While this blog primarily belongs to Madison, I have been having a great time sharing my parenting tips with you. Today I want to share something that most parents have to deal with. As you are aware we have some new members in our family. If you haven't seen them you may want to check out our post. With new pets comes responsibilities. Are your children begging you to let them keep that cute little puppy or kitten? Bringing home a new pet is a joyful occasion, but it also means a lot of responsibility. Although as the parent, you’ll be the primary caregiver, trust me I know, but you shouldn't be expected to do everything. If you’re adding a pet to your family, here are some great tips for teaching your kids to help take care of your new pet.

Disclaimer: Kohls provided me with Kohls gifts. No other compensation was received. Though the products were free, opinions are 100% my very own. 

Have you heard about the Kohl's Cares Program? When it comes to kids and education Kohl's really cares. We love highlighting companies that give back to the community and Kohl's just happens to be one of those companies. Kohl's sells kid friendly merchandise through the Kohl's Cares program, and donates 100% of the net profit  to support children's health and education initiatives nationwide. The collections don't last long so you may want to go and gets yours ASAP. Mommy and I actually have a few of the books, with one of them being "The Cat in the Hat". This is such a great way to build your library and help out a great cause.


Get a jump start on back-to-school with the beloved Mercer Mayer storybooks, Little Critter, the newest Kohl’s Cares merchandise collection! Kohl’s Department Stores is offering exclusive merchandise from Mercer Mayer’s Little Critter for just $5 each, available now through September 20.

If you're a fan of the Avengers then you'd be delighted to know that Iron Man and Captain America join forces in a new, original animated adventure, "Marvel’s Iron Man & Captain America: Heroes United” available only on Digital HD, On-Demand and Disney Movies Anywhere on July 29th.  Iron Man and Captain America battle to keep the Red Skull and his triggerman, Taskmaster, from unleashing an army of Hydra Brutes on the world!  Enjoy surprising twists and a special appearance by one of your favorite Marvel Super Heroes in this action packed feature featuring the voices of Adrian Pasdar and Roger Craig reprising their roles as Iron Man and Captain America, and Clancy Brown as the villainous Taskmaster.

Check out a clip from Marvel’s Iron Man & Captain America: Heroes United!





Disclosure: Growing Up Madison receives press releases to share with her readers. No monetary compensation was provided unless noted otherwise. All opinions are 100% my own. Some posts may contain affiliate links that I receive commission for payment from in exchange for referrals. In the event of a giveaway, the sponsor is responsible for delivery of the prize, unless otherwise noted in the posting. Giveaways are not sponsored by Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+ or any other social media site. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I personally believe will be a good fit for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Disclaimer: I'm a Lalaloopsy Girl SIP (Sew Important Person) and I get to share with you this brand new line.


It's me again bringing to you two brand new Lalaloopsy Girls. It's fun being a Lalaloopsy Girl SIP (Sew Important Person) because not only do I get to know the inside and out before they hit the stores, but I also get to share them with you. You my readers who love Lalaloopsy as much as I do. If you may remember I've already introduced you to five of them and now here is another two. I also have a treat coming up for you as well very soon. I was able to play with Jewel Sparkles & Mittens Fluff N Stuff and I will be able to share my experience with you as well here on the blog.

Summer is still in full swing!  If there's one thing that mommy loves doing during the summer, it's my hair. When it comes to hair care we've done quite a few things with it. I've done ponytails, you may have even seen my hair braided complete with beads and I just love them. I like to think of my hairstyle as an extension of me and I love having different styles that says I'm unique. With school reopening sooner than later for most kids, Cozy wants to help you look your best with some styles that would say "this is me".


Along with wearing suitable clothing for recreational activities, your little one’s hairstyle should be taken into consideration. Cozy Friedman, kids’ hair authority and owner of Cozy's Cuts for Kids salons in New York City,  provides many practical and effortless hairstyles for kids to enjoy what is left of their summer days. Parents rely on Cozy Friedman and Cozy’s Complete Guide to Girls’ Hair to style their kids tresses for the summer heat. Whether it be a basic bun or looped pigtails, Cozy’s Complete Guide to Girls Hair provides parents with hairstyle ideas for their kids to for any occasion, even when it comes time for back to school.

Here are a few styles that you and your little ones would love.

