Does your child need extra help with their speech therapy services? While school and private therapy provide primary ways to practice and make changes, your child may need more. Here’s where the new TikTalk2Me app comes in!
TikTalk is a new program for children in kindergarten through grade six, available on iOS and Android. Your kiddo’s school or private speech-language pathologist (SLP) activates and guides the app, customizing the app experience.
The app includes engaging video games to encourage at-home practice. Nir Gamliel, U.S. head of business development at TikTalk2me, said in a press release, “This is the most intuitive, engaging and customized speech program available for use on millions of portable devices.” Gamliel continued, “In our efforts to make TikTalk even more accessible, it is now available in the app store. It’s time that patients, parents and SLPs reap the benefits of futuristic therapy today.”
Sandra Laserson, M.A. CCC-SLP, an Ohio-based SLP in private practice who helped develop TikTalk, added, “Some apps are good for encouraging practice. But I never knew how much practice was being done, how accurate sounds were being produced and had limited mechanisms at my disposal to report the success.”
Find TikTalk in the Apple Store here and on Google Play here.
Getting quality healthcare for your kiddo just got easier. Blueberry Pediatrics is a new app that gives you access to a virtual pediatrician 24/7!
Whether your littles all have the same tummy ache, you’re not sure if your newborn is nursing enough, or you have any other concern, Blueberry is like a pediatrician in your pocket.
Access the app for a visit with a board-certified pediatrician any time day or night. Blueberry’s doctors are on call whenever you need them for whatever you need them for.
Jonathan Kahan, Chief Medical Officer and Co-Founder of Blueberry Pediatrics, said in a press release, “As a doctor and a father myself, I know firsthand the anxiety that comes from caring for your sick child. There’s nothing more reassuring than having an expert to call for help, and that’s what our team provides.”
Kahan added, “With the low cost of membership and the high value of care, we want parents to see us as a vital part of their medical solution, a subscription that every family should have to navigate their children’s health.”
The Blueberry Pediatrics app is currently available for users in California, Florida, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Texas on iOS, Android and online. To use the app, join Blueberry Pediatrics for a monthly membership fee ($18 for one month).
After you join, a call will be scheduled with Blueberry’s Chief Pediatrician and you’ll be introduced to the Blueberry pediatric team. When a question, concern, or illnesses creeps up, just use the app to schedule a virtual appointment with a board-certified pediatrician and you’ll be chatting within 15 minutes.
You’ll also get an at-home medical kit (one time $100 fee) that includes a finger pulse oximeter, ear infection kit and forehead thermometer. Visit the Blueberry Pediatrics website here for more information.
Extra, extra––read all about it! The LEGO Group and Universal Music Group (UMG) have teamed up for their first collaboration and it’s bringing the brickmaker and global industry leader in music together in a special way.
Introducing LEGO VIDIYO, “a playful and innovative music video maker experience designed to celebrate and expand children’s creativity and passion for music.” The new app lets kids dream up, direct, produce, star and share their own music videos using tunes from UMG’s chart topping artists.
Perfect for kids ages seven to 10, LEGO VIDIYO offers a safe space for them to “travel” the world and experiment with music. The app brings new technology with the LEGO System in Play and pairs it with music from all over the world so kiddos can creatively express themselves.
LEGO VIDIYO requires verified parental consentand external moderation of all content shared to the App feed for ultimate parent confidence.
The new app is packed with music, augmented reality, minifigures and other iconic LEGO elements. Kids have tons of editing options which can be unlocked through “Beat Bits,” a special effect.
To get started, download the free app (which will be available for Android and Apple users starting Feb. 16) and then young creators will choose a song. Next, create a band from new minifigs which can be customized and brought to life using AR technology.
Let LEGO VIDIYO scan your location in just three seconds and you’ve got the perfect background. Next, get those “Beat Bits” going–– 2×2 square LEGO elements that unlock digital effects when scanned. Options for special effects include audio effects, confetti showers and even surfing on a shark!
Record up to a 60 second performance then trim down to your liking before uploading to the App feed. Kids videos will undergo moderation with the caveat that any content featuring personally-identifiable information won’t be approved for App feed upload. However, these videos can be stored in-App and shared with fam and friends.
To keep it fresh, LEGO VIDIYO will add new music, challenges, and inspirational content often. Keep an eye out––you can start getting your hands on the new products in most countries starting Mar. 1.
Baby Brezza has been leading the way on bottle makers for quite some time, but even they have outdone themselves with their newest product: a WiFi Bottle Maker!
