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Hot Wheels Drops the Ultimate Ferrari Dream Garage in 1:64th Scale

 Mattel, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAT) debuted the first nine Hot Wheels® products from the brand’s recently announced partnership with Ferrari, the legendary luxury sports car manufacturer. For the first time in more than 10 years, Hot Wheels and Ferrari fans alike will have the opportunity to bring a little piece of automotive history home. The initial release includes a diverse mix of Ferrari models that celebrate the storied history of the brand, including iconic road cars such as the Ferrari F50 and modern racing cars like the Ferrari 499P Modificata.  To kick off the product releases, a boxed set of two limited-edition Hot Wheels Collector die-cast cars are available for pre-order today on Mattel Creations. The set includes a Ferrari 312 P, a tribute to the Hot Wheels brand’s first ever Ferrari model which was released in 1970, and a Ferrari 499P Modificata, the manufacturer’s modern 24 Hours of Le Mans winning racer. The product line also features a variety of premium items, with authentic details and elevated materials, and a selection of models in the Hot Wheels singles assortment, the #1 toy in the world*. Hot Wheels has also reimagined one of Ferrari’s newest vehicles, the Ferrari SF90 Stradale, as a 1:64 scale RC car compatible with Hot Wheels track sets. With full-function controls (forward, reverse, left and right steering) the SF90 Stradale Assetto Fiorano RC gives Ferrari fans the ability to pilot one of the brands most exclusive road cars. “This collection was developed with all Hot Wheels fans in mind, from true Ferrari connoisseurs to budding automotive enthusiasts, thanks to the attention to detail by our design team,” said Roberto Stanichi, executive vice president of Hot Wheels and Head of Vehicles & Building Sets at Mattel. “From our core die-cast available at retail worldwide to our most premium limited-edition models on Mattel Creations, fans of all ages can now bring a piece of Ferrari home.” A complete overview of the upcoming products, including availability and suggested retail price, can be found below. The Hot Wheels products from the collaboration will hit shelves starting this summer and will be available for purchase wherever Hot Wheels products are sold. Additional announcements and product drops will follow throughout 2025 and beyond.For more information, please visit www.hotwheels.com/ferrari. The Hot Wheels Ferrari 2025 product lineup includes: Hot Wheels for Ferrari Heritage Set Adult | Available for pre-order now on MattelCreations.com  Hot Wheels Ferrari 312P & Hot Wheels Ferrari 499P Modificata Includes an authentic re-creation of the first-ever Hot Wheels® Ferrari car released in 1970. Bursting with silver plated red Spectraflame™ paint and Neo-Classics™ Redline wheels. Also included is the highest-performance closed-wheel car derived from the 499P that triumphed at the 24 Hours of Le Mans while also sporting silver plate red Spectraflame paint and 10-spoke Real Riders™ wheels. Hot Wheels Premium 499P Modificata 3Y+ | Available in July at nationwide retailers The Ferrari 499P marks a historic return to endurance racing for Ferrari, showcasing cutting-edge hybrid technology and rekindling the brand’s legacy in the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans competition. This Hot Wheels Premium vehicle features a full die-cast body and chassis with Real Riders wheels. Hot Wheels Premium LaFerrari 3Y+ | Available in September at nationwide retailers The LaFerrari represents Ferrari’s ultimate expression of hybrid technology and performance, combining cutting-edge engineering with breathtaking power to set new standards for the brand’s supercar legacy. This Hot Wheels Premium vehicle features a full die-cast body and chassis with Real Riders wheels. Hot Wheels Premium Ferrari F50 3Y+ | Available in November at nationwide retailers The Ferrari F50 is a true driver’s car, blending Formula 1-inspired technology with a street-legal roadster design, offering an unparalleled driving experience as a limited-production supercar. This Hot Wheels Premium vehicle features a full die-cast body and chassis with Real Riders wheels. Hot Wheels Premium Ferrari 250 GTO & Fiat 642 RN2 Bartoletti Transporter 3Y+ | Available in October at nationwide retailers The Ferrari 250 GTO represents the pinnacle of the 250 GT series, blending advanced competition engineering with the elegance of a road car. We’ve paired it with the iconic Fiat 642 RN2 Bartoletti, historically known for transporting Ferraris to the world’s most prestigious racetracks. Both vehicles are feature Hot Wheels Premium full die-cast bodies and chassis with Real Riders wheels. Hot Wheels Ferrari SF90 Stradale 3Y+ | Available in June at nationwide retailers Drive beyond dreams and accelerate from 0 to 60 in just 2.5 seconds with this scorching hybrid hypercar. The future-forward design, combined with 986 hp, makes it a spectacle of speed and elegance. After all, it’s a Ferrari. Hot Wheels Ferrari F40 Competizione 3Y+ | Available in July at nationwide retailers Originally intended to race at Le Mans, the Ferrari F-40 Competizione was a much more powerful version of the F40 LM. Its reinforced chassis, 720bhp engine, racing gearbox, and other gains made it a prized possession for private collectors. A total of 8-10 vehicles were manufactured, making it a true rarity. Hot Wheels Ferrari 365 GTB4 Competizione 3Y+ | Available in August at nationwide retailers With a modified engine sporting 430 bhp, and an all-aluminum body with plastic windows to lighten its load, this highly competitive endurance racer was “built for speed!” It crushed the competition with class wins at the 24 Hours of Le mans and Daytona 24 Hours. Hot Wheels Ferrari SF90 Stradale Assetto Fiorano RC 5Y+ | Available in June at nationwide retailers The most iconic car brand now has its own 1:64 Hot Wheels RC version!  Get behind the wheel of your own Ferrari SF90 at 1:64th scale! On & off-track fun! The only RC able to go through loops!  Use the full-function control (forward, reverse, left and right steering) for blistering speed and amazing stunts.

April 9, 2025
Parenting Hub

Barbie® Doll with Down Syndrome, Supported by Down Syndrome South Africa, Now Available in Store

The newest addition to Mattel’s range of inspirational dolls is a Barbie doll with Down syndrome, created to allow even more children to see themselves in Barbie, as well as have Barbie reflect the world around them. Now available in South Africa, ahead of National Down Syndrome Day on the 20th of October, The Barbie doll with Down syndrome is meant to inspire all children to tell more stories through play.   “As the most diverse doll line on the market, Barbie plays an important role in a child’s early experiences, and we are dedicated to doing our part to counter social stigma through play,” said Lisa McKnight, Executive Vice President and Global Head of Barbie & Dolls, Mattel. “Doll play outside of a child’s own lived experience can teach understanding and build a greater sense of empathy, leading to a more accepting world. We are proud to introduce a Barbie doll with Down syndrome to better reflect the world around us and further our commitment to celebrating inclusion through play.”   To ensure the doll accurately represents a person with Down syndrome, Barbie worked closely with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS). NDSS empowers individuals with Down syndrome and their families by providing resources, driving policy change, engaging with local communities. NDSS’s guidance and real-world experiences informed the design process from start to finish, including the dolls sculpt, clothing, accessories, and packaging. The close partnership ensured the Barbie team celebrated individuals with Down syndrome through a doll that would immediately connect with the community.  “The launch of new Barbie Doll with Down syndrome in South Africa is a powerful symbol of inclusivity and representation”, says Ancella Ramjas, National Executive Director at Down Syndrome South Africa (DSSA). As an organisation working with persons with Down Syndrome and their families, this presents a unique opportunity to work with Barbie SA to educate, empower and promote acceptance towards a more inclusive world, where everyone’s uniqueness is celebrated.”  “’Empowering Dreams, Embracing Diversity’ is the theme that we will be working with our upcoming National Awareness Month in October, and I also think it aligns with the message that we as an organisation see with regards to the impact of the new Barbie Doll. Together let’s break down barriers one doll at a time by Empowering Dreams and Embracing Diversity,” concludes Ancella Ramjas.  Children’s early experiences help shape their thoughts and perceptions – and Barbie can play an important role in this process. When a child plays with Barbie, they play out their dreams and imagine they can be anything. Doll play has an incredible purpose during key developmental stages as it may help set children on a course for success by allowing them to develop empathy – fuelling social skills needed to excel as they imagine their futures with an equal playing field. The Barbie doll with Down syndrome allows more children to see themselves in Barbie as well as the world around them, which can help foster a sense of inclusivity.    Barbie is the most inclusive doll line on the market – with over 175 looks offering a variety of eye colours, hair colours and textures, body types, disabilities, and fashions to tell more stories. Barbie has introduced dolls with vitiligo, dolls that use a wheelchair or a prosthetic limb, a doll with hearing aids and a doll without hair. This year, Barbie is continuing to represent global belonging and inclusivity with the full 2023 Fashionistas lineup, which also includes new dolls in a variety of body types including a new Fashionista doll wearing braces and a Ken Fashionista doll with a prosthetic leg.  Barbie doll with Down Syndrome is available at leading retailers nation-wide, at a RSP of R279.00  Celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness Day by Joining Down Syndrome South Africa at the Pretoria Botanical Gardens for an Awareness Walk and Picnic on the 21st of October. The day will include a fun walk, cup cake decorating, family picnic, face painting, and so much more. RSVP to this event by mailing [email protected]  

