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Vacation or Staycation: The …

June 28, 2016 By admin

If there’s one thing my daughter outgrows more than anything else, it would be shoes. If your kids need some new summer shoes, here are my suggestions for the Best Summer Shoes for Kids at home and away….

Vacation or Staycation: The Best Summer Shoes for Kids. Keen Kids UNEEK shoes are fashionable yet sturdy. UNEEK, Best Shoes for Kids,

Vacation or Staycation: The Best Summer Shoes for Kids. Keen Kids UNEEK shoes are fashionable yet sturdy.

UNEEK by Keen Kids

Looking for some stylish shoes for your mini fashionista? These open air sneakers are sure to please. UNEEK shoes feature a rubber base with a body of colorful interlocking cords so they support like a sneaker but feel like a sandal. I love that they are super lightweight, easy to clean and look as cute with dresses as they do with shorts. The adjustable side tab and easy to tighten cord closure make these a great pick for kids of all ages.  Amusement parks, bike riding and long camp days? These are the perfect choice. Just throw them in the sink with soapy water to clean and they look brand new! They are available in little and big kid sizes as well as a grown up version which I’ve been sporting this summer (so comfy!).

Vacation or Staycation: The Best Summer Shoes for Kids. Stride Rite Phibians are great for water play. Stride Rite, Water Shoes for kids, best Kids sneakers

Vacation or Staycation: The Best Summer Shoes for Kids. Stride Rite Phibians are great for water play.

Made2Play Phibian Sneaker Sandal by Stride Rite

If you’ve got kids who are always in the water (intentional or not) these Phibian sneaker sandals are a really great option for summer travels. Phibians feature a breathable sandal-like upper and an extra-grippy, non-slip bottom making them a sturdy option for active children. The velcro closure makes them easy for children of all ages and the stylish color pairings and super hero styles will definitely please young girls and boys. They go right in the washing machine or sink when dirty and they are quick to air dry making them a great option for camp or away. If your kids like to play in the rain, sprinkler park or mud or if your summer travels include a water park, these are a great choice.

Vacation or Staycation: The Best Summer Shoes for Kids. Salt Water Sandals are perfect for city or beach vacations. Kids Shoes, Travel, Family Travel, Sandals, Salt Water Sandals

Vacation or Staycation: The Best Summer Shoes for Kids. Salt Water Sandals are perfect for city or beach vacations.

Salt Water Sandals

For summer sightseeing trips or walks at home, these classic strappy sandals are a great option that can easily go from day to night. I love the bright colors and chunky sole options for younger kids and the strap and buckle closure which means little fingers can’t easily take these off.  Of course, the flip side to that means you will be helping your kids get these on and off…  I love that these sandals are waterproof and easy to clean making them a great option for beach vacations. They are also available in adult sizes so they whole family can coordinate. Yes, I have a pair of these too…

Vacation or Staycation: The Best Summer Shoes for Kids. Butler Overboots are perfect for rainy weather. Butler Overboots, Kids Shoes, Best Shoes for Kids.

Vacation or Staycation: The Best Summer Shoes for Kids. Butler Overboots are perfect for rainy weather.

Butler Overboots

These adorable light-weight rubber boots easily slip over shoes making them a perfect choice for traveling. Nothing spoils a vacation more than getting caught in a rainstorm (hello wet shoes and socks!) so wearing these galoshes will keep everyone happy.  They are easy for kids to put on and take off (think velcro closure and accordion-style opening) and families will save a lot of time not having to stop and switch back and forth from shoes to traditional rain boots. I especially love the bring colors that will definitely cheer up the most dreary day especially when kids are allowed to puddle jump. If your vacation forecast looks iffy, be sure to take these along.

What shoes do your kids love to wear when traveling?  Tell me below in the comments.

 

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Some of these shoes were gifted for review purposes. This post contains affiliate links. As always, 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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3 CommentsFiled Under: Cool for School, Design, Don't travel without, Fashion, Just for Boys, Just for Girls, playtime, Products I love, reviews, Shoes, Shopping, Summer Travel, Travel Tagged With: Butler Overboots, Footwear, Keen, Kids Fashion, Phibian, Salt Water, Sandals, shoes, Sneakers, Staycation, Stride Rite, summer travel, Travel, UNEEK

Top 5 Splish Splash Rides for …

June 21, 2016 By admin

The only thing more fun than an indoor waterpark is an outdoor waterpark!  If you’re heading out to Long Island this summer, be sure to stop by Splish Splash Waterpark for a family friendly adventure sure to please travelers of all ages.