The Formula Pro Advanced WiFi Baby Formula Dispenser is available starting Jan. 5 and will change your bottle-making ways forever. Currently retailing for $279.99 in the U.S. only, the formula mixing machine can be controlled from your phone!
The dispenser uses Baby Brezza’s patented mixing technology to mix formula and water to the ideal consistency and works with nearly all formula brands and bottle types. Parents can customize and set up to five different bottles and select from three temperature settings. Additionally you can choose to dispense anywhere from two to 10 ounces or just dispense water only.
In the market for a new set of wheels? Finding the perfect family car can be a daunting task when you’ve got kids to consider. After all, you’re not just looking for a car that looks good; you’ve also got to make sure your ride has the best safety features, is roomy enough to fit your brood, and has enough trunk space to haul all that parenting paraphernalia (sports gear, stroller, diaper supplies, etc.). Not sure where to start? We scoured expert reviews to find the best all-wheel cars, SUVs and minivans for families in 2021. Keep reading to see them all.
Best Sedans
2021 Honda Accord (Hybrid or Standard)
Honda
Last year's winner of Edmund's Mid-Size Sedan category was also named one of the "Best Cars for Families" by U.S. News & World Reports—and this year's model offers a hybrid model so you can save money on gas and teach your kids a little about environmental stewardship. Hybrid or not, the Honda Accord is an inexpensive, reliable car that has everything a small family needs to stay safe and happy on the road.
Best family-friendly features:
U.S. News calls the interior "cavernous," with comfortable seating for five and room for three car seats/boosters in the back row
16.7 cubic feet of trunk space makes for one of the biggest in its class, says Edmunds.
Passenger seats have tons of pockets and bins for all your kids' books and small items
Available heated and ventilated seats
Dual-zone climate control keeps everyone happy and warm (or cool)
Drawer inside the trunk for storing smaller items that may roll around while you're driving
Cargo hook for hanging grocery bags in the trunk
Wireless phone charger
Apple Car Play and Android Auto for connecting your phone's apps and music to the car
WiFi hotspot connectivity
Impressive fuel efficiency at 30 city/38 highway mpg for the standard model; 48/47 mpg for the hybrid model
Safety features:
Collision mitigation braking system will automatically apply brakes when the car detects a collision is unavoidable
Road departure mitigation system detects if you're straying from your lane and will help correct you or apply brakes if needed
Available Head Up display shows important driving information—speed, directions and incoming calls—in the driver's line of sight.
Remotely lock your car or see fuel status from your phone
Blind spot information system
A multi-angle rearview camera with available cross-traffic monitor
Smart Entry with Walk Away Auto-lock lets you lock and unlock your car without taking out your keys
Rear occupant seat reminder makes sure you don't forget anyone in the back when you exit the car
Sure, the Toyota Camry used to have a reputation for just-blah styling, but the 2021 version of one of America's most popular car now looks as sleek and stylish as its pricier colleagues. New this year, all models come standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, the automaker’s newest version of the groundbreaking driver assist technology suite that includes automatic emergency braking.
Best family-friendly features:
Two sets of LATCH car seat anchors in rear seats and upper anchor point for the middle seat
38 inches of rear legroom that make it easy to install car seats
Available heated and ventilated seats
Dual zone climate control keeps everyone comfortable
Apple Car Play and Android Auto for connecting your phone's apps and music to the car. Amazon Alexa compatible, if you'd like Alexa's help while driving
WiFi hotspot connectivity
Economical gas mileage at 25 to 52 mpg depending on whether you're driving the standard or hybrid model
Safety features:
Integrated backup camera with projected path helps you park safely and easily
Toyota’s Safety Sense includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection that can detect not only the vehicle ahead but also a preceding bicyclist in the daytime and even a preceding pedestrian in low-light conditions. At intersections, the system may detect an oncoming vehicle or pedestrian when performing a left-hand turn and may provide audio/visual alerts and automatic braking.
Lane departure alerts
Automatic high beam headlights automatically switch from high to low beams when it detects an oncoming car
Road sign assist can recognize some road signs and display them on the information screen
Adaptive cruise control
Rear seat reminder prompts you to check the back seat before you get out of the car
Rear cross traffic alert notifies you if there are cars coming your way as you back up
Starting price: $24,970 for the standard LE model/ $27,270 for the hybrid model
A stylish choice for small families who prefer a more sophisticated look on a budget, this five-person crossover was rated as one of the top Small SUVs by Consumer Reports, and is described by Edmunds as a "top contender in the compact crossover segment." It's a good choice if you're going to drive the same car to soccer as you are to the office.
