My Boys and Their Toys

An authentic source for moms and families on everything from parenting, food, travel and more!



leapfrog epic review

LeapFrog Epic Review + Preschool Toy Giveaway!

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leapfrog epic review

Are you trying to safely introduce your little ones into the world of tablets? Then look no further than LeapFrog Epic. This innovative tablet not only allows your child to safely explore online content through the LeapSearch browser, but allows you as the parent to control everything that your child is allowed to do on the tablet.

In the world we live in today it is very important to protect our little ones to the vast amount of inappropriate content on the world-wide web. LeapFrog Epic allows you to pick which sites are acceptable, but also allows you to decide when your child is ready to surf the web without limitations. [Read more…]

hp products

Print your Favorite Social Media Pics Instantly with HP Snapshots!

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Instantly print your favorite selfies & social media photos with HP’s new Snapshots app and sticky-backed photo sheets!

#stickapic party

We hosted friends and family over the weekend to an afternoon crafts party featuring HP Social Media Snapshots. We all love taking photos with our phone, but most of the time that’s where they stay. Now you can easily print your favorite social media photos for keeping or sharing with others. Our #StickaPic party box included fun photo props, craft glue and other essentials, printer ink, and of course HP Social Media Snapshots. Additionally, we stopped into Michael’s Craft store for a variety of paper for our party.

hp products [Read more…]

easy spelling app

Easy Spelling Aid App Review

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Have you or your child ever had trouble spelling a word? Thanks to the new app Easy Spelling Aid, that’s a thing of the past! The app makes spelling super fast and easy, and is especially helpful for children who are in special needs education. Using the app is simple, just press the large mic button, say the word that you are having trouble spelling, and it appears on the screen in an instant.

easy spelling app

The Easy Spelling Aid app is so easy to use! With its high tech voice recognition software your child will be able to improve their vocabulary quickly. The Easy Spelling Aid app is the perfect tool to help children learn how to spell and write any word at home and at school. This app can spell words or phrases instantly by utilizing superior speech recognition, finely tuned to pick up on your child’s voice or accent. That’s right – the app supports 22 different languages! [Read more…]

Rhapsody KIDS2

Get 3 Months of Rhapsody KIDS Music for $1 + $300 Target GC Giveaway!

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Doesn’t the radio make you squirm sometimes when the kids are in the room? Between the DJ’s cander discussions and songs with foul language – it can be tough keeping your little ones ears from listening in. That’s where Rhapsody KIDS comes in!

Rhapsody KIDS is the first music subscription service to offer a fun, safe, and easy music experience created just for kids.

 

Rhapsody KIDS2

Right now they’re offering an amazing discount to check them out! For 3 months you only pay $1 for the newest and most popular kids music available, including hand-picked playlists.  [Read more…]

replusor starter pack

A First Look at Disney’s Playmation Avengers Starter Pack!

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This is a partnered post. All opinions are my own.

Have you ever wanted to join forces with the Avengers? Now you can! Imaginary play has come alive with Playmation! New from Disney and Hasbro, this interactive gaming system joins wearable gear with technology for a whole new way to play.

Playmation review

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

  • Apple or Android Device (Android app coming soon!)
  • Current compatible devices using iOS 7 or later: iPhone 4s, 5, 5c, 5s, 6, 6 Plus or iPad 3, 4, Air, mini, mini 2, mini 3 or iPod touch 5th gen.
  • 12 AA Batteries – we used Duracell!

[Read more…]

LeapFrog products

Keep Learning Fun with the Latest Products from LeapFrog!

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I’m excited to announce that I’ve been selected as a LeapFrog Ambassador! As part of the #LeapFrogMomSquad I will have opportunities to share the latest products from the brand with all of you! That means you will get a first look and in depth review of the newest products hitting store shelves. And today we’re jumping into our first review!

Introducing the LeapPad Platinum, Imagicards and Word Whammer!

LeapFrog products

The LeapPad Platinum Tablet features a 7″ hi-res multi-touch screen and fast processor. With more than 1,000 learning games at your child’s disposal you can feel confident with a product like this in your little ones hands. The tablet also includes Wi-Fi with a kid-safe web browser, allowing kids to browse age-appropriate content handpicked by experts. Another great feature is the parental controls where you can decide what’s okay for your child and what’s not. [Read more…]

action cam for kids

Inexpensive Action Cam for Kids – VTech® Kidizoom + Giveaway!

