Vtech Toys Review – Educational and Fun

15/09/2015 By All Mum Said Leave a Comment

Technology in kids toys changes way too fast these days. It is a constant battle between allowing kids to use their imaginations and keeping them informed with the ever-changing way of the world.

Thankfully there are brands out there that understand this desire and design toys with a combination of elements involved. Vtech have been purchased from the shopping shelves for years because of their knowledge and willingness to adapt to the times whilst maintaining an element of old school. This is why we love Vtech!

For the past few weeks, my kids have been giving some Vtech toys a road test. I must say they arrived at the absolute perfect time because I have been so sick I can barely move from the couch, and these have kept them entertained and happy. *Thanks kids for sharing those delightful germs, next time leave them where you found them!

Vtech Toys Review

Turn & Learn Cube – RRP $29.00 – 6 to 36 months

Little hands love this cube! With something exciting, flashing or colourful on each of its 5 sides; they will never stop learning. This Turn & Learn Cube encourages discovery and exploration from a young age. The light up buttons introduce your little ones to new animals, shapes, colours and sounds.

The development of fine motor skills are crucial for toddlers. This is why Vtech have included manipulative features in addition to fun songs that are activated when the cube is moved. Your child will learn language development, tune those motor skills and progress into imaginative play with this conveniently sized play cube.

Play & Learn Aeroplane – RRP $20.00 – 6 to 36 months

Watch your child grow with the Play and Learn Aeroplane. It has features to help them progress in many levels of development; language, sensory and fine motor skills. Your baby or toddler will not only have fun pulling along the aeroplane but also learning music, spinning the propeller and watching the lights flash.

For the parents; the durable design also features an automatic shut off to preserve the battery life.

Kidizoom Twist Plus Camera – RRP $89.95 – 3 to 9 years

This camera is built with kids and little hands in mind! The child friendly design allows for a degree of impact when being dropped without any broken parts or functions. The Kidizoom camera makes it easy for children to change the effects and filters on the camera, which according to my kids is the funniest thing ever possible!

The features of this camera are endless which is more than likely why my all three of my kids love it so much.

Features include:

Twisting lens – makes selfies easy!

Over 50 Colour filters and effects – carnival mirror, funny faces, cartoon themes and so much more.

2.0 Megapixel camera

Video and voice recording

Photo editing

5x Built-in games

4x Digital zoom

Built-in auto flash

The batteries in this camera don’t drain like you would expect them to; the kids have been snapping like the paparazzi for a week now and the batteries are still going strong!

Kidizoom Smart Watch – RRP $89.95 – 5 to 12 years

Learning to tell the time can be tough but with the help of the Kidizoom Smart Watch, your child will have the desire to learn as fast as they can!

This smart watch is so much more than a just a watch; it has 8 amazing features in one compact band. My boys are still fighting over who gets to use this more!

Features include:

Clock – analogue and digital display options. 50+ face designs.

Voice recorder & distortion – 5 fun effects to alter their voices.

Stopwatch & timer – What child doesn’t want to time everything they possibly can?!

Games – 3 built-in

Alarm – child can select to use their own voice or one of ten different alarm tones included in the watch.

Camera – YES! It is basically like a spy watch. They can take pictures and videos and add effects to alter the image.

Everything kids love all in one touch screen, watch sized piece of technology. As you can understand, it would be crazy difficult for the kids to not love these Vtech toys. They are a mix of learning, imagination and a lot of fun!

Check out Vtech on Facebook and Instagram for more amazing products.

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WIN WIN WIN – Oh also if you want to win yourself some Vtech goodies –

Rebel Without A Pause has some to giveaway; check out the competition here!

Motherpedia – Enter here.

Disclosure: I received the above toys for the purpose of this review. All opinions are my own or those of my kids.

Storksak Catherine Review + Discount + Giveaway

10/09/2015 By All Mum Said 52 Comments

As you all know, I am expecting a baby in the first week of November. As a result of the pregnancy being quite the surprise, we had already given majority of our baby things away. And like most parents will agree, a nappy bag is a ‘must have’ baby item for the first year, at least!

This is why I couldn’t have been more thrilled when I received an email from the lovely team at Storksak; telling me about their new release of Spring/Summer 2015 bags. I am a huge fan of Storksak. I have been for years. When I found out I was pregnant with Poppet (now 2 years old) I invested in a black EMILY NYLON. I hoped it would last longer being more expensive and I am so glad I got it. It is still in near perfect condition today! Just goes to show sometimes spending that bit extra does indeed bring a higher level of quality.

