School is out for the summer and playgrounds are in full swing. Whether you’re headed to the high tech new spot across town or the old faithful equipment around the corner, accidents happen. That’s why the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons just released safety tips to keep your outside playtime fun, not frightening.

A child in the U.S. visits the emergency room for a playground-related injury every two-and-a-half minutes and ER departments see more than 220,000 children for these injuries each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But many of these incidents are preventable by following these tips:

  • Never go down a slide with a baby or toddler in your lap. The child’s foot can get caught underneath the adult’s leg and cause a twisting injury.
  • Make sure your kids play on age-appropriate playground equipment.
  • Check to see that there is enough space for children to easily get off the slide and look for crowding around exit areas.
  • Double check climbing devices to make sure the handholds are the right size and secure.
  • Swing seats are best made of plastic or rubber for better grip.
  • Stay away from equipment with openings where your child’s head could get stuck.
  • Make sure you can see your kids playing at all times.
  • Use playgrounds that have soft surfaces (wood chips, mulch or shredded rubber) as opposed to hard surfaces like asphalt.
  • In warm weather, check equipment before using to make sure it’s not too hot.
  • Finally, look out for tripping hazards like rocks or sticks and remove from the area before playing.

“In a natural effort to protect themselves, children often will fall on an outstretched hand and break the bones involving the wrist or elbow,” said Dr. Rachel Goldstein, pediatric orthopaedic surgeon at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. “By closely supervising children and making sure they are using equipment the way it is intended to be used, these injuries can be curbed. For example, no jumping from the swings and one person at a time on the slide.”

The next time you head out to play, keep these guidelines in mind for a little extra piece of mind. The AAOS has even more tips available at OrthoInfo.org. And get ready to enjoy unrestricted access to your favorite spaces!

Featured image: Sarah Pflug via Burst

 

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Never in history has it been more important to stay connected online. Working from home, social distancing and homeschooling can be isolating and overwhelming, so we’ve found over a dozen Facebook groups you can join to reach out and connect with other parents in the Boston community. Read on to find that support, shared knowledge and camaraderie are just a few clicks away in a local online group for parents.

istock

Boston Moms
This group of over 7,000 members is for moms in Boston and the South Shore area to connect for support and playdates (especially!) and to share interesting articles and advice pertaining to being a mom.

Polish Triangle Parents
Polish Triangle Parents (PTP) is an online community for parents living and/or working in Boston's Polish Triangle, a neighborhood in Dorchester.  

Boston South End Parents
Parents in the South End neighborhood of Boston can connect in this Facebook group to share area resources.

Somerville (and beyond) Parents
This is an informal group for parents in the Somerville, MA area. This group is designed to make it easier for parents to arrange get-togethers, seek advice, share articles or resources, and just get acquainted. Nannies, grandparents and other people who care for children are also welcome.

Boston Autism Moms/Dads
This is a support group for families of children with autism. The group's intention is to help parents share information about educational, medical and social supports and services. 

Shutterstock

Boston-Area Special Needs Parents
This group welcomes parents of children with special needs who live in Boston and its immediate surroundings. It is intended to help families in very close proximity connect on social, educational and medical issues; serve as a networking opportunity for parents who may wish to conveniently connect in person as well as online; and assist in the hyper-local share, resale, and trade of unwanted or excess medical supplies, durable medical equipment, and other specialized equipment that serves children with special needs.

Brookline Parents
This group draws parents from the Brookline neighborhood to arrange meet-ups, buy and sell kids items, offer advice and get to know neighbors with similarly-aged kids. 

Arlington Parents
This is a discussion group for parents and caregivers in and around Arlington, MA on topics related to parenting, children, caregiving, families, school and more. The group numbers over 6,000 members. 

AdobeStock

Newton Parents
This robust group of over 8.000 members is for parents in Newton, MA to communicate about local programs, classes and offerings. 

