Thermos FUNtainers Are More Than Just Fun!

    

If you are looking for practical back to school lunch supplies, look no further! Thermos' hit FUNtainer products are a terrific go to for us each year. The first time I had ever heard of the FUNtainer bottle was from a friend who had one for her daughter. She kept telling me I had to get one as they were great for keeping drinks cool and that her daughter's ice would last all day during the summer months. 

There's nothing like a trusted word of mouth recommendation, so of course we went out and got one. It did not disappoint. The Thermos FUNtainer Bottles have a stainless steel interior and are double wall vacuum insulated, which makes it an excellent choice for keeping drinks cold. The push button lid is easily opened and closed, and is great for protecting the pop up silicone straw from dirt, germs or other contaminants. It doesn't leak and it doesn't get condensation on the outside like other non-insulated bottles on the market. The plastic trim on the top and bottom of the bottle keep the graphics from getting scratched. The silicone straw can wear down a bit over time if your kid is like mine and is known to chew on it. Be attentive that the straw remains in good shape so that it does not pose a choking hazard. If this does happen, you can re-order the straw component, and it only costs about $2 per straw. To order the replacement part, simply call Thermos directly at 800-669-7065. For this reason, the FUNtainer Bottle is best suited to ages 3 & up. They retail for approximately $15 US/CAN, and come in a multitude of popular character designs such as The Minions, Hello Kitty, Spiderman, Frozen and so much more.

After trying out the FUNtainer bottle, we naturally had to try the Thermos FUNtainer Jar, which is essentially a kid sized Thermos for hot food. Like the FUNtainer Bottle, the FUNtainer Jar has a stainless steel interior & exterior and is also double wall vacuum insulated. You can put hot or cold food products in this particular item, and the wide mouth means it's easy to fill and easy to wash. They retail in Canada and the U.S. for approximately $15. The Jars are also available in various character styles. 

We also got the FUNtainer Batman Dual Compartment Lunch Kit, which is not only a functional but charming with its Batman cape on the back! It has 2 separate compartments. The bottom one would fit a sandwich type square or rectangular container, and the top compartment would fit any other lunch and snack items. The one downside to this lunch bag is that you would almost always need to include a plastic container in the bottom of the lunch bag to have it stand up properly.  But the blue Batman cape more than makes up for this with its cool factor! It is constructed of PVC-free material and has a PEVA lining and retails anywhere from $20-$30 in Canada and the U.S. 

While these items are a little bit on the pricier side for back to school items, they are a great investment not only for school, but outings, day trips and jaunts to the park. The Thermos brand is legendary for a reason.  These are not the type of things you'd have to purchase annually. If you take care of them, they can literally last for years. We have a few of the FUNtainer Bottles, and our original one is about 3 years old and still in great shape. The only thing we've had to do is order the additional straw part as my son is a bit of a chew monster. If he wasn't, we likely wouldn't have even had to replace it at all. Though the care instructions indicate that the FUNtainer Bottles & Jars are dishwasher safe, I would recommend hand washing them to preserve the graphics over the long haul. 

For those with babies, the Thermos brand also has a wide selection of infant products available as well under the Foogo & DwellStudio brands. 

These items are sold on Amazon, and widely available at department stores and other local merchants throughout Canada and the United States.

***** These views are mine, and mine alone. As with anything, you are responsible for assessing whether this item and/or activity is safe and suitable for your specific needs. InfoMommy does not make any warranties of any kind, expressed or implied, and assumes no responsibility and/or liability for any actions taken as a result of this blog post.*****

Crocodile Creek Takes A Bite Out Of Back To School Shopping!

 

When I first stumbled upon Crocodile Creek's products, I was immediately drawn to their vibrant colours. They have 8 designs that consist of a robot, an owl, a dinosaur & a fairy to name a few.  

