Sara's Toy Box

Hey There.... Not Missing, Just Regrouping

2011-07-18T19:42:00.000-04:00

Hello! Thanks for hanging in there! I started working full time last summer(sometimes more than full time), and it was getting hard to keep up with the blog. I was exhausted and needed a break.

Since starting school, the way the girls spend their time has changed. Arielle and Linnea have strong interests now and I it's my job to encourage those interests, even if sometimes I end up buying products that are plastic or made in China. So, the the blog is going to adapt, but I hope to bring you plenty of product reviews, projects, and play ideas.

I'm going to try for weekly posts. In addition, I will be putting together some PDF's with additional projects. I'm not quite sure how I'll be making these available yet, but stay tuned.

Here are some preview pictures:

See you soon!

A barn for your animals and 25% off at Rosie Hippo

2010-12-30T20:55:00.001-05:00

First of all, if you have Christmas money to spend, Rosie Hippo still has 25% off all toys through January 1. Even better, Rosie Hippo is supporting RoomtoGrow.org by donating one toy to a child born into poverty for each order over $100; however, this ends at midnight December 31. A great opportunity to stock up for birthdays.

Now to the toy review......

Creche or Little Barn ($40.00)

I have been admiring this wooden toy barn for a long time and was so happy to be able to review this toy. Earlier this month, my children had seen the play "Charlotte's Web" at our local high school and they were having fun playing "pig on the farm" with their Holztiger animals. The barn reminded me of the set of the play.

This was supposed to be a pre-Holiday review. Unfortunately, poor barn went to my old address (oops!) and arrived a few days after Christmas. I apologize profusely if anyone is saying "Darn! That would have been the perfect gift!" But, birthdays, Valentine's Day, Easter, feeling down, and snow are all good gift giving occasions.

Santa loves to bring us Holztiger, so the new animals were happy to have a new home. In fact, here are the animal families all lined to ask Santa to bring them a new barn....

I have to laugh because we spent a lot of time at the mall in a very similar line.

So the happy animals got their new barn and the girls did play "Charlotte's Web". I dug up a plastic Halloween spider to be Charlotte.

So, Wilbur and Charlotte spent some quiet time together while Arielle dug out the rest of the farm animals.

They all agreed, it is a nice barn. The wood is smooth. It's easy for children to get their hands in.

Look, Fern is a princess!

And, everyone played nicely together.

The barn arrives packed flat and does require some easy assembly - but, a child can do it. There are no screws or nails, so if you are short on storage space, it quickly comes apart for storage. But, it would also look really cute set up on a dresser or shelf.

There is an optional star, so it can be used for nativity scenes (or to hold a rooster). It would be adorable with dollhouse dolls.

I know this barn will be used a lot. Thank you, Rosie Hippo. And, everyone else, check out the sale and help a good cause.

Wonderworld Shape Sorter

2010-12-15T11:49:00.002-05:00

This month we reviewed the Wonderworld Waggy Garden Shape Sorter. This is not my first shape sorter, my son had several when he was a toddler. Some we still have minus a few pieces. However, I honestly absolutely love this Wonderworld shape sorter. I think it is really cute, super easy to use, and a toy that is so well made it will be able to grow with my toddler.

This shape sorter is rated 18 months and up. Princess P is 16 months old, and our special needs sweetheart. She sustained a birth injury and had a rough first year, so we are always looking for great developmental toys that will grow with her. Even at 16 months old she truly enjoyed this toy, and from a therapeutic perspective it addresses many areas of development.

The cuteness factor is also an important one, I mean tiny little bugs? So very cute. I think this is definitely the best looking shape sorter out there. You have a bee triangle, a ladybug square, a snail half circle and a caterpillar circle.

My favorite feature is the elastic bands on the bottom of the sorter, a perfect way to remove the shapes, even accessible to little hands.

P hasn't quite gotten the idea yet, and kept trying to get the shapes out through the sides. :)

Big brother Q just had to get in on the fun, taking pride in showing P something he had mastered.

even the taste test passed muster

Another great feature is the little bugs on the side of the sorter that live on a zig zag track. P loved playing with them, and they are great for refining fine motor skills!

The Wonderworld Waggy Garden Nature Themed Shape Discovery and Play set is available at Toys and Games Online for $23.00. (a 23% savings over SRP) I would recommend this toy for any toddler, from 12-36 months.

Toys and Games Online has generously agreed to a $25 give away! Go to their site and pick your favorite toddler toy, and mention it in the comments. We will draw a winner in a week. Good luck!

Last Day - Jingle Bells for Jennic Auction

2010-12-07T11:16:00.001-05:00

Just a reminder: Bidding ends sometime in the wee hours of tomorrow morning and we've got lots of great holiday gifts. Check out Violet, a Bamboletta Doll.

There are many other fun toys. Our sponsors include:

A Toy Garden
Auntie Jill
Baby's Toy Emporium
Bagnall Woodworks
Bamboletta Dolls
Bella Luna Toys
Blue Orange Games
BoomBoom Cards
Chalais Associates
Challenge & Fun
Charlie Hope
Down To Earth Toys
Ecoleeko
Ectrophy Science
Franklin Goose
Green Toys Inc
Haba USA
Hazelnut Kids
Hip Mountain Mama
KangarooBoo
Kiddo Tags
Lady Madonna Pottery
Magic Cabin
Marci Davis
Mary's Soft Dough
New Chapter
Nielsen's Trading
Pax Baby
Plan Toys USA
Polkadot Patch Boutique
Rosie Hippo
S-Renee Designs
Sarah's Silks
Stubby Pencil Studio
The Backyard Armory
Willow Baus
Wood Toy Shop LLC
Yubo Lunchboxes

Captain Jack's Venture Ship

2010-12-02T10:55:00.000-05:00

My baby boy turned 4 last week and we had a swashbuckling Pirate Party to celebrate. What 4 year old boys doesn't love pirates? Furthermore, what group of preschoolers doesn't love a costume party? We had a grand old time celebrating, with dozens of little pirates running amok. Q's big gift for his birthday, and the hands down favorite toy of the party, was Captain Jack's Venture ship.

This is a large and well made toy by any standard. It took my husband about an hour to assemble, with minimal outbursts. What I did not realize when I ordered this gift, is what an lifelike replica of a ship it would be. The Venture Ship has working sails, a plank that can be put out if one of the pirates steps out of line, cannons that move around actually fire little cannonball sticks! The base of the ship comes out and you can store items in the hold. It is truly incredible. There is even a working captain's wheel and a crows nest to post your lookout.

This toy provides hours of imaginative entertainment in our house. Frankly, I am not sure who enjoys it more, Q or his Daddy. The ship was listed as ages 4 and up. I would say that is a little generous. I think 5 and up would have been better. My 4 year old loves it, to be sure, but really needs an adult to play with him. The sails are a bit tricky, and when they come apart they definitely take an adult to re-rig. We had this out on the play table during our pirate party, and it took my husband another hour to fix all the nets and sails after the kids went home. The kids didn't care, and had to be dragged away just to have cake.

One of my favorite features of the ship is that the whole thing is on wheels. We take it down and pretend the living room is the ocean and steer the ship through the crashing waves. Even my one year old gets in on the action crawling after the ship and pushing it around. She is fascinated by the nets on the side and likes to chase after the boat and snap the nets.

The Captain Jack's Venture ship comes with the ship with working sails and masts, crow's nest, captain's wheel, 3 pirates, cannons and cannon balls. We bought it at Sensational Beginnings for $139.95. You can also purchase the Pelican Landing Dock separately for $69.95. The landing dock comes with ramps and docks, a working crane and hoist, a pirate, 3 pelicans and a treasure chest. The crane was the first thing to go at the party. Too many 4 year old boys vying for the power position. It was mended easily enough when they left.

The Captain Jack's Venture ship truly is fun for the whole family!

Season of Light - Making Candles

2010-12-01T15:41:00.002-05:00

Recently, A Toy Garden sent us a candle-making kit to review. The girls were so excited when they heard we were going to make candles to decorate the Thanksgiving table.

Multicolored Beeswax Candle Making Kit ($19.95)

After my little "we can only have fun if we listen" speech, I handed each girl a sheet of beeswax.

"This is going to turn into a candle?!?"

Linnea smelled hers....mmmmm....beeswax. There's just a touch of honey scent.

I showed them how to roll the wax. Our house is chilly, so we warmed the sheet with a hair dryer first.

Look how careful Arielle is.

Linnea is all done.

"Look, Mom!" She was so proud. This is a great project for preschoolers like Linnea who like quick results.

Arielle was still working.

A Toy Garden also sent Stockmar Wax Sheets ($31.95)

We used small cookie cutters to cut out leaves and other shapes.

We just wrapped them around the candles and pressed them on.

Beautiful!!!

The girls got lots of compliments on their hard work.

This is a great holiday craft. You could make it a family tradition. I think we will. The candle making kit is also available in Christmas or Hannukah colors (make your own Hannukah candles - cool!) and in natural beeswax.

And, check out A Toy Garden for stuffing stuffers and unique holiday decor. Arielle loves the child-sizes cardinal wreath ($14.95) that decorates her door.

Thank you, A Toy Garden! This was a super fun review. We'll definitely do this again.

Our Favorite Music

2010-12-01T13:55:00.000-05:00

It is pretty much a miracle when a child wants to hear a song over and over again for more than two hours and mom doesn't mind. What was the song? "I'm Me!" by Charlie Hope.

I love, but was getting tired of the They Might Be Giants and Laurie Berkner that we always listen to, and I wanted something different. So, I bought I'm Me! and World of Dreams ($14.99 each). The girls loved them -- Especially I'm Me!

The title song is about how pretending to be something like a lion doesn't change who you are inside. It has lots of animal sounds and Linnea loves to sing along at the top of her lungs. Another favorite for Linnea is "Frog Song". It is a counting down song with some silliness thrown in. And she likes the classics "Mr. Sun" and "Roll Over". I just played the song and she came running.

Arielle likes I'm Me!, but she insists on the lullabies in World of Dreams for bedtime. The sound is soft and soothing without being sticky sweet. Charlie's voice is beautiful and has a very modern tone.

The really cool thing is that Charlie Hope donated a personal concert to our auction. Unfortunately, the concert is limited to CA, OR, WA, NY, NJ, RI, MA, as well as southern ME, VT and NH. Charlie can also perform in Canada in Greater Victoria, Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal. So, if you live in any of these places, what a great deal!

Otherwise, the CDs are available at KangarooBoo and would make excellent holiday gifts.

Coming soon.....

2010-11-30T17:22:00.002-05:00

Another review/giveaway from Toys and Games Online. Toys and Games online is part of the larger family of CSN stores which sells everything from kids backpacks to cribs.

We use this owl backpack ($20.00) for ballet.

This month, Angelika will be reviewing toys for toddlers.

Thank you, Toys and Games Online!

Ooooh... 15% Off at Rosie Hippo

2010-11-30T17:02:00.000-05:00

Ready for holiday shopping? Rosie Hippo has given us a code for 15% off purchases until the end of the year. Just type in "TOYBOX10" and it is good until 12/31/2010.

I plan to use the code to buy Holztiger animals for stocking stuffers. Santa brings a few every year, and it has added up to a nice collection. Girly-girl Linnea will love the little pets like this <>kitten ($9.00).

Arielle is interested in exploring Australia. So, I'm choosing Australian animals for her, like <>Mama Kangaroo with a joey in her pouch ($15.00).

And this big, 10 1/4 inch long <>crocodile ($18.00).

Rosie Hippo carries a large selection of natural, organic and Earth friendly toys. If you are looking for a toddler dream gift, check out the <>rocking dory ($195 on sale) that Rosie Hippo donated for our <>Holiday Giving Auction.

Thank you, Rosie Hippo!

Sara's Toy Box: Holiday Giving!

2010-11-18T20:38:00.002-05:00

I think I may have mentioned that we are sponsoring an auction to help a friend.

In late August, a toy store owner (and a friend) who frequently contributes to our blog had an emergency appendectomy. She's self-employed, of course, and a cancer survivor. Because cancer is considered a "pre-existing condition" she was unable to get health insurance at any reasonable cost. She ended up with a $27,000 hospital bill -- and she missed she children's first day of school.

