Wordless Wednesday-Mommy and Me Tea Party

Toddler Tales-Sausage and Waffles Breakfast

***Disclosure-I received free product coupon and $100 gift card to facilitate review.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal opinions.

If you have kids, you know all the tales that come with life.  Some many things happen.  We live to tell those tales, laugh about them, and learn lessons from them.

My toddler loves to help.  I sometimes let her help where she can.  Today's lesson, breakfast.  We are making sausage and waffles.  I picked an easy meal that she and the entire family likes.  I also picked items that we can learn from.

Ingredients-

-Sweet Potato Waffle Mix

-Johnsonville Vermont Maple Syrup Breakfast Sausage

-Green Apples

Toddlers can help get the kitchen tools ready like the measuring cups, bowls, etc..  They can also help with the liquid pouring into the measuring cups.  My Lil Bit helped mixing the waffle fix.  Pouring it into each waffles area on the waffle maker too.  I had her handle putting the sausage on the skillet as well.  It was not hot as I had just turned it on.

I reminded her, she needed to wash her hands before handling food.  She used her stool that she has readily ready in the kitchen to reach the kitchen counter.  As she placed the sausage on the skillet I had her count them.  Math goes well in the kitchen.  

What breakfast items do your little ones help with?  Any suggestions on our next dish?

Giveaway-Preparing Little Ones for Cooler Months

***Disclosure-No compensation was received.  Informational post.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

Aren't we just ready for summer to be over?  When the weather starts to change, we don't know how to act.  We should keep being mindful as it starts to cool down that our skin needs protection.  And so do our kid's skin.

Certified Pediatrician for AVEENO® Baby, Dr. Andrés Cotton, shares his best tips to help your baby during this transitional period.

Bath Time

Your baby may sweat a lot in humid weather.  You can keep your baby clean and healthy by giving him a bath at least once a day.  Don’t forget to check his neck, underarms and other creases in his body.  Use a soap free and paraben free wash such as AVEENO® Baby Wash & Shampoo which also leaves baby’s skin soft and smelling fresh.

Keep the temperature in the bathroom and bedroom the same, making sure there are no drafts of cold air while bathing or massaging your baby after her bath.  This may include air from a fan or air conditioner.  Complement your baby’s bath with a massage using AVEENO® Baby Daily Moisture Lotion, which contains natural colloidal oatmeal blended with rich emollients that soothe and help protect your baby's delicate skin.

Dress Appropriately

The weather can change a lot in a day during the transitional months. It could start out hot and humid and then get cold. Dress your baby appropriately, especially when you are planning to be out for a couple of hours. It is best to dress your baby in layers so that you can remove or add clothing to keep your baby comfortable through the day.

During the day when the temperate is warmer, you could dress your baby in loose cotton clothes that will let his skin breathe. When it gets cooler, cover your baby in a jacket or cardigan and booties to keep him warm.                                                  

Other Tips to Keep in Mind

During weather changes, babies tend to get sick.  Try not to take your baby out until the weather stabilizes. 

Fight the germs that can cause your baby to get sick by washing her hands after she eats, if she is old enough to have solid food, and when she comes home from daycare or being outside.

If your baby is at least 6 months old, use sun protection when spending time outside.  AVEENO® Baby Natural Protection Lotion Sunscreen with Broad Spectrum SPF 50 and AVEENO® Baby Natural Protection Face Stick with Broad Spectrum SPF 50 contain naturally sourced ingredients.

What do you do?  Do you have any tips?  

Well I want you to be prepared when the weather starts changing.  Enter to win an Aveeno Baby Prize Pack. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway
This giveaway is for US residents only.  One winner will be randomly selected.  The winner will have 24 hours to claim their prize.  Good Luck!

Kandoo Review

***Disclosure-Sample product receive for review.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

Did you know that baby wipes are not suppose to go in the toilet?  Check the back of your package..

I had to explain this to my husband and show him the back of the package so he could see.

Baby wipes are great to clean messes and tushies.  And normally when you clean a tushie, you stick it in the diaper and throw the entire thing in the trash.  Or when you use it to clean a mess, you just toss it in the trash.  But what do you do when you wipe a toddler tushie?  Well a #2 wipe, would go in the toilet to me, right?  No....not baby wipes.

