BGG’s Back-to-School Checklist: Get An A+ in Eye Care

It’s hard to believe that my baby girl, Ava, will be starting preschool in a few short weeks.

Like many moms, there are plenty of errands that I need to do in preparation for her big day. From shopping for school supplies to updating her wardrobe, my checklist seems to be endless. While those tasks are priorities, scheduling an appointment with her eye doctor tops the list.

Last month, I attended an event hosted by The Eye Solution/Kids Vision for Life where I learned more about the importance of good eye health. We all know that children need to visit their pediatricians annually, but oftentimes we parents forget to get our little one’s eyes checked out too. Oh, and those quick “eye exams” during routine physicals don’t count.

eye-event

During the event, I spoke with several experts and learned that this oversight (no pun intended) can lead to mislabeling in school, which can ultimately have avoidable negative effects on students.

For example, a child may not be able to see the blackboard/whiteboard in class and will subsequently say the wrong answer simply because he’s suffering from vision problems. Initially, teachers or parents may conclude that the child is having academic challenges when in fact all he needs is a pair of glasses.

Being an ’80’s baby who grew up watching the popular ’90’s TV show, “Beverly Hills, 90210,” I was pleased to know that actress Jennie Garth, is teaming up with The Eye Solution to launch the “Get An A+ in Eye Care” campaign, a program that inspires people to help provide good eye health and vision correction for children (ages 5-12) in need across the U.S. The campaign is simple: see good, share good, and make good happen.

Plus, there’s a social media component that encourages people to “like” The Eye Solution on Facebook to help give back.” For every “like” on The Eye Solution Facebook page, (Alcon) will donate $1 up to $50,000 to help fund more than 1000 eye exams and eyeglasses for underserved children across the country.

Remember, our children’s vision health is incredibly important to their overall well-being and academic success. Don’t forget to make time for them to see an eye doctor annually after the age of 3.

Check out these Eye-Opening Facts from Kids Vision For Life:

  • *1 out of 4 children in the U.S has a vision problem significant enough to affect learning
  • *80% of learning in a child’s first 12 years comes through his eyes
  • *25% of all school children in the U.S have a vision problem significant enough to affect learning
  • *90% of children who need glasses do not have them
  • *44% of parents are not aware that behavioral problems can be an indication that a child’s vision is impaired

 **GIVEAWAY**In celebration of Back-to-School season, I’m giving away a gift bag filled with eye care goodies for the whole family. Simply leave a comment below and a winner will be randomly selected and announced next Monday, August 18th. This giveaway is open to U.S residents only. 

If you have a school-aged child at home, do you schedule annual eye exams for him/her?

Product Review: CurlyKids Hair Care Line

We are witnessing a natural hair revolution.

For the first time in decades, we BGs are embracing and proudly flaunting our natural hair textures in droves. But, the best part of this newfound self-acceptance is that we are teaching our children to love their kinks, coils and curls too!

Thanks to brands like CurlyKids, a hair care line that caters to kids’ curly-haired needs, moms like me can comb and style our little one’s hair with confidence.

For the past six months, I’ve been consistently using CurlyKids products on my daughter’s hair. Created to treat a multitude of curly hair textures, especially those with excessive dryness and breakage, the line includes: shampoo, conditioner, gel, control paste, curl defining lotion and detangling sprays.

Curly-KidsCurlyKids Hair Care available here, $5 each

Usually, I tend to use a variety of product brands to achieve a desired effect or style. But, this time I wanted to see how the entire line worked together. And, I’m glad I did.

ava-hair-washAva getting her hair washed using CurlyKids Shampoo & Conditioner.

From the sulfate-free shampoo to the frizz-taming control paste, I’ve been pleased with how well the products complement each other. Since she has super dry, easy-to-tangle hair, I have to use products that will properly moisturize without leaving behind a greasy or sticky residue. Luckily, CurlyKids gets the job done.

ava-top-knotAva sporting her signature topknot using CurlyKids Curly Gel Moisturizer.