Top 5 Splish Splash Rides for Families (and coupon)

Top 5 Splish Splash Rides for Families (and coupon)

On our recent visit, my family had so much fun enjoying our favorite rides and tackling some new ones.  Today I’m sharing my Top 5 Splish Splash Rides for Families…

Before you go, be sure to check out my Top 10 Tips for Visiting Splish Splash and use this Splish Splash coupon to save $6 off each ticket.

Top 5 Splish Splash Rides for Families (and coupon), kahuna bay wavepool

Top 5 Splish Splash Rides for Families (and coupon)

1) Kahuna Bay Wavepool

If you and your kids like playing in waves, you won’t want to miss the Kahuna Bay Wavepool. Every ten minutes, the waves start small and finish big (think four foot waves!). Small kids and grandparents can stay in the shallow end while big kids and parents ride the waves making this a great attraction for all families. Life jackets are available and plenty of lifeguards are on hand to be sure everyone stays safe.

Mammoth River is full of twists and turns, splish splash, water park, long island

Mammoth River is full of twists and turns.

2) Mammoth River Raft Ride

Grab a raft (fits up to five people) and the whole family will enjoy an adventurous twisting tube slide ride. No swim skills are necessary for this ride making it a great option for families with young kids (minimum 36″). Prepare to get splashed along the way and at the end of the ride.

More adventurous families will enjoy Bootleggers's Run at Splish Splash. Water park, long island, family fun, splish splash

More adventurous families will enjoy Bootleggers’s Run at Splish Splash.

3) Bootlegger’s Run

Think roller coaster meets water slide for this one! The four-person family-friendly raft goes uphill using new generation hydromagnetic technology and flies down like a roller coaster without rails. This one features a combination of open and closed tubes making it a great pick for kids who are scared of dark rides.

The Lazy River at Splish Splash is the perfect spot for families to relax. Water Park. Best Rides for Families, Long Island

The Lazy River at Splish Splash is the perfect spot for families to relax.

4) Lazy River

Families will love this relaxing tube ride on the gentle current of a beautifully landscaped river. Along the way you’ll find spraying fountains to cool you off.  All family members can participate in this one but if you want to keep your hair dry, you’ll have to duck around some of the fountain areas.

The Battle of Mutiny Bay is a great option for family fun. Splish Splash, Water Park, Long Island

The Battle of Mutiny Bay is a great option for family fun.

5) The Battle of Mutiny Bay

This kind of interactive water attraction was completely new to my family and we loved it. Up to four people can ride in the pirate ship which features water spraying cannons in every seat. As the ride circles around Mutiny Bay, guests engage in the largest water gun fight imaginable as the landlubbers squirt the “pirates” from large water cannons. Split your family up and see which team gets soaked.

Ready to visit? Use this Splish Splash Coupon to save $6 off the gate price. FYI, on our visit some attractions were closed so be sure to call ahead if there is a ride you don’t want to miss out on.

Have you been to Splish Splash Waterpark? Tell me your favorite attraction in the comments below…

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Special thanks to Splish Splash for inviting us to visit. As always, 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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10 CommentsFiled Under: Amusement Park, Day Trip, Just for Boys, Just for Fun, Just for Girls, Just for Kids, Multi-generational travel, New York, playtime, Staycation, Travel, United States, Where To Go Tagged With: amusement park, Lazy River, Long Island, New York, Raft rides, Splish Splash, Water Park

Top 10 Things To Do at Crayola …

April 7, 2016 By admin

We recently took a fun-filled road trip to Pennsylvania (more to come!) and one of the highlights of our getaway was a day at the Crayola Experience in Easton, PA. If you’re looking for an indoor retreat where kids (and adults) can unleash their creativity, this is a great option. Read on for more scoop and a Crayola Experience discount.

Top 10 Things To Do at Crayola Experience, Easton, PA

Top 10 Things To Do at Crayola Experience, Easton, PA (and ticket discount!)

You can easily spend the day at Crayola Experience. Grab lunch in the cafe or head outside to one of the nearby restaurants like kid-friendly Cheeburger Cheeburger.  The website features an interactive map so planning your trip is a breeze. Here’s my list of the Top 10 Things to Do at Crayola Experience, Easton, PA.

