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This Subscription Toothbrush Service Wants to Make Brushing a Breeze for Kids

by Shahrzad Warkentin

An electric toothbrush can be a great tool to maintaining healthy teeth, but not if your brush is too old. Toothbrush maker quip disrupted the industry by introducing a new subscription service and now quip’s new electric toothbrush for kids is doing the same for those pint-sized pearly whites.

So what’s quip all about? It’s subscription service that provides customers with new brush heads and toothpaste for their electric toothbrushes on a regular basis—because as experts will tell you, you’re meant to swap out that brush every three months to make sure you’re getting your teeth clean.

With quip’s newest product offering for kids, this is the first American Dental Association-accepted kids electric toothbrush with a refill plan. While similar to the adult model, quip for kids has a smaller brush head, an added non-slip plastic grip and more color options from which to choose.

“We spent a year working with Kids and Pediatric dentists to work out what would make up the ideal kids brush. The dentists’ most common request was to create a brush that replicated the fundamental habit and attitude changing effect our adult brushes have had: encouraging and guiding an effective two minute, twice daily brushing routine,” said Simon Enever, CEO and Co-Founder of quip. “The most impactful finding during research was that kids would beam with pride when they were given a ‘grown-up’ electric brush, and parents were relieved to see this lasting excitement, rather than the short lived buzz a typical flashy kids brush usually had.”

You can get started with quip for kids for $25 for a brush head starter set with a flavored toothpaste subscription ($10 every three months) or $30 with a starter set and brush head subscription ($5 every three months). You can order your set here.

—Shahrzad Warkentin

All photos: Courtesy of quip

 

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Target’s Perfectly Preppy vineyard vines Collab Has Us Dreaming of Summer

by Erica Loop

Get your REDcard out: the new vineyard vines Target collab is coming soon—and you won’t want to miss any of the over 300 items in this exclusive new collection.

The popular lifestyle brand by brothers Shep and Ian Murray is a fashion fave for many reasons. Between the now-iconic smiling pink whale logo or the brand’s the classically relaxed style of Martha’s Vineyard, shoppers have flocked to vineyard vines in droves. Starting May 18 you can get all kinds of limited-edition vineyard vines apparel, home and outdoor goods you won’t find anywhere else.

The new collab features apparel, accessories, swim, pet, home and outdoor goods. According to Mark Tritton, executive vice president and chief merchandising officer at Target, “Vineyard vines is a brand that our guests know and love, and one that exemplifies our shared sense of optimism and joy through their use of bold colors and prints.” Prices range from $2 to $120, with most items under $35.

What else can you expect from vineyard vines at Target? Tritton also added, “We worked closely with the vineyard vines team to create a collection of well-designed, affordable items that are meant to bring people together, whether it’s for a shared meal with friends or a family trip to the beach. Launching just as summer kicks off, this is the perfect collection to help our guests create lasting memories with family and friends, all season long.”

Shop the vineyard vines for Target collection in stores and on Target.com from May 18 through Jul. 13.

—Erica Loop

Featured photo: vineyard vines via Instagram

 

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The “Carmen Effect” Explains Why Your Kids Will Love Netflix’s New Carmen Sandiego

by Shahrzad Warkentin

If you’re old enough to remember what a floppy disk is, then chances are you know all the words to “Where In the World Is Carmen Sandiego?” That catchy tune and the incredible show it introduced left a lasting impression on a generation of young fans that can only be described as the “Carmen Effect.” What is the “Carmen Effect,” you might ask? A new generation of kids is about to find out.

Netflix reboots the Carmen Sandiego of our childhoods with a brand new series on Jan. 18. In preparation for the premiere, Netflix did some research and found that, besides her iconic red hat and trench coat, Carmen Sandiego left a deep impact on Millennials who grew up discovering new countries and cultures while they travelled the globe alongside the elusive thief. And now these Millennials have kids of their own.

Looking at five years worth of Twitter mentions of Carmen Sandiego, Netflix compiled data into four distinct categories that have impacted fans in what they are calling the “Carmen Effect.” Of the 300,000 plus tweets analyzed, the majority reflected Carmen’s Signature Style (60 percent of tweets), which has inspired everything from high-fashion runways to Halloween costumes. Passport Goals (20 percent) represented another big chunk of Carmen related tweets, with many fans attributing their love of travel to their early days jetting off with Carmen on television.

You can also thank Carmen for those random Trivial Pursuit-style grains of knowledge you have stored in your brain. As a childhood icon, she not only taught kids her Sandiego Smarts (16 percent), she was also a Trailblazer (7 percent) and a role model.

photo: Netflix

Now a whole new generation will get a chance to be introduced to the Carmen Effect as they join along in new international adventures that are sure to leave them with a little wanderlust and a stylish fashion sense of their own.

