Target Deal Days Are Back & They Start THIS Weekend

by Karly WoodOctober 9, 2021

It’s only October but that why wait until Black Friday to start your holiday shopping? Target Deal Days are back!

From Sun. Oct. 10-Tues. Oct. 12 Target is sharing its lineup of deals at Target.com, on the Target app and in all stores (for the first time ever!). So what kind of deals are we talking about?

photo: Courtesy of Target

Head to Target starting this Sunday to get access to thousands of deals on electronics, apparel, kitchen appliances, TV’s and more. And this year, you don’t have to rush to get that amazing price.

Target has updated their holiday price match guarantee to start even earlier and run from Oct. 10-Dec. 24. Shoppers can request a price adjustment on all items purchased at Target (check the company’s policy for a few exceptions) if the price is lowered during the holiday season. Not only that, Target will continue to price match select competitors pricing within 14 days of purchase.

Who’s ready for some shopping?

—Karly Wood

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Sesame Workshop Adds More Resources to Free Autism Program

by Karly WoodOctober 4, 2021

Sesame Workshop is helping families in yet another way! As part of its Sesame Street and Autism: See Amazing in All Children initiative, the organization is launching new resources to help families cope with challenges, create new routines and embrace flexibility.

Julia continues to be at the center of Sesame Workshop’s program, a four-year-old with autism. In partnership with Exceptional Minds, the pair are releasing a new animated video that follows Julia along as she copes with her fear of the dark.

Not only will families be able to tune in to the new video, but they can also take advantage of new coloring pages, activity sheets and Good Night routine cards to help children develop a healthy bedtime routine. Printables will all be available at sesamestreet.org/autism and are free to everyone.

Additionally Sesame Workshop is partnering with Friends of Children with Special Needs (FCSN) to launch new versions of We’re Amazing 1, 2, 3 digital storybooks in both Mandarin and Cantonese.

––Karly Wood

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6 Free Tech Tools That Are Perfect for Parents

by Kenzie KramerSeptember 28, 2021

Whether you’re using tech at home, at school or at work, it seems like new tools are coming out every day. So, how do you know which ones are best for your family? Microsoft has trusted tech tools that make it easier for families to get organized, stay connected, explore safely, save money and so much more! Bonus: Get started for free.

Keep reading to learn more about the smart tech tools:

Microsoft Edge

Your internet browser is how your family explores the online world, and while they all let you discover content, some of them work harder for you than others. Microsoft Edge makes it so easy for parents to score savings by scanning the web for coupons and price comparisons—doing the leg work for you! Edge also helps you pick the best products online by pulling in expert ratings and reviews. Learn more about Microsoft Edge shopping features.

Microsoft Edge Kids Mode

Just like us, kids are also spending more time online. Microsoft Edge makes it easy to switch into Kids Mode: an online experience, built into the browser. Kids Mode is tailored just for their age range, which keeps them away from inappropriate content, while still enjoying the web. Learn more about Microsoft Edge Kids Mode.

Microsoft Family Safety

Spending time online is fun, but without boundaries, many kids would scroll for hours. Microsoft Family Safety helps kids build healthy digital habits by setting screen time limits that apply to devices, apps, and games. It also gives parents an activity summary so you know how they’re using their online time! Learn more about Microsoft Family Safety.

Microsoft Teams

When you can’t be in the same room as loved ones, Microsoft Teams makes it easy to connect—even with your not-so-tech-savvy friend. Simply send a link for a video call or start a chat and they’re in—even if they’re not on Teams. Learn more about Microsoft Teams.

Microsoft 365

Between work, school and activities, you've got a lot to keep track of! The free Microsoft 365 apps have all the tools you need to stay organized. Find that email with Outlook search, manage your family budget with a template from Excel and sign that permission form from anywhere with Office Mobile. To help you stay on top of it all, you can even prioritize those tasks with Microsoft To Do. Learn more about Microsoft 365.