Things like cancer and appendicitis can happen to anyone. When I heard my friend's story, I wanted to do something to help. So, I came up with the idea of having Sara's Toy Box sponsor an auction. The response from the toy community has been amazing and we have a lot of great donations. Want to see some pictures?

The baby gift basket contains more than $380 worth of toys and baby care items, including a sweet velveteen rabbit from Auntie Jill and a gorgeous heirloom wooden rattle from Bagnall Woodworks . We have nine more of these silky smooth handmade rattles to auction separately.

The boys gift basket has over $300 worth of toys:

There is a Yubo lunchbox (with a pirate faceplate),

a marble runaround from Magic Cabin,

a sword from The Backyard Armory,

and lots more.

This adorable rag doll is just one of the many great toys in the girl gift basket.

There are Holztiger animals...

Here's the whole over flowing basket:

In addition to a Yubo lunch box, the boy and girl gift baskets also contain a deck of BoomBoom cards and a gift card to KiddoTags.

And a tub of Mary's Softdough with tools.

And, each gift basket has 2 Charlie Hope CD's - - and Charlie donated a concert!

We also have a balance board from Challenge and Fun.

An art bag from Stubby Pencil Studio,

And a most gorgeous Baby bath set from Willow Baus commissioned just for this auction by Down to Earth Toys.

All proceeds will go directly to my friend's hospital bills, and we do have a button to accept donations.

Not everything is on the website, yet. I'm still waiting on pictures from some items and I'll be updating until the last minute. The auction runs December 1-7, and the website is here.

So, stop by and do some Christmas shopping - and thanks so much for your support. We couldn't do this without you.

P.S. I've been a bit tied up with the auction and lagging on holiday reviews, but they are on their way!!

Basically, We love these toys...

2010-11-08T21:37:00.033-05:00

Toys, toys toys! I have to admit I get just as excited about new toys as my kids (sometimes more so… shhhh….) Bells and whistles can entice me sometimes, but what I really love are bright colors, remarkable workmanship and new things to imagine and play. I can look at play sets and dollhouses, fire trucks and baby toys for way too long online. Having a daughter and two sons just opens up the toy horizon even more. We pretty much drool over toys around here (and not just the baby!)

But, when it comes down to it, when you really analyze what my kids play with? The fancy toys don’t really add up to much playtime. And what they play with, oddly mirrors what I remember playing with when I was a kid.

I’m going back to the basics with this review – Blocks and play "silks."

Blocks from Palumba:

When I was a little girl I had a box of colorful wooden blocks. I used to love flipping over the box, and building a little apartment with my blocks. I would make a dining room table and chairs, a couch, a bed. I have my old blocks to this day, and my kids do love to play with them. However, when we get out the blocks, they gravitate towards the cubes and sticks they got from Palumba. (Well, from Santa a couple years ago, but I have it on good authority that Santa got in touch with the folks at Palumba.)

My kids absolutely adore their Cubes and Cherry Building Sticks. They build towers, and bury treasure, and create little houses for their little gnomes.

Both the cubes and sticks work well for loading up a truck:

As a teacher, I have to admit, that one thing I love is toys that teach through imaginative play. The last time we played with the cubes and sticks, we played around with balance, and counting.

My 4 year old is currently very interested in letters, and cubes and sticks really do make great letters!

Speaking of imaginative play, Those sticks make excellent microphones:

Also, if you need to look at something "Way far away," they are just the telescope you've been looking for!

I would love to show you more pictures of the awesome things my kids do with these blocks, but the baby kept knocking them over… then picking one up that is to his liking, and chewing on it for a bit. Sometimes he does change it up a bit by banging them together to make a beautiful song.

They are really the perfect little blocks, in my mind. They aren’t too heavy, but they aren’t too light. They are made from real wood, and are actually quite beautiful! We have the set of 40 sticks (they also come in sets of 20 or 80) and the set of 25 cubes (they also come in a set of 50). Each set comes in a little drawstring cotton bag, which I always intend to use… but somehow clean up time doesn’t work like that around here!

Etsy Play Silks:

Looking at the pictures, you may notice some play "si lks." in the background. I have wanted play silks for my kids for awhile, but I didn't want to get real silk, since we try to stay on the vegan side of things around here. I have some cotton rainbow cloths, but was looking for something silkier, when I stumbled upon etsy seller, DreamSpunKids. Their chiffon play silks are light, flowing, and come in a great variety of colors. For the first set we bought (they come in sets of 6, 8 or 12), I picked a handful of bright spring colors, and most recently, I chose colors that reminded me of the fall:

Good thing. Otherwise, how would my children pretend they are autumn trees? Or volcanoes?
These play silks can really be anything. The kids dress up in them, tie them to chairs to make forts: whatever the kids can imagine. My favorite thing to do with them is to help the kids create play-scapes. Here is our lake under construction (See the spot of yellow and orange? That's the "burning hot sun!"):

Playsilks also make a fabulous back drop for plays, puppet shows, or concerts:

I may or may not have even convinced my husband to wear one as a cape at our son's Super Hero birthday party!

(I wore a blue one!)

We love having a bin of play silks in our playroom, and I highly recommend them as a must-have toy!

They aren't just toys though, my new absolute favorite use for them is as present wrapping:If you want to add some pretty special "basic" toys to your child's play room, I say give Palumba's cubes and sticks and the play silk from etsy seller: DreamSpunKids a try.
The imagination and creativity of your child will shine through.

Happy Playing!

And the Winner of the Fractiles Review Giveaway is...

2010-11-08T17:40:00.000-05:00

Michelle T! Congratulations to Michelle who entered by posting a comment on the review. She won a $25 gift card to Toys and Games Online.

>Toys and Games Online is part of the CSN family of stores. The CSN stores sell everything from modern furniture to school supplies. They'll be sponsoring another review next month.

Congratulations, Michelle!

We Love Stubby Pencil Studio and a Holiday Coupon Code!!!

2010-11-08T17:33:00.000-05:00

Not only has Stubby Pencil Studio donated an awesome arts and crafts gift bag for our auction on December 1-7, but they have a most amazing selection of eco-friendly school supplies and art supplies that are guaranteed to make even any little student feel a little better about going back to school after the holidays.

I don't know about your children's school, but Arielle's school had a very specific supply list and I was a little disappointed that I couldn't make everything as eco-friendly as I would have liked. But, I did what I could.

Arielle took KUM Correc-Brick Erasers ($2.50) and Wildlife Colored Pencils ($7.95) to school. I put a small recycled paper notebook in her backpack, so I could write her little notes to look at while she's at school.

Birds Aqua Notebook ($4.50)

Linnea doesn't need school supplies, but she loves the little mushroom erasers.

Mushroom Pot Erasers ($3.95)

She calls them "Mushroom Babies" and can spend hours taking care of them or carrying them around in a little purse ($6.00).

This year, Linnea is spending two mornings a week at a neighborhood preschool. The other three mornings, I give her "work" to do while I try to get my own work done. Sometimes her "work" is drawing and sometimes it is about learning. She learns a letter a week at school, so I always write out the letter and let her decorate it with something apropriate - apple chunks for "A", buttons for "B", next week we'll make a "C" out of tiny cookies. She also decorates a letter with stickers.

She also loves to string beads. The wooden beads at Stubby Pencil Studio are safely colored using child-safe, water-based paints or natural oils. And painting is always a favorite - the triangular paint brushes ($7.95) make it so easy for Linnea to get paint exactly where she wants it.

I thought it was funny, but the staff at preschool is really impressed with Linnea's ability to color, draw and use scissors. We've always had art supplies available to her (I have tables set up for art in both the kitchen and in my office), and I think that makes a difference. Art isn't just an activity, but a part of our lives.

Crayon Rocks ($6.95)

I'm totally bragging, but here is her picture of five monkeys jumping on her bed. I love it!

If you are ready to get creating in an eco-friendly way, check out the all-natural art supplies at Stubby Pencil Studio There are plenty of great stocking stuffers and party favors.

Sara's Toy Box readers may discount code STBSAVE10 to save 10% on purchases through 12/31/10. Happy holiday shopping!!!

10% off at Carl & Me

2010-10-22T06:38:00.001-04:00

Looking for wooden toys for the holidays? Carl and Me: Exceptional Toys For Boys (and girls!)offers a selection of safe, woden toys from the USA and Europe suitable for children from babies to teens.

NIC Wooden Toys - Creamobil Little Men 'Pico' ($12.00)

Small Stacking Man ($24.00)

Scalino Bell Tower Set ($78.00)

Carl & Me is especially great for unusual construction toys - the kind my older son Merlin loved when he was in elementary/middle school (and still occasionally plays with at almost 21!). If you have the kind of child who loves to build and make things work, definitely check out Carl & Me.

Sara's Toy Box readers can take 10% off through the holidays with code "SARA".

Beautiful Toys, $5 off: Bella Luna Toys

2010-10-21T07:06:00.001-04:00

Hi Readers,

I'd like to introduce you to a new favorite, Bella Luna Toys. Bella Luna Toys is owned by a Waldorf teacher, Sarah Baldwin, who chooses each toy with care.

The small tree house ($89.95) is a fair trade toy made in Vietnam out of sustainably harvested wood. But, mostly it's really cute. I can picture little gnomes and fairies having a tea party .

If you need gnomes, Bella Luna has gnomes. Or, you can make your own using the Forest Gnome Family Kit ($19.95). These would look so cute peeking out of a stocking. I may need to make some for Arielle's stocking.

So many beautiful choices! Check out the lovely Waldorf toys and art supplies at Bella Luna and take $5.00 of your first order with the coupon code "Sara5".

Sara

Fractiles-7 Review and Giveaway from Toys and Games Online

2010-10-19T16:49:00.055-04:00

When my friend Sara said she could use some extra help to write reviews for Sara's Toy Box, I jumped at the opportunity. I have been a huge fan of her blog for a few years now and my boys and I absolutely love toys. The boys are a bit less particular than I am, but that does not stop me from trying to find beautiful, useful, educational, and safe toys for them to play with.

For my family’s first review, I selected Fractiles-7 from Toys and Games Online.com. I actually selected the large Fractiles-7 set($39.95) and the Fridge Fractiles set (only an additional $10.95) since I have two little boys and I knew there would be some fighting over this toy once they figured out how cool it was.

Fractiles-7 is basically a magnetic puzzle. But it is also more than a puzzle. Fractiles consists of versatile flexible diamond shaped tiles that can be combined and recombined into an infinite number of designs. The large Fractiles set has 192 tiles and a 12”x12” textured black steel board to easily create your geometric designs. Fridge Fractiles has 48 magnetic tiles and does not come with an activity board as it is meant for your kitchen refrigerator. This is great for my family since my boys love spending time with me in the kitchen while I prepare dinner and I am always scrambling to find activities to keep them occupied so I have the time and space to properly prepare said dinner.

Toys and Games Online.com shipped my order very quickly, and I was very pleased when I found my package on the front porch. I loved the minimal packaging of my Fractiles sets. The large set is packaged in what is basically an old-fashioned album cover which makes clean-up and storage of the set very easy. There are tons of colorful examples of Fractiles designs as well as some information on symmetry and the basic geometry behind the diamond shapes that make them fit together into endless combinations.

I love the educational aspect of this information even though I feel the concept is a bit above where my boys currently are in their math comprehension. After all, one is only in kindergarten and the other is in his first year of pre-school. Even though I may not share the information with them explicitly, they really are learning the concepts by simply playing around, copying or making their own designs with this toy. I couldn’t wait to take a closer look at the new toy and decided to open it while the boys were still in school. I have to admit, once I opened it and discovered that the tiles were all stuck together in a large piece, I was a bit disappointed. I examined the pieces and it didn’t appear to me that they were pre-cut, so I pulled out the scissors and began cutting.

Luckily, it did not take me long to discover that the pieces actually do easily bend and pull apart and I was able to put away the scissors and decided to save even the taking apart of the tiles as a project to work on with the boys. Pulling the Fractiles tiles apart is a great work for developing fine motor activity in little hands and my boys happily helped me pull apart and sort the tiny magnetic tiles.