“I think parents are going to want their kids to watch the new Carmen Sandiego because it’s not only educational with the geography facts and other cultures, but it also portrays a strong, independent, loving educated woman,” said Gina Rodriguez, voice of Carmen Sandiego. “She’s a multi-dimensional character. She feels and loves just as much as she is strong and rebellious. To me, she’s a beautiful character to portray to our youth today.”

https://twitter.com/Jimmy_Ness/status/624644501492121600

You and your kids can explore and learn more about the Carmen Effect on the website here. The first season of Carmen Sandiego drops on Netflix on Jan. 18.

—Shahrzad Warkentin

Featured photo: Netflix

 

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Carter’s Launches a New Line of Clothes for Big Kids

by Amber Guetebier

From their striped onesies to those little pants with the monkey on the butt, chances are you wrapped your little baby up in an outfit or two from Carters (or one of their other brands, including OshKosh B’gosh and Skip Hop). And even if you saved your favorite set of footie PJs (he was so small!) in the memory box, once they get past toddlerhood you have to start shopping elsewhere for quality, affordable clothes. Except you don’t. On May 1, 2018, your favorite baby clothing line launched Carter’s KIDS, clothing for kids ages 4 to 14! Yes, you read that right. Here’s a sneakpeek at some of our favorite new items.

The Idea Behind It

Inspired by feedback kids’ unique style statements and parents looking to grow with a brand they’ve loved since their kids were babies, the Carter’s team designed a line of 700 kid-right styles for the new collection. From athleisure and mix + match outfits that coordinate back to baby and toddler looks for family photos, to food humor, animal prints, positive messaging, and more, the designs give older kids a variety of on-trend styles with the quality and value parents expect!

 

Even More News

On May 5 Carters is also debuting a new line of baby basics! So stay tuned for even more adorable items for your wee ones. Little Baby Basics is all about baby soft knits, aww-inspiring styles, and easy outfit sets with lasting quality for a great value. The new collection features new styles and functional features like reinforced snaps, thoughtful designs, and durable detailing to provide comfortable and long-lasting pieces for baby’s first wardrobe. From the original bodysuit, easy outfit sets, to the character sets perfect for baby showers, Carter’s Little Baby Basics collection provides the foundation for baby’s first wardrobe.

 

Find out more and start shopping at: carters.com  

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5 Questions Parents Should Consider When Planning a Family Beach Vacation

By Richard Remick

If you haven’t planned for a family beach vacation before, or it has been a while, you might have some questions as to how to get started. Here are the top five questions that parents have when taking their family on a beach vacation.

When should I start planning?

It is important to start planning for your beach vacation as far in advance as possible. The longer you have to plan for the budget, the activities, and everything else that goes into a beach vacation, the smoother the trip will go. It also gives you time to plan for anything that might come up unexpectedly.

It is always a good idea to have a Plan B, especially when planning a vacation with the kids. Plus, with less stress right before you leave, you won’t be as flustered when you actually get there so you can enjoy your time at the beach.

How do I find the right beach?

When planning a vacation with the whole family, it is best to try to find a destination that is closer to home. This way, if something comes up, it isn’t as much of a hassle to turn around and come back home.

Start by looking up beaches that are not too far from home. You can look up what amenities they have as well as what accommodations are nearby. Plus, with a short drive, the kids won’t get antsy in the car which is less stress on you.

What are some of the beach essentials?

It is important to have sun screen, especially with the kids. Make sure the sun screen has a high SPF rating, is made for sensitive skin, and is water resistant so you don’t have to apply it as often. Having beach towels, some kind of shade, as well as bags that don’t accumulate sand is very important. Bringing snacks and beverages is also a good idea when having kids at the beach.

Do we need to plan for safety?

Before you leave for your vacation, go over the safety rules with everyone. Everyone should know how to get themselves out of an undertow, not to go too far out, to listen and look for lifeguards, etc.

Parents should make sure they always have one on watch and that all kids are visible at all times. Kids should be escorted to bathrooms or snack bars.

What kind of beach activities are there?

There are a ton of activities to participate in at the beach and not just the basic ones that come to mind like beach volleyball, surfing and building sand castles, although you are free to do those as well if you’d like.

If you are looking for a list of activities to plan for when you get to the beach with the family, check out this list of family beach activities and make sure you pack what you need to keep everyone busy.