October 20, 2023
Parenting Hub

Hot Wheels Skate Launches Exciting New Range in South Africa

The recent global launch of Hot Wheels Skate has created enormous excitement as new and old skating fans race to learn how to pull off all the best tricks on a Hot Wheels Skate fingerboard. Launching at the Ballito Bowl in Durban, in partnership with the Ballito Pro 2023 Skate Jam, a stunting and skating competition which forms part of the season’s hottest winter festival on the shores of the world-famous Willard Beach, Hot Wheels will further its mission to inspire fingerboard enthusiasts of all levels to ignite their challenger spirit and skate the impossible with no limits or rules. In 2022, Hot Wheels Skate began its partnership with Tony Hawk, the legendary skateboarder, entrepreneur and founder of The Skatepark Project, a non-profit organisation that helps underserved communities create safe and inclusive public skateparks for youth, by launching a wide range of fingerboards with unique designs. Created by the Hot Wheels design team in collaboration with Tony Hawk, Hot Wheels Skate also includes replications of some of Tony’s most famous board designs. “It’s incredible to have a brand like Hot Wheels Skate involved in the 2023 edition of the Ballito Pro Skate Jam. Partnering with an iconic brand, can only push Skate to new levels,“ said event organiser Markus Museler from Old School Productions. “Hot Wheels Skate aims to inspire the next generation of skaters in South Africa through kid-friendly events, engaging content, and innovative products. Kids can show off their amazing skills and perform gnarly stunts on the latest Hot Wheels Skate playsets,” says Bryan Nicolau, Brand Manager, Hot Wheels South Africa. The Hot Wheels Skate product line, which will be on-site at fingerboarding play tables during Ballito Pro 2023 Skate Jam, is another demonstration of the brand’s growth and expansion as Hot Wheels fuels the next generation of passionate action sports athletes with products, competitions and content. The line features a wide range of fingerboards with unique designs and attachable shoes, along with out-of-this-world skatepark playsets. The latest Hot Wheels Skate set includes the awesome Octopark Skate Set where kids can drop in off a giant octopus head and launch into an epic fingerboard ride that features grind rails, vert quarter-pipes and a chomping shark surprise. Hot Wheels Skate is available in all leading retailers nationwide. 

July 21, 2023
Parenting Hub

5 Facts You Didn’t Know About the New Barbie Dreamhouse 


The new Barbie Dreamhouse is a highly anticipated item this year, that is already a hit with kids and parents, for all the right reasons. Behind the stylish designs and integrated play opportunities are incredible benefits and features that we don’t always see or know about… So, here are 5 interesting facts about the new Dreamhouse that you didn’t know: It is a symbol of childhood dreams. The new Barbie Dreamhouse is a symbol of childhood dreams for many children. It promotes creativity as it’s a place where they can imagine themselves as anything they want to be, from a doctor to a fashion designer, and everything else in between. By creating their own scenarios, children develop critical thinking skills, learn to think outside the box, and practice social interactions with their dolls, fostering empathy and emotional intelligence. The Dreamhouse can help children develop their fine motor skills, and a sense of autonomy, personal expression, and decision-making skills. As they experiment with the customisable design, children develop their sense of style, spatial reasoning, and the ability to make independent decisions. The Dreamhouse includes educational elements, such as mini science or art stations, sparking curiosity and a love for learning in children while they play. It also features a dedicated space for storytelling, inspiring children to create and share their narratives, enhancing language skills, their vocabulary, narrative structure, and communication skills, boosting their confidence in expressing ideas and engaging with others. The Dreamhouse encourages doll play, which can also help children develop their social skills, their emotional intelligence, and their self-esteem. Doll play can also help children learn about empathy, compassion, and responsibility. By engaging in cooperative play, children develop important social skills such as communication, negotiation, and teamwork, building friendships and fostering a sense of community. It can also help them learn about different careers and different cultures and promotes diversity and inclusivity by featuring dolls of various ethnicities, body types, and abilities, helping children embrace and celebrate differences. Through play, children learn about diversity and develop acceptance, respect, and understanding for people from different backgrounds, cultivating a more inclusive and compassionate mindset. If you are looking for an iconic item that will provide your child with hours of fun, learning and personal growth, the new Barbie Dreamhouse is the ideal option. It is sure to become more than a cherished childhood memory. 

July 14, 2023
Parenting Hub

Expert Tips to Help Your Kids Prepare their Xmas Wish List

Holiday wish lists are far from a new concept, for most kids the biggest toy trends hit the top of their lists but the pressure every parent feels surrounding the festive season is sometimes overwhelming. As a parent we often struggle with giving our kids too much or not enough, you often wonder where the balance should be, coupled with the feelings that they are too spoiled or not spoiled enough. Frequent questions we ask ourselves include what should we spend? Are we making them materialistic? Or just simply showing love? That’s where a wish list comes in, it helps parents and kids keep the right attitudes and perspective during the biggest giving and receiving time on earth. Kids love making Christmas wish lists, here are some tips from the experts at Toys R Us on how to make, organise and share your kids wish lists with friends and family. This will ensure you get them something they really want and at the same time give them some guidelines and provide a good learning opportunity. Setting guidelines: Children need guidance from their parents to manage expectations and provide a good learning opportunity when creating their wish lists. If you are particularly worried about a wish list promoting greed, an important thing to highlight is that ‘Just because you list it doesn’t mean you’re going to get it.’ Be sure to let them know that if they get it, great, but if they don’t that’s cool too, create a savings plan to buy it themselves later. Why not set-up a toy registry and piggy bank on the Toys R Us website. In three simple steps you can set it up, share and create a registry. Starting early: Don’t wait until December to get your kids to do their wish lists. Every year Toys R Us releases their top toy list with an expertly curated selection of toys for all kids, this year is no exception. Children can pick up Geoffrey’s ‘Big Book of Toys’ in-store or online making selecting toys for their wish list much easier. There’s also an opportunity to win their wish list. A parent’s veto: Mom or dad have the last say, sometimes you just have to say NO. Explain to your kids why they need to accept it and move on and help them select a different gift. Give them some alternative options, brainstorm with them and discuss pros and cons. Needs vs. Wants: This is an especially valuable conversation to have, and the festive season provides a great opportunity to demonstrate this. Explain to your child the difference between a need and a want and show them options of gifts that demonstrate both.  Why not have them write down something they need, want, can read, can wear, and can give! Putting the list together: This should be the fun part. Get some coloured paper, decorations, crayons, pens etc and get creative.  If you want a way for your kids to create a digital wish list and share it with family, visit this link to create a registry: https://www.toysrus.co.za/registry what’s more you can add money throughout the year to their piggy bank so they can save for toys they really want. Giving back: It should be instilled in your children that the season isn’t all about receiving, it’s also about giving as well. Find a worthy cause to get your children involved, why not get them to donate some old toys of theirs before they get their new gifts? You can also donate R5 with every purchase to Toys R Us so you can support the Reach for a Dream Foundation in making other kids wishes come true. Take advantage of this great learning opportunity this holiday and help raise conscientious gift givers and receivers.  It’s just one more way you and your kids can add more joy into the holidays.  For more information visit the website or follow Toys R Us on Instagram and Facebook #ToysRUsTopToys2022 #BigBookOfToys 

