Zhu Zhu Pets Toys - Do Not Choose the Wrong Hamster

The toy lineup Zhu Zhu Pets LLC is manufactured by a company called Cepia. Since the beginning of Cepia in 2002, have concentrated their efforts packages on the production of Kids' fun toy that really the limits of technology in relatively inexpensive. Some of their toy most notable successes include the Glo-e Bear Max and Hydro Raptors Sky. The launch of Zhu Zhu toy animals (often wrong zoo zoo animals toys and even pets Zhu>toys) has really catapulted the company to the forefront of the kids' toy tables and quite possibly onto becoming the best selling toy for 2009. Currently, the model range only includes the hamster pets and their accessories, but with such demand, who knows what the 'pet' lineup will include in the future.

For those of you that are looking to buy Zhu Zhu hamsters, this Christmas or beyond, then you essentially have a choice of four main hamster varieties and one exclusive hamster toy currently. Each different in color and each suited to different children because of the pet toy's individual characteristics and personalities. Choosing which one your kid will love and have the most fun with will depend on the parent buying the most suitable match to their child's personality.

Mr Squiggles is the bestselling hamster of the lot and has pretty much remained in that position since the launch of Zhu Zhu toys. If your child wants a fast and furious little critter, then Mr Squiggles may be the perfect choice. Light brown in color, he perhaps resemble a real hamster the most out of all five. Mr Squiggles loves to scurry and scoot at full speed and has some hysterical sounds when he bumps into anything in his way.

Pipsqueak is more or less the second most popular choice among kids but frequently topples Mr Squiggles for pole position periodically. Pipsqueak is a great soft yellow color that girls especially love. Pipsqueaks, like Mr Squiggles also loves to go fast in explore mode, but settle her down and put her into affection mode and your kids will spend hours heaping care and attention on her.

Num Nums is the true lady of the lot and perhaps the most fussy of all the hamster pack. She loves to explore around and fuss over everything, making all of the sounds and noises that she makes so well. Don't let this fool you though, in explore mode she is certainly able to scoot around as good as the next hamster toy. Num Nums has a passion for food and loves to spend time in the Funhouse hamster kitchen, kids love to watch and listen to all of the sounds she makes in there.

Chunk is the snow white hamster of the Zhu Zhu Pets range and girls love the color, but both girls and boys alike love his personality. Chunk is the surfer dude of them and likes to take life easy and enjoy everything in his world in a calm and relaxed manner. His priority is not to scoot and scurry continuously like Mr Squiggles or Pipsqueak, but he is more content at his own pace. Where Chunk really comes into his own is when he does what he does best - surfing. Kids love to watch Chunk get on board his board and show them all of his cool moves and make all of his cute noises like only Chunk can.

Patches is the Zhu Zhu pet that is only available as part of a bundled package. The most widely available packages if you want to buy Zhu Zhu Patches, includes the Funhouse or hamster House Starter Set. Patches is darker yellow in color with a large white patch on its back. Patches loves the flowers and in explore mode, goes about hunting them out.

The Squinkies Cupcake Surprise Bake Shop Review

Blip Toys manufactures the Squinkies Cupcake Surprise Bake Shop. The maker recommends this particular plaything for kids four or more. It works by inserting a play coin into your cupcake and twisting the knob, which in turn dispenses a surprise toy inside of a plastic bubble. It is just like a tiny vending machines which dispenses toys and games in the plastic bubbles. It comes equipped with nine Squinkies, although you may want to collect all the series. It may deal with fifteen Squinkies.

You may open up the Squinkies Cupcake Surprise Bake Shop to play with the little bakery with its pies and cakes. It does include tiny components inside and is a choking threat for children below three years.

The playthings inside the plastic bubbles are supple and may be squashed to create a squeaky sound. They are compact enough that you can have a number of them in your hands to play with. Your Squinkies Cupcake Surprise Bake Shop is constucted from brilliant colors and in a delightful shape of a cupcake. These toys aren't educational toys but tend to be entertaining to play with if an enthusiastic imagination is employed.

Small kids will love having fun with the tiny prizes and toys. When they are finished messing around with them, they're able to put the Squinkies back in the plastic bubble and next place them back in the bakeshop, where they will be prepared for the following occasion of play. They're going to have fun sharing along with their pals and brothers and sisters.

You will make a child or grandchild happy once they are given their own little bakeshop filled full of surprise toys. Just what fun they're going to have pretending to be bakers with their own little bakery shop. As the Christmas holidays are around the corner, this is the time to order whilst they are still available. Moms and dads will love the affordable prices offered at the present time and the kids will cherish their particular selection of Squinkies.

The Squinkies Cupcake Surprise Bake Shop is a popular toy this season. It is among a series of Squinkies themes. The compact toy pieces are available in a series of six. It truly is extraordinary in style and vivid colors which render it fun and festive, very tough for many hours of entertainment a great gift to give to children or grandchildren at Christmas time.

Squinkies Teatime Surprise - Christmas Toys 2010

The Squinkies Tea Time Surprise Playset is a dispensing machine in the form of a tea set play set. Children love to pretend that they are grown ups and so imitate their parents and other elders in their fun games. This is one such game where kids can pretend to have a tea party, like elders do, with the Squinkies characters and earn handsome rewards in the process as well.

The set consists of a teapot-dispensing machine, four good-looking teacups around the base of the teapot, five special Squinkies with their five bubble containers and two fake play coins. The little character is the prize in the game and children can win them by inserting either the fake coins or real coins in the teapot. These creatures are contained inside bubble packs and hold a surprise for the winner children till the pack is opened. The game is recommended for kids aged 4 and above.

Kids can fill in the Squinkies Tea Time Surprise Playset with Squinkies that have been supplied to them or others they have collected from elsewhere. They then have to insert either a real coin or the fake ones, they have been given, in the game set and turn the heart shaped pink colored dial. A Squinkie then pops out of the shoot. The play set can also act as a sort of a money bank when real coins are inserted. This will encourage kids to save money. Alternatively, parents can also use this as reward system popping out a surprise Squinkie as the reward by inserting either of the coins.

Girls particularly enjoy this game. The tiny toys popping out of the teapot is fun. They also play around imagining these toys as real characters and involving them in tea parties. These mini toys can be ponies, puppies, babies, kiddies, ponies, rings and many other such things. The game also comes with a booklet with numbered figures to make collecting easier. So don't wait, play the game and collect them all.

The game set is carefully designed. It is brightly colored to get your kid's attention at first sight. This play set is not very big at all. Typical dimensions are 8 x 3.7 x 7.5 inches and it weighs only 1.2 pounds. The Squinkies fits into the palm of your hands and are so cute and kids will want to collect them all. The surprise element of this game, the toy being packed inside bubble containers, tickles the childish curiosity and adds another attraction to the game. The teapot is pretty and kids like it immediately. Typically it can store 7 Squinkies. The size is a bit smaller, but this makes it east to store and improves its portability. Cupcake and gumball machines are larger and can store lot more stuff. It is a better idea to get one of these accessories with the Squinkies Tea set. This will add fun to the game and the kids will enjoy it more.

The little Squinkies are separately sold in bubble pack series. This Squinkies Tea Time Surprise Playset is therefore a really inexpensive addition to your kid's toy collection. They will play it on for hours together, enjoy it and learn a few good old fashioned things about saving money in the process. This game is hugely popular and is sold out even before Christmas.