Start with the live theater Crayon Factory show at Crayola Experience.

Start with the live theater Crayon Factory show at Crayola Experience.

1) Start with the live theater Crayon Factory show. The best way to get oriented is to start with a crayon making lesson starring animated crayons and Crayola’s resident Crayonologist. As you leave, be sure to pick up your freshly made crayon. 

Make a personalized crayon at Wrap it Up!

Make a personalized crayon at Wrap it Up!

2) Make a personalized crayon at Wrap it Up! One of the all-time favorite exhibits, Wrap it Up! allows guests to choose a crayon color and make a personalized label.  Take your crayon and label to the special wrap machine and voila, a customized crayon is born! These make great souvenirs for teachers and classmates. Note: A token (included with admission) is required.

The Cafe Stage show showcases the history and science behind different Crayola products.

The Cafe Stage show showcases the history and science behind different Crayola products.

3) Check out the Cafe Stage show. Enjoy a snack and take in a show while you learn about the history and science behind different Crayola products. This show was really cute and my daughter loved being selected to talk about gravity while playing with Silly Putty.  If you’re looking to steal away from the crowds, this show is sure to please.

Create your own animated figures on the easy-to-use touch screens.

Create your own animated figures on the easy-to-use Art Alive touch screens.

4) Play in the Art Alive! animation room.  Kids and adults will love creating their own animated figures on the easy-to-use touch screens.  When you’re done, watch them float across the room on the animation screen.

Make a personalized puzzle at the Crayola Experience in Easton, PA.

Make a personalized puzzle at the Crayola Experience in Easton, PA.

5) Make a puzzle at Puzzle It! Color a drawing and use the special kid-powered puzzle press cutting machine to turn your creation into a six or 12-piece cardboard puzzle. Mail the pieces to a pen pal or grandparent and you’ll make their day. There are other crafty projects in this area with themes that change year-round.

Make one-of-a-kind crayon spin-art creations at Crayola Experience.

Make one-of-a-kind crayon spin-art creations at Crayola Experience.

6) Don’t miss the crayon drip art. Located on the fourth floor, the drip art area is the place to make one-of-a-kind crayon spin-art creations.  Select your crayon colors and spin the wheel fast or slow to change the patterns.  This is a favorite for kids and adults.

Take a break to play in the bright two-story playground.

Take a break to play in the bright two-story playground.

7) Take a break to play. Check out the bright two-story playground with a large climbing structure or Toddler Town area which features a colorful pegboard and giant ball maze.

Go back in time as you learn about Crayola's history.

Go back in time as you learn about Crayola’s history.

8) Take a stroll through crayon memory lane.  See how the crayon colors and names have evolved over the years. Don’t miss the vintage advertisements and memorabilia throughout the museum.

The Crayola Experience gift shop offers a great selection of gifts and Crayola memorabilia.

The Crayola Experience gift shop offers a great selection of gifts and Crayola memorabilia.

9) Shop till you drop. The gift shop is huge with a great selection of gifts and Crayola memorabilia.  You can create custom boxes of markers or crayons, make shirts customized with your drawings, purchase an endless supply of craft supplies and more.

The Crayola Experience features an array of colorful backdrops.

The Crayola Experience features an array of colorful backdrops.

10) Take in the surroundings.  From gigantic crayon and marker sculptures outside the lobby to colorful murals and crayon pathways, be sure to take some colorful outdoor pics of your kids running around.

There are so many other fun things to do so be sure to check out my full Crayola Experience review from our first visit. Planning a visit, book your ticket in advance with this Crayola Experience discount and save $4 per ticket.

Have you ever been to the Crayola Experience? Tell me in the comments below.

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Special thanks to Crayola Experience for a providing us with complimentary tickets. As always, 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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1 CommentFiled Under: crafty, Day Trip, DIY, Just for Boys, Just for Fun, Just for Girls, Just for Kids, Museums, Pennsylvania, playtime, reviews, Road Trip, Staycation, Travel, Travel Tips, United States, Where To Go Tagged With: Crayola, Crayola Experience, Crayola Factory, Crayons, diy, Family Travel, Things to do with kids

Spotlight on Ireland: The …

March 17, 2016 By admin

In honor of Saint Patrick’s Day, I’m talking about The Irish Fairy Door, one of Ireland’s most family friendly traditions that just recently launched here in America. Read on to learn more and find out how you can win your very own.