A family beach vacation is the perfect way to make lasting memories with the kids. Make sure you plan everything from the sun screen to the entertainment, have the perfect accommodations and take a lot of pictures. Who knows, the family beach vacation might just become a summertime tradition.

Featured Photo Courtesy: jill111 via Pixabay

Im an active Dad who like to take his son into the great outsoors to learn and connect with nature.

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This Adult Summer Camp Is Just for Moms

by Shahrzad Warkentin

photo: Camp Mom

Why should the kids be the only ones to get all the fun of s’mores, campfires and crafts? Camp Mom takes adult summer camps to a whole new level with an energizing retreat made just for moms.

From traditional camp activities, like arts and crafts and zip lining, to workshops on parenting and stress management, Camp Mom promises to “put your happiness back at the top of your to-do list.” Learn techniques for reducing stress, make new connections that can lead to lasting mom friendships and most importantly have some good old-fashioned fun.

The day camp is a one-day retreat, perfect if the realities of mom life won’t let you get away for long. The day involves parenting workshops, camp games, dance classes, outdoor activities, like trapeze and trampolining, crafts and two meals.

Camp Mom will be held on July 29, 2017 from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. at Driftwood Day Camp in Melville, New York. Tickets are $175 and include a take home swag bag, and a sweet camp t-shirt.

Have you ever attended an adult summer camp? Share your experience in the comments below.

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Cheers! Couples Who Drink Together Stay Together, Study Finds

by Red Tricycle

Photo: Nate Beach-Westmoreland via Flickr

So is alcohol the secret to a long-lasting relationship? According to The Journals of Gerontology Series B: Psychological Series, yes! 2,767 couples who had been married for an average of 33 years were interviewed. It found that couples over 50 had a significantly better relationship if they both drank alcohol, or both abstained, with women noticing the biggest effect on their relationships.

One of the study’s authors, Dr Kira Birditt, told Reuters:  “We’re not sure why this is happening, but it could be that couples that do more leisure time activities together have better marital quality.”

Does this change your weekend plans (wink, wink)? Let us know in the comments below!

H/T: Glamour

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Plastic-Free Feeding: Innovative Bottles, Sippy Cups & Tableware

by Kelley Gardiner

Want to reduce the plastic you use for Baby’s feeding so you don’t have to worry about BPA, phthalates and other chemicals? From glass bottles that promise not to break to stainless steel sippy cups and silicone storage, cutting back is doable. Here are some of our favorite alternatives to plastic bottles, cups, plates, and snack storage for babies on the go.

100% Silicone Bottle

There's a lot to like with these Comomoto baby bottles: Many breastfeeding babies take to the wider base, which is more like the real thing. The neck is wide enough to fit your hand through, so no narrow brushes are needed. It's see-through for easy measuring, and long-lasting too, with the right care.

Available at comotomobaby.com, $23.45.

What’s your favorite plastic alternative bottle, cup, plate or container for baby? Let us know in the Comments!

—Kelley Gardiner

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En Pointe: 7 Spins on a Seasonal Tradition

by Phebe Wahl

The Nutcracker is a seasonal spectacular not to be missed. But which show to see? Read on for seven different twists on this traditional tale sure to fill your wee one with sugarplum visions and create a lasting holiday memory.

Fox Theatre
Best for:  Families looking for a classic retelling
What’s the scoop:  The Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker at the fabulous Fox Theatre is a holiday staple.  This beautiful classic will transport your little ones into a delightful holiday world.  If you are looking to make a lasting memory with your family, don’t look further than this classic production.  See it:  Ticket prices range from $15-89.  Performances are held December 11-28 at the Fox Theatre, 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta 30308.  Buy tickets here.

Gwinnett Theatre
Best for:  Traditionalists
What’s the scoop:  The Gwinnett Ballet Theatre is celebrating its 33rd performance of the Nutcracker in Atlanta.  This company focuses on the traditional retelling of this classic story.  Half of the performances will be set to recorded music, and the other half will be performed with a live orchestra.
See it:  Tickets range from $18-26.  Performances are held December 5-21 at the Gwinnett Performing Arts Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth 30096.  Reserve your tickets here.

Cobb Civic Center
Best for:  Ballet Purists
What’s the scoop:  The Georgia Ballet Company brings their lavish and classical presentation of the Nutcracker back to Atlanta with help from some superstar friends.  Joining this exquisite production are Sarah Lane and Luis Ribagorda from the movie, Black Swan, as well as from the American Ballet Theatre in New York.
See it:  Tickets range from $15-100.  Event performances are held December 5-7 at the Cobb Civic Center, 548 South Marietta Pkwy SE, Marietta, 30060.  Reserve your tickets here.