Throwing baby wipes in your toilet could cause serious and costly septic problems.  I am so glad we did not have to find out the hard way about this.

Have you heard of the brand Kandoo?  They are biodegradable, flushable wipes.  Which means after the tushie wipes, then can be thrown in the toilet and flushed.  So totally safe for the sewer and your septic system.

Giveaway-Bath Time is So Much More

***Disclosure-I received sample product for review.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

JOHNSON’S® fue la primera marca para el cuidado del bebé en comprometerse con el progreso de la ciencia relacionada a la piel del bebé. En los últimos cinco años ha publicado más estudios en esta área que cualquier otra compañía global para el cuidado de la piel. Las investigaciones están siendo utilizadas para  establecer los estándares para el cuidado del bebé alrededor del mundo. Han logrando avances al apoyar investigaciones que demuestran la importancia de las experiencias multi-sensoriales las cuales fomentan el desarrollo feliz y saludable del bebé.

JOHNSON’S® Global Survey Bath Time Report: Resultados sobre los Hispanos

Sólo el 45% de los padres dice que el momento del baño es extremadamente importante para el desarrollo del cerebro de su hijo, aunque los padres hispanos tienen un poco más de conocimiento (57% dice que es extremadamente importante vs. 41% de padres no-Hispanos).

La hora del baño es una buena oportunidad para estimular los sentidos de mi hijo (tacto, olfato, visión, audición). El 53% de los hispanos está totalmente de acuerdo, versus 35% de no-Hispanos.

Dos de tres padres en EE.UU. dicen que lamentan perderse la hora del baño (66%), especialmente los padres hispanos (79% vs. 63% de los padres no-Hispanos). 

El efecto sensorial que experimentan durante la hora del baño se queda con ellos mucho más tiempo después de cuando terminan de bañarse (77%), especialmente para padres hispanos (88% vs. 74% de padres no-Hispanos)

La rutina de nosotros es importante para nosotros. Desde cuando mi beba era chiquita, el tiempo de bano siempre es un buen tiempo para disfrutar.  

Mi nena le encanta jugar con las burbujas. Este juego ayuda que los bebes desarollen la coordinacion entre manos y ojos.

Estos momentos pueden crear buenos recuerdos. Olores placenteros pueden crear recuerdos para toda la vida.

Otra cosa que nos encanta es oir musica. Esto puede estimular partes del cerebro responsables de la memoria y el desarollo del lenguaje.

Y despues del banito, le doy un masajito. Cosquillitas por aqui, cosquillitas por alla. Relajando mi nena antes del tiempo para dormir.

Que usas tu para rutina? Quieres ganar estos productos para tu bebe? Entra aqui. Una persona va a ganar este paquete de productos de Johnson's.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disney Jr-Kate and Mim Mim

***Disclosure-My daughter received some cute bunny ears.  Any opinions expressed are my own.

My daughter is obsessed with Disney Jr.  She gets home and she loves to watch Disney Jr.  I never thought I would be one of those parents, per say.  But I am.  Who cares?  I don't.  You want to know why?  Because they are great shows on the television that are not only entertaining but also teach our kids.  Like the new show Kate and Mim Mim.

I was introduced to this show even before my daughter started watching it.  I really did not think she was going to be as into it as she actually is.  She is currently in the princess mode.  This is a cute story written by two parents.  I like the story lines on every episode.  My daughter just adores Kate and Mim Mim.

This is their Kate.

Kate & Mim-Mim follows the special friendship between a 5-year-old girl named Kate, and her favorite plush bunny Mim-Mim who becomes a larger than life playmate whenever Kate’s curiosity stirs her imagination, and unlocks the door to her fantastical world!

In each episode, Kate and Mim-Mim and their gang of loveable friends discover exciting new places and set off on adventures, all in the hope of solving a puzzling problem Kate has in the real world. When the adventure ends, Kate returns to the real world to tell her parents all about her amazing adventures and how she and Mim-Mim have saved the day.

So check your Disney Jr schedule to see when Kate and Mim Mim are coming on and see if you little enjoy too.  