The boys were immediately engaged with the Fractiles sets. Both the large set and the fridge set come with a lot of images showing so many creations you can make with the tiles. This is a great way to build confidence in using the set for younger children who aren’t sure where to start with the Fractiles. I encouraged the boys to choose something they liked from the pictures on the sleeve and try to copy it. It wasn’t long before both my boys were trying out their own creations with the tiles and this is where the real fun began. My younger son will make something new and can’t wait to show me. Once I take a look, I get an explanation of what his creation represents and it almost always ends with the question, “Am I the coolest artist-invention ever?” (By the way, "artist-invention" was not a typo. This is his actual quote). I am especially enjoying Fridge Fractiles in this aspect. I come into the kitchen and frequently find a new design. It is fun trying to guess which of my little “artist-inventors” created the new masterpiece.

We are very happy with our newest toy! Both boys will sit and play with Fractiles with dedicated concentration for quite a while and feel a sense of pride when they have created something. I feel happy because they are subtly being education on patterns and symmetry which are two important concepts for geometry. Fractiles are also made in the U.S.A. and are lead and phthalate free. We love this toy so much, we are definitely planning on getting a few of the Travel Fractiles sets from Toys and Games Online ($24.95) to give as birthday gifts for classmates of my kindergartner.

Now, the really fun part! Sara's Toy Box is giving you an opportunity to win a $25 gift card (perfect for Travel Fractiles) from Toys and Games Online. Simply go to toysandgamesonline.com to view their great selection of educational toys and games. Then come back here to Sara's Toy Box and leave us a comment about which toy you would select along with your contact information. You can also enter by sending us the toy selection in an e-mail or a message on Facebook.

And the winner of the Kiddo Tags is....

2010-10-18T17:19:00.001-04:00

ReggieMann!
She wins a pack of 30 Mini Kiddo Tags with a free *dwink* Box Holder in pink or blue. Congratulations!

So sorry for the delay. We have been the house of sickness and it's been hard to get anything done.

By the way, I finally ironed on our iron-on Kiddo Tags. It was easy once I got over my aversion to plugging in the iron. The round name labels fit perfectly on a tag and I don't have to worry about Linnea's gloves ending up in the lost-and-found.

Safe Nail Polish from Piggy Paint

2010-10-18T17:10:00.002-04:00

For our second review at Sara's Toy Box I enlisted the help of my oldest daughter, Emma, she's 11 years old and in the 6th grade -- She and her sisters wanted to have a little 'make over' party today -- which for them is an excuse to paint nails, fix hair and wear lip gloss --

We got a couple of colors of wonderfully safe nail polish from Piggy Paint -- this would be great for smaller children who still put their hands in their mouths and for pre-teens who want to not smell like a nail salon and who would like to have safe nail polish for their little piggies ...

Emma started by painting her sister's toes ...

They're a nice mix of pink and yellow because they couldn't decide! I love those little toes.

Then Emma went on to paint their fingers in a similar mix of colors.

And naturally she had to paint her own nails as well ... she went with just pink -- you know, when you're nearly grown it's easier to decide ...

Piggy Paint has a new line of TWEEN nail polish that is colorful, safe and super fun -- they even have a new glow-in-the dark polish, "Radioactive" that would be so fun at a sleep over. You can use it over an existing color or alone -- just a few coats for maximum glow and you've made someone's day.

As hard as it is to find presents for tween girls -- this would make a wonderful gift for any young lady -- great in a stocking, and they can share it with their little sisters and friends without worry about toxins and nasty smells.

Piggy Paint is offering readers of Sara's Toy Box a 10% off coupon code AND free domestic shipping on orders over $35. The coupon code is TOYZ10L and it expires on December 15, 2010 - plenty of time for holiday shopping!

GIVEAWAY!!! -- One Sara's Toy Box reader will win a $15 gift certificate to Piggy Paint. Just go to Piggy Paint, shop around and post a comment here or send us an email saying what you would get for the sweet tween or little princess in your life or tell us your favorite color and you'll be entered in the contest. Make sure you give us some contact info so we can let you know if you win!

We'll announce the winner on Halloween. Piggy Paints are also the perfect accessory for your little witch or goblin - green nails (a gorgeous color called Dragon Tears), you think?

Buy Handmade Week!

2010-10-01T12:32:00.000-04:00

American Craft Week runs from October 1-10 and The Handmade Toy Alliance is asking us to pledge to buy handmade at least once this holiday season. Click here to sign the Pledge to Buy Handmade.

We say avoiding mass produced toys and treating our children to lovingly created clothing and toys is no hardship. Need ideas?

Here are some suggestions:

Linnea hates coats, but she loves her poncho ($46.00) from Skipping Hippos. The ponchos, jackets and coats are the site are all made in the U.S.A. out of CPSIA-compliant materials. And, right now, many of them are on sale!

Linnea gets compliments every where we go.

Hip Mountain Mama offers this Gnome Family ($15.99) made from 100% reclaimed Walnut and finished with a safe and natural mineral oil. They are made by The Original Tree Swing, a family-based business in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Doesn't this look like fun?

Speaking of fun wooden toys, Oregon mom Willow Baus makes beautiful handmade toys which she sells from her Etsy shop, Tweet by Willow Baus. I am totally enamored with these toys. I ordered a covered wagon for Linnea's birthday. I'll let you know how she likes it.

Covered Wagon ($20)

Hanging Mobile ($40)

Sail Boat ($18)

And, check out the eco-friendly plush animals and baby toys at Ecoleeko. I have a few of these in my office right now (donations for our auction's baby gift basket) and they are oh so soft.

MooBelle ($32)

You can find handmade at Etsy, at your local farmer's markets and craft fairs, and through the Handmade Toy Alliance. Remember, handmade helps your local economy and the Earth. If each of us buys only a few handmade items this holiday season, it can make a big difference.

Charity Auction Postponed until December

2010-09-27T17:35:00.002-04:00

There's some great things happening, but we need a little time. We'll be keeping you updated, so stay tuned!!!!!

:0)

The Winner of the Science Kit Giveaway is...........

2010-09-26T14:15:00.001-04:00

SuperSarah! Congratulations to SuperSarah who entered by email. She won a $40 giftcard to Toys and Games Online.

Toys and Games Online is part of the CSN family of stores. The CSN stores sell everything from end tables to baby cribs. They'll be sponsoring another review next month.

Congratulations, SuperSarah!

Tags for Everything - KiddoTags Review and Giveaway

2010-09-26T13:56:00.003-04:00

The first day of school came and Arielle went off to first grade with her customized lunch box from Yubo.

Arielle adores her lunchbox, and she would be so sad if it got lost. I am glad she loves her lunchbox, and I would be annoyed if it got lost because lunchboxes are not cheap.

What can I do to help Ari and her lunchbox to stay together? I can use a sharpie and write her name (and then I can't pass down the cute lunchbox) or I can get KiddoTags.

KiddoTags are customizable name labels that stick to your lunchboxes, bottles, toys, pacifiers.... anything. etc. They are super durable and waterproof, dishwasher-proof, microwave safe, UV-resistant and scuff-proof.

You design your own using 80 character icons, 12 different label colors and 19 different fonts.

There are even shoe labels and iron-on labels for clothing.

The company is owned by a stay-at-home mom and everything is designed and printed in the United States.

I bought each girl a Kiddo Tags value pack ($34.99). The pack game with a variety of labels in different sizes. I designed each girl's tags to reflect her likes. Arielle's have owls and are pink. Linnea's are yellow with cute cats.

I labeled water bottles...

...the little bins inside the lunchboxes (yes, these have been going through the dishwasher daily for a few weeks) ...

... all the individual parts of the lunchboxes (overkill, but moms like stickers, too.)...

...how useful!

KiddoTags are also great for labeling school supplies (a requirement at our school and this looks so much prettier than scrawling in Sharpie).

The value pack came with shoe labels, an excellent idea if your child takes gymnastics or ballet or another sport where shoes sometimes end up piled in cubbies. I must remember to label the ballet and tap shoes!

It also came with two hanging backpack tags. I also put a sticky tag inside.

KiddoTags aren't just for things that go to school; I labeled the girls' bicycle helmets.

I got some last-name-only tags for Dad's lunch box and my water bottle and even the bottom of my camera since it comes with me a lot.

I also bought a pack of iron-ons for coats. I did last name only since the girls hand down and pass on their clothes to their cousins. The iron-ons are in the laundry room waiting for a free moment.

When my friends first mentioned KiddoTags, I thought labeling your kids stuff was a bit obsessive. Then I got the note from school and looked at the site. The cuteness won me over. Once I tried them, I completely understood what the raves were about. I love these things!

Try them out and get 20% off your first order by signing up for the KiddoTags newsletter.

One of our lucky readers will get to try out KiddoTags. KiddoTags will give one Sara's Toy Box reader a pack of 30 Mini Kiddos with a free *dwink* Box Holder in pink or blue only. To enter, all you have to do is go to the KiddoTags website and push the "Like" button. Then let me know that you like KiddoTags by posting here or on our facebook page.

The winner will be announced on October 4.

Here's Linnea, all KiddoTagged and ready for her first day of preschool.

A secret..... shhhhh......

2010-09-15T17:40:00.000-04:00

Sara's Toy Box is hosting a charity auction. The auction will take place on October 1st - as long as everything gets here on time.

The owner of a toy store that we love (and a supporter to our blog) had an emergency appendectomy a few weeks ago. She is a cancer survivor as well as self-employed, and she can't get affordable health insurance. So now she has a $26,000 hospital bill on top of missing her children's first day of school and just some tough life stuff that happened around that time.

So, because we can make a difference for her, Sara's Toy Box is sponsoring an auction to help her out.

The auction will be on HyenaCart. I will post the link once we get the site set up.

What do we have? We have four great gift baskets... one for a boy, one for a girl, one for a baby and one for mom. There will also be individual items and a couple of cool surprises. I'll be posting pictures of everything on the blog and on the auction site in the next few weeks. We have Holztiger, Sarah's Silks, Mary's Soft Dough, handmade dolls and swords and heirloom baby rattles, a balance board, Boom Boom cards, organic stuffed animals, a science kit.... so much. There are even rumors of a Bamboletta Doll (unconfirmed) and a private concert (confirmed)... So, do some Christmas shopping and help out a great woman.

Science Kit Review and Giveaway from Toys and Games Online

2010-08-31T08:21:00.012-04:00

Hello all! My name is Donna, and my crew and I are looking forward to helping out here at Sara's Toy Box with reviews and fun -- I have four little girls who are all curious and creative ladies.

Recently we had the pleasure to review the Space Exploration Kit ($31.40) from Thames and Kosmos that was sent to us from Toys and Games Online

As a homeschooling family we're always on the look out for interesting, fun and easily accessible science kits that are also reasonably priced! The prices at Toys and Games Online for this science kit were similar to what I'd found elsewhere.

We are already familiar with the brand Thames and Kosmos and their science kits because we ordered their Chem 2000 kit for our oldest daughter's chemistry lab this year. She's starting 6th grade and she needed some serious science – that science kit is going to work out GREAT for her and for her sisters as they get older. I can tell already that it's well worth it.

The Space Exploration Kit is recommended for kids aged 8 and up.

We had to do this review over the course of a few days because there are just SO many things to do in this kit. There's still more we need to cover, but we're going to have to wait until it gets dark earlier so we can see some stars before bedtime!

Today you'll get to meet my twin daughters ... they are goofy 8 year olds who aspire to be on Mythbusters when they grow up ... Rachel and Mara -- this was their favorite constellation they learned about ... Gemini, the twins.

We began our cool science kit by reading some directions. They're rather easy to follow but there are a number experiments that require adult supervision. And, if left to their own devices my girls might not actually learn WHY something happens; it's all the better if I'm there to get them to listen to an explanation as well.

We put together a simple telescope and tried it out – learned about how the lenses work …

Then we put together a pretty nifty model of the solar system that now hangs in the girls' room below the ceiling that already had glow in the dark stars all over it … We talked about the phases of the moon and watched it changed in by putting together a little flip book.

A few days later we got some free time to open up the kit again, this time we got to learn about rockets, which I couldn't get a good picture of – that little thing really took off! The girls also loved being able to go check the time on the sundial and learn about some constellations – we've hung the pictures of them in their window and they're hoping when they can have a nice starry night they can find some constellations all on their own!