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The product has been provided by VTech, however, the thoughts and opinions are all my own.

action cam for kids

Parents are using action cams for all their adventures, so why not kids too! The VTech® Kidizoom® Action Cam is a durable camera for kids adventures, including skateboarding, biking, and swimming!

For only $60 msrp kids will get a kick out of recording their own memories with this awesome camera. The Kidizoom Action Cam features a 1.4 inch color LCD screen, rechargeable battery, micro USB cable for data transfer and battery charging, and expandable memory up to 32GB with a microSD card. (microSD card sold separately)

No adventure is too big for the Kidizoom Action Cam, as it comes equipped with a waterproof case for underwater play, mounting accessories for bikes and scooters, and a wrist strap. [Read more…]

robotics

Teaching Robotics, Coding and STEM with Sphero SPRK Edition

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I am an Orbotix Ambassador. This post is part of a sponsored campaign. I received compensation for my participation, but my review and opinions are my own.

My family loves the new Sphero SPRK Edition robotic ball. Not only can you and your children learn about coding, but you can create your own code within the app, or your animals will get quite a kick out of this ingenious smart phone or tablet controlled device.

robotics

The Sphero SPRK comes in a neat box that challenges you to play with learning. With its translucent design your child can see how the device operates and pivots to obey the code you have designed. With 12 samples codes you can see not only what Sphero can do, but you can try out the different programs without any coding knowledge. SPRK is simple enough for beginners of all ages, yet sophisticated enough for seasoned programmers. It will let kids fire up their imagination and break the rules about learning! [Read more…]

wireless keyboard

Convenience at your Fingertips with the Logitech Wireless Keyboard

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If you’re a fan of wireless keyboards then Logitech’s k400 Plus is the one for you. This keyboard was designed with wireless entertainment in mind. It’s also lightweight and compact, and combines the functionality of a keyboard with the convenience of a touchpad mouse. 

logitech wireless keyboard

If you would like to turn your tv into a smart tv you can connect your laptop to the tv using a HDMI cable and then use the k400 Plus to navigate the web or any other multimedia device on your laptop. [Read more…]

App review

Numb Chucks: Chuck Fu App Review

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This post is part of a sponsored campaign. I received compensation for my participation, but my review and opinions are my own.

Our boys can’t enough of the iPad, and yes we do limit their screen time, but sometimes it is nice to have a break, especially when traveling, or on an important phone call. The problem is you need something to keep their attention for more than just 10 seconds. That is where the app store comes into play. Our boys enjoy quick paced games that keep them engaged, and that is what the new Numb Chucks: Chuck Fu app is all about. 

App review

If your kids are a fan of the Numb Chucks animated television series, then they are going to enjoy playing the new app Numb Chucks: Chuck Fu. Players are challenged through 8 random mini-games to master the art of Chuck Fu, playing as the lead characters, Dillweed and Fungus. The app begins with 8 out of the 12 step mini-games, and you can buy the other 4 steps through in-app purchases for 2.99. Each mini game is a different challenge from balancing at a bowling alley to honing your inner Chuck Fu in swatting bees away. [Read more…]

t-mobile prepaid

T-Mobile Prepaid Plans Starting at Just $40!

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t-mobile prepaid

Have you heard about T-Mobile’s prepaid plans? Their Simple Prepaid Plans begin at just $40 a month* with 4G LTE data & unlimited talk and text! If you’re tired of going over your coverage limit and paying too much money for your cell phone bill – this plan is for you! The prepaid plans allow families to stay on budget too.

More details about the T-Mobile Prepaid Plans

Plans include:

  • Unlimited talk, text and data while on our network with no overages or annual service contracts.
  • NOW! Includes unlimited calls and text to and from any number, including mobile phones, in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. PLUS use your monthly 4G LTE data in Mexico and Canada like in the U.S., at no extra charge.
  • Data Stash™ rolls your unused 4G LTE data forward in to the next month, for domestic use in the next 12 months. Available with 3GB and 5GB data options.
  • Music Freedom™ with unlimited music streaming on our network from top services such as Pandora and iHeart Radio without using your data.
  • Unlimited data and texting when you travel to any of 120+ countries and destinations so you can stay connected when you’re abroad.
  • Wi-Fi Calling: every Wi-Fi connection works like a T-Mobile tower.
  • Smartphone mobile hotspot: Use your device as a Wi-Fi hotspot.