What's one thing that all parents with little kids must have? If you answered a car seat then you'll be correct. Moms taking to the road this summer will be happy to learn about the ProComfort and Platinum car seat series from Evenflo, both designed to promote a safer, more peaceful ride. From an exclusive gel-matrix material in the padding of the seat to temperature management fabric, the advanced features and technology in the seats in these two lines help mom focus her attention on the road instead of an upset, uncomfortable baby -- reducing unsafe situations that can lead to accidents in the first place.

Disclaimer: I received products  for review purposes. No other compensation was received. Though the product was free, opinions are 100% my very own. 


As my readers know, I'm very much into fashion and own an extensive clothing collection. The one thing that was missing was a motorcycle jacket. While I have quite a few jean jackets and even a leather jacket, there was no motorcycle jacket in my wardrobe. When Up and Away Jackets contacted my mommy about adding them to our Back to School guide, mommy said yes! After all we both think that going back to school in one of these awesome jackets says "Hey I'm cool", and who doesn't want to look cool on their first day back? Up and Away is committed to fulfilling the dreams of children everywhere who desire to be fighter pilots, astronauts, race car drivers, rock stars and star athletes when they grow up.  In addition, they take the outerwear category and make it fun, while at the same time promoting Americana to kids. Their jacket comes in 12 sizes, starting at infant size 12 Months and goes up to youth size 12. So even your youngest can look cool.

Source: Up and Away Jackets

Disclaimer: I received products  for review purposes. No other compensation was received. Though the product was free, opinions are 100% my very own. 


Madison Mommy here. There are quite a few things that we believe in and charity is one of them. They say charity begins at home and we wholeheartedly believe that. Today Madison won't be doing this review but I will. There aren't a lot of companies that I contact when it comes to doing a review, but when I happened upon this company I just had to contact them. The funny thing is, if they hadn't agreed I would have ordered a watch anyway and I do intend on ordering another. 1:Face is a charitable company that makes watches that all supports a cause and each watch only costs $40. Having a dad who recently died from cancer and a mother who currently has it, there was no mistaking what watch I wanted to receive.
I received my watch and the first thing I noticed was the packaging. It comes in this really neat box that states, THIS IS NOT A WATCH. You got that right! This is more than a watch. This is something that helps others. I know that I spend more than $40 a month drinking overpriced coffee at Starbucks so this is an investment in someone's life. At this present time there are watches to support causes for Aids, Cancer, Water, Hunger, Environment, Breast Cancer, Education, Red Cross and ASPCA. Each is also a different color so you can either support the cause you stand for, or you can buy your favorite color. No matter how you choose to do it, you'll be doing good.

For my Cancer support 1:Face Watch. This was the dynamics.

Who:
American Cancer Society
What:
An organization that helps spread cancer awareness by providing programs, treatment and research.
Why:
To help find a cure for the world's most lethal disease.

Like I mentioned when I first started this review. Each watch represents a cause so you're not really spending $40 on just a watch. For example in my case, just 1 watch supports 8 cancer patients. 1 watch purchased for hunger would be able to feed 16 children while you would need to buy 14 watches for breast cancer to help someone get a mammogram. The more you buy the more you are able to help.


Now back to my watch that I received. It is made of soft silicone and is fits easily on your wrist. It is a little different from the watches I usually wear but that just makes it even cooler.


And to prove how adjustable it really is, the following photo is Madison wearing the 1:Face Watch. Remember she's only 2 with a tiny wrist and it fits her. So you can feel safe to say that you can buy this for any member of your family.


The face is actually a mirror and I was able to look at myself. The time itself doesn't show up on the watch unless you push one of those buttons on the side. The only thing that I would say that I wish was included, was an instruction booklet. You'll just have to play around with it until you get the time, but it was pretty easy to do. I was able to figure it out in less than 5 minutes.


Now one of the disadvantage of having the mirrored face is that it's kind of difficult to see the time in a well lit setting, such as outside in the sun. It is a lot more noticeable inside. The watches do come with a 1 year warranty and they are all water resistant up to 96 feet under water.


Can you find it within yourself to order one or two or more of these watches? Not only will you be helping out the cause of your choice, but you also get a really great watch to boot. Two in one if you ask me. At this moment 1:Face Watches are only available for purchase on the 1:Face website and at Journeys stores. The great news is though that they are available for international shipping, so no matter where in the world you are, you can help. Join the movement and help save the world 1 Face Watch at a time!