JP Families
This group is a grass-roots list organized by Jamaica Plain parents and guardians and those working towards adding children to their family who want to connect on Facebook, ask advice and find resources. Its local area is primarily Jamaica Plain, Roslindale, West Roxbury, Roxbury, Mission Hill and parts of Brookline/Dorchester/Hyde Park/Mattapan.

Boston Desi Parents
This group brings together parents who are interested in socializing and sharing Indian culture with their children. 

dad jokes for kids
iStock

Gay Dads of Greater Boston
This group aims to bring together gay dads raising kids in the greater Boston area and it adjacent cities and towns, so that their children can get to meet each other, play and develop a positive self-esteem. Also, gay dads can develop long-term friendships, allowing them to share support and ideas on how to raise happy, well-adjusted kids proud of their family composition

Braintree Moms
The Braintree Moms group has been set up as a resource for expectant, new and experienced moms (as well as female guardians) that are currently living in Braintree, MA or those planning on moving to the area. 

Quincy Moms
This group supports moms in Quincy, Braintree, Weymouth, Hingham and beyond.The group shares school information, tips for families and support for those living in the area. 

Bedford, Massachusetts Moms & Dads Group
This page is for Bedford parents to communicate on all things related to kids: from school-related events, weather cancellations and special programs to parents trying to get rid of old kids' toys, clothes etc. Here you can find recommendations for babysitters and summer camps.

 

Do you have a parenting group that you’d like added to this list? Send an email to kate.loweth@tinybeans.com

—Kate Loweth

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One of Peloton’s most popular pieces of workout equipment is under voluntary recall. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CSPC) made the announcement after Peloton received information the products have caused one death and multiple injury reports.

Two different models are involved: the Tread+ with model number T01 and the Tread with model number T02. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CSPC) advises that owners of either model immediately stop using the treadmills and contact Peloton for a full refund.

In the case of the Tread+, adult users, children, pets or objects can be pulled underneath the rear of the treadmill, potentially causing injury or death. A six-year-old child recently tragically died and Peloton has received 72 reports of incidents involving the unit. There are about 125,000 units under recall and the model number TR01 is printed on a black sticker located on the end cap in the front of the treadmill deck.

If you decide to keep your Tread+, move it to a room where children and pets cannot access it. In addition, Peloton is implementing software improvements to the product to automatically lock the Tread+ after each use and prevent unauthorized access by assigning a 4-digit passcode that will be required to unlock the Tread+.

Additionally, some Peloton Tread owners will be affected by another recall. The touchscreen on this treadmill can detach and fall, posing risk of injury to users. There have been reports of minor injuries in Canada and the United Kingdom. There are about 1,050 units under recall in the U.S. and 5,400 in Canada. The model number TR02 is printed on a black sticker located on the end cap in the front of the treadmill deck.

If you decide to keep a Tread under recall, Peloton is offering a free inspection and repair that will secure the touchscreen to the treadmill. The company has stopped sales and distribution of the Tread+ at this time.

—Sarah Shebek

Images courtesy of the Consumer Product Safety Commission

 

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Yeah, Brooklyn has more space, good restaurants and a certain coolio quotient, but as far as we’re concerned, Brooklyn is primo playground territory. From playground complexes in world-class parks and ship-shaped climbing structures, to newly-renovated spots and playspaces with something for everyone, the county of Kings offers some royally good times. Read on for our picks of the best playgrounds in Brooklyn!

For a Play Sugar Factory with Amazing Views (and Tacos): Domino Park

Mimi O'Connor

Brooklyn Hood: North Williamsburg

Where: 15 River St. Entrances along Kent Ave. at South 5th, South 3rd, and Grand Streets

Why it's So Cool: This one is at the very least, the buzz of Brooklyn families, as it’s part of of the recently-opened Domino Park, a five-acre park built on the former site of the Domino Sugar Factory in North Williamsburg. Providing gorgeous views of the East River, Domino Park is home to a one-of-a-kind playground designed by Mark Reigelman that's inspired by the sugar refining process. It’s as fun to play in as it is to look at, with slides short and steep, ladders to scale, web tunnels to traverse, pulleys, platforms and stairs. There’s seating nearby for grownups, and faux turf for relaxing on. Tacos from the park’s food vendor Tacocina are nearby, but expect a line. Take note that wildly-popular pizza place Roberta's just opened a location nearby at 6 Grand Street. 