November 22, 2022
Parenting Hub

Festive toy shopping tips from the experts

It’s unmistakable, the sounds of festive tunes, lights, tinsel, and toys galore are in the shops, signaling that we’re in the throes of the festive shopping season. For most it’s the season to be jolly, until of course you must start your holiday toy shopping which can be stressful. Every parent knows the joy you feel when you’re able to buy your little one the perfect toy that makes them smile. But, getting it right is not always easy. Christmas is considered as one of the six most stressful life events, along with divorce, moving house and changing jobs. In one survey of over 3,000 people, 86% reported that they find buying presents to be difficult and 65% reported Christmas shopping as a stressful experience. Some reports have even suggested that Christmas shopping can be as stressful as running a marathon, as it may increase your heart rate by 33%. Shop smart this festive season with these sanity-saving hacks for parents from the experts at Toys R Us to help you avoid the holiday stress. Wish lists: Get your kids to do their wish lists early, as this will ensure you get them something they really want, while at the same time manage their expectations. Doing this early on also allows you to budget and plan of time. Having a wish list means you can share their wants with other family members ensuring the burden isn’t entirely left on you. Why not try a digital wish list or registry and share it with the whole family.  Set a budget: A budget is key in terms of planning your holiday shopping. This will ensure you have either saved the money early on that you will allocate to gifts, or you can plan how many gifts and what exactly you would like to buy. Important to remember of course is not to borrow or withdraw from your savings. Try to set a spending limit for every gift you buy. Determine the total amount you will spend on gifts and then divide it amongst who you are going to buy for. Plan with the top toy trends: This year’s top toy list featuring 22 must-have toys for the 2022 festive season inspired by the latest toy trends has been released. Most of these will top Xmas wish lists. So, if you want to surprise your kids, you can’t go wrong with selecting any one of these for their gifts. Everything from interactive playsets, collectibles, family outdoor games, dinosaurs and remote control toys will surprise and delight your child. Instead of going on long and exhausting tours of the stores, get your kids to do some screen shopping! Or pick up Geoffrey’s Big Book of Toys, a 68-page festive season gift guide filled with wondrous toys including something for all ages and budgets with incredible deals. Buying online: With the increased demand for online shopping convenience, Toys R Us SA encourages you to get your holiday shopping done early and conveniently online. However, just remember when you’re ordering online over the festive season, it’s always best to do it before the 16th of December. If not, the Toys R Us stores are open right up until Christmas eve for all those last-minute gifts. Mall shopping: Go early! The best time to approach the mall during the holiday season is early in the week during a workday. Fewer people mean fewer germs, flexibility to move around the store and accessibility to a good parking spot. To avoid large crowds, never resort to last-minute holiday shopping if you can. We are still living in the time of a pandemic, so, to protect yourself, you need to avoid having lengthy shopping trips. Pre-plan particular stores you will stop at to buy items to avoid you having to go back and forth. If you plan on taking your kid/s with you, identify a spot where you can take a break with them. If you’re visiting a Toys R Us store, your kids will be endlessly entertained in Geoffrey’s Land of Wonder.  “This year our Christmas wish is that everyone gets to experience a little bit of Toys R Us magic and we hope that South Africans enjoy our festive offering this year,” says Catherine Jacoby, Marketing Manager at Toys R Us. “For those wanting to do their shopping in-store, we’re ready to welcome the whole family.” For more information visit the Toys R Us website or follow Toys R Us on Instagram and Facebook #ToysRUsTopToys2022 #BigBookOfToys

November 11, 2022
Parenting Hub

Toys R Us Launches Toy Registry with Nifty Piggy Bank Savings Tool

Toys R Us has launched a toy gift registry with a piggy bank savings tool just in time for the festive season. “Holiday wish lists are far from a new concept, but we’re trying to simplify the process,” says Catherine Jacoby, Marketing Manager at Toys R Us. “Combined with our annual catalogue, ‘Geoffrey’s Big Book of Toys,’ we’re hoping that parents and children across South Africa enjoy the magic of Christmas.” “For most kids the biggest toy trends hit the top of their lists but the pressure every parent feels surrounding the festive season is sometimes overwhelming, therefore the toy registry and piggy bank savings tool is a nifty way for us to help alleviate some of this pressure,” she explains.  “Kids love making Christmas wish lists, we wanted to make it convenient for parents and family and fun and interactive for kids.” “A gift registry gives parents, friends and family members a convenient way to co-ordinate gift shopping as well as for kids to have fun creating their wish lists and sharing it with their families,” she adds. “Creating a registry whether it’s for a birthday, Christmas or special occasion will ensure that your kids can create their wish list, learn to save and have their wishes fulfilled.” What’s more, she says that this year as part of Toys R Us festive Top Toys campaign, one lucky child can win their registry to the value of R20,000. They can build their Christmas gift registry in three simple steps in-store or online and be in line to win.” “The newly launched piggy bank feature allows parents, friends and grandparents an opportunity to contribute to your child’s piggy bank funds and at checkout you are able to use these funds either for your gift registry or at any time,” says Jacoby. “There is also a bundle of benefits when creating a registry like a 90 day returns policy, free delivery and access to the piggy bank at any time.” The benefits of the piggy bank feature she explains is that it allows parents to pay pocket money or chore money into the piggy bank which can be used at any time for toys that their children might be saving up for. “If friends and family are at a loss of what to buy for a gift, they can also deposit money into the piggy bank – this means that kids who are saving for bigger ticket items can start saving throughout the year.” A good place to start looking for wish list items, she adds, is with ‘Geoffrey’s Big Book of Toys’ which has over 68 pages to unwrap this year’s top trending toys for gifts of all ages. “Our customers wait with anticipation for our annual catalogue and this year it will not disappoint; it can be found in all of our fifty stores nationwide or online,” says Jacoby. Creating a registry can be done in three simple steps she explains: Create an account online at www.toysrus.co.za or sign in to your existing account and simply fill in the required fields. Start adding products to your Toy Registry, select the product and click the ADD TO REGISTRY button, or click on the shortcut icon when you hover over the product. Now that your Toy Registry is complete, share it with your friends and family through e-mail by simply filling in the form, or let them know on Facebook and Twitter “We’re so excited to kick off the most magical time of the year with this offering and to make it easier than ever to find toys every kid will love this year, spreading joy and delight to families and kids of all ages,” she concludes.  To create your registry visit: https://www.toysrus.co.za/registry 

