Kids have Real Fear of weather!

     After the recent storms and tragedies in Oklahoma I thought it would be a good idea to write a blog about my experiences with Ms. E and her horrible fear of storms.  When Ms E was just 4 years old she went to school, after a very active evening of weather activity both here in Wichita Falls but mainly in OKC, and told her friends that her father and grandfather had been killed in a tornado.  Ms. E's teacher promptly called me to check on our family.  You see Ms E was a model student.  She never got in trouble or caused a problem and she surely didn't ever lie.  I was at a total loss.  Why in the world would she have made something like this up.  I jumped in the car and went to pick her up and try to find out what was going on. 

 



 

 

At first I scolded her for making something up.  But then she looked up at me and said "well mommy that could have happened...couldn't it have?"  I was shocked.  She had listened to all the news reports and alerts the night before when I didn't think she was paying any attention.  She new her Big Daddy (grandfather) was at our store in OKC and she hadn't seen her daddy that morning before school.  She didn't think that they had died but it was possible...wasn't it? 

 

It was from that point on that we started really being careful with what news she was exposed to.  We turned off the Today Show in the mornings when she woke up and we didn't watch the news with her in the room.  EVER!!!  We discussed with her different types of weather and what precaution we knew to take.  We talked and talked and talked...she always had more questions and wanted to re-hash what we had already discussed.  Sometimes it was exhausting.  I even visited with her pediatrician about the situation.  We continued to have issues for several years.  Sometimes if the weather was really bad I would be called to go and pick her up from school because she was so scared.  She would just repeat over and over...there isn't going to be a tornado....there isn't going to be a tornado.  How could this child who had never even been through a traumatic event like that be so affected by it.  Well she was...this was a REAL fear and it took years for it to subside. 

 

Now Ms E is 9 and just finished the 3rd grade.  I was very concerned that the recent weather events would dig back up all that fear, but we were lucky.  Yes she had questions and I did prepare her teachers but all in all she did great.  We have talked about it more than normal in the last few weeks but she isn't having nightmares and we aren't talking it about it for hours on end.  I am proud of how far she has come. 

 

I thought I would share some tips with you just in case you are presented with a similar situation with your kiddo's. 

 

Validate your child's anxiety. It is important for your child to know that his or her feelings are normal. Try not to trivialize something that seems to you like an average event. It is new and unfamiliar to him or her.

Answer all questions. Be honest and use real words to describe weather events. The more your child understands, the less he or she will be afraid. You should also educate yourself about weather events so that you are able to explain things accurately.

Turn off the TV. News reports have a tendency to sensationalize even the most minor of incidents. Limit your child's exposure to television news during a storm or other major weather event.

Be prepared to entertain during a storm. If a storm is approaching, prepare books and games. This may distract them during severe weather. It is possible that your child will continue to be anxious despite having fun activities. Be ready to hold and comfort him or her if this is the case.

Your child's health and comfort is most important. We at Kid's Stuff Superstore hope you stay safe and calm during this summer's tough weather season.

Our hearts and prayers go out to the families effected by these tragic events.  We pray for a miraculous healing both personal as well as for your communities. 

Welcome to the Club Daddy

Well that title has double meaning for this blog entry.  You see my sweet daddy asked if he could write a guest blog about a great new book we are carring in the stores.  He felt, and I agreed, that it would be better for you guys to hear about this book from him, since he is a member of the club.  So with out further adieu I would like to introduce you to my Daddy-Doug Tritton!!

 

 

I asked Anne to let me be a guest writer on her blog to tell you about a perfect Father’s Day gift for the soon to be father. I needed to be the one to write about this book because it is for men only. More on that later….but first let me introduce you to the author.