Restrooms: In the park, a short stroll away (very nice trailers when we visited).

Online: dominopark.com

For a Natural Labyrinth and Sound Play: Pier 3, Brooklyn Bridge Park

Mimi O'Connor

Brooklyn Hood: DUMBO

Where: Pier 3, Brooklyn Bridge Park

Why it's So Cool: While not exactly a playground, Pier 3 is worth checking out with the kids for at least a couple of reasons. First, it's the final pier to be converted to park space in Brooklyn Bridge Park. Second, it's home to numerous interactive pieces, many of which happen to demonstrate scientific principals of sound and light. On one part of the pier, hedges of various shapes and sizes create a natural labyrinth—which will be even more impressive when it fills in a bit more—with surprises around every turn: a walk-in kaleidoscope (extra large mirrored panels) parabolic reflectors, sound tubes, dance chimes, and stone seating from Gunther Beltzig. When you're done, head to to massive open lawn to run around or lounge. 

Restrooms: Not here; the closest one is one pier over on Pier 2. 

Online: brooklynbridgepark.org

For Musically-inspired Play: Harmony Playground

Brooklyn Hood: Park Slope

Where: Prospect Park West between 9th and 11th Streets

Why It’s So Cool: Located next to the Prospect Park bandshell, this enormous playground was designed with music in mind. Little ones will find the harp and trumpet-shaped sprinklers totally refreshing in warmer weather. When they're done, they can clang out a tune on the larger-than-life xylophones. Jungle gym equipment areas featuring slides, ramps and ladders are available for both toddlers and big kids.

Restrooms: Restrooms are available.

Online: prospectpark.org

For Almost Endless Options: Pier 6 Playgrounds, Brooklyn Bridge Park

Mimi O'Connor

Brooklyn Hood: Brooklyn Heights

Where: Atlantic Avenue at Joralemon

Why It’s So Cool: With apologies to Manhattan's playground titans, this is the play spot to beat in NYC. It is, quite-frankly, absurd in its offerings. A giant wooden teepee with slide exit, large spherical climbing structures and more slides built into the landscape are just a few of the highlights. On warm days, the Water Lab is packed with kids of all ages splashing around in the sprinklers and wading pool area. If they prefer to stay dry, your tots can put their building skills to the test in one of the city’s largest sandboxes. Looking for high-flying fun? Check out Swing Valley's ten swing sets and Tarzan rope. Not for nothing: the landscaping, nearby waterside, and yummy food vendors at the park don't hurt either.

Restrooms: Restrooms are available (at the Fornino Pizza building near the Water Lab)

Online: brooklynbridgepark.org

For a Respite and to Pay Respect: Adam Yauch Park Playground

Mimi O'Connor

Brooklyn Hood: Brooklyn Heights

Where: Atlantic Avenue, Columbia Place, State St.

Why It's So Cool: Ok, the actual playground itself is nothing extraordinary, but the namesake of the park, is.  (Still, any kid would be happy to rock out here for a while.) Named for native Brooklynite and Beastie Boy/filmmaker/activist Adam Yauch, AKA M.C.A., this slice of park hugging the BQE was renamed in his honor in 2013, one year after his death. That's cool, but what's even cooler is that this is the park where Yauch himself played as a child, even, apparently, learning to ride a bike here. It's down the street from Megapark Brooklyn Bridge Park, and its old school but ample offerings — basketball courts, climbing structures, a sprinkler — are a nice and calm alternative to the flurry of activity by the water. The park is also home to an impressive variety of tree species such as silver linden, London planes, pin oaks and Norway maples, some charming bear sculptures, a tiny dog run and community garden.

Restrooms: None on site.

