The Shopping Mama

Radio Flyer Build-A-Trike: Amazing Custom Tricycle Designed by You! {Review}

by Kate on May 17th, 2013 | 5 Comments | Reviews, Toys

Radio Flyer has been creating toys for outdoor play for nearly 100 years and we are all familiar with its iconic red wagon. Despite its long history, the company offers a decidedly modern and innovative program to build a completely custom wagon or tricycle. We are delighted Radio Flyer provided us the opportunity to build a tricyle for Max.

Build a Smile, Build an Adventure, Build a Trike!

The Build-A-Trike program on RadioFlyer.com is a blast! It’s easy to use, with a preview that updates as you add and change features so you always know what you’re going to get. There are a surprising amount of options – everything from the style of tricycle to the fabric color to adding speakers.

The base tricycle includes the removable steering handle that allows parent to aid (or have control) over where your little one goes. The telescoping handle moves up and down and is angled for parent comfort. It can truly substitute for a stroller, and is perfect as toddlers grow and want independence but aren’t ready to walk on their own. Your child can peddle as you guide or rest his feet on the foot rests and just enjoy the ride.

The first choice in customizing your trike? Pink or classic red tricycle. Next you can chose to add upgraded tires. If, like us, you’re going to use the tricycle as a stroller of sorts, we definitely recommend the upgrade. The all-terrain air-filled rubber tires are impressive, measuring 10 inches in diameter and 3.5 inches wide. They are perfect for rolling on the sidewalk and over rougher terrain like mulch and rocks.

There are two storage options: the included bucket or basket upgrade. The basket provides more storage space and is really helpful on our walk to the bus stop commute as it frequently holds a backpack or drink or snacks.

The next set of upgrades transform the tricycle from a classic trike to a stroller trike or somewhere in between. We added the headrest and seatbelt with seatpad and the wrap around tray to keep Max steady and secure. The UV blocking canopy is a great option for those of you in sunny locales.

The wrap-around tray provides 360 degree support for younger toddlers and includes a drink holder. The headrest and seatbelt include a three-point harness for safety. Both the tray and the headrest piece are removable so the tricycle grows as your child develops. There are three fabric choices for the seatpad and canopy.

The classic bell is a must-have (and very affordable $5) upgrade. I honestly think this is my favorite part of the tricycle – and maybe it’s just because Max can actually do it himself. He looks so proud when he rings the bell!

The parent pouch snaps on the handle has a large pocket on one side and a smaller pouch on the other, which is perfect for a cell phone.

Personalize your creation with a name plate of up to 2 lines and 20 characters. For true luxury, add the Safeguard speaker system with waterproof case so you can play music from your iPad or MP3 player while on the go.

Max’s Custom Trike

We absolutely adore Max’s Custom Tricyle. It is obviously really cool to have a custom tricycle we designed, but the best part about it is the Radio Flyer quality. We knew as we were assembling the tricycle that it was different from others we’ve had. Each part and piece has a weight and heftiness that signifies the quality of the materials. From the rubber on the tires to the padded handlebar, every detail of the trike is amazing.

But, of course, as a mom the thing I like the best about the Radio Flyer Trike is how much Max enjoys it. It’s an easy way to please him if he’s fussy, and, yes, I have resorted to putting him in his tricycle in the kitchen while I’m cooking dinner.

Shop! Whether you add one single option or all the accessories, the Radio Flyer Build-A-Trike program allows you to get the perfect tricycle for you. The base tricycle starts at $75 and goes up to $205 if you opt for all the bells (literally) and whistles. Start your summer on the right ~~foot~~ wheel and preorder now for June 1 shipment.

Thanks to Radio Flyer for providing a sample. Photos by Catherine Murton for The Shopping Mama.

Bright Starts Count ‘N Roll Buggie {Review & Giveaway}

by Kate on April 21st, 2013 | 5 Comments | Baby, Giveaways, Reviews, Toys

There’s no question stores are packed with a variety of baby and children’s toys often making it difficult to determine which are worth your money and which are not. After seeing our thirteen month old play with the Bright Starts Count ‘n Roll Buggie, we have no doubt this toy falls squarely in the “definitely worth your money” category.