Character Meet and Greet Tips

Last August we took our daughter to Disney World for her 1st visit.  We were so excited for our family to all to share this moment.  One of the things that we enjoyed doing with her was the Meet and Greet with the characters.  She did not know was about to happen when it just happened.  Each time it left her so stunned, and or course speechless.  Before going on our trip, I looked online for tips and tricks.  Here are some that we used:

1)  Autographs Books-So it was suggested to make one.  I looked online and was, like ok.  I can do this.  Then I realized I didn't have time for all that.  I actually bought plain scrapbooks but never got to do anything with them.  If you have time and talent, then go for it!  It is your book.  But it was a fail for me.  I then tried heading to the Disney store but they were all out.  Then my sister in law suggested we head to the souvenir shops in Florida when we got there.  BINGO!  We found some really cute ones and super, dirt cheap.  

2)  Autograph Pen-So I found some cute little permanent markers at the dollar store.  They even came with little hooks to hook on.  They had different colors and I thought these are too cute.  Until we got to the park and we tried to get a signature.  The characters have to be able to hold these.  Some characters were not able to hold these little markers. 

3)  Lanyards-I found some really cute lanyards at Dollar Tree.  They different characters to choose from.  I bought one for each family member.  These were very useful.  I hooked the autograph book and markers to mine.

The Meet and Greets are so awesome.  The characters really give you their undivided attention when it is your turn.  They do not rush you at all.  Here are some tips I learned from our experience:

4)  Be ready-The is not their first day doing these.  They are ready for the crowds day in and day out.  You need to be ready when it is your turn.  A-because you need to be considerate for all the rest of the people in line.  B-Because it is finally your turn, take advantage fully of all your time.  

5)  Assign Jobs-No I don't mean real work.  It was 5 of us in our group.  So grandma had the card for the photographer to scan.  Yes, there is a photographer that will take your professional fancy photo at every meet and greet.  I had the autograph book and pen.  Daddy had our camera ready.  Yes, they will take pictures for you on your camera or phone.  Again going back to above-BE READY!

6)  Entertainment-The lines are long.  Depending what character you are going to meet, it may be an hour, or two, or three.  Bring activity books, coloring books, or gadgets for the kiddos to play with while in line.  

7)  Dining-Make sure you fill up on your drinks like water bottles before you get in line.  If you have small kids, you know they are always thirsty.  Also, bring snacks for the little kids.  We brought plenty of things for our daughter to munch and crunch on.  

8)  Potty Breaks-Do use the restrooms before getting line.  Wherever we were, we always knew where the nearest restroom was at.  

9)  Schedule/Maps-Check the schedules and maps before heading into the park or right when you get there.  We totally missed Minnie at Disney World because we did not find where she was at.  We did one big circle and got all the characters but we missed Minnie.  Minnie was at the back of the park.

10)  Buttons-You can go to City Hall and get a 1st visit, birthday, etc...button.  We totally missed it because we saw the castle and ran to see the performance at the castle.  We almost missed getting our buttons.  City Hall is at the front right when you enter.  Get these first.  These button identify you and your special trip.  

Have fun and enjoy your trip!  I hope these tips help you have the best Meet and Greet experiences.

Baby's First Book Blocks Review

Disclosure-Sample product was received for review.  All opinions stated are my own.

My daughter loves books.  She always has.  I like finding learning products that help our kids learn.  Recently I was looking for gifts for a couple of friends who will be first time mamis, and was introduced to Baby’s First Book Blocks. 

It is a series of mini board books designed to entice infants to focus and develop their visual acuity. Featuring high-contrast colors, eye-catching shapes, and colorful patterns, these chunky little books also incorporate the latest scientific research about vision development, making for the perfect introductory baby books.

Book 1: Black and White—simple but interesting shapes moving into more complex shapes and patterns
Book 2: Red, Blue, and Yellow—introduces primary colors and slightly more complex shapes, moving into real patterns with multiple colors
Book 3: Color and Pattern—secondary colors and more complex patterns
Book 4: Visual Excitement—subtle shades and complicated patterns 

Studies show that during the first year of life, babies’ visual skills develop dramatically. A month-old infant will prefer sharply defined, black-and-white edges and patterns, while by 4 months of age, most babies can distinguish even subtle shades and respond to repeating patterns.

