The Peeps brand may have already expanded well past the little yellow chickies but this year, fans of the sugar-coated marshmallow birds are in for a special treat. A gingerbread house-ish Cookie Coop Kit is here to fill all your candy-covered Easter treat dreams.
Your fave Easter candy now has a home. The geniuses behind the sugary goodies recently released a buildable link and lock mini chicken coop to hold the treats. The Peeps Cookie Coop Kit includes everything you need to make this soon-to-be holiday tradition.
This kit is the ideal option for anyone who doesn’t have the time or IG-worthy kitchen skills to create their own cookie coop. Along with Peeps chicks, the kit also comes with pre-mixed icing, assorted candy, pre-baked sugar cookie panels, and cut-out chick figures. Just link and lock the sugar cookies, decorate the coop, and load it up with plenty of Peeps.
Nab a value pack (two coops in one) in stores or online from BJ’s here. BJ’s currently sells the kit for $10.99. Don’t worry if you “accidentally” eat the Peeps that come with the kit before you can add them to the coop. You can always buy more to complete the look and create a cute Easter table centerpiece!
Getting your three-year-old to agree with you can sometimes feel like negotiating with a foreign diplomat who doesn’t speak the same language. Still, there are times when your tots will surprise you with the occasional “yes.” It’s definitely a challenge to figure out how to raise cooperative toddlers, but according to one study, some might be more prone to being agreeable than others.
The study by researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences and the University of Virginia found that certain behaviors in babies could predict whether or not they would grow up to be cooperative toddlers. The study concluded that babies who paid attention to fearful faces in adults were more likely to be altruistic as toddlers and preschoolers, and altruism is considered a key component in cooperative behavior.
The study measured infants’ responses to fear in others at seven months old by tracking eye movement. Babies were exposed to faces that displayed several emotions including fear, happiness and anger. They later looked at the same babies’ altruistic behavior at 14 months. Responding to happy or angry faces was not linked to altruism later, but a response to the fearful faces was.
“From early in development, variability in altruistic helping behavior is linked to our responsiveness to seeing others in distress and brain processes implicated in attentional control. These findings critically advance our understanding of the emergence of altruism in humans by identifying responsiveness to fear in others as an early precursor contributing to variability in prosocial behavior,” said Tobias Grossmann, the lead author of the study and research team leader.
If you find that your baby takes note when you look terrified that you just ran out of coffee or panicked when you accidentally spill that freshly pumped milk, it could be a sign of calmer, more cooperative days ahead.
Let’s face it, this is going to be a very unique cookie-selling year. Many councils across the nation are canceling booth sales due to their local COVID restrictions. Nonetheless, the cookie sales must go on. If your girl is allowed to set up a physical cookie booth and can do so safely, remind her to mask up, practice social distancing, and request her booth visitors to do the same. However, this next cookie season will rely even more on the digital cookie program.
Going digital will empower your girl to find creative ways to reach customers with her cookie business and develop a digital connection with her buyers. After your girl reviews the Girl Scouts’ online safety pledge and guidelines, The Startup Squad has some sure-fire digital cookie strategies below. She’ll level up her digital cookie-selling powers in no time!
Sales
This year, more than ever, girls should focus on their “why” and not their “what.” As much as people love cookies (the what), your girl can attract more orders and larger orders by focusing on her why. Why she’s selling cookies, why she needs help to meet her goal in this most challenging of cookie seasons, why the cookie funds will help her community. Engaging stories drum up sales, so encourage your girl to be a storyteller in her videos and email messages that focus on her why! And when it comes to the what, the cookies, have her describe the cookies in a way that will get people interested and excited to try each product. It’s one thing to explain that she’s selling mint cookies, it’s another to describe them as the chocolatey, minty, melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness that so many know and love. Finally, its easier to get an existing customer to order more boxes than it is to find a new customer. Encourage her to ask her customers if they want to donate a box or two to the needy or military.