Phil Wrzesinski is a toy and juvenile specialty retailer in Jackson, Michigan. Somehow he also finds time to teach an expectant father’s class at his local hospital, be a published author, an accomplished educator at our industry conferences, a father and a husband. Over the years, I have heard a lot of motivational speakers, but what sets Phil apart from the rest is that his research lab is his store. Whatever he presents has been tested, tweaked and proven. The same goes for “ Welcome to the Club DADDY” All the Secrets About Becoming a Father (That No One is Telling You)

A few of my more senior staff thought this book a little “crass”.  As I said, this book is not for women, it’s for men. Now I know some of you will be sneaking a peek and even underlining points that you want to be sure get across to your father-to-be. That’s okay, just don’t get offended, and remember it’s written by a man to a man.

I promise you will be the beneficiary of him reading it. If I had had this information 39 years ago, I would have been a much more understanding and supportive husband and father.

Doug Tritton

PS Sorry Laurie for giving away your age.

PSS Thanks Anne for letting me on your blog. And thank you for the great job you do in keeping mothers informed through this blog and all the other StorkLand social Medias that you do.

 

Thanks Daddy!!!  I think this is a GREAT Fathers Day gift...If you would like to purchase you can do so through our website by clicking here.  Or come in and see us to get your daddy his copy!!!



2 Most Important Purchases for your baby

 

At StorkLand and Kids to your baby's safty and development is top priority for us.  We are knowlegable on a wide range of products and can help you make the best choices for both your baby and your budget!

Zoomorphs

 

I can't believe I haven't blogged about these before.  These are some of Mr. H and Ms. E favorite toys.  Well to be more specific-These are Mr. H's toys...Ms. E just likes to play with them too!  So what exactly is a Zoomorph?  I would compare it to Lego's but with animals.  You can build it just like the package shows or you can create your own. 

Each Package comes with specific animals and all the components to create them.  There are night crawlers, dinosaurs, zoo animals...lots of sets to choose from. 

 

You can build the animals any way you want...just check out these creations below.   

My kids have the best imagination!!! I love finding toys to help them exercise this.  They come up with fun games, names, and stories to go with each animal.  

Institute a Family Game Night!

My family LOVES to play games.  It all started with Shad and I back in college.  We use to host game nights at the house...well the truth is that when we met Shad was hosting a poker game every week for a bunch of guys....Well when I came along I didn't want to be one of the guys....so we started having a game night with girls and guys.  It was so much fun.  Then when ever Shad and I traveled we brought along cards to play.  Now with our kids we do the same thing, although not often enough! 

 

Here is my latest addiction and I can't wait to introduce my family to it.  Tenzi...Each Tenzi game comes with 4 sets of dice...and well...watch this CHEESY video on how to play. 

 

I will post another video of real families playing that isn't so CHEESY but I can't figure out how to get it on this same post. 

 

So if your family loves games or if you are wanting to start a family game night...this is a GREAT game to start with...from 4-99 EVERYONE can play!!!

BK's Hair Ties

 A few months ago my bestie and I were talking and she told me about her daughter's new business.  "WAIT a minute...did you say business?"  Well to make a long story short...here is their story. 

 

What do most 8 and 9 year olds do at a sleep over? Play games? Watch movies? For most yes, except for two special girls, Blair and Kensley. They came up with a plan to change the world.

They created a type of hair tie and headband which they creatively called BK's. They then came up with a logo, Facebook page and email. And with the support of their families, Kensley and Blair put their plan to action.

What’s their vision? It's simple. Make BK’s, sell them and donate the money to people in need. They then picked a different charity/organization for each month and are now racing toward their goal to change the world for the better.

Yes it was that simple. You see someone in need, you help them.

With your purchase and support, Blair and Kensley are changing the world $1 at a time.

How it works:

You purchase an assortment of hair ties and headbands.

$1 from each hair tie and $2 from each headband go toward the charity/organization of the month.

 

 

These to exceptional young ladies spend their free time working to change the world.  They are lead by great examples in their mama's.  I just couldn't be prouder of them. 