Count ‘n Roll Buggie

The Count n Roll Buggie was a hit from the moment we set it on the floor for Max. At thirteen months old, he’s at a really fun stage where he seems to learn something new every day. This fun toy has definitely helped to teach him cause and effect – and the sweet music hasn’t hurt his dance moves either (see the video below!).

Here’s how the Buggie works: powered by 3 (included) AA batteries, it counts balls as you put them in the colorful Buggie. After counting to 3, the Buggie scoots around the floor, spinning the balls in the see-through back, and then her wings open and the balls go falling onto the floor.

The movement of the Buggie and the scattered balls encourage your child to move and follow the action. If you ask Max, though, I think he’d say his favorite part is the music. He loves to bounce along to the playful tunes. He’s not particularly patient when waiting for the balls to come out of the back of the Buggie and prefers, instead, to tackle the toy and grab the balls. When the Buggies hits most obstacles (other than grabby toddlers), it bounces and spins to keep moving.

Having a Ball with Bright Starts Buggie Video

See the Bright Starts Count N Roll Buggie in action! Obviously I’m a little biased, but I think this video is ADORABLE and definitely shows how much Max enjoys playing with the toy.

To Buy or Not to Buy

To Buy… An entertaining and engaging baby and toddler toy for under $20? Yes, please. The Bright Starts Count ‘N Roll Buggie has been a hit with our 13 month old from the first time he set his chubby hands on it, and so far it has survived his tackle-and-love form of play.

Or Not to Buy… Make sure you keep track of the balls because they are a key part of the fun. They fall out of the toy every time they are put in so be sure to turn it off when you’re finished playing to keep everything stored together.

Shop! The Bright Starts Count n Roll Buggie is $17.99 at Target online and in stores nationwide.

Win! A Bright Starts Count ‘N Roll Buggie!

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This review was made possible by Double Duty Divas and Bright Starts. I was provided the featured product free of charge to facilitate my review, but all opinions are 100% mine.

Mega Bloks Barbie Play Set {Review & Giveaway} #buildbarbiesworld #spon

by Kate on April 15th, 2013 | 5 Comments | Giveaways, Reviews, Toys

I will be totally honest right up front: I was biased against the idea of Mega Bloks Barbie before the play set arrived at our house to test. First, as a women’s college educated woman, I give Barbie the side eye. She’s just so pretty and curvaceous and Barbie. Second, I know I’ll be putting together the little pieces of the play set and finding them around the house. Doubts aside, my kids – both my six year old boy and four year old girl – were totally smitten with this play set and have spent hour upon hour playing together peacefully over Barbie’s Pool Party Play Set.

My six year old took an active role in putting the Play Set together. He has a thing for rules and loved reading and following the directions to create the pool setting. My four year old hung around through the entire process, but wasn’t really able to help much. She is perfectly capable of putting the Mega Bloks pieces together, but simply doesn’t have the skills to follow building instructions.

As soon as Barbie’s Pool Party Play Set was built, the kids were at play. The set comes with two little figures so each lent their voice to a character. I think I was smiling almost as much as they were as I listened to their little imaginations spin tales and very silly conversation. I know the set is geared towards girls – and I like the idea of building toys like this being designed specifically to appeal to girls – but my son had just as much fun playing with it as my daughter.

The kids loved that we added water to the pool – and “hot pool” as the hot tub is called. When it was (finally) sunny outside this weekend, we took the play set to the backyard.

While the teeny tiny pieces can be a bit annoying, they provide an extreme level of detail throughout the play set. Barbie and Ken can enjoy a drink while floating in the pool and listening to an iPod. The play set is truly full of clever little details that lend themselves to imaginative play. Frankly, I really wish I could take an afternoon to hang out there! It’s such a little oasis and I think I’m more deserving of some time by the pool than Barbie and Ken, but no one asked me.

Shop! From Barbie’s Luxury Mansion to her Fashion Boutique or Pet Shop, Mega Bloks Barbie Play Sets are a great way to get creative. And, they’re currently on Roll Back at WalMart, making them a great value. The Build n Style Pool Party Set is $30, and the sets range from $9 to $69.

Win! Choice of Mega Bloks Barbie Play Set – Two (2) Winners!

