EverEarth Pull Back Car...Eco-Friendly Fun

Eco-Friendly Wooden Toddler Toys

As part of my series of reviews for Babe-Equip, I was sent this lovely little wooden car by EverEarth from their "Future Eco-City" range.  EverEarth  toys are created with the safety of both our children and our planet in mind.  Kid-safe, eco-friendly and made from wood from renewable forests, they are perfect for parents looking for ethically sourced toys for their toddlers. The Ever Earth Pull Back Car is packaged using recycled cardboard, printed with soy ink.

The car itself is beautifully yet simply constructed.  It has a pull back mechanism which is surprisingly effective.  The slightest pull backwards results in the wheels spinning in a forward motion propelling the little car across the room. It is probably the best pull back vehicle I've ever tried!

Freddy was able to get the hang of the technique and we enjoyed sending it across the room to each other.  It was a lot of fun, making Freddy giggle!

He was very interested in how it all worked.  The car encourages skills such as shape recognition and problem solving, and develops motor skills and co-ordination.

Freddy is really taken with this car and it has become one of his favourite toys to play with.  It is recommended for ages 2 and up, which I think is about right.  Fred is 22 months old and able to use it independently.

Available from Babe-Equip it would make an excellent gift for a toddler.  You can buy it in total confidence knowing it is completely kid safe.

I love this toy, it is simple, traditional and a lot of fun.  Babe-Equip sell a range of the beautiful, eco-friendly EverEarth toys so if you are looking for something eco-friendly for your child,  make them your first port of call!

I'll be reviewing another lovely toy from the range soon.

Don't forget to like Babe_Equip on Facebook to keep up to date with all the latest news and offers!

Freddy's First Blog Post

This is what happens when a toddler jumps up and down on your keyboard when you turn your back for a second!  Thankfully...no laptops were harmed during the writing of this blog post! *breathes sigh of relief*

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I've tried to find hidden meaning in it.  Maybe the real date of the Rapture or an update on the Mayan Armageddon Prophecy.  I've checked for winning lottery numbers or even a prediction of who will win this year's Wimbledon.  But I've got nothing. Nada. Zilch.

So Freddy might not be able to predict the future or tap into the cosmos and deliver a message from beyond. But his jumping skills are beyond compare!

Staying Safe with Milton

You couldn't have failed to have seen news of the terrible E.coli outbreak that has effected so many families in Germany.  At first it was attributed to Spanish cucumbers before being tracked back to infected bean sprouts in Germany itself.  My immediate reaction when I first heard the news was to worry about feeding salad, fruit or fresh vegetables to my family. I take the quality of  food in the supermarkets for granted so this was a wake up call.  All it takes is one moment of careless handling in the supply chain and the ensuing consequences can be devastating.  The safety of my family is paramount to me.  So, when I was offered some products from Milton to test, I was particularly interested!

Milton Sterilising Fluid is generally associated with the sterilisation of baby bottles and equipment.  However, it is also food safe for ensuring that salads, fruits and vegetables are completely safe for consumption.  The FSA advises people to wash their produce in Milton solution for 20 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.  It leaves no taste and kills all the bacteria.  This is definitely good to know, and keeping a bottle of sterilising solution under the sink (even after the baby stage is over) is definitely a sensible idea!  It also is great for sterilising your washing up sponge...did you know it could be harbouring over 10,000 bacteria per square inch!

In addition to the fluid, Milton also has a range of products that will keep babies and children safe.  Their Sterilising Tablets are a convenient way of keeping baby's feeding essentials hygienically clean and are perfect for when on holiday. The tablets take just 15 minutes to sterilise baby's equipment, and the solution stays effective for 24 hours.

Milton produce an anti-bacterial Fabric Solution.  Clothing and bedding carries germs that can cause infections or bad smells.  With many of us washing our laundry at lower temperatures, many of the germs are not being killed in the washing process.  This is something that particularly occurs if you use re-usable nappies.    Milton Fabric Solution is a fresh smelling liquid that is added to the wash and eliminates germs even at low temperatures.  It is mild and gentle and can be used with all fabrics and on baby's clothing. If someone in the family has been ill, washing their clothing and bedding with Milton Fabric Solution can stop the spread of the illness.