1:Face Watch I know will definitely get Madison's TWO TINY THUMBS UP because it certainly gets my big ones!



Disclosure: Growing Up Madison receives products in order to conduct reviews. No monetary compensation was provided unless noted otherwise. All opinions are 100% my own. Some posts may contain affiliate links that I receive commission for payment from in exchange for referrals. In the event of a giveaway, the sponsor is responsible for delivery of the prize, unless otherwise noted in the posting. Giveaways are not sponsored by Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+ or any other social media site. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I personally believe will be a good fit for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Madison Mommy here. I have been focusing a lot on Back to School since it's right around the corner. However, I want to get back today with our usual Saturday tips. Today I want to give you some tips on setting up your perfect Nursery. Deciding how to decorate your baby's nursery can be a ton of fun, but it can be very overwhelming as well. After all, one look on Pinterest or one walk down the baby aisles is all it takes to see that, when it comes to getting your nursery in order, you have plenty of choices. Now is not the time to stress out, however. Keep the process fun and stress-free with these six tips for getting your nursery in order.

Disclaimer: I'm a Lalaloopsy Girl SIP (Sew Important Person) and I get to share with you this brand new line.


I hope you enjoyed the first peek of the new Lalaloopsy Girls: Jewel Sparkles & Mitten's Fluff N' Stuff.

This week's Lalaloopsy Girls spotlight is on:
Pix E. Flutters
Bea Spells-A-Lot
Crumbs Sugar Cookie

Disclaimer: I received products  for review purposes. No other compensation was received. Though the product was free, opinions are 100% my very own. 

It's Fashion Friday and recently mommy and I went on a tiny tirade about children dressing appropriately as children. Well I want to introduce you to another company who thinks the way we do. I love looking cute whenever I dress up, be it to go to the park or to a function. Nothing screams, "look at me" than when you are well dressed. This company that I am going to introduce to you has been in the business of making little kids look their best for the past 35 years. Almost as old as mommy but not quite. They have been creating quality playwear that reflects the joy and innocence of childhood. Introducing Le Top, a family-owned company based out of sunny Concord, California - just across the bay from San Francisco - Le Top proudly designs clothing and accessories for children ages 0-7, for both boys and girls.

source: Le Top

Disclaimer: This is a Press Release and Growing Up Madison received nothing in exchange for this post. We thought it was too good not to share with our readers.  

My brothers have been patiently waiting to hear news of the new Skylanders Trap Team video game coming this fall. If you're a big fan of the Skylanders franchise like we are then you would be happy to know that today at San Diego Comic-Con,  Activision Publishing, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Activision Blizzard, Inc. (NASDAQ: ATVI) announced plans to  bring “Eon’s Elite,” a new set of premium toys, to Skylanders® fans worldwide this fall. The limited edition Eon’s Elite will introduce eight must-have collectible versions of fan-favorite Skylanders characters, beginning with Spyro and Chop Chop.

You may have noticed that we didn't have any posts yesterday. It's been a really busy month for us but we're not complaining. Yesterday mommy wanted to take a blogging break so she can regroup. That's why today's Almost Wordless Wednesday post is being published on Thursday. Yes we're late but better late than never right?

Disclaimer: I received products  for review purposes. No other compensation was received. Though the product was free, opinions are 100% my very own. 

I am going to be totally honest with you. Mommy is horrible when it comes to doing anything crafty. Sure she can do the easy stuff but it usually includes checking out Pinterest and the internet for ideas. When contacted by M is for Monster to take a look at their boxes I was really hoping that mommy would say yes for me, and guess what? She did. Mommy knows when she needs help and is not afraid to take it. Now you're probably wondering what kind of help this was. Well M is for Monster is a monthly subscription box service which retails for $39.95 and includes everything moms and kids need for each project – glue, pencils, paint, crayons, etc. There are 2 different subscriptions - Toddler (ages 2-3) and Preschool (ages 4-5). You all know which one I got. You guessed right! The toddler box.

I participated in a Blog Blast on behalf of Mom Central for Urbini. I received information from Urbini to facilitate my post as well as a promotional item to thank me for my participation.

