SHow Archives - Rave & Review

Experiencing the Seattle International Auto Show with kids

Hey, Seattle! The Seattle International Auto Show opens its doors tomorrow, Thursday, Nov. 9. Like previous years, it will be packed with all the auto industry has to offer including electric and alternative fuel vehicles, ultra-high-end exotics, luxury rides, test drives and so much more. Thinking about taking the kids this year? I highly recommend it! And, going to … Read more

The Head and the Heart – back in Seattle at last

My love of The Head and the Heart started with a single song. A song I loved so much that I would listen to the radio just to catch it playing. We bought the album after only hearing that one song, and it was quickly added to our daily playlist. And, it never came off.

These songs quickly became the soundtrack to the last few years, and I’ve found that the more I’ve listened to it, the more I love it. But, it's not just me. In this house, we're all fans of The Head and the Heart. I figure the kids can listen to crappy music when they can pay for it themselves, so until then they can choose from our music libraries. And, it just so happens that they chose The Head and the Heart. Good choice, kiddos.

Sofia the First: Ready to be a Princess on DVD

Much to my daughter’s dismay, I must have been the last mom on Earth to hear of Sofia the First. She has been trying for months to get me to buy Sofia toys and games whenever we saw them in stores, and it wasn’t until about two weeks ago that I realized they were licensed after a new show on Disney Jr.

So, I did my reading and found that Sofia the First is all about a little girl who becomes a princess overnight when her mom marries the king. The show is about adjusting to life as royalty while dealing with normal issues every kid faces, like honesty and loyalty and courage. I love the premise because it shows girls that even though Sofia may be living a fairytale, it’s important to know that she has problems just like everyone else.

My daughter was ridiculously excited when we received the new Sofia the First DVD last week with 5 new episodes from the TV series. After watching the first episode, she turned to me and said “this is the BEST SHOW EVER” and snuggled in. My daughter absolutely loves the show now that she's seen the new DVD, and I love that she’s learning lessons about telling the truth, believing in herself, and trying new things.

Welcome to the world of Mike the Knight

by Susan, editor and reviewer

I'm not going to lie; my kids love TV. Sure, we love playing outside together, and building with blocks, but they are also big fans of the TV. When I was first pregnant, visions of sharing princess movies with my kids danced in my head. So far, I have boys. Boys who are not interested in princesses. Thank goodness for Mike the Knight!

When we first discovered Mike and his friends in Glendragon, I was very happy. It's a very vibrant show that really teaches kids about problem solving, being a good friend, and doing the right thing! "Be a knight; do it right!" is always the end motto – and the one most repeated by my 3 year old.

As a parent, I really appreciate the positive message the show teaches, including some deeper things like equality, accepting all people (or trolls or Vikings) for who they are. Mike, his horse Galahad, and his two dragon friends Sparkie and Squirt have many adventures, and work together to help Mike find the knightly way to handle every situation; including getting along with his little sister Evie!

Sound the Octo-Alert: Octonauts toys are here!

Remember my post about how much my kiddos adore the Octonauts TV show? Well, the love they have for the show has only grown deeper in the past few weeks and it’s now the only thing my daughter wants to watch these days. Her world has shifted from one of unicorns and rainbows to something … Read more

Explore, Rescue, and Protect with the Octonauts Television Series

Growing up, I hated cartoons. Before you go checking for a pulse or wondering if I’m actually a robot disguised as a girl, I should clarify that I liked TV and I loved movies, but I just didn’t like kid’s cartoons. Unfortunately for my kids, this dislike has continued into adulthood, and I just can’t stomach most shows geared towards kids.

What can I say? I like history, learning shows, and anything I can take away something from. All of this and more is why I love the new British Octonauts series for preschoolers age 2-6 on Disney Junior that is fun, engaging, and has my kids fascinated by all things under the sea.

Catch Yo Gabba Gabba! LIVE!: Get the Sillies Out! when they visit your city

Last Friday we officially Got The Sillies out when Yo Gabba Gabba Live was in Seattle at the gorgeous Paramount Theatre. Being that this was our third year attending {There’s a Party In My City in 2010 and It’s Time to Dance in 2011}, we pretty much knew what we were in for as far … Read more

New Barbie Apparel Line Available at Kmart {Our Barbie Fashion Show}

Recently Barbie has become a very big deal at our house. Maybe this is because many of my old Barbie’s are making their way from Nana’s house or maybe it’s because the charm and ageless allure of Barbie is one that appeals to nearly every little girl. But, whatever the reason, I’m thrilled that Barbie … Read more

Hoover at the Home + Housewares Show in Chicago

All of the Rave and Review crew have been in Chicago this past week as guests of Hoover at the International Home + Housewares Show where we got to see firsthand all of the new products for 2010. Hoover was celebrating the unveiling of their newest vacuums and cleaning units, as well as announcing their partnership … Read more