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Review: JumpStart.com

Monday, February 22nd, 2010

Computer details: Inspiron M1530, Vista Home Premium, 32-bit

Rarely are websites for children educational – and if they are, they grow old really fast.  I’ve been on my share of kid’s game sites, looking for something for my child to play (and learn at the same time – otherwise, we’ll just go outside, play, and get some good exercise!).  I’ve run into the typical Let’s-Raise-Virtual-Pets! type of websites and they’re not for my family.  They’re less learning and more product promotion, in the end (No, I don’t want to buy a $19.99 stuffed animal, magazine, or anything else just so my child can get something virtual and show off that he bought your product – my family is aiming to use the computer to learn!).

When I was approached to try JumpStart.com, I was understandably leery – learning and games usually heavily rely on the games part.  I wound up pleasantly surprised when the game turned out to be expansive, encompassed a lot, and fairly easy to grasp individual game objectives.

A 3D virtual world where you control what you see and what you do, JumpStart had me intrigued from the very beginning.

Pros:

  • Expansive – there is a lot to explore and a lot to do at JumpStart.com (also see: Cons)
  • Extensive – the variety of games and learning opportunities is impressive
  • Easy to Navigate – using a fairly modern computer (within the last few years, I would hazard to guess), the game flows well.
  • Fun – it has been both fun for my child to play and fun to watch them enjoying (And yes, I played myself and yes, I enjoyed myself.  There is no age limits on entertainment!)

Cons:

  • Overall, I was duly impressed – as I had said, it is very infrequent that I find a website for children that I approve of, but JumpStart has fit the bill.  My child looks forward to future updates, new games, and the changing of the scenery (for winter, summer, etc.).

Ok, that’s a lie; I’m totally looking forward to those things, too.

www.JumpStart.com

GreatDad.com Review Policy: The featured product for this review was provided to us, at no cost, by the manufacturer or representing PR agency for the sole purpose of product testing. We do not accept monetary compensation for reviewing or writing about products. We only review products that we have personally tested and used in our own homes, and all opinions expressed are our own.

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Posted in Reviews, Websites | No Comments »

Review: Begin Smart Books

Friday, December 4th, 2009

The milestones of childhood are a touchy subject for parents. Discussions about when your child began to walk, talk, and eat solids are sometimes the battleground for proud parents. I cannot tell you how tired I am of seeing products hawked on TV promising to make your child do XYZ faster, earlier, and better.

Begin Smart books are a good concept – easy, large-printed words with objects imbedded in the books (squeaky toys that sound like truck horns beeping, synthetic fur; those types of things).

I can see the concept behind them – I could even believe it. But for my child, it seems the books only work in theory.

Pros:

  • Large variety of books – from trucks to animals, there are plenty of subjects to choose from
  • Good philosophy – getting children interested in books and reading early is never a bad thing
  • Integration of objects like the squeaky toys

Cons:

  • My child had little to no interest in the book, other than to carry it around
  • Construction – the heavy cardboard books look though, but the binding was weak after turning the pages time and time again. My child, while turning the pages, playing with the squeaky toy, managed to shred two books

In my opinion, if your child shows an interest in books – that is just fantastic. If they don’t – don’t rush it. These books (the ones that survived) ended up being put up for awhile. These will *definitely* come in handy, but just a little later than the ages on the book suggest.

GreatDad.com Review Policy: The featured product for this review was provided to us, at no cost, by the manufacturer or representing PR agency for the sole purpose of product testing. We do not accept monetary compensation for reviewing or writing about products. We only review products that we have personally tested and used in our own homes, and all opinions expressed are our own.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Review: Play-Doh Coco Monkey Play Set

Friday, December 4th, 2009

Playing with Play-Doh was (and sometimes still is) one of my all-time favorite activities. Now that I have kids, it just allows me to play with it and not feel guilty! My parents had a strict rule – don’t mix colors together! If we wound up with brown Play-Doh, it was on our own heads.