These blocks are a perfect gift for an expectant mami so they can start the interaction from day one.  They can explore, examine, and help develop their babies visual skills.  And can continue using this even when they are older.  I like all the different colors, and patterns.  My daughter really liked stacking them, describing what she saw, and it was a fun game she keeps playing with us everyday.

For more information, go to http://powkidsbooks.com/babys-first-book-blocks/

June is National Fruit & Veggie month

***Disclosure-Sample product was received to review.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

The daily recommended allowance of fruits and vegetables for most children is five or more servings a day .  If you have a picky eater, this can be quite challenging.  I am so glad I do not have a picky eater but when she gets sick she acts like she does not want anything.  I like that I have an option like Sprout Baby Foods.

Sprout Baby Foods, leading company in organic baby food, can offer suggestions on the best ways to incorporate Fruits and Veggies into your child’s diet.

Sprout’s mission is to create delicious and nutritious foods using the finest organic ingredients. 

-Multigrain pillows filled with nutritious and naturally sweet fruit and veggie goodness.  

-Made with whole grains

• -Filled with real fruits and veggies
• -No added sugars
• -Never any additives or preservatives

-These snacks are super because their fruits outshine others in beneficial nutrients. These extra-special ingredients are combined with other favorites for extraordinary flavor.

• -A natural source of Vitamin C
• -A natural source of fiber
• -BPA-free packaging
• -Never any additives or preservatives
• -Never any artificial colors or flavors

I like that my daughter likes this and is getting all the nutrients she needs.  Sprout has different stages of food from baby to kids.

Dive into the New Year with the Octonauts!

***Disclosure-Sample product was received.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

My nephew who is almost my daughter's same age introduced Lil Bit to the Octonauts.  This show has one become part of her lineup.  She likes seeing the adventures they go on and who they help.  She likes the show because she loves seeing the fishes and all the underwater creatures.

Octonauts are underwater explorers that go on missions to “explore, rescue and protect!”.  It’s time to meet the crew!

CAPTAIN BARNACLES BEAR

A brave polar bear extraordinaire and the leader of the Octonauts crew. He's always the first to rush in and help whenever there's a problem.

KWAZII KITTEN

A daredevil orange kitten with a mysterious pirate past. He loves excitement and travelling to exotic places.

PESO PENGUIN

PESO PENGUIN is the medic for the team. He's an expert at bandaging and always carries his medical kit with him in case of emergencies. He's not too fond of scary things, but if a creature is hurt or in danger, he can be the bravest Octonaut of all!

Together with the rest of their crew, DASHI (SAUCI) DOG, SHELLINGTON SEA OTTER, TWEAK BUNNY, PROFFESSOR INKLING OCTOPUS and TURNIP THE VEGIMAL, the Octonauts explore the world's oceans, rescue the creatures who live there, and protect their habitats - above and below the waves!  

Here Come the Octonauts is now available for the FIRST time on DVD!

In Here Come the Octonauts, Captain Barnacles must figure out how to free an old friend who is trapped beneath the ice; Kwazii tries to rescue a reef full of creatures before an undersea storm strikes; and Peso must help a school of frightened fish who have invaded the Octopod!

GIVEAWAY-Here Come the Octonauts dvd

a Rafflecopter giveaway

US only.  1 winner will be randomly selected.

Giveaway-Aveeno Baby End of Summer Prize Pack

Disclosure-No compensation was received.  Sponsor is providing prize pack for winner.  Any opinions stated are my own.

Twice this summer I had someone tell me about having a rash on their skin and wondering why?  My first question was - Was there any sun exposure?  My second was - Was there sun protection?  Babies and Toddlers need protection from the sun all the time even if you think the sun is not strong or hiding in the clouds.  Cloudy days can be very dangerous.  The UV rays are still there.  As the Summer comes to and end and the trips are almost over, don't forget to always protect yourself and babies from the sun.