Out of the line, the Curly Gel Moisturizer and the Super Detangling Spray are my two faves. The gel is fragrance free and doesn’t create that unsightly flakey crust that we all dread. Plus, it adds moisture while taming her curly fly-aways. The Super Detangling Spray makes manageability a breeze because it unsnarls her strands effortlessly.

ava-curly-pigtailsI achieved this pigtail look by using CurlyKids Control Paste, Gel Moisturizer and Detangling Spray.

Although the brand’s site says it’s for “mixed hair,” my daughter is 100% African-American so it’s safe to say that it’s suitable for ALL curly hair types. Oh and to top it off, all of their products are only $5!

If your little one is in need of some TLC for her tresses, definitely check out CurlyKids!

What products do you use to keep your kids’ hair looking good?

Must See TV (Kids): Sprout Channel to Launch Original Animated Series ‘Astroblast!’

Being a parent of two children under the age of 5, I’m pretty familiar with Sprout. If you’re not, it’s a 24-hour cable TV channel that caters to the toddler and preschool set.

This Saturday, July 12th, the 9 year old NBC-owned network is premiering its original animated series, “Astroblast!”

astroblast-sproutAstroblast!” premieres Saturday, July 12 at 1pm & 8pm EST on Sprout. The series will continue airing daily during “The Sunny Side Up Show” and “The Good Night Show.”

Co-produced by the children’s book publishing powerhouse, Scholastic Media, “Astroblast!” aims to entertain while educating kids. With a cast of animal characters, the series imparts important messages about how to embrace differences, model positive relationships and foster healthy eating habits all while taking viewers on exciting adventures in outer space.

My daughter has been anticipating the launch of the space-themed show for weeks. That’s why I was beyond thrilled when we were invited to attend a sneak peek of the series at the super cute restaurant, The Sugar Factory here in New York.

I was happy that Ava would get to see some of the show before its debut and I was excited to finally visit The Sugar Factory. For those who are familiar with my blog know that I am candy obsessed; so a trip to the sweets-centric hotspot was like a little slice of heaven for me.

astroblast-2

We watched a snippet of the show as we noshed on fried mac-n-cheese balls, mini burgers, chicken fingers, french fries and other yummy kid-friendly fare. Plus, there were fruit smoothies specially made as a nod to one of the ongoing themes of the show. And, of course there were sweet treats galore. From an ice cream sundae bar with every topping imaginable to chocolate fondue to unlimited candies of all kinds, The Sugar Factory definitely lived up to its name.

If your kids are into fun-loving space creatures, “Astroblast!” is a must-see. Oh, and if you’re looking for a restaurant to take your kids on a weekend afternoon or maybe a sweet date night with your guy, The Sugar Factory is a great choice.

In addition, to celebrate the series’ launch, there will be “Astroblast! Space Camp Tour.” Free and open to the public, the tour will offer kids and families the opportunity to participate in an exciting interactive space experience complete with activities and games in the spirit of the series.

Here are the remaining tour dates:

  • Denver, CO on Saturday, July 12
  • Phoenix, AZ on Saturday, July 19
  • Los Angeles, CA on Saturday, July 26 and Sunday, July 27
  • San Diego, CA on Saturday, August 2

For more information visit: www.sproutonline.com.

Don’t forget to tune in Saturday. We’ll be watching!

Do your children watch the Sprout network? What was your favorite cartoon growing up?

Review: Evenflo Classic Glass Feeding Bottle Featuring Proflow

I must admit, I hardly use bottles to feed my 6 1/2 month-old-son.

Yep, I’m one of those moms who breastfeeds on demand all day, everyday. It’s easy for me and my son loves the comfort and nourishment that it provides. However, when my outfit or a particular public location or outing isn’t conducive to breastfeeding, Evenflo’s new bottle line with Proflow vented nipples has been my substitute.

Evenflo-Feeding-Bottle

Evenflo Classic + Vented Bottles with Proflow Vented Nipples (trio of 8 oz) available exclusively at Babies R Us, $9.99

I prefer the classic glass option because it cuts down on germs and mold that can creep in with plastic ones. Plus, with the Proflow innovation, the vented nipples direct those dreaded air bubbles straight into the bottle instead of my son’s stomach, reducing gassy fussiness.