Milton Surface Spray is a great defence against the micro-organisms that can cause food poisoning.  It can also protect against the spread of flu.  Effective against Salmonella, E.coli, Listeria and Candida, the spray can be used in kitchens, nurseries, bathrooms and toy rooms.  It has a pleasant scent and smells lovely and fresh  (and not like the chemical odour of a hospital!!)

The Antibacterial Surface Wipes are a convenient way of keeping things clean, especially when out and about.  They have the same anti-bacterial action as the spray and are perfect for use in restaurants, hotel rooms or when travelling to keep surfaces germ-free.  They are 100% bio-degradable so you needn't worry about them not being eco-friendly.  I love to keep a pack in my baby bag...it is very reassuring to know I can clean up any bacterial  'hotspots' wherever I am.  Also, they are great for running over my laptop....it can hold more germs than the toilet!

The Anti-Bacterial Hand Gel is a handy size for carrying on your person to keep your hands germ free.  They are effective against bacteria and viruses such as flu, so can help stop the spread of infectious diseases.  It is great for travelling, when using public facilities, before eating or when looking after baby (particularly after nappy changes!)  The gel smells nice and doesn't dry out your hands as it is moisturised.  It doesn't leave a sticky residue either.

Milton have been protecting babies for over 60 years with their fast, safe and easy to use products.  Milton is trusted by millions of parents and healthcare professionals in the UK and beyond.

Check Milton out for yourself on Facebook and Twitter for more information, competitions and chat.

Image courtesy of Milton-tm.com

Fisher Price Ducky Fun 3 in 1 Potty for Potty Training

Potty Training Made Fun With The Ducky Fun 3 in 1 Potty!

Potty training can be an arduous task!  Making the step from nappies to the toilet can be perilous and must be quite daunting for a toddler.  Thankfully Fisher Price have come up with a product that is set to ease my son into this stage of his life.  The Ducky Fun 3 in 1 Potty promises to add an element of fun to potty training which will hopefully make the whole process a lot more inviting, keeping Freddy interested and eager to 'perform'!

The potty is made to look like a cute Ducky character (OK it is not exactly anatomically correct as it has four feet which my 8 year old noticed immediately....but if it had just the regular pair of feet, it would not be stable!!  Artistic licence is acceptable in this case!)

The friendly face really appealed to Freddy.  It certainly made the potty much less intimidating.

The potty plays a quacktastic tune when the child does a wee in the potty which rewards them and encourages a return visit.  It is really motivational and adds a bit of fun to the proceedings!

The potty itself is a really good size and shaped like a mini-toilet which was nice.  I think Freddy recognised the shape from the bathroom and seemed to understand exactly what it was and promptly sat on it!  He's been a bit reticent with traditional potty shapes up to now, so this was quite a breakthrough for us!

The potty comes with a removable easy clean bucket and splash guard.  The toilet seat part also can be removed and used as a trainer seat on a big toilet so that is a real bonus.  The lid then closes down making a stepstool for your child to climb up onto the loo.  It will take you through to the next stage of toilet training making it better value for money.

The potty takes 3 AA batteries to power the music which is activated by contact when the child uses the potty.  At first I saw it as a bit of a novelty item, but seeing Freddy's eagerness to get to know his new potty makes me think that Fisher Price have really come up with an excellent product.  The longevity of the product is also very attractive...it will be useful for years to come as a step up stool and trainer seat.  

"So is this instead of a nappy Mum??"

The 3 in 1 Duck Potty costs £32.99 which makes it a top end product in terms of price.  However it is definitely very unique and could be exactly the thing to make the transition to toilet training easier for your toddler, which to me makes it worth the money.  

It is definitely a fun way to tackle a potentially challenging stage!  We'll keep you updated with his progress!