[Read more…]

wokka wokka wokka

#TBT Classic Arcade Fav’s – Wokka Wokka Wokka

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I was invited to the Pixels Press Junket. All opinions are mine alone.

wokka wokka wokka

I’m no vidiette, but I definitely enjoyed playing classic arcade games like Pac-Man, Tetris and Duck Hunt growing up. That’s what appealed to me most about seeing the new Pixels movie, and my favorite funny guy, Adam Sandler, of course. I  was able to see an early screening of the movie and I got all kinds of flashbacks to my 80’s days. Seriously those were the best, right?! Okay, maybe not the attire, but the music and games rocked!

While waiting for the Pixels press junket to begin, I had the opportunity to get my game on with classics like Space Invaders, Donkey Kong, Centipede, and the adorable Q*bert. Unlimited gaming – sweet! Of course my favorite was always the munching man – Pac-Man! [Read more…]

Crayola DJ app

Jam’n Out with the Crayola DJ App

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This post is part of a sponsored campaign with Legacy Games. I received compensation for my participation, but my review and opinions are my own.

Crayola DJ app

Kids love music! And with Crayola® DJ, a cool and unique music creation app for kids, ages 6-10, they can learn the basics of music production, as well as mixing and scratching music just like a real DJ!

I downloaded the new app and began playing myself. The boys were soon over my shoulder watching. They said, “mommy can I play?” I showed them the basics and they took off – jam’n out while taking turns testing their skills on the Crayola DJ app. [Read more…]

ActiveOn DX

The Best Action Camera – ACTIVEON DX Review

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Recently our family was invited to Disney’s Social Media Moms Conference, which was an amazing experience and a great way to test out my new ACTIVEON DX action camera. When this baby got to our house I was so excited to try it out. Having the ACTIVEON action camera really opens up all kinds of opportunities for our family to record special memories that we have been unable to record in the past. For example, when we were invited to Discovery Cove, this would have been an amazing asset as I snorkeled through the coral reefs because the protective waterproof case of the ACTIVEON is capable of withstanding depths of up to 196 feet (60 meters).

ActiveOn DX

As we explored the magical world of Mickey Mouse we were able to use the camera on Epcot’s Test Track and Soarin’. When we headed over to Magic Kingdom I was really excited to test it out on Splash Mountain, Thunder Mountain, and of course the newest edition to the park The Seven Dwarves Mine Train attraction. I was really impressed with the life of the Li-ion battery, which has a longer battery life compared to other action cameras on the market. It is capable of providing up to 120 minutes of recording time at 1080p 30fps which is enough for most outdoor activities. [Read more…]

project yellow light

Don’t Be the Next Victim of Distracted Driving – #StopTheTexts

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This is a partnered post. All opinions are mine alone.

995…..that’s the number of people killed in distracted-driving-related crashes that reported cell phones as the distraction. Can you imagine losing someone you love over a text message or Facebook status update? It’s not worth it.

project yellow light

Project Yellow Light is bringing about change.  This national contest and scholarship program calls on students to create short videos educating their peers on the dangers of using mobile devices behind the wheel. Partnered with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Mazda Motorsports, National Organizations for Youth Safety, U-Haul and the Ad Council, Project Yellow Light is spreading the message about distracted driving. Drivers ages 15-19 are the largest proportion of drivers who are distracted according to a 2013 NHTSA report. [Read more…]

hot air balloon

Lighten the Load with the Key Ring App + Giveaway

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This is a partnered post. All opinions are mine alone.

hot air balloon

Have you ever stopped and wondered, “why do I need all of this?” Many times we carry around a lot more than what is necessary. Between laptops, books, bags, wallets, and even carrying our own children, we can become so worn down. Women are especially guilty of carrying wayyyy too much “stuff.” So I’m giving you a new tool to help lighten the load: The Key Ring App!

More about Key Ring App:

[Read more…]

Samsung-galaxy

Should I Upgrade to the Galaxy S6 Edge?

by 5 Comments

The latest iteration of the Samsung Galaxy line is made up of two devices, the Samsung Galaxy S6 and Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge. The Galaxy S6 Edge is the top-flight device available from the manufacturer, offering its revolutionary panoramic screen at a premium when compared to the base model S6, but the attractive package of features the standard Galaxy S6 offers means the difference may not be worthwhile for everyone in the market for a new Android phone.