OneDrive Personal Vault

You need your files to be secure, but you also need to be able to access them when and where you need them. Enter OneDrive Personal Vault: an extra layer of security for important documents and files. Now you can keep digital copies of your passport, driver’s license and insurance documents along with your family photos and videos, all secured in OneDrive Personal Vault so you have them if you need them. Personal Vault keeps your most sensitive files protected using identity verification. Learn more about OneDrive Personal Vault.

If You Think Today’s Kids Are Harder to Parent, This Study Agrees With You

by Sarah ShebekSeptember 22, 2021

Are today’s kids harder to parent? A new study found that most Americans think so, thanks to the prevalence of technology in our everyday lives. But what to do about it?

In a survey of 2,000 American parents, 80% agreed parenting is more challenging than it was 30 years ago due to technology and 86% said kids grow up faster thanks to tech. They also reported that their kids spend an average of 43% of their free time connected online. COVID-19 has boosted that trend, with four in five parents saying they’ve allowed their kids more screen time during the pandemic.

What’s the most worrying online issue? Parents said that negative interactions on social media (55%) were most concerning, followed by inappropriate content (54%). Cyberbullying (38%) and violent video games (23%) were also listed as reoccurring concerns.

Most parents surveyed said that it was their responsibility to monitor their kid’s online activity. They achieve this by employing a family media plan (43%), implementing daily screen limits (43%) using parental control software (42%) and reinforcing “screen free zones” around the house (36%). The study was conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Smith Micro Software.

Need some more tips on how to keep your kids safe in the digital age? We’ve got them! And remember, quality screen time makes a world of difference, especially since tech isn’t going anywhere. After all, it also has plenty of benefits!

—Sarah Shebek

Featured image courtesy of Pixabay

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Come Work with Us! Hiring Savvy Writers in San Diego

by Kate LowethSeptember 22, 2021

It’s been a year, and we need savvy parents like you to help local families navigate the ups and downs of life in San Diego, CA!

Do you love exploring your city with your family, uncovering local hidden gems, and then dishing to your friends about your awesome weekend? Are you a parent or caregiver living in San Diego with kids between the ages of 0-10? Are you active in the digital writing/blogging community? If you answered yes to these questions, then Red Tricycle & Tinybeans wants you!

Red Tricycle/Tinybeans is looking for talented San Diego-based writers to join our team and contribute stories to our San Diego metro market. Ideal candidates must:

• Have a firm grasp of the English language, excellent grammar and punctuation skills.

• Be active in the writing and blogging community with published work (either print or online).

• Possess an intense curiosity and excitement to explore the city and dig deep (both online and in the real world) to find off-the-beaten-path story ideas and insider tips.

Our mission is simple: to help busy parents have more fun with their kids!

Good luck!

To apply Email Us at aimee.dellabitta (at) tinybeans.com your cover letter, resume, and writing sample with “San Diego Writer” in the subject line.

Here’s How to Say Thanks With Krispy Kreme Donuts & Get a Free Dozen, Too

by Sarah ShebekSeptember 20, 2021

It’s no secret that we love a good BOGO. And when it’s a BOGO involving donuts, that’s even better! Krispy Kreme is celebrating World Gratitude Day with a whole week of a sweet offer: send a dozen donuts and get a dozen in return.

Starting tomorrow you can send the sweet treat (with free gift wrap) straight to the door of someone you want to thank. Head to KrispyKreme.com or the brand’s app and select the World Gratitude Week Bundle, which comes in either an original glazed or classic assorted dozen. To get the free decorated sleeve, select the Custom Gift option and add THANKS in the checkout code.

As long as your recipient lives within 10 miles of most Krispy Kreme shops, delivery is available. But if not, you can order the donuts for pickup and deliver them in person! Once you’ve ordered, you’ll receive a digital voucher for a free original glazed dozen, to redeem in stores through October 27.

While you’re ordering, make sure to grab the last fall glaze flavor that’s available this month. You can order maple-flavored donuts until Friday. Celebrate a new season with Krispy Kreme!