Best family-friendly features:
Roomy interior
Remote start abilities let you warm up or cool down the car before you step inside
Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto
10.5-inch infotainment screen
Available heated front and rear seats
Wifi hotspot capabilities
Two USB ports
Rear power liftgate available in upper trims
Safety features:
Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
Blind spot monitoring
Lane departure warning
Rear cross traffic alert helps detect if there's a car coming your way as you're backing up
Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go will let the car do the driving for you, maintaining a safe distance with the car in front of you (and stopping if the car in front of you stops)
Day and night pedestrian detection will detect and, if necessary, apply the brakes to avoid hitting a pedestrian
Connect to the car via the Mazda app to start the engine remotely, lock and unlock the doors (so if you can't remember whether your kids left the doors unlocked, you can always check via your phone), check whether your lights are on and more. It can also help you find where you parked your car
Rear seat occupant reminder reminds you to check the back seat before you get out of the car
Comfortable and supple, according to Consumer Reports, the Subaru Forester works great for smaller families who don't want an SUV but still want a car with good off-road capabilities and standard all-wheel drive. New for 2021, the top safety-rated Subaru added steering responsive headlights (the lights move in the direction you steer) high beam assist and a rear seatbelt reminder that tells you exactly which passenger in your car is unbuckled).
Best family-friendly features:
Comfortable seating for five
11.6-inch vertical touch screen in the center console
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity
Roomy rear seats
Two USB ports in front; two optional in the rear.
Built-in WiFi hotspot connectivity
Power rear gate
Remote engine start lets you warm up or cool down your car from your smartphone
Safety features:
Standard all-wheel drive on all models
EyeSight with advanced safety keeps you a safe distance from the car in front of you; it also detects objects in front of you that you're likely to hit and reduces power to the engine to help minimize the force and impact of a collision
Blind spot detection system notifies you if it detects vehicles in your blind spots
Automatic pre-collision braking
Adaptive cruise control with lane-centering technology
Lane departure warning will notify you if you stray out of your lane
Subaru Starlink will alert an operator if your car is involved in a crash and get you roadside help at the push of a button
Front and rear camera views keep you from missing anything on the road in front or behind you
Standard rear seatbelt reminder will tell you which seat is unbuckled.
Rear occupant reminder will remind you to check the back seat before you get out of the car
My Subaru app lets you set speed limits and boundaries to alert you if your (teenage) driver is speeding or going somewhere they're not supposed to go
This relative newbie in the midsize SUV class has wowed critics for its "cavernous interior, long list of creature comforts and long-trip-worthy road manners," according to Cars.com. Consumer Reports also hailed it as "surprisingly agile handling for its size." In a nutshell, this beauty's got some of the same style and upscale features as its higher-end counterparts—with a price far below them.
Best family-friendly features:
Seating for seven
Second-row captains chairs available, to make getting to the third row easier
Available panoramic sunroof
Second and third rows can be stowed flat for storage (or car camping!)
Apple Car Play/ Android Auto so you can easily play content from your phone
Five USB ports, two 12-volt outlets and a 115-volt household-style outlet keep everyone plugged in and entertained
Large second row and large door openings make it easier to get kiddos into those bulky rear-facing seats
Roomy third row makes seating easy, even when adults need to sit in the back
Safety features:
Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic warning and lane-keeping assist are all standard.
Road sign recognition
Rear view camera
Available with a turbo-charged, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with all-wheel drive
The CarNet app allows you to remote start your engine, lock and unlock the doors, honk the horn and flash the lights—right from the app. It will also alert you when your vehicle has traveled outside of a preset "safe" zone (for when your kids are driving and you want to keep tabs on them)
The Intelligent Crash System will—in the event of an accident in which the airbags are deployed—turn off the fuel pump, unlock the doors and activate the hazard lights
Post collision Braking System that will slow the vehicle down after a collision, helping reduce the chance of any additional impacts
Named one of the Best Cars and Trucks for 2021 by Car & Driver magazine and Motor Trend's "Car of the Year" last year, the eight-passenger Kia Telluride has the tech to satisfy the kids and has the safety and reliability parents want. Plus, it's luxurious cabin earns rave reviews, with one C&D reviewer saying that "you get the experience of a luxury SUV without any pretense or badge-snob affectation."
