Review/Giveaway: littleBLAST STEM Activities Kits

When I was in elementary school, my favorite classes were science and math (please refrain from tossing rotten tomatoes at this time). I look at my three and a half year old little boy, and I wonder if he is going to be of a similar mindset. I have thought about it, and have come to the following conclusion: either he will not be science inclined, and as such he could probably use a little assistance in this area, or he will love science class just like Daddy and why aren't we doing a science experiment right now? Thus, either way, it's a good idea to start exposing him to science concepts now.

I have found that littleBLAST is a fun way to help my little one learn.

LittleBLAST is a subscription box service which sends a monthly box of themed science activities  for children aged three to seven.

Unlike some box subscriptions, littleBLAST also lets you order single boxes from past sets. I received the Construction Single BLAST and it turned out to be a delightful way to spend an afternoon with my son.

I don't know how he knew this box was for him, but he did and danced with the box the day it came.

My son's box contained all the materials for four different activities which help develop spatial intelligence, instructions, and a nifty achievement chart to keep track of all the littleBLASTs you've done.

The activities included were; Straws & Connectors (planar and 3-D objects), Blueprint Fun (connecting cubes to match a diagram), How Many Ways (a puzzle about creating new figures using the same number of cubes), and Puzzle Shapes (arranging simple paper shapes to make pictures in a book)  They make sure to include everything that is required for each activity.

I was pleasantly surprised to even find a glue stick that was needed for Puzzle Shapes in the box.  Let me tell you, if we had needed to cut the fun short for a quick trip to the store to get one no amount of juice or snacks could have saved us from the tantrum that would have come.

The instructions include some good discussion points that can help little scientists realize how the lessons they just learned apply to the world around them.

The first activity we did together was called Straws & Connectors, it consisted of straws and connectors (gasp) and picture cards that illustrated the different shapes we made.  Squares and triangles were already cool, but I think it blew his little mind to expand them into three dimensional objects.

Our second activity, Blueprint Fun; called for those interlocking cubes that I remember fondly from elementary school and some blueprints that we supposed to build.  The blueprints started simple and grew more complex, encouraging my little guy to pay attention to detail as the designs went from simple shapes to more irregular features.  They even included some blueprint sheets without a pattern so we could make our own blueprints to build.

The next activity, How Many Ways, called for an encore from our beloved interlocking cubes and some graph paper. The intent was to take five cubes and explore all the different ways they could be reassembled.  However, telling my three year old Mischief that he can only play with five of the cubes instead of all of them ended ...poorly.

Therefore, we quickly transitioned into the last activity, Puzzle Shapes, without delay.  This activity was my favorite because I had to be involved.  Mommy said that I had to use the glue stick on all of his paper shapes as he put them on the project pages.  I don't know why she trusted me with the glue; but I know that my little guy had so much fun building pictures, that he didn't mind daddy being the designated glue-er.

We had one extra shape at the end, so I made him a "good job" medal.

So, the activities- just how fun are they really? Let me put it this way, my three year old son was paying rapt attention to something for over an hour and a half without the use of any electronics, rage inducing songs that never end, or cars.

In fact, he has busted out the box and is playing the activities again right now as I'm typing, so I know we will be able to play and learn with just this BLAST many times to come.

LittleBLAST was started by an engineer and an elementary school teacher who also happened to be the mothers of preschoolers, and wanted quality science and math activities for their little ones.

LittleBLAST offers over a dozen single blasts that you can order as one time events for $24.95, as well as subscriptions in month to month($24.95), three and six month installments($74.85 and $149.70 respectively). They also offer a nifty sibling add on, wherein you can order an extra set or sets of materials with each box($9.95 for the single $19.90 for the double).

Also, at the other end of the spectrum, if you already have plenty of materials for the science experiments, you can order all of the printed material in a digital format and print it at your leisure ($7.95).

So, quite frankly, my son and I enjoyed this enough that he will be getting another littleBLAST in the mail before too long. It comes with everything you need for an afternoon of fun, and I still get a boost to my fatherly pride in knowing that I am helping my son learn.

littleBLAST Website
littleBLAST on Facebook




littleBlast is giving away a Construction Single Blast set (like the one I reviewed) to one of our readers living in the US!

To enter the giveaway, leave a comment in this entry as instructed by the Rafflecopter, then leave the name you commented under and your email in the box in the Rafflecopter entry. (This allows us to contact you if you win!)  This will open up additional optional entries to increase your odds of winning.