The Crocodile Creek Robot Backpack is made of what feels like a very durable canvas style material. It has a wide zipper and strong zipper pulls perfect for little fingers. The front compartment of the backpack features a small zippered pocket, a key clip and a place to put pens or pencils. The adjustable straps are very well padded. Information on their website indicates that these backpacks are best suited for kids 3yrs-8yrs. For the most part, I agree. I do think though, that it would be best suited for those 3yrs-6yrs. While the backpack is larger than I thought it would be based on the web image, the front compartment is a bit smaller than other kids' backpacks on the market. The care tag does indicate that these are not recommended for machine washing. This is common with these types of products but you can alternatively wipe it down with mild soap. These retail for approximately $31 USD. 

The Crocodile Creek Robot Lunch Box is appropriate for any age. This particular design has a nice sized deep compartment that would easily accommodate more traditional lunch items or a bento box. I find it to have a bit more padding than a typical department store lunch box, which is great for protecting delicate food items. The mesh pocket on the back is handy for napkins and other small items. Like the backpack, this is also constructed of durable materials and has a PVC/BPA/Phthalate/Vinyl free lining. Some of the other designs have a bit of a different form, but also seem to be quite roomy. This care tag also indicates that machine washing is not recommended. I do wish it was fully machine washable given that it is a lunch box. But with that being said, the inside lining is very easy to wipe clean and would be easy to keep hygienic. You could always hand wash it yourself, or if you were feeling rebellious, try machine washing it on the gentle or hand wash cycle if it was badly soiled. But you'd just need to know that you would be doing so at your own risk. This item retails for approximately $21 USD. 

The Crocodile Creek Reusable Ice Packs are a great non-toxic/BPA free way to keep lunches cool, especially during those warmer months. They aren't only functional, but are also adorable, bringing a smile to your little one's face when they open their lunch box at school each day. They are made similar to the ice packs you'd get from baby formula promotional packs and I keep each one in an individual Ziploc bag to keep them fresh and clean year-round. You get 2 to a pack and they retail for approximately $8 USD for the pair. 

All in all, I thought that these were great products. While I do prefer to penny pinch, some items are worth spending the extra money on.  The Crocodile Creek backpack and lunch box both seem like durable and sturdy pieces that would take a well-deserved bite out of your back to school budget.  With their 30 day hassle-free money back guarantee, you can't really go wrong. 

These and other Crocodile Creek products can be purchased directly from Crocodile Creek's website. They are also available at various online/brick & mortar retailers in Canada and the U.S. Some of these more common merchants are Whole Foods, Target, Mastermind, Indigo Books, Barnes & Noble and Well.ca.  

Crocodile Creek is currently offering a 20% discount off your entire purchase until August 31st, 2015 when using promo code Mommy20 at CrocodileCreek.com! 

One other tip? Check their Clearance/Sale section regularly. They have some killer deals on some other fantastically adorable items! 

***** These views are mine, and mine alone. As with anything, you are responsible for assessing whether this item and/or activity is safe and suitable for your specific needs. InfoMommy does not make any warranties of any kind, expressed or implied, and assumes no responsibility and/or liability for any actions taken as a result of this blog post.*****

27 Things To Do With Kids In Ontario!

   

Having little ones, we love day trips, especially ones that are off the beaten track. Things that are unique and fun, but are also less busy than a lot of the more publicized venues. Instead of keeping this list of attractions across Ontario to myself, I'm sharing it so you can have a great time, too!

Remember to check online before you go for any promos, coupons or other discounts to maximize your savings. Attractions Ontario is a great site for discounts & coupons on various activities throughout Ontario! Off we go!

SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO

Windsor Wood Carving Museum in Windsor – Check out this museum's Kids' Club for kids 4yrs – 12yrs of age! Kids can do all sorts of wood crafts, soap carving, and learn about working with wood. They also tailor a number of activities to reflect the current season. Visits are organized by appointment and admission is via donation.

Windsor Sculpture Park in Windsor – Touring this year round attraction will leave you in awe as you explore the sculptured animals, dinosaurs and contemporary works of art in this outdoor environment. And the best part? Admission is free to all!