Spotlight on Ireland: The Irish Fairy Door and Giveaway

Spotlight on Ireland: The Irish Fairy Door and Giveaway

I am always intrigued by cultural traditions around the world so when The Irish Fairy Door Company invited me to their New York City launch party I quickly said, “Yes.” As we munched on Irish fare, I learned that Irish Fairy Doors are all the rage with kids in Ireland and England where they encourage kids to let their imaginations run wild as they leave notes and pictures for each other and decorate their surroundings.

Spotlight on Ireland: The Irish Fairy Door and Giveaway

Spotlight on Ireland: The Irish Fairy Door and Giveaway

Spotlight on Ireland: The Irish Fairy Door and Giveaway

Spotlight on Ireland: The Irish Fairy Door and Giveaway

Each Irish Fairy Door set contains a beautifully crafted wooden door (in varying colors and styles), a Fairy Welcome Guide, a Family/Fairy Lease Agreement, a fairy notepad, a tiny glass bottle with a key and a special code to register your fairy’s name online. The welcome guide explains how everything works. You basically decide on a spot for the door, choose your fairy name and sign the lease agreement.  This humorous agreement gives kids a nice sense of easy-to-handle responsibility (who is in charge of food, laundry, decor, etc.) as it outlines who is responsible for what. Since my daughter has been asking for a pet, I couldn’t wait to see how she would handle her fairy responsibilities…

Spotlight on Ireland: The Irish Fairy Door and Giveaway

Spotlight on Ireland: The Irish Fairy Door and Giveaway

I positioned the door in her bedroom and waited for her to notice after school. It looked cute but I couldn’t help but wonder, would my city savvy six-year old actually believe in magical fairies. Well, she noticed it right away and started shooting off questions about fairies… We read the book together, decided on a name (Lola) and signed the contract. She went right to work drawing pictures and writing to Lola so yes, she really did believe. That night, the key disappeared and Lola arrived. Lola responded to my daughter’s note and even left some fairy dust…

Spotlight on Ireland: The Irish Fairy Door and Giveaway

Spotlight on Ireland: The Irish Fairy Door and Giveaway

I love anything that encourages free thinking and creativity but when it also encourages my daughter to practice her handwriting, I’m really sold. If you’re looking for a fun surprise for any girl or boy, this would make a great gift.

In celebration of their US launch, The Irish Fairy Door Company has partnered with The Starlight Children’s Foundation by donating Irish Fairy Doors to Starlight community partners.

Ready to win?  The Irish Fairy Door Company is partnering with Globetrotting Mommy and one lucky reader will win their very own Irish Fairy Door!

To enter please leave a blog post comment below – Which door is your favorite?

For additional entries please leave separate comments for each:

  1. Like Globetrotting Mommy on Facebook
  2. Follow Globetrotting Mommy on Instagram
  3. Follow Globetrotting Mommy on Twitter
  4. Follow Globetrotting Mommy on Snapchat (GlobetrotMommy)

This giveaway ends at midnight EST on Friday, April 1.

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Thanks to the Irish Fairy Door Company for inviting me to the NYC launch party and providing me with product to review. As always, all opinions are mine. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

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11 CommentsFiled Under: Around the World, Decor, Great Gifts, Holidays and Celebrations, Ireland, Just for Boys, Just for Fun, Just for Girls, multicultural, playtime, reviews, Toys Tagged With: Fairies, Imagination, Ireland, Irish Fairy Door, playtime, The Irish Fairy Door Company

Exploring Central Park With …

March 2, 2016 By admin

Spring has finally sprung here in NYC and that means its time to go play outside! One of my favorite spots for families with kids of all ages is Central Park and springtime is one of the best times to plan a visit.

Exploring Central Park With Kids, NYC, Family Travel, Globetrotting Mommy

Exploring Central Park With Kids

Exploring Central Park with kids is especially fun when the park is in full bloom. After our long dreary winters, it is a treat to see green grass and colorful flowers and kids will love running around taking in all the fresh air and expansive lawns.