Best family-friendly features:
Seating for up to eight
Available heated and ventilated front and second-row seats
In-car intercom to talk to rear passengers
Available reclining dual captain's chairs that slide forward with the push of a button for easy access to the third row
Dual rear sunroofs
USB ports for all passengers plus available wireless charging
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to easily connect your music and apps
Remote climate feature that lets you use your phone to warm up or cool down your car before you get inside
Find My Car system helps you locate your car in a crowded parking lot
One-touch sliding and folding second and third-row seats
Safety features:
Blind spot view monitor shows a live feed of your right rear blind spots and stops you if you try to change lanes while an object is detected in the blind spot
Rear occupant alert system can tell if you left your car with someone in the back seat—and alerts you accordingly
Standard Safe Exit Assist helps you get off the freeway without worry
Head Up display gives you important driving information (speed and road turns) on the front dash so you don't have to look down at your console while driving
Smart cruise control keeps your car a safe distance from the car in front of you and stops your car if needed
Emergency braking and warning system will warn you if you're approaching a stopped object and will apply brakes if needed
Lane-keeping technology keeps you from straying out of your lane
With its elegant interior and long range of safety features, the Volvo XC90 has consistently ranked highly in Edmunds list of Best Family Cars. New for 2021, Volvo has added adaptive headlights, front parking sensors, and a smartphone charging pad which now comes standard. Plus, there's also an optional hybrid version of the car that has all the stellar features of the original with the added bonus of a 55 miles-per-gallon fuel economy with the hybrid engine that allows you to use electric power when you want to and gas-power when you need to.
Best family-friendly features:
Comfortable seating for six (or seven if the second row middle seat is installed)
Apple Carplay & Android Auto comes standard
Two full sets of LATCH car-seat connectors in the second row, as well as a tether anchor for the middle seat
Massage function available for front seats (available in the T8 Hybrid model only)
Four-zone climate control keeps you cool up front even when your tots want it toasty in the back
Hands-free power liftgate
In-car WiFi hotspot
Safety features:
Intellisafe Assist offers adaptive cruise control, pilot assist and distance alert (all of which will keep you a safe distance from the car in front of you and in the center of your lane)
Road sign recognition
Rear cross-traffic alert will notify you if traffic is crossing behind you as you back up
Drowsy driver notifications
Forward collision warning sends a warning if a forward collision is imminent and automatically applies the brakes if needed
Blind spot and lane departure warnings
Optional protective grill keeps the contents of your trunk from flying forward in an accident (and works great as a barrier for your traveling dog).
"Red Key" remote, which can be given to younger drivers (or valet drivers) to encourage responsible driving. When used, it won't let your car go above 75 mph and will emit a warning when the car goes over 30, 45, and 50 mph. Also, it can restrict the volume level so your kids can't blast the radio while driving
Integrated second row booster seat that can be hidden in the seatback when not in use
Optional hands-free park assist as well as surround-view parking camera system.
This hefty family hauler—which was named one of the best three-row SUVs of 2020 by Motor Trend, with Edmunds calling it "one of the most luxuriously trimmed vehicles in the class"—checks out at less than $50,000 but comes with upscale touches including heated (and ventilated) first and second-row seats, an available in-car intercom, and a slew of safety features. New for 2021, Hyundai introduces Calligraphy, the "most premium Palisade" available, with an extra-sleek design, lighting enhancements, exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels, and quilted leather seating and door surfaces.
Best family-friendly features:
Seating for up to eight
Available in-car intercom lets you break up drive-time squabbles without raising your voice
Second-row captains chairs available, to make getting to the third row easier
Available dual sunroof
Available third-row power-folding seats
One-touch second-row access (another way to get into the back seat easily)
Apple Car Play/ Android Auto so you can easily play content from your phone
Second-row/ Optional third-row USB ports, plus wireless device charging in the front seat
Hands-free lift-gate for easy access to the trunk
Safety features:
Forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection
Smart cruise control automatically slows your car down to keep a safe distance from the car in front of you—and will even bring your car to a complete stop on its own if needed
Lane-keeping assist
Blind spot collision avoidance assist (on SEL and Limited models)
Available all-wheel drive
Driver attention warning sounds an audible tone or visual alert if it detects driver fatigue or inattention
Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance lets you know if there is a car approaching from the left or right when you're backing up—and will apply the brakes automatically if needed
Rear occupant alert system will remind you to check the rear seats before exiting when you turn off the engine; additionally, overhead ultrasonic sensors will monitor the back seat and activate a honking horn and flashing lights—as well as send an alert to your smartphone—if any movement is detected
Safe exit assist won't let you open your car door if sensors detect a car approaching from the rear
Surround view monitor shows a top-down view of your SUV when you park so you can avoid curbs (and other cars)
For big families that need lots of space for stuff, pets or gear, Car & Driver magazine called the 2021 Yukon "hard to beat." Listed at the top of the magazine's SUV rankings, it's got three rows of seating plus a roomy trunk that'll easily fit strollers, bikes or your dog if that's what you're going for (especially if you go for the XL model). New for 2021: This year's version is said to be better equipped, have a roomier cabin and more cargo space than last year's model.
