Product Recommendation: Kinetic Sand

I remember loving sand as a kid. We had a little sand box in the front yard, covered by an overhang so I could play every day of the year. I don't know how my parents could stand the sand that eventually came inside on hands, in pockets or via shoes. 

So when I read a review for kinetic sand- same feel as the most perfect castle making sand without the mess- I was all ears. A little more research showed there was a Pinterest hack - and a little more research still showed that the hack doesn't live up to the real thing. 

At $11 a pound it seemed sort of crazy. But with a credit and a lot of rainy days coming up it seemed like a good investment. 

Jumping for Joy

But actually just jumping for exercise. How can I say no to this request:
"McJessica, I need to jump. I need exercise today."

Love it!

I can't remember what this little thing is called. Santa brought it to the playroom. But it has three speeds, each with its own music. Speed #2 is known as the "ninja song." The pieces fold away for easy storage- and I love it on unexpected drizzly days, or super hot afternoons when we can't make it outside.

Product Recommendation: Pattern Blocks

Santa sent some pattern blocks to the play room- how thoughtful! The children enjoy matching shapes to the boards or making up their own patterns.

Product Recommendation: Stacking Robots

These wooden robots are lots of fun for all of my 2+ children. They are pretty noisy once tipped over, but there are so many different combinations that they never seem to become boring. The children learn through play about colors, patterns, symmetry and physics. I recommend getting (at least) two sets.

(Order from Amazon.com)

Product Recommendation: Foam Blocks

Costco succeeded: they put the holiday toys out early and I couldn't wait. The bag contains over 200 pieces, including lettered blocks, in tons of shapes and colors. Great because big tall towers fall without hurting innocent bystanders or making too much noise during quiet time. AND they are made out of some sort of rad antimicrobial material (swoon).

I have over three months and many trips to Costco planned (and unplanned). I don't think the playroom is big enough for my love of new toys.