 

B and K...Annabeth is here supporting you every step of the way.  You both make my heart smile.  StorkLand and Kids Too is proud to announce that you can now help BK's Hair Ties change the world $1 at a time right here in Wichita Falls.  We have a jar of hair ties and headbands...hand made with love and commitment by B and K.  These girls have amazing taste and style.  You will love what they have selected for you. 

 

 

Babiators

If you know me at all...you know that I ALWAYS have a pair of sunglasses on top of my head...Day or Night.  1. It holds my hair back and 2. My eyes are super sensitive to sun light. 

Sunlight can be so damaging to a child's eyes.  I have found myself fussing at my kiddo's about looking at the sun...especially on the way to school.  It just seems like the light is blinding. 

 

 

 

So here is my newest addiction..BABIATORS!!! These glasses are not only too cool...but very affordable, safe, and warrantied....who gives a warranty with kids sunglasses...well they do!

This is directly from their website. 

Safe!

When babies grab onto something, where’s the first place it goes? Their mouths! That’s why it’s imperative that anything made for young children be safe – and that’s the idea behind Babiators flexible rubber frame design.
We test every shipment to ensure that Babiators comply with the most stringent regulations in the world for BPA, phthalates, lead, and other metals. Our top quality 100% UVA and UVB protection lenses are also impact and shatter-resistant.
So when you buy Babiators, you can rest assured that you are buying the best sunglasses out there for your little one!

Durable!

Babiators are incredibly durable – our flexible rubber frames consistently bounce back after being bent, twisted, or sat upon!

Awesome!

Babiators are available in two sizes (Ages 0-3 and Ages 3-7+) and ten awesome colors: Black Ops Black, Blue Angels Blue, Rockstar Red, Princess Pink, Wicked White, Superstar Silver, Nighthawk Navy, Beach Baby Blue, Limelight Lime, and Sneak Attack Pink & Black.

Designed by an F-18 fighter pilot for your little aviator, Babiators are sure to make your child the Maverick of the playground!

Guaranteed!

What is the most common complaint about children’s sunglasses:
“My child will break or lose them!”
We’re pretty darn sure your Babiators won’t break, and we believe that protecting kids’ eyes is too important to overlook simply because sunglasses might get lost. That’s why if a child's Babiators are lost or broken, we will replace them!

 

 

UV Protection!
Babiators protect your child's eyes at a critical time – Babiators’ lenses offer 100% protection from UVA and UVB rays.
Why should we be concerned about protecting our children’s eyes from UV exposure? Children’s sensitive skin needs sunscreen to limit dangerous UV exposure and their eyes need protection too. Here are the facts:

• When compared to adult’s eyes, children’s eyes have fewer natural protections against UV exposure, making them more likely to be damaged.
• The more time you spend outdoors, the more susceptible you are to sun damage. Published scientific research concludes that up to 50% of lifetime UV ray exposure may occur by age 18, so it’s imperative that we protect our children’s eyes now!
• According to Dr. J. Keller Wortham, a physician with Optimum Wellness Family Medical Group in Los Angeles, excessive exposure to the sun during daily activities can contribute to cataract formation, macular degeneration, pinguecula and pterygium (growth on the eye's surface), photokeratitis (snow blindness), and skin cancer on the eyelids. Those are a lot of big words, but the bottom line is this: protecting your children's eyes is critical.
• The EPA recommends you wear sunglasses even on days with a low UV index!

Given that children’s eyes do not have as many natural protections from UV, children spend more time in the sun than adults, and time in the sun can lead to permanent eye damage, we feel it just makes sense for kids to wear sunglasses!
When it’s bright outside, adults wear sunglasses – our children should do the same!

 

Right now I don't have these available on our website because they are going to sell like hot cakes and I don't want to be out of a color that someone might order...(no real time inventory for this mom and pop store)  That being said please feel free to give us a call 940-766-1234 and we will do the sale right over the phone and ship them out for you the same day. 



