Globetrotting Mommy

All things family, fun or just plain fabulous!

Pip’s Island – A …

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New York City has no shortage of opportunities for young theatergoers with Broadway and off-Broadway shows, musical performances, circus acts, puppet theater and more. The Big Apple’s newest show for kids, Pip’s Island, gives kids the chance to take in a show by being part of the cast in a whirlwind interactive performance in Times Square.

Pip’s Island – A Perfect Escape for Young Theater Goers


We checked out the immersive performance in previews and it was just as fun as I remembered their 2016 pop-up show. The new space is permanent so little New Yorkers and tourists will have plenty of time to check out this fun interactive show.

All dressed up and ready to head out to Pip’s Island.


As kids arrive, they are outfitted with “costumes” consisting of explorer vests and legendarium wristbands. The immersive performance starts right away as the park ranger teaches some important dance moves and explains how they are collecting badges or “sparks” to save the island and defeat Joules Volter (aka – the bad guy).


Young explorers (and their assistant explorer adults) are then scooted off on adventure after adventure for the next hour. I don’t want to give too much away but as the cast is introduced as various characters in their unique settings (the sets are outrageous in a good way), the storyline progresses room by room with plenty of special effects and fun. Along the way, kids are participating in various team activities and problem-solving together to save the island. There may have been some bubbles, dancing and conga lines along the way or maybe that was just my imagination. Cameras are not allowed which ensures all attendees are giving the show their full attention.


The recommended age range is 4-10 and there are some dark scenes which may scare younger kids. The staff is wonderful at interacting with the kids and the parents are always within sight while the children participate in group activities.


Get your tickets at PipsIsland.com and get 10% off with code Pip10.


Times Square has a slew of family-friendly attractions and if you want to combine a show with a nearby attraction, Gulliver’s Gate is a great choice.

Family Ski Weekend at Mount …

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I’m not usually a fan of winter but that changed recently after our family ski weekend at Mount Snow, Vermont. I had no idea if my daughter would love skiing or not but we loaded up the car with cold weather gear and drove four hours to find out.

Family Ski Weekend at Mount Snow, Vermont

Taking a peek at Ski Vermont’s map, Mount Snow, is Vermont’s closest big mountain resort making it a great weekend getaway for New Yorkers.

GRAND SUMMIT RESORT HOTEL

Thanks to Momtrends, our accommodations at the Grand Summit Resort Hotel, ski rentals and Mount Snow ski lessons were all pre-arranged so when we arrived on a late Friday night, we were all set to ski the next day. Note: The front desk, bell staff and valet were on hand to assist late arrivals on Friday which was nice considering we arrived around 11pm.

Staying at the Grand Summit Resort Hotel makes things so easy since we could walk everywhere we needed to be. We had a big one-bedroom suite with more closets than I’ve ever seen, a large balcony overlooking the slopes and a full kitchen and dining area which we used every morning for breakfast. If you’ve gotten kids dressed and undressed for snow, you know what a perk this is…

Coffee, tea and hot chocolate mix are provided in the fully-equipped kitchens.

Guests can check skis and snowboards in the lobby for easy access which makes traveling with multiple kids a breeze.

Aside from its awesome location and ski services, the hotel offers multiple dining options, a full-service spa and an array of complimentary family activities like games and movies with popcorn. If you’ve got adventurous kids, pack bathing suits for the outdoor pool and hot tub.

MOUNT SNOW’S SKI & SNOWBOARD SCHOOL AND GROUP LESSONS

Saturday morning, we headed out to The Discovery Center where you check in, get your rental equipment and gear up before meeting the instructors. Kids check-in is on the first floor and adult check-in is on the main floor making the process very smooth for families.

The Discovery Center staff was so helpful with sizing all our equipment (skis, boots and helmets, oh my!) and making sure we were comfortable. With our snow boots in the cubbies (there are locker rentals there too), we headed out to our classes. FYI – their ski and snowboard rentals feature the latest technology making turns and learning easier.

Mount Snow’s Ski & Snowboarding school offers a variety of lesson options beginning at just three-years-old. My nine-year-old daughter attended the Mountain Riders full-day ski camp (for kids 7-14), where kids are grouped by age and level. The 9:30 am to 3:30 pm camp includes snacks and lunch making it extra easy for parents.

Mount Snow has classes for every skill category and small group classes ensure kids get plenty of attention. This was my daughter’s very first experience with skiing so she started in the red group. We watched from afar as they learned how to put on the skis and shuffled around like ducks, once they mastered those skills, they headed inside for a hot cocoa break. My daughter gave me thumbs up and I headed off to find my class while my husband remained on photographer duty.

Family Ski Weekend at Mount Snow, Vermont
Family Ski Weekend at Mount Snow, Vermont

I have skied a bit, many years ago, so I was eager to try it again and hopeful to not break anything. My two-hour group lesson was full of fellow New Yorkers, Bostonions and a few study-abroad students. We introduced ourselves and it was amazing how quickly the teacher knew our names. After some basic drills, we were all up on skis and ready to tackle turns on a small hill.

Family Ski Weekend at Mount Snow, Vermont
Family Ski Weekend at Mount Snow, Vermont

After two-hours, I was proud of my ski prowess and ready for a delicious Vermont grilled cheese sandwich!