November 11, 2022
Parenting Hub

Top Toys and Trends for 2022 Festive Season Revealed

The list features 22 of the season’s top trending toys for kids across all ages Toys R Us today revealed this year’s top trending toys list for the 2022 festive season.  Recognised globally as the leader in toys, Toys R Us, after months of sourcing, testing and predicting trends, has carefully curated an assortment that showcases top toy trends, inspired by popular culture, that stimulate imagination and growth as well as encouraging interactive play across several age groups. “Social consciousness, post-pandemic living, nostalgia and consumers looking for value have all impacted this year’s toy trends,” says Catherine Jacoby, Marketing Manager at Toys R Us. “Consumers are driven more than ever by experiences and parents are looking for toys that give their children memories outside of the digital world.” She explains that this year parents can expect screen-free toys to top the list of trends and toys that encourage hands-on play and skill building. “We’re so excited to kick off the most magical time of the year with the coolest and most sought-after toys of the season.” She adds that this year’s list features a broad assortment of gift ideas for every age and interest and highlights twenty-two hero products that make gift-shopping easy. “From active and sensory play to play sets featuring kids’ favourite characters, this year’s top toy list encourages grownups to wrap up an extra-special gift that sparks hours of imaginative play and years of memories,” she says. “By identifying the top play trends to we’re making it easier than ever to find toys every kid will love, spreading joy and delight to families and kids of all ages,” Jacoby explains. “We’re expecting a retro revival this year across older age groups as collectible toys are topping the trends.”  This year’s Top Toy List includes some exclusive items to Toys R Us, like the Caylee Beach Villa, Peppa Pigs Clever Car, Lego sets, Muscle Remote Control Car, 4WD Drift Remote control Car, Reggies Police Car SUV Ride On and a full range of Squishmallows Hugmees which won Toy of the Year 2023. “Family play still remains a strong trend this year, with board games, puzzles and outdoor games all featuring amongst consumers’ wish lists,” says Jacoby. “Roleplay, sensory and educational play has also seen a surge following the pandemic with parents investing more in toys that teach their kids through the power of play.” Collectible toys are becoming increasingly popular which is fuelling the kidult trend she explains. “The growing ‘kidult’ trend was fuelled by the pandemic, with more adults than ever turning to toys to bring joy and levity into their lives. Toys and games have been a means of escapism for adults and offer a way to reconnect with their own inner child with toys like Funko Pop.” Notably, Jacoby adds that one of the most significant trends this year is unboxing and collectibles. “It’s all about the full experience from packaging to unboxing and then the replay experience,” she says. “The element of surprise, blind unboxing with kids looking for more, toys like Squishmallows Hugmees and Barbie® Color Reveal™ will be topping the Christmas wish lists.” “Construction with Lego and imaginative play and building things your way has seen a huge surge in extended play and building through imagination,” Jacoby explains. “This year is really about getting back to the core of having fun and we’re looking forward to being able to champion joy with something for everyone.” “Dinosaurs are always a firm favourite, more and more categories are incorporating this trend into their toys,” Jacoby explains. “This has also seen more of a resurgence following the release of the new Jurassic World franchise and the Jurassic World Thrash n Devour T-Rex will be on the lists of many kids.” Fashion in toys is really coming to the forefront with brands like L.O.L Surprise and Barbie Colour Reveal, Jacoby explains that different body shapes, diversity and toys that are relatable and aspiring which allow kids to express themselves through roleplay is being seen across many of the doll categories. Combined with the launch of the top toys, Geoffrey reveals the ‘Big Book of Toys’, a special bumper gift guide featuring 68 catalogue pages filled with wondrous toys including something for everyone young and old this festive season which will be available in-store nationwide as well as online from the 31st of October. In addition, Jacoby says, one lucky customer could stand a chance to win their toy registry valued at R20,000 by creating their gift registry online at www.toysrus.co.za. “Value both for our business and South African business is of utmost importance,” Jacoby adds. “We want to provide joy to everyone and we have made sure that we have sourced products across categories with more ways to play to fit every budget.” “Our Christmas wish is that everyone gets to experience a little bit of Toys R Us magic and never grow up,” she explains. “It’s with this in mind that we have partnered with Reach for a Dream, customers will be encouraged to add an extra R5 onto their purchase which will be donated to the organisation to continue making wishes come true.” #1 RAINBOCORNS EGGZANIA SURPRISE MANIA SERIES 1 ASSORTED #2 MAGIC MIXIES MAGIC CAULDRON PLAYSET #3 BARBIE® COLOR REVEAL™ TOTALLY NEON FASHIONS DOLL ASSORTED #4 CAYLEE BEACH VILLA – exclusive to Toys R Us #5 BABY ALIVE PRINCESS ELLIE GROWS UP LIKE ISABELLA & SOPHIA #6 L.O.L SURPRISE QUEENS GRILL & GROOVE CAMPER #7 Angel High Itty bitty Prettys Capsule Doll with Color Change Assorted #8 REGGIES MUSCLE 1:10 SCALE RC CAR – exclusive to Toys R Us #9 REV UP RAPID 4WD RC DRIFT CAR ASSORTED  – exclusive to Toys R Us #10 TECH DECK DISPLAY SKATE SHOP     #10 JURASSIC WORLD THRASH N DEVOUR T-REX #11 MARVEL GOO JIT ZU SINGLE ASSORTED #12 X-SHOT SKINZ DREAD SONIC #13 REGGIES POLICE CAR SUV RIDE ON 12V – exclusive to Toys R Us #14 PAW PATROL LOOK OUT PLAYSET #15 REGGIES MINI

November 4, 2022
Parenting Hub

Review: Organic Aromas Nebulizing Diffuser

Organic diffusers are an affordable, versatile, and convenient way to improve your health and quality of life. The organic Aromas Nebulizing Diffuser is a beautiful atmospheric essential that works through the simple process of oil diffusion, which uses differential in air-pressure to turn oil into a vapour that is then spread around a living space. This innovative Nebulizing Diffuser releases a mist of beautiful fragrance of pure essential oils and works together with one of the product’s main features to produce an LED mood lighting that creates a calm and gentle atmosphere.  And… it is truly beautiful to look at making it the perfect accessory to any home or office. The organic Aromas Nebulizing Diffuser uses the Bernoulli’s Principle. It blows pressurised air through a glass pipe and has a convenient knob to adjust the volume of fragrance coming through the nebulizer. The diffuser is quiet and doesn’t require a lot of effort to setup.  Everything is included in the box and we had the unit up and running quickly. Once you load the essential oil into the glass reservoir using the supplied dropper, you can switch the unit on. It is quick to release the fragrance and silent as well as beautiful and mesmerising to look at. Using the turning knob we had the unit on the lowest setting and our home was filled with a beautiful fragrance in no time. Not only is this product beneficial for you, it creates cleaner air. Indoor air quality is another proven benefit and makes room for more health improvement. The essential oils are able to help prevent all that you don’t want around you, including bacteria and fungus that needs to be exterminated.  With the dust and bacteria decrease you are able to breathe with ease, especially during allergy season. Organic Aromas offer a wide variety of essential oils for you to choose. They are concentrated and you do not need to add water to the unit, so a little… certainly does go a long way. The Organic Aromas website have essential oil sets or you can purchase individual oils to your individual preference. As accidents do happen and the glass is rather thin, if ever your unit does break, you could easily replace the glass reservoir, adapter or cleaning pipes. Certainly one of the better features is that the unit automatically switches off after two hours. We do recommend the usage of the diffuser within a well-circulated or open area. The Organic Aromas Magnificent – Nebulizing Diffuser is a fantastic device. It has added great value. All I need is this one nebulizer to fragrance my home or office. The benefits of diffusers are many and can safely be used every day to: Help you relax Promote feeling of serenity Improve focus and clarity Enhance your mood Help clear airways for easier breathing Promote healthy sleep patterns Relief of pain and cramping Visit the Organic Aromas website to purchase your unit today 

October 20, 2021
Parenting Hub

Review: REMY – A Book About Believing In Yourself

REMY is a short story revolving around the everyday life of a school boy named Remy. This young boy has very own battles to face and conquer. Along the way, comfort characters not only come to give him comfort but some guidance which would really love to master.  Naidoo has written an encouraging story to help and direct others in conquering their own battles. I enjoyed the journey of Remy going through bumps and realistic fallbacks as the lessons throughout the story can be applied in other scenarios. I feel that not only would young children, tweens and teens relates to this book but to many adults who lack self confidence in themselves and what they would like to achieve. Remy’s character was developed in a way I do not often see or read about. I think that everyone would benefit from taking a page out of his book. The story makes sense and gave a simplified view on growth at a well written flowing pace that replicates a natural journey for someone to go through.  Overall, I highly recommend this book. I found Remy’s story to be quite heartwarming, enjoyable and encouraging in my own story. This book is perfect for parents who are encouraging self growth and the understanding of emotions.  You can grab yourself a copy at www.mayurinaidoo.com. This lovely story was written by Mayuri Nadioo

June 25, 2021
Parenting Hub

Review: essence Hello, Good Stuff!

Hello Good Stuff is a range released by beauty cosmetic company essence. Their beauty line motto is Bye Bye Bad Stuff … Hello Good Stuff. Their products their definitely live up to their slogan. From serums to creams, everything is made from vegan natural ingredients to glow up your skincare routine.  The Hello Good Stuff Serum has 97% natural ingredients that hydrate and radiate your skin. The lively Pineapple Essential Serum has no added particles, mineral oils, parabens and no added silicones. It does however have the essentials of hyaluronic acid and glycerine which is a highly recommended set of ingredients by dermatologist to tackle the task of cleansing, hydrating your dry skin and a bonus for me personally to remove dark spots and inflammation whilst leaving behind a natural glow.  Hello Good Stuff Face Primer deeply moisturises your skin with caring hemp seed oil. This product includes no added silicones or parabens, micro plastics particulars or mineral oils. The primer boasts 98% natural ingredients which helps to make my skin feel instantly nourished and refreshed. I loved using this product along side the Hello Good Stuff Tined Beauty Cream to give my skin a natural and healthy look.  The Hello Good Stuff Tinted Beauty Cream is used to smoothen out any textured skin, whilst leaving a natural tint that can be used as a full coverage foundation as well! It not only evens out my skin but the product is light weight and requires minimal usage. This cream uses its ultra soft texture to make slight skin irregularities disappear while leaving my skin hydrated for longer.  Their full range includes: 3in1 Face Mist Volume Mascara Face Primer Pineapple Serum Matt & Glow Bronzer Tinted Beauty Cream The products are available from Dischem Pharmacies, TAKEALOT , Zando, Superbalists and House of Cosmetics. 