Best family-friendly features:
Seating for seven
Second-row captains seats with Power-Assist fold and a walk-through console so your kids can easily get to the third row
Power-fold third row for when you've got to carry gear, luggage, or the dog in the back
Hands-free liftgate for easy access into the trunk
Second-row USB ports, plus optional wireless device charging in the front seat
A 10.1-inch screen in the front seat looks like an iPad (in other words, kids will love it)
Remote start system lets the car warm up before you get in
Optional massaging seats in the ST and Platinum trims
In-car WiFi
Safety features:
Forward collision warning
Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
Lane-keeping assist
Blind-Spot warning
Available all-wheel drive
Cross-traffic alert
360-degree camera
Adaptive cruise control with speed sign recognition and lane-centering technology is available on upper trims
If you like a rugged-looking car that's big enough to carry all the kids, dogs and gear your gang takes on the road, the Expedition has an impressive interior, loads of fun tech (massaging seats!) and four-wheel drive capabilities that make it easy to traverse snowy terrain. Edmunds rated it as its favorite large SUV for 2021, while Car & Driver called it a "workhorse for active families."
Best family-friendly features:
Huge interior cargo space, especially in the MAX version (which is a foot longer than the standard model).
Seating for up to 8
Optional second-row captains seats with a walk-through console so your kids can easily get to the third row
Power-fold second and third row for when you've got to carry gear, luggage, or the dog in the back
Hands-free liftgate for easy access into the trunk
Second-row USB ports, plus optional wireless device charging in the front seat
8-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; rear seat entertainment systems available on the Limited, King Ranch and Platinum trims.
Remote start system lets the car warm up before you get in
Optional massaging front seats available in higher trims
In-car WiFi
Safety features:
Forward collision warning
Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
Lane-keeping assist
Blind-Spot warning
Available all-wheel drive
Cross-traffic alert
360-degree camera
Adaptive cruise control with speed sign recognition and lane-centering technology is available on upper trims
Sure, there's no denying it's a "Mom car," but there's a reason the Honda Odyssey has won Kelley Blue Books "Minivan Best Buy" award three years in a row, with Forbes calling it "still the best family car you can buy": It's got everything a parent needs to haul around a small tribe of children. If the interior vacuum cleaner doesn't sell you (seriously, so necessary), here are a few more reasons to check it out.
Best family-friendly features:
Seats up to eight, with LATCH accommodations for up to five car seats (it's also the only minivan to earn an IIHS top rating for ease of use of its LATCH child seat attachment hardware)
Built-in vacuum helps keep all those crumbs away
Interior camera helps parents keep an eye on the back seats, even in the dark
DVD player and folding 10-inch screen for movies and games
"Cabin Talk" feature helps the driver talk to the rear passengers through the rear speakers and the DVD headphones
Split-folding third row offers room for strollers (even unfolded ones) and offers hefty storage space when seats aren't folded into the floor
Remote start abilities let you warm up or cool down the car before you step inside
Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto
Optional cellular plan that'll allow you to stream videos directly to your car
In-car WiFi supports 4G LTE wireless streaming
Wireless charging pad in front seat as well as front and rear USB ports
Sun shades for second and third row passengers
Tri-zone climate control
Hands-free power tailgate lets you open the trunk by kicking your foot under the rear bumper
Safety features:
Eight standard airbags, including knee airbags for the front seats and side-impact curtain protection for all three rows
All trims include Honda Sensing (which features Collision Mitigation Braking System with Pedestrian Detection; Forward Collision Warning; Road Departure Mitigation, incorporating Lane Departure Warning; Lane Keeping Assist System; traffic sign recognition; and Active cruise control with a forward-collision warning system)
Automatic emergency braking applies the brakes when the car detects that a frontal collision is unavoidable
Lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist and Road Departure Mitigation all help keep you from veering off the road
Blind spot information system will alert you if vehicles are detected in your blind spots when you're changing lanes
Multi-angle rearview camera gives you extra eyes when you're backing up
Snow Mode recalibrates the car's traction system to give you more control in winter weather
Rear seat occupant reminder notifies you to check the back seats before you get out
The top-rated minivan by Consumer Reports, the 2021 Toyota Sienna has a slew of tech and safety features that make it a perfect people mover—and now all Siennas come standard with a gasoline-electric hybrid engine to save you a little on gas money. Plus, the 2021 debuts a redesigned look, and while the Sienna still looks like a Mom Car, it's got a slightly sportier look than in years past.