Online: nycgovparks.org

To Play Like a Pirate: Main Street Playground, Brooklyn Bridge Park, Pier 1

Julienne Schaer

Brooklyn Hood: DUMBO

Where: Plymouth & Main Street

Why It’s So Cool: Your little pirates will love this nautical-themed playground located in the shadow of the Manhattan Bridge. Climb aboard the ship-shaped playground equipment and peep through portholes, race across bridges, or whiz down the twisty slide. A boat-shaped sandbox provides yet another spot for sunny day diversions.

Restrooms: Restrooms are available nearby at Pier 1.

Online: brooklynbridgepark.org

For a Brand New Play Complex: Betsy Head Park

NYC Parks

After a multi-year, $30 million overhaul, this Brownsville park has everything you could want. Additions include a skate park, a parkour course, an inclusionary basketball course for self-competition, handball and basketball courts, an event space, running track, athletic field, traverse wall and new play structures. Plus new plantings, game tables and renovated bathrooms. The park is also home to the city's second Imagination Playground—a collection of large blue foam building blocks that encourage creativity and collaboration. (The first one, located in Manhattan's Seaport District, is one of our favorites in the city.) 

Brooklyn Hood: Brownsville

Where: Dumont Ave. & Thomas S. Boyland St. 

Why it's So Cool: We're not sure there is any another park with a skate park, parkour course, Imagination Playground, inclusive basketball court, traverse wall, etc. etc. etc. in the city. Plus: there's a huge pool in the summer. 

Restrooms: Yes. 

Online: nycgovparks.org

 

 

For All Kids Big and Small: Vanderbilt St. Playground, Prospect Park

Brooklyn Hood: Windsor Terrace

Where: Prospect Park Southwest and Vanderbilt Street

Why It’s So Cool: Parents of toddlers will love the gated area designed for their little ones, complete with a small slide, steering wheels and noise-making equipment. Older kids can tackle the large spherical rope climbing structure, or test their balance on the dizzying spinning plates. And after an afternoon of climbing, spinning and jumping, you can cool off with a cone at Uncle Louis G’s across the street.

Restrooms: There are no restrooms.

Online: prospectpark.org

For Little Naturalists: Donald and Barbara Zucker Natural Exploration Area 

Julie Seguss

Brooklyn hood: Prospect Lefferts Gardens 

Where: Northeast section of of Prospect Park

Why It's So Cool: When life throws an unexpected hurricane at you, you make the best of it. And that's exactly what Prospect Park did with the Zucker Natural Exploration Area, which uses natural materials like trees that were damaged by Hurricane Sandy in 2012. The result is a very natural and unstructured playground for kids of all ages, allowing children to closely interact with nature.

Restrooms: None on site

Online: prospectpark.org

For a Shady Spot for Tots in BBP: Pier 1 Playground

Mimi O'Connor

Brooklyn Hood: DUMBO

Where: Pier 1, Brooklyn Bridge Park, near ferry and water taxi docks.

Why It’s So Cool: Yet another playground in Brooklyn Bridge Park, the Pier 1 play space is notable for a couple of reasons. While we love the playgrounds at BBP, shade can be sparse in the relatively new park, where the vegetation is still growing in. This playground, however, is an exception, and is mercifully surrounded by greenery. (It's sort of tucked away and feels like a hidden sanctuary.) The playground is also a fantastic space for the beginner (at life) set; babies and toddlers can explore low-lying turtles, a colorful mini house and climbing structure, and enjoy some swing time.

Restrooms: None on site, although nearby

Online: brooklynbridgepark.org

For An Escape Under a Train Line: St. Mary's Playground

Mimi O'Connor

Brooklyn Neighborhood: Carroll Gardens/Gowanus

Where: 422 Smith Street between Nelson and Huntington

Why it's so Cool: It sounds counter-intuitive, but this playground, located beneath the F/G train overpass, is a pleasant place to spend some time. It's brand new (it opened in the spring of 2018 after an investment of $1.35 million) and features ADA accessible playground equipment for kids of all ages, lots of room to roam, a safety surface underfoot, and gentle spray showers that are activated at the touch of a button. Plus, seating and shade. 