This giveaway is open to US RESIDENTS ONLY
and will end just before midnight ET on 4-14-15. 

The winner will be notified by email within 24 hours after the end of the giveaway.  In order to claim the giveaway prize, the winner will need to respond within 24 hours of notification, or an alternate winner will be selected.

Good luck everyone!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

Review: Glomtom Ergonomic Support for Gamers

This is for all my gamers out there, you know who you are: you who had to beat the same game eight times because you NEEDED to see every ending, you who just had to have that platinum achievement for getting  "100%" progress in game.

Hey you in the back! Yes, you, oh self proclaimed "non-gamer".  Didn't you drain your phone's battery no less than three times making sweet three-in-a-rows of candy or flinging disgruntled birds into curiously colored pigs?  I thought so.  Its time for us all to admit that we all have some dalliance into digital distractions, and that's just fine.

Now that we gamers have decided to join the conversation, I have something to bring to your attention.  Your posture is probably atrocious.

Think about it, your default gaming posture most likely consists of some of the following: back arched forward, shoulders slumped and rolled in towards chest, upper body supported by elbows on thighs or knees, hands dangling from weak wrists, all punctuated by jerking your body as your character gets trounced by the boss- for the 267th time.

If this sounds uncomfortably accurate of you, don't feel bad; I did the same thing.  That is, until I got my Glomtom.

The Glomtom is a simple ergonomic support that makes gaming, or any activity involving a handheld digital device, so much more comfortable that once you start using it regularly, you will never want to go without again.  All of this awesome even comes in a delightfully simple package: a cushion-like object that sits in your lap.

By simply elevating your arms fifteen degrees, posture is corrected and tension that you didn't event realize you were building up is diminished.

This all sounded to good to be true, so to check for myself I stopped using the Glomtom halfway through a session, and the difference was so shocking I had to steal it back from the wife right away.

As you can guess, the Glomtom is really comfortable.  The cushion is a very sturdy foam that has just the right amount of give, much more support than from your standard pillow from the bed, and the cover is a durable microfiber cloth that doubles as a great mousepad and is really soft (I may have caught the wife petting it once).

It even has a zippered pocket on the front for storing gaming controllers, or whatever else you would like to stash in you newest gaming accessory, like snacks.

The only thing I can find close to a con on this product is that it's a bit bulky try and toss in a backpack and bring with you to a buddy's house.  But to be honest, its bulk helps make it comfy and I don't really expect it to ever leave arm's reach of my couch anyway, so it's a moot point.

Also, thus far, it is available in a Henry Ford-esque array of color schemes ranging all the way from grey with black trim to grey with black trim (which actually looks quite sharp to me, but I'm sure some color choices would be welcome).

The Glomtom is available on their website for $59.99 and they will be sure to get you the tracking information within a day.  They advise you to plan for a week for FedEx to deliver, though rush shipping is available.

 So, if you have a gamer on your shopping list (that might even be you) please consider instead of a game, the Glomtom; every game will eventually be set aside for something new, but the Glomtom will enhance one's gaming experiences for many years to come.

Glomtom on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/glomtom
Glomtom Website: http://glomtom.com/

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Review: Ry's Ruffery

I have a little secret, it's safe with you right?  Of course it is- this is the internet!  What better place to put one's deepest darkest confessions?

The package has a person on it, so I can have one!

I eat dog food; wait that came out wrong.  I've eaten all of my dogs' food- wait no.  I have tried every different dog food and treat I have ever given to any of my dogs.  Ah, that's better.

Now I'll admit, that some of said products should have been called "feed" (as in for livestock) instead of "food."  And the listed ingredients often included agricultural byproducts and/or mysterious chemicals that would make spelling bee champions cower in fear.

I consider my mutt-face to really be part of the family, not just a critter that the wife lets sleep in my spot.  I wouldn't feed anyone else in my family some part-waste-product-part-science-project substance, why should my dog be any exception?

Ry's Ruffery (formerly Ryan's Barkery) is a company that agrees strongly on this idea.

In fact at the top of their website there is the phrase, "Don’t Feed Your Dog What You Wouldn't Eat Yourself!"

This company began when the founder, a ten year old named Ryan Kelly, decided that his puppy simply deserved a better biscuit than what he could find at the pet store.  So he went around asking veterinarians for their input, testing flavors, and experimenting in the kitchen with his mom; and before too long, his labor of love to make his puppy happy turned into a bustling bakery.