Madison Mommy here to introduce you to a new line of stroller sold exclusively at Walmart both online and in stores. A stroller can be a new moms dream or a new moms nightmare. While there are different requirements that each mother look for when purchasing or even receiving a stroller,  one of the ones that I look for is that it must be lightweight and easy to fold. Originally living in NYC I took the subway and the buses quite often and one of the rule was that your stroller must be folded before getting on the bus. Now no-one likes waiting behind you while you're struggling to fold that stroller because this is NY and everyone is in a rush. Living in an apartment building I also needed it to be lightweight because I had 3 flights of stairs to go up. With a sleeping baby in a stroller that 15lb stroller now becomes at least 30lbs or more. It was a nightmare! When I moved to Colorado and had Madison my requirements slightly changed. While I preferred it to be lightweight, it didn't necessarily have to be but I still wanted it to be easy to fold but this time I wanted it to be cute. I drove everywhere and this was my way of saying, look at this stroller, isn't it awesome! Introducing the Urbini line of strollers which has all that I mentioned and then some.

Disclaimer: I'm a Lalaloopsy Girl SIP (Sew Important Person) and I get to share with you this brand new line.

I am a Lalaloopsy Girl SIP (Sew Important Person) which means that I get to bring you news of this brand new line from Lalaloopsy before they are in stores. You'll get to see a sneak peek of the line just from me. Are you a big fan of Lalaloopsy as I am? If you are then I want to introduce you to the brand NEW line Lalaloopsy Girls!  As you know, the Lalaloopsy dolls were once rag dolls who magically came to life when their very last stitch was sewn, taking on the personalities of the materials that were used to make them. Now, they're a little older, a little more colorful, and a little more quirky- they are Lalaloopsy Girls! Today I get to introduce you to two of the newest characters from Lalaloopsy Girls.

Disclaimer: This is a Press Release and Growing Up Madison received nothing in exchange for this post. We thought it was too good not to share with our readers and there's a giveaway to boot!   


I love companies that gives back and pediped® proves that they love giving back just as much as the next guy. Mommy and I value education and when a company gives back to our schools we just have to support them. After all each and every child deserves an education with no exceptions. Having a brother who is autistic I totally mean it when I say that EVERYONE deserves an equal education. With the pediped® ♥ schools Initiative program, this gives parents yet another reason to shop the award-winning brand, and we all know that schools, now more than ever, need all the help they can get.

Disclaimer: This is a Press Release and Growing Up Madison received nothing in exchange for this post. We thought it was too good not to share with our readers.  



It's our Mommy Monday and boy do I have something just for you mommies and daddies out there.  When was the last time you had an actual vacation or even a staycation? Wishful thinking you're saying right? When do we as parents get to have some alone time without our little ones right under foot. You can't even go to the bathroom sometimes without a little one banging on the door wanting to be let in. Seems like we can never get a break. Guess what, getting that break every once in a while is much needed. You have to be able to take some time for yourself, even if it's at least once a month.

Disclaimer: I received products  for review purposes. No other compensation was received. Though the product was free, opinions are 100% my very own. 


I have a treat for you today! It's a big kids review and my brothers and dad will be doing the review for this game. We were recently sent Transformers: Rise of the Dark Spark for the Xbox One which is a tie in with the new Transformers Movie that is currently in theaters now. For all you Bumble Bee fans you may want to pick this up!

TRANSFORMERS™: RISE OF THE DARK SPARK is published by Activision Publishing Inc and is currently available on the following platforms, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PlayStation® 4, PlayStation® 3, Nintendo Wii U, 3DS & Windows PC.

Players: 1-4 (Single-player Story campaign; 1-4 players online in co-op Escalation mode)
ESRB Rating: T (Teen), 3DS E10+

Pricing: $59.99 (Xbox One/PS4), $39.99 (Xbox 360/PS3/Wii U/PC), $29.99 (3DS)

Disclaimer: I received products  for review purposes. No other compensation was received. Though the product was free, opinions are 100% my very own. 


Mommy and I are of the opinion that little kids should be allowed to be little kids, and I'm talking about dressing appropriately for our ages. We actually have a post that we plan to share with you because of what we have been seeing lately. Lately it seems to be a trend where toddlers are dressed up to look like young adults with midriff tops and booty shorts and parents seem to think that it's cool. Here on Growing Up Madison there will be none of that. As a toddler I carry myself as such and mommy and I will continue to continue to carry on our good name in bringing you the best of the best. Now before mommy and I go on a rant, I want to bring you another of the best. Introducing Joe-Ella Dresses. Joe-Ella is a Canadian company (Hello Canada!) that designs beautiful dresses for little girls and tweens too. There you can find dresses for your newborn-toddler, girls 2-7 and tweens 8-16 for any occasion.