Stones 'N Bones in Sarnia – You and the kids can explore this exhibition of everything from dinosaurs to gemstones to butterflies and mounted wildlife. You will find artifacts, RCMP memorabilia and a host of other things. Enjoy the museum scavenger hunt that can printed off ahead of time from home and then put into action upon arrival! 

SOUTHERN ONTARIO

Bingeman's Funworx Indoor Playground in Kitchener – This indoor playground is huge and has 3 levels! It's awesome not only for toddlers, but for school aged kids up to 12yrs of age.

Snyder's Farm in Kitchener – This family farm is sure to be a hit with anyone of any age! The best time to visit this venue is in the fall. They have a gigantic corn maze, pumpkin picking, a petting zoo, a train ride around the farm, haunted houses, a straw castle, bouncy castles, a barnyard theatre, mini golf and a whole heck of a lot more! 

Storybook Gardens in London – This attraction has been around since 1958 and has something for everyone. Its beautiful gardens are surrounded by a number of activities for kids 2yrs and up. Admission covers all the playground structures, trampoline, the mini village, Old McDonald's Farm, the splash pad and a myriad of other interactive play areas. There are carnival type rides there as well, which are not included in the entrance fee. During winter months, their little creek is used as a skating trail!

WEST GREATER TORONTO AREA

Wildhagen Greenhouses in Milton – This place is great for younger ones! It features a number of life sized mossed animals, a play area that includes a Mr. Potato Head section, a stuff animal dog grooming centre, a grocery store/market play area, a scavenger hunt, a miniature train and a whole lot more! 

Halton County Radial Railway in Milton – Admission to this seasonal historic railway includes unlimited rides on their streetcar trains that chug along 2kms of track. There is a huge trainyard with a variety of old train relics and subway cars. You will find barns which house old fashioned displays like train stations, and an ice cream shop. Kids who adore Thomas the Tank Engine will love this place! If you're lucky, the conductor will even let your child ding the train bell! 

Chinguacousy Park in Brampton – This free park has beautiful grounds, a large petting zoo, a number of picnic areas, playgrounds and a splash pad! You will also find a tropical greenhouse, paddleboat rentals, mini golf and a slew of other things to do. There are winter activities like tubing here too! (Some fees apply for things like tubing, paddleboat rentals, mini golf, etc)

TORONTO AREA

iFly Toronto in Oakville – This experience is not for the faint of heart, or for those who are afraid of heights. But if you want a skydiving experience without having to jump out of a plane, this is the place for you! This is not a cheap place to visit but it's definitely unique! 

Ripley's Aquarium in Toronto – This one is not exactly off the beaten path, but it is a very unique attraction that you won't find anywhere else in Ontario. Amaze yourself and your kids as you check out various aquatic wildlife from Canada and around the world. Large play and exploratory areas abound, along with numerous interactive activities designed to teach and educate everyone on aquatic life! 

Riverdale Farm in Toronto – In the heart of downtown Toronto, you will discover this 7 1/2 acre park. There are farm animals, walking trails, barns, historic buildings and even some ruins! They also have a number of seasonal events. And the best part? Admission is free!

CENTRAL ONTARIO 

Santa's Village in Bracebridge – This 60-acre Santa crazed place is an amazing place to take kids! It's like Christmas all year round! Walking through the forest, you hear Christmas music playing throughout! There are rides galore designed for the younger ones and many interactive areas, such as the train ride around the park, the boat ride on the Muskoka River, and actually meeting Santa and Mrs. Claus! Each child receives their own Santa's Village elf hat directly from Santa, and they can wear it while riding in a swan paddle boat. There is a host of things to do here and you should plan to spend the entire day! 

Elmvale Jungle Zoo in Elmvale (Near Barrie) – This zoo is a great one to take little ones to because it is just the right size to spend a few hours there. There are plenty of animals, reptiles, marsupials and birds to see, along with giraffes and camels. You don't have to deal with hundreds if not thousands of other tourists like you would at a large urban zoo and you don't have to walk what seems like 50kms in one day! Admission to this zoo is also a lot cheaper that big city zoos! 