I will start off by giving you the ending: this play set includes a lot of extras (like other Play-Doh play sets) and I would recommend to any parent; it is one of the most fun toys I’ve encountered as an adult. Oh, and my kids like it, too!

Pros:

  • It comes with FIVE cans of Play-Doh – bright yellow, pale yellow, vibrant pink, green, and blue.
  • Lots of extra molds (see CONS below)
  • Simple to use – a major bonus in toys today
  • Keeps kids (or anyone) entertained as the monkey spits out the Doh and punch presses it or grows hair on top of his head
  • Basic, Imaginative, and Crafty – lets kids imagine run wild without any set-up time or complicated parts

Cons:

  • One word of warning – make sure you keep an eye on the extra molds or they can get lost. We use a plastic bag to keep the pieces tidy.

Overall, if I gave stars or thumbs-ups, this would get the highest recommendation. Its simplicity is its magic and it will keep the kids (and you) entertained time and time again.

GreatDad.com Review Policy: The featured product for this review was provided to us, at no cost, by the manufacturer or representing PR agency for the sole purpose of product testing. We do not accept monetary compensation for reviewing or writing about products. We only review products that we have personally tested and used in our own homes, and all opinions expressed are our own.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Review: Fishbites Soft Swimmies (Step 4)

Friday, December 4th, 2009

Review: Fishbites Soft Swimmies – Swim Step 4

I know we are entering into the colder (coldest!) months of the year. I also know that plenty of people go on vacation to warm places to escape. It is with that that I review the Fishbites Soft Swimmies – Swim Step 4.

As with all products, it is important to make sure of the return policy from the place of purchase. These are easily for some kids, but not for others.

The most outstanding feature is the soft fabric that covers the arm floats.

Pros:

  • Attractive – bright colorful and cartoony fish look like they’re devouring your child’s biceps. As grim as that sounds, they are very cute and garner many smiles.
  • Easy to use
  • Soft – unlike traditional floaties, these are covered in a soft fabric. Even as an adult I remember how much I disliked the “sharp” edges of plastic floaties against bare, wet skin.
  • Works well for some children (see Cons, below)

Cons:

  • Arm hole size – My child found this difficult to keep on. The hole in which you put them on your arms seemed inordinately large. Swimming sometimes proved difficult because of this – they had a tendency to come off or get trapped under the armpit (in an attempt for my child to keep them on.

So, again, make sure that if you buy these that the store has a solid return policy if your child cannot keep them on either. My child ended up preferring the more traditional plastic ones, because he did not have to pay them the same amount of attention – they were slipped on (again, traditional ones are not as soft), but then forgotten about and he was able to enjoy himself.

GreatDad.com Review Policy: The featured product for this review was provided to us, at no cost, by the manufacturer or representing PR agency for the sole purpose of product testing. We do not accept monetary compensation for reviewing or writing about products. We only review products that we have personally tested and used in our own homes, and all opinions expressed are our own.

Posted in Accessories | No Comments »

Review: Graco Nautilus 3-in-1 Car Seat

Monday, November 16th, 2009

If the truth it told, then the truth is – there are so many car seats on the market it can easily drive the most patient parent over the edge. And let’s not forget how designer has to be (has anyone else noticed this trend lately? Let us all remember: pretty does not equal effective and safe.)

I was sent the Graco Nautilus 3-in-1 car seat and tried it out. The “3-in-1” means it acts as a forward facing car seat for children 1+ who weigh between 20 and 65 lbs, 3+ as a booster with back for children 30 – 100 lbs, and 4+ as a backless booster, 40 – 100 lbs.

Whether or not you like this car seat is TOTALLY dependent on its features and design.

Some basics:

Steel-reinforced seat

5-point harness for use on children between 20 and 65 lbs.