*Freddy was given the potty to test so we could do a review for Mums Like You.  The opinions are all ours!*

Thinking Slimmer Review

Anyone who reads my blog will probably know I have been trialling Slimpods since last November.  My success has not always been long lasting because things have got in the way (like Christmas, illness and generally losing my Chi for dieting!)  However, Sandra the CEO of Thinking Slimmer has taken it upon herself to really help me. I've received personal phonecalls and direct messages on Twitter, and between us we have come up with my current programme.  She has been wonderful. Also I think the time is now right and the supportive #mumentum group has been the final piece of the puzzle, giving me the motivation to succeed once and for all!

I am using the Drop 2 Jean Sizes Slimpod at the moment.  Previously I had used one that referred to dress sizes, and although it is a subtle difference, I couldn't relate as well to the visualisation of myself in a frock!  So this one is tailored to suit me better.  There are lots of different options so you can find one that fits your own personal needs.

I've been listening for about a week now and it really is facilitating some amazing changes in the way I eat.  For example today I was in Starbuck's with my husband.  By habit, he bought me a Mocha and a Skinny Lemon Muffin.  I was thinking 'what the hell, I'll eat it anyway...it's skinny!' but I just couldn't.  I really didn't want it.  It just didn't appeal to me at all. I wrapped it in a napkin and brought it home for the kids!  I have said no to the offer of food using will power, but this was different.  I just did not want it and it was there on a plate in front of me.  It actually scared me a little bit!!  This was massive!

No thanks!!

I've lost 5lbs already and I'm not having to do anything apart from listen to my MP3 player at bedtime.

If you think hypnosis could help you, take a look at their website.  It's not just a place to purchase a downloadable Slimpod.  There is information, success stories that are really motivational, advice and support. It's a real community and after you become a customer you get access to the VIP area.

I love the soothing voice of Trevor Silvester who uses WordWeaving to gently talk to your unconscious mind, influencing you in a natural way.

I'd say give it a go...there is nothing to lose...except your excess weight!!!

Babe-Equip...a New Way To Shop!

Babe-Equip is an online company that aims to make it easier for parents shopping online to find the products that are right for them.  Offering the best items in terms of quality, value for money and ease of use, they sell the things they would want to use with their own children.  Babe-Equip also aims to bring new innovation and eco-friendly products to their customers, giving parents the best choice available.  They do the market research finding the greenest, and most up to date products on the market, and stock the ones that are most appropriate to their customers.

Babe-Equip do not try to compete directly with the bigger retailers, instead they offer a completely different experience for their customers.  The site is easy to navigate with user friendly sections giving information based product descriptions.  The use of their blog is encouraged and a community spirit is fostered among their customers.  They invite customers to suggest great products that they have discovered, that can then be stocked for other parents.  It's a common sense approach to ensure the best customer satisfaction!

As part of their customer service, Babe-Equip want to provide reviews written by real parents to help others make up their minds about the products on sale.  I am honoured to be a part of the team, and will be doing a series of reviews on the toddler range.  Check out Louise from Bloggomy who has been reviewing the baby products for Babe-Equip on her blog.  Over the next few weeks I will be reviewing some fabulous eco-friendly toys, some organic toiletries and some brilliant innovative toddler products.  I'll be posting my blogs directly on Babe-Equip's Facebook Wall, so be sure to pop over and 'like' them to keep up to date.

Babe-Equip stock everything from travel systems to stair gates to toys to car seats to nappies to nursery equipment.  They offer free delivery on orders over £49.99 and orders made before 2pm are dispatched the same day if in stock.  They offer a money back guarantee so you can buy in confidence.

If you like Babe-Equip's Facebook page, you'll be kept up to date of news, special offers and giveaways.  Pop over and say hello!!

Green People...Organic Children's Products

We've tried and tested lots of children's bath products and toiletries Inside the Wendy House.  So, when we were offered the chance to sample something from the Green People's children's range, we were only too pleased.  We chose the Organic Bath and Shower Wash with Aloe Vera, Ylang Ylang and Mandarin, because it sounded so lovely!!  8 year old Kizzy suffers from eczema.  It isn't as bad as it used to be when she was a baby, but she still gets large patches of skin which get inflamed and sore.  After a bath she often itches her skin as it gets irritated by the products and she ends up breaking the skin.  I read that this was particularly good for children with skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, so I thought I'd use it with Kizzy to see if it would improve her problem.  2 year old Freddy is blessed with lovely skin, but I still like to use the best quality products on my precious little man.