Nested Bean - Zen Swaddle

The Nested Bean-Zen Swaddle has just arrived at our Wichita Falls store and will soon be in OKC and Tyler.  You all know how passionate I am about swaddling.  Swaddling totally saved my sanity with Ms. E and Mr. H. 

 

I think that the Zen Swaddle is so unique in its design and totally solves and issue that lots of moms and babies have.  Watch the video above for a great overview of this really cool product. 

There used to be a really neat product on the market called the Zacky...It was a weighted hand that you could put on baby to simulate mom or dads touch.  I thought it was cool but lacking in some areas...the Zen Swaddle takes that concept a step further with adding the simulation of touch to a swaddle.  Of course we know that nothing can replace our loving touch but anything we can do to help pacfi baby for a couple extra hours of sleep (aka: sanity) is a great thing. 

 

 Buy Now



StorkLand and Kids Too!!!

Miss Plunkett WOW!!!

I am in LOVE with our new Miss Plunkett bow systems.  Yes that's right I said system....For years we have carried stacking bows to offer more for your money.  By your bows in different colors and get a custom bow to match every outfit....Now we can offer that with our flowers....This unique system begins with a clip and post...select your flowers, feathers, lace, etc... and screw on your broach.  BAM!!! Custom Flower to match EVERY outfit.  Prices on these pieces begin at just $1.99.  Check out these gorgeous examples.  

There are endless possibilities ...You wont find a more affordable and quality option out there.  

Chair from 5months to 99 -Keekaroo

This is the chair I got for Mr. H when we were done with our high chair.  (the only reason we used a high chair and not this from the beginning was I already had one from Ms. E.)  He is now 4 1/2 and still sits in it every day....for that matter is it "the" chair in our house...all the kids friends want to sit in that chair and Mr. H and Ms. E constantly fight over it.  In the mornings when there are 4 other available "big" chairs he still chooses to sit in this chair. 

We also use it as a step stool.  Mr. H LOVES to cook...so much so that when I tell him to stop growing so fast his classic response to me...is "mama, I have to grow up so I can cook and drive by myself"  This little guys loves to cook with me.  We take our keekaroo and turn it so the back is up against the cabinets and he uses it as a step stool.  Well for that matter I use it as a step stool as well.  It is so much better than having to drag my kitchen stool out....This chair really is for a lifetime.  Who needs a high chair that you will use for 2 years when you can have a Keekaroo Right Height chair!!!

Oh and I forgot to mention the special pads...and tray.  The chair comes with the infant cushion and tray and when they out grow those you can purchase the comfort cushions in 6 different color choices. 

Travel Happens Sealed Wet Bag

January 2013: Beach Baby- "Moms can protect their resort totes from wet swimwear with large waterproof bags from Itzy Ritzy. The bag's sealed seams keep dampness and sand at bay and make traveling back from the cabana mess-free."

 It's a Fitness Sidekick:

For-outdoor gear, exercise gear, or adult accessories

Selling points:
- Stow clothes, towels, water bottles, and more in this washable bag. Keeps dirty and odors all zipped up.
- As seen in November 2012 Boston Globe as a Style Watch tool for the gym!

It's a Travel Accessory:   Use your Travel Happens with luggage, tote bags, or other on the go items

What a  Luggage saver: no more burst shampoo bottles ruining a bag of clothes! Sealed seams keep messes contained.

 

 

Baby Giraffe

Yesterday we had the CUTEST little boy in the store.  He was just a smiling and talking...but started getting hungry.  His poor mama was trying to shop while leaning over the top of the stroller holding his bottle...she looked so uncomfortable.  Vikki and I saw a great opportunity to try out the new Baby Giraffe Spine and Clamp.  

This arm is so neat...it has a HEAVY duty clamp that will work on your stroller, carseat, shopping cart, high chair...etc...and I promise..I can barely clip it on so there is no way baby can get it off.  On the end of the arm is an adapter for 3 separate attachments: sunshade (included in your kit and it folds up just like the ones you use in your car into this neat little bag) , a mirror (for when you are driving so you can see what baby is doing when they are rear facing), and a loop for bottles or toys.  This arm can be manipulated into any angel or position.  