One of the most impressive things about Mount Snow is their massive snowmaking abilities. It had rained a few days prior to our visit but the snow coverage was perfect during our stay. I later learned that Mount Snow has the largest snowmaking operation on the east coast, following a $54 million upgrade to their snowmaking system.

My daughter ended up enjoying her day at ski-school and I was happy they were able to get her up and skiing, and even on the chair lift! I was really impressed with the staff and everything they did to keep the kids happy and engaged. I loved hearing the sense of accomplishment as she told us about her day and all she had learned.

The Saturday afternoon crowds were in full force so we headed back to our room for some warm showers and snacks before our blogger group dinner.

On Sunday, we headed out for a bit more skiing before the snow storm arrived. It was so fun to see my daughter’s new skills first-hand watching her go up and down the bunny slopes.

Family Ski Weekend at Mount Snow, Vermont
Family Ski Weekend at Mount Snow, Vermont

My husband packed up the car and checked out before meeting us for a waffle break. If you’ve traveled to Belgium for a warm Liège waffle, you’ll be thrilled to hear that Mount Snow’s Waffle Cabin version is THAT good.

TUBING AT MOUNT SNOW

Tubing is one of those winter activities the whole family will enjoy and Mount Snow makes it extra enjoyable with a “magic carpet.” Gone are the days of walking back up the hill with your tubes. This magical covered transport is a flat escalator that gets you back uphill in seconds. Amazing!

The “magic carpet” ride uphill makes tubing a breeze at Mount Snow.

BIG SAVINGS FOR SKI FAMILIES

Ready to plan your ski trip? Mount Snow features a variety of deals throughout ski season.

For new skiers, the Peak Discovery Program is just $139 and includes three days of lessons, rentals and lift tickets for seven mountains across the Northeast, including Mount Snow, Hunter Mountain, Attitash, Wildcat and more.

Be sure to check out the Momtrends ski guide for more information on family ski getaways.

FAMILY BONDING ON THE SLOPES

Between the top-notch ski conditions, encouraging teachers and convenience of staying at Grand Summit, I highly recommend a ski weekend at Mount Snow, Vermont for a family vacation. It was great opportunity to enjoy the fresh outdoors, unplug and have some quality family time.

Check out my Must Have Travel Items for Family Vacations before you plan your next getaway…

Note: Thanks to Momtrends and Mount Snow for hosting our awesome ski weekend at Mount Snow. As always, all opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Awesome Gift Guide For Tweens …

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If you’ve got a tween on your holiday gift list, you probably need some help.  These not-little but not-big kids can be tricky but lucky for you, I’m sharing a Gift Guide for Tweens. 

Awesome Gift Guide for Tweens
Awesome Gift Guide for Tweens

Awesome Gift Guide For Tweens

Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6 – Tweens love instant film cameras and the newest Fuji Instax prints out larger square photos that are perfect for sharing with friends at sleepovers or capturing travel memories. The chic design and unisex pearly color options are great for guys and girls.

Fuzzy Slippers – Being cozy at home and away is a win for tweens so you can’t go wrong with these cute bunny slippers for the girls or navy Ugg Slippers for the boys. Pair them with a unicorn onesie and you’re all set.

Shockatato Party Game – Remember playing Hot Potato as a kid? This modern version has three shocking settings with and without music. Great for parties or family vacations.

Scratch Off World Map Poster – Globetrotting tweens can track their travels and plot their future vacations with this scratch-off world map.

Dear Evan Hansen: The Novel – This bestseller will be a hit with older tweens who have seen the Broadway show or who are hoping to see it.

Not Parent Approved – One of the most wished for card games on Amazon, this family friendly game was inspired by Cards Against Humanity. Perfect for travel or at home, this fun card game makes a great stocking stuffer for girls and boys.

Erin Condren Travel Petite Planner – For globetrotting tweens who love to organize and record details of their vacations, this travel journal will be a hit. There is plenty of room for packing lists, daily adventures and more plus colorful stickers.

Watermelon Ball – Tweens will love playing with this water-filled ball at home or on vacation. It looks and feels like a watermelon, doesn’t sink or float and can be used underwater and in a variety of pool games.

Reading Pillow With Arms – My daughter just got one of these husband pillows and she’s obsessed. Its a perfect cozy setting for books, iPads and movie watching.

Wreck This Journal – Tweens will love following the quirky destructive instructions in this fun-filled journal. Perfect for kids who like to draw outside the lines and think outside the box.

Hope you enjoyed this gift guide for tweens. Check out my 2020 Tween and Teen Gift Guide and Holiday Gift Guide for Kids Who Love Traveling for more ideas.

10 Great Gifts For Kids Who …

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Its time for gift shopping and today I’m sharing my holiday gift guide for kids. Read on to see some great gifts for kids who love traveling…I’ll be back with a tween holiday gift guide so stay tuned…

10 great gifts for kids who love traveling.

10 great gifts for kids who love traveling.

10 Great Gifts for Kids Who Love Traveling

LeapFrog Learning Friends 100 Word Book – This sturdy toy teaches kids words and songs in kid-friendly categories including animals, colors, foods and more in English and Spanish.

Jenga National Parks Edition – Jenga is a great on-the-go game and this version features 100 educational fun facts about the National Parks which makes it a great option for family vacations.