Best family-friendly features:
Seating for eight
Dual Blue Ray disc entertainment center featuring a 16.4 inch split-screen capable overhead display for kids to watch movies—plus two wireless headphones so those movies are for their ears only;
ISD and HDMI inputs plus two AC power outlets
Dual moonroofs give everyone in the car a view of the sky
Available dual power sliding doors that can be activated from the car's remote
Smart Key system lets you open the car doors by touching the handle and start the car with the push of a button (as long as the key is in your pocket or nearby)
Split & Stow third-row seat makes for plenty of available cargo space by folding the third-row seat into the floor
Auto access seat helps people with disabilities easily get in and out of the car by rotating the second-row seat outward and lowering it to nearly ground level
Driver Easy Speak System projects your voice to the back row, so your kids will hear you talking to them (most of the time, anyway)
Available WiFi connectivity through Verizon allows up to five users to connect to the car at one time (monthly charges apply)
Five USB ports to keep all those devices powered
With standard hybrid powertrain, you get up 36 mpg, a rare feat for a minivan
Sliding second-row seats can help third-row passengers get a little more legroom
Lower floor makes it easier for kids (and grandparents) to climb aboard
Safety features:
Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection will stop your vehicle if needed
Brake assist plus Smart stop technology
Dynamic radar cruise control keeps you at a safe distance from other cars
Available all-wheel drive (unusual for a minivan)
Blind spot detection system alerts you if a car or object is in your blind spot
Read cross traffic alert provides audible and visual alerts if there's something behind you or approaching your car when you're backing up
Lane departure alert with steering assist will detect if you're straying from your lane and help you by making "corrective steering inputs" to keep you in your lane
Automatic high beams activate high beams when it is night and the in-vehicle camera doesn't detect any cars in front of you
Backup camera plus Birds Eye View panoramic camera lets you see everything that's around you
Amazon Kids+ is an all-in-one subscription that gives kids access to thousands of kid-friendly books, movies, TV shows, educational apps, Audible books and games. This game-changing subscription works on a bunch of different compatible devices: Amazon Fire tablets, Android, iOS, Fire TV, Kindle and Echo devices. Keep reading to see why we love this smart subscription service.
1. Tons of Content You’ll Both Love
Your little ones will love that they get to explore all on their own, while you’ll love knowing their adventures entail only age-appropriate content. And when we say "explore", we mean it—Amazon Kids+ over 20,000 pieces of content to play, listen, read and watch.
Hilarious videos: Check. Challenging games: Check. Fun digital learning: Check! An Amazon Kids+ subscription is quantity meets quality, with kid-loved content like videos from Blippi, games from Toca Boca and engaging at-home learning with HOMER. Plus, the fun doesn't stop with their tablet. Your family can also access content on Fire TV, or discover new premium kid’s skills on your Echo devices.
2. Smart Parental Controls
With an Amazon Kids+ subscription, you’ll get access to easy-to-use parental controls that let you choose a balance between education and entertainment. In the app, you can personalize screen time limits, set educational goals, filter age-appropriate content and even manage web browsing to create a safe digital space for your kids!
3. A Seriously Incredible Price
If we had to pick a favorite perk of Amazon Kids+, it'd be the budget-friendly price. The all-in-one subscription service starts as low as $2.99 a month for Prime members, or you can get a 1-year family plan membership for up for four kids for just $69 ($99 for non-Prime)! Content from trusted brands like Nickelodeon, Disney and PBS for just a few dollars a month? Count us in. Plus, for a limited time take advantage of a kid-tastic Holiday offer and save 70% on a 1-year family plan membership (usually $69.99)! Terms apply.
The geniuses at Google recently launched Google Kids Space, an all-new tablet experience with tons of customizable content for kids! Google gave my family a tablet to give it a whirl. My four-year-old son, Watson, took it for a test drive and I haven’t been able to pry the tablet out of his hands since. I’m cool as a cucumber though because combined with Google’s Family Link, I get updates on everything he’s streaming. This is huge: Google made sure all Kids Space content is age appropriate and focused on your kid’s interests. While he’s entertained, I found some time to myself to tell you all about it. Read on to learn about how Google Kids Space is a whole new frontier of fun!