Santa Train in Orangeville – This heated coach chugs along the rails for approximately 1 hour while serving gingerbread cookies and hot chocolate! It features a visit from the big man himself, and live music for carolling. Santa will also give each kid a little present and take his picture with you. One word of caution – tickets sell quickly, so be sure to book early! 

NORTHERN ONTARIO

Science North in Sudbury – This educational attraction isn't exactly off the beaten path either, but is a great place to visit if you are in the Sudbury area! It's great for both young and old. Here you will find all sorts of science themed activities and you can check out their flying squirrels. You can also let your toddler go wild in their Toddler Treehouse area, catch an IMAX movie, and watch the stars in their planetarium. You can check out the butterflies in their butterfly gallery, try out the flight simulator and observe the screech owls. And about what seems like a million other things! Dynamic earth is all about mining. After all, Sudbury is not called The Big Nickel by chance! You can get "Passports" which allow you combine both experiences for a cheaper rate.

The Heritage Railway and Carousel Company in North Bay - Nothing beats a day at the beach! This carousel and railway are conveniently located right across from North Bay's downtown scenic waterfront pathway, beach and pier. Take a ride on their heritage railway, or let the kids choose to ride the otter, the black bear or other popular Canadiana animals on this restored carousel.

Cedar Meadows Wildlife Tour in Timmins – This guided tour on a tractor driven large open wagon allows people an opportunity to experience and observe the daily feeding of northern Canadiana wildlife such as bison, deer, moose and elk. 

EASTERN GREATER TORONTO AREA

Linton Farm Market in Oshawa – This farm market not only sells home grown produce, but they have a Kid's Play Area featuring a number of activities such as corn bowling, a tunnel swing, rubber ducky races, a tricycle track, a sand pit and more! During the fall season they do a pumpkin cannon and offer wagon rides out to their pumpkin patch! 

Jungle Cat World in Orono (Near Bowmanville) – Jungle Cat World has been around since 1985. They have over 60 species of mammals, birds, reptiles and invertebrates. Their speciality is large cats and they have a number of them. From tigers to bobcats, lions to leopards and everything in between! They even have a bed and breakfast on site! 

York-Durham Heritage Railway in Uxbridge – Take the kids for a ride on a heritage coach train through the Oak Ridges Moraine. To keep kids entertained on the ride, they have a clown on board, live music and a toy train set to play with. They usually have face painting & they also have a Santa Train! 

EASTERN ONTARIO

Tyendinaga Cavern & Caves in Belleville – Explore these caverns and caves with older kids on a guided tour! Check out fossils and cool cave curtains! 

Canada's Penitentiary Museum in Kingston – Check out this museum based on the history of Canada's federal penitentiaries. Young kids would likely be bored but your older ones would surely find a lot of this stuff interesting. Plus you can threaten them with jail time next time they don't clean their room! (Just kidding! LOL)

Indian River Reptile Zoo in Indian River (Near Peterborough) – Search for dinosaur bones and check out their snakes, turtles, crocodiles and more at this non-profit reptile zoo. With over 200 species, including dinosaurs (Ok, they aren't real!), there is lots of to see and do! 

OTTAWA AREA

Saunders Farm in Munster (Near Ottawa) – Explore this 100-acre family run farm with your little ones! During the summer months, there is a splashpad, and in autumn they have their fall festival. All year round they have mazes, puppet shows, playhouses, hayrides, and a whole lot more!

Canadian Aviation & Space Museum in Ottawa – Take the Kids' Tour and learn about everything aircraft and space geared for them! The Hang Glider Studio is a kids' section that provides various forms of play. Veterans are free! So if you have a family member who is a veteran, bring them with you not only out of general interest, but so that they can take advantage of this interesting freebie. I'm sure they would love you expressing interest in this attraction!

Pirate Adventures in Ottawa – Take a ride on their 50′ pirate ship & help solve pirate mysteries while defending against enemies using water cannons! Kids can make a pirate walk the plank and use a treasure map, in addition to a number of other fun activities.

Happy Trails!