Our little man here was able to easily drink his bottle...and when he was done he just spit the nipple out.  Of course this mama went home with one....but I can't even tell you how handy the Baby Giraffe would have been for me.  Toys, Bottles, Sun shade, and mirror.....so many option.  

Click HERE to purchase!

Teddy Needs A Bath

This is the neatest new product.  It was just on SharkTank and got offers by 2 of the sharks.  Your baby's stuffed animals and lovies can be super dirty, covered with allergens and dust mites.  But how do you get your little one to give that Teddy a Bath and how can you be sure it will come out looking and feeling the same as before the wash?  That is where Teddy Needs a Bath comes in.  Used in conjunction with the cotton candy scented dryer sheets your baby will literally ask you to wash their favorite teddy.  The key is the cotton candy scented dryer sheets...once that smell fades they will want it back and ask you to re-wash their lovie.  You can wash those favorite toys with assurance that they will not be ruined!!!  

To Purchase Teddy Needs a Bath Bag online click here

$14.99

To Purchase the Cotton Candy Dryer Sheets click here

$5.99

3 reasons why Teddy Needs a Bath! should be in your home.

#1 Health ~ We are "Pediatrician Recommended"!

The National Allergy Association recommends washing your child's/pet's stuffed toys once a month to prevent the spread of germs and dust mites. Studies have been done to show that washing a stuffed toy in hot water and then drying it in hot air effectively kills harmful bacteria and dust mites. Studies have also shown that exposing your children to dust mites at an early age can cause the onset of Asthma. Households have been over-looking stuffed animals when cleaning their homes and nurseries for centuries. Teddy Needs a Bath! aims to bring awareness to the importance of germ and dust free stuffed toys!

#2 The Environment

Now, more than ever, we are all aware of the negative effects we are having on this planet. Teddy Needs a Bath! is a great way to reduce the amount of toys being thrown out, facilitate the idea of reusing the toys we have, or washing them and recycling to a new owner. What a great way to give back to a person in need and the environment all at the same time :)

#3 Save Money

In the past, it may have seemed easier to just discard a dirty stuffed toy and replace it with a new one. But in these times of over-spending we have learned how to cut back on unnecessary purchases. Teddy Needs a Bath! makes toys look, feel and smell brand new, eliminating the need for new toys.

Baby Brezza Perfect Temp Water Kettle.

This kettle holds 56 oz of water and heats it to the perfect 98 degrees.  Then it holds this temp consistently so your water is always ready for babies bottles. 

We have had several requests for similar products that were REALLY expensive.  This kettle is just $44.99.  I just love the idea of babies bottles being instantly ready.  No more waiting for water to heat up...no more waiting for the bottle warmer....NO MORE WAITING!!!!  We only got 4 in so come grab yours first. 

Baby K'tan SALE!!!

 Baby K'tan just announced that they are authorizing a 20% off sale January 10th-15th. You can get one of these fabulous carriers during the sale for just $39.96! Stop by and let us show you how easy babywearing can be. No long pieces of fabric to learn to wrap around your body.

Make sure to check out the latest color in Heather Grey!

• Free matching sash included - sash converts to handy storage tote!
• Easy to use! No wrapping or buckling.
• Innovative double loop design - cross between a sling, wrap and structured carrier.
• Built in back support band - second loop provides additional support and security.
• Carries infants and toddlers in multiple positions, from 8-35 lbs.
• Made of 100% soft natural cotton.

30-50% OFF Fall and Winter Fashions

 

 

Just a quick note to let you know that all our Fall and Winter Fashions in Wichita Falls and Tyler are now 30-50% OFF.  This sale is not being advertised until Saturday so be sure and ask for your discount at the register. 

 

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