Three flavors and a ball - somepuppy is about to be spoiled!

We received three flavors of these treats: Pumpkin-Apple, Peanut Butter and Cheddar, as well as a logo'd ball to play with. The Cheddar seems to be Gregor's favorite, and mine as well, but he is more than willing to devour each flavor. There were no losers here (except maybe Greg because now Dad is eating his snacks).

In fact, except for the fact that they are a bit more crunchy than my usual fare, I would enjoy these as a snack anyway.  How many dog treats can you say that about?

Greg taking his treat nicely. 

My dog Gregor wasn't much for treats before before Ry'st Ruffery biscuits came, but now the mere crinkling of their packaging will have them sprinting across the house to prove what a good boy he is.

He is also now much more motivated to prove that he knows his tricks when these treats are at the end.

Simply put, Ry's Ruffery makes a delightful handmade dog biscuit that your canine companion will treasure nearly as much as you will have from giving it to them.

They take orders for their treats at their website.  Each 8oz bag of freshly made biscuits costs $9.50 and they offer free shipping if you order all three flavors for $24.99 total.

Bone appetit!


Ry's Ruffery Website
Ry's Ruffery on Facebook
Ry's Ruffery on Twitter

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Review: Click & Carry

I happen to be male, at least last I checked, and as such I occasionally fall into a "male" stereotype. In this case that is a good thing, because I tend to go for the "knight in shining armor" approach... but we are low on dragons to slay (...grumble grumble, protected species, grumble grumble...) so I deal with more mundane ways to save my lady fair; like dealing with spiders, things on the top shelf, putting furniture together, and pickle jars.

Her most dreaded chore, however, is groceries, especially hauling them inside.  And every time this task falls to me, I take it upon myself to carry at least eight bulging shopping bags per hand.  Because somehow making two or more trips from the car to the house is a travesty against mankind!  Any pain or funny lines that may form on my hands, and seem to last forever, were thought to be the necessary sacrifice.  Boy, was I wrong.

Allow me to introduce the Click & Carry - the tool of my grocery hauling dreams.  The idea for this nifty device actually came to its creator, Kim, in a dream.

It measures in at 5.25″ x 1.37″ x 1.96″ and 65 grams and holds up to 50lbs.  That translates roughly to fits nicely in my hand, weighs less than half a banana, and holds more than I can comfortably carry in one hand (or about 131 bananas).

To use just grab the base and spin the center section so you can hang all your shopping bags from the hooks on both sides, then spin the center section back in place with a satisfying click and you're all set.  It can be used in hand or over the shoulder, and has a padded gel grip to keep it comfy.

I really like the Click & Carry. It's simple to use and exceeded my expectations. When I first saw the product and held it in hand, I thought it felt flimsy and almost expected it to break.  In an attempt at self-fulfilling prophesy I clicked it open and shut hundreds of times.

Also, when I wasn't using it, my three year old boy decided to play with it, because it's made of shiny brightly colored plastic and therefore must be a toy of his.  After weeks of this toddler torture, it is unharmed.  It even still has its high gloss shine.  The only sign of use I can see on it, is that it opens a little easier than it used to, which the missus actually likes, and a small scratch which I almost didn't notice (thanks little guy).

It felt good and comfy in my hand for small loads, and for the big loads I'd put it on my shoulder and get all 40lbs of groceries in one trip.

Let me tell you, after tossing it on my shoulder just once, I was sold forever on the Click & Carry. The gel grip made it surprisingly comfortable on my shoulder and my hands were free.  And most importantly, I will never need to know the feeling of my fingers being nearly severed by plastic bags again!

 All in all I'm very happy with the Click & Carry. It saves my hands, and it's built to last.  Its small size makes it really easy to keep on hand in the car for unexpected shopping trips.

The Click & Carry is available on their website in four colors; blue, green, purple, and grey for $9.99 each.

I strongly recommend the Click & Carry for anyone who is sick and tired of having their hands mangled by shopping bags. I know I was.



Click & Carry Website
Click & Carry on Facebook

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Review: Lesser Evil Snacks

I don't know about you, but I love snacks!  I come from a long and hearty line of snack lovers, and I'm proud of it. But as much as I love and nurture my "inner fat kid," I need to make sure that he doesn't become my "outer fat kid."