Similarities

While the S6 Edge challenges the limits of the smartphone form factor at large by wrapping its Gorilla Glass screen slightly over the front edges of the device, both it and the base Galaxy S6 employ the same 5.1 inch Super AMOLED screen rated for 577 pixels per square inch. Both devices benefit from upgraded internal processors that promote faster operation than ever before and improved 4G LTE connectivity. Standard S6 models include 32GB of onboard memory to double the amount offered by the Galaxy S5, and you can get the Samsung Galaxy S6 at Harvey Norman today.

Samsung-galaxy [Read more…]

HP Envy TouchSmart Laptop That Delivers Extreme Performance #AMDFX

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This is a partnered post. All opinions are mine alone.

In the technology driven society that we live in today it is important to have a device that meets your family’s needs. The HP Envy TouchSmart 15.6″ Touch-Screen Laptop is that device. This laptop provides extreme performance with AMD’s most powerful mobile processor to deliver exceptional Gaming and Entertainment experience.
hp envyThe HP Envy TouchSmart 15.6” touch screen laptop makes multitasking a breeze, so you can spend more time with your family! The Quick AMD FX series processor is great for daily tasks such as managing your personal life or streaming movies or videos and provides great video quality for gaming or catching up on your favorite YouTube videos. It’s lightweight and sleek design make it easy to travel with. With its award-winning graphics the gamer in your house is sure to love it because of its unbelievable PC performance and the exceptional gaming experience it provides. The touch screen and Windows 8.1 operating system makes it a breeze to mega-multitask too! [Read more…]

Stealth_Infographic

America’s Wireless Addiction + What Rights We Have to Conceal Cell Phone Towers #StealthSite

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I am a member of Everywhere Society and Everywhere has provided me with compensation for this post. All opinions are mine alone.

Did you know from 2003 to 2013, cell site locations have nearly increased by 50%? We’re living in an ever-growing tech world. A study done by researchers at Pew Internet concluded that American’s have a wireless addiction. 91% of American adults have a wireless phone, and 29% of wireless owners describe their phone as “something they can’t imagine living without.” With the industry that I’m in, unfortunately I have a constant need to grab my wireless devices too.

How about this interesting fact: There are roughly 21 cell sites to every McDonalds in America! And 91% of people say cell service is as important as deodorant and more important than TV and coffee….wow!

As our need for wireless networking grows, so does the need for infrastructures to transmit our texts, social media shares and more.

[Read more…]

Doctor on Demand

Doctor On Demand Brings Virtual Doctor Visits To Your Fingertips #FeelBetter

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I participated in an Influencer Activation on behalf of Influence Central for Doctor On Demand. I received a free trial coupon code to facilitate my review as well as a promotional item to thank me for my participation.

Doctor on Demand

Doctor On Demand is giving US families everywhere an easier way to get in front of a doctor. This healthcare service provides virtual visits to board certified physicians, psychologists, and lactation consultants via smartphone, tablet, and desktop computer.

Simply download the free Doctor On Demand app to your device or visit doctorondemand.com via the Google Chrome browser to utilize their services. Next provide a few details, including your personal information and the symptoms you or your child is encountering. Then instantly connect with a provider in your state for a 15 minute video visit.

No insurance is needed. And your insurance provider will not be contacted through Doctor On Demand. [Read more…]

the original selfie stick

Tech Accessories That Make Your Life Easier + ReTrak #SelfieStick Review

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This is a partnered post. All opinions are mine alone.

tech accessories

The #SelfieStick is all the rage right now. We are certainly having fun testing it out! However, ReTrak has many other tech accessories that are just as cool. Today I’m sharing the top tech accessories you need to make your life easier.

ReTrak Tech Accessories

Get rid of the tangled mess with ReTrak’s Premier Series Retractable Charge & Sync Cable. Charge your iPod, iPhone and iPad with ease with this portable accessory. The tangle-free cable retracts for compact, convenient storage. You can also sync media, pics, and files between your phone and computer or laptop quickly and easily with this retractable cable. I definitely recommend this for people on the go.