Pack a picnic, grab a frisbee and plan to spend a few hours (or a whole day) exploring Central Park. Here are some of my favorite springtime activities for families:

  • Visit one of the many playgrounds
  • Climb a statue or two (Alice in Wonderland is my fave)
  • Stop at the Central Park Zoo (and Children’s Zoo)
  • Take a spin on the Central Park Carousel
  • Go fly a kite
  • Visit Victorian Gardens (opening Memorial Day weekend!)
  • Get your caricature done
  • Visit Bethesda Fountain
  • Rent a row boat
  • Race boats at Conservatory Water
  • Check out a story time
  • Stop for lunch at the Loeb Boathouse
  • See a free Shakespeare in the Park performance (starting in May)

Check out my Tips for Central Park with Kids in Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall story on TravelMamas.com for more details and be sure to visit the Central Park event calendar before you visit.

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1 CommentFiled Under: Amusement Park, Just for Boys, Just for Dads, Just for Fun, Just for Girls, Just for Kids, Just for Moms, New York, playtime, Staycation, United States, Where To Go Tagged With: Central Park, Central Park Zoo, Family Travel, New York, NYC, Springtime, Victorian Gardens

Toys That Travel: Crayola …

November 24, 2015 By admin

Home or away for the upcoming holidays? Crayola’s Cling Creator will keep kids busy as they create their own holiday inspired window decorations perfect for decorating houses, hotel rooms and more. Read on for my Crayola Cling Creator review and enter to win one of your own along with a $50 gift card!

Toys That Travel: Crayola Cling Creator Review and Giveaway, Toy Review, Crayola, DIY, Crafts, Kids

Toys That Travel: Crayola Cling Creator Review and Giveaway

As you know, we’re big fans of STEM inspired toys so I was excited to see that Crayola’s Cling Creator combines creativity with science lab techniques. My daughter got right to work setting up all the tubes, molds and instruments in the caddy which was perfect for keeping things organized.

Toys That Travel: Crayola Cling Creator Review and Giveaway, Toy Review, Crayola, DIY, Crafts, Kids

Toys That Travel: Crayola Cling Creator Review and Giveaway

The kit contains everything you need to make colorful cling creations that stick to (and easily peel off from) windows, mirrors and other flat, smooth surfaces. You can use the molds or create new designs by making molds with the included clay. You can even add your own glitter to the designs if you’re feeling festive.

Toys That Travel: Crayola Cling Creator Review and Giveaway, Toy Review, Crayola, DIY, Crafts, Kids

Toys That Travel: Crayola Cling Creator Review and Giveaway

The label says ages 8+ but my six-year old daughter was able follow the directions with some guidance. I mentally prepared for a mess but I was happily surprised to see how easy she was able to squeeze the correct ratio of color and firming solution into the labeled mixing pots and mix them in the kid-friendly mixing chamber.

Toys That Travel: Crayola Cling Creator Review and Giveaway, Toy Review, Crayola, DIY, Crafts, Kids

Toys That Travel: Crayola Cling Creator Review and Giveaway

We were hoping to make some fall-inspired designs to bring along on a road-trip to grandma’s house for Thanksgiving but had some challenges perfecting our leaf and pumpkin molds out of the clay. I would definitely recommend younger kids stick with the enclosed molds, especially since the gel sets rather quickly. Also, if you are planning to mix colors, start with just a few drops of the dark color and add the lighter color until you get the shade you want.

Toys That Travel: Crayola Cling Creator Review and Giveaway, Toy Review, Crayola, DIY, Crafts, Kids

Toys That Travel: Crayola Cling Creator Review and Giveaway

After 15 minutes, the gel solidifies and your window clings are ready to go. Volia!

Toys That Travel: Crayola Cling Creator Review and Giveaway, Toy Review, Crayola, DIY, Crafts, Kids

Toys That Travel: Crayola Cling Creator Review and Giveaway

We ended up with an assortment of fun, colorful designs…

Toys That Travel: Crayola Cling Creator Review and Giveaway, Toy Review, Crayola, DIY, Crafts, Kids

Toys That Travel: Crayola Cling Creator Review and Giveaway

The kit makes approximately 20 clings and refill packs are sold separately. If you and your kids love DIY crafty projects, the Crayola Cling Creator will make a great addition to your craft closet.

Ready to win a Crayola Cling Creator and a $50 gift card?

To enter please leave a blog post comment – Who do you know who would love this toy?