LesserEvil Snacks, started in 2004, is working to be the first brand in your friendly local chip aisle that is actually good for you. Instead of all the other brands who offer a "more healthy option" which tastes like a sacrifice, every product they offer strives to be an actually healthy choice while still making your "inner fat kid" grin like the Cheshire cat.  Listed on each bag is a string of qualities that will make any health conscious consumer excited - USDA organic; gluten free; no artificial preservatives,flavors or colors; and kosher just to name a few.

They have four product lines of delicious noms: Super 4; Chia Crisps; Chia Pop; and their newest line Buddha Bowl.  And let me just say, I'm a fan of them all.  But as they say the devil is in the details, so lets get into details of LesserEvil's divine eats.

One serving size, next to 5 serving bag.

First up is Super 4; a munchie composed of white beans, quinoa, lentils, and chia.  

This little marvel, which resembles a thick macaroni noodle, has a delightful crunch that feels more intense that your standard chip.  

I got to sample two flavors: kale and garlic, and cheesy nacho.  I know what you're thinking, cheesy nacho sure, but kale and garlic?!  Never you fear, the garlic is bold without making you have to sleep on the couch; and the kale played a strong supporting role instead of being bitter like it can be.  

The cheesy nacho also gave a strong showing of traditional snacky flavors that appeals to kids of all ages.

The thing I liked most about Super 4 was the fact that after the first serving, I felt this strong satisfied feeling in my tummy that never seems to happen with standard fare snacks. 

110 calorie serving of Chia Crisps

Chia Crisps are next on the lineup, which use primarily black beans over white rice flour while still highlighting chia.

I would describe their appearance as a thin rice cake, shrunk down to the size of a silver dollar and dyed purple; and their munch lies somewhere between a rice cake and a cracker.

I had the fortune to try two flavors of this charming chip conversion: feta and black olive, and crunchy dill pickle.

The feta and black olive had my wife shouting "OPA!"and let me tell you she is about as Greek as a bratwurst.

I almost lost my chance to tell you about the dill pickle flavor, as my son demolished most of them before I could wrest them from his grasp.  That is, my three - year - old - doesn't - eat - his - veggies - on - pain - of - time-out son, by the way.  The few I managed to save from his tiny clutches made me think of the GIANT pickles I used to love as a kid, but much more compact.

Fair warning, because LesserEvil doesn't use food dyes the dill pickle crisp looks almost exactly like the feta and black olive crisp. These offered  a similar satisfying experience to that of Super 4, while feeling lighter.

One serving of Chia Pop - just right!

The last line to feature chia is called Chia Pop.  By the way, that's the same ch-ch-ch-chia that you remember from the 80's, and now it's a super food chock full of Omega-3s and fiber - live and learn!  I know the idea of mixing a corny Christmas present and popcorn sounds curious at best, but don't you worry, the results are quite intriguing.

The flavor I sampled was Sea Salt and Cracked Pepper, but the name sells itself short.

The chia adds so much subtle complexity to the organic popcorn that I was taken aback at first.  So  I needed a moment to step back and reassess my expectations.

Once I did, I was rewarded with mellow earth tones from the chia forming a smooth foundation for traditional salt counterpointed by sharp pepper. This snack gave me the biggest surprise of them all and delighted me with its complexity, however it wasn't exactly a crowd pleaser among  the rest of my family. (More for me!)

This, my friends, is a close up of Enlightenment.

Buddha Bowl popcorn is the newest line from LesserEvil and I attest it brought my "inner fat kid" to a moment of zen.

The Himalayan Pink flavor brings together only three ingredients in true harmony: organic non-gmo popcorn, organic coconut oil,  Himalayan salt.

From the moment we opened the bag  for the first sniff the wife and I were entranced.  Its subtle sweetness led us both to a place of calm and joy.


That is, of course, until she called dibs on the rest of the bag. That led to a place of frustration and bared teeth; and ultimately an empty bag.  It's so good I feel the only proper way to eat it may be siting in lotus position near a koi pond, but next movie night will make a close second.

After my experience with LesserEvil I plan to give the suggestion box at the local grocery what for until it graces the shelves with these fiendish delights.  In the meantime I will have to settle for ordering from their online store or Amazon.  If you order directly from their website, you should know that they ship only in crates of twelve.  This may sound like an inconvenience at first, but I expect its simply going to save you from ordering from them every week.

Happy Snacking!

Lesser Evil Website
Lesser Evil on Facebook
Lesser Evil on Twitter
Lesser Evil on Pinterest

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