Easy height-adjustable head rest

Soft; energy-absorbing foam (EPS)

Can only be used in forward facing position

Pros:

  • Sturdy – steel and EPS make this car seat feel safe
  • 5-point harness makes toddler secure (and difficult for child to undo!)
  • Grows with the child
  • Good manual walkthrough

Cons:

  • Can take a bit of work to get installed
  • Slightly heavy for moving between cars
  • Forward facing only

In the end, again, it is all up to what you like and are looking for in a car seat. If you’re looking for the Fort Knox of Sturdiness, look no further! On the other hand, if it is going to be moved from car to car to car, then maybe look elsewhere.

The one feature I did NOT like was the fact that it was forward facing ONLY. While this is good for children who are 2+ years old, my 1 year old will continue to use his rear-facing car seat. His pediatrician was happy to hear he will continue to use that as well and recommended we keep him in there as long as he will fit.

Posted in Car seats | 1 Comment »

Review: My Tool Box by WJ Fantasy

Monday, October 19th, 2009

Oh, who didn’t have a kid’s toolbox growing up? Then you could walk around and be just like dad (or mom). Who didn’t? I didn’t. Not for lack of wanting one, mind you, but because Santa thought I’d rather have some other little doodad. I’m sure I enjoyed whatever was in the toolboxes place, but that didn’t stop me from wanting a kid toolbox of my own. So, instead, many, many years later, I get to review one.

WJ Fantasy created a Grade-A toolbox for youngsters. Inside a sturdy cardboard toolbox with wooden carrying handle are a hammer, a screwdriver, a saw, some pliers, tool belt, and 4 books (one for each tool).

Pros:

  • Durable construction of toolbox, tools, board books, and belt.
  • Informative books which are interesting to the little ones
  • Realistic design

Cons:

  • None

Being a simple toy is not a bad thing – it’s a good thing. By learning early, this kit teaches what they are useful for, respect for tools and their upkeep (putting away, keeping clean), and that work doesn’t have to be just “work,” but can be fun for all ages too.

The only thing about this kit and myself is that now I have to let my kids play with it some more. They’re all about wanting it back. Drats.

Posted in Toys and Games | No Comments »

Review: Felt Tales by Babalu

Monday, October 19th, 2009

“Felt? What kid wants to play with felt?” was my initial reaction. And I stood by it – what kind of gift is the gift of felt? But, importantly, I kept an open mind and I played with the kids and 3 of the Felt Tales boards: Busy Day on the Farm, Heroes to the Rescue (Fire and Police officers), and Pirates at Shipwreck Cove.

I have to admit, it’s rather fun. In fact, in an age of colorful, everything-is-moving-quickly, electronic toys, the Felt Tales were a breath of fresh air. Interestingly enough, my kids taught me a lesson about them, as well: if you have 3 boards and many characters and objects – why not mix and match? A police woman could be on a pirate ship that houses animals. The possibilities are endless.

Pros:

  • Well constructed and sturdy boards and figures
  • Many figures to choose from on each board (each board declaring “Over 20 pieces!”)
  • A nice step away from digital-everything
  • Good for the imagination
  • Truly entertaining

Cons:

  • Getting the kids interested at first. We named all the characters first in order to draw them in.
  • Storage – all those little felt pieces can easily go missing if you’re not careful

All in all I’m happy with the 3 Felt Tales boards. They brought together the family – they’re good for a one on one story, creating stories, or just telling them. I think the kids enjoy them too – they get to spend time with family and it’s not blasting noise at them or flashing. Plus, they get to make up any part of the story they want. Who knows? Maybe on day a piggy might actually be made to walk the plank by Brownbeard!

Posted in Fun stuff to do with the kids, Toys and Games | No Comments »

Review: Kids Original Canopy Chair by Kelsyus

Tuesday, August 18th, 2009

I don’t know about other dads, but I get tired of carrying things: blankets, diaper bag, diapers, snacks – everything that a kid will need for an extended outing. Well, my hands are full enough with everything else and I can’t carry everything! The Kids Original Canopy Chair solves part of that problem (now if they could only create a robot like Rosie on The Jetsons, I’d be all set).