Funky Chicken Card Game – If you’re a fan of the popular Happy Salmon game, you’ll love the Funky Chicken moves.  I love the easy to pack travel pouch and the fact that it keeps the whole family moving.

Ancient Wonders – Then & Now – Junior travelers will love this interactive Lonely Planet book showcasing history’s famous man-made marvels including Stonehenge, The Colosseum, Angkor Wat, Machu Picchu and much more. I also love their How Airports Work  book which takes kids behind the scenes of airports and more.

Rock and Roll It – Rainbow Piano – Music lovers of all ages will love playing with this portable piano.  I love that it uses batteries (or USB) so you can play it anytime, anywhere and bring it along on family trips.

50 Cities of the U.S.A – Kids and parents will love this gorgeous picture book filled with interesting facts and cool details about each city’s famous people, events, cuisine and landmarks.

eeBo Pretend Play, World Traveler Set – This easy to bring along set includes play documents like tickets, world map, passport, postcards, ID and bank cards so kids can plan their own adventures at home and away.

Spot It! On The Road – Road trips are a lot more when kids are busy looking for objects along the way like cars, road signs, train tracks and others.

Highlights Puzzlemania – Travel Puzzles – Give kids a break from electronics and let them enjoy puzzles, word games, mazes and the popular hidden pictures puzzles in this travel-themed activity book.

Quadcopter Drone – Last but not least, a kid-friendly Drone is sure to get everyone excited for the next vacation. Be sure to check the rules of using it in the destination before you go.

Have you finished your holiday shopping yet? Check out my 2020 Tween and Teen Holiday Gift Guide for more ideas.

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Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Holiday Gift Guide: Toys That …

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The cold has arrived and the holidays are on their way. I got a chance to see some of the latest VTech Toys at the Momtrends Moms’ Night Out and today I’m sharing some of my favorite toys that travel.

Holiday Gift Guide: Toys That Travel From VTech

Holiday Gift Guide: Toys That Travel From VTech

VTech is a world leader in developing high-quality, innovative educational products that enrich children’s development and make learning fun! In the last nine years, my daughter has gone from playing with VTech’s baby laptops and interactive toys to snapping photos on vacation with their cameras and watches.

If you’re looking for holiday toys that make learning fun and are easy to take along on travels, read on for my VTech toy picks in every age range…

Holiday Gift Guide: Toys That Travel From VTech Toys

BABIES:

Brilliant Baby Laptop™ – This travel-ready toy laptop features nine brightly colored shape buttons and a movable mouse that interacts with the light-up screen. There are various modes to learn about animal sounds, shapes and colors and music. Close the laptop, and it’s ready for on-the-go fun with a chunky carrying handle.

Holiday Gift Guide: Toys That Travel From VTech

My Friend Alice™ –  This interactive plush bear features different textures that provide tactile stimulation. Little ones will have fun putting on Alice’s mitten, tying her shoelace, buckling her shoe, putting her handkerchief and bear in her pockets and reading her storybook. Press the buttons for playful phrases, feelings and simple questions as well as numbers, a short story, music and sing-along songs, body parts and animals.

Touch & Discover Sensory Turtle™ – This cuddly plush turtle features a variety of textures, colors and patterns to stimulate your baby’s senses and encourage fine motor skills. Babies can play peek-a-boo by tucking in the turtle’s head and legs to change him into a soft, wobbly ball for 2-in-1 play. The chunky button (easy for little fingers) lights up in a variety of colors as it responds with sounds, music and cute phrases.

TODDLERS:

Holiday Gift Guide: Toys That Travel From VTech

Starshine the Bright Lights Unicorn™ – Unicorns are all the rage this holiday season and this colorful pick will be every girl’s favorite travel companion. Kids can use seven charms on any of the Unicorn’s magic hearts to watch her horn light up and hear colors, objects and phrases in English or Spanish. Kids can answer quiz questions, create their own special songs and watch the animals colorful wings flap.

Farm Fun Storybook™ – This cheerful storybook features fun sounds, playful phrases and three sing-along songs. Chunky tabs make it easy to turn and discover five illustrated pages about a farmer completing his chores. Press the light-up face button to hear different responses on each page or press the music button to play 15 different classic melodies. The spinning wheels make this a great choice for pretend play.

LITTLE KIDS:

Kidizoom® Twist – This durable kiddie camera is a great option for budding travel photographers. The camera has features for photos, selfies and videos as well as five games. Kids will be recording videos, creating stop-motion animations and taking selfies in no time.

PJ Masks Time to Be a Hero Learning Tablet™ – This kid-friendly tablet plays six educational activities that explore letters, vocabulary, phonics, rhyming words, beginner typing and problem-solving skills. Little ones will love the real character voices and exciting animations at home and away.

BIG KIDS:

Holiday Gift Guide: Toys That Travel From VTech

Kidi Secrets Selfie Journal™ – Big kids will love protecting their thoughts, photos and dreams with the Kidi Secrets Selfie Journal™. Kids can make a photo journal, write travel narratives and diary entries or record messages and keep them safe. A full suite of mini-apps includes games, photo and video filters, music and utilities gives kids a variety of activities to play at home and on trips. Best of all, there is no key to lose since facial recognition software unlocks the journal.