The Urban Nutcracker
Best for:  Families looking for a cultural spin
What’s the scoop:  The Urban Nutcracker kicks off the first Nutcracker performance of the holiday season.   Be transformed to Atlanta’s own Sweet Auburn Avenue and experience a different spin on the Nutcracker classic in the form of reggae ragdolls, sultry Arabian dancers, bubbly Coca Cola Pas de Six, Mother Spice and her tumbling spice drops and more.
See it:  Ticket prices range from $39 to $52.  Performances are held November 20-23 at Georgia Tech’s Ferst Center for the Arts, 349 Ferst Dr, Atlanta, GA 30332.  Order tickets here or call 404-894-9601.

Kids in Step at the Fox Theatre
Best for:  The younger set in big groups from school.
What’s the scoop:  Through the Atlanta Ballet Kids In Step program, younger ones can enjoy the magic of the Nutcracker in a shortened version.  After experiencing an abbreviated performance, they are treated to a special behind-the-scenes look at the magic of backstage.  Teachers will also receive educational materials prior to the performance.
See it:  Tickets are $10.  Performances are held December 11 & 17 at 11 am at the Fox Theatre, 660 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, 30308.  Reserve your tickets here.

The Nutcracker Tea
Best for:  Families who want an up close experience.
What’s the scoop:  The Nutcracker dances to life in the way of a tea party for young ones.  The Atlanta Ballet dancers perform and tell a story, as little ones will sip on traditional teas and cocoa and munch on finger sandwiches, scones and bite-size desserts.  Cameras are permitted to capture the excitement of the dancing sugar plum fairies.  For an even sweeter ending, little ones will decorate holiday cookies.
See it:  Tickets are $60 for adults, $50 for children ages 3-12, and complimentary for children under 3.  Performances are held December 7, 14, & 21, 2:30 to 5 pm at the Four Seasons Park 75 Restaurant.  Call (404) 253-3840 for reservations.

The Nutcracker at the American Girl
Best for:  Younger girls, ages eight and up
What’s the scoop:  American Girl of the year, Isabelle, is an aspiring ballet dancer.  Your own little aspiring ballerinas will start the day with brunch and Isabelle-themed crafts at the American Girl store.  After, the ballerinas will board a bus for the Fox Theatre for a backstage tour, cookies and milk, and a performance of Clara and the Nutcracker.  Your ticket includes round-trip bus transportation and an Isabelle poster.
See it:  Tickets are $85.  Event and performance are held on December 14 at 9:30 am at the North Point Mall American Girl Store, 1202 North Point Circle, Alpharetta 30022.  Reservations are required.  Call 1-877-247-5223.

Will you be seeing the Nutcracker this year?  How will you share this classic with your little ones?  Share your thoughts in the comments below.

—Allyson Chapman

Photos courtesy of Charlie McCullers and The Atlanta Ballet, Gwinnett Ballet Theater, The Georgia Ballet, and Urban Nutcracker via Facebook

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Little Things, Big Rewards

by Erin Lem

We all know that sometimes it’s the little things that bring everyday health and happiness to our families.  So some of our mom friends who work at Blue Shield of California gave us their simple, yet thoughtful ideas to finding fun in their daily lives.

Ideas for You
Start a Book Club:  A story is always better when you have someone to share it with.  “Start a book club with moms who have similar interests.  Reading keeps your mind sharp and the club builds relationships” ~Shira

Girls Night!  Letting your hair down with your galpals every once and awhile is a surefire way to stay sane.  “Take some girls’ nights out, business trips, or even weekends away. The kids learn to rely on themselves and their other parent, while you get some downtime.” ~Marcia

Ideas for your Kids
Ritual of Reading:  Enrich their little minds and your family bond.  “Read to your kids. I’ve made it a morning ritual with my toddler.  It’s a chance to bond and develop at the same time.” ~Melisa

What’s that Vegetable? Shared time in the kitchen form lasting memories.  “I try to involve my kids in the grocery shopping and cooking process.  It’s a good chance to teach them a few things without it being a lecture and way more interactive and fun! ” ~Kathy 

Ideas for Your Family
Family Meal Time:  The statistics are clear – kids who dine with the folks are healthier, happier and better students.  Time to bring the tradition back.  “Sit down and eat dinner together.” ~Andria

Fresh Air:  Getting outdoors rejuvenates the spirit and fuels the imagination.  “Do something fun and physical -try out something like a local hike or rent paddle boats.  Schedule regular activities to bond and be active together.” ~Kathy

Blue Shield of California is an independent member of the Blue Shield of California.
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