Storksak Catherine Review

Anyway, today I want to share with you my latest and very much loved CATHERINE leather bag. She is just gorgeous! I have the Bordeaux colour and I must say that the image online does not do it any justice, it is a divinely rich shade that complements a chic appearance with practicality.

What do I love about this bag?

There are several things I adore about the Catherine bag and I know many of you lovely mums-to-be and new mums will understand completely!

Features Features Features!

Firstly, there is nothing quite like the smell of new leather being unwrapped. It makes those senses go tingly with excitement. I just love the slouchy appearance, it is my style completely!

Exterior

Handles – There are 2 straps standard with the Catherine. Short ones which make the bag the perfect length to wear under your arm and a detachable padded long leather strap. The long detachable strap offers more than just the ability to wear it over it your shoulder or across your body though, it also features Velcro straps that make it perfect for carrying on your stroller or pram. It really is genius thinking!
Storage – There are three zipped storage pockets located on the exterior of the bag. Two are discreetly located on the front and are slightly larger than my hand when it is stretched out. The other is on the side and is an insulated bottle pocket.
Protection – On the base of the nappy bag, there are four circular studs that protect the bag when placed on the ground. No more worrying whether you will scuff or scratch the leather.

Interior

Storage – This bag offers storage that every parent needs. You will never complain about the lack of it in this particular bag (or the Emily). Internally this bag features 6 storage pockets.

Three are great for snack or bottle storage, one is enclosed with a zip and the other two are larger. I find these particularly handy for nappy sacks, nappy rash cream and sanitiser.

Main compartment – this section of the bag is massive and can cater to whatever you need to hold. Nappies, wipes, spare clothes, bottles, formula, breast pump and possibly even a blanket!

Inclusions

Storage – Just in case you didn’t already have enough storage; there is an additional removable zippered pouch inside the bag. It features a matching leather trim and is perfect for a spare set of clothes, pain relief/medicines, etc.

Changing mat – This is one thing every good nappy bag needs. An included changing mat for when you are out and about. I love that this one folds up small enough to be practical and fits into the bag with everything else. It is sturdy enough to machine wash without being damaged as well.

Size

It is an impressive size at H34 x W47 x D14 cm

I love that it is not overly huge but it is large enough to be convenient and looks amazing!

Quality

As mentioned at the beginning of the review, I trust Storsak to provide nothing but quality after my previous bag is still going strong after years of abuse use. The Catherine bag I have is made with soft leather but I don’t feel like I have to be extremely gentle with it, which is ideal.

STORKSAK DISCOUNT

I have an amazing discount for All Mum Said readers who have always wanted to get their hands on a Storsak bag but haven’t been able to part with the cash.
A whopping 25% OFF!!

This 25% discount can be used on ALL Storksak bags! Visit www.storksak.com.au to view their amazing range and get your Storksak bag now. Use CODE: MUM25.

*Please note this Storksak discount code is only available for Australia and New Zealand customers.

PRIZE INCLUDES: 1x Catherine Nylon bag in Moss or Navy (winners choice). RRP $270.00.

**As the winners are chosen based on skill and not chance; you will be sharing for 0 extra entries however I’d love you to share the giveaway with friends and family. Sharing is caring and karma loves kind people. **

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Terms & Conditions:
1. Australian residents only.
2. Judges decisions is final.
3. Winners must make contact within 72 hours.
4. This is a game of skill. Chance plays no part!
Therefore no extra points are given for sharing however it is good karma!!
5. All Mum Said is not responsible for delivery of prize.
NOT endorsed by or have anything to do with facebook.

If you want to enter more giveaways click over here.

Disclosure: I received the above Storksak Catherine bag for the purpose of this review. All opinions are my own.

Take A Ride With Thule Urban Glide Review

31/08/2015 By All Mum Said Leave a Comment

With a new baby only weeks away; the search for a quality pram that is going to be comfortable for the bub or toddler and easy for me to walk (ideally jog with), became a high priority. Thankfully the search didn’t require a great deal of effort as I was offered the new Thule Urban Glide to review.

As I unwrapped the box and started putting the sports stroller together, I started to experience the kind of excitement that gives you butterflies in your belly. It could have been a combination of elation from the appearance or the new pram smell but one thing I do know is; this pram is a machine!

Thule Urban Glide Review

Ride and feel

Thule have been making quality products and accessories for cars and motorhomes since 1942. Products include: roof racks, sports and travel bags/cases, bike trailers, tents and now sports strollers. With that many years of experience I was expecting great things and I was not disappointed!