The bath and shower gel is pure and organic, as well as being suitable for vegans.  It contains no Parabens, SLS/SLES, phthalates, other nasties or artificial fragrances at all.  The gel is hand made in small quantities ensuring freshness and quality.

The smell is fresh and zesty and the children couldn't wait to test it out in the bath.  We found that a little went a long way so you only need to use it sparingly.  With a sponge, it made lots of gentle foam which smelt lovely and felt luxurious.  Kizzy said it made her skin feel smooth and soft and she had no irritation at all.

Kizzy said "It's really bubbly and I really liked the smell!"

The Citrus and Aloe Vera Bath and Shower Gel is sold for £7.75 for a 200ml tube from Green People.  I would definitely recommend it to parents whose children suffer from eczema or psoriasis, or have sensitive skin.  It has been great for Kizzy.

Mumentum...My Journey to Being Slimmer

It's been just a week since I hooked up with Liska and the other #Mumentum girls.  I'm already 5 lbs lighter, more positive and my attitude to food has changed.

I've restarted my Thinking Slimmer Slimpods, listening to the 10 minute recordings at bedtime every night.  It has really helped me.  I am listening to the yet to be released "Lose Two Jean Sizes" slimpod, along with the "Chocoholic Cure".  They help by reprogramming the unconscious part of your mind to see food as a fuel that is there to be burned.  It makes you aware of the feeling of fullness and makes you open to change habits of a lifetime.  It encourages you to do 'anything more than nothing' to achieve your goal everyday and visualise the person you want to be.  The person you CAN be!

It really is incredible that after just a few days I am no longer craving treats or binging.  It's easy to say no to food or just have a little taste of things and then stop.  I genuinely don't feel like I'm being deprived of the things I used to want, because the desire for them has gone.

So far so good!!  But I do believe that the support of you #Mumentum ladies is really instrumental in the effectiveness of my ability to allow myself to succeed this time.  I feel that I'm not alone, that other people care and are rooting for me, like I'm rooting for them!  Motivational chats on Twitter and comments on blog posts have raised my spirits immensely and I'm so grateful for the support and friendships that are developing online.  Everyone has different motives for their weightloss or fitness goals.  Everyone is taking a different approach...but we all want the same thing.  To get back the control and be as healthy as we can be for our families.

I'll be thrilled to meet up with some of our group at Cybermummy.  And I really hope that we get the opportunity to attend an event together as the #Mumentum Ladies!  We could get T-Shirts and everything!!  Poster girls for fabulous Mummies working on reducing their tummies together!

Liska's group is snowballing as other people on Twitter see the hashtag and realise what a great group it is.  I'm so glad that I joined in and proud to play a part in it!  This is exactly what social media should be about...enabling like-minded people to link up and connect.

My one concern is that my lack of exercise will eventually call a halt to my weightloss.  I've done all kinds of things in the past. Yoga, pilates, holistic toning and going to the gym.  In every one of these attempts I've put my back out.  I couldn't walk for 3 days following one Pilates class!  I was diagnosed with scoliosis after the birth of baby number 3.  I had a year of restricted movement and pain following Ella's birth.  There is definitely something amiss in my spine.  Instead I will try to walk the school run more often and do activities with the family that gets my blood pumping.  Fingers crossed it will be enough.

I start week 2 with a positive outlook and I can really see where I want to be.  Using Cybermummy as the first marker enables me to set a date for my first target.  I'm not entering into any mass hysteria regarding the Cybermummy event as some people have suggested to other people's attempts to lose weight etc.  But it is an event that is punctuating my year and therefore provides an opportunity to lose a bit of weight and is a focus for my efforts.  Feeling like I'm doing well is a huge confidence boost.  There is no harm in that whatsoever!!

Drowning Gummy Bear

Listography...Decisions

I do sometimes wonder if my life has been a series of events that were always destined to happen.  My journey seems to have been decided for me and I've walked the path willingly, knowing that the ultimate destination was the place that I always needed to be!