Bobble Head Toys For All Occasions

One of the most popular souvenir items is the bobble head doll. Some people know it as a wobbler, a nodder or a bobbing head toy. It got its name from it distinction with other dolls. From the name itself, bobble head dolls are characterized by having a small body compared to its head. The head is attached to a spring and when it is tapped or moved even a little, the head then nods or bobbles. It is like the plaster cats you see on Chinese stores which wag their head when slightly moved. So who created it and how did it become popular? The modern bobble head was first introduced during the 1950's.

Baseball event organizers have produced a bobble head toy series made of paper-mache and this is where people have started to buy it. Great baseball players during that time had their own nodder head version such as Roger Maris, Willie Mays, Roberto Clemente and many more. Another most sought after bobble head collection was of the Beatles. The band had a lot of fans and the bobble head dolls have sold out a lot of numbers. The wobbler fanatics from all over the world would want to have it. But there had been a transition in the use of materials for its manufacture. Some used wood and ceramic after a decade but still, the expenses of making it is still quite high so manufacturers sought of another way to make it less expensive. This is where the plastic bobble head toys came in.

The resurgence of wobbler dolls have been sought again. popular stars, cartoon characters, basketball and soccer players have their figures in miniature bobble head already. And some of them produced in limited quantities to be sought after by collectors. Neiger gifts are still widely produced today. sports organizers to ensure that they had wobbler versions of their greatest players and their food chains like McDonald's souvenir bobble head then. Disney characters and movie stars have their dolls head nodding, too. Collectors searchthese rare finds on eBay and on vintage shops.

Some politicians even have a nodder doll giveaway as a form of political advertisement. Aside from that, these dolls are also used as a design for made-to-order trophies and they come in a variety of sizes and shapes. These bobble head toys are also ideal as a gift item for children and guys who have a huge fan on games such as soccer or baseball.

There are many manufacturers of wobble head toys these days. And the good thing is, you can have a custom made bobble head toy to give your loved ones or as a part of your collection. There are so many sites of bobbing head manufacturers on the internet and the costs may vary. You can specify the size, the color, the design and the material that will be used for your custom nodder. Check out these companies and see their great array of dolls and toys you can choose from.

Baby Favor Bags

So it's time to throw your little one their first real birthday party. You've bought the cake, set up the decorations, planned the activities, and created a guest list. Now it's time to pick out the party favors.

It's vital to remember that the party bags will most likely be given to young children, and their contents therefore must child-safe and most importantly, fun. They should not include small parts that children could choke on, and they must not be made of material that could be harmful if put in a child's mouth. It's your decision if you want to hand out the favors before or after the party. Some people may wish for the children to play with the goodies throughout the party to keep them occupied, while others may feel they divert from the birthday celebration and should be opened at home.

But what should you put in the bags? Items such as play dough and erasable markers are always a hit, as is outdoor sidewalk chalk. Also, most children like animals, so animal crackers or toy zoo animals, whether stuffed or figurines, are fun. You can also buy items in bulk at grocery stores or even a dollar store in your area. These may include bubbles, silly putty, small coloring books, and stickers. Miniature juice boxes are also available, and may be perfect for the ride home from the party.

If your party has a color scheme or theme, it is often easy to find most of these items in a variety of colors and designs. Lastly, you may wish to have a few items for the older children at the party, as what is appropriate for a two year old is not the same as what a nine year old enjoys. Whatever you choose, make sure your party bags are fun for the children and that each bag has the same type and number of items, so as not to cause arguments between the young guests.

Cool Party Favors, Copyright 2009

Construction Toys For Kids From Real Construction

If it's the best construction toys for kids you are searching for then the Real Construction Super Deluxe Workshop must be right on the top of your Christmas buying list. Now you can introduce your young ones to children's educational toys that they'll enjoy, are easy to use and give them long lasting life abilities without them having to take a seat in front of a display screen, whether that's a TV or laptop.

All parents can most likely remember when they or a sibling wished to mimic or take part when one of their parents was doing a little D.I.Y.. I do not know what it is however I clearly remember my brother "throwing one" when my Dad did not allow him to assist on a number of occasions. As we grow up we learn and understand why, tools in the improper hands simply aren't safe. We can all imagine the damage, to property and themselves, that a saw may cause...ouch.

And now I find myself in the very same position. My son, once I'm doing my Do it yourself odd jobs, drives me mad asking to assist. Now the painting and decorating is just not that much of an issue, on the safety front anyway, however those odd occasions I feel it essential to get out my tools, like hammer, saw and drill, he's there, keen as mustard, wanting to assist his Mom. Not a bad idea - he could do it all for me if only he was capable - but you understand, you must have eyes in the back of your head to be able to keep an eye on your little helper and complete the job in hand.

Well, now you may reap the benefits of children's educational toys, in the form of the Real Construction Super Deluxe Workshop to permit your youngsters, sons or daughters, to safely join in those D.I.Y. actions until now were just to unsafe to permit. They will use their very own complete tool kit to saw, hammer, drill and construct just like their parents and grand parents do. All in total safety and with no untidiness or risk of some unimaginable injury.

The set arrives with over one hundred thirty pieces, clearly the vast majority of these are screws and nails but it also has the correct amount of Kids-Wood, building equipment and accessories to deal with the tasks or for your little one to experiment in their own wood working project. On the subject of tools, these construction site toys are well made, looking like they will take the rough and tumble they'll almost definitely receive during their extensive use. They all do the job intended and as that is the costliest set it really does have a thorough tool box full of kids construction toy tools. There is a hand saw and a detail saw, utilized for cutting the wood, along with hammer and screwdriver for fixing together these lengths of wood with the included nails and screws. The tape measure, level and square are great children's educational toys in their own right, educating youngsters numbers, addition, angles and measurement. Include a mitre saw and mitre box, used to produce joints, hole cutters/borers, a number of hinges along with both a cloth tool belt, to keep the tools close at hand when working, and a tool box, to keep everything in when your up-and-coming construction worker is not actually at work, and you begin to see the fantastic value packed into these construction toys for kids.

Transformers Movie 2 Bumblebee Plasma Cannon - Kid's New Favorite Play Toy?

As you probably already know, the second Transformers movie is doing very well at the box office. Kids really love this film and any doubt of this can be resolved by checking out the sales figures. One offshoot of this is many kids leave the theater dreaming of being their favorite Transformers characters. One in particular is Bumblebee. This one is showcased like few others in the second movie and the result is many kids will be wanting to emulate him. The good news for them is that there is a new toy that makes this much easier. The new toy is the Transformers Movie 2 Bumblebee Plasma Cannon. Here, are a few reasons why kids will love it: 

1. Great sound effects and voice options.

Plenty of options here for kids as they can hear a transforming sound as the change from different modes. In addition, they can also play and hear a number of voice commands from the Bumblebee character. These are straight from the movie so it will be even easier for kids to get into their role playing. 

2. Cool choice between the plasma cannon and fist mode.

The main attraction for the Transformers Movie 2 Bumblebee Plasma Cannon is that kids can change the arm from a fist in one mode to a plasma cannon and back again. This is cool because it is just like the on screen presence and is sure to be a big hit with the kids.

3. Makes role playing much easier.

Obviously, with so many neat little features, role playing is going to be easy for kids to enjoy. This toy along with say the Bumblebee Role Play Helmet offers just about whatever fan would like to have. This is also a great idea for Halloween as it provides the first part of the costume. Many kids would be more than happy to take of the rest.

As you can imagine the Transformers Movie 2 Bumblebee Plasma Cannon is going to be a popular toy this year. If early sales are any indication, you can bet smart parents will be getting this for their kids this fall. 

Baby Bath Toys For More Bath Time Fun!

We all love a fresh clean baby, that lovely smell of when they have just had a bath. There is nothing more natural than the combination of babies and a bath. Lots of fun times are spent in the bath, our babies even learn while taking a bath. Over the years our babies spend a lot of time in the "tub".