It rides smoothly on every surface; gravel, grass, concrete and dirt. They are no match for the Thule Urban Glide. It weighs only 10.5kg so no more than your average 2 year old, which means any parent will be able to manoeuvre it and lift it into the car with ease.

Appearance

The stroller is stylish and comes in three colour options; Dark Shadow, Mars and Thule Blue. I opted for black (dark shadow) because I find I can keep it cleaner, or perhaps the black just allows me think it is cleaner. The fabric is nice and thick with a comfortable padded seat to sit and lay on; my 2 year old daughter loves it, but that could simply be because it has drink/toy pockets on the inside.

The Thule Urban Glide offers a sleek appearance with its brushed silver frame and practicality that cannot be faulted!

Safety features

Safety is the most important thing to consider when purchasing anything baby and child related. This is why it am pleased to say that this sports stroller meets safety standards and features a 5-point child safety harness. To unlatch the harness; you must squeeze in both side clips and press the red clip simultaneously.

The multi-position canopy is a genius design. You can have it positioned anywhere that is convenient for you and your child based on the suns direction. In addition to the sun safety factor, when your baby or child is laying down you can pop forward the shade and see directly down or simply use the roof port to see your child.

The foot brake is easy to use and is as simple as pushing it down with your foot to lock, you will feel it click into place. To unlock, takes a little bit more strength to flick it up but I figure it means the brake won’t pop up without you doing so.

The front wheel can be locked for stability while jogging or used freely when out and about for easy manoeuvrability around the streets and shopping centres. It features rear suspension that makes rougher terrain smoother for your child and the large back wheels also help to absorb impact while in use.

Versatility and ease of use

I am considerably shorter than my husband so an adjustable handle is a must for us. This pram has one that offers various options by simply holding the blue buttons in and adjusting to a comfortable height.

My favourite feature of the Thule Urban Glide is the adjustable toggle control reclinable seat; it can be set from sitting position to laying near flat and anywhere in between. The choice is entirely up to you and your child where it is set. The maximum sitting height for a child is 53cm, shoulder width of 34cm and weight of 34kg.

Because parents want convenience and don’t want to spend unnecessary time unclipping, dismantling and packing away their pram; Thule have opted for one of the quickest and easiest folding mechanisms that can be done with one hand! It is as easy as lifting the flap, turning the lever and lifting. The folded dimensions are 35 cm x 53 cm x 87.5 cm.

The zippered storage compartment under the stroller is not to be laughed at either! It is impressive in size and can hold so much more than I thought it would. The pram also features additional mesh pockets for convenience.

For those parents that carry a bottle of water or cup of coffee in the drinks compartment of their pram; this stroller doesn’t come standard with one however you can purchase the console separately for $69. This was a must for me and I have to say that for an additional accessory, it is sturdy and reliable. It doesn’t Velcro on – it actually clips and secures so you know it isn’t going anywhere!

Purchase it

The Thule Urban Glide can be purchased from your local Babies R Us, Baby Bunting and leading independents retailers for $749. This pram includes an impressive 10 year frame warranty which goes to show how much Thule believe in their products! To find your local stockist to purchase or take for a test ride, visit Thule.

At a glance

Pros

Stylish design

Suitable for all terrains

Adjustable handle

Toggle control reclinable seat

Five point harness

Quick fold technology

Multi-position canopy

Large storage compartment

Foot brake

10 year frame warranty

Cons

Doesn’t lay completely flat for newborns

Drink tray not standard

I would say that this pram is a force to be reckoned with when compared to its competitors. It has everything an active family could want or need. I love that Thule have chosen to focus on the appearance and essential features and have left out the glitz because they know what works and they do it well!

If you are a parent looking at getting back into shape, enjoy jogging with your child or want a stroller to take on family adventures; this is it! You will not be disappointed, I wasn’t.

What is your must have feature in a stroller/pram?

Disclosure: I received the Thule Urban Glide for the purpose of this review. All opinions are my own.

Love To Dream Swaddle UP Reviews + Giveaway

29/07/2015 By All Mum Said 59 Comments

To Swaddle Or Not To Swaddle

Every baby is different. Some love to be swaddled whilst others prefer to be able to move freely. I have experienced both of these from my children when they were born.

My eldest preferred to be wrapped nice and snug, my second liked to be loosely wrapped and my daughter despised having anything around her from birth. I wonder what baby number four will be like. As I said, each baby is different!

It is common knowledge that most babies feel secure when they are swaddled as it is a familiar feeling for them, having grown in such a tight space for 9 months. Unfortunately for parents who are already trying to figure out the whole parenting thing, some infants find comfort in being swaddled however prefer their hands to be able to move about. Just in case you weren’t struggling enough already!