Restrooms: none on site; head to Court Street, or further down Smith for options at restaurants and cafes

Online: nycgovparks.org

To Discover New Territory: North Side Playground, Ft. Greene Park

Jim Henderson 

Brooklyn Hood: Fort Greene

Where: Myrtle Avenue and St. Edwards Place

Why It’s So Cool: Also affectionately known as New Fort Greene Park, this playground can be a nice alternative to the often-crowded play area on the other side of the park. The main attraction is a huge, fort-shaped structure, complete with slides, ramps, monkey bars and a couple of treehouse-like hangouts. A separate toddler area is available for the smaller set, complete with baby swings and pint-sized climbing equipment. Take a break from playing to check out the pillars surrounding the playground to learn the official state animal of each of the thirteen original colonies. (Spoiler alert: New York's is not a pigeon, it’s a beaver.)

Restrooms: Restrooms are available

Online: nycgovparks.org/parks/fort-greene-park

Less is More: Imagination Playground, Prospect Park

Brooklyn Hood: Prospect Lefferts Gardens

Where: Ocean Avenue and Parkside Avenue

Why It’s So Cool: This playground has minimal equipment, but that’s exactly what makes it so cool. As the name implies, the playground is designed to encourage kids to use their imaginations from the moment they are greeted by the giant, bronze dragon-shaped sprinkler. Peek inside one of the animal-shaped cutouts, or use the circular stage to put on a show. If all of that imagining leaves them tuckered out,  the “Peter and Willie” sculpture, which was inspired by characters in Ezra Jack Keats’ beloved children’s books, is a great place to relax.

Restrooms: No restrooms in this playground, but you can find them nearby at LeFrak Center or Lincoln Road Playground.

Online: prospectpark.org

For a Massive Playscape on Historic Grounds: J.J. Byrne Playground

Mimi O'Connor

Brooklyn Hood: Park Slope

Where: 5th Avenue between Third and Fourth Streets

Why It’s So Cool: After a major makeover in 2012, this Park Slope gem is now loaded with activities for kids of all ages and tons of room to roam. (It's the site of the Battle of Brooklyn on August 27, 1776, under the leadership of General Washington.) The littlest kiddos will love the colorful farm animal cutouts, interactive panels and scaled-down slides. Older kids can test their balance and climbing skills on a giant, caterpillar-shaped structure. On warm days, kids flock to the sprinkler area, which is complete with water cannons. If all of those features leave your kids wanting more, ongoing public garden projects can be found on the west end of the park near the Old Stone House, and large athletic fields are beyond that for kicking or throwing a ball around.

Restrooms: Restrooms are available in the Old Stone House.

Online: nycgovparks.org

To Play Like A Viking: Leif Ericson Park Playground

photo: NYC Parks

Brooklyn Hood: Bay Ridge

Where: Shore Road between 3rd and 4th Avenues

Why It’s So Cool: Named for Viking Leif Ericson, one of the first Europeans to set foot on North American soil, it’s fitting that the equipment at this playground has a Viking theme. Climb the oar ladders and run across the wooden planks, or run through the flower-shaped sprinklers in the water play area.  While the park tends to get crowded, it still has a true neighborhood feel.

Restrooms: Restrooms are available.

Online: nycgovparks.org/parks

— Mimi O’Connor

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NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED.

HOW TO ENTER: The Contest (“Contest”) will run from 3/22/2021 at 12:00 a.m. PST to 3/31/2021 at 11:59 p.m. PST and will run on the Red Tricycle website. Any entries received after the contest has closed will not be included in the Contest. In order to enter the contest, participants are required to do the following:

  • Submit a short description of a mom who is creating a better story for themselves, their family or their community.
  • Submit their email address and the email address of the mom they’re submitting

Only online entries will be eligible. No print submissions will be accepted for entry into this Contest. Any use of automated or programmed methods of effecting entry is prohibited.