Want to go back to school with your own space exploration kit? Sara's Toy Box is giving away a $40 gift card to Toys and Games Online. To enter, go to their website and pick which awesome educational games or educational toys you'd get for the little scholar in your life. Then come back here and tell us what you would pick and why; add some contact info in your comment and we'll choose a winner next week! If posting your contact info makes you uncomfortable, you can also enter by sending us an email or a message on Facebook.

A new coupon code from Down To Earth Toys

2010-08-30T15:58:00.001-04:00

Free shipping on natural toys and toys made in the USA from Down to Earth Toys. Just use coupon code "SARA" through September 30, 2010 on orders over $25.

Check out the new arrivals. Down to Earth has some great European toys, including pots and pans from Portugal,and child-size garden tools from Hungary.

Aluminum pot with lid ($17.95)

Child-sized garden tools ($14.50)

Happy Birthday to Arielle

2010-08-30T15:37:00.001-04:00

Did you notice our new bird wallpaper? That was in celebration of Arielle's 6th birthday. Arielle had a bird themed, birthday party and I thought I'd share some pictures for those looking for eco-friendly party ideas and kids activities.

First we built bird houses. These bird houses are made by GreenBird out of recycled paper. They are easy to assemble and last from spring to fall. Small birds like wrens, nuthatches, tufted titmouses and Carolina chickadees will build nests in the houses. The houses are $12.99 each or $66 for twelve - the bulk savings made them a reasonably priced party activity.

We did need adults to assemble the houses, but then the kids got to go all out ith painting them. Green Bird sells eco-friendly milk paint, but I didn't realize it had to be pre-mixed so we used regular poster paints.

After the bird houses, we planted bird flowers. The Echinacea (Cone Flower) seeds were also from GreenBird. They come in a six inch seed pie which can be cut into smaller pieces. You just fill the pot with dirt, put in a piece of seed pie and gently cover it with more dirt. Then water and wait for it to grow.

Then we decorated the pots with stickers. The party was a few weeks ago and we now have little sprouts.

Of course, there was a lot of running around, playing dress-up, checking out the play food in our toy kitchen and a fun game of pin-the-beak-on-the-cockatoo. Everyone got prizes.

Then snacks and cake. Arielle and Linnea made bird's nest cookies to fit in with bird theme.

A pink roses, butterflies and birds cake:

Arielle loved it. She claimed it was the best birthday ever!

Our friends went home with bird houses, flower pots and a bag of bird seed.

The party bird stickers are from Kristin Sanchez on Etsy.

Happy 6th Birthday, Arielle.

Coming up soon -

2010-08-12T15:52:00.000-04:00

I think I mentioned that CSN stores have asked us to be regular bloggers. CSN is a group of online stores that sells everything from table lamps to cribs. But, we like Toys and Games Online and right now they have 20% off educational toys, arts and crafts (code is "back2schooltoys". So check them out.

And, we'll be bringing good toy reviews and giveaways soon.

Boom Boom Cards at Giving Gifts

2010-08-12T07:49:00.005-04:00

Arielle and Linnea have been learning about good deeds. They play a game called "Fairy" with their big sister. At first, the fairy just granted wishes. But, some little girls were getting greedy and making a lot of wishes. So the fairy said, "You must do three good deeds first."

"What's a good deed?", they asked.

The Boom Boom cards from Giving Gifts arrived just in time. What are Boom Boom cards?

Boom Boom Cards Original Deck ($12.00)

Boom Boom cards are a deck of 26 cards. Each card is printed with an act of kindness. You do the act of kindness, log it on the website and pass the card on to a friend.

The girls were very excited to do the good deed. Arielle read the card.

Our first good deed was "Plant a seed!" This was easy because we had cone-flower seeds left over from Arielle's birthday party (more about that in a few days). Cone flowers or Echinacea are especially Earth-friendly because they provide food for birds and butterflies.

The seeds are from Green Bird.

Then we decorated the pots with stickers. Not so Earth-friendly, but fun.

After we did our good deed, I went to BoomBoomCards.com and registered our deck. When you register, you can choose a charity that will receive a donation. We chose NatureBridge, a non-profit organization that helps students connect with nature through activities in outdoor classrooms.

I wrote about our activity and posted the picture. Now, I'm sending the card to Eleanor who will write about her family's experience.

The next card says make a card for someone who lives far away. Good idea. The girls can't wait.

Giving Gifts is a Canadian company that sells eco-friendly and fair trade toys and gifts that are good for both the recipient and the environment.

In addition to the Boom Boom Cards Family Edition ( $16.00) that we used, they sell beautiful Blabla bird rattles ($30.00), natural art products, Envirosax (cool Sesame Street ones), lunch boxes and other treats.

Giving Gifts has offered our readers ten percent off all purchases. The code is "Sara10." That's another good deed.

The Winner Is.........

2010-08-11T13:12:00.001-04:00

Congratulations Betsy, the winner of the $25 gift card to Franklin Goose.

Betsy likes the all-natural art supplies from Clementine Art. We do, too.

Thank you, Franklin Goose.

Duck... duck... no, it's Franklin Goose

2010-07-27T22:07:00.002-04:00

Franklin Goose is a company that is devoted to selling safe, organic and natural products for babies, children and families. They sent us an organic, stuffed Franklin Goose doll ($35) to review.

Linnea saw Franklin and yelled "Mine!!!!"; she grabbed him and ran away. I then spent weeks looking for Franklin, so I could write the review. He is one busy goose with hardly a moment to answer questions. But, eventually I pinned him down.

- So Franklin, how have you been?

"Well, I'm always traveling.

I love to explore and recently I had a chance to visit the Virginia countryside.

And, check out the wild flora. Mmmm... the flowers are tasty.

It is very hard to find time for an interview.

With hardly a moment to rest...

...before I'm on the go again."

In addition to extensive traveling, cuddling and flower tasting, Franklin is Franklin Goose's spokes-goose. Franklin Goose offers natural, organic, and chemical safe toys for your baby and child. Their toys are natural, organic, or made of recycled materials. Paint is lead free. And they carry no electronic or synthetic toys. Franklin is a good example and he works hard to live up to their ideals. Franklin is made in New York by Ecoleeko out of organic cotton sherpa, hand-dyed bamboo fleece, bamboo yarn, and kapok fiber filling. He is sewn with organic thread, and is machine washable on the delicate cycle.

Franklin is the perfect size for a car pillow, throwing at your sister, and of course a good game of Duck, Duck, Goose!

And, Franklin asked me to tell you about our new giveaway. One reader will win a $25 gift certificate to the Franklin Goose website. To enter, visit Franklin Goose, take a look and their awesome collection of toys and baby care products and then come back here and tell us how you would spend the gift certificate. Just post a comment with some sort of contact information at the end of this blog post. Franklin will draw the name of the winner on August 10.

I'm back!

2010-07-02T11:00:00.002-04:00

We moved and we're finally settled in our new home on the outskirts of Washington D.C. It's a big adventure after six years of living in a northern farming community.

New Playroom

The new house has a great play space. The basement family room is large enough that we could divide it into TV space for big kids and play space for little kids.

Lots of Trofast storage furniture from IKEA means we can store all the toys. And, the little alcove outside the laundry room makes a great play kitchen.

My home office is behind the white doors.

Best of all, the playroom opens up to an awesome back yard. Arielle has been looking for fairies.

Other big news:

Arielle started kindergarten. I'm working almost full time now and I can't really do justice to home schooling. The local schools are excellent, so Arielle attended the last two and a half weeks of kindergarten.
She loved it!

She also lost her first tooth. The tooth fairy brought shiny silver dollars and a great book about tooth traditions all over the world. The book is available on Amazon.

We have ballet and swim lessons coming up this month. I recently read that swimming lessons are the best way to protect your children from drowning. Grandma has a pool and lives near the beach, so swimming lessons here we come.

Coming up on the blog:

Toys and Games Online has asked us to do monthly reviews or giveaways in exchange for a little advertising. I'll be posting more about that this weekend.

An organic Franklin doll just arrived from Franklin Goose. We'll be doing a giveaway as well :0)

Check out the eco-friendly toys at Down to Earth Toys . Most of the toys are made in the U.S.A., but there's a brand new selection of European toys, including some realistic cookware. Like us, our friend Carrin is very concerned about the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. So, Down to Earth Toys is donating a percentage of every purchase to help with clean up efforts. There's a lot of wildlife at risk.

And, a store review and coupon code are coming soon from our new Canadian friends at Giving Gifts. Giving Gifts offers a variety of eco-friendly products for families.

And lots more.

Thank you for hanging in there and I appreciate all the supportive emails.

A Shield, Sword and Sheath Make Jack a Happy Boy

2010-05-15T22:55:00.000-04:00

I had to do some soul-searching this birthday season. We are a family who does not allow gun play, who do not watch violent or cruel movies who take spiders out of the house in jars. However, this year I had to come to terms with the fact that Jackson's active imagination often takes him to a land of dragons. To caves filled with trolls and towers with fair princesses to be rescued. What is a mama to do? Well this mama decided that if Sir Hits Things With Sticks A Lot was going to continue living up to his name he should have a proper stick. And not just a stick; a handmade, utterly beautiful sustainable set of knight's gear.

Enter BirchLeaf Designs.

BirchLeaf Designs is more than a shop on Etsy. The owners of the shop are true artisans. On top of their extensive artistic talents they are truly dedicated to a sustainable lifestyle. Wendy and Mojo are raising their beautiful family in Northern Michigan off the grid. Their profile makes me sigh. This bit in particular:

"We live, work, home school, create, love and play nestled amongst the Hemlocks."

To say that I am enamored by both the dagger set and the BirchLeaf Designs family would be an understatement. Wendy was a dream to work with. Kind, understanding and dedicated to both her customers and her work.

But I could go on forever. Instead I will go on while showing you exactly what I am talking about.

Wendy was kind enough to include a little surprise- this beautiful hand-dyed play silk. I felt it would be the perfect wrapping for the dagger set. Indeed, the silk was lovely:

Though this picture shows Jackson in a serious mood he was thrilled and thoroughly surprised to see what we had gotten for him. "Now I can tame and defeat dragons with a real sword!" Of course we talked about never hitting anything alive and that if the dragons could be brought home, fed and trained that would be ideal.

Sir Hits Things With Sticks A Lot was quickly re-knighted Sir Hunter of the Deep Woods. After the brief ceremony it was time for his first quest:

The dagger is just beautiful. This is a toy that can and will be handed down, a true heirloom quality piece.

Of course we couldn't go long without that old sword through the head joke!

Sir Hunter of the Deep Woods had to take a brief rest. Dragon hunting is hard work, no doubt. This picture gives you a good idea as to the scale and look of the wooden shield and dagger. Again, amazing quality from talented artisans.

Since then Jackson and his dagger have been on many a quest. Just the other day they worked together to capture the elusive Three Headed Dragon from the Deepest Darkest Jungle. I look forward to watching their many more adventures and stretches of the imagination. If you are looking for the perfect gift for the dragon trainer or slayer in your life I highly recommend these tools of the trade. Made it the USA without the use of toxic chemicals, glues or varnishes this set is a testament to the beauty and safety of handmade toys.

Please visit their site to view all of their items. Here are a few of my favorite things:

A beautiful set of playsilks. $10 each and well worth it.

Set of four playclips. $26

Hand-carved wooden rice paddle. Simple and perfect. $18

Waldorf-inspired paint holders. These are a Sara favorite. $25

Wendy has been kind enough to offer our readers a coupon. The coupon is good for 10% off your purchase. Just convo Wendy and let her know that you saw her review on Sara's Toy Box. The coupon will be good for two weeks so HURRY!

Please visit BirchLeaf Designs and know that any purchase made in their shop will support an incredible family. Go handmade toys! Go Birch Leaf Designs!

You can also follow Birch Leaf Designs on their new blog by clicking here.

Free game at Nico and Zoe

2010-05-10T08:22:00.006-04:00

Earthday is over, but Nico & Zoe are still celebrating. Spend $25 and get a free Plan Toys recycling game;spend $50, and get a Recycling Game and a HUGE Plan Toys reusable bag.

Pamela says the game is simple, but really cool. They opened one up and sevden-year-old Zoe had to put it together and play it at least 5 times!

Nico & Zoe offers a selection of handmade toys, European toys and toys made in the U.S.A.. They have a great selection of toys under $10 and toys under $20.