Aveeno is a great brand because of it natural ingredients.  They won't irritate the skin, great for those with sensitive skin.  This is what the doctor's always have recommended to me.  Aveeno has sun care products:

AVEENO^®  BABY CONTINUOUS PROTECTION^® LOTION SUNSCREEN WITH BROAD SPECTRUM SPF 55

·         Formulated with ACTIVE NATURALS^®  Colloidal Oatmeal to soothe baby's delicate skin and help prevent moisture loss

·         ENVIROGUARD™ Technology maintains broad spectrum protection

·         Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, non-greasy and water resistant (80 minutes)

·         Developed specifically for baby’s delicate skin

·         AVEENO^® is the #1 dermatologist recommended brand for baby sunscreen

As well as: 

AVEENO^®  BABY SOOTHING RELIEF CREAMY WASH

·         Formulated with ACTIVE NATURALS^® Colloidal Oatmeal glycerin, a natural plant derived humectant that helps lock in moisture, and rich emollients blended into a creamy wash that gently cleanses and soothes baby’s delicate skin

·         The hydrating, rich creamy wash leaves skin feeling moisturized for 24 hours

• Gentle enough for baby’s sensitive skin
• Tear-free, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic and paraben-free

AVEENO^® BABY SOOTHING RELIEF MOISTURE CREAM

• Clinically proven to moisturize for 24 hours
• Formulated with natural colloidal oatmeal to help soothe and restore lost moisture
• Non-greasy formula absorbs quickly
• Gentle enough for baby’s sensitive skin
• Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free ·         Dermatologist and allergy tested

More and more, I am hearing about skin allergies and irritation.  Have you tried Aveeno? is what I always tell parents in this situation because it always helps us.

Giveaway- Aveeno End of Summer Prize Pack

How to enter:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Baby Signing Book, 2nd Edition Review

***Disclosure-Sample product was received to review.  All opinions are my own based on my personal experience.

My daughter, Lil Bit, was having problems communicating at day care.  Many friends, mothers, suggested I teach her sign language.  I thought it was a great idea.  From before she was born I had wanted to teach my kids sign language.  We had already been playing with a couple of words here and there that we learn from the baby channel.  But I didn't have all the words, or something to reference to.  So I needed a guide/book to help me.

I was offered the opportunity to review The Baby Signing Book, 2nd Edition.  It has helped me learn more words and to practice.  Teaching Lil Bit a few words.  It is learning for her and for us.  We will have to keep practicing and hopefully this helps her communicate better with others.  I can't wait to be able to sign a whole nursery rhyme or song!!

THE BABY SIGNING BOOK, 2nd Ed.

Includes 450 ASL Signs for Babies & Toddlers

 

Babies can learn sign language before they can speak, and sign language gives them a way to express their wants and needs, easing their frustration (and yours). Signing allows parents, siblings, caregivers and grandparents to know what a baby is thinking, curb challenging behavior, and have fun "chatting" about daily activities. 

Communication in any form, whether through words, cries, signing, or body language, allows us to bond with those around us. The ability to communicate enables one to connect, learn, and grow. 

The interest surrounding baby signing only continues to increase as more parents embrace this means of communication with babies before they can talk. This quick and comprehensive 'course' in baby signing features a program that caregivers can customize according to their family's needs and offers age-specific advice on how to teach sign language as your child grows and develops. 

This bestselling book on baby signing has been updated to include more ASL symbols, additional case studies and updated information. 

Part 1 of the book provides an introduction to signing with babies and young children. 

Part 2 is an illustrated dictionary of 450 ASL signs. 

Part 3 provides songs and rhymes you can sign with your child.

Special features include:

• The top five signing tips
• A program that parents can customize according to their family’s needs
• Answers to frequently asked questions
• Instructions on the five distinct components of ASL signs: body space, hand shape, movement, palm orientation and facial expression 
• Age-specific advice on how to teach sign language as your child develops

By simply following this book, a special world of communication awaits you, your family, and your baby.

SARA BINGHAM is the founder of WeeHands, the world’s leading children’s sign language and language development program for babies, toddlers and preschool children. She holds a BA in Linguistics and one in Psychology, as well as a post-graduate diploma in Communicative Disorders. Sara is the proud mother of two signing children and a frequent contributor to parenting magazines and baby-related professional websites. She lives in Ontario.