Kate has challenged us to come up with five decisions that we are glad we made...so I'm going to take some credit for taking the forks in the road that have lead me to where I am today.

1: Keeping My Son

When I was pregnant and single, it was suggested by people close to me that I had an abortion.  I even had a clinic recommended to me.  I would have been able to go to university, brush my past under the carpet and start a new life away from the waste of space who was my now ex-boyfriend.  At the Family Planning Clinic when my pregnancy was confirmed, the nurse went straight for the abortion option speech.  I will never forget her writing "will not consider abortion" in big letters across my medical notes when I stated emphatically that I wanted to keep my baby.  She seemed disappointed!  Perhaps she was on commission?  I may have been a young, vulnerable, single teenager ...but I knew that this baby, my Joe, was my destiny!

2: Being Brave Enough to go it Alone

Being 21 and finding myself pregnant with baby number 2, could have made me prepared to settle for the relationship I had found myself in.  I had a partner and a roof over my head and I'm sure I could have done what I needed to do to make it work if I had tried (or given in and accepted my lot).  But instead, I had the guts to find myself a flat to rent and start again on my own when I was 6 months pregnant.  I would never have been happy living like I had been, and my children would not have had a good life had I stayed.  I would have had to compromise who I was and what I wanted.  It was not the easy option to go...but it was the right one.  I don't regret anything though, because I wouldn't be without my daughter Megan for the world.  Another good decision!

3: Ian

Being brave enough to risk a fantastic friendship and making Ian my other half was a tremendous decision.  He has helped me to be the best version of myself I could be.  We've had another three gorgeous children to add to the two beautiful ones we already had.

Recently when we tidied out our garage I unearthed a box filled with cards and letters I had sent to Ian over the years.  From the age of sixteen, when Ian left school, to when we got together at twenty-three, I had regularly written to him.  He had kept every single one.  We were so meant to be together!!  Writing those letters and never letting our relationship fade away was a great decision...because as soon as the time was right we didn't hesitate!

4:  Moving to Shropshire


We lived in a Housing Association flat in Hampshire.  It wasn't a great area to live and I worried about the future of our children.  My sister had just moved to a lovely house in the country and we saw the possibility of a much better lifestyle.  Ian wasn't on a big wage but we worked out we could just about afford a house of our own if we scrimped and saved.  It also meant that Ian had to carry on working down south while we relocated to Shropshire.  We found a lovely three bed semi with a garden for less than it would have cost us to buy the flat we lived in!  As Ian worked shifts, he lived three days with us, returning to work for a further three days and so on.  We only had one car so my sister helped me with school runs and shopping trips when Ian was away.  Eventually Ian found a better paying job nearer to our new house and he came home.  Everything fell into place.  We now have a 4 bedroomed detached house and I count myself extremely lucky!!  All thanks to our decision to become Salopians!!

5: Starting My Blog


I've loved being a wife and a mother, but I've always felt that I needed an outlet for myself.  I've taken courses, done extra A'Levels, volunteered at my kids' schools around the children once they started nursery.  But it was starting my blog last year that has really fulfilled that part of me that has wanted something for myself (without compromising the time spent with Freddy).

I've met some great people, I've done things I would never have dreamt of doing (interviewing Ken Barlow??!!), I've been to some amazing places and I've had unbelievable opportunities!  My personal confidence has grown immensely.  I've met some fellow bloggers already this year and can't wait to meet up with so many others at Cybermummy!  I've had some brilliant products sent to me for review and I'm about to start my Toyology adventure. I've 'met' the lovely #mumentum ladies who are helping me with my weightloss efforts by offering support and encouragement.  Blogging has changed my life quite literally!  What a great decision to click that "create blog" button on Blogger!!

Cook with Lisa...Scented Candles to Light up Your Life

Delicious Scented Candles for The Home

Smell is such an evocative sense.  So many memories from childhood can be instantly recalled with the merest sniff of a Victoria Sponge baking in the oven.  Or the lingering scent of the zesty lemon reminding me of my Mum's home made Lemon Meringe Pie Filling simmering on the hob.  It's so comforting, transporting me back to a carefree time.