Marketing
The digital world can create opportunities for your girl to expand her customer base across the globe starting with her digital cookie page. A catchy name, a unique slogan, and attention-grabbing visuals are just some of the ways your girl can make her online cookie shop standout. Her cookie video is a great opportunity for her to act like her fave entertainer and sing about the cookies or do a dance number. It’s all about having fun! Check out this video from a girl whose creative cookie duet with her dad has been watched over two million times!
To kick off cookie season, your cookie CEO can create her own digital sales event on Facebook Event or Instagram Live. Share her digital cookie link and news about the event on your social media accounts to help bring in a huge audience. Your girl can even reach out to influencers with large networks and ask them to share the link to her page. Speaking of influencers, have your girl guest star during your next work Zoom call so she can pitch your co-workers to help her hit her cookie goals!
Merchandising
Your girl can add a personal touch to her cookie video production by creating a custom colorful display of the cookie boxes and using an eye-catching unique background (or even a virtual one!). Good lighting is also key for your girl’s videos so online viewers can see her cookie business in the best way possible. What’s more, proper lighting allows prospective buyers to better see the cookie boxes as your girl highlights and describes each one. Last but not least, remind your girl to wear her troop uniform with pride in every video!
Customer Service
Whenever your girl sends a virtual or physical thank-you card to her customers, she builds a strong, lasting connection with them. Impressed customers always come back! Your girl can also tailor each thank-you message to fit the people she’s communicating with. For example, she can inform previous buyers about the nut-free or gluten-free cookie types they have yet to buy. Or remind her customers to stock their freezer with boxes to last them until next cookie season. Canva is an easy-to-use and free online graphic design tool that’s great for every type of digital or printed card.
Excited for your girl to build her cookie empire, grow her entrepreneurial confidence, and flex her digital marketing skills? We know we are! And we’re going to share on The Startup Squad’s social media accounts the digital cookie page of one lucky cookie seller. Check out The Startup Squad’s Instagram page for details about how your girl can be The Startup Squad’s preferred digital cookie seller. And download our handy tip sheet to keep these tips and more with her throughout the cookie season. We wish nothing but sweet success for your girl!
I've always built businesses, from a childhood gummy bear business to adult gigs at IMAX and Coupons.com. I founded The Startup Squad to help girls reach their potential and my book series, The Startup Squad, is published by Macmillan. I live in Silicon Valley with my wife and two daughters.
Last year, DiGiorno pumped up pizza fans everywhere with its Super Bowl giveaway. Now, the pizza purveyor is back with a 2021 freebie!
In honor of game day, DiGiorno is giving away free pizza if the Super Bowl score hits 3-14 or 14-3 at any point during the game. So how do you snag the free pizza pie?
photo: Courtesy of Digiorno
If the score hits the magic numbers, DiGiorno will tweet a link where fans can enter for a chance to win a free pizza! Click on the link, then register for the coupon that will help you bring home free pizza.
Make sure you pay attention though––the tweet only stays live while the score is 3-14 or 14-3. Once it changes, you’re out of luck!
Breaking news: the town of Eureka doesn’t have a Bigfoot. The Northern California town just issued a statement to inform visitors and residents that despite news websites distributing photos of a “primate-like” form in the 70-acre public preserve that is Sequoia Park, there is no Sasquatch roaming the forest.
In no small coincidence, the sighting allegedly occurred in the area where a canopy walk is being constructed. The photos supposedly show a Bigfoot-esque being on a platform 50 feet off the ground.
photo: iStock
The structure, part of the city’s Redwood Sky Walk which will open in the spring to connect the forest with the city’s zoo, will link tree platforms and is more than 100 feet high. Miles Slattery, city manager for the City of Eureka has encouraged visitors to “please avoid the area during the final construction phase to reduce the impacts on the park and zoo.”
Despite being a large park, Slattery also states that “none of our staff has reported anything.” The surrounding area of Willow Creek is no stranger to Sasquatch “sightings.” Known as the Bigfoot capital of the world, the term “Bigfoot” was coined there in the ’50s.