Family (Link) First
No-brainer, super easy set up here. All you need is a select Android tablet, like the user-friendly Lenovo Tab M10 (2nd Gen) or Lenovo Smart Tab M10 (2nd Gen). You don’t need a subscription to sign up for Family Link or Kids Space, so no “Mom, can I have your credit card to download this?” and subsequent freak out when you say no. So yes, I fell in love immediately because I love FREE.
First, you need a Google Account managed by Family Link for your child so you can help guide their experience. I set up Watson’s account during the tablet setup, then downloaded Google’s Family Link app to manage his experience remotely from my phone. Now I can see what he’s up to, including apps he’s installed. Typically, this kid is into unboxing videos that compel him to beg me to buy every product created in the past five years. But it’s a new day with Kids Space, and I’m gleefully delighted because this is all free AND I see he’s downloaded four apps all categorized “educational”—so proud, thank you, Kids Space! You’ve saved my wallet and my sanity.
I can do other cool and helpful things with Family Link:
Add or remove content filters.
See my child's device location (very helpful if your kid tends to lose things).
See which apps he uses most during the week.
Set daily screen time limits and lock the device when it’s time for a break
I love that I can be sneaky and set these things up on my end using just my phone—without touching his precious tablet, ahh!
Set up for Success (and Fun)
All I can say is, wow. There are so many fun little touches that personalize the experience. First up, Watson chose his interests; cooking, stories, animals and lots more. Next: Creating his character (this was a big hit). I’m impressed with how many characteristic choices there are. It’s inclusive and sets the right tone: everyone is welcome! Choose options to look just like you or someone else entirely. Watson had a blast customizing his creation with just the right shoes and accessories. It was adorable when he was done and exclaimed, “that’s me!”
A Whole New World
Once your avatar is set, the action begins! Kids Space pulls you into a cool new universe. The screen effects are super exciting and got many oohs, ahhs, and “that is so cool” shout outs from Watson (and me!). Once we “landed,” there was a sign to greet him—now his character, face mask and all, were ready for action. The content layout is crisp, engaging and easy to navigate. You’ll feel like kids in a candy store!
Content Crazy
The first thing we clicked on? Joke of the day! Next, we hit the fun facts! I was impressed with how the recommended content was bundled and neatly organized. Kudos because clearly, they Marie Kondo-ed it so we don’t have to. It was surprising to me how much recognizable content is available since it’s free! Watson was super pumped to seeSesame Street, Nick Jr., PBS Kids and discovered a bunch of new things, too (hello, Highlights!). Bonus: The library of books available is more extensive than any app I’ve seen, and again, ALL FREE.
There’s something extraordinary about the layout here: Aside from the custom content, there are action-based tabs at the bottom of the screen. The categories are Play, Read, Watch and Make, all of which encourage playfulness and exploration on and off screen, rather than couch potato-ing.
In summary: 100% recommend! Do yourself a favor and get a tablet with Google Kids Space before the holiday break. Boredom? Never heard of ‘em!
Disclaimer: The tablet for this sponsored post was provided by Google Kids Space.
Common Sense Networks has announced a brand new project for 2021: the launch of Sensical. The free streaming platform will offer age-appropriate, short-form videos for kids 2-12 with thousands of options.
Sensical will be divided into three categories: Preschoolers (ages 2-4), Little kids (ages 5-7) and Big kids (ages 8-12), each with filters that will provide parents with peace of mind when it comes to providing content.
photo: Common Sense Media
The platform’s interface will give kids the opportunity to select from hundreds of topics, and parents have the option to select a specific age range on behalf of their children. Every frame of the videos found on Sensical have been “viewed, vetted and rated by individuals trained in child development and Sensical’s rubric” to ensure that all content meets the standards of Common Sense Media’s 15 years of research and advocacy.
Common Sense Networks CEO Eric Berger says “Sensical’s mission is to ignite kids’ passions, fuel curiosity, build bridges between children and their parents and make everyone part of the learning journey. As a free platform offering only age-appropriate fare, we remove every obstacle to accessing a comprehensive, trusted resource for entertaining short-form video from the best possible content creators. Every family can afford to add Sensical to their personal bundle and we couldn’t be more excited to create a distinctive alternative for parents and partner with them in their goal to raise good humans.”