Lisa Roukin, from Cook with Lisa is a talented cooking teacher.  Inspired by the comforting aromas of her own childhood, she has created the most gorgeous smelling candles.  Based on popular desserts, Apple Pie, Shortbread, Raspberry Sorbet or Pineapple Flambe, within minutes of lighting the candle, your house will radiate warm and welcoming scents.

The manufacturing process was very important to Lisa who developed the fragrances with a range of scents to suit every palate, spicy, warm, fresh and tropical.

I was sent one of Lisa's candles to try...in Pineapple Flambe.  It came in a lovely 8cm tall tin.  The moment I opened it the gorgeous, tropical scent hit me.  It was fresh, sweet and fruity and reminded me of holidays and summer time!

The candle itself has a 50 hour burn time and is handmade in the UK with British sourced ingredients.  They do not contain any animal products so are completely vegetarian friendly!

The dessert theme doesn't end with the fantastic smell.  In a unique twist, each candle includes a tried and tested recipe on the label which means you can experience the delicious dish for yourself.

Lighting the wick and watching the wax slowly begin to melt, I inhaled the gorgeous warming aroma of Pineapple Flambe.  The scent was very authentic and not too overpowering which was pleasing.  I love the concept of dessert scented candles.

They are a zero calorie fix for dieters who want to experience their favourite desserts without having to eat them.  They will satisfy even the sweetest tooth!  All the enjoyment in a completely guilt and calorie free treat.

Reasons To Be Cheerful

It's June...I can't believe it's come round so quickly!  I'm vlogging my reasons again this week because I am so excited about my new Cybermummy plans!!  Whereas before I was going to let my husband drive me and stay overnight with Freddy, then pick me up afterwards...I'm now flying solo with Lou as my wingman!!  Check out why on my video along with other reasons why I'm cheerful today!!

A Day In The Life Of My Harveys Sofa

It's a place for snuggling.  A place for cuddling.  Somewhere to do homework or read a book.  A place to relax, or to play or listen to music.  Somewhere for a bed time story.  A place to hang out.  Somewhere for a nap.  A family place.  A happy place.

Our Harveys Furniture Store Clarissa Sofa is ALL these things!

After a month it is a favourite place in our house.  It still looks pristine.  The seats and arms are still plump and comfortable.  We love it!

Here is a video homage to our Clarissa Sofa from Harveys!  Over the course of the day, this is what happened on our sofa!

Theraline Pillows...for mums and kids!

When I was pregnant I struggled to get comfortable.  I'd stuff a cushion between my knees and wedge a duvet under my bump and still be uncomfy!  I wish I'd known about Theraline Nursing Pillows...they'd have spared me many a sleepless night, tossing and turning trying to get into a position conducive with sleep!!

The super soft cover is stuffed with micro beads that moulds and bends into shape giving support and comfort whether you are lying down or sitting up.  What's more it is perfect for breastfeeding once baby is born, reducing strain on the shoulder and neck and giving support to the back.

The soft and huggable pillow is so light and so very versatile.  It is great for when baby starts to sit up offering a protective barrier in case of topples.  It really is a great investment...I so wish I'd had one!!!

When Theraline offered me the chance to test out one of their pillows I decided to try out one of their Baby and Kids' Neck Pillows.  Using the same micro bead filling and super soft cover, the Neck Pillow is like a mini version of the original Nursing Pillow.  The filling is as fine as sand so it is flexible and fits perfectly around baby's neck.

The Neck Pillow is perfect for travelling.  It keeps the toddler in a stable, lateral position providing individual, solid support when the head lolls during sleep, without forcing baby's head forward.  It also is a super comfy pillow for at home.

We were sent a yellow floral design, but there are other patterns and colours to choose from and a variety of materials available.

I loved how soft and squidgy it was and it was much bigger than I had anticipated.  It is so light.  The design was a little girly for Freddy, but in the spirit of gender neutral parenting we were perfectly happy for him to embrace flower power!