Kidizoom® Smartwatch DX2 – This colorful smartwatch lets kids take pictures, videos, play games, tell time and more! Featuring a new sleek and stylish design, this durable smartwatch features two cameras for action videos, photos and selfies. Kids can also use the watch’s motion sensor for active play challenges or to track steps. The included Micro-USB cable makes it easy to upload photos and videos as well as recharge the battery.

KidiBuzz™ – Not ready to hand your kid over a cell phone? KidiBuzz™ allows kids to send texts, voice messages, photos, drawings and animated stickers over Wi-Fi via the KidiConnect™ app. The kid-safe web browser features pre-approved websites and it also doubles as a multimedia player for listening to music and watching videos online. With more than 40 exciting learning games and awesome apps, kids on the go will be entertained for hours and hours.

Do you have any of these VTech toys that travel? Tell me below in the comments.

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Note: This is a sponsored post but all opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Great …

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Having an only child can be tough for a water park getaway so we started a tradition of bringing along my daughter’s “vacation brother.”  Last year we went to Sesame Place and this summer we headed off on a close-to home getaway to Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, NY.

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, PA

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, PA

I knew the kids would love the non-stop activities and I was hopeful the moms would have some time to relax. Lucky for us, I was right. Great Wolf makes things super easy with waterproof room key wristbands (yes, they also charge things to the room), plenty of luggage carts and an easy to navigate layout. The kids put on their complimentary wolf ears at check-in and we were ready for fun.

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, PA

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, PA

There are several Great Wolf Lodge locations around the country and each one varies a bit but today I’m sharing my top 10 tips for visiting Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, PA.

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, PA

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, PA

1)  Allow ample time to explore the indoor waterpark.

Great Wolf Lodge’s indoor park is the main attraction here so you’ll want to explore all the waterslides (ranging from single tubes to rafts), pools and hot tubs, lazy river and splash areas. My daughter especially enjoyed the wave pool, rope climbing lily pad area and the many water slides.

There are activities for tots to teens and lots of seating areas and tables where you can leave your things while you are in the water. The waterpark seems large at first, but after one lap you’ll have the layout down. Children 48″ and taller will be able to ride most slides and life jackets are provided for young children.

2) If weather permits, don’t miss the outdoor pool area.

The outdoor pool is large with a zero-entry shallow end and plenty of seating. Since my daughter and her friend are good swimmers, they were able to happily swim around while the moms enjoyed frozen drinks under the shaded bar area.  Win-win.

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, PA

We ate lunch here as well and enjoyed prompt service and surprisingly good food (fish tacos, chicken wings and fries for the win).

Best of all, you can enjoy complimentary marshmallow toasting at the end of the day.

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, PA

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, PA

3) The Howlers Peak Ropes Course is awesome for kids of all ages.

The large outdoor ropes course was a big hit with our adventurous kids and I loved that they could go at their own paces. Watching their confidence grow with each crossed path and high-flying slide was amazing. Helpful staff members are available to assist when necessary and everyone is safely attached to a climbing harness.

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, PA

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, PA

The main course is for kids (and adults) 48 inches or taller and a smaller ground level course is available for young children.  Be sure to bring sneakers or crocs along for this.

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, PA

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, PA

4) Magiquest is a must!

MagiQuest was definitely the highlight of our trip for the kids. This interactive scavenger hunt combines computer screen stations, enchanted paintings, talking animals, and several fairies, who,  when your wand is pointed at them, will offer clues. The game costs $14.99 and the wands range from $17-$45 depending on the topper. Completing the entire series of games can take days so be sure to agree on time limits in advance. I loved watching kids help each other in the hallways as they searched for clues and swapped status updates. The wands can be reused so be sure to bring them if you visit another Great Wolf Lodge.

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, PA

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, PA

5) Check out the Indoor Activities.

From the 24-hour Northern Lights Arcade, Howly Wood XD Theater rollercoaster, to Ten Paw Alley and Howl at The Moon Glow Golf and the Creation Station, kids can participate in many indoor activities.

Some of these are more hidden than others so be sure to look around or ask directions if you get lost. Check out the Paw Pass if you plan to plan to do several of these paid activities.

Scoops Spa is a great spot for pampering.

Scooops® Kid Spa is a great spot for pampering.

6) Save time for Pampering.

All that swimming can get exhausting so if you can, plan some time for pampering. There are spas for grown-ups and children with a wide array of services. Elements™ Spa Salon is a full-service adult spa with a Zen-like atmosphere offering massages, manicures, pedicures and facials. Scooops® Kid Spa specializes in manicures and pedicures for children 12 and under. The pricing is on the expensive side but if you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion, this is a great place to indulge. Reservations are recommended.

7) Don’t miss the free entertainment!

From storytime with the Great Wolf characters to dance parties, games, yoga, walks and arts and crafts, there are many free activities offered for kids of all ages. Be sure to bring your camera for the character appearances.

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, PA

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, PA

8) Be sure to pack right.

Depending on the time of year, you won’t need much more than swimsuits, cover-ups, water shoes and goggles. Towels and life jackets are provided and shorts and t-shirt are the norm for clothing around the resort.  Leave your fancy clothing home unless you plan to go off property.  A waterproof camera, iPhone cover, personal safe and these water park necessities are always good to bring along. Sunscreen and hats are only necessary if you are visiting in summer. The indoor waterpark is kept at a warm 84-degrees so don’t overdress.