Can you believe LEGO NINJAGO is 10 years old? To celebrate the popularity of the masters of Spinjitzu, LEGO is releasing new sets, collaborations and more throughout 2021.
First you can head to the LEGO website and take a journey through the last 10 years of NINJAGO history. LEGO is featuring fan created content including art, LEGO builds and toy photography, in addition to hosting an in-depth exhibition celebrating ten years of NINJAGO fandom.
Throughout this year, LEGO will release 11 Legacy sets, six of which will come with a limited edition collectible golden ninja minifigure. On Feb. 1, a LEGO retail exclusive three-level LEGO NINJAGO City Gardens will launch, which showcases some special moments of the TV series––plus a golden master Wu.
LEGO will also be releasing four sets linked to the TV series in March and another five sets in June, plus three LEGO NINJAGO sets for ages 4+ in March and June. You can already shop four of the Epic Battle sets and four of the Legacy sets that released earlier this month, including:
(71730) LEGO® NINJAGO® Epic Battle set – Kai vs. Skulkin
(71731) LEGO® NINJAGO® Epic Battle set – Zane vs. Nindroid
(71732) LEGO® NINJAGO® Epic Battle set – Jay vs. Serpentine
(71733) LEGO® NINJAGO® Epic Battle set – Cole vs. Ghost Warrior
(71735) LEGO® NINJAGO® Tournament of Elements
(71736) LEGO® NINJAGO® Boulder Blaster
(71737) LEGO® NINJAGO® X-1 Ninja Charger
(71738) LEGO® NINJAGO® Zane’s Titan Mech Battle
LEGO is also pairing up with tons of streetwear and clothing brands for several special anniversary merchandise collections. The first collaboration is LEGO NINJAGO x HYPE, a streetwear collab inspired by “the Prime Empire” from the 2020 LEGO NINJAGO TV series. You can shop the collection at justhype.co.uk.
Head to lego.com to keep up with all the new releases and the celebration of NINJAGO all year long.
Black History Month is in full swing and if you’re looking for resources to help your child learn about Black History you’ll want to bookmark this post. Whether your school Black History curriculum is lacking or you have a kid who just can’t get enough, here is a list of vetted and reliable websites for lessons, activities, reading and videos for Black History Month.
18. Common Sense Media recommends several movies to spark conversations around Black History Month (parental discretion advised).
19. Teachervision offers links to resources for elementary students.
20. Education.com has activity, crafts and recipe suggestions for young students.
21. Education.com also has elementary level printables for coloring and crosswords.
22. Biography has information on famous African-American athletes.
23. The American Library Association recommends books that have won the Coretta Scott King Book award. (These awards are presented each year to notable African American authors and illustrators of children’s books and young adult books that show an appreciation of African-American culture.)
25. WEB Guides has digital materials on a variety of related topics.
26. The government site for African-American History Month has plenty of resources.
27. WEB Guides has digital materials on a variety of related topics.
28. This PBS Learning Media video shares the origin of Black History Month, including key events in history that led to today’s observance in February. PBS Kids also offers a lineup of inspiring books about African-American culture, and this video to share more about why Martin Luther King Jr.’s values and ideas are important to live by each day.
I’m Courtney! A 30-something-year-old travel, food, lifestyle and family blogger for The World In Four Days. In addition to being a jet-setter, I’m also a wound care nurse and mommy to the cutest little eight-year-old on earth.
Be sure to check your hand sanitizer! Shane Erickson, Inc. is voluntarily recalling various lots of its wash-free hand sanitizer due to the potential presence of methanol. Exposure to methanol risks includes nausea, vomiting, headache, blurred vision, permanent blindness, seizures, coma, permanent damage to the nervous system or death.
Recalled products include the following: lot 2020/05/11 and MFG: 2020/05/10 L/N: 20200510-3 of imc Wash-Free Hand Sanitizer 50 ml, 100 ml, 300 ml and Wash Free Hand Sanitizer 300 ml lot 2020/05/11 and Thrifty White Pharmacy Wash-Free Hand Sanitizer 300 ml lot 2020/05/11. Check this link to see more information including UPC codes and product labels.