***CLOSED***Giveaway-Beechnut Goya Basket

Back in May, I introduced to you the New Beechnut Goya baby food in this post.  The new line is inspired by our Hispanic/Latino flavors.   The new line has more than 20 flavors.  It is 100% natural and contains no artificial colors, flavorings or preservatives that are made especially para nuestros bebes.

These were the flavors we received:

• Apple Guava - Manzana Guayaba
• Carrots Corn - Zanahorias Maiz
• Corn Cereal - Cereal de Maiz
• Mango - Mango
• Peach Mango - Melocoton Mango

Visit Beechnut.com or visit their facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/BeechNut to learn more about their new product and get coupons.

GIVEAWAY-One reader will win this basket.

How to enter:

1)  Mandatory-Be a blog follower, leave you follower name. (1 entry)
2)  Facebook Share, must link. (1 entry/per share/per day)
3)  Tweet. (1 entry/per tweet/per day)

Enter to #win #BeechnutGoya basket @independentmami #giveaway ends 8/19 http://tinyurl.com/mjosqmr

Bonus Entries:

4)  Leave a new comment on NON-giveaway post dated after August 1-(1 entry/per comment)
5)  Pin this giveaway. (1 entry)
6)  Follow me on Instagram. (1 entry)
7)  Follow me on Pinterest. (1 entry)
8)  Read my review, leave a comment on that post, and come back to tell me you did.  (1 entry)

This giveaway ends 8/19/2013 at 5 am.  1 winner will be randomly selected.  The winner will have 24 hours to claim their prize.  US only.  Please leave your email in comment.  Good luck.

Tasty Thursday-Barbara Bermudo for Beech-Nut and Goya

***Disclosure-No compensation was received.  Informational post only.  Make sure to check out a giveaway coming soon provided by the sponsor.

Last month, I received sample product for my daughter to sample.  Did you see my post?  



Barbara is a mother of two beautiful little girls.  She is now the spokesperson for this new line of baby food by Beech-Nut and Goya.  Beech-Nut and Goya have teamed up to make a line of baby food with the authentic flavors of our culture.
As you may know, Beech-Nut is a family owned baby food company with a rich history that prides itself on having all natural ingredients and no artificial additives or preservatives. Goya, is synonymous with delicious, authentic Hispanic flavors or "sabor".

Rockabye Baby Rentals

***Disclosure-I will receive $100 credit in exchange for this informational post.  All opinions stated are my own based on my experience.

Rent Baby Equipment - Rent cribs, pack N plays, toddler beds, carseats, strollers, high chairs, toys and more. All our products comply with federal safety standards and is sanitized and safety inspected. Rockabye Baby Rentals offers delivery, airport meet & greet, or self pickup & return; we have a service to fit your need. Traveling with a baby or toddler? Perhaps you have little ones coming to visit. Baby equipment rental saves you time, hassle and money. Order online and your baby equipment will be where you need it.


Save 15% Off Any Order use promo code: KD0501 at http://www.rockabyebabyrentals.com
Markets Available-

-New Orleans

-Birmingham, AL

-Houston, TX

-Galveston Island, TX

-Austin, TX
-Soon expanding to more.   Are you traveling to New Orleans, Birmingham, Houston, Galveston Island or Austin TX in the this weekend?    We travelled to South Padre Island 2 weeks ago and this would have been a great idea.  So we wouldn't have to pack 2 strollers, and it would have left extra room for luggage and other items we wanted to bring but left behind because we had no space. 

Spring Into Color With Pampers & Their New 30-Day Facebook Sweepstakes

Disclosure-The coupons are being donated by Pampers for my participation in this blogging/trial

program.  These items are not intended as payment for any favorable opinions. As always any

opinions expressed about this or any product as based on my own honest experiences.

Pampers has kicked off the season of Spring with a celebration of the ways babies color our

lives! You can look for the special "Spring into Color" tab on Pampers Facebook page

(www.facebook.com/pampers) for chances to win daily prizes that enhance the colorful and

delightful ways in which the wonderment of babies brighten our daily lives - all including

Pampers wipes and diapers.  And it doesn’t stop there; each entry will also enter you into the

grand prize giveaway -- a $5,000 gift card. 

Be sure to enter before the sweepstakes ends on May 28^th.