Freddy tried it out in his car chair and it went behind his neck easily as the micro bead filling moulded to fit. While he was awake though, he found it quite bulky, so I think he could have done with a smaller size.  However, 8 year old Kizzy was only to keen to take over the testing.  It was a perfect size and she consequently fell into a comfortable, rested slumber!

I can see our pillow being very useful when travelling and for snoozing at home.  I had a try and I love how the pillow moulds around you so comfortably.  It really is quite unique!

Zzzzz!

The Theraline Original Nursing Pillow retails for £44.95 online at www.theraline-shop.co.uk
The Kids' Neck Pillow in 'Little Flowers Yellow' is a very cost effective £14.90 also available from Theraline's online shop.

These super cute animal pillows are now available...this dragon is gorgeous!

Follow Theraline on Twitter and Facebook and check out www.theraline.co.uk for further product information.

Scuttlebug...The Folding Ladybird Trike

The Mookie Scuttlebug is an innovative toddler tricycle which is designed to look like a friendly bug.  With a Bumble Bee, Dragonfly, Flower Bug and Ladybird to choose from, there is a character to delight every toddler.  

The Scuttlebug  needs no assembly.  It folds flat for storage or transport in three easy steps, making it perfect to pop in the car for going on holiday or visiting friends or family.  It is lightweight, compact and durable.

The foot to floor ride-on technique is easy to master allowing fun and freedom for your toddler.  The Scuttlebug is stable with front wheel steering for excellent manoeuvrability.  It is great for developing balance and physical skills.  The wheels give a smooth, quiet ride making it perfect for indoor or outdoor play.

Freddy took to the Scuttlebug instantly exclaiming "Wow!" as it came out of the box.  He got straight onto to it and happily scuttled about using his feet to propel himself.  He wasn't sure about steering at first, but it was lovely to watch him figure out how to move in the direction he wanted using the handlebars (instead of stopping, picking it up and pointing it in the way he wanted to go!)

Learning to steer

Scuttling!

Here is our video review of Freddy playing on his Ladybird Scuttlebug.

We love the Scuttlebug.  It is fun for Freddy to play on and is developing skills which will help him to eventually ride a 2 wheeler when he's a bigger boy, such as balance and steering!  I love that it can be folded so easily, making it easy to store away and very portable.  The character of the Ladybird is so appealing with a cute face and patterned body/seat.  It is a really unique toy, perfect for toddlers.  

The Mookie Scuttlebug is available from Amazon for £24.99

Find Mookie Toys on Twitter or see more great toys at mookie-toys.co.uk

Harvest Cheweee Bars

Finding yummy snacks for the kids' lunchboxes that are more than just empty calories just got easier!  We were sent two packs of Harvest Cheweee bars, the UK's no.1 best selling cereal bar, to try out.  They have the appeal of containing chocolate or toffee chips, but they also contain wholegrain wheat and oats, are a source of fibre, vitamins and iron.  They also contain no artificial colourings or flavourings and are low in fat and salt.  Kids get the best of both worlds!

Each box contains 9 of the cereal bars, which are made in a nut free environment.  Each bar contains under 100 calories and has approximately 7% of a child's daily sugar intake.  So as a treat it is perfect as part of a balanced diet.

Tiny Tester Kizzy was willing to give the Harvest Chewee bars a try.  She tried both flavours that we were sent.

White Chocolate Chips

"This is very yummy.  Nicer than ordinary chocolate bars.  It is chewy and sticky...I like that.  I like the texture and the taste.  I'd like one for my school packed lunch!"

Toffee Chips


"These are nice but the toffee pieces are quite hard and stick in my teeth a bit.  It is very yummy though."

Both flavours were a hit and the bars will be featuring in her packed lunches for the summer term.

Kizzy chomps on her Cheweee Bar

Promotional boxes of Harvest Chewee Bars currently give you the chance to win 1 of 5 School Packed Lunch prizes worth £3000 plus Haven Family Holidays.  There are also other competitions online, so check it out!

Harvest Cheweee Bars are available in supermarkets with an RRP of £1.56