I'm looking for travel toys right now, so I like this:

Zoe's Baby Magnetic Doll Set ($12.00)

I imagine it would keep little girls busy in the car. I also found harmonicas and lacing shapes.

Dolly Runway - the dolls get a makeover!

2010-05-05T07:58:00.000-04:00

It was a quiet day at my house and I thought "Hey, it's way past time to review Linnea's cool wooden cosmetic play set from Estia. We should have a fashion show."

Linnea received this kit around Easter and I have had it on my list to review ever since. It isn't that she hasn't played with it, but that she loves it so much that she tends to get very possessive if anyone else even looks at it -- just part of being three. I thought a fashion show might inspire some cooperative play.

This is the set. It is well-made and cute as can be. I wish I had a camera with me when Linnea first opened it. Her eyes just about popped out of her head. "OOOOOOOhhhhhhh!"

wooden cosmetic play set from Estia $65.99

The set is designed in Germany and made in Thailand out of rubberwood. It includes a blow dryer, handheld mirror, 3 lipsticks with a wooden holder (attached to the box), powder box with built-in mirror and powder puff, an eyeshadow compact with 6 eye shadow colors, an applicator and mirror, comb, hair roller (we use it as a brush), a perfume bottle, and jar of magic beauty cream. Everything is pretend and requires imagination for best results.

The beauty shop...

Close-up of Linnea's absolute favorite possession (other than PooPoo).

Lipstick in the holder.

But, as everyone who watches Project Runway knows, the models have to get dressed before they put on make-up. Our models are Cassie and a selection of very much loved Haba dolls: Finja, Souri, Paola, Lotta, Lilli and Nele. The Haba dolls are available at KangarooBoo.

Time for some pretend play! Our team of stylists dresses the dolls in their dolly finery.

Oh, nice hat Finja!

Time for hair. The comb has wide teeth and the brush has imaginary bristles, so the dolls can be brushed and brushed without their yarn hair being damaged.

A bit of powder for Lilli.

Cassie gets eye shadow.

Perfume?

Yes, please! Douse it on.

Almost ready, Cassie. Just a few touch-ups.

Arielle puts lipstick and eyeshadow on Souri.

Ready to go?

Uh, oh! Lilli has wet hair! Blow it dry. Now we are ready to go.

The fashion show:

A great time was had by all. The fashion show came to a sudden halt when we saw our little friend Sidney across the street. The dolls were abandoned as we ran out to enjoy the sun and play on Sidney's swing set.

The cosmetic kit also works wonderfully on little princesses, pretend fairies and other beauties in need of imaginary cosmetics. It is the perfect gift for the girly girl preschooler in your life.

Considering Earth Day

2010-04-20T08:38:00.004-04:00

I wanted to share this article from Maple Landmark

Classic wooden school bus ($44.95)

A lot is said about the eco-benefits of wood grown is Asia, too bad much of it is the incomplete truth. To be sure, the idea of plantation grown trees sounds like a tremendous advantage over imagined alternatives. However, there is always more to the story. For several reasons, North American hardwoods, including our own hard maple, are superior choices.

1) Plantation grown vs. Forest harvested.
Plantation trees, such as rubberwood, are easy to envision as renewable and sustainable. However, what has that done to the natural, historical ecology of that land? It has been forever supplanted. Land was cleared to grow a crop, no differently than jungle cleared in South America. The biodiversity has been eliminated.

When trees are selectively harvested in our northern temperate forests, they are culled from the natural ecosystem. Modern logging techniques allow for minimal damage to the surrounding area and the natural forest continues to thrive and regenerate as it has for thousands of years.

Limited harvests actually increase biodiversity since the large trees are less dominant and most wildlife flourish with varied vegetation.

The images of a denuded landscape are part of the history of forestry throughout the world and it still happens in pockets, especially in third world countries. Generations of experience in land stewardship has taught better ways of management. In Vermont, forest coverage is increasing and, after the heavy logging of the 1800’s, is nearing that which the colonists saw when they arrived.

2) Chemical safe
Wood products that come from other parts of the world have sometimes been found to be chemically stabilized or treated against pests and fungus. The Forest Products Lab in Madison, Wisconsin says in reference to rubberwood (parawood): "Lumber requires chemical dipping to control blue stain and borer attack."

That is not used in general application in this country with our domestic woods. Air-drying and kiln-drying are the accepted ways of removing moisture from raw lumber to be ready for further processing. Maple will take on a “sticker stain” if it is not set up properly to dry. Adding chemicals is not the answer, good mill management is the solution.

3) Transportation
Wood grown and used in manufactured goods in Asia has already traveled over 10,000 miles when it reaches the US market. Most American wood products factories are near their material source. Our main mill suppliers are within 10 miles of our shop and the trees are harvested in the local region.

If you think floating goods over the ocean is low impact transportation, you would be wrong. Ships burn some of the nastiest of fuels, especially high in sulfur. The largest of the super freighters are each said to pollute as much in a year as 50 million cars (16 of these ships equals all the world’s cars).

4) Honest dealing
This from Ethical Corporation: “And China is major importer of illegal timber from forests in Indonesia, Cameroon, Congo and Equatorial Guinea. Though accurate figures are hard to come by, the website globaltimber.org.uk says up to half of all timber imported to China in 2004 was illegal.” Corruption in the trade of commodities, such as timber, in undeveloped countries is common. Certifications can mean very little – look at the continuing incidence of lead tainted toys discovered at our docks, practically every week.

We will admit that a few years ago there was a case of timber rustling in Vermont, one neighbor got angry at another and cut a few of his maples.

5) Quality and beauty
While every attempt has been made to talk up the qualities of rubberwood, it just doesn’t match the durability and beauty of our maple. Sometimes called “Asian birch,” I’ve even heard it claimed that rubberwood was in the maple family (not even close). The high-pitched attempted to make it appear to be as-good-as, most likely means it isn’t.

Just food for thought.

Wooden fire truck ($44.95)

Lunch Boxes

2010-04-07T07:58:00.009-04:00

Arielle will be starting school soon, so the Easter Bunny thought lunch boxes would makes great Easter Baskets this year. The Easter Bunny did a Google search on "Eco-friendly lunchboxes" and found Yubo customizable lunchboxes. The Easter Bunny got very excited because these lunchboxes can be customized with just about any design - even cockatoos.

Arielle and Linnea were so happy about their new lunchboxes. They decided we would celebrate spring and have picnic lunch in the park.

So, I packed a lunch. Mmmm... Peanut butter and jelly for Arielle, "peanut butter and jelly with no peanut butter" for Linnea, applesauce, and for dessert, yogurt with sprinkles.

Everything has its own little container. This is the configuration that came with lunchbox, but extra containers are available so you can customize lunch as you need to. Everything is BPA and phthalate free. All packed up; there is plenty of room for a cloth napkin.

About the faceplates - The lunchboxes come with a faceplate, but you can choose a standard design ($6.95), a personalized design ($9.95), or upload a photo and design your own ($12.95). This is what the Easter Bunny did for Arielle's lunch box. Linnea's is one of the standard designs.

At first I thought the faceplates are simply laminated card stock that slide in and out of the holder. But, Cyndi from Yubo told me that the paper is actually a polyester, water-proof paper that they print directly on. So they do just fine with bad weather or spills. And, Arielle is thrilled to have a lunchbox featuring her favorite birds.

And, we are ready to go. The lunchboxes don't come with a thermos, but you can get an insulated drink holder ($5.95) that attaches to the side. We are using out Kleen Kanteens.

Linnea is so excited. She was in such a hurry that she put her shirt on backwards. Shhh....

Picnicking...... At first, Arielle had some difficulty opening her sandwich container. But, it was a matter of practice.

Linnea did not. She loves her BP&J with no J sandwich.

This is the icepack that fits in the bottom of the lunchbox to keep cold food cold.

Arielle got her food open. Then Arielle saw a bee and wanted to go home. Do your kids do that?

After the picnic, it is time to clean up. I slide out the faceplates and wipe up a spot of jelly with a damp cloth.

Everything snaps apart.

And fits in the dishwasher.

So, some things are great about this lunch box. I like the different configurations of containers and the ice pack. It is also easy to clean. And, it is customizable which is great and you can change the faceplates as your child's interests change at a reasonable price. You child can even make her own faceplate designs. And, it is great for preschoolers, but will also work for tweens who want their lunchbox customized with their celebrity crush-of-the-month.

Some things could be better. I wish the drink fit inside the box because with young kids every item is something else that can be lost, but the insulated holder works fine. And a shoulder strap would be nice.

It's another option to think about if you are looking for lunchboxes.

Those bees... and other new toys at KangarooBoo

2010-03-31T12:29:00.007-04:00

The bee hive that we reviewed and lots of other cute new toys from Plan are now available at KangarooBoo. Yay!

Bee Hive by Plan Toys ($27.99)

The Eco Recycling Game($27.99) might be nice for Earth Day.

But, what I really want to see are the Planimals. Arielle would love them.

Planimals Australia Series ($32.99)

Sorry, no new reviews this week. Linnea and Arielle have been very sick and it seems that it's my turn. I hope you are all out enjoying the spring weather. I'm hoping to find some nice outdoor toys and eco-friendly toys to review this month.

Our new kitchen

2010-03-22T07:29:00.002-04:00

The time had come. The play kitchen was falling apart and playing "Mommy in the kitchen" is one of Arielle and Linnea's very favorite games. We needed to replace it.

So, the old kitchen went on Craig's List and Mommy priced new kitchens. It was a pretty easy choice. I was in love with the Camden Rose Simple Hearth ($349.99) from Palumba.

Why is this kitchen so great? Let me count the ways.

1. It arrived quickly. Two days after I ordered the kitchen the FedEx man brought three big boxes to the door. The girls were very excited, but I sent them next door for their regularly scheduled play date, anyway. I'm mean.

2. It was easy for a small mommy working alone to set up. Tools needed were a Phillips head screw driver and a box cutter. Seriously, the hardest part was getting it out of the box. Then you attach the handles and the faucet, add the hutch (slides on and the tighten the screws), slide in the shelves and you are done.

I bet you're thinking "Sara, show me pictures already!"

3. It is beautiful. The kitchen is made of solid wood - sustainably harvested cherry, ash and walnut.

4. Look at all this storage space.

I like the cute shelves and that they finally have a separate cabinet for pots and pans. But what I really love is...

5. ...the wire rack in the oven. Don't ask why. It just appeals to me.

6. It has an oven! Our old kitchen did not.

7. The matching refrigerator ($299.99). It is so big. There is room for ALL the play food. Actually, when Linnea first looked inside she said "It's not full. I need to put more stuffs in there."

8. More wire racks...

9. And cool on-the-door shelves for jars and eggs.

How did the girls like it?

First, they danced on the bubble wrap.

Then Linnea went to find more stuff to put in the refrigerator. "How about the toaster?"

Then Linnea discovered cool thing #10.

10. The pull-out shelf that adds space so two kids can cook at once.

11. It came with milk and eggs.

12. It's fun. It's been a few weeks, and the girls play with the kitchen constantly.

A Toy Garden: Play silks and more Easter fun

2010-03-20T18:12:00.002-04:00

You may have noticed that many of my recent posts include brilliantly colored play silks in the background. You may also have noticed that I keep mentioning that play silks are a safe, eco-friendly alternative to Easter grass. This is because Santa Claus was very nice this year and he replaced our tattered homemade playsilks with brand new, beautiful play silks from A Toy Garden.

Since Santa had several stockings to fill, he selected the set of 12 silks for $60, but the silks come in all sorts of combinations. I love the colors in the spring set, so I'll say it again - perfect for Easter :0)

These are nice, thick, smooth and silky play silks that are woven in China, but dyed in the USA using low impact silk dyes. Play silks make great backgrounds for block cities, table cloths for doll picnics, decorations and nature tables, capes for Super Linnea, hiding places, and Arielle says, "sometimes you can bug your sister with them." Thank you, Arielle.

Here are a few pictures:

Arielle playing "nest" in a laudry basket.

Hiding from Dad. I bet you can't find Linnea.

Arielle builds a zoo.

Cassie drinks tea.