The Canopy Chair by Kelsyus made day trips out to the park or picnicking a little simpler and, most importantly, safer too. The concept behind the idea is a folding canopy chair for children that’s easy to put together and easy to carry (for them, not for da-da!). I’m not quite sure how I grew up without one of these, but I literally called my parents and thanked them from lugging everything around by hand. Remember those lounge-style lawn chairs that tri-fold? Yeah, no one tells you you’ll carry those around forever and a day for little kids because sometimes they don’t want to sit on the ground. Now, problem solved.

Pros:

  • Waterproof – which I’ve found out essentially means stain-proof as well!
  • Canopy provides excellent coverage and shade from the sun
  • It is easy to set up and take down with the canopy becoming the bag
  • No tools are required right out of the box
  • Two shoulder harnesses assure even weight on the back
  • Only weighs 6.6 lbs
  • Holds up to 125 lbs
  • Sturdy frame

Cons:

  • With shorter children, the folded up chair on the back and seem a little long and can sometimes him them in the back of the knees. This would only be a minor irritation.

I’m glad someone came up with something the children themselves can carry – it takes a small load off of me! But most importantly, it’s easy from their to carry, easy to set up, easy to take down, and a nicely built piece of outside furniture they can call their own.

Posted in Furniture | 2 Comments »

Review: Submergency by Swim Ways

Tuesday, August 18th, 2009

Sometimes things pop up in the toy world unexpectedly. When I was growing up, the idea of a pool toy was a quarter you threw around and retrieved (and I’m only in my late 20’s!). But times evolve and you get new toys popping up all over the place.

Submergency is an exciting pool game that would be fun for kids or adults. Frankly, I probably had more fun with it than my kiddo did! And it’s easy to play, which is a big bonus with little kids and adult friends – you can dive right into the game without lengthy explanations.

All you have to do is set the timer for 15 – 90 seconds, set the depth range (bottom, mid-level, or floating) and toss. Now you listen for the signals that you can hear underwater (I mean, I could never hear my quarter, so that alone is pretty impressive). The first person to disarm it before it goes off is the winner.

Pros:

  • Innovative
  • Fun
  • Great exercise
  • Gives a sense of urgency and excitement, especially to children
  • Ability to set sinking level – from floating to mid-level to sunk
  • Bright LED countdown clock
  • Made of solid material that is meant to last

Cons:

  • None that have come up so far

Please note: the Submergency can sink to the bottom of deep pools. Please explain the toy to your children and always keep an eye on them while they play – or better yet, play with them!

Posted in Gadgets, Toys that dad will play with too | 1 Comment »

Review: Leap Frog – Let’s Go to School

Tuesday, August 18th, 2009

The last thing I needed was more children’s videos. As it is, I am deluged with PBS’ Sprout on a constant basis. I must admit, though, some cartoons I like – even though I am a full grown adult – because sometimes they teach and entertain.

Leap Frog has come out with a new DVD – “Let’s Go to School” which illustrates and allays the anxiety that a lot of children feel toward their first day of school. With a calmer child that understands a little better, it seems to lessen the parent’s anxiety as well. Although it should be noted that this DVD will not stop a parent from getting misty-eyed the first time they send their wee one off to their very first day of school – there isn’t anything on Earth that could do that!

Pros:

  • Close-captioned, unlike most other children’s DVDs
  • Takes the viewer on a tour through the classroom, making the environment friendly and familiar
  • Entertaining and lively
  • Interactive alphabet book
  • Sing along songs

Cons:

  • 35 minutes
  • Single “episode”

The best part of the DVD for me was the classroom tour – I’ve never seen another program really show a child what a classroom is all about. While the other material is not revolutionary, it is still a break from the typical shows seen on television and holds the child’s attention.

Posted in Videos for kids | No Comments »

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