For additional entries, please leave separate comments for each of these four options:

  1. Like Globetrotting Mommy on Facebook
  2. Follow Globetrotting Mommy on Instagram
  3. Like TravelMommy on Twitter
  4. Subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy

This giveaway is open to US residents and will run until midnight EST Friday December 4, 2015.

If you’re looking for a Crayola inspired road trip, check out my review of the Crayola Experience in Easton, Pennsylvania.

Congratulations to Heather Johnson!!

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I was not compensated for this post but the Crayola Cling Creator, gift card, information and additional gift pack have been provided by Crayola. As always, 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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32 CommentsFiled Under: crafty, Design, DIY, DIY Toys, Giveaway, Great Gifts, Just for Boys, Just for Fun, Just for Girls, playtime, Products I love, reviews, Toys Tagged With: arts and crafts, Crafts, Crayola, diy, diy toys, giveaway, toys

Bratz Dolls Encourage Girls to …

September 1, 2015 By admin

One of the best times of my life was spent studying abroad in Rome during my junior year of college. I have such great memories of visiting the famed sights, eating tons of gelato (pizza too!) and living among the locals.  When I heard that Bratz was reintroducing a new doll collection featuring a group of five study abroad characters, I couldn’t wait to check them out with my daughter.

Bratz Dolls Encourage Girls to Travel the Globe with New Study Abroad Collection

Bratz Dolls Encourage Girls to Travel the Globe with New Study Abroad Collection

When I took Raya, the study abroad Mexico doll, out of her box, my five-year old daughter was immediately drawn to all her fun accessories. Raya comes with two trendy outfits that can be mixed and matched, jewelry, hair accessories, a tote bag, cactus and piñata key ring along with a roller board suitcase with stickers for kids to decorate.

Bratz Dolls Encourage Girls to Travel the Globe with New Study Abroad Collection

Bratz Dolls Encourage Girls to Travel the Globe with New Study Abroad Collection

Bratz Dolls Encourage Girls to Travel the Globe with New Study Abroad Collection

Bratz Dolls Encourage Girls to Travel the Globe with New Study Abroad Collection

Dolls have come a long way since I was a kid and I loved all the attention to details on the outfits as well as the great hair that doesn’t immediately get knotty. I also loved that these dolls will expose young girls to different cultures through play. I also hope these dolls will encourage young women to study overseas as study abroad is on the decline.

The Bratz Study Abroad collection features Raya and the following dolls (pictured above) who all come with two outfits, jewelry and suitcases:

Cloe is just back from China with a teapot and teacup, a ying yang purse, a fortune cookie key ring.

Jade came back from studying in Russia with nesting dolls and a fabergé egg key ring.

Sasha returned from Britain with Union Jack purse, teacup and scones and a bunny bodyguard key ring.

Yasmin is back from Brazil with colorful sunglasses and a pineapple key ring.

In addition to the new Study Abroad dolls, Bratz revamped their entire line with a new look and feel that embodies the interests, passions and personalities of the modern day girl. The core collections are available now at Target, Toys”R”Us and Walmart stores nationwide.

I think these would make a great back-to-school gift for any globetrotting girl.

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1 CommentFiled Under: Around the World, Cool for School, Great Gifts, Just for Fun, Just for Girls, Mexico, multicultural, playtime, Products I love, reviews, Teen Travel, Travel, United Kingdom Tagged With: Bratz, Brazil, Britain, China, dolls, girls, Mexico, Russia, study abroad, toys

Back-to-School Must Haves for …

August 19, 2015 By admin

Depending on where you live, kids go back-to-school sometime between now and early September. I love stocking up on back-to-school supplies and I especially love when my daughter can use these items on our travels.

Here are my favorite Back-to-School Must Haves for Home and Away…

Back to school, kids, labels, Mabel's Labels, travel, must haves

Back-to-School Must Haves for Home and Away – Mabel’s Labels

Personalized Labels – If you didn’t already order these for summer camp, now is the time to stock up. I pretty much label everything my daughter takes to school (and on trips) like food and drink containers, school supplies, shoes, coats, hats, etc. Mabel’s Labels are the only ones that survive my super hot dishwasher so they’re my top pick. The Stylish Scholars Combo in the quatrefoil pattern was my opportunity to update some of our old kiddie styles with a more sophisticated look for first grade.