When you start to think about it there are quite a few bathing items available that make great gifts and will be appreciated by both babies and parents.

First of all, if you are taking a bath you need to have a lovely soft fresh towel waiting. Towels with cute embroidered pictures or personalized with the babies name look great. The ones with a hood are fantastic too. They are such a practical gift that will keep baby comfortable and warm and will get used time and time again.

No bath or baby should go without the traditional duck set, a must in any bathroom. These days you can also get frog sets, or turtle sets. Also, rubber toys that squirt water. Whether it is watching them bop up and down, dunking them or just splashing them in the water they are so much fun and are great for developing and refining motor skills.

A gift set of specially designed baby shampoo, soap, massage oil and face clothes wrapped in a gift box or basket can make a lovely gift. They are soft and delicate on baby's sensitive skin. A great gift idea which is also a necessity.

You can also get some cute puppet mitts which make washing fun, such as ducks, puppy dogs, frogs, etc. With the bright colours and a song or story from mum and dad while washing there is sure to be a smile on everyone's face.

After the serious washing has been done, there are so many other toys to keep bath time fun, such as the water wheel that suctions onto the side of the bath. They come with little buckets/cups; you simply pour the water into the spout and watch the wheel spin and water spurt out everywhere.

Simple suction adhesive shapes make great entertainment they come in animal's shapes, dinosaurs, fish shapes and so many other bright and wonderful themes.

So next time you are thinking of a baby gift idea consider a bath time gift. Baby gifts are bubbles of fun while also adding to everyday learning experiences.

What Kind of Toys Are Helpful For Autistic Children? Find Out

Are you aware of how difficult it is to search for toys for children who have autism? It is difficult, because they do not find the same interest and play with toys as most children do. What is being done about this challenging issue, is, there are more companies and resources to resolve this frustrating problem, by creating toys that are made for the purpose to enhance sight, sound, and texture to create interest to the autisc child.

Autism affects the ability of the child to communicate and interact with others, play, and learn like other children their age. In addition, it has a wide range of characteristics and causes a multitude of different problems. Many children feel uncomfortable interacting with others. They would rather play alone until they feel more conifident and comfortable to interact with others. Most children with autism display a lack of social play or make-believe play.

There has been extensive research on what kinds of toys and play things children with autism most enjoy. Although it will be different for all children, the following are some examples of toys autistic children have found interesting. First, they often enjoy toys that are visually stimulating, like shapes, colors, and something as simple as bubbles. They also enjoy visually stimulating objects like puzzles and interactive books. Toys that stimulate touch, for example, books or toys with flaps and different fabrics or materials, seem to be the toys they gravitate to. Toys that make noise, such as amimals, dolls, or other items that play music or sing songs, are the ones, they enjoy. As a child ages, it is important to incorporate computerized software to assist in developing vocabulary and tasks, for example counting.

To help develop communication skills, play therapy or floor time therapy, is a play technique that incorporates a specific toy to gain interest of the child for playtime. Many children with autism do not relate to play into relationships or communication, so the intent of play therapy is for the child to interact the way they choose to. In addition, if the child chooses to play with a toy car, he or she may choose another car to bump into a different car, forcing them to get away from obsessively focusing on the one car itself, but instead on the act of play.

Many therapists and parents have been through the difficult task of trying to find the right toys for their special needs of children with autism. There were times in the recent past that parents struggled with this problem and could find no answers. Parents, therapists, who are inventive and creative, decided to create toys that would fit the needs of children to play and have fun with. That would help and influence children with autism to be creative also. Advice on toys, that will influence autistic children, have now made parents aware of the numerous outlets that are available. One way to learn about advice on different toys and what would be a good fit for your child, is to search the web sights and find out what would be advantageous for your child.

With the expansion of the internet at your fingertips, you can connect with parents who are currently being challenged with this issue of finding toys, and other parents who have done their research and successfully found what is right for their child, may be helpful for your child. Searching for toys should involve being open to creativeness, new ideas and understanding your child.

Surefire Hit Gift Ideas for Children

Whether it's a holiday or a birthday, kids can be especially hard to buy gifts for. Here are some surefire gift ideas that will make any kid happy.

Games

The best games to get a child are usually the tried and true games that have stood the test of time. These include Candyland, Chutes & Ladders, Monopoly, Battleship, Sorry, Operation and PayDay. These games have been played for generations and are fun for the whole family, as well as the kids.

Toys

The old standby's may be your best bet. These include Barbie's, Lego's, Mr. Potato Head, Hot Wheels, Nerf toys, kitchen and baking play sets, doll houses and remote control cars. Action figures or play sets for the child's favorite TV show or movie are also a great idea.

Educational

Terrific educational gifts include books, the line of VTech, LeapFrog and Leapster electronic learning products, globes, science kits, See 'N Say, wooden blocks and telescopes.

Creativity

Nurture the child's creativity with gifts that allow them to be creative and have fun too. Creative gifts include modeling clay or PlayDoh, craft kits, coloring books, art supplies including markers, crayons and pencils, jewelry making kits, notebooks and journals, EtchASketch, origami kits, Spirographs, sewing kits, bead sets, gardening kits, musical instruments, electronic keyboards and stamp and sticker sets.

Electronics

For electronics items, you can't go wrong with MP3 players, digital cameras, handheld games and video game consoles.

Old Fashioned Games & Toys

Some great old fashioned gifts include puzzles, card games like UNO, bingo and activity books, bubble making toys, an easel, rock tumbler and banks.

Sports Equipment

Most kids, but especially boys, will absolutely love any sports equipment you get them. Consider balls of every kind including baseballs, footballs, soccer balls or basketballs. Accessories like gloves, nets and bats are also great. Wonderful outdoor activity gifts include kites, lawn games, trampolines, tents and tunnels, water toys, playhouses, pogo sticks, bikes, hula hoops and wagons.

Whatever you choose, just make sure the thought comes from your heart and it will surely be a loved gift.

Calypso - The Goldfish Red Cap Diva praying

My fish is a Diva!

I'm not kidding either...

Let me tell you a story about what just happened in the past few days...

It has been an extremely busy week, and I didn't feel like cleaning out Kalypso's 10 gallon fish bowl. She has 2 filters with bubbles and a floaty fish toy that she loves snuggling and pushing around the bowl.

Kalypso has grown quite a bit in size since I got her in the spring. I'd say she's more than doubled in size. So, I got this new 10 gallon bowl just for her as an upgrade from her 5 gallon bowl. A big difference.

Now, when I didn't feel like cleaning out all of her home the other night, I brought out her 5 gallon bowl just for the night (I call it her condominium), so I could clean the 10 gallon in the morning. It was already late at night, mind you.

She had a pretty plant new glass beads at the bottom and fresh water, and she was sitting right next to my computer, so that she could see me!

The next morning, I sat down to check my email and do about 30 minutes of work. Kalypso was fine...Swimming around, happy to see me, etc.

However, I was sitting there no longer than 10 minutes, and all of a sudden, she turned upside down, floating, as if she were dead! No warning of distress, nothing visually wrong with her either.

Freaking out, I called my mother over who turned her right-side up, and moved her back and forth to keep her gills working, as an angler would returning a fish to water.

I rushed to clean up her 10 gallon bowl, fill it and replace her fish friend and filters, etc. It was a panic and a frenzy...

No sooner did we put her back into her large home with her bubbles from her filter, did she change her tune.

Seriously, it was as though she was boycotting, saying, "If I don't have my bubbles, I'll just die!"