Being a second-time mom, I’ve never found a bottle and nipple that my children actually like as much as the “real thing.” My firstborn used bottles a lot more frequently than my son, so I’ve tried a wide variety. The classic glass ProFlow doesn’t leak either, which is a true bonus. And, since we moms are always short on time, the one-piece nipple eliminates extra dish duty.

If you’re on the hunt for a good glass bottle, give the new Evenflo ones with Proflow nipples  a go!

Do you prefer glass or plastic bottles?

Brown Baby ‘Boy’ Gumbo Is Here!

If you’ve been wondering why I haven’t updated my blog in over a week, it’s been for a very good reason—the birth of my son!

Ava now has a baby brother who will surely become her partner in crime. Since he came into the world 10 days ago, I’ve already had my fair share of emotional mommy meltdowns and unwarranted anxiety, but those feelings pale in comparison to the love and adoration I have for my baby boy!

For the next few weeks, my posts will probably be sporadic since I’m still navigating the world of mommy-hood part two!

Here’s a pick of my pride and joy:

Baby-MP

 

GIVEAWAY: Grace Hightower De Niro & Coffee of Rwanda Gift Set

In case you didn’t know, today is National Coffee Day!

Although I’m not a ‘cup of joe’ drinker, Grace Hightower De Niro is making me reconsider. Wife of the legendary actor, Robert De Niro, Grace is the woman behind the newly launched Grace Hightower De Niro & Coffee of Rwanda.

Inspired by the spirit of Rwandans, De Niro decided to create this line of fair trade coffees to celebrate, support and give back to the coffee farmers and citizens of the African country. Through direct sourcing, ethical practices and environmental stewardship, her commitment to the betterment of the hardworking farmers and their surrounding communities allows them to create a sustainable business that can be passed from one generation to the next.

Through Grace’s dedication, she helps make it possible for their products to be enjoyed and shared with people from all over the world. Available in four unique blends ranging from citrusy medium light roasts to deep espresso roasts, Coffees of Rwanda will surely satisfy the cravings of any coffee consumer!

Coffees-Rwanda

Grace Hightower & Coffees of Rwanda available here and at specialty stores including Whole Foods, $12.50 each

As a celebration of her journey to Rwanda, check out this video titled, “LOVE!”

**GIVEAWAY: One lucky reader will win a Coffees of Rwanda gift set, a $25 value! Simply leave a comment sharing your favorite coffee flavor! The winner will be randomly selected and announced on Monday, Sept. 30.

Also, in honor of National Coffee Day, Grace Hightower & Coffees of Rwanda will have a GH&COR food truck driving around NYC giving out free coffee on Friday, September 27th and Saturday, September 28th from 8 AM to 5 PM! Be sure to follow @coffeeofgrace  on Twitter and on Facebook.com/CoffeeOfGrace for updates, etc.

3 Sunscreen Tips That You Need to Know Now

If you’re still planning that summer getaway, don’t leave home without a few sun protection essentials from my friends at Aveeno.

Since becoming an Aveeno Brand Ambassador, I’ve tested and tried several options from the skincare brand. When my daughter was a baby I used, Baby Natural Protection Face Stick w/Broad Spectrum 50 SPF, which was super easy to apply and worked marvelously. My husband and I currently use the new Protect + Hydrate Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30.  I’m a stickler for smelly sunscreens and this one is nearly fragrance-free, which is a major plus.

Aveeno-Active-Naturals-Protect-Hydrate-SPF30-LotionAveeno Active Naturals Protect + Hydrate SPF 30 Lotion available here, $10.99

Also, with skin cancers on the rise, we need to make sure that we take the proper precautions to prevent the deadly disease. Dermatologist Dr. Jeanine Downie shared three highly-overlooked skincare tips that we all need to know while having fun in the sun:

1. Remember to use sunscreen on ears, posterier neck, and the tops of feet because they are the most overlooked places for sun protection.

2. Use a hypoallergenic, non-comedegenic sunscreen underneath your eyes consistently and do not rub your eyes. This alone will decrease dark circles.

3. Don’t forget your scalp! “I am seeing more scalp skin cancers, many of which can be avoided. Protect your scalp from the sun by applying a spray sunscreen like Aveeno’s Hydrosport Wet Skin Spray Sunscreen w/Broad Spectrum 30 to your hair, on your part.

Do you apply sunscreen everyday?