9) Use the resort facilities and waterpark after check-out.

Guests at Great Wolf Lodge check out at 11am but can use all the facilities for the remainder of the day. Store your suitcases in the car and rent a locker for the day if you have time. Pack a pool bag with swim items and a dry bag with a change of clothing to wear home.

10) Choose your room carefully.

Great Wolf Lodge offers a wide range of suites to fit all families and budgets. Standard Family Suites feature two queen beds and a full-size sleeper sofa making them a great choice for families of 4-6.

Other suites feature themed kids sleeping areas with bunk beds, a queen bed and sofa sleeper and other room amenities include fireplaces, Whirlpools and private master bedrooms. We were upgraded to a spacious Majestic Bear Suite which featured a large breakfast bar and patio overlooking the pool. Check out the room floorplans before you book. Each suite at Great Wolf Lodge includes a microwave, mini fridge, coffee maker, hairdryer, iron and ironing board. I recommend bringing along easy to make breakfast items as well as beverages and snacks.

Have you visited a Great Wolf Lodge? Tell me below in the comments.

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We received reduced pricing on our accommodations for review purposes but all opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Must Have Back To School …

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September is fast approaching and that means shopping for back to school supplies. Today I’m sharing my favorite back to school supplies, clothes, snack picks and more ideas for September and beyond.

Must Have Back To School Supplies, Clothes, Snacks and More...

Must Have Back To School Supplies, Clothes, Snacks and More…

Back to School Supplies

Must Have Back To School Supplies, Clothes and Snacks

My daughter’s school sends a list of class supplies but luckily she can choose her own binders and folders. Since she’s into rainbows, she is super excited about the new Avery® and Amy Tangerine® Collection. Kids can choose from file folders and binders in rainbow patterns, black and white designs and other fun options.

Labeling school items is a must for kids of all ages and Mabel’s Labels are our go-to for fashionable and durable labels. Their latest designs include some of my daughter’s favorites like Hello Kitty, unicorns, rainbows, mermaids and emojis. I recommend the Ultimate Back to School Pack for every kid in your family (10% with the coupon code MOMTRENDS10).

If you are always printing out homework, travel itineraries and photos like me, you’ll be excited to hear about the new Epson ET-2750 wireless printer. This cartridge-free printer comes with a two-year supply of ink so kids can print away while saving money and the environment.  Win-win!

In the “hope you’ll never need this” school supply category, pesticide-free lice ridding products are a mom’s best friend. Vamousse’s 15-minute mousse treatment and shampoos will rid you and your family of any unwanted houseguests.

Back to School Clothes

Must Have Back To School Supplies, Clothes, Snacks and More...

Must Have Back To School Supplies, Clothes, Snacks and More…

New clothes are a must for the new school year and Tea Collection has launched a line inspired by the good old United States. The colorful clothes feature unique designs and high-quality fabrics that are comfortable and easy to wash. New this year, tween sizing goes up to 16. My daughter is excited to wear this cute chambray jumper, ruffled top and leggings inspired by New England.

Must Have Back To School Supplies, Clothes and Snacks

For kids who like to share their creativity and inspirational messages with the world, this Chalk of the Town t-shirt (chalk markers included) will be a hit for back to school. My daughter loves to design different shirts to match her outfits. Moms will love how easily the chalkboard erases with water.

Must Have Back To School Supplies, Clothes and Snacks

My daughter and her friends love to design their own T-shirts and I love to see their creative juices flowing. Buy some plain t-shirts, fabric markers and fabric paint and you have an easy after-school craft play date.

Check out my favorite summer and fall shoes for kids.

Back to School Snacks

School snacks are getting easier than ever with individually packed offerings in a variety of healthy treats.

Stonyfield Organic yogurt and smoothies come in a variety of packages making them easy options for lunch boxes and after-school snacks. Their new Snack Packs, Yogurt and Graham Crackers and Yogurt and Pretzels are a healthy option in convenient travel packs.

GoGo Squeez has been in my pantry since my daughter was a toddler. The portable, non-messy and deliciously flavored applesauce squeezies are perfect for school lunch, snacks and travel. Their newest offering, GoGo Squeez Blastz, is geared toward older kids with more “sophisticated” palates and comes in bold, mixed fruit flavors and larger serving sizes.

Larabars are a good all natural snack for the whole family and these mini versions are perfect for a sweet lunchbox treat. I also love that they don’t get crushed when they’ve been in my bag for a day or two.

Back to School Backpacks

A new backpack is a great way to get kids excited about back to school. Now that my daughter is entering fourth grade, she has very specific likes and dislikes.  Here are some of my favorite picks for 2018.

For girls who like to change their looks around, these reversible Chooze backpacks featuring fun patterns and designs are sure to please.

Justice is always a hit with girls and their back-to-school backpacks have something for everyone.  From flipping sequins, personalized styles, unicorns and ombre styles, girls will have a tough time picking just one.I also love this lightweight backpack covered in cactus and succulents.

Don’t forget to stock up on hanging squishies, keychains, toys and hand sanitizers. The more, the merrier!