I think she was depressed that I took away her huge home, her fish friend and most of all, her bubbles! She loves her bubbles.

Within 1 hour, she had perked up as though nothing ever happened. She's lucky we're so diligent and I love her so much - she's a special fish - because anyone else would have flushed her...She wasn't moving and upside-down.

Boy, did she show me!!! Don't move your fish into a condominium from a huge mansion, especially if there are no BUBBLES involved! They might just die!

How melodramatic!

by Kimberly Edwards

The Many Types of Bath Toys

Bath Toys reasons become popular over the centuries for many. One of them is their use in popular culture, such as bath toys can make a beautiful, young, movie and cartoon feel extravagant. Kids love toys that transform ritual bath in a fun, exciting activities instead of an uncomfortable, restless. The parents, like bath toys for their ability to enchant scream, soap, small dart.

Of all the bath toys, rubberduckies are probably the most popular. They are referred to as rubber "duckies," "duckys," and "ducks," though they reside in acrylic bathtubs instead of ponds. It's an iconic bathtub figure, celebrated in different bathtubs throughout pop culture and modern day industry.

Rubber duckies, unlike ordinary duckies, are made entirely out of rubber or vinyl. Though the most common rubber duckies are vivid yellow in hue, several modern duckies (devil duckies, jester duckies, pirate duckies, skull duckies, etc) are painted in different colors and adorned with tiny pieces of rubber clothing.

The exquisite design of the rubber duck has inspired many interior architects to release new lines of rubber duck bathroom shower fixtures to go with rubber duck bathroom fixtures. Indeed many commercial bathroom fixtures attempt to imitate or accompany the colors and shape of the widely recognized figures. Their attempts were not in vain, though it cannot be denied that the rubber duck goes best with plain porcelain restrooms.

Another common bath toy is the plastic sailboat. The plastic sailboat is not as popular as the rubber duckie. This is because it has several sharp edges and breakable parts that make it an unsuitable companion for especially young and curious bathers. In addition, the rubber duckie has a simple and perfect design, something that a complex boat cannot accomplish. Nevertheless, the plastic sailboat has landed in a close second amongst the rankings of bath toys.

For the safety of your guests, plastic sailboats should not be used in spas. They are extremely useful for hot tubs, however, which also can apply to cheaper inflatable hot tubs. Extremely fancy and sturdy plastic boats make for a novel way of carrying crackers, cheeses, chilled drinks, and delicate electronics while you and your guests lounge around. These boats can be painted to look like pirate ships, toy boats, and other symbols in order to match the theme of your get together.

Plastic Hot Tub Sailboat technology is largely unexplored, so it the toy is used more often in the bathtub nowadays. These little toy boats commonly come with toy marines, tourists, and sailors, which can smile and float in the sudsy sea of the bathwater.

Bubbles are probably the most overlooked, yet most important of all of the bathtub toys. Soap bubbles give the child something soft and harmless to play with. They can put it in their hair, make beards of it, and stuff it in their ears. The best part is that it's clean, affordable, and does not have any sharp edges. Unfortunately, it tastes bad and does not last as long as other toys.

Top Ten Outside Toys for children under twelve

If you are a parent then you are probably aware that in summer can be a difficult time. Parents of children under twelve are constantly dealing with children who are bored. There is only do so many activities in a child. Therefore, it is important for children to play outside in summer.

Outdoor Play in the summer is fun, but many kids summer toys easily bored, with no out. They are the parents of a child who isyounger than twelve years, has a number of options when it comes to buying outdoor toys. Here are ten is a list and brief summary of the most popular outside toys for children under twelve.

(1) The activities of sand and water tables

Sand and water activity tables are tables that children can play in the sand or water almost at the same time. Most tables are divided into two sections. A large number of companies make sand and water activity tables;Therefore, you can use a number of different tables. Most of the sand and water tables are designed for children three years old.

Average price: $ 45 - $ 75

(2) outdoor water sprinkler

For years, outdoor water sprinklers have been the number of children remain without access to the pool during the cool summer. outside sprinklers are available in all different styles. Traditional sprinkler systems can be acquired, but large beach balls, plastic animals andother popular cartoon characters are used as an irrigation system. All outdoor water sprinklers require water by connecting a garden hose.

Average price: $ 5 - $ 30

(3) water guns

Similar to the above mentioned water sprinklers, water guns to stay in a fun way for children without a pool, fresh. water cannons are available in all shapes, sizes and styles. You can use a water pistol that fits in the palm or your hand or you can get one that is so big, it's lifelarge. Large water guns tend to have more power when it comes to water supply. This means that most large water guns are not safe for children under five years.

Average price: 10 - $ 20

(4) Slip and slide water toy

Slip and slides are known as small water slides. You now have a popular outdoor summer toy for children under the age of twelve. Slip and slides work best on a hill, but with running water a child can have funon a flat surface. Many slip and slides are sold with a sprinkler system or a children's pool for fun in miniature more.

Average price: $ 10 - $ 25

(5) inflatable slides

Until recently, the above pool slides water slides toys were only for use at home without it. Now large water slides are available online and in stores around the country. These slides are inflatable and can be as high as three meters in the air. Youhave a mini-pool on the bottom. Because of their size, most water slides for children aged four or five.

Average price: $ 200 - $ 300

(6) sandbox

Currently, sandboxes sit in millions of backyards across the country. When filled with sand, sandboxes offer hours of fun for the whole family. Sandbox can come in a traditional box size or they can come as large plastic animals. Large plastic turtles and crabs are very popular withChildren under five years.

Average price: $ 45 - $ 100

(7) Teeter totters

Many parents and children mistakenly believe that teeter totters intended only for the park. The truth is that a large number of Teeter totters that are designed for backyards of all sizes. Large teeter totters are often linked in the soil, thus making it safe for older children or adults to use. Smaller teeter totters that under portable, and for children,At the age of 10 years can also be purchased.

Average price: $ 40 - $ 80

(8) Grill and Grill Accessories

Toy grills are the most popular outdoor games on the market for a push al. A large number of companies make these grills, so there is a wide range of different designs in many retail stores. The grid can come in all sizes with talking pieces, plastic food and other grill accessories. These grids of toys that children feelas an adult while they cook right alongside their parents.

Average price: $ 20 - $ 60

(9) Children's Wheelbarrow and garden accessories

Children's wheelbarrow can be used for a wide range of outdoor activities. Children can move a wheelbarrow their toys or help their parents in the garden. Most of the carts with additional garden accessories will be purchased for more fun. Children's wheelbarrows in all shapes and sizes, so Children of all ages will enjoy this fun outdoor game.

(10) Bolle

Bubbles have always been a fun toy out, but the creation of additional bubble toys have more fun too. In addition to traditional bubbles, there are now bubble machines. These machines can often hundreds of bubbles in minutes. There are also machines that can be used to create giant> Bolle. In addition to the bubble machines, there are other accessories that are unique bubble shapes and bubble may very.

Average price: $ 5 - $ 20

All toys are the top ten of the above outside the most popular toys for children under twelve. The good news is that almost all these toys are reasonably priced and good for the backyards of almost any size. Why not let your child suffer through aboring summer when large numbers of machines for gaming fun, all at your fingertips?

The Cake Shop Squinkies Surprise: Paradise in a toy

The Squinkies Surprise Cake Bake Shop offers space for a variety of fancy things / games that children with their work as they could carry. In this set of toys, plastic coins are blank and all you have to do is put one of these coins are in the car-shaped cupcake squinkies (you can call it) and turn the knob / button to be fixed, the car launches into a pleasant surprise for the children. What happens is that the plastic bubbles with characters jumping squinkieswith the mission to inspire children. The plastic bladder can be opened easily attach to that for the different colors and plush toys with small, easy to produce in large numbers on either side of the house on the opposite side.