We are very happy with our new play silks. If you are buying play silks, then check out A Toy Garden for other Easter treasures. Some suggestions:

Bunny Push Toy ($18.95)

Wood Duck Family ($9.95)

Wooden Eggs ($3.95-$13.95)

The eggs come in various sizes. Arielle loves to wrap them in a play silk and pretend it is a nest. They are also great for do-it-myself decorating.

What's Hiding In There? ($15.95)

Easter is coming soon, so order soon to leave time for shipping.

Our friend Emma: Scientific Super Sleuth

2010-03-19T16:16:00.004-04:00

A few weeks ago, I was contacted by Dr. Thompson. He's a scientist who has come up with a line of science kits for children ages 9 to 12. The science kits let children learn about what real-life scientists do by asking them to solve mysteries. The young scientists are given links to a secret web site, so they can check their results along the way and learn if they've solved the mystery correctly. It sounded like a great idea. I love to encourage science, but Arielle and Linnea are just too young. I asked our friend Emma and her mom to help us out. They wrote the following review:

The other day Secret Science Team member, Emma, got a kit from Ectropy. It seems they needed a super sleuth like Emma to do a little case work for them.

Emma carefully opened the box. It contained all the evidence and the supplies needed to solve the mystery -- find out who was behind a devious plot to steal, duplicate and sell pirated video games!

Emma and her two assistants took this case rather seriously -- they followed the directions and recorded their findings in the chart that was provided -- they even carefully returned the samples to their little baggies hoping to "be scientists" again.

When she began the project, Emma thought that she'd do one or two of the experiments/observations....

but then couldn't resist doing another,

and then another,

and then another,

until she had completed the whole kit and found her results --

we went to the website provided and confirmed that she was correct! Oh the joy!

Scientist Emma wants to share this with some science loving friends of hers -- it was a lot of fun.

Emma is 10 years old and in the 5th grade, her assistants are 8 years old and in the 2nd grade. They would likely have been able to do most of this experiment on their own, but they lack a certain *carefulness* that is required. I reminded them often about not contaminating their samples.

The Secret Science Team Missions cost $34.99. All of the products Ectropy offers are designed and selected to meet National Science Education Standards. This makes them great for home school families. The Secret Science Team line is specially developed for grades 4 -7 to encourage scientific exploration, analytical reasoning, and literature. Ectropy also offers science consulting, experiment design, and science kit building services to help home school families meet NSE standards.

A shaky egg.... and other inexpensive Easter treasures

2010-03-18T14:16:00.000-04:00

Are you looking for inexpensive natural toys and toys made in the USA to fill your Easter baskets? Check out Down to Earth Toys. They have a great selection of toys under $20.

We love:

Egg Shaker ($7.25)

When Linnea saw the shaker she said "OH!" in that sort of breathless way some of us might save for the perfect pair of eco-friendly shoes. I think the egg spoke to her.

When they were younger, the girls went to music lessons where the favorite activity for toddlers was shaking an egg to a song. We played a game where we sat and sang and passed eggs around the circle. Very relaxing. Or maybe she's thinking of the Laurie Berkner song, I know a chicken. Click the link to see the YouTube video :0)

The egg is made by Jam Town. They support the makers of fair trade musical instruments around the world. The egg helps employ someone in Bali. Check out Down to Earth's extensive selection of musical instruments.

Magic Fairy Wand ($2.95)

Ari preferred the magic wand. She says, "You can do anything with a magic wand because it's magic." All you need is imagination. What a deal! But, don't turn your sister into a toad.

Felt Chocolate Easter Bunny ($8.99)

I haven't seen this in person (in bunny?). But, I love Lilly Bean play food and I'm sure it is the same great quality. How cute it would look in an Easter basket!

Sara's Toy Box readers get free shipping on orders over $10 until 4/30/2010. Just use the code "SARA" at checkout. Happy Spring to all of you!

Buzz Buzz: Plan Toys Bee Hive

2010-03-17T08:08:00.001-04:00

This is very exciting. We love Plan Toys. They make reasonably priced, natural baby toys and preschool toys out of old rubber wood trees. Eco-friendly and fun! So when Plan Toys contacted us about reviewing one of the new wooden toys that will be in stores this spring, we practically shouted "Yes, please!".

We reviewed the Plan Toys Bee Hive. This developmental toy consists of a set of six bees with matching bee hive cups and a pair of big wooden tweezers. This simple combination makes a great educational toy (and imaginative toy) for toddlers to kindergartners.

First of all, the bees can be used to learn about colors, sorting, matching and for developing hand-eye coordination. My lovely assistant Arielle will demonstrate:

Pick a bee up with the tweezers...

and drop it in the appropriately colored hive.

You can change the arrangement to make the game a little more complicated.

Can Arielle sort the bees without moving the cups? Yes, she can.

It was more of a challenge for Linnea. She's three, so she's still working out the tweezers. It's nice to see her challenged.

Despite the tweezer challenge, she had a lot of fun lining the bees up and making them "talk" to their friends.

When they were done, they flew off to their hives, and she tucked each in the appropriately colored bed.

Then Arielle has an idea!

She drew flowers. Now Linnea had to make each bee fly out of the hive and to the correct flower.

She did it! Yay!

The toy is absolutely cute, but what I love that this is a learning toy that inspired creativity. The girls looked at it, figured out what it is for, and went beyond that. That is what you expect from an open-ended learning toy.

Next they took out blocks to build their own beehives..... the bees were so happy, but my camera battery died. Maybe next time.

The Plan Toys Bee Hive will be available at Plan toy retailers later this month and on the Plan Toys website.

Thank you, Plan Toys!!!

Happy Birthday Natural Pod - save 15%

2010-03-16T13:45:00.004-04:00

Natural Pod asked me to let you all know about their birthday sale. Just in time for Easter shopping, take 15% off your purchase (including preorders) through Sunday, March 21 with the code "springbirthday2010".

Check out Natural Pod for a variety of natural toys, including Mama K's aromatic play clay (I have some in my purse). What I really love are the wooden toys - especially these birds nests ($12.99 CAD). They are the perfect gift for Arielle.

Happy Birthday, Natural Pod!

Pretty Easter purses from Warm Biscuit Bedding Company

2010-03-16T13:02:00.005-04:00

I love the idea of being creative with Easter Baskets. Seriously, do you really need lots of pastel baskets around? The Easter Bunny and I have decided that we'll look for more practical options at our house.

Arielle will be starting school soon, so instead of a basket, this year the Easter Bunny will be bringing a new backpack instead of a basket. A purse is another great suggestion. And, we got to review these cute little personalized purses from Warm Biscuit Bedding Company.

The purses ($24.00 each) are handmade in the USA and can be monogrammed with a name or initial.

As you can see, Arielle was very happy. The purse is 7"x8" - just the right size for a doll, a bunch of Easter eggs, or a few small books.

And, Linnea loved seeing her name. "R...Q...A... it says Linnea". (shhh...Linnea is not doing very well with letter recognition, but she thinks she knows everything) She loves to carry small toys around in a bag.

Both Linnea and Arielle were pleased with these very girly purses. They come in six different colors: red, pink, yellow, purple, brown and peanut butter - something to match every Easter outfit or your child's favorite creative clothing combination.

They are very well made. I love the printed lining. I had concerns about the ribbon handle, but the girls say it is beautiful. They know.

They like them best for play shopping.

Check out Warm Biscuit for a variety of personalized gifts and toys for girls and boys. Thank you for letting us review these great purses.

The winner is Ona!

2010-03-16T12:50:00.005-04:00

Ona, it is your lucky day. You are the winner of a Spring Flower Fairy or an Easter Doll from Magic Cabin.

Arielle is calling you on her pretend telephone to give you all the details, but I'll contact by email as well. Congratulations!

Thank you, Magic Cabin for sponsoring this great giveaway.

Snuggle Bunnies for your snuggle bunny

2010-03-09T09:25:00.008-05:00

A pretty box! What can it be?

It's Linnea's turn to see. "Hmm.... what is it?"

It's a bunny!

A very soft blue bunny. From Auntie Jill.

Auntie Jill makes Snuggle Bunnies in two sizes - small (6.5") and big (12"). This bunny is small. It is made of super soft blue minky fabric and has silky satin ears. A small minky bunny is $15.00. A large one is $30.00.

The ears are so much fun to play with and the bunny feels soft on Linnea's skin.

Bunny close-up. Linnea asked "Where's his legs?"

A great excuse to read The Velveteen Rabbit. Silly Linnea, stuffed rabbits need lots of love before they grow legs.

Linnea gets started on the lots of love, but first she takes a break to play with those silky ears.

She loves those ears.

"No Arielle, the bunny is mine!"

Arielle gets her turn.

The Snuggle Bunnies are handmade in Wisconsin. The bunnies make a beautiful Easter gift. Bunny, play silk, egg and a copy of The Velveteen Rabbit - perfect. '

The bunnies are available in a variety of colors and fabrics (fleece, minky and organic jersey). I'm cuddling the blue minky snuggle bunny as I write (Linnea has a play date at our neighbor's house) - so soft, and very inspiring :0) Minky just makes you want to keep petting.

The ears can be embroidered with the child's name for an additional $10. A very nice new baby gift.

Auntie Jill also makes custom stuffed animals. So, if you have been looking everywhere for a soft purple zebra... well Auntie Jill is the one to ask. There is also a page "For a Good Cause" that features animals that help raise money for good causes such as breast cancer and Parkinson's disease.

Thank you Auntie Jill. I am definitely cuddling this bunny until Linnea gets home from her play date.

Wild Apples for Easter

2010-03-08T08:02:00.002-05:00

It's a pleasure for me to be able to feature a local artist. Gunther Keil has been creating folk art and wooden toys for more than 30 year in his Wild Apples workshop. He creates wooden animal toys, push and pull toys, rolling toys, Noah's arks, puzzles and play sets out of local hardwoods including cherry, oak and walnut. Everything is smooth and natural and so beautiful; really, the pictures don't do the toys justice.

We reviewed Roley Poley Animals, a Bunny Bank, a Rabbit Pull Toy, and the Bunny Garden Play Set.

Linnea proclaimed them all "Booeeful." She immediately claimed the Rabbit Pull Toy ($13.95) for her own. (And, please focus on the toy and not the mess; we had popcorn for snack.)

Linnea is watching me type. She says she likes the wheels, but says the string is like a tag. I'm not sure what that means. It must be a three-year-old thing, but she's been having a good time walking the bunny. I think it would make an even better gift for a toddler.

The bunny bank bank was very popular. You could put the bunny bank ($18.00) with a few dollars and a play silk in a basket. My kids love banks.

Arielle has a piggy that I received at my baby shower before she was born. Linnea is jealous. She loves putting my coins in the bank. What I love is that the bottom unscrews. Too many piggy banks have the plug that comes out when they get full - or they don't come out and you break your fingernails (and perhaps the bank) trying to get to the money inside. The girls are putting my pennies in the bank.

And, feeding it carrots. Cute!

Linnea had fun making the bunny bank play with the similarly-sized case of the Bunny Garden Play Set ($67.00).

The Bunny garden Play Set is just beautiful. I love the little details: pumpkin, carrot, lettuce, little red cardinal, sun flower, squirrel, bunny... and they all store in the bunny box. Again, just put this and a play silk in a basket and you are set!

Arielle and Linnea had such a great time with this. When it is not being played with, it makes a nice spring decoration for a nature table.

We like bunnies, but if your child prefers Easter Dinosaurs, check out the Brontosaurus Habitat. And, browse the Wild Apples site for plenty of other dinosaur options.

Finally, we reviewed the Roley Poley Animals ($4.75 each). Linnea liked the chimpanzee best.

She had lots of fun with all the "animal cars". These make a nice little addition to an Easter basket and are the perfect size to carry in a purse or diaper bag.

I can't emphasize this enough, it is all even prettier in real life.

(Pssst.... If you look at the picture on his website, you will see that Gunther Keil looks an awful lot like a very famous toy maker.... hmmm... and this is pretty far north.... The toys look like he might have elvish helpers.... What do you think?) Kidding aside, thank you very much Gunther Keil and thank you Wild Apples.

Hippity, Hoppity...Easter's on its way! Beautiful dolls from Magic Cabin...

2010-03-02T14:40:00.012-05:00

....AND A GIVEAWAY!!!!