[Read more…]

trap team

New Skylanders Trap Team Characters

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This is a partnered post. All opinions are mine alone.

new trap team

Skylanders unveiled new elements – Light & Dark – for the first time during the holiday season. As they continue to unveil new Skylanders characters, my son’s collection is quickly growing. We recently received a fun box full of all new Skylanders Trap Team characters that he can use with his tablet game. He was giddy with excitement.

Trap team characters are offered in a variety of sizes as you can see from the picture above. My favorite new Trap Team character is Tuff Luck. She is one tough cat! Her weapons are really cool too. Kaboom is the biggest character we’ve owned. He’s mighty powerful, defeating his opponents in a single “boom.” [Read more…]

#SwimandPlay

Interactive Preschool App Review: Captain McFinn #SwimAndPlay

by 5 Comments

I participated in an Influencer Activation on behalf of Influence Central for Captain McFinn. I received a complimentary subscription to facilitate my review as well as a promotional item to thank me for my participation.

Based on the popular Captain McFinn storybook character, the #SwimandPlay app brings Sand Dusty Reef to life in this preschool learning game! Available for iPad devices, Captain McFinn Swim & Play is the first-ever children’s app to offer an interactive live host!

More about the Captain McFinn Swim & Play App

As the child plays the app, the host praises them by name on their accomplishments. As a parent, I think this is a really cool idea! Children need tons of praise and accolades to encourage and grow their confidence, and this app helps to do just that.

During the game the host will suggest that players play certain activities that offer important pro-social life lessons, such as kindness and sharing. They will guide the children to locate the orange starfish which offers a tunnel to the secret activity, like showing their artistic side by creating a fun painting or record their own song!

Captain McFinn app [Read more…]

skylanders day

Skylanders Day at GameStop Stores

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This is a sponsored conversation from Mums the Word Network and Skylanders. All opinions are my own.

New Year, New Adventure at GameStop for Skylanders Day

Do your kids love Skylanders as much as mine do? The boys Skylanders Trap Team collection is continuing to grow, so much so that I had to find a Skylanders Case to store them all! The boys absolutely love playing this ultra-cool game via their iPad.

Don’t miss Skylanders Day at GameStop all day on Saturday, January 10th, featuring exclusive new characters, limited time offers and more! It will be a great event for the entire family. Visit gamestop.com/skylandersday for complete details and to find a GameStop store near you.  [Read more…]

Jabra pulse

Tackle New Year Fitness Goals with Jabra Headphones at Best Buy

by 2 Comments

Recently I started a Biggest Loser Challenge at my school to encourage the teachers and myself to get back in shape for the New Year. My number one way to lose weight is to walk/run on my treadmill while either watching a movie on my iPad, or listening to my favorite tunes.

The problem is my headphones. It seemed like every time I got into a groove I would hit the wires on my headphones with my hand and it would trip up my workout. I have finally found a solution to my problem: Jabra Sport Pulse Wireless Earbud Headphones from Best Buy.
jabra headphones [Read more…]

canon camera

Best Buy: The Ultimate Destination for Canon DSLR Cameras

by 4 Comments

 This is a partnered post.

During the holiday season it can be a challenge to find that perfect gift. Thankfully Best Buys great deals and large assortment of all things tech makes it a one-stop shop for our loved ones. One item that is on my wife’s wish list this year is a new camera. She needs something that is easy to operate and takes crystal clear pictures.

Best Buy is the ultimate destination for the latest cameras to capture your holiday memories. One example of this is the Canon EOS Rebel T5i. This is one of the best-selling DSLR cameras that Best Buy sells. This camera makes advanced photography easy and fun, and gives you exceptional image quality, along with a host of features to enhance your creative expression.

dslr cameras [Read more…]

Disney Learning app

Learning Fun with Mickey’s Magical Math World App

by 1 Comment

Disney's ImagiAcademy

With Nate working in the education field for the last 10 years and two young boys at home who love to learn, education is a huge part of our lives. We are also no stranger to technology driven learning environments, so we are always on the hunt for quality learning programs.

Disney just released a new learning brand created for families with children ages 3-8. Disney Imagicademy apps aims to engage and enrich children through the power of imagination and creativity.

The first app available is called Mickey’s Magical Math World, a fun-filled space adventure that explores concepts within a fully immersive playground of magical experiences. 

mickey's magical math world [Read more…]

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