The Squinkies Toy Surprise Cake Bake Shop, on the one hand, cute, small doors, which can be opened by hand or a small toy shop cook. Children love to imitate adults in general, then, again with the dummy Bakerycould play as argued by Baker and sold like sweets and cakes to customers (in this case, their friends). With different types of sentences and with a vast collection of squinkies children can leave their wildest imagination. In inventing creative mini-games, there is no one who plays for children. The cake shop Squinkies Surprise is a medium that helps in the development of creativity in growing children.

Children usually throwing things around after or during use. InSquinkies Surprise Cake Bake Shop, the bubbles that the character can be shaped cupcake machine restored back into the slots, so nothing is lost and can play the day after that. Children may not realize that things need to be restored at the end of the day, it's their parents or other elders, who should teach them what is so even their parents, to a certain extent, the responsibility for cleaning and teach children in their growing years.

Birthday Partiesare times when children are expected to get plenty of gifts from others. Sometimes people are simply getting any idea of when you think that presents a child is given the child's age and something that the child could play. The Squinkies Surprise Cake Bake Shop would be the ideal choice for a gift to a child grow up to be especially a girl. This toy, in addition to playing fantasy purposes even when the window.

Sun Squinkies Pastry Bake is a Surprisecould the children what they like best and look also help parents with joy, to grow their community to engage.

Club Penguin Puffles

The famous Club Penguin is a "game" or a "virtual life", a website for children aged three years fifty-six teenager. On this side are part of a world covered with snow. Fit together like penguins and a life too. Each player or penguin, play and earn enough money to buy things and the needs of a penguin.

He has been invited to parties and get in free. They have a furniture and can start their igloos the way they want. Members can alsoIgloo theme.

Each player can have a pet penguin "puffle. Puffles are small, furry creatures. These are commercially available in pet stores. Puffles are available in different colors such as pink, purple, red, blue, green and black. But these colors only for members of Club Penguin, the advantage of having that up to 12 Puffles. Non-members can only choose between the colors red or blue and can only hold two at a time.

All shades of PufflesPrinciple to define the different breeds are available in So basically six colors are the different types of Puffles and differ for each temperament and character as the rose are energetic and happy, good dancers are the purple and how to blow bubbles, red are adventurous, the blue ones are the quietest of the lot, the green is very playful and already a black attitude. Yellow Puffles to enter this world toosoon.

There are a lot of fun to a puffle as a pet, the more you have the better. Each has a unique personality and master of all penguin penguin reacts differently.

Secrets about scented candles

Most likely you've seen beautiful scented candles at your favorite store for over $20. Did you know you can make great-smelling, long-lasting candles at home for no more than a few dollars? When you learn how to make scented candles you're able to incorporate your own scents and colors into a candle that will look perfect in your home and create a comfortable and relaxing setting for you to enjoy. Here's a guide to discover how to make scented candles yourself.

Are you wondering what you need to learn how to make scented candles at home? Wax is your main ingredient. Paraffin wax is the best type for candles and can be found at your grocery store. You'll also need a wax pouring pot (a metal pot with a handle), a wax thermometer, a candle wick, liquid color, a mold and, of course, a scent! You can get scents in different forms, such as liquid or solid. While liquid is a bit trickier to use, it lasts longer and smells stronger.

Now, design your candle, choosing the Shape, color and fragrance. pillar candles are the easiest to do and pillar shapes can also be found very easily. You can also special order various forms, by attempting to connect to shapes such as flowers. The sky is the limit when it comes to the form of a candle!

The next step is deciding how to melt the wax. Try a clean heat source that, when should you pour wax on them can be used. The plates are commonly used as they scrape the wax from the surface, use it anywhere you choose, anddon't have to worry about wax on your kitchen cooking source.

Now melt the wax. Place the wax in the pouring pot, clip the thermometer on the side and let the wax melt, never letting the temperature rise above 300 degrees F. After the wax has melted add your color. If you're using chip color use about one full diamond chip per pound of wax. After the color is stirred and mixed, add your scent. Use one ounce of liquid scent per pound.

Ready the mold when you're prepared to begin. Add the wick on the bottom of the mold and tie the top of the wick a bit 'long, like a spoon. Pour the wax into the mold very slowly to the side to release bubbles knock. Allow to cool growth, with more if the candle wax drops.

Once the candle is completely cool, remove from the mold. Cut the wick from the bottom of the candle and cut the tip. Now that you've learned how to make scented candles for you! Never use the money in the store to buy expensive scented candles againnow that you can make beautiful candles themselves at a fraction of the cost. Thanks for reading and learning more about your candles.

Towable Tubes - Can They Be Repaired?

Over the summer you used your favorite ski tube everyday and let's face it, these air filled toys do get abused. They are constantly flying in and out the wake and at high speeds. The manufacturers do everything they can to make a high quality dependable product. They are made for abuse but everything has it's breaking point and your favorite towable tube just met it's breaking point. Is it a point of no return? Can it be repaired or are you going to have to shell out some cash to buy a new one?

These days just about anything can be repaired and most of the times the repairs will last quite a while. If you are like me then you love to save a buck or two. By doing repairs yourself you can save hundreds of dollars. You can then take that money that you saved and treat yourself to something nice!

The most common thing that happens to these air filled tubes is, a small leak. These leaks are extremely easy to fix, if you find them quickly. If you ignore the leak, it will only get worse and if the hole gets to large, it will be beyond repair.

The hard part can be finding the darn leak! The easiest way to find the leak, is to take the tube out to the water. Get yourself a mask and a snorkel because you are going to have to get in and find this leak. Once you are in the water examine every inch of the tube from underwater. The leak will be easy to spot this way. You will see tiny bubbles coming from it. Once you find the leak, mark it with a permanent marker.

Good Gift Ideas For Kids: The World Of Squinkies

Looking for another good gift idea for the kids on your shopping list? Then check out The World of Squinkies!

So what is a Squinkie? Well, they are small squeezable toys that come in their own bubble containers that fit right in the palm of your hand. There are birds, ponies, kittens, puppies, and many other little creatures to captivate your child's imagination. These cute little critters are a good gift idea for any kid on your wish list.

The World of Squinkies has places for all sorts of different creatures and items such as princesses and treasures. Kids love to keep building their collection by trading with friends until they create their own little wonderful World of Squinkies.

Another great feature is that every little creature comes with a special prize inside. This gets the kids really excited by adding an element of surprise to the experience. They really love to share and trade the prizes with friends.

Squinkies even have their own website! Kids can join friends online to further expand the World of Squinkies. They can play games and watch videos dedicated to each Squinkie character that give each one their own unique identity. Kids can also join the Squinkie Fan Club online to get notified of upcoming special released and discontinuations

The World of Squinkies is also a great opportunity for adults to get involved with their child's hobbies at a young age. People of all ages can enjoy collecting, trading and playing with their kids for hours and hours of fun.

Remember, Squinkies are a wonderful world of fun for your kids and their friends. A world that you can also have fun with as well! Enjoy becoming a kid again with your little ones and grab this good gift idea before it sells out in stores. It's a time that can't be replaced.

The Wonder That is Bubble Wrap

The temptation to package burst the bubbles of bubble wrap is almost irresistible for many people, but how they do it in a plastic protective film? Well, it was the creation of two engineers, Alfred Fielding and Marc Chavannes, which came almost by accident. Originally, the proposed use of the plastic guard was like a wallpaper of plastic, but it was quickly determined that the product is most suitable products in the damping system was. After the discoveryof bubble wrap the pair of engineers founded the Sealed Air Corporation in 1960.