June 18, 2021
Parenting Hub

Review: CATRICE Serums

CATRICE is a beauty cosmetic company whose brand eases your skin into becoming healthy and less problematic. CATRICE provides a range of premium quality, gluten free, vegan, vitamin filled products to ultra-glam your skincare routine.  Their top tested favourites includes their skin transforming Serums: Hyrdo Plumping Serum Pore Minimising Serum Glow Booster Serum Glow Over Night Serum Glow Face Oil Hyrdo Spray  For many years my skin would be inflamed, red, scarred and overall problematic. Across social media platforms, dermatologists stressed how beneficials hyaluronic acid is for problematic skin.  This is what motivated me even more to want to try this particular product out. Since using the Hyrdo Plumping Serum, my skin has never cleared up so quickly.  It took only two months for me to see a significant difference. My skin was cleared from any dark spots, the inflammation minimised my acne, cleansed and smoothened out my once textured skin. The Hyrdo Plumping Serum contains 1.5% hyaluronic acid and pro-vitamin B5. Hand in hand with the  Hyrdo Plumping Serum, the Pore Minimising Serum has made a big impact and significantly reduced the size of my pores. This product prevents the early onset of ageing which is cheaper than trying to rectify these problems later on. This Serum is beneficial and suitable for oily and combination skin. This Serum visibly reduces enlarged pores and mattifies the complexion, with 10% niacin amide and ever matt by Sederna.  Glow Beautifying Face Oil contains 4 Oils (almond, jojoba, argan and rose) to provide full nourishment to your skin. The Serum is pleasing to the eye as it contains a beautiful shimmer! The product is smooth and easy to apply with only a small amount being used with each application for full coverage.   The Glow Beautifying Face Oil helped my skin look more radiant providing me an overall more natural Glow. This Serum did not irritate my sensitive skin which makes this product even more appealing.  The Glow Booster Serum contains vitamin C, E and B3, providing a radiant Glow and overall caring treatment with the added antioxidants. The product has evened out my skin tone and has provided me with a smoother complexion. The Serum can be applied before the application of makeup or it can be used on its own.  Glow overnight is a very light Serum that provides full coverage with a small amount applied. This Serum exfoliates the skin and provide nourishment, leaving your skin to have a dewy complexion. This Serum is not heavily fragrant and doesn’t irritate the skin.  Hyrdo Spray provides instant hydration with rose water and water melon extract. This Spray is non irritable and can be used either with or without makeup applied and it is calming to sensitive skin and easy to apply.  Overall I found the CATRICE range of Serums to be beneficial and will certainly keep them as part of my skincare routine. Their range is dermatologically approved and if you are looking for a serum range that does not irritate or burn the skin when applied, CATRICE has just what you have been looking for! The products are available from Dischem Pharmacies, TAKEALOT , Zando, Superbalists and House of Cosmetics. 

June 11, 2021
Parenting Hub

Helping our Little People® have big adventures

Parents have had a rough year with families still being encouraged to stay at home as much as possible. This however does not assist in bringing real life experiences to your little one’s.   With many parents battling to find ideas to keep their littles ones entertained whilst still stimulating and providing early childhood development, we felt that we would introduce your family to the Fisher-Price®  Little People®  Range. The Fisher-Price®  Little People®  Range not only provides time to play but time to learn and grow.  The Fisher-Price®  Little People®  Characters Before getting to the fun, we have to point out that we loved the characters themselves. From school children to doctors and pilots these characters really provide a great start for you to begin introducing different jobs that people have. The Fisher-Price®  Little People®  Big Yellow School Bus Recommended Ages 1-5 years A bus ride of fun awaits. We really do enjoy toys that stimulate young little children whilst still delivering a way to open up conversations from a young age.  With the 3 Smart Ages function your child will be able to imagine, discover and experience motor transport. With over 40 songs, sounds and phrases, you will be able to switch up the learning fun as and when they are ready. From learning about how many wheels there are, counting to 10, shapes, the alphabet and so much more, this really is a great purchase.  The bus itself comes with 4 characters, however, one is able to purchase more separately and The Little People®  Big Yellow School Bus can hold up to 12 characters. Our favourite was the little boy in the wheelchair.   We found it incredibly thoughtful to consider children with disabilities so that they too had a character to relate to (he is standard in The Big Yellow School Bus).  As parents we always try to encourage our children to not only learn about children with disabilities but to be considerate toward them as well. This is the perfect tool to start this small and yet powerful conversation off with your little one.  The Fisher-Price®  Little People®  Travel Together Airplane Recommended Ages 1 -5 years Travel around the world and throw in an adventure for your child. Go on an imaginary trip with your child to your dream destination and make the experience even more fun with The Little People®  Travel Together Airplane. You see anything can be fun when more Little People®  join in. Songs, sounds and phrases will most certainly delight.  The Fisher-Price®  Little People®  Range Encourages: Grasping and movement Strengthens dexterity and hand eye co-ordination  Stimulates auditory and tactile senses  Discovering cause and effect  Some of our favourites out of the range included: Launch & Loop Raceway Caring for Animals Farm Sit with Me School Bus Cuddle & Play Nursery Share & Care Safari™ Playset Snack & Snooze Helpful Neighbor’s Garage Wash & Go Pirate Ship Big Helpers™ Home Noah’s Ark Travel Together Airplane Surprise & Sounds Home Farm Animal Friends

May 31, 2021
Parenting Hub

Be a part of the Jurassic World Adventure

A Jurassic World Adventure awaits! If you have a dinosaur crazy kid, these action figures provide hours of fun and adventure.  These Movie-inspired dinosaur action figures have realistic sculpting, movable joints, authentic colour and realistic texture that make the figure come alive! Stygimoloch, the plant eating dinosaur comes with movable joints and watch out for her tail whipping action!  That is not even the best part. If you download the Jurassic World Facts App (Andriod and iOS) and scan under your Jurassic Creatures Foot, whole world opens up even more. Once your Dino is scanned, interesting facts become available. Not only will your child be able to learn more about these prehistoric creatures and hear them roar, but they will be able to watch a short clip from Jurassic World showing where their dinosaur appeared in the movie! The App allows for your child to rotate the dinosaur to be able to see a 365 view of them and their habitat. Move up the ranks using the App and unlock facts, making this a really enjoyable interactive experience for your child.  Whilst you cannot see all the features of the other Jurassic World Dinosaurs in the App, you are able to hear their various noises. But, of course, as your child adds more to their collection, this will certainly change.  Dinosaur of the week allows players to view a dinosaur clearly in its habitat. Your child will be able to rotate the dinosaur and to hear them roar even if the dinosaur is unowned. However, no clip of them is provided.  You can watch Camp Cretaceous on Netflix to extend the hours of fun! Follow six teenagers who stay at the camp and go through various experiences to help them better understand the dinosaurs and to get to know the other campers. Each Jurassic World Dinosaur Action Figure is sold separately, subject to availability. Colours and decorations may vary. For ages 4 and up. RSP: R399,99 Jurassic World is a trademark and copyright of Universal Studios and Amblin Entertainment, Inc. Licensed by Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.

May 28, 2021
Parenting Hub

Why we love the Laugh & Learn® Magic Colour Mixing Bowl from Fisher-Price®

We love any toy that can strengthen a young child’s developmental skills and the Laugh & Learn® Magic Colour Mixing Bowl from Fisher-Price® does exactly that!   Once again Fisher-Price® have outdone themselves!  Not only is the Laugh & Learn® Magic Colour Mixing Bowl super cute to look at but it is really fun too! Let’s dive straight into the features: The Laugh & Learn® Magic Colour Mixing Bowl knows when your little baker places the ingredients that comes with the set, into the bowl and rewards each movement of the child.  This works both ways, either putting the ingredients into the bowl or taking them out. What a delightful feature! With six removable ‘ingredient’ play pieces, two buttons that activate more fun songs and sounds, and an adorable light-up face, this sweet baking toy is deliciously fun! Fisher-Price® Laugh & Learn® Magic Color Mixing Bowl introduces everyday items to your little one whilst encouraging interactive play, they are introduced to important educational concepts like shapes. Colours and numbers.  With each action, colourful lights, music, sound and learning phases will keep your toddler really engaged. From new phrases being introduced, the alphabet and learning numbers, your toddler will be baking for hours with this new addition to the Fisher-Price® family.  Strengthen your toddlers fine motor skills through grasping and moving pieces in and out of the mixing bowl whilst introducing them to fun cause and effect skills as they figure out how to activate the bowl and music.  Where development comes into play™ Early Academics: Sung songs and phrases introduce your baby to the alphabet, colours, numbers, and more!  Fine Motor Skills: Grasping and moving the play pieces in and out of the mixing bowl helps strengthen your baby’s dexterity and hand-eye coordination The Laugh & Learn® Magic Colour Mixing Bowl from Fisher-Price® comes with 6 removable play pieces, the items are BPA-free and suited for babies ages 6-36 months old. So does this get Emma’s Parents Approval… oh yes it does!  Here is what mom had to say about it: Emma has reached the age where she loves trying to put things into containers and boxes, rather than just pulling things out. The Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Magic Color Mixing Bowl is perfect to keep her engaged with fun items and rewarding sounds. The toy plays the jazziest “ABC” song I’ve heard in a musical toy, I love watching my little dancer tap her feet to the beat! I did find that she had put her shoes, comb and oversized plush toy into the bowl as well, so I’m sure it’s sparking her creativity as she learns what fits!

October 28, 2020
Parenting Hub

Meet the ever so fun Linkimals!

Fisher-Price is synonymous with being an educational brand that many parents have trusted for years. With so much care and thought placed into each product it is no wonder that the new Linkimals are such a hit! As Emma is now 10 months old, it was the perfect time to introduce her to her very own Linkimals pal. This range is suitable for little ones from 9 months and up.  Baby is able to engage with learning in a way that only Fisher Prices knows how to bring to children.. The Linkimals range introduces your baby to counting, colours, music, lights and phrases. With their easy design made totally with baby in mind, Emma was able to interact with…().. easily and with little to no assistance required from mom or dad.  Of course Emma just loves pushing buttons so the Linkimals Smooth Moving Sloth was so engaging for her! Emma, and your little one, can easily develop Gross Motor and Fine Motor skills with the Linkimals collection.  And when you get the entire gang together, a whole new world of learning is opened up. With 5 Linkimals in the collection and using the Linkimals amazing technology, they are all able to communicate with each other! e How cool is that?  All the Linkimals friends want to play as well so when you synchronise them, the continuity between the range of Linkimals is fantastic. It most certainly seems like a bunch of toy friends are singing and encouraging each other all the way through. And their beautiful lights, dance and moving parts really helps to hold baby’s interest in the activity. Their songs are a little longer than would be considered normal for children of this age, but they all do have meaning and are not too long that baby gets bored. You’ll be surprised at the level of concentration your baby has! Having more than one toy from this collection is ideal. It allows children from a young age to experience support from another source, thus providing fun learning activities for your baby.  Each unit in the collection teaches different things which is what makes the entire collection so special. The Linkimals collections includes: Linkimals Musical Moose The Linkimals Musical Moose is loaded with exciting interactive play that introduces your baby to counting, colours, and more with playful songs, lights, and phrases. Just press his belly to get the light-up learning party started! Plus, when Musical Moose recognizes other Linkimals friends, they create a synchronized music and light show! (Additional Linkimals toys sold separately.) Where development comes into play: Early Academics: Sung songs and phrases introduce your tiny dancer to colours and counting from 1 to 10! Sensory: The moose’s light-up belly, playful songs and sounds, and soft antlers engage your baby’s developing visual, auditory, and tactile senses. Curiosity & Wonder: Your baby can discover the fun of cause and effect as they press the belly button to activate music and lights or bat at the bobble head. Fisher-Price Linkimals Smooth Moves Sloth The Linkimals Smooth Moves Sloth gets your baby moving and learning with exciting lights, music, songs, and groovy dance moves. Press the buttons on the sloth’s feet to hear all about numbers, colours and more, as the sloth claps its hands and bobs its head. Plus, when Smooth Moves Sloth recognizes other Linkimals friends, they create a synchronized music and light show! (Additional Linkimals toys sold separately.) Where development comes into play: Early Academics: The sloth’s playful songs and phrases introduce your baby to counting, colours, opposites, and the alphabet. Gross Motor: Sung songs and music encourage your baby to move and groove, giving their gross motor skills a great workout. Sensory: Bright, colourful lights, fun music, and soft arms engage your baby’s visual, auditory, and tactile skills. Fisher-Price Linkimals Counting Koala Climbing up a palm tree with their koala friend, baby makes a startling discovery: this tree grows squares, triangles and circles. The Linkimals Counting Koala from Fisher-Price is a musical learning friend for babies with exciting lights, songs, and phrases that introduce numbers, counting and shapes. And when Counting Koala meets up with other Linkimals friends, they light-up, talk, sing and play together! (Additional Linkimals toys sold separately and subject to availability.) Hands-on play, including a bat-at roller ball, shape spinner, and push buttons help strengthen your baby’s fine motor skills, while the exciting interactive content helps introduce cause and effect. Fisher-Price Linkimals Happy Shapes Hedgehog The Linkimals Happy Shapes Hedgehog is packed with exciting play that grows along with your baby! Younger babies can spin, turn, toggle, and bat the activities on their buddy’s back, or press the light-up buttons to hear songs and phrases about colours, shapes, and numbers. Then older babies can push or pull the hedgehog along for more fun music and sounds. Plus, when Happy Shapes Hedgehog recognizes other Linkimals friends, they create a synchronized music and light show! (Additional Linkimals toys sold separately.) Where development comes into play : Early Academics: The hedgehog’s playful songs and phrases introduce your baby to shapes, numbers, and colours. Gross Motor: From sitting up to play, to crawling and pushing, to walking and pulling their pal along, this sweet hedgehog helps your baby’s gross motor skills keep going and growing! Fine Motor: Spinning the roller, turning the butterfly clicker, pressing the toggle, and batting the bead bar isn’t just super fun; these activities help strengthen your baby’s dexterity and hand-eye coordination. Fisher-Price Linkimals Lights & Colors Llama The Linkimals Lights & colours Llama takes classic stacking fun up a notch with colourful lights and exciting music, songs and phrases that introduce your baby to different colours. Just stack the rings on the llama’s neck or press down on the topper to get the party started! Plus, when Lights & colours Llama recognizes other Linkimals friends, they create a synchronized music and light show! (Additional Linkimals toys sold separately.) Where development comes into play: Fine Motor: Grasping and stacking the colourful rings helps strengthen

October 28, 2020
Hartskind

We love the Disney/PIXAR Toy Story – Emperor Zurg

Emperor Zurg (also known as the Evil Emperor Zurg or simply Zurg); is the sworn enemy of the Galactic Alliance and the archenemy of Buzz Lightyear in the Toy Story movies. He forms part of the gang that make up the “cool” must- have Toy Story toys.  If your child loves Toys Story as much as my 4-year-old son, the Emperor, being one of the “bad guys” must be in their Toy Story collection.  He is the perfect size for action storytelling play; recreating favourite movie scenes will not be the same without him.  This figure’s head, arms, hands and elbows are able to bend and move and he is positioned on three wheels, making his movement across the floor look very realistic and intimidating to fellow toy story characters.  Fantasy/make-believe play is something that comes naturally for young children when allowed and given the opportunity to set their imaginations free! When your child engages in pretend (or dramatic) play, he is actively experimenting with the social and emotional roles of life. … When your child pretends to be different characters, he has the experience of “walking in someone else’s shoes,” which helps teach the important moral development skill of empathy. One of the key reasons why children should play is to develop their imagination and cognitive strength and should always be encouraged by parents. 

October 28, 2020
Hartskind

UNO Junior is so much fun

This junior version of the classic card game, Uno is perfect for families with young children who also want to participate in family game nights. With the year-end holidays around the corner what better way to spend quality family time together.  The child-sized playing cards are illustrated with brightly coloured zoo animal motifs and is so fun and cute, not only will it get your younger children excited; but everyone will want to play!  The awesome thing about these cards are that it has three levels of play to allow the game to grow with your child as they continue developing,  guaranteeing that they will not get tired or bored of it when they grow older.  Level One is simple matching; Level Two introduces action cards to the deck and Level Three adds penalty cards to the mix. With Uno Junior your children learn to recognize their skills in a fun way using colours and numbers. Each of the number cards (0-8) has a matching illustration so children who do not know their numbers yet can still play. My 4-year-old knows his numbers already, but he can still race to get rid of all his cards by matching them to the card show on top of the deck, either by colour or by animal.  And when your down to only one card, the same rules apply, don’t forget to yell “UNO!”  Playing card games gives you the opportunity to teach your child about rules, about integrity and honesty, and about luck.  Card games play a major role in helping to increase your child’s ability to focus her attention. It is also a very social occasion. Game playing enables and encourages your child to practice important social skills that she will need to play well with other children.  I love the fact that card games involve taking turns and waiting for your turn. This is something that every young child needs regular practise with, as It teaches young children patience and learning how to be a good sport. 

October 28, 2020
Hartskind

Imaginext GKG77 Mega bite shark

My 4-year-old and I were both super excited when we received a big box containing the Mega bite shark! I knew I was going to love what was inside just by looking at the beautiful sturdy packaging. His face lit up as soon as we opened the box. Inside, a mega shark with big teeth and a fierce expression!  Included in the box is a shark cage and a diver with a detachable air tank and a harpoon.  It was clear that this was not your ordinary shark toy! When the shark is rolled back and forth on the wheels underneath its body, the shark literally comes alive! The neck rocks from side to side, the mouth opens and close and the flippers move, mimicking a real shark’s movement! This feature is super cool and left my son and myself, absolutely mesmerised. He immediately started assembling the diver and attached the diver’s feet to the sharks back and rolled the “swimming” shark all over the house. Later he had the diver inside the shark’s mouth and had fun opening and closing its big teeth chomping away at the diver.  He continued creating all sorts of action-packed scenarios and invented stories and ideas, later adding seashells and sand to create an underwater scene.  The only disappointing thing is that the shark is not intended for water use.  I am super excited about the thought that went into this toy as it inspires creativity, grows imagination and helps children to develop their storytelling skills.  This set also encourages social interaction for older toddlers and children who begin playing with friends or siblings and sharing ideas. It provides an opportunity for children to practice and develop social skills simply by being with and talking to each other about their game. It boosts development of problem solving and self-regulation skills, learning to share and respect ideas of others.  A really awesome gift idea for young toddlers and children! Product Available for purchase: https://www.toysrus.co.za/catalog/product/view/id/67127/s/webname/category/5498/

October 27, 2020
Parenting Hub

Purity get’s baby Emma’s stamp of approval

Purity has become a trusted household name in Emma’s house, with mom and dad giving it their seal of approval.  With so many products on the market, it is difficult to know which brands you can safely trust.  Established in 1924, Purity has built credibility, developing and refining their wide range of products. Emma’s parents have been using the Purity range since her birth and certainly won’t be swopping anytime soon. “We just love that Purity offers us a perfect range of products to use for Emma, that is easily accessible whether we choose to purchase in the supermarket, or online.” We love the fragrance as it is not overpowering and gives Emma that new born smell (every mother’s dream) Even as little Emma is getting bigger now, it is nice to have a brand that works, keeping her skin soft and moisturised even in the harsh elements that South Africa experiences. Purity is a trusted name when it comes to baby care and I’ve been using their products since my daughter was born. I love that the range covers everything from bathing to bum cream. My daughter was born with a full head of hair which she never lost, so the de-tangling shampoo has helped a lot! Using purity products, she smells great, has never had a day’s happy rash and always feels as soft as a baby should. Their new range features no parabens, sulphates or colorants which is just what we are looking for to keep Emma’s skin healthy!  Here is a short extract from Purity on their new and improved range: “PURITY’s has a comprehensive range of products suitable for the entire family. Starting your pregnancy journey with their Nipple Cream and Stretch Mark Cream proven to decrease the appearance of stretch marks within 4 weeks of use. The Petroleum Jelly with moisture control and Aqueous Creams range with 48-hour moisturisation protects the most delicate skin.  The PURITY’s Toiletries launch is a culmination of two years’ worth of research and development. We reviewed local and international trends.  We spoke to parents to get a deeper understanding of their needs and challenges when it came to the care and protection of their children’s delicate hair and skin. We were also guided by our Panel of Experts which includes a dermatologist, a paediatrician, and an allergist in developing a range of Toiletries that meet parents and their babies’ needs. At PURITY we want to partner with parents along their journey. We believe that our range of specially developed Toiletries are a step in the right direction of helping little ones reach their full potential,” says Managing Director of Tiger Brand’s Baby Division, Mpho Toolo The new PURITY range, now available in retail stores, provides only the best, gentle and effective care products by offering an enriching formula for mom, dad and baby. “ Don’t forget to enter this month’s giveaway to win BIG with our favourite Brand… Purity

September 17, 2020
Parenting Hub

Review: Delite Foods

Want to feel like royalty? Of course you do. We introduce to you the luxurious Milky Mix Drinking Chocolate Chai Flavoured drink by Delite Foods.If your kids are anything like mine, they are in love with hot chocolate as soon as winter sets in, however, I am always filled with mom guilt because of how much sugar these beverages contain.  We were thrilled when Delite Foods sent through some of their amazing chocolate mix for us to try and the kids could not contain their excitement.  Picture a Lindt-like ball surprise flourish and releasing the tastiest dark chocolate through the comfort inside of your mug and best of all, there is nothing to feel guilty about when having this drink! The rich mixture is deliciously the healthiest hot chocolate beverage we have ever encountered. Not only is it sugar free, it holds some of the healthiest ingredients. This is a must purchase this winter. This product is Kosher and Halaal as well so now there are no excuses, get this yummy warm drink today! Oh and there is more… Custard custard custard and we are not talking about that yucky store bought custard which is packed with sugar and preservatives. We are talking about the healthy kind… there we said it!  Easy to make and boy does this mix go far, the yummy warm sugar free custard has been a hit after dinner time.  We loved that all that was required was milk and an electric whisk! The kids have found their new favourite and our mom guilt is out the window with this one. Not only is the custard sugar free but it is free from tartrazine, vegetarian and vegan as well as Kosher and Halaal.  Both items and so so much more are available on their website for delivery (safe, hygienic and secure) The Delite Foods range includes the below and so much more: Biscotti Custard Mix Drinking Mousse Jams Fructose / Fruit Sugar Flavoured Syrups  Glucogel Gummy Bears Jelly Deserts Liquid Sweeteners Powered Soft Drinks Sugar Free Biscuits Sugar Free Sweets Xylitol Get shopping today at www.delitedashfood.co.za

July 13, 2020
Parenting Hub

Mum & Baby Love Purity

Purity and Elizabeth Anne’s are brand names that I’ve always trusted. As a new mom, using Purity products was one of the easier decisions I’ve had to make.

April 22, 2020
Parenting Hub

Review: Happy Family Organics Products

Finding Natural and Organic snacks for our precious toddlers can be a hard task.  With so many options available for us, we never know which one to purchase. The Happy Family Organics Team sent through a few samples to try and boy did they go down well with our taste testing team.  The Happy Tot Fibre & protein bar is delicious. Not only is it gluten free but if you read their article on the importance of Fibre in your child’s diet, you would certainly be throwing a few into your trolley!The bar itself contains not only whole grains but the sweet delicious taste of apples really makes this an easy purchase. The bars themselves are light, soft so you know that your tot will be ok with it. It is also a great way to introduce a new texture to their feeding regiment.  Then we have the Happy Baby Organic Yogis. These gluten free yoghurt fruit drops would be the best way to describe them. They are delicious. I was pleasantly surprised that although they were small, that they melted quickly in your mouth thus making it safe for your tot.Best of all there is no gelatine or artificial flavours. Your child also learns how to pick smaller items up in a safe way thus working on their fine motor skills. I certainly love the packaging. I have sat a few times at a store and wondered if my baby’s were ready to try a particular product. On their packaging they give a clear indication that your child may be ready for Organic Yogis when he or she can: Pull self up to stand with support Crawl without tummy touching the ground Use jaws to mash food between gums Pick up food to eat with thumb and forefinger This small amount of information can really be reassuring to any parent making a purchase!  Happy Family Organics extensive range of products is available at all Baby City stores, Babies R Us, Dis-Chem, Wellness Warehouse, Selected Clicks, Selected Spars, Selected Pick N Pay stores, Selected Baby Boom stores and online from Takealot.com, Babiesafrica.com and Faithful to NaturePlease do remember that at all times your tot should be supervised during feeding and snack times.

January 24, 2020
Parenting Hub

Review: The Official Elf on the Shelf Range

This amazing tradition was introduced by Carol to her family.  Santa’s Scout Elf has the job of reporting to Santa whilst encouraging children to watch their behaviour because he is there, in the home, watching them and reporting back to Santa.  Her children were also encouraged to talk to their Scout Elf every day so that they can be sure that he will take their messages back to Santa every night. Now in her new book, Elf on the Self – A Christmas Tradition, Carol shares the story of how Santa knows if little ones have been naughty or nice.  Written in the first person by one of Santa’s Scout Elves, makes it more credible for little ones to relate to.  He tells children to give him a name which allows him to start his mission – that of reporting back to Santa.  Written also in rhyming format, makes reading the story fun and helps children to not only be good but to do small acts of kindness each day.  Find him every day when he gets back from Santa, as he will always be in a new spot. (By Carol V Aebersold & chanda A Bell with Illustrations by Coe Steinwart) Parents can make it a game for children to see who can find him and to come up with unique and inventive places within the home for their children to find him.  One rule to follow is don’t touch him, because he will lose his magic and then cannot report back to Santa.  But he’ll listen to them so they can tell him anything and he’ll report back to Santa. The night before Christmas his mission ends and he goes back to Santa to spend the rest of the year.  What’s great about the book too is that there is place at the end for your little ones to record when this tradition started in your family. Don’t forget that you can choose between a girl or boy elf… adopt a new family tradition this holiday season! Elf Pets: An Artic Fox Tradition This beautifully illustrated book tells the story of a magical fox that plants snow around the world on the roof tops of all the houses and magical lights in the sky. Create magic when The Arctic Fox provides a path for Santa while he delivers gifts to the children all over the world.   When some children stop singing the Christmas song, Santa brings out the little fox cubs to gift those children with their magical snow kept in their necklace collars, it keeps the children believe and the magic is alive.  All in all your little one will enjoy the ENTIRE Elf on the Shelf experience. Keep the magic alive and bring a little joy to your Christmas this year. Claus Couture Collection Make your Elf on the Shelf look stylish this Christmas. ‘Claus Couture Collection’ provides 7 ongoing outfits, that turn your Christmas from glim to glam! One of the outfits include a rockin’  Christmas tree guitar, awesome glasses that’ll drive every elf crazy, and a ‘Christmas rocks’ sweater for your Christmas jam sessions! The Scout Elves work so hard they need a good night’s rest.  Imagine having your child place out a bed each night for your Elf to catch a small nap! You can buy your Elf on the Shelf, a little bed to keep him warm and energised.  Included is his own personal teddy to keep him company. Keep the magic alive by ensuring that your Elf is kept comfortable this holiday season. Available to purchase at: Takealot.com Toy Kingdom Hamleys Toy Zone Toys r Us

November 15, 2019
Parenting Hub

Review: Thule Sleek Changing Bag

We love the Thule Sleek Changing Bag. Every mom to be feels that they have purchased the perfect changing bag until they have to fit everything that baby needs into the bag… The Thule Sleek Changing Bag is larger than most and moms believe me, you are going to need it. The bag has a sleek design with every consideration being taken into account.  With inside and outside pockets it is easy to keep things organised. The changing mat is perfectly padded PLUS it has handy storage compartments as well, ensuring that those nappy changes are comfortable for mom and baby in the mall. I certainly found the best feature to be that this bag converts easily from a shoulder bag to a backpack. With the loads that mom has to carry when going out, this option really does help make life just that little bit easier.  Available from leading retailers and a must buy today! 

October 29, 2019
Parenting Hub

Review: Angelcare Bath Support

The perfect bath support for your little one!   The Angelcare Bath Support cradles your baby during bath time. Baby is not only comfortable when gently cradled in their ergonomic shape, but the unit is compact enough that you could easily have your older child in the bath at the same time or mom could jump on in to have some bonding time with baby.  It certainly leaves parents hands free to wash and play! The Angelcare Bath Support also has two suction cups to ensure watertight stability throughout bath time. The silicone back rest keeps baby firmly in place but does not irritate gentle soft skin. The Bath Support is hygienic as it has soft material which allows water to drain through ensuring that no mould forms when you hang it up after use with its handy loop. Suitable from 0-6 months or until baby reaches 9kgs.  Please do remember as with all bath support systems to not leave your baby unattended.  Available from leading retails Don’t forget to follow @angelcaresouthafrica on instagram for their handy tips and to learn more about all their products.

October 23, 2019
Parenting Hub

Review: Natralogic – Maternity Skincare Range

This beautiful range by Natralogic is a must buy for pregnant ladies.  There are so many products on the market that it sometimes makes it hard for moms-to-be to select the very best. Natralogic is a a range worth purchasing. We sent our range to one of our readers and she really enjoyed using the products. The product range comprises of the following: Tummy Cremè Exfoliating Cremè Toning Massage Gel Cooling Leg Gel Nipple Cream The Tummy Cremè helps with the elasticity of the skin using natural ingredients leaving your skin feeling great after use. On their website they recommend that you use this in conjunction with the Exfoliating Cremè and we can see why. Our pregnant mommy loved not only feeling pampered but how her skin felt afterward especially when using the Toning Massage Gel. Certainly the best part of these products is that you can use them while your are pregnant and after to keep your skin looking great! Katherine really enjoyed the Cooling Leg Gel.  As they were travelling this last stretch of her pregnancy the heat was really taking its toll on her legs. This really helped her soothe her legs and she was happy that she remembered to pack it in. She also reported that the gel is non-sticky and that she loved that their were all natural ingredients ensuring that not only was she safe but that no harmful ingredients or toxins would come into contact with her unborn baby. The Nipple Cream noted on their website that it is 100% ultra pure medical grade lanolin. Katherine has already been using this during her pregnancy and already felt a difference in just a few applications. She did not want to use it all because she really is looking forward to seeing the true effect when she starts breastfeeding in a month’s time.  Not only is every care taken to ensure that these products are effective but their ethos is one to be admired.  Their ingredients are certified by Beauty without Cruelty and only tested on themselves and never on animals. Their products are accredited by the International Vegan Society as well. The only exception they note is the Natralogic Nipple Cremè which contains lanolin however notes that no harm comes to the sheep during extractions (lanolin is a product derived from the fleece of sheep) Be sure to visit www.natralogic.co.za to read more about this range and to order online! 

October 18, 2019
Parenting Hub

Review: nu me cake in a cup mix

Nu Me cake in a cup mix is a revolutionary product for the tasteful health industry, making homemade goods not only delicious, but bring well nutritional value.

September 25, 2019
Parenting Hub

Review: EcoEgg Laundry Egg

A busy house always leads to loads and loads of washing so I can always get excited when someone can take the load off and make this task more economical and shorten the entire process.  This easy to use device requires little to no attention at all. After unpacking you simply fill the egg up with the pellets that come in the box.  The EcoEgg is an all natural detergent that sits within a plastic egg that you simply place on top of your wash-load.  With 210 washes at a cost of R345 and you can choose between the following fragrances: 100% Fragrance free Fresh linen Spring blossom Supported by Allergy UK and the National Eczema Society, the Laundry Egg is dermatologically tested and perfect for even the most sensitive skin. EcoEgg have a full range of eco-friendly products available on their website www.ecoegg.co.za – be sure to check them out and place your order today!

September 23, 2019
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