ELIGIBILITY: Open to legal residents of the fifty (50) United States and District of Columbia who are 18 years of age or older at time of entry. Employees or Sponsor, their affiliates, subsidiaries, advertising and promotion agencies and their immediate family members and/or those living in the same household of each are not eligible to win the prize package.

SPONSOR: This Contest is sponsored by Once Upon a Farm (“Sponsor”). Sponsor reserves the right to cancel the Contest at any time and substitute another promotion in its place. The Sponsor is deemed to be the party providing the prize package for this Contest. The Sponsor is responsible for prize fulfillment within 30 days of the winner providing requested mailing information. If winner does not receive prize within 45 days, the winner is to email Red Tricycle for follow up (kenzie@tinybeans.go-vip.net). The winner forgoes any prizes after 180 days without follow up.

WINNERS SELECTION: Five winners will be selected within 72 hours after the close of the Contest period from among all eligible entries received during the Contest.

Winners will be determined by Red Tricycle and Sponsor. Entries for winners will be judged on the following criteria:

(50%) Quality of Submission — We’re looking for moms who have made big strides in bettering themselves, their families or their organization

(50%) Adherence to Theme – Remember, this is all about starting a better story.

Weekly winners will be selected from submissions received between the following dates: March 22, 20201 to March 31, 2021.

Winners will have 48 hours to claim their prize or a new winner will be selected. A list of winners can be requested at any time by contacting kenzie@tinybeans.go-vip.net. Red Tricycle is not responsible for electronic transmission errors resulting in omission, interruption, deletion, defect, delay in operations or transmission or alterations of entry materials, or for technical, network, telephone equipment, electronic, computer, hardware or software malfunctions or limitations of any kind, or inaccurate transmissions of or failure to receive winner’s emailed information on account of technical problems or traffic congestion on the Internet, email being inadvertently flagged as junk or other email form, or at any website or any combination thereof. Every reasonable attempt will be exhausted prior to prize forfeiture and a new winner being selected, including, but not limited to review of all sub-folders and accounts where emails may inadvertently be directed.

PRIZES/APPROXIMATE RETAIL VALUE: Prize is valued as follows: FIVE (5) PRIZES: One (1) one-year customizable subscription to Once Upon a Farm, valued at $775, and one (1) $100 Visa gift card. Prize winners will be required to submit an IRS W9 form. 

GENERAL: Subject to all federal, state and local laws/regulations. Neither Red Tricycle nor their affiliates will have any liability whatsoever for any injuries, losses or damages of any kind caused by any prize or resulting from acceptance, possession, use and/or misuse of any prize or participation in these promotions. By participating in this promotion, entrants agree to be bound by the Official Rules and the decisions of Red Tricycle, which are final and binding in all respects. Red Tricycle is not responsible for any typographical or other error in the printing of the offer or in administration of the promotion.

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By submitting a Contest Entry, Contest Entrant warrants and represents that: (a) Contest Entry does not infringe upon the copyrights, trademarks, rights of privacy, publicity or other intellectual property or other legal or moral rights of any person or entity; (b) Contest Entrant owns all rights to the Contest Entry, including without limitation, copyrights, and has received prior written permission from a third party if any Submission was photographed or videoed by someone other than the Contest Entrant him/herself; and (c) Contest Entrant will indemnify and hold harmless the Sponsor, Administrator and related entities, agents and assigns from any claims and damages (including reasonable attorneys’ fees) arising from or relating to the breach or alleged breach of your representations and warranties herein, the Contest Entry, or Contest Entrant’s conduct in creating the Contest Entry, the acceptance or use of any prize or otherwise in connection with this Contest.

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AMENDMENT: Any and all rules and regulations stated within, may be amended for a specific Contest to be in compliance with the rules and regulations of a specific Sponsor. Any amendment of rules and regulations will be stated in the Contest post.

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Jelly bean lovers and food allergy-sufferers can unite! See our list of 14 allergy-friendly jelly beans that you can pop into your mouth without the fear of causing an adverse reaction. 