* This post contains affiliate and referral links.


It's that time of the month again. Since I'm too young for that time of the month, it can only be Citrus Lane time! I have been sharing my Citrus Lane boxes with you for quite some time and this month is no exception. For those who are new to Growing Up Madison and the whole subscription box thing, let me explain what Citrus Lane is all about. It is a monthly curated subscription for newborns up to age 5. Each month a box is sent to you with at least 5 items that is tailored to your child's age. There are three subscription levels and the longer you subscribe the cheaper it becomes. Subscription starts at $29.99/monthly. If you are interested in seeing what I got my last box, you can take a look at my 29th Month Old Box.

Disclaimer: I received products  for review purposes. No other compensation was received. Though the product was free, opinions are 100% my very own. 


Summer has been officially here for quite some time now in my hometown. I have been seeing temperatures in the 80's and while it's the perfect weather to be outdoors, you really need to think about protecting your little one from the harmful UV rays of the sun. While we need Vitamin D which is mostly derived from sunlight, too much of a good thing isn't good at all. Now we lather up with sunscreen, but did you know that wearing a hat can actually do as much good? That's why I'm here to introduce you to Jamie Rae Hats. Prolonged UV rays exposure can cause sunburn and also pre-mature aging. Now I'm only 2 and would prefer to keep on looking like a 2 year old for as long as possible.


Before I go into how adorable these hats are, let me tell you a bit about Jamie Rae and her story.
Jamie a mother of two always had a love for hats. Unhappy with what was available in terms of hats in the baby market she decided to create a unique, traditional and most importantly, comfortable cotton cap. With such a great response from local boutiques, friends, family and even people around the community, she decided to take it a step further and share them with the world. You can read more of Jamie's story on the website.

I was sent a few of Jamie Rae Hats to review, which included the Sun Hat and the Cotton Hat, and I have to say that they are even more beautiful in person than they are on the website. The highlight of each hat is the adorable flower that each comes with. You actually have the choice to choose from a variety of flowers which includes, Daisies, Geraniums, Peonies and Roses. Now you just have to choose your favorite.


Each sun hat comes specially treated with UV cutting agents from Avensa Specialty Chemicals, increasing it's ability to minimize harmful UV radiation. This significantly reduces both Solar UV-A and UV-B radiation.

They also come with a chin strap that helps keep them on your head. While it is not detachable, you can tuck it under your hat for those who don't like chin straps or anything under their chins.


The cotton hats that I was sent were beautiful and perfect for any season. While I preferred the wide brim of the sun hat, these protected my ears and would be perfect for the fall when the weather starts getting cooler. They are made of 100% cotton if the cotton hat didn't clue you in and they are very comfortable.


The cotton stretches and conforms to your head and I have to admit I have a very big head. No worries because they fit perfectly. They are perfect hat for picture taking! Each hat comes with a care label but it is highly recommended that you hand wash in cold water or spot clean only. Be sure to keep your applique flower dry and then lay flat to dry.


With the colors available and flowers available in each design it may be difficult choosing the one you want. If you're shopping for a friend and you still can't decide, they do offer gift certificates which you can get instead. Did I mention that they are also available for boys as well. Yes boys do need protection too.


Well what about sizes you ask? These fashionably fun flower hats are available from baby to tween. Each vary in price so it's best to check out the Jamie Rae Hats website.


I just love hats and the prettier the better. Hats can truly make and sometimes break an outfit but these totally rock! Do I recommend them? You betcha! Jamie Rae Hats gets my TWO TINY THUMBS UP!

Here are the ways you can follow and connect with Jamie Rae Hats:

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Pinterest
• Instagram

Disclosure: Growing Up Madison receives products in order to conduct reviews. No monetary compensation was provided unless noted otherwise. All opinions are 100% my own. Some posts may contain affiliate links that I receive commission for payment from in exchange for referrals. In the event of a giveaway, the sponsor is responsible for delivery of the prize, unless otherwise noted in the posting. Giveaways are not sponsored by Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+ or any other social media site. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I personally believe will be a good fit for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."