in their shelves once it is officially released. It is also bound to find its way to the major online retailers, website among them.

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Customer Reviews for Cuddles, My Giggly Monkey

This early, the excitement for the release of Cuddles, My Giggly Monkey is very high.

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