VERIFIED BRANDS

1. YumEarth
Product: Easter Sour Beans
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Sesame, Mustard, Gluten
Contains: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: Peanut, Tree Nut, Egg, Shellfish
Allergen Statement

2. Vermont Nut Free Chocolates
Product: Easter Jelly Beans Bag
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Sesame, Mustard
Contains: No Top 8
Precautionary label: Packaged on shared dairy and soy equipment
Facility Dedicated Free From: Peanut, Tree Nut
Allergen Statement

DEDICATED FACILITIES

3. Surf Sweets
Product: Organic Jelly Beans
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Gluten
Contains: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: Top 8, Sesame, Sulphites
Allergen Statement

4. See’s Candies
Product: Jelly Bird Eggs
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Gluten
Contains: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: Peanut, Tree Nut, Gluten
Allergen Statement

5. Jelly Belly
Product: Jelly Beans
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Peanut, Egg, Milk, Fish, Shellfish, Wheat, Gluten
Contains: Coconut, Soy
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: Peanut
Allergen Statement

6. Dare Candy Co.
Product: Real Hoppy Easter Jelly Beans
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Gluten
Contains: No Top 8
Precautionary label: May contain milk
Facility Dedicated Free From: Peanut
Allergen Statement

NON-DEDICATED FACILITIES

7. Gimbal’s
Product: Gourmet Jelly Beans
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Gluten
Contains: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: None stated

8. Jolly Rancher
Product: Easter Jelly Beans
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8
Contains: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: None stated
Allergen Statement

9. Starburst
Product: Original Jellybeans
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8
Contains: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: None stated

10. Sour Patch
Product: Watermelon Easter Jelly Beans
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8
Contains: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: None stated
Allergen Statement

11. Swedish Fish
Product: Jelly Beans
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8
Contains: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: None stated
Allergen Statement

12. Just Born
Product: Original Fruit Flavored Jelly Beans
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Gluten
Contains: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: None stated
Allergen Statement

13. Welch’s
Product: Jelly Bean Bag
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8
Contains: No Top 8
Precautionary label: Manufactured in a facility that processes peanuts, milk, soy and wheat.
Facility Dedicated Free From: None stated
Allergen Statement

14. Warheads
Product: Sour Jelly Beans
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8
Contains: No Top 8
Precautionary label: Manufactured on equipment that processes peanuts, milk, egg, soy and wheat.
Facility Dedicated Free From: None stated
Allergen Statement

 

This post originally appeared on Spokin.

Spokin is a modern platform and app connecting people managing food allergies to resources including food, restaurants, hotels and more. Users have personalized experiences based on allergies & location. With 55,000+ reviews across 79 countries, Spokin helps the allergy community share and connect. The Spokin iOS app is free on iTunes.

Are you an amusement park enthusiast to the max? If you’re a carousel connoisseur or rave about roller coasters to no end, Clementon Park in New Jersey has a deal you’ll want to learn more about.

The park, which was founded in 1907, is for sale—and now you can live out your daydreams and become its sole owner!

photo courtesy of PRNewswire/CRG

So how does one go about buying an entire amusement park? Clementon Park in Clementon, New Jersey will hit the auction block on Mar. 23. Capitol Recovery Group (CRG), a global private equity firm, is auctioning the park as a whole or split into individual parts. This means you can score an entire amusement park with everything you need included or just buy the land, amusement equipment, rides, buildings, or liquor license.

CRG President Bill Firestone said, in a press release, “We are actively seeking a buyer for this iconic park located outside of Philadelphia and expect significant interest in the auction.” Firestone added, “The property includes a 25-acre lake, dam, amusement rides, a water park and a full liquor license.”

Way back in 1907 Clementon was founded by Theodore Gibbs and his sons as a “trolley park.” Located at the end of a trolley line, the park was initially built to encourage weekend ridership. Clementon was family owned until 2011. The park closed its doors in 2019.

If you’re ready to turn your dreams into a reality—bidders can register for the auction on CRG’s website here.

—Erica Loop

 

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While FOMO may seem like it’s a thing of the past, FOAMO is definitely something you’ll want in your family’s future.