––Sarah Shebek

Featured image courtesy of Krispy Kreme

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The Best Way to Celebrate the Holidays at Disneyland? This New Event

by Karly WoodSeptember 13, 2021

Halloween Time may have just kicked off at the Disneyland Resort, but that doesn’t mean the magic makers aren’t prepping for the holiday season, too. Not only can park goers expect plenty of festive food, music, entertainment and decor, but Disney is offering a brand new, limited-capacity event!

Disney Merriest Nites brings Mickey Mouse and his friends together for six themed parties all rolled into one throughout Disneyland on five select nights in November and December. Access to the nights requires a separate ticket, but will give you after-hours access to select attractions, entertainment and all with limited capacity.

As part of the festivities, Mickey Mouse kicks off the party on Main Street, U.S.A. with Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy and friends. Head to New Orleans Square to see Princess Tiana’s bayou-inspired celebration, and you’ll find Miguel from Coco over in Frontierland.

The three remaining celebrations involve Lilo & Stitch in Adventureland, Elsa in Fantasyland with lots of winter vibes and Buzz Lightyear in Tomorrowland. Each party features themed photo backdrops, character sightings and festive food and drink.

Guests will be able to hop on attractions with far fewer crowds, especially taking advantage of the dressed up “it’s a small world” Holiday and Haunted Mansion Holiday, in addition to a special viewing of “A Christmas Fantasy” Parade.

For the evening, park guests can also take advantage of unlimited Disney Photopass digital downloads!

Disney Merriest Nites will take place on Nov. 11, Nov. 16, Nov. 30, Dec. 7 and Dec. 9. You can purchase beginning Sept. 14, at approximately 9 a.m. on Disneyland.com and the Disneyland app.

––Karly Wood

All photos: Courtesy of Disneyland Resort

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Time for a Target Run: Lovevery Is Now Available in the Baby Aisle

by Karly WoodAugust 24, 2021

Lovevery is on nearly every mom-to-be’s baby registry. The stage-based play essential subscription box offers timeless toys perfect for every age (and let’s face it, is adorable).

Now, you don’t have to subscribe to grab the brand’s signature products: just head to Target! Starting today, Lovevery is dropping a new lineup of Playthings exclusively for Target and it’s just as fabulous as shopping from the OG site.

The new collection of Lovevery Playthings is already available in the baby aisle and includes classics like The Play Gym and The Block Set, in addition to Target-only items for children zero to 18 months. The collaboration makes access to the company’s developmental products easier than ever.

Each new product is available for under $25 and comes with access to a Digital Play Guide, expert tutorials, play ideas, activities, developmental tips and stage-based emails. You can shop all the products at participating Target stores and at Target.com. Certain products will only be available in-store, so don’t miss the baby aisle on your next Target run.

––Karly Wood

All photos: Courtesy of Target

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Support Your Kids 365 Days a Year with This Kit (& a Year’s Supply of Rice Krispies Treats!)

by Karly WoodAugust 19, 2021

As parents, we want to give our kids everything we may have missed growing up and then some. In fact, a recent survey from Rice Krispies Treats found that 86% of parents experienced moments where they needed more support and love from their parents during childhood.

To help inspire caregivers, Rice Krispies Treats has paired up with award-winning actress and singer Idina Menzel to provide an easy way to provide the love and support kids need. Starting today, parents can enter to grab a limited-edition Rice Krispies Treats “365 Days of Love and Support Kit” that includes tools for self-reflection and daily encouragement.

photo: Courtesy of Rice Krispies Treats

Each kit includes a one-of-a-kind daily planner with inspirational prompts and a pen to use with the planner and on Rice Krispies Treats wrappers. Oh yeah, did we mention the kit comes with a year’s supply of Rice Krispies Treats?

While every kiddo likely loves a sweet treat, the true love comes from the message from mom and dad on the writable wrapper.

From Aug. 19-26, head to RiceKrispiesTreats.Fooji.com or visit Idina’s Instagram to enter to win a kit. All entries will win a digital version of the planner, along with a note from Idina herself. Lucky winners will earn the kit and the year’s supply of treats for never-ending love and support.