No adverse effects in regards to this recall have been reported yet. Consumers with questions can contact Shane Erickson, Inc. by phone at 952.252.1254 or email sales@imcsuccess.com Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Central Time Zone.
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.
Disney is celebrating the year of the mouse—Mickey Mouse, that is! Each month the Disney shop on Amazon will unveil new products perfect for fans of the epic mouse himself and this month is no exception.
Even though Disney hasn’t revealed the full year in mouse merch, you can expect a year full of mouse magic. Keep scrolling to see a few picks from each month for the year so far!
April's collectable Mickey Mouse is made of soft velveteen fabric and pays homage to Disneyland's Welcome Gardens. The 16-inch plush features embroidered eyes, commemorative gold and satin foot patch and a certificate of authenticity.
May
Disney Year of the Mouse: Movie Star Mickey
Mickey is taking a trip through his epic career with the limited edition Movie Star-themed plush. Like months past, he will feature deluxe mixed materials, embroidery detail, commemorative gold and satin foot patch and a Certificate of Authenticity.
June
Year of the Mouse: Rainbow Mickey Mouse Plush
June is Pride month and Mickey is getting in on the action! The limited-edition plush is covered in knitted, holographic rainbow fabric and a gold seal of authenticity. He comes in a window box and stands 16 inches tall.
D23 members will get first access to the limited edition Mickey on Mon., Jun. 9 a.m. PST by visiting the D23 website. Be sure you are logged in as a D23 member so you can see the access link.
August
Year of the Mouse: Captain Mickey
August has already set sail and so has Captain Mickey. The nautical-themed plush has as thinking of Steamboat Willie with his striped swimsuit, complete with gold buttons.
D23 members will get first access to the limited edition Mickey on Mon., Aug 10 a.m. PST by visiting the D23 website. Be sure you are logged in as a D23 member so you can see the access link.
October
Year of the Mouse: Mousketeer Plush
The Mickey Mouse Club premiered in October of 1955 and this month's plush is a celebration of the fave show. Mickey's Mousketeer outfit is made of cotton jersey with embroidered buttons, and he stands 16 inches tall.
D23 members will get first access to the limited edition Mickey on Mon., Oct. 5 at 9 a.m. PST by visiting the D23 website. Be sure you are logged in as a D23 member so you can see the access link.
November
Year of the Mouse: Fantasia Plush
1940's Fantasia is a Disney fave and this month's plush is an homage to the classical-themed film. Mickey is covered in constellations, red satin shorts and gold gloves.
D23 members will get first access to the limited edition Mickey on Mon. Nov. 9 at 9 a.m. PST by visiting the D23 website. Be sure you are logged in as a D23 member so you can see the access link.
December
December's plush is all about the holidays! Holiday Spirit Mickey Mouse is the final plush in the Year of the Mouse collection. He's made with flannel fabric with corduroy and Sherpa fabrics.
D23 members will get first access to the limited edition Mickey on Mon. Dec. 7 at 9 a.m. PST by visiting the D23 website. Be sure you are logged in as a D23 member so you can see the access link.
Limited Edition
Limited Edition Disney Kaleidoscope of Color Mickey Mouse Plush
Are you having a difficult time getting your hands on the Year of the Mouse merch? You could be in luck when it comes to the Special Edition Kaleidoscope of Color Mickey Mouse Plush that celebrates “Walt Disney’s Wonderful World of Color.” The colorful plush is available on Amazon, comes with a Certificate of Authenticity and in a window box with special packaging.
Limited Edition Disney Fantasy in the Sky Mickey Mouse Plush
The second limited edition plush is the Fantasy in the Sky Mickey Mouse Plush that celebrates the Disney Parks’ tradition of fireworks. The adorable plush is made of thick polyester fabric with a fireworks print that comes with metallic detailing, embroidered buttons, and embroidered eyes.