You don’t need to rent special equipment or pay a company to provide entertainment for a fun-filled day. Whether your kiddos need a break from cyber schooling, have a special birthday in the near-future, or just want to get outside and play, Little Tikes has a soapy solution. FOAMO may sound like the latest social media acronym, but it’s actually the name of Little Tikes’ new at-home foam machine.

foam party

All you need to do is add water and like magic—you’ll have mounds of cloud-like foam in your yard. When the foam party is done, just pack FOAMO up and store it for your next day of family fun.

Little Tikes FOAMO is made for children ages two and up (with plenty of adult supervision of course) and retails for $179.99. FOAMO comes with a foam machine, foam machine mount, storage container, and .75 gallons of concentrated FOAMO solution. After it’s mixed with water, the solution should last for a full hour to two-hour party. If you want to extend the foamy fun or throw another bubbly bash, you can pick up a refill.

Find Little Tikes FOAMO online and in stores at Amazon, Target and Walmart next week!

—Erica Loop

Photos courtesy of Little Tikes

 

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Who doesn’t love to take a chance now and again and dream of a lottery win? A ticket in hand is an affordable thrill that can potentially pay off big, at least for some lucky winner. But there are even better reasons to play Oregon Lottery games. Over half of Oregon Lottery proceeds go to support Oregon’s public schools. That dollar or two you put in fate’s hands serves a great purpose—helping local teachers and students achieve their very best.

A Commitment to Education

Oregonians have demonstrated time and again their commitment to the educational well-being of Oregon’s students. That’s why in 1995, voters passed a constitutional amendment that requires a portion of Oregon Lottery proceeds go to public education, benefitting students from kindergarten through college. Because of Lottery funding, schools across the state have more resources to pay for much-needed textbooks, computers, classroom equipment and education-related services.

Oregon's Teacher of the Year

As part of its support for public education, the Oregon Lottery also sponsors Oregon’s Teacher of the Year program. This year’s recipient, Nicole Butler-Hooton, is an inspiring second-grade teacher at Irving Elementary School in Eugene. Her win comes with a $5,000 award for her and a matching $5,000 for Irving Elementary. The title will give Nicole the opportunity to share her passion, equity-driven and inclusive teaching practices, on a state and national level. As the first Native American to win the Oregon Teacher of the Year title, Nicole’s win is inspiring to students and the community alike!

 

Do good things, with the Oregon Lottery!

 

Learn more about how your lottery dollars help support education in Oregon.

 

 

—Jamie Aderski

With many restaurants closed and people still taking careful precautions during the coronavirus pandemic, Valentine’s Day dinner is going to look different. But by now, we’re used to it and this creative option from Cozymeal makes staying in fun.

Purveyor of online cooking classes, Cozymeal is offering some limited-time Valentine’s Day classes that will up your Valentine’s Day, Galentine’s Day, or virtual date night game. The platform has the largest collection of virtual experiences that include cooking, mixology, wine tastings and more, that are all hosted by world-class culinary professionals, starting at $29.

photo: Courtesy of Cozymeal

Looking for something more on the fun side? You’ll want to check out Cozymeal’s pop-culture inspired classes. You can recreate favorite dishes from films and shows that include The Crown, Sex & The City, The Mandalorian (and those galactic macarons pictured above!), Harry Potter, Game of Thrones and more.

Cozymeal also offers more traditional takes on Valentine’s Day like Elegant Date Night Dinner, Date Night at the Italian Opera, Galentine’s Day PJ Brunch, Dark Chocolate Workshop and Classic Steakhouse Dinner. You can also take it to the next level and snag a fine dining culinary experience hosted by a private chef!

Each online offering shares the ingredients and kitchen equipment you’ll need so you’ll be prepared for the big day. Not only that, you can add ingredients directly from Cozymeal to your virtual shopping list and submit to your favorite grocery delivery service. Dinner is served!

To check out all the experiences available, head to cozymeal.com.

––Karly Wood

 

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