After months of gloomy weather, March has brought sunny skies, temperatures above freezing and muddy shoes. It's a nice change for me to review Easter gifts and to think of spring.

Magic Cabin goes all out for holidays. I look forward to their spring catalog. They always have the cutest dolls, neat egg decorating kits, and even made in the USA treats. I like the sets of German nesting eggs ($19.98) for hiding small treasures.

Arielle and Linnea got to review a Spring Flower Fairy and an Easter Doll ($34.98 each).

These are wonderful Easter gifts for the little girls in your life.

These 7 inch dolls are made by Kathe Kruse of Germany. They come in a pretty pouch...

...and would look adorable tucked into an Easter basket. What a nice alternative to the traditional stuffed bunny! After all, if you give your child an Easter bunny every year, they'll multiply like rabbits :0)

Here's the Daffodil doll tucked into Arielle's purse. (We'll be reviewing the purses later this week.)

Lucky us, the dolls are pink (Arielle's favorite color) and yellow (Linnea's favorite). Linnea was very excited, but said the doll was "not quite bootiful."

Then she proceeded to undress the doll. The fact that the clothing (and the flower) is removable is a big plus for Linnea.

After she dressed the doll by herself, the doll named "Lila" was pronounced perfect.

Arielle is more grown-up. She told me, "I love the pretty pink dress and she has princess hair. Her name is Daisy and she is the Easter Bunny's helper. She gives the eggs out and makes the baskets when the Easter Bunny needs a break."

A close up of Daisy without the removable basket of felt Easter Eggs.

Daisy and Lila have been very busy picnicking and attending tea parties with the other dolls and the stuffed bunnies from three Easters ago. Daisy is especially fond of strawberry tea.

Seven inches is also the perfect size to tuck in a backpack.

And, like all Kathe Kruse dolls, these dolls are beautifully made and will stand up to lots of love. In future years, they will look adorable on a seasonal or nature table. I can just picture the doll, a jar of daffodils, and some decorated eggs on a pink play silk.

But even better, one lucky reader will win an Easter Doll or Spring Flower Fairy of their choice. All you have to do is go to Magic Cabin and tell me what you'd like to put in an Easter basket. You can post a comment with a link here or on Facebook - just make sure I can contact you if you win. I will randomly choose a winner on March 15th.

Thank you, Magic Cabin. Check them out for more Easter treats and don't forget to sign up for the mailing list so you can find out about free shipping deals and coupon codes.

And, thank you readers. Stay tuned for more Easter reviews.

Rambling about the grandparent question...

2010-02-26T09:45:00.007-05:00

I am often asked, "I love natural toys, but my parents shower the kids with made-in-China junk. How can I encourage grandparents, friend, aunts and uncles to buy safe, open-ended, natural toys?"

That's a tough one. Despite the fact that they read my blog, I have a few relatives who insist on buying the glittery books with made-in-China jewelry that they find on clearance racks. I subtly say. "Oh how pretty. Do you know jewelry included with books often contains deadly amounts of lead?" (barely an exaggeration there) and, guess what - the next holiday we get more.

I know a gift is a gift, not an obligation. I do appreciate the thought; however, it is not so much fun to tell the kids, "We can look at the book with mommy, but that pretty necklace needs to stay inside". I know that the little locket will end up in someone's mouth.

Gifts should bring smiles, not tears.

So I tried a new tactic. I decided the girls wanted a Plan City collection. And, when people asked what they are into I said "Oh, they really love Plan City right now. They can play all day and there's so many pieces they'd like to have." And then I send a link to KangarooBoo with our discount code. And, some relatives really liked that. I will be posting a review of Plan City if I can ever get a picture without extra clutter. As soon as they build their city, they fill it with finger puppets and blocks and other toys....

But, I got off the subject. I was planning to tell you about Aunt Linda and Whimsmoore.

Aunt Linda is a member of the Handmade Toy Alliance. I have a button on my blog that says "Help save handmade". This is the group that is working to modify the CPSIA. And, they are continuing to do a great job of making sure that handmade toys are available.

Aunt Linda's answer to the grandparent question is "The Elf Toy of the Month" Club from Whimsmoore. Grandparents can buy 12 month subscriptions for $29.95 a month, or they can buy months individually. Each month contains an original book about the elves of Glimmer Glen and a toy or an activity. I haven't seen these and I know nothing about quality, but I do know that Aunt Linda looks for the safest options for these toys. April includes a beautiful sugar Easter Egg. (ETA check out aunt Linda's comment for more info.)

I have other friends who create Amazon wish lists for each child.

If you have a great suggestion, post a comment. I'm sure everyone wants to know.

Free shipping at Down to Earth Toys

2010-02-24T08:38:00.009-05:00

Down To Earth Toys is offering Sara's Toy Box readers free shipping on purchases over $10. Use code "SARA" at checkout. The code is good until 4/30/2010, so you can use it for Easter shopping.

Down to Earth Toys offers a large selection of toys made in the U.S.A. Personally, they are one of my favorites :0) because I know that everything they sell is natural and safe.

My latest favorite new arrival are the walnut castle blocks ($118.95 for the large set)

I think I'm going to have to start saving. Arielle just came over and said, "That looks like a fairy house!" I can just see little fairy dolls making a home with dandelion beds and daisy chairs.

Down to Earth also has a large selection of toys under $20. That's more budget friendly!

The Roy Toy earth Friendly Tree House($17.00) looks like fun. There are several sets of Roy Toys available. They are an updated and eco-friendly building toy similar to Lincoln Logs.

Our very favorite, of course, is the Organic Sock Monkey ($19.95) from Maggie's Organics. Linnea's monkey Poo-Poo is still her constant companion and still holding up to three-year-old love. I just took of Linnea and Poo-Poo watching "Super Why".

It looks like Poo-Poo needs another trip through the washer. Hanging out with Linnea isn't the cleanest job.

Thoughts of spring...

2010-02-23T14:29:00.005-05:00

We're expecting a nice snow storm tonight, but I'm tired of winter and it seems like it's time to think about spring.

Arielle is certainly dressed for it.

Her crown and wand are from Her Flying Horses. I love Her Flying Horses for reasonably priced, handmade dress-up clothes. The wands and crowns would make excellent Easter gifts or are a nice way to think spring. Wands are $14 for a set of two and crowns are $16.

We got these last Easter and they've stood up well to lots of play.

The bright flamenco dress was a gift from nice Uncle Jeremy who went to Spain.

While I'm talking spring, I promised to mention Violet's Peapod. Violet's Peapod offers made in the USA sleep sacks for babies.

Check out the pink pixies sleep sack ($53.95)

If only I had a baby... They come in sizes up to 24 months and there are several designs available.

I believe Arielle is playing Princess and the Pea. She's carefully placing a bead under a pile of play silks and then pretending to toss and turn. Too funny.

I've got some great Easter reviews lined up in the next few weeks. I hope spring comes to all of us soon.

PromiseBrand: All Natural Wood Toys

2010-02-19T14:19:00.006-05:00

Sometimes, when I have a few minutes, I do web searches on "natural toys" and "toys made in the U.S.A." and, of course, I find some favorites like Down To Earth Toys and Palumba, but sometimes I find wonderful new toys to write about

PromiseBrand wooden toys are so gorgeous, I had to share. Look!

Alphabet blocks $68

These blocks are big - 3"x3"x3". what a wonderful idea for a new baby gift. Picture blocks are also available individually ($6.50 each), so you could spell out a new baby's name.

PromiseBrand toys are made of just three ingredients: wood, edible linseed oil and eco-friendly, non-toxic milk paint. Very natural and very safe. Everything is hand made by a family-owned business in Bend, Oregon.

In addition to the large alphabet blocks, PromiseBrand makes building blocks, small square blocks, child-sized rocking chairs, a giant bi-plane puzzle and tic-tac-toe game. You can also purchase milk paint for your own projects.

Building Blocks from reclaimed juniper ($45-$95)

Check out all the beautiful toys at PromiseBrand.

I am sorry that the blogs been slow. I appreciate those of you that keep coming back and would like to welcome our new readers. There are more reviews coming soon. We are moving soon and half the toys are packed. Once we're settled in, the blog will be back on a more regular basis.

Giveaway at Umm Qais

2010-02-05T08:33:00.003-05:00

Charlotte, a reader and the mom who writes Umm Qais, asked if I would let you all know about her giveaway.

She has a Waldorf birthday ring that she is giving away. All you have to do is comment on her blog post to enter. She'll announce the winner on February 11.

Good luck! And while you are there, check out her blog. She writes about cooking, crafts and being a mom.

Baby's Toy Emporium

2010-01-29T10:39:00.004-05:00

Are you looking for natural baby toys made in the USA?

That is all that Baby's Toy Emporium sells. Carrie, the mom behind the store, offers handmade bears and dolls, wooden toys, building sets, books, felts, soft dough, and more - all natural, eco-friendly and made in the USA.

Check out the adorable Bundle Babies ($12.99)

Oh, this looks like fun for Arielle! Arielle would enjoy writing a real book - hmm... I bet it would be about birds.

Illustory ($12.00)

In addition to toys, Baby's Toy Emporium offers a selection of baby clothing and baby care items.

The blankets look so soft!

Aroma Blanket ($38.00)

Baby's Toy Emporium has offered our readers 10% off any felt storybooks. The code is "Sara" There is free shipping with purchases of $95 and a free gift with purchases of $75 or more.

Bamboletta Raffle for Haiti

2010-01-17T22:44:00.003-05:00

Bamboletta Dolls is raffling off a doll to raise money for the victims of the earthquake in Haiti. The proceeds will go to Doctors Without Borders. Click here to learn more.

Raffle tickets are just $10, and the doll (like all Bambolettas) is gorgeous. The winner will also get a $100 giftcard from Reggie's Doll and a clothing ensemble from Silly Con, so she'll be the best dressed doll ever.

A purple kangaroo?! But of course!

2010-01-09T22:20:00.016-05:00

Kangas and Dragons and Owls! Oh my!

I was in serious need this Christmas. I needed a miracle. I needed...a purple kangaroo. You see, little Alli is obsessed with that mean old kangaroo from Horton Hears a Who. If you have seen the movie version then you may know that the evil pouched marsupial is purple. Purple!

My poor girl turned mama kangaroo was "Humph"ing around the house with a raggedy orange bear tucked in her shirt. Clearly she needed a purple kangaroo to put in her own pouch. But how? How?!?!

Well I asked around for a purple kangaroo and lo' and behold our own dear Sara found BeastieVille. BeastieVille is home to many creatures, most importantly, this custom made fellow:

This adorable creature was handmade by a lovely artisan named Sarah. Sarah was a dream and a half to work with. So helpful and quick to respond. When our roo got here I nearly cried. A Christmas miracle indeed.

The work is beautiful, the hand stitching neat and the craftsmanship impeccable. Our fellow came wrapped in tissue paper and smelled, that's right, smelled amazing. I have no idea what the smell was but it was light and fresh. I am not one to love scents, I usually don't even burn scented candles, but the smell was perfect. I could hardly wait for Christmas!

Alli was a big fan. She squealed when she saw her roo and when humphing around the house. She wouldn't even open the rest of the gifts for quite some time. Here you can see the roo being tortured by Ariel. Clearly the mermaid turned human is too large and needs to be kicked out of the pouch ASAP.

"Hop! Hop! Hop!" says Alli!

I think that roo fits right in with the princesses. He is purple after all, and maybe he likes having a pouch, though he be male. I like the way the arms and head are attached with buttons. Very cute. This also allows the parts to be moved. I love the way our roo cocks his head. Cheeky fellow!

I asked Sarah what her favorite Beastie was. If you promise not to tell the other Beasties I will tell you...shhh...it's the dragon. I tend to agree and think that my son, Jackson would have a lot of fun taming this Beastie.

I personally love this owl. This particular Beastie is reserved for an Etsy customer but I have found that the custom ordering process with BeastieVille is amazing...so do it!

Sarah has been kind enough to offer our readers a coupon code.

When you place your order, from the in-stock store or when requesting a custom Beasite doll just mention this blog and you will receive either 10% off or free shipping, whichever is greater. Hooray for Beastiville!

Linnea's birthday gift: Baking Set

2010-01-04T09:01:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year!

I hope 2010 brings you joy and love and lots of creative play.