***** These views are mine, and mine alone. As with anything, you are responsible for assessing whether this item and/or activity is safe and suitable for your specific needs. InfoMommy does not make any warranties of any kind, expressed or implied, and assumes no responsibility and/or liability for any actions taken as a result of this blog post.*****

   

Why Your Family Should Watch The Amazing Race!‏

   

As some of you know, I've written about The Amazing Race series before. But I feel compelled to blog about it again! 

Now that summer is here and our children are staying up later, it's a bit more challenging to find age appropriate TV shows that we and our 7 year old and our 2 year old can watch together as a family. While I do enjoy a good Disney or Pixar movie, there's only so much animation that I can handle before getting blurry eyed and mumbly. Think Minion - but without the energy level! LOL

The Amazing Race is a show that my older child gets excited about! He loves the challenges, the struggles and the personal achievements. And so do we! But more than that, we love that he recognizes this in the show and hope that the perseverance and tenacity is forever lodged in his cerebral cortex for moments in the future. It also allows us the opportunity to open up dialogue on trying. Even when we don't think we can do it. Not to mention how we can overcome our psychological fear or apprehension about conquering a task. 

We always watch the first episode of the season and choose our top 3 teams immediately after they do their bios. Then, we watch the rest of the season together and cheer on our teams as they compete episode after episode. It's a show that allows us to all watch together, while cheering on our selected teams and giving each other some good-natured ribbing. All the while, our toddler is in on the action too, enjoying every minute of it, even if we aren't sure that he understands why. :)

Here's our top-3 picks for Season 3 of The Amazing Race Canada:

Mine: 

#1 - Neil & Kristen

#2 - Susan & Sharnjit

#3 - Simi & Ope

Hubby

#1 - Gino & Jesse

#2 - Hamilton & Michaelia

#3 - Dujean & Leilani

Our Oldest

#1- Gino & Jesse

#2 - Brent & Sean

#3 - Dana & Amanda

Our Youngest

#1 - He's just happy to be there! 

Whether or not our picks turn out to be the champions this season, we will all be winners regardless. We will have spent quality family time together, creating memories and reinforcing values that we've already attempted to instill in our young ones. What's not to love?!


***** These views are mine, and mine alone. As with anything, you are responsible for assessing whether this item and/or activity is safe and suitable for your specific needs. InfoMommy does not make any warranties of any kind, expressed or implied, and assumes no responsibility and/or liability for any actions taken as a result of this blog post.*****

Grow All You Can Eat In 3 Square Feet‏!

   

With all the food recalls lately, it makes me question how my food products are grown and prepared. We have a very small raised garden in our urban backyard, and I've often wondered how to possibly grow even more produce for our personal consumption. 

The new book Grow All You Can East In 3 Square Feet was recently brought to my attention, and I'd like to bring it to yours. Whether you are a green thumb or a newbie, you will find something useful in this book. Whether you live in an apartment or a detached home, growing your own produce is not out of reach. 

Found in this large trade paperback's 256 pages are plenty of ingenious concepts on maximizing growing space, no matter how small of an area you have to work with. Easy to follow instructions provide ideas on different ways to produce small crops, and includes helpful information from how to sow seeds, DIY projects to build your own growing storage containers as well as what to plant and when.

It also provides solutions for growing when you might not have the space to have a typical garden. For fans of freecycling, you will find great suggestions on how to incorporate your recycled items into your cultivation. I love the idea they have in the book for doing a bicycle wheel trellis! 

Whether you need ideas on what to plant where you have shade, something to grow in the blazing sun, or high yielding plants, it's all in here. Even everything from quick growing to shallow rooted crops.  

Whether you purchase this book or rent it from the library, I am confident that you will find this book to be not only useful, but an enjoyable & interesting read! 

Grow All You Can Eat In 3 Square Feet retails for $24.95 in Canada, and $22.95 in the U.S.

***** These views are mine, and mine alone. As with anything, you are responsible for assessing whether this item and/or activity is safe and suitable for your specific needs. InfoMommy does not make any warranties of any kind, expressed or implied, and assumes no responsibility and/or liability for any actions taken as a result of this blog post.*****