The product starts life as polyethylene resin which is melted down and formed into two sheets of clear plastic film. One of the sheets is then wrapped around a drum which has holes punched into it and the suction is then consequently applied drawing the film into the holes to create bubbles. The second layer of film is then placed onto the first and laminated on to in order to trap the bubbles which have been created. There is a process which ensures that the air cannot escape which occurs during this process; however it is a trade secret of the Sealed Air Corporation.

Bubble wrap is available in several sizes and forms from large heavy duty rolls for large objects to small Bubble Bags for protecting lighter objects. The diameter of the bubbles ranges from 6mm to 25mm and the height of the bubbles can be anywhere up to 44mm.

The uses for bubble wrap when protecting products are endless and its invention has lead to many variations of the product. One of the most common ways is to protect an item during transit using a Bubble Bag. Consumers can Buy Bubble Bags in order to protect glass objects being scratched or damaged amongst other things. Another variation of bubble wrap is adhesive bubble wrap which has a sticky side which will stick to almost any surfaces. The obvious use for this is to line the inside of packages in order to protect the contents.

In summary bubble wrap was an entirely accidental discovery which has greatly benefitted the packaging industry and has solved the problem of damaged goods. It is perhaps one of the most effect methods of keeping products safe in transit, and lets face it once it arrives it is always fun to play with it and pop the bubbles.

How to Make the Perfect Easter Basket for Your Toddler

Browsing online, I saw a toddler Easter basket selling for $65. Since when does a parent have to spend so much money on a basket filled with a stuffed animal, candy and plastic grass for a two-year old? You can spend a lot less and create a basket that's even better because it's tailor made just for your child.

Here's how you make a perfect Easter basket that will not break the bank and make a great impression on your terrific toddler:

1. Start with a basket you already have at home. Don't buy that Easter basket at the grocery store that you will use once and then pitch into your garage to be lost forever. Can't find a basket? Look for a small plastic storage bin, decorate a shoe box, or extra plastic wastebasket. Nix the cellophane wrap.

2. Skip the candy and load up on healthier treats instead. Your toddler's favorite fruits or crackers will do just fine. Or try a new brand of cracker. If your toddler is asking for candy, just include one small chocolate egg or a few peeps. Remember the less your toddler is exposed to candy, the better!

3. Instead of filling plastic eggs with candy, fill them with beans instead. Tape them up with colorful electrical tape and you've got a new shaker instrument. You can also fill the eggs with small toys or stickers.

4. Include items you need to buy anyway: a toothbrush with one of your child's favorite characters, nice socks, new character underwear or pajamas.

5. Great toys to include are inexpensive items like crayons, sidewalk chalk, coloring books, toy cars, stickers, play doh, rubber duckies and other toys for the bath.

6. Celebrate the coming of spring with some outdoor activity toys like a Frisbee, bubbles, or ball.

7. Write them a simple note that says "I love you" or "Happy Easter." Encourage them to say each letter in your note.

Create your basket with your toddler in mind. Include some of his or her favorite things and you'll be sure to have a hit! And it will cost you a lot less than $65.

Kalypso - The Diva Red Cap Oranda Goldfish

My fish is a Diva!

I'm not kidding either...

Let me tell you a story about what just happened in the past few days...

It has been an extremely busy week, and I didn't feel like cleaning out Kalypso's 10 gallon fish bowl. She has 2 filters with bubbles and a floaty fish toy that she loves snuggling and pushing around the bowl.

Kalypso has grown quite a bit in size since I got her in the spring. I'd say she's more than doubled in size. So, I got this new 10 gallon bowl just for her as an upgrade from her 5 gallon bowl. A big difference.

Now, when I didn't feel like cleaning out all of her home the other night, I brought out her 5 gallon bowl just for the night (I call it her condominium), so I could clean the 10 gallon in the morning. It was already late at night, mind you.

She had a pretty plant new glass beads at the bottom and fresh water, and she was sitting right next to my computer, so that she could see me!

The next morning, I sat down to check my email and do about 30 minutes of work. Kalypso was fine...Swimming around, happy to see me, etc.

However, I was sitting there no longer than 10 minutes, and all of a sudden, she turned upside down, floating, as if she were dead! No warning of distress, nothing visually wrong with her either.

Freaking out, I called my mother over who turned her right-side up, and moved her back and forth to keep her gills working, as an angler would returning a fish to water.

I rushed to clean up her 10 gallon bowl, fill it and replace her fish friend and filters, etc. It was a panic and a frenzy...

No sooner did we put her back into her large home with her bubbles from her filter, did she change her tune.

Seriously, it was as though she was boycotting, saying, "If I don't have my bubbles, I'll just die!"

I think she was depressed that I took away her huge home, her fish friend and most of all, her bubbles! She loves her bubbles.

Within 1 hour, she had perked up as though nothing ever happened. She's lucky we're so diligent and I love her so much - she's a special fish - because anyone else would have flushed her...She wasn't moving and upside-down.

Boy, did she show me!!! Don't move your fish into a condominium from a huge mansion, especially if there are no BUBBLES involved! They might just die!

How melodramatic!

by Kimberly Edwards

Safe: Children's Toys Great Gift

Most importantly, unless you are positive as to everything you want to buy, you will want to purchase your gift basket last. You do not want to have to choose what you will give based on the size of the basket you have already bought.

Select an assortment of the safest toys for the baby.

A few great ideas are to purchase items such as classical or other instrumental music to play in the nursery, perhaps even some sing-along music, for when the child gets a bit older and begins to imitate speech.

Another idea is to buy the baby a mobile. These items, however, are very popular for baby showers, so check with your other friends to make sure the mother is not bombarded with dozens of mobiles.

The best books for infants will be waterproof and therefore drool proof. If books are a part of the child's life from the beginning, he or she is more likely to become a more intelligent individual. So even at the earliest stages of a baby's life, books are important. Books with different textures, colors, and things for the child to touch like little flaps that lift to reveal something once the child is touching and investigating and not sucking on everything in sight.

Teething rings. Believe me mommy will need them. There are great teething rings available that the child can hold on his or her own and that will help soothe the pain of teething without having to use too much medicine to numb the baby's gums.

Another great idea for toys in the cart contained in a child is a gift of natural things, such as bells, mirrors for the crib or playpen, and perhaps even a crib or playpen - which would be a gift for that! Of course, you want to see if the mother already has a crib or playpen for the first child.

Hikers are perfect for the new baby, not only to help him or her learn to play on foot, but also as a different place when the child is sick in her crib or playpen. There are also hikersfunction for eating, bet the better ones I believe are the walkers that have toys attached to them. This way the baby will stay entertained, and you will not have to worry about picking up dropped toys.

Another great idea for gift baskets for babies is to get a bottle of bubbles. They are non-toxic, of course, but even the smallest baby will be enthralled with the bubbles floating down.

There are many kinds of baby toys out there that you could include in your baby gift basket. I hope some of these ideas can help you.

Bubble Machine

I still like bubble

During childhood, I like everything and do not use, the bubbles Dass fact, using my mother, myself, the courts most of the time the push of a detergent on the bottom of the pool and allows me to fill with water. It 'been so exciting for me, but I enjoyed it even more bubbles. I had some bubble maker, too! I did make just the right mixture of water and soap may> Bubble sticks better than the ones you buy in stores, and even the air pressure was enough to blow bubbles as possible.