News You Can Use For Parents

As we all know, today’s technology can feel a bit unsafe for kids and parents too. I attended a Back To School event hosted by Facebook and learned about their newly launched Digital Literacy Library and new Messenger Kids features and parental controls. While my daughter isn’t using Messenger Kids or Facebook yet, the Digital Literacy Library is full of information about online safety, privacy, sharing tips and other topics that I can start talking about now. Kids need to learn how to safely navigate with today’s tech and this is a great starting point for tweens and teens.

In addition, parents need to set good digital examples for children. This fall, several new tools that track time on various apps will certainly help everyone track their online time.

Are you ready for back to school?

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We were gifted some of these items from for review purposes. I attended the #MomTrendsSchool event and received a goody bag. As always, all opinions are my own. This post contains some affiliate links. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Awesome Broadway Shows for …

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Taking kids to New York City means checking out the latest Broadway shows for kids. The Big Apple has a wide variety of theater performances to fit every age and price range so you can bring along the whole family. From toddlers to teens, kids will enjoy these on and off-Broadway favorites.

Awesome Broadway Shows for Kids and Other Great Performances

Awesome Broadway Shows for Kids and Other Great Performances

Best New York City Shows For Little Kids (Preschool to early elementary)

Swedish Cottage Marionette Theater in Central Park

Swedish Cottage Marionette Theater in Central Park

Swedish Cottage Marionette Theater – Nestled away in Central Park, this gem of a Marionette Theater is the perfect place for small kids to see a short performance usually based on a classic children’s tale. We’ve seen favorites such as Jack and The Beanstalk and holiday shows here and our latest trip was to see Neverland: Peter Pan Returns. Kids sit in the front rows with parents on the sides and back so everyone is guaranteed a good seat and after the show, performers demonstrate the Marionettes which is always a hit. Most performances are good for toddlers and up but for Neverland, I would say the sweet spot is four and older.

Gazillion Bubble Show – Little kids love bubbles so its no surprise that this one-hour bubble extravaganza is a family favorite. Kids will love the gigantic soap bubbles, walls of bubbles, helium bubbles and bubbles within bubbles. Add in some special effects (like lasers and strobe lights) and bubble magic and even the grown-ups will be mesmerized. Note: Your kids will beg to have their picture taken in a giant bubble so be prepared to buy the pricey photo. Great for toddlers and up.

Best Broadway Shows For Kids 5 and Up

Awesome Broadway Shows for Kids and Other Great Performances

Awesome Broadway Shows for Kids and Other Great Performances

Frozen: The Broadway Musical – For the first time in forever, Anna and Elsa have hit the Great White Way by storm. Disney’s Broadway version of the popular movie about sisterly love has been updated with a few new songs but the main premise remains the same. The St. James Theater turns into a winter wonderland with falling snow, stunning sets and the adorable Olaf but the phenomenal singing steals the show. Although little princesses will want to see this one, it is best for kids 6 and up.

SpongeBob SquarePants: The Broadway Musical – Who lives in a pineapple under the sea? SpongeBob SquarePants! This surprise runaway hit is popular with kids and adults for good reason…the set, acting, choreography and music are all phenomenal. Think Squidward tap dancing with undersea friends, a very believable sponge and a colorful cast of Bikini Bottom characters running around onstage and in the aisles. If your kids haven’t seen a Broadway show yet, this colorful, confetti-filled extravaganza is a perfect first show. Great for ages 4 and up.

The Lion King – When you mention Broadway shows for kids, this one tops every list. Imagine a bigger than life puppet extravaganza full of imaginative costumes (giant Giraffes, leaping gazelles and majestic lions), amazing music, and unbelievable sets. This award-winning story of Simba, a cub destined to be king of his pride, is sure wow parents and kids at the same time. A good option for a child’s first Broadway show assuming they are familiar with the story. There are a few somewhat scary scenes so I’m recommending for ages 6 and up but younger children are welcome.

Awesome Broadway Shows for Kids and Other Great Performances

Awesome Broadway Shows for Kids and Other Great Performances

Aladdin – A classic Broadway musical is always sure to please and one of my favorite kid-friendly picks is Disney’s Aladdin at the New Amsterdam Theatre. The show features a great mix of dancing, singing, colorful costumes, spectacular sets, funny characters (OMG the Genie!) and witty repartee for the grown-ups. I love that there are no scary parts and that the storyline is easy for little kids to understand. When Jasmine and Aladdin go flying across the stage on the magic carpet, kids of all ages will be wowed. This show is two-hours and 30 minutes with one intermission so plan bathroom breaks accordingly. Tickets are pricey but all seats are good (even in the balcony) just be sure to grab boosters for small kids. If you’re looking for a theater outing with your favorite mom friends (and their kids), this is a great option. Ideal for kids 4 and up.

Best Off-Broadway Shows For Kids 5 and Up

Blue Man Group – This long-running show is perfect for kids (tots to teens) and adults too. My daughter describes this one as “kind of a circus, kind of a magic show and kind of a music show” which pretty much sums up this creative performance. The Blue Man characters, who remain silent and in-character throughout the show, do an amazing job entertaining as they toss cereal into each other’s mouths, interact with the audience, play drums, paint and perform other funny acts. My daughter was giggling throughout the entire show along with the other kids in the audience. The 90-minute show (no intermission) ends with gigantic streams of toilet paper flooding the seats from above so you warn small kids. Some scenes are loud so bring along headsets for sensitive ears. Stay and take pictures with the performers after the show but don’t expect them to chat. You can also catch Blue Man shows in Boston, Chicago, Las Vegas, and Orlando or on their World Tour. Great for kids 5 and up.

Stomp is a favorite off-Broadway show for kids of all ages.

Stomp is a favorite off-Broadway show for kids of all ages.

STOMP – I first saw this show years ago when the East Village was super grungy and I was swinging single. I saw it again with my husband and daughter and it has stood the test of time. Located in the Orpheum Theatre, the one-hour and 45-minute performance (no intermission) is a great option for musical kids. The six-person cast uses rhythm and movements as they turn objects and body parts into musical instruments. There is no complicated storyline to follow and there is plenty of humor so young kids will definitely enjoy. Some parts of the show are very loud so earphones are a good option. You can also see Stomp on tour. Best for ages 4 and up.

Best New York City Shows For Tweens and Teens

Hamilton is the most popular pick among tweens, teens and adults and you cannot go wrong with this show. Getting tickets is tough and pricey and the language is complex so kids need to pay attention. The talented crew wows with their dance moves, rapping, wit and songs. Younger kids will miss the subtle sexual references but older kids will notice. It will definitely help if kids have some background on Hamilton and the American Revolution in advance so consider reading a Hamilton book or two before you go. My daughter has seen it twice and it is still her favorite show. Try to win the digital Hamilton lottery where you can get two tickets for just $20. Best for ages 8 and up as there is some strong language.

Awesome Broadway Shows for Kids and Other Great Performances

Awesome Broadway Shows for Kids and Other Great Performances

School of Rock, The Musical features an incredibly talented cast including several spunky children who play their own instruments. Based on the movie, with music by Andrew Lloyd Weber, this Broadway hit is full of humor, positive messaging and rock and roll. Jokes are geared to adults and children with some funny moments keeping us on the edge of our seats. The positive messages for adults (listen to your children) and children (be true to yourselves) really hits home. This is a great show the whole family will enjoy. Best for ages 7 and up.

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – The world of Harry Potter has finally arrived on Broadway with an epic two-part play. The shows are set two decades after the final chapters of J.K. Rowling’s famed novels and the two plays can be seen on the same day or in two separate showings. These shows are long (2+ hours with a 20-minute intermission) so decide if you will see them back-to-back or separately. This show is popular so book as far in advance as you can. Tip: Make a lunch reservation if you are seeing both shows in one day. Great for Harry Potter fans (who are familiar with the books and movies) ages 8 and up.

Extra Resources for New York City Theater Lovers

Another recommendation for family-friendly (and affordable) programming is the New Victory Theater in Times Square. The shows we’ve seen here have always been unique with some featuring talented performers from around the globe. From acrobats to dance and magic performances, performances never disappoint. In addition, the central venue is gorgeous with a slew of kid-friendly amenities and interactive kids activities. The 2018/19 schedule is here so search by suggested age-range and you’re bound to find something great.

Have questions about a show not listed above?  Check out Petite Seat to keep up on the newest New York City shows for kids of all ages.

Have you seen any of these off-Broadway or Broadway Shows for Kids?  Tell me below in the comments.

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Family Friendly Things to do …

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Remember all the family-friendly things to do in Williamsburg, VA – Part One?  Today, I’m continuing my trip review with the scoop on Jamestown Settlement, Historic Jamestowne, The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown and Busch Gardens which are all great options for a multi-generational getaway.  In addition to Colonial Williamsburg, you will likely want to spend full days in Jamestown/Yorktown and Busch Gardens.

Family Friendly Things to do in Williamsburg, VA, Busch Gardens, Jamestown

Family Friendly Things to do in Williamsburg, VA

Explore Jamestown Settlement

Jamestown Settlement takes visitors back in time to America’s first permanent English colony and I was really surprised how much we all enjoyed our time here. The indoor gallery is extensive and features a comprehensive introduction movie but the real fun is the outside living history areas that featured hands-on demonstrations and recreations of Native American villages.

My daughter loved seeing what life was like for the colonists and Native Americans in those days as she went in and out of tents, dressed up in costumes and helped make tools and weapons.

The fully costumed staff did a great job educating all of us about daily life and were happy to answer any and all questions.

Our favorite part was exploring the three replica ships that brought the English colonists to the area back in 1607.

Learning about the journey and seeing the various accommodations was so interesting to all of us.

Note: free motorized scooters are available if anyone in your party has mobility issues. Tip: Arrive early and plan to spend at least three hours here. Bring a picnic lunch or grab a quick meal in the cafeteria which offers a nice variety of healthy items, kiddie favorites and made-to-order sandwiches and a large seating area.

Visit Historic Jamestowne

We made a quick stop to Historic Jamestowne where Pocahontas and John Smith once lived in the first permanent English settlement in America.

We had a really interesting tour by a Jamestown Rediscovery archeologist who showed us around the James Fort excavation site.

It was especially cool to see the archaeologists excavating in the church and several volunteers were on hand to answer questions and share photos.

Tip: Historic Jamestowne is jointly administered by the National Park Service and Jamestown Rediscovery and kids can earn a Junior Ranger badge here after completing activities in the booklet (sold in the gift shop).