Back to school, snacks, must haves, Earth's Best, Gogo Squeez, Travel, kids

Back-to-School Must Haves for Home and Away – Portable Snacks

Easy to Serve Snacks – For lunch boxes and road trips, easy to serve snacks are a must have. Depending on the ages and taste preferences of your kids, I recommend squeezy fruit pouches like GoGo Squeez, individually wrapped multi-grain snacks from Ella’s Kitchen and dried fruit like Crispy Fruit from Crispy Green for exotic palates and Earth’s Best freeze dried fruit snacks for toddlers. I also keep snack bars, fruit leathers and nuts on hand at home and away.

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Back-to-School Must Haves for Home and Away – Colored Pencils

Non-Messy School Supplies – I love stocking up on school supplies knowing that the non-messy items will be great to also use on car or plane trips. This year my daughter is really into writing and coloring and I found the most gorgeous colored pencil sets from eeBoo featuring metallic, watercolor and fluorescent pencils. These are so nicely packaged (and affordable) you’ll want to get a set for everyone you know. Just add the Secret Garden: An Inky Treasure Hunt and Coloring Book for older kids (and adults!) and you’ve got a great gift idea.

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Back-to-School Must Haves for Home and Away – Activity Books

Educational Activity Books – As an after school surprise, I like to leave an activity book out with scissors, markers and glue. When we travel, I like to just bring along activity books that include stickers like the new Lonely Planet Kids series that includes Adventures in Famous Places, Adventures in Noisy Places, Adventures in Smelly Places and other fun titles. These are a great way to teach elementary age school kids about history and geography while holding their interest with funny facts.

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Back-to-School Must Haves for Home and Away – backpack

Sturdy and Stylish Backpack – Backpacks are a must for school and traveling. Last year my daughter got a Backpack Jr. from Garnet Hill Kids and this year she has a more fashion forward Kayla backpack from Matilda Jane Clothing.  I’ve previously written about the coolest backpacks for back to school if you need more inspiration. Be sure kids can open and close buckles and zippers on their own before school starts.

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Back-to-School Must Haves for Home and Away – tablets

Kid Friendly Tablets – Older kids bring their tablets to school but kids of all ages use them when traveling. My daughter loves the LeapPad3 when we travel by car and I love that she can use it without needing help so I can focus on driving. For plane rides and long trips, I’ll bring out our latest addition, the Amazon Fire HD 6 kids edition which comes in its own kid-proof case and is great for watching movies and shows, taking photos and videos and playing apps.

What are your favorite back-to-school must haves?

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I received some of these items for review but 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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1 CommentFiled Under: Airplane, apps, Books, Cool for School, Don't travel without, Electronics and Gadgets, Fashion, Food and Drink, Great Gifts, Just for Boys, Just for Fun, Just for Girls, Just for Kids, Packing, playtime, Products I love, Road Trip, Travel Tagged With: Activity book, back-to-school, backpack, Colored Pencils, Earth's Best, eeBoo, GoGo Squeez, Healthy Snacks, kid friendly snacks, kid friendly tablets, Lonely Planet Kids, Mabel's Labels, Travel, travel activities

Five Beach Must Haves for …

July 16, 2015 By admin

Beach trips with kids are way different from beach trips without kids. Your days of relaxing in the sand with a good book may be over (for now) but here are Five Beach Must Haves for Families that will help you keep your sanity or at least help keep the sand out of your sandwich…

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Five Beach Must Haves for Families

1) I’m the kind of person who likes to keep the sand off my beach blanket. While I can’t control wet sandy kid feet, these BeachTacs stakes are great for keeping my blankets and towels securely in the sand. The set includes four stakes, one of which doubles as a cup holder!  You’re welcome. If you want to keep sand out of your picnic food and drinks, you’ll want these.

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Five Beach Must Haves for Families

2) You can never have too many beach pails and thanks to clever folks at Packable Pails, you can always pack a few extras.  These colorful (Starfish Orange, Aquatic Aqua, Sunshine Yellow and Paradise Pink, oh my!) full-size pails feature a collapsable design so they fold down to just two inches deep.  Whether you’re building sand castles, shell collecting or carrying around water balloons, these pails are a really great option for city dwellers, day trippers and vacationers alike.