Sensical is partnering with tons of brands and franchises to bring content to kids. Some of these include Cosmic Kids Yoga, ABC Commercial (The Wiggles), Awesome Forces (The Aquabats), Big Big Holdings LLC (It’s A Big Big World), CBC & Radio-Canada Distribution, 9 Story Distribution International (Ruby’s Studio, Zerby Derby), Sesame Workshop (Pinky Dinky Doo, Sesame Studios), Studio 100 (Maya the Bee, Small Potatoes), and more.
Parents will be able to access the Sensical Parent Zone, a dashboard tool that enables them to review and manage all viewing activity, in addition to reports on what and how long their kids watch as well as the unique social, emotional and cognitive skills they are learning from the videos they are viewing.
Sensical launches in early 2021 on an array of streaming devices, smart TVs and mobile devices (iOS and Android) as a free, branded ad-supported app and live-streaming channels on all major OTT (over the top) platforms.
This holiday season will be like any other and not seeing far away friends and family may be hard on our little ones. CNN and Sesame Street are teaming up next Saturday for their fifth Town Hall to help families prepare for a very different holiday season. The hour-long special, The ABCs of COVID-19, will be hosted by CNN’s Chief Medical Correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta and Anchor Erica Hill, along with Sesame Street’s Big Bird and friends on Saturday, Dec. 19 at 10 a.m. ET on CNN, CNN International and CNN en Español.
Familiar faces from Sesame Street and experts from CNN and across the country will be ready to answer children’s questions about staying healthy through the winter months, celebrating the holidays while distanced from extended family and friends, and coping with big feelings as they continue to face unprecedented challenges in their young lives.
The special will stream live without requiring a log-in on CNN’s homepage and across mobile devices via CNN’s apps for iOS and Android. It can also be viewed on CNNgo and via CNNgo apps for Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire, Chromecast, and Android TV) and will be available on demand to subscribers via cable/satellite systems, CNNgo platforms, and CNN mobile apps.
This year, CNN and Sesame Street have collaborated on five Town Halls for children and families, meeting them in moments of challenge and crisis through the COVID-19 pandemic and racial justice movement.
Family. We love the heck out of them, but they can be the toughest to shop for. If you’re stuck in an “I’ll just give them a fancy candle.” rut, you came to the right article. We’ve found a high-tech (but simple), wow (but affordable), gift that any parent, grandparent, even dog parent will adore. Read on for three reasons we love the Aura digital frame!
Enter “getgifting” at auraframes.com for 15% off. Expires 1/31/2021
Ultimate Storage & Sharing
Aura digital frames are beautifully designed WiFi frames that connect people worldwide through a delightfully simple photo sharing experience. Got a big family? No problem! Enjoy 10,000+ photos and invite as many people as you'd like through the Aura app with zero subscription fees. Even if you're scattered across the globe, you can stay connected through shared memories on your Aura frame. (We were thinking the same thing—there could not be a better time for this!)
Easy for All
Aura frames are super easy to set up and use (even for the technologically challenged). You can even add photos ahead of time, and like the magical elf you are, surprise someone special with personalized memories, and POOF!—they'll appear on the frame! Not to mention the super high-res, auto-brightness adjusting display means your photos always look their best, even that surprise-attack photo your kiddo took of you before you had coffee—no bueno.
With its interactive frame controls, you can change photos, view details, and share the love with the swipe of a finger. Save time with Aura's smart curation photo tools that help find your best photos, avoiding duplicates and blurry shots. Then choose your photos, and they'll appear on your frame like magic, wherever it is in the world. No memory cards required—just happy memories relived.
Gorgeous Design
Because why would you frame your loved ones in anything less? Aura makes gorgeous, living room-worthy frames that are the ultimate gift this holiday. No wonder it's a two-time favorite for Oprah, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes Magazine, was named Top Pick for Best Digital Frame in Wirecutter and more!
Each Aura frame is thoughtfully designed and meticulously crafted from materials like wood or stainless steel mesh, and the crystal clear screen resolution means your photos are museum level. (Disclaimer: not actually, but they'll look darn fine.) Finally, a screen that's display worthy in your home! Beyond convenient technology, Your Aura frame is sure to get a lot of "oohs" and "ahhs" and "Did you know my birthday is coming up?" from friends and family—take the hint.
The Aura app is compatible with iOs and Android.
Enter “getgifting” at auraframes.com for 15% off. Expires 1/31/2021
