The 2024 Wishmas Guide... for Younglings!

 

Don't look now, but... it's time for the Younglings to get some love!

 Gaming 

Video Games: While there are other consoles... handhelds are still the way to go for kids who are usually on the go. Great for use on the telly (sure), but those trips to other locations like the Doctor's office, travel, and much more. These types of devices like the Nintendo Switch or the Valve Steam Deck... go a long way, for younglings, and... your nerves.

If your kid(s) doesn't have a system just yet... I can help you decide on which route to go.

Nintendo Switch is a system I recommend for ages 5+, especially for fans of Nintendo first party titles, because... you won't get them anywhere else beyond their platforms (legally).

Valve Steam Deck is a system I recommend for ages 13+, especially for PC gamers who already have a Steam library. This system will give access to newer games a lot longer because it isn't at risk of Valve pulling the plug on store access. It's a PC that gives you access to your game library on Steam just like a desktop... so it's a total win and gives you the option of connecting monitors + keyboard + mouse + speakers for the standard pc experience.

On that note, no matter which route you go... here are some games we recommend:

• Cat Quest 3 is the third installment in the award-winning Cat Quest series. This 2.5D open-world action RPG takes players on a swashbuckling adventure in a fantastical pirate-themed world known as the Purribean. Players control a purrivateer cat, exploring varied dungeons and biomes, engaging in fierce battles with a refined combat system, and sailing the seas in their very own ship. The game features solo and local co-op play, allowing players to embark on treasure hunts, purrsue bounties, and more! The Trilogy is also available.
  
  Grab it for Switch or Steam Deck/PC.
  

  
  

• LEGO Horizon Adventures is an action-adventure game set in a distant future where the land is made of LEGO bricks. Players join hunter Aloy as she battles to save Earth from an ancient digital demon and a gang of sunworshippers. The game features thrilling online and couch co-op action, allowing players to hunt machines and customize their home and characters. With stunning cinematic visuals and a mix of action, exploration, and customization, this game offers a unique and engaging experience for fans of both LEGO and Horizon.
  
  Grab it for Switch or Steam Deck/PC.
  

  
  

• Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope: Take your dream team on a galactic adventure with Mario + Rabbids. Unleash your heroes' skills but be strategic as you dash your enemies, team jump on your allies, and... take cover! This game was added because it's a highly rated budget friendly game for the Switch! $14.99!
  
  

• Yars Rising: On the Steam Deck side... I can't sleep on this side scrolling, charisma filled adventure with a cool cast of hackers. Run, jump, sneak, and hack your way to the... heart of the mystery as you infiltrate the QoTech Corporation. Emi will continue to powerup as your adventure progresses, by way of... challenging retro minigames (to hack the system). This one is for fans of 2D side scrolling, vibrant anime art, humor + story.
  

  
  
  
  
  
• Barbie Project Friendship: Girls game too, and while some play various types of games (duh of the day)... some are girly girls and enjoy games like BPF. You play as Malibu Barbie & Brooklyn Barbie working together with friends and family to complete challenges and quests to help the community by restoring the Malibu Waves Community Center. Fans of decorating, adventure, story, and mini games will enjoy this title.
  
  Grab it for Switch or Steam Deck/PC.
  
  
  
  

• Sonic X Shadow Generations: Strap on your kicks and dive into Sonic Generations... starring Sonic + Shadow! In this new standalone campaign for Shadow, Black Doom has reemerged and threatens to take over the world. Shadow must journey into his past, confront his memories, and unlock new dark powers to save the world. Harness those new Doom Powers to battle horse of enemies and tackle platforming challenges like never before. These abilities will give you the abilities to surf on water, stop time with Chaos Control, and fly over obstacles.
  
  Grab it for Switch or Steam Deck/PC.
  

  
  
  *Find more Switch & Steam Deck games here.
  
  
  

 Tech Gifts 

• 

  Yoto Audio Player: Is an all-in-one storytelling toy that includes audiobooks, a night light, a clock, and more. This made the list because some parents want to reduce screen time for their children, but wouldn't mind them having access to tech with a simple pixel display.
  
  - Music player
  - Bluetooth
  - Nightlight
  - Acoustically-Engineered Stereo Sound
  - Room Thermometer
  - Pixel Display
  - Audio Cards
  - Durable
  
  $79.99
  
  There is also a Yoto-Mini Player for $54.99, which allows your Younglings to take the device on the go. Outside of the custom audio cards you can make, there are 1000+ cards available for educational activities, music, audio books, soundscapes, etc.
  
  What's the benefit of this type of device? It gives your kids a safe STEM related option that also reduces screen time, while also working as a night light + white noise for bed time, clock, alarm clock and all that good stuff. These audio devices were created for ages 3 - 12+. Check out the Yoto Store for... more!

  
  
  

  

• 3Doodler Start+ Maker Bundle: This 3D printing pen gives your children an affordable way to create 3D creations. Consider the Scrib3D P1 Pen for teen crafters!
  

• VTech Kidi Star DJ Mixer: If your youngling loves music like mine, and you see them showcasing interests in possibly being a DJ... this is a badass device. Badass. You aren't just limited to the onboard options in terms of the music, