Jibbitz is set to unveil a new product at the 2010 American International Toy Fair with the GeoPalz Activity Tracker. This is the first decorative activity tracker and online game that allows users to earn points through physical activity.

With a simple message of “Walk to Win,” activity is converted to points that can be accumulated and redeemed at the GeoPalz.com Web site for free activity-based products, sports equipment, games and educational-based toys. GeoPalz are produced in limited quantities and retail for $19.99 each.

Source

Put or better yet, teach your child some organization by providing him with this Thomas the Tank: New Destinations Pop-Up Storage Toy Chest. This should be a great toy chest , especially for the kids who have been following Thomas the Tank.

Ideal for toys and other kids stuff, it stores flat and is easy to open. It also has convenient carry handles and measures 32×17x17 inches. Price: $12.95

Source

Be sure to shop safely and keep updated on the latest recalls in toys and kid’s items.  It’s a good habit to get into to regularly check out the CDC’s website on toy recalls (here is the link).

» Continue Reading

Christmas won’t be complete without the bright lights and the beautiful Christmas tree. These holiday decorations are fun to look at, but they can also be hazardous for children. Here’s how to deal with common accidents during the Christmas season:

Your child steps on a glass ornament- You can use clean hands or tweezers to remove the visible shards of glass. To make it stop bleeding, try elevating her foot and apply direct pressure to the wound using a clean cloth. Remember to wash the area with water and soap when the bleeding stops. Apply an antibiotic ointment, and bandage the wound to avoid infection.

A candle tips over and burns your child’s hand – Run her hand under cold water for 15 – 20 minutes. Apply a topical antibiotic ointment (prescribe by the doctor). Don’t use petroleum jelly or butter which could cause an infection. You can give your child ibuprofen to lessen the pain and swelling. Always keep her elevated.

Your toddler gets an electrical shock from holiday lights. – Unplug the lights immediately. If you can’t turn off the power, don’t touch your child. Stand in a dry area and use a wooden object (such as a broom handle) to push your child away from the current. Once he’s free, check if he’s breathing normally. If he’s unconscious, start CPR or bring him to the hospital immediately. Even if he seems okay, call your pediatrician or take your child to the E.R. – he could have internal injury.

Great Recommended reads from around our network?

Holiday safety tips for parents

Christmas shopping with your little one

My child’s Christmas wish list

Tell your child that not all items on his list should be toys. Suggest non-material things to request – like a special one-on-one time with mom and dad or a fun picnic in your backyard.

Ask your child to write down the gifts she wants most. (ex. TOP 5 things I want for Christmas) Make sure her list contains some items he needs, such as new sneakers or new bag for school.

Try not to take your child through a toy store between now and Christmas- It’ll only feed his desire to be showered with playthings. (Like adults, we want to buy the things that we see in the mall but we have “self-control” unlike our kids.) But to take him for a stroll inside a bookstore; it will inspire him to ask for some books that he sees.

Make your Christmas different by teaching your child how to donate old toys, clothes etc. to charity. Let your child experience the true meaning of Christmas.