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Disclaimer: This giveaway is sponsored by Lunchbox. All opinions are my own.

This promotion is solely sponsored by Lunchbox. By entering, you agree to look solely to Lunchbox for any claims in connections therewith.

2 Red Hens Studio: Stylish Products for On the Go {Review & Giveaway}

by Kate on April 1st, 2013 | 5 Comments | Giveaways, On the Go, Reviews

Lori Holliday started 2 Red Hens Studio in 2004 to create a chic and functional diaper bag. 2 Red Hens has since expanded to offer a collection of products inspired by a vintage look for modern mamas. When designing products, Lori seamlessly marries her experience working as an engineer with the practicalities of motherhood. ”Having kids has been my biggest test lab. Besides making things pretty, I try to develop product that helps make life a teeny bit easier, so Mom can focus on more important things – like spending time with Baby.”

In addition to diaper bags designed for modern moms, 2 Red Hens offers some great accessories for life on the go: Diaper Pack, Snack Pack and Toy Nanny (plus more).

2 Red Hens Toy Nanny

The 2 Red Hens Toy Nanny is a play mat that makes transporting toys a breeze. The Toy Nanny unfolds to a flat, cozy play space with a soft, velour center and 8 mesh pockets for toys. The water-resistant backing material is great for use on damp ground outside and it helps keep spills in check. When you’re done playing, simply pull the straps to cinch the bag and it turns into a tote. So smart!

Perfect for playdates at the park and day trips to grandma’s, the Toy Nanny ensures your little one has his favorite toys no matter where you are. We’re going to pack it with Max’s favorite toys to bring on our upcoming spring break road trip. Because it folds up into a small, portable tote it won’t take much room in our car and we know Max will have toys to keep him busy and happy while we’re staying in new places.

The Toy Nanny is available in five stylish fabrics and is machine washable.

Innovative Essentials for On the Go

The 2 Red Hens Snack Pack Set of two reusable bags is a bargain for $15. The bags have a clever zip-around design allowing it to open perfectly flat. We like that the bags open to provide a clean surface for eating and access to corners for cleaning. The larger bag is perfect for sandwiches and the smaller is great for a snack serving size. They are also machine washable and BPA, lead and PVC-free. The Snack Pack Set is definitely a family picnic essential.

Shop! The Toy Nanny, Snack Pack Set, Diaper Pack and other stylish products for modern moms are available at 2 Red Hens Studio online.

Win! 2 Red Hens Toy Nanny!

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Giveaway is open to US and Canadian mailing addresses. Thanks to 2 Red Hens for providing samples and the giveaway prize.

Kleynimals: Baby-Safe Key Toy {Review}

by Kate on February 13th, 2013 | 5 Comments | Baby, Reviews, Toys

Like a true third child, Max is always on the go. From big brother’s basketball games to sister’s ballet class to school pick ups, he has to go with the flow quite a bit. Thankfully, he’s an easy going baby so this works out okay for us, but I learned the hard way that I needed to plan ahead and pack accordingly to entertain his active little 11 month old self. My current go-to toy to entertain Max is the brilliant Kleynimals: baby-safe teething toys designed to resemble keys that babies seem to love.

Meet Kleynimals

Inspired by an empty search for non-toxic keys for baby, Kleynimals were designed to have the weight and appeal of a traditional key ring made of baby-safe material.

Non-toxic animal keys
For babies 6 months and up
Made of 100% food grade stainless steel
Dishwasher safe
Made in the USA

Kleynimals is a set of three sweet animals on a ring: Leo the Lion, Eli the Elephant and Gus the Giraffe.

Max and the Clean Key Animals

Max took to the Kleynimals immediately. Like many babies, he has shown some interest in my key ring, but holy gross. In addition to being made of materials not safety tested for kids, with sharp edges, my keys go into the ignition, car door and are just yuck. On the opposite end of the spectrum: Kleynimals come in a drawstring pouch so you can keep them clean in your diaper bag – or wherever you decide to keep them. In addition, Kleynimals have no sharp edges and are smooth with texture to define the animals and add interest.