I realized how good of a mechanical ventilator bubble work

Looking at my car the first bubble, but I knew I had it all wrong. It was not a bubble machine, in reality so much as a giant bubble maker. Basically it was a ring of fabric moving at the end of a long pole, and might hugeBubbles bigger than my head. It 'was a birthday gift, and I would play with him for hours from now on. It 'was my very favorite toy in the world.

But later I found a couple of machines, the bubble could burst, that way (no pun intended). I once had a bubble gun that was actually a magic wand with a fan behind it, but it worked well, I do not know that after my first bubble machine, I noticed how even a mechanical ventilator bubblecould work!

Bubble Machine - awesome!

I was a DJ of the time, and the bubble machine was something that I had borrowed business partner, a good friend from the same period. I had never heard of bubble machines, but when I finally saw one, I was fantastic! E 'put out a literal swarm of air bubbles in the air and over the whole space. I had never seen anything like it, and all the dancers seemed to love it. Since then I havedecided that I needed to have one. I bought my own bubble machine, presumably for parts. However, I would like to work at home more often. I liked it, and found that all the years that passed, I still had the same passion for soap bubbles. It 's nice to know that there are some things that never change.

Toy Squinkies - # 1 reason parents should buy this toy

Squinkies surprise inside is a small toy doll toy, come in plastic gumballs. (The toy distributors in supermarkets) for children to open pop anxious to see what is inside the toy Squinkies. These dolls are figures such as animals, animals, fairies and little people Squinkies. Often described as "soft, squooshy and soft, there are already several hundred Squinkies collect.

They are sold in> Bubble-Pack series and set of game and can be used, pencil toppers, jewelry and toys to play, obviously. One of the goals of most children are Squinkies series to collect all in one, and the manufacturer, toys Blip, a new series to keep their interest are always fresh.

These hundreds of small toy doll is now spur Kid's ideas about how to be "to create the scenes and villages and their own jewelry bracelets and MixingAdaptation to different Squinkies. Children are the exchange and trade, and its system of small-commerce, because they have so many different dolls Squinkies as they strive to achieve.

Children will beg Squinkies this season, but the # 1 reason that parents should buy is that they are great "reward" for good behavior! When children behave when they are - they get a Squinkies. Make your bed, your room clean, doing promotional duties - Squinkies. All parents know that childrenTo do what you want (or what it should), much faster if they know they have a reward!

The concept of getting a "premium" enhanced if Squinkies Gumball Machine Play September It 'exactly what the name suggests, Gumball-like, once donor Squinkies surprise inside plastic ball when you insert a coin and the purge button. Imagine the tension in which the child is waiting anxiously to see what their"Reward."

The toy includes Squinkies;

Squinkies Bubble Packs - 16 different games in each pack

Play Set:

Collection Pastry Surprise Gumball Machine Play HouseGumball Settee Time Machine Play Surprise Surprise SetPalace's Plat

Mini-Set:

Under the Mar-a-SurprizeBride SurprizeShopping Royal Fun Fun Surprise Surprise

JewellerySets: (Squinkies bracelets with interchangeable)

Birthday Surprise Surprise SurprizePrincess Fantasy

The real number one reason parents should buy toys Squinkies is that, like educational toys that help children in their early development, Squinkies will help shape positive behavior that their will to make life, and you, very much easier .

It's in the Bag, the Party Favor Bag That Is

The purse for the party is always a need for the party.

Organizing a party, more and more people these days need more party favor gift bag or believe - that a party is to be preferred? Is there a way to say thank you to the party guests. Keep a small gift as a memento of the occasion. This is not mandatory, was part of keeping up with the Jones', is something that most people at least consider. Kids Party 'does not favor bagsbe expensive, as such, but must prove that thinking.

The support group of kids bags - the bags themselves - should not be shiny, complicated or expensive. Most shops sell stationery bag with handles, those durable enough for a reasonable price. Like what you put in them - well, that depends on you, on the theme of your party and your budget. For a children's party there are many ideas gift bag can be used to fill this simple gift bags.

Thinkthe theme of the party. Pulling one out of thin air, let's go for "football". If the kids attending the party are interested in football, then they will be glad to receive some football theme filled party favor bags - a squishy, foam-rubber ball, perhaps, or a figurine depicting a player. If the theme is something else, such as "horses", then the gifts can again be themed towards that subject. There are temporary tattoos, sticker sheets, bubbles, and even fun, inexpensive craft kits that would all be great party favor ideas for kids. The party itself should not be about the gifts or the bags, but the gift bags should accentuate the occasion.

One thing that can make kids' party gift bags stand out is the way they are presented. You can buy them plain and then decorate them - indeed, this shows a welcome personal touch. Depending on how you have chosen the gifts, you may even personalize the contents and the exterior of the bag for each kid. If, for example, it is a football related party, you can draw the logo of their favorite team on the bag (ask your kid to find this information out, or squeeze the kid's parents for info). The more thoughtful the gifts, the better. And every child who receives a party favor bag will leave the party happy as can be.

Halloween Hype: Do You Dig It?

Halloween, for some of us, means the beginning of the two and a half month Holiday sugar binge!

For me, my discipline stops dead about two weeks before Halloween when I figure I will buy a bag of candy to "be prepared." It has to be the "cool" candies...which are some of the ones I like the best. I do the same thing every year. It's a pattern I have formed. And I can guarantee it won't be there come Halloween evening! It's in my belly instead. Have to test them out for the children, you know!

So on Halloween I run out and buy extra stash. And the leftovers? Where do you think they land? Hint: can't waste any.

The saddest part of this sugar binge: it keeps right on going...right through Xmas. And I am so embarrassed that I can't control it. And while my husband never says a word....I can just imagine what he is thinking as he watches the effects it has on me: The mood swings, the weight gain, the run down feeling and worst of all the constant need for more! My energy seems to walk right out the door. This cycle will last until just after New Years' Eve when I make my promises to get off the sweets.

I know that I am not alone. Last year, $1.89 billion dollars was spent on Halloween candy. ( I only spend about $20, I swear!)

While that temporary sugar high may not kill you instantly, it does do serious damage to our hearts and for adult onset diabetes. As I am writing this article, I am thinking that I would save money and my health if I just went away for 3 weeks to a health spa! OK OK...not realistic for me either!

So what can I do different to help myself and what can I do to help those kids so they do not have to develop the same problem with sugar that I have?

I think we should "think outside the candy wrapper"...and come up with ways to celebrate and have fun...but not with candy!

Here are a few giveaways that will help you:

1. Go to Oriental Trading and purchase some small great toys like bubbles, balls, tops, games, balloons, and the list goes on. 2. The dollar store oftentimes has some great little giveaways..any sort of toy. 3. Pre-sealed little packs of apples 4. Pretzels packs 5. Change - pennies or nickels 6. A small package that includes a balloon or two and direction on how to conduct an easy experiment with the balloon..I have done this one...and it went over really well.

If you have children at home, having a party with some great snacks is a wonderful plan. Have some spooky games planned so the kids are active and moving! Have them practice and give a play, learn how to tell jokes, recite a poem, tell their favorite story.....

Or, a few parents can get together and "divide and conquer" together. You can surf the we for some special, spooky, yummy recipes other families have created. You can also go to http://getthegoodness.com for some amazing snack recipes that can be customized for just about any holiday.

Halloween doesn't have to be the beginning of the sugar season anymore.. It can still be fun and eventful without doing damage.

Remember, if it is not pre-packed, do not give hand it out. It will most likely be thrown out...by the parents. Have a safe and spooky Halloween!

To Your Health!!!

Gretchen Jack, CrushSugarCravings.com

How to Give a Baby a Bath

Bath time is a great opportunity to play with your child. Provide toddler toys for bath time, such as a floating rubber duck. Your baby will discover sense of touch and sensation while taking a bath. For baby and mommy, it can be scary to give baby a bath for the first time.