The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown

This indoor/outdoor museum does a great job explaining our nation’s founding starting from the colonial period. The living history museum features a wide range of uniforms, weapons and period artifacts.
There are a few movie options, the best of which is “The Siege of Yorktown.” My daughter enjoyed the interactive exhibits and movies but the outdoor attractions were her favorite.
There is an army encampment, working farm (seasonal) and period houses full of artifacts and games to explore.

We visited these three attractions all in one day and it was a lot. If we had a bit more time, we would have visited added in the Yorktown Battlefield, the site of the last battle of the American Revolutionary War.

Spend a Day at Busch Gardens

Voted the world’s most beautiful theme park, Busch Gardens is a great day trip for families. I really loved the design elements which showcased European icons like Parisian streets, Oktoberfest celebrations and London’s double-decker buses.

If you’ve got small children, the Sesame Street shows and play area are a great option while older kids will enjoy the many thrill rides and play areas. The park is a very manageable size and it is easy enough to navigate around in a circle but be sure to plan your route with meals in mind as some areas have very limited options and seating areas.

The service was particularly slow so definitely have a plan before your group gets hangry. Tip: The park opens in advance of the rides opening so arrive as early as possible to avoid crowds and long parking shuttle waits.

Be sure to read family-friendly things to do in Williamsburg, VA – Part One for details on Colonial Williamsburg.

Have you been?  Tell me your favorite family-friendly things to do in Williamsburg, VA in the comments below.

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We received tickets to Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown for review purposes. As always, all opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Back-To-School Must Haves for …

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This post is sponsored by Babbleboxx on behalf of Justice

It’s crazy hard to believe but my not-so-little globetrotter is headed to fourth grade this fall. With every back-to-school season, we’ve faced decisions about clothing, school supplies and accessories and each year, her opinions become more and more important.

While I sometimes have to veto her decisions (think poor quality, obscene pricing, and plain ugliness), this year I’m thrilled with her back-to-school picks from Justice.

Back to school, backpacks for girls, tween clothing, girls clothing, flip sequin backpack, flip sequin lunchbox, cool lunchbox

Back-to-School Must Haves for Tweens

Justice has all the fashionable girls clothing that tweens want and affordable pricing and positive messaging that moms’ love. Shopping for clothing for girls can lead to meltdowns but Justice really understands their mini-customers, with so many options for girls to piece together outfits that reflect their individuality and fit their busy lifestyles, all with an extra dose of fun.

Backpacks for Girls

The most important back-to-school item is a great backpack and my daughter is super excited to start using this shimmery pink flip sequin initial backpack for fourth grade.

Back-To-School Must Haves for Tweens, Justice, backpacks for girls, girls clothing

Flipping sequins are her current love, the large G makes her feel like it was made especially for her and the pink, aqua, purple (flipping to pink and silver) shades will easily match her entire wardrobe. Since we walk to school, I’m always concerned about her backpack being heavy so I was happy to see the padded back straps.

Back-To-School Must Haves for Tweens, Justice, backpacks for girls, girls clothing

The elasticized side pocket for water bottles is a must-have as well as the spacious interior for books and lunch box. There are also roomy pockets for school supplies and random items like slime and hair clips. She brings a backpack on our travels too so it needs to be sturdy and this one passes the test with solid zippers and strong seams. Oh, and according to my daughter, the pink pompom keychain is awesome.

Stylish Accessories to Keep Girls Organized

My daughter starts the year organized but by winter, her room, backpack and school folders are a mess. We’ve talked about a plan to stay better organized this year since fourth grade is the real deal and these three accessories will be a big help.

Back-To-School Must Haves for Tweens, Justice, backpacks for girls, girls clothing, flip sequins

A matching lunchbox is a chic pick for tweens and this flipping sequin number is sure to please girls and parents alike. My daughter loves the flip sequins and initial design while I love that the interior is easy to wash. Win-win.

Back-To-School Must Haves for Tweens, Justice, backpacks for girls, girls clothing, flip sequins

Pens, pencils, highlighters, rulers and protractors need to stay safe and this clear pencil case with floating sequins offers these items a pretty home. Gotta love the FEARLESS messaging on this too.

Back-To-School Must Haves for Tweens, Justice, backpacks for girls, girls clothing, flip sequins

This matching sequin initial wristlet is perfect for bake-sale money and other small items.

Back-To-School-Fashion

Back-To-School Must Haves for Tweens, Justice, backpacks for girls, girls clothing, flip sequins

Girls can never have enough cute tops and nothing is more comfy for kids and easy to wash for moms as a t-shirt. This colorful girls top features metallic accents, cute summer graphics and funny captions. She styled it with comfy pink shorts trimmed with pom poms and pink heart shades. I love that the sizing is true with a little extra length which is nice because my daughter and her classmates are often sitting on the floor.

Back-To-School Must Haves for Tweens, Justice, backpacks for girls, girls clothing, flip sequins

How fun do these items look together?

Back-To-School Must Haves for Tweens, Justice, backpacks for girls, girls clothing, flip sequins

Just head to Justice for all your back-to-school shopping, throw everything in your backpack and you’re off to fourth grade…

Which is your favorite item?  Tell me below in the comments.

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This is a sponsored post on behalf of Justice through BabbleBoxx. All opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

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