Turns out it’s really hard to take a sweet action shot of an 11 month old playing with a teething toy that makes noise when rattled. Max shakes the Kleynimals, throws them, mouths them… does just about everything but hold them still for a good photo.

You can tell from our action shots, though, that the Kleynimals are the perfect size for his chubby hands. Each animal is a few inches tall and contoured, perfectly proportioned for baby’s hands.

Personalize Your Kleynimals

Kleynimals recently launched an engraving service so you can personalize your set. We think this option makes Kleynimals a perfect gift. Even though they’re not intended for use until baby reaches 6 months old, personalized Kleynimals are a great new baby gift. Unique, affordable and something you know baby will use – and love.

Shop! Visit the Kleynimals online store to purchase a set for $24. Engraving starts at an additional $10.

Thanks to Kleynimals for providing samples.

10 Awesome Walkers for Babies on the Move

by Kate on January 15th, 2013 | 5 Comments | Shopping

Here’s the deal: a walker is a great investment when your baby starts cruising. A good walker provides sturdy support for little ones to lean on as they push and cruise around the house; most are recommended for children starting at 12 months. Many walkers do double duty and also serve as a “wagon” so your toddler can move tow toys. Some have built in toys that entertain independent of the walker function. And some even transform from walker to ride on toy to last beyond the early toddling stage. Depending on the brand and features, prices range from $20 to $175 and beyond.

The Best Walkers for Babies and Toddlers

We’ve rounded up 10 Awesome Walkers for Baby ranging from basic to splurge. Scroll through to check them out.

123 Grow With Me Walker

Glodos Flap Walker

Hape Wonder Walker

Hape Zebra Walker

IKEA EKORRE Wagon Walker

Janod Original ABC Buggy Walker

Manhanttan Toy Stow and Go Activity Cart

Melissa & Doug Chomp and Clack Alligator Walker

PlanToys Baby Walker with Blocks

VTech Sit to Stand Learning Walker

1-2-3 Grow With Me ($120). Transforms from walker to ride on toy to buggy.
Glodos Flap ($174.99). Sleek modern wooden walker with rubber wheels and fabric cargo area.
Hape Wonder Walker ($79.78). Non-toxic walker with five built-in activities including knobs, gears and balls.
Hape Zebra Walker ($59.99). Two cute zebras “gallop” when baby pushes the Hape Educo Walker.
IKEA EKORRE Toddle Wagon / Walker ($19.99). Affordable modern walker with plenty of room to stow toys.
Janod Original ABC Buggy Baby Walker with Blocks ($69.99). This colorful walker from French company, Janod, has ABC blocks and an abacus to entertain after baby has mastered walking.
Manhattan Toy Stow and Go Activity Cart ($67.51). Colorful cart has built-in activities, a sturdy nylon pocket and an anti-tip braking function.
Melissa & Doug Deluxe Chomp & Clack Alligator Push Toy ($32.95). The brightly colored walker delights baby’s senses with alligators that make noise as baby pushes them along.
PlanToys Baby Walker and Blocks ($56.20). The handle on this PlanToys Walker can be adjusted to different heights and stiffness as baby’s walking skills improve. Comes with 24 blocks.
VTech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker ($33.24). Activity panel can be removed from the Walker for play on the floor. Easily attaches to walker for fun on the move.

Radio Flyer Scoot 2 Pedal {Review}

by Kate on December 20th, 2012 | 5 Comments | Reviews, Toys

Radio Flyer, a company we all know and love for their iconic red wagons, has introduced several new toys that are perfect for last minute under the tree purchases. We featured the super fun Spin ‘N Saucer in our 30 Days of Toys and now have a closer look at a toy perfect for young toddlers: the Scoot 2 Pedal Ride On Toy.

Scoot 2 Pedal Features

EZ flip out pedals, no tools required
Wide wheels for stability
Fun covered storage bin
Ergonomically contoured seat

Ride On Toy Specs

Ages: 1 – 3 Years
Size: 22 inches long x 16.5 inches wide x 18 inches tall
Weight: 6.5 pounds
Weight Capacity: 42 pounds

Scoot 2 Pedal Review

The Scoot 2 Pedal goes from box to ride-on ready in about 5 minutes. This fact is particularly important as the holiday approaches and you’re considering last minutes gifts. Nothing is worse than preparing the perfect present only to find it involves far less than perfect assembly. This is a super Santa-friendly gift with simple and quick assembly.