You can ask a partner so you would not scare yourself from dropping your child. Two things you should remember when giving baby a bath are: you should not leave baby unattended at the bath tub - even for a moment, and never put hot water when baby is in the bath tub. Also, you should give him plastic toddler toys so that your child is kept busy while you wash and soap him.

What you should prepare for bath time: a bath tub for baby, baby rubber pad to put on the bottom of the tub, soft baby towel, soft baby hair brush, mild shampoo, lukewarm water, sponges and a tray of toiletries.

Follow these simple step-by-step instructions:

1. Put 2 inches of warm water in the bath tub. Hold your baby or let someone hold him while you gently wash away loose skin. Place a warm cloth over his belly to prevent your child from getting cold. Keep a hand on him while taking him a bath.

2. Give your baby toddler toys for bath. That way your baby can play while you give a nice warm bath. This will ensure a good bath and baby would not thought of crying because he is entertained by the bubbles and toys surrounding him.

3. Wash your baby gently and thoroughly at areas like genital, hands, feet, face, neck, arm pits and skin with diaper rashes. Mildly soap armpits and behind the ears. Wash your baby's hair with gentle no-tears shampoo. Lastly, wash your baby's hair thoroughly to avoid soap particles.

Bath time is more fun with toddler toys fit for baths. This would ease their fears as they get focused on their toys floating around their tub. Also, baths should not be too long or else baby would get chilled since warm water would get cold after few minutes. Baby bath needs to be thorough and gentle. The most important is to never leave your baby alone - even for a moment. Babies do cry for the first few baths due to unfamiliar touch of water.

The water may scare them but you know what to do. Give him toddler toys to play with while you give baby a bath. Always keep the room temperature warm and the bath water at the tub. As what we said, never put warm water when baby is in the tub. Soothe your baby by playing a bubbly song and soon he will surely wait for the next day's splash of baby bath.

When your baby caught rashes all over his body, you could ask a pediatrician a suitable baby shampoo for his body. Don't just use any shampoo, always ask your doctor and let your baby have a check up.

Bulk Party Favors - You Will Be Happy to Know They Exist

Getting ready for a big birthday party? Do you want to know a great resource that people don't often think about? Bulk Party Favors. One of the many reasons to go with bulk is to get the cost down. If you have more than one child and more than one birthday party, bulk favors can really help out. Or, if you accidentally invited the whole neighborhood to your 3-year old's first birthday bash, and you need a lot of little things to go in their party bag, buying bulk will make all the difference.

So, now that you have that vital information running around in your head, you may be asking yourself what exactly is available in the bulk party favor department. Well, here's where it gets fun. There are so many options, it is almost staggering. And the great news is...there is something for everyone. You can get gender specific and theme specific too.

Check out the list below to get those wheels turning.

Boys: Bouncing balls, small animals, insects (ew!), tooting horns, cards, toy cars, and army guys--just to get started.

Girls: Rings, bracelets, necklaces, lip gloss, stickers, crayons, and crafts--to name a few.

Something for Everyone: pinwheels, plastic eggs to fill with candy, crayons, bubbles, pencils, fun erasers, pens, and lots and lots of candy.

Visit a party store and you will be pleasantly surprised at the myriad of things to choose from. Their favors aren't just plain, simple little things. Many are in interesting shapes and colors, or match a particular theme, like soccerball tooting horns or zoo animal bubbles. Party stores also carry holiday specific items, such as red and white pinwheels for Valentine's Day, or Shamrock shaped lollypops for Saint Patrick's Day. The options are seemingly endless.

Once you get started, you will probably have a harder time stopping than you think. There are so many cute things out there. Fun toys to play with, bubbles to blow, crafts to put together. Get an idea of what crowd you are trying to please, and stock up with Bulk Party Favors. Just don't forget the party bags. You can go with plain colored paper, printed cellophane, sports themes, or holiday themes. The choices are phenomenal. There are bags to match any occasion, and any theme. And, as you remember when you were little, half the fun of the party was getting your own little gift to go home with.

Gumball Surprise Playhouse

The small toys those are amusing and pleasurable to play alone or with friends known as Squinkies are included in the set called Gumball Surprise Playhouse. This is an exciting toy set that small children will enjoy playing together.

What makes this toy set really adorable is the feature of a gumball machine where you can place your Squinkies and have a wonderful time turning the dial to let one Squinkie get out. Made of soft rubber and durable plastic, the small figurines are portable and are usually stored inside a plastic "bubble home". When you place your Squinkies inside the gumball machine, your objective in playing the Gumball Surprise Playhouse is to have fun releasing them one by one.

The toy set is so colorful and attractive to small children that they are bound to be mesmerized by it. In other words, your small children will be bound at home and spend more time playing rather than getting bored. The Gumball Playhouse surprise is big and exciting to be a key element in the game room of your house.

Have you ever tired of cute characters called Squinkies? Perhaps it is love that they have with you. Want to have your Squinkies a Gumball machine? Whatever your answer will be, will surely love the Playhouse Gumball Surprise! Just the thought of a clever touch play your Squinkies will tickle your fancy, what the Gumball machine can do the littlechildren.

Watch how the kids will take turns to place their favorite Squinkies into the gumball machine and turn the dial to let them slide down the opening. You will be amazed how such simple contraption can bring so much curiosity and appeal to small children.

Squeezable miniatures comfortably secured by bubble-type homes inside the yellow, green, and purple gumball machine are like the gumballs that you buy by placing coins into the coin slot. When the Squinkies in transparent balls fall out of the gumball machine, they are exciting for the kids as they watch eagerly which of the miniatures inside the gumball machine will fall out first.

The Gumball Surprise Playhouse is a sure winner if small children will be asked to pick out from among toys on display at a toy store. It shall be one of the top picks of the kids. It deserves this recognition.

Hot Christmas Toy - Squinkies Cupcake Surprise Bakeshop

Squinkies are one of the hottest Christmas toys to hit toy shops this year - and for good reason. Barely one inch each, their presence is many times larger. Available in packs of 16 pieces, Squinkies range from kitties and babies to puppies and ponies.

Six packs are on offer, each covered with protective bubbles. Part of the rapture for kids is that they do not know which kind they are getting until the frosted bubble packaging is unwrapped. And that only the characters. There is more than Squinkies to make the cake a surprise Bakeshop and other accessories.

The Gumball Surprise Playhouse is like a gumball machine. And give a little figures, instead of rubber bullets, and can store up to fifteen different parts. The Pencil Topper Accessories bracelet birthday surprise and the surprise of other accessory kit with pieces that your child can accessorize Squinkies different.

Do you want your little toy bearrings or bracelets? Want them on your pencil as you write? Mix and match parts of the wardrobe to come up with customizable Squinkie toys.

And then, the piece de resistance - the Squinkies Cupcake Surprise Bakeshop. It's shaped like a cupcake, and the piece doubles as a play station when the sides are opened up. You put a coin into a slot, then turn a dial. It will automatically dispense a storage bubble - inside which is one of the Squinkies characters!

The toy is a lot of fun for little ones who simply love the way it throws up one character after another, each cutely wrapped and instantly delivered on the press of a button. It is for good reason that the Squinkies Cupcake Surprise Bakeshop is one of the hottest Christmas toys this year, and it appears as if this popularity will continue well into the New Year as well.

If you're looking to buy one for your child, be sure to read the many reviews online (including one on my website) before placing your order online or picking it up at your toy store. But hurry, because demand is peaking and supplies won't last forever.