I'm going to be reviewing my holiday purchases this month, but first, I need to review Linnea's birthday gifts. It is really hard to find a good big birthday gift for Linnea. Her birthday is in November, which is our busy month for reviewing toys. And, even with all the toys coming through here, I still want her birthday present to stand out.

Maybe because I love my Kitchen Aid mixer so much, when I saw this set, I knew it was something Linnea would love.

Honeybake Wooden Baking Set ($79.99)

The Wooden Baking Set from Le Toy Van is made in Indonesia. The wooden food mixer has a whisk that moves when a child turns the dial. The set also includes a cute rolling pin, a pretend play knife and baking tray, an apron made of gingham and canvas (and says "do not wash"), 4 cupcakes with interchangeable toppings, a sliceable Velcro roll-cake, a donut, a jelly cookie, a layered pastry and a cake stand. It was all really nice, except the apron which was pretty flimsy and seemed to have some kind of starchy finish. Compared to everything else, it looked like it was just thrown in.

Linnea did love it (and Arielle, too). The dolls have been treated to numerous tea parties.

A close up of the mixer and rolling pin.

Arielle bakes cookies.

Lilli loves cupcakes. She looks ready to dive in.

Cassie prefers yellow frosting. The frosting and the toppings come off and can be switched around, so every doll can have just what she likes.

Anna-Paola enjoys cupcakes, too. She's a little older and uses her spoon.

Mommy Linnea helps cut up the food. Using the "big knife" is a big deal. She feels so grown up.

And, then my camera battery died.

This is a very nice play set for little mommies and a fun addition to any toy kitchen. I thought it was a bit pricey, but the girls play with it daily. And, the dolls love all the treats.

Happy Holidays!

2009-12-20T20:12:00.003-05:00

Holiday greetings from the snowy North!

I was hoping to get a few more posts done before the holidays, but I am just wiped out! We've got a house full of college kids. Lots of fun.

Have a very merry Christmas! We'll be back with more reviews after Christmas and lots of fun ideas for cold, snowy days.

Have a most wonderful holiday season.
-Sara, Arielle and Linnea.

A winner!

2009-12-15T20:19:00.001-05:00

I just wanted to congratulate Candace, the winner of the Mudpuppy U.S.A floor puzzle.
Congratulations, Candace!

Map of the U.S.A. Floor Puzzle ($17.00)

Stuff a stocking winners!

2009-12-12T09:31:00.004-05:00

The winner of the Stubby Pencil Studio gift card is The Sefton Family.

The little Sefton girls like aprons!

Apron Flora Blue ($19.95)

The winner of the A Toy Garden gift card is Anne (Claire's mommy).

Anne says that Claire would like a silk streamer.

Silk streamer ($9.95)

Congratulations to both our winners! Happy holidays!

It's award time!

2009-12-11T07:55:00.002-05:00

Drum roll.... Introducing, our Second Annual Awards post. For last years winners, click here.

All the toys we reviewed were the nominees - and this year, we reviewed an awful lot of toys! The winners are the toys that got the most play and were best loved.

Again, we have no shiny statues or great big checks. Just a virtual hug and a big, fat "Thank you very much!!!"

SECOND ANNUAL SARA'S TOY BOX TOP TEN TOY AWARDS

1. Best eco-friendly toy: Green Toys Recycled Plastic Recycling Truck ($24.99)

Green Toys are made from 100% recycled plastics. They are phthalate free and BPA free. A recycled a recyclable recycling truck - can you get more eco-friendly that that?

My girls love to fill the back of the truck with small toys and bits of paper. You can read the original review here.

2. Best American-made toy: Foldable Gnome House ($19.95)

Not only is this toy made in the USA, but it is one of the most open-ended toys we reviewed this year (Keva Planks would also qualify). The Gnome House is used all the time. It can be a castle, house, barn - the possibilities are as unlimited as a child's imagination. And, it folds flat for travel.

Mothering Magazine agrees with us, they selected the Foldable Gnome House as one of the Best Natural Toys of 2009!

3. Best Toy Under $10: Mary's Softdough

We like Mary's Softdough so much, that after we reviewed it, we reviewed it again!

This is my very best, dependable "I need to keep my children busy, so I can get something done" trick. It will usually keep them occupied for at least an hour. And, there's no TV guilt. Mary's Softdough is made of flour, water, salt, cream of tartar, soybean oil, food coloring and sodium benzoate (a food preservative that keeps it from getting moldy so it can be used for up to a year). It comes in every one's favorite colors and scents and even with sparkles (Linnea's favorite color is sparkly).

4. Best Outdoor Toy: The Sand Play Castle ($22.98)

It has to be the best sand toy ever! Moms, dads, older sibling all wanted to play with this neat construction/sand toy made in the Czech Republic. The sieves, funnels, wheels, strainers and levers can be placed in endless configurations and they actually move sand (or water) from top to bottom. I suppose that it could be used in the bath as well. We'll have to try that.

5. Best Learning Toy:

Ugh! How can I choose? The scale from Rosie Hippo, the Bajo Abacus, the learning clock from Plan Toys, the Mudpuppy map puzzle and the I can spell! alphabet puzzle were all very helpful while home schooling this year. But, can I really say academic learning is more valuable than the kind of learning that comes from imaginative play?

Oh, I know... the Nature Bag! We had a great time learning about the outdoors this summer. The magnifying glass is a big favorite for indoor play and for examining the treasures that the girls bring inside for the science and nature table.

Nature Bag ($34.95)

6. Best Travel Toy: Calafant ($6.99 and up)

Tree house ($24.99)

When my husband has to travel for work, we like to go with him. Bu,t sometimes that means that the kids and I are stuck in the hotel waiting for him for many hours. one mom can take only so much elevator riding. The last hotel didn't even have kid-friendly TV.

Calafant toys travel flat. You put them together and make a toy. You give the kids the emergency crayons from your purse, and the kids decorate the toy. This takes a nice while and it doesn't make a mess in your hotel room. There are no little pieces to leave behind. The kids play with it, and if there's no room to bring it home, it gets recycled. Or, if you are visiting relatives, you can leave it at Grandma's house for next time.

If you really want to get creative, draw little people on the hotel's note pad. Otherwise, grab the bag of finger puppets/gnomes/tiny dolls from the car.

Calafant is made in China and designed in Germany. It won the Toy Innovation Award in 2006 for creativity. And now it wins the prestigious Sara's Toy Box award ;0)

7. Best Toy to Grow With: Extra-Large Rainbow Arches ($79.95)

I love this picture of our friend Tess creating a work of art.

The arches are such a versatile toy. The rainbow arches go from being a simple to stacking toy to to being the scenery for complicated games of make-believe. They are ever so useful as tunnels and seesaws, and when turned on their side, they make excellent wooden animal cages.

I bet this is the toy that Arielle's children will be asking to play with.

8. Best Building/Stacking Toy: Keva Planks Set of 200 ($63.95).

Keva planks are sets of American-made, maple blocks where each block is exactly the same size (1 in. x 4.5 in. x .25 in.). They are perfectly sized for building just about anything a child or adult can imagine. They are open-ended, all-natural, made in the USA, and suitable for all ages, so the whole family can play.

I am betting they see a lot of action in the next month when the big brothers are home from college.

Twig Blocks were a close second.

9. Best toy with wheels: Playforever Bruno Roadster ($59.99)

I think the picture says it all.

Linnea is in love, and this tough race car is built to handle that love and everything else that a three year old can dish out. The car is made in England and is meant to be played with forever.

10. Best art supply / craft project

Can I just put all of Stubby Pencil Studio in this category?

No?

Sigh.

Well, we reviewed these kits so many times, and chances are good that I will mention them again.

"Made by Me" kits ($4.00)

The kits win because of the very proud look that I see on my children's faces when they complete one of these cars "all by myself".

SPECIAL AWARDS

Linnea's Toy of the Year: Poo-Poo the Organic Sock Monkey ($19.95) is made from Maggie's Organic socks that would otherwise be destined for landfills. Poo-Poo has been Linnea's well-loved friend since the moment that we opened the box in March. Linnea sleeps with Poo-Poo, eats with Poo-Poo, drags Poo-Poo everywhere and plays with Poo-Poo. There was a moment when the nice greeter at the supermarket asked Linnea, "What's your little monkey's name?" She yelled "Poo-Poo!"

Anyway, it's a good thing that Poo-Poo is machine washable.

This is one of my favorite Linnea pictures.

Arielle's Toy of the Year: This was a tough one because I wanted Arielle to choose. "Which toy do you love best Arielle?" But, she kept saying I have lots of toys that I love. So, I rephrased the question. When I asked Arielle, "If you were going to tell all the mommies which toy their kids would really love, what would it be?" With no hesitation, she said the Rocket Ship.

Rocket Ship ($77.95)

This is a great toy for imaginative play (and would look really nice in a space-themed room). It also doubles as a tower for Rapunzel.

Kiwi Magazine agrees with Arielle; they listed the rocket ship as one of the top eco-friendly toys of 2009.

Eleanor's Toy of the Year: Chalet Dollhouse by Plan Toys ($179.99)

Eleanor bought the house for Alli's third birthday gift. The dollhouse is made up of two units which can be joined or separated in different ways for different play possibilities. And, I hope that Eleanor will write a review because it looks awesome!

Toy store of the year: A Toy Garden

This is always the hardest decision. I get to know many of the people behind the toys and stores that I write about, and for me this is like choosing among friends - there are several stores that I could have chosen and each one is special. So, I ask other moms. And, I look at reader responses. Sonya and A Toy Garden have been friends to the blog since we started. This year, I had so many people ask if and when we were going to get a coupon code; it was obvious that A Toy Garden is a favorite. So, extra congratulations to Sonya and A Toy Garden.

Click here for our original A Toy Garden store review.

Congratulations to all our winners.

The winner is Lindsay

2009-12-10T17:56:00.003-05:00

Lindsay on the Wonderworld Tea Set from Toys and Games Online.

Congratulations, Lindsay!

Wonderworld Tea Time Play Set ($26.00)

Don't forget to enter to win the Stubby Pencil Studio and A Toy Garden gift card giveaways that end tomorrow! The winner will be announced on Saturday.

Holiday Books

2009-12-10T13:27:00.011-05:00

At our house, Santa always brings books. A few people have asked for book suggestions, and here are a few of our favorites.

Disclosure: The links go to Amazon. Sara's Toy Box is an Amazon affiliate and when you buy these books, 4% of your purchase goes to support the blog.

My Friend Rabbit ($12.21)

This is Arielle's absolute favorite. She calls it "Rabbit and Mouse". In the story, Rabbit causes Mouse's plane to get stuck in a tree. Rabbit then comes up with a silly idea to rescue the plane. Arielle loves to make up stories about what happens next. The book is a 2003 Caldecott Award winner.

We're Going on a Bear Hunt: A Celebratory Pop-up Edition ($17.99)

And this classic story is Linnea's favorite book. She asks for this story every night. It's about a family that goes looking for a bear (why?) and finds one (uh oh!). The words are catchy, and she has most of the memorized so she reads along. When we go for walks, we make up our own extra verses like "Uh oh! an ocean. A deep blue ocean. Can't go over it. Can't go under it. Got to go through it. Glub Glub Glub Glub..."

The Princess and the Pea ($11.55)

Arielle loves princess books and another favorite of Arielle's, this is a beautifully illustrated and fun (slightly silly) retelling of the classic fairy tale. The story is illustrated with color photographs of 3-D collage. It proves what fans of Charlie and Lola (another big favorite in my house) know, Lauren Childs is a genius. This book should be an award winner!

Arielle says to also mention Go Away, Big Green Monster! ($7.91)

This was the very first book that Arielle read all by herself. It's suitable for two year olds, but still fun for older children. The book is illustrated with bright-colored pages with cut out illustrations. First the scary monster appers, and then he slowly disappears. Great for kids who are worried about scary things in the dark.

More favorites!

Stranger in the Woods: A Photographic Fantasy ($13.57)

Russell the Sheep ($12.95)

Princess Baby, Night-Night ($10.19)

The Three Pigs ($10.88)

And absolutely anything by Mo Willems especially Knuffle Bunny and the Elephant and Piggie books.

I hope these suggestions help and that you enjoy them as much as we do. Happy reading!