The Scoot 2 Pedal is best suited for little ones who are walking on their own and not more than 42 pounds – Radio Flyer recommends kids 1 to 3 years old. It will be perfect for Max in a few months, but at the moment he’s a little too young to take it for a spin. Luckily, my 4 year old (who weighs about 35 pounds) was more than happy to test around our house. And by test, I mean claim it as her own, including placing her high heels in the storage bin for safety.

The most noteworthy feature of the Scoot 2 Pedal is the front wheel that houses adjustable pedals, so (no surprise given its name) your child can make this ride on toy move with feet scooting along the floor or by pedaling. The easy flip out pedals switch position by squeezing a tab. It’s simple for an adult to do, and I don’t think young toddlers would be able to do it alone. When in the Scoot position, the pedals rest against the wide front wheel, out of the way of little scooting feet.

We love that the Scoot 2 Pedal is small and lightweight, so it’s not overwhelming as an indoor ride on toy. As you can see below, my four year old is definitely on the big side for the toy (she begs to differ).

She thinks it’s perfect for riding off into the sunset. Er, the hallway.

Even though he’s not steady enough to go scootin’, Max has been checking out the Scoot 2 Pedal. He can’t walk on his own yet, but when I held him on the seat, he walked his fat little legs and moved right across the room. So freaking cute! He also pulls up on and investigates every bit of the toy.

“What are THESE doing in here?!?”

To Buy or Not to Buy

To Buy… Given that, with assistance, Max already tries to scoot his feet and get moving on the Scoot 2 Pedal we have no doubt it will be a wonderful ride on toy when he’s more steady on his feet. And, of course, if my daughter is any indication, he’ll be using it for years as it transitions to a pedal toy. Because he’ll be comfortable riding around on this toy, we think he’ll have an easier time learning to pedal on this than starting with, say, a traditional tricycle. We think it’s a great value for the money and it’s a fabulous gift option for the holidays.

Or Not to Buy… If you’re looking for an outdoor toy primarily for scooting with little feet power, we recommend the Classic Tiny Trike instead. My first son zoomed up and down our street on his and it was amazing. The Scoot 2 Pedal’s strength is its ability to grow with your child from scooting to pedaling but isn’t as strong as a scooting toy.

Shop! The Scoot 2 Pedal is available from Radio Flyer for $49.99. It’s also available in stores so check the Store Locator to make a purchase for Christmas gift-giving.

Thanks to Radio Flyer for providing a sample.

Rubik’s Soft Cube Toy {Review}

by Kate on December 20th, 2012 | 5 Comments | Reviews, Toys

I am mad at the folks behind the Soft Rubik’s Cube, and I’ll tell you why. It was billed at the cube so cute and simple that even some kids can do it. But. BUT. I CANNOT SOLVE IT. Darn you, Rubik and your tricky cube!

Rubik’s Soft Cube

It’s a Rubik’s Cube for the kiddies! This soft, brain-building toy turns like a real Rubik’s Cube–little ones develop motor skills and color recognition as they play! With no pieces to lose and a compact design, this mind-bender is ideal for on-the-go play. Kids can hardly put it down!

Okay, so the truth? Despite my complete inability to solve a Rubik’s Cube, this is a pretty cool toy for young kids. I knew my six year old would be really into it because he loves puzzles. The Rubik’s Soft Cube was a little tough to spin at the beginning, but just like the big kid version, it gets more “loose” and easier to spin after some use. I can already tell it’s easier to spin. (And spin and spin and spin as I desperately try to figure how to get the last blue square to the blue side!)

My six year old loves it. And to absolutely no one’s surprise he is much better at it than I am. He did, in fact, get the last blue square to the blue side. It’s really the perfect kind of gift or toy for a boy like mine. He likes to take things slowly, really spend time figuring them out. He’d much rather play a solitary game that takes four days to complete or solve than sit still for a half hour family game. He’s into solving and fixing and doing. And this is a great little toy to get his brain working and the mechanics of it are simple enough that he’s not frustrated that his hands can’t do what his head wants.