––Karly Wood

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School Supplies from the ’80s & ’90s That You’ll Totally Remember

by Shahrzad WarkentinAugust 18, 2021

Back-to-school time is always a perfect time to get nostalgic about your own days in the classroom, but things have changed a lot since you were the one sitting behind the desk. From hand-operated (gasp!) pencil sharpeners to everyone’s favorite folders, scroll down to re-discover some of the school supplies you probably couldn’t live without.

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Trapper Keepers helped you stay organized. But it was the outside design that stole the show.

Scented markers made your papers smell delicious. Lucky for kids everywhere, they're still going strong and available anywhere school supplies are sold.

Pencil sharpeners had to be operated by hand.

You put trolls on your pencils way before Poppy and Branch were cool.

You kept your papers in the whimsical yet slightly psychedelic Lisa Frank folders. Buy this vintage gem at eBay!

You hoped Kissing Potion lip gloss really worked. You can still find it on Amazon!

You loved your Walkman...and the mixed tapes your friends made for it!

You loved when your teacher rewarded good grades with Scratch And Sniff Stickers on your test papers.

You used a tape recorder and had to hit rewind...a lot.

Remember when all your information came from the Encyclopedia instead of Google or Alexa?

And in order to find exactly which Encylopedia you needed, there was the ever-handy card catalog.

Learning to spell was fun with Speak & Spell. And then E.T. used one and sealed its fate as a classic '80s relic.

Avoiding dysentery and watching out for thieves along the Oregon Trail was all part of the educational fun.

Overhead projectors with their erasable transparency sheets have long been retired to make way for projectors that connect to laptops and tablets.

Rainy day movies meant rolling the AV cart out and popping in a VHS for recess time.

Bento boxes with Instagrammable food art have replaced plastic lunch boxes packed with fruit roll ups and gummy sharks (don't forget your matching Thermos!).

Long before the magical cloud existed, these bad boys were all the storage you needed—as long as you didn’t lose them.

The original fidget spinners! Your Tamagotchi wasn't exactly a classroom essential, but at recess, the first thing you did was feed your digital pet.

—Sher Warkentin with Melissa Heckscher

Featured image: Vishwanatha Srinivasan via Pixabay

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School Supplies from the ’80s & ’90s That You’ll Totally Remember

Trapper Keepers helped you stay organized. But it was the outside design that stole the show.

Scented markers made your papers smell delicious. Lucky for kids everywhere, they're still going strong and available anywhere school supplies are sold.

Pencil sharpeners had to be operated by hand.

You put trolls on your pencils way before Poppy and Branch were cool.

You kept your papers in the whimsical yet slightly psychedelic Lisa Frank folders. Buy this vintage gem at eBay!

You hoped Kissing Potion lip gloss really worked. You can still find it on Amazon!

You loved your Walkman...and the mixed tapes your friends made for it!

You loved when your teacher rewarded good grades with Scratch And Sniff Stickers on your test papers.

You used a tape recorder and had to hit rewind...a lot.

Remember when all your information came from the Encyclopedia instead of Google or Alexa?

And in order to find exactly which Encylopedia you needed, there was the ever-handy card catalog.

Learning to spell was fun with Speak & Spell. And then E.T. used one and sealed its fate as a classic '80s relic.

Avoiding dysentery and watching out for thieves along the Oregon Trail was all part of the educational fun.

Overhead projectors with their erasable transparency sheets have long been retired to make way for projectors that connect to laptops and tablets.

Rainy day movies meant rolling the AV cart out and popping in a VHS for recess time.

Bento boxes with Instagrammable food art have replaced plastic lunch boxes packed with fruit roll ups and gummy sharks (don't forget your matching Thermos!).

Long before the magical cloud existed, these bad boys were all the storage you needed—as long as you didn’t lose them.

The original fidget spinners! Your Tamagotchi wasn't exactly a classroom essential, but at recess, the first thing you did was feed your digital pet.

Related reads