For more information about swaddling babies with a blanket, see how to swaddle a baby correctly.

Love To Dream Swaddle UP Reviews – Denim Stripe

Thankfully Love To Dream^TM are changing parents lives by allowing them to rest easily knowing their child is sleeping safely without being derived the use of their hands. The Swaddle UP^TMallows newborns and infants to sleep in their natural position with their arms up but still having some control to calm their startle reflex. Research has shown that babies swaddled this way settle faster and sleep for longer as they are getting a better rest.

Swaddle UP features

I love that Love To Dream^TMcreate practical and comfortable sleepwear for babies, but their skills don’t end there. They now embrace current trends so your little one can be a stylista and on trend instead of sticking with a simple pink, blue or white swaddle blanket. The new limited edition Swaddle UP Denim Stripe is a classic denim design. The arrangement is fun and features a mint green stripe making it an ideal unisex pattern.

This gorgeous swaddle is made from soft fabric and features no seams inside for maximum comfort. The twin zipper makes it easy for nappy changes without having to completely take it off and disturb your baby. Travelling with little ones can be tricky when they enjoy being swaddled however the travel slot on the back allows for peace of mind and comfort.

Available in two sizes, the Love To Dream Swaddle UPcomes in small (3-6kg) and medium (6-8.5kg) for $41.95. You can purchase this adorable and practical swaddle from Love To Dream Australia.

3x WINNERS!

Each prize includes: 1x Love To Dream Swaddle UP Denim Stripe (Winners choice of size: S or M). RRP $41.95ea. (Total Prize Pool: $125.85)

If you want to enter more giveaways click over here.

Disclosure: I received the above product for the purpose of this review. All opinions are my own.

The Gro Company Products + Giveaway

03/06/2015 By All Mum Said 24 Comments

Holding your precious baby in your arms is one of the most memorable moments of parenthood. Most babies love to be swaddled as it replicates their former surroundings, the womb, and gives them a sense of security. Others of course, enjoy the freedom of being able to move around. The Gro Company have made it their mission to design the perfect products for parents and their baby regardless of their swaddle/freedom preference. I have experienced a mix of these from my own children. When they love to be swaddled, it is important to remember that their skin is sensitive and requires material that is going to be gentle on their body and not cause irritation.

The Gro Company

Gro-Swaddle

The lightweight 100% cotton Gro-Swaddle is designed to make your baby feel warm and secure. Which ultimately encourages good sleeping habits, allowing both mum and baby a good night’s rest. They have been shaped to fit perfectly around your little bundle without the need for Velcro, studs or ties which eliminates the risk of over-tightening.

The Gro-Swaddle is suitable for 0-3 months and can be used for over or under the arm swaddling. The baby swaddle blankets are made with fabric so soft and gentle, that you will not have to be concerned about it irritating your baby’s precious skin. Gro-Swaddle prices start at $15.00.

Grobag

I always feared my baby would move while sleeping and would get stuck under the blanket in their cot, so I opted for sleeping bags instead. One of my favourite baby sleep bags was the Grobag 1 tog sleeping bag because it not only gave me piece of mind my baby was safe and not stuck under the sheets, but also because they are British and Australian Safety Standard Approved.

The 100% super soft cotton outer and lining was perfect for ensuring fresh baby skin was not aggravated or scratched. I love the Grobag with underarm poppers and side zips because it gives me ease of access to change nappies throughout the night without waking my baby. The arm poppers were great for ensuring my baby didn’t get tangled inside the sleeping bag.

Being machine washable is a must for me and if it isn’t, I will not buy it. This also rings true for being tumble drier safe. Thankfully the Grobag meets both of these criteria. Knowing my baby is warm, comfortable and safe is what made these baby sleep bags the ideal choice for my children. Grobag prices start from $30.00 and come in a huge variety of sizes, togs and designs.

If you are expecting soon, have a newborn or know someone who is; then I highly recommend considering these products. You will not be disappointed.

Prize Includes: 1x Deckchair Grobag – 0-6 months – 1 tog. RRP $74.95.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Terms & Conditions:
1. Australian residents only.
2. Judges decisions is final
3. Winners must make contact within 72 hours.
4. This is a game of skill. Chance plays no part!
Therefore no extra points are given for sharing however it is good karma!!
5. All Mum Said is not responsible for delivery of prize.
NOT endorsed by or have anything to do with facebook.

If you want to enter more giveaways click over here.

Disclosure: I received a Gro Swaddle for the purpose of this review. All opinions are my own.