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Five Beach Must Haves for Families

3) Kids love to run around in the sand but what happens when the sand is super hot or full of rocks and shells? Protect little toes with these Sun Smarties Sand and Water Socks. One of my very best mommy friends has a toddler who won’t go in the sand without these and I think they’re also great for kids who freak out at the thought of stepping on jelly fish…this may or may not apply to my daughter…

 beach must haves, beach, kids, beach socks, beach with kids

Five Beach Must Haves for Families

4) For windy beach days, towel clips are a must.  There is nothing worse than a dripping wet kid coming back to find that their towel is covered in sand. Avoid the potential meltdown and attach your towels to your beach chairs. I like Boca Towel Clips which come in adorable sets of two (think animals, flip flops, and sunglasses).

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Five Beach Must Haves for Families

5) Do you or your kids need to be plugged in even at the beach?  Check out ECase’s waterproof electronics cases for phones and tablets. The touchscreens will work through the clear covers making them a great option for wet, sandy fingers.  These are also great for everyday sticky kid fingers too.

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Five Beach Must Haves for Families

For more beach must haves like sunscreen, towels, swimwear, toys, totes and picnic bags, check out my Top 10 Must-Haves for a Beach Getaway With Kids.

Do you have plans for a beach getaway this summer??

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Leave a CommentFiled Under: beach, Day Trip, Design, Don't travel without, Electronics and Gadgets, Just for Boys, Just for Dads, Just for Girls, Just for Kids, Just for Moms, playtime, Products I love, Staycation, Travel, Travel Tips Tagged With: Beach Must Haves, BeachTacs, electronics cases, Family Travel, kids, Packable Pails, towel clips, Water Socks, waterproof

Globetrotting Girls Alert: The …

July 9, 2015 By admin

My daughter’s bedroom features a collection of dolls from around the world garnered from our travels, kind friends and family (thanks Uncle Burt!).

Land of Nod, Girls, Dolls, Dolls of the World, Around the world, Toys, Kids, Travel, Decor, International Dolls

Globetrotting Girls Alert: Land of Nod’s New Dolls of The World

If you’re looking for a super cute way to decorate your daughter’s bedroom or playroom, look no further than The Land of Nod’s new Dolls of the World series.

Land of Nod, Girls, Dolls, Dolls of the World, Around the world, Toys, Kids, Travel, Decor

Globetrotting Girls Alert: Land of Nod’s New Dolls of The World

The 13″ dolls feature traditional clothing and hairstyles from their native country and they are just adorable.  Little ones will love seeing how people around the world play dress-up without flying international. The grouping includes five cultures: German, Spanish, Japanese, Russian and Dutch. Check them out:

Land of Nod, Girls, Dolls, Dolls of the World, Around the world, Toys, Kids, Travel, Decor, German, Germany, International Dolls

Globetrotting Girls Alert: Land of Nod’s New Dolls of The World

Land of Nod, Girls, Dolls, Dolls of the World, Around the world, Toys, Kids, Travel, Decor, Spain, Spanish, International Dolls

Globetrotting Girls Alert: Land of Nod’s New Dolls of The World

Land of Nod, Girls, Dolls, Dolls of the World, Around the world, Toys, Kids, Travel, Decor, Japan, Japanese, International Dolls

Globetrotting Girls Alert: Land of Nod’s New Dolls of The World

Land of Nod, Girls, Dolls, Dolls of the World, Around the world, Toys, Kids, Travel, Decor, Russia, Russian, International Dolls

Globetrotting Girls Alert: Land of Nod’s New Dolls of The World

Land of Nod, Girls, Dolls, Dolls of the World, Around the world, Toys, Kids, Travel, Decor, Dutch, Holland, International Dolls

Globetrotting Girls Alert: Land of Nod’s New Dolls of The World

I think these would be super cute for a nursery, bedroom or playroom. Which one is your favorite?

Be sure to follow my Pinterest Fun nursery and kids room ideas board for more decorating ideas and also check out my picks for a Safari themed nursery.

 

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Leave a CommentFiled Under: Around the World, baby nursery, Design, Great Gifts, Japan, Just for Fun, Just for Girls, playtime, Spain, Sweden, Toys Tagged With: Around the World, collectible dolls, dolls, Land of Nod, nursery decor

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Hi, I’m Lyla! I’ve been globetrotting with my husband, daughter, extended family, and girlfriends for years. I share travel tips, destination guides, and adventures that inspire women 40+ to explore the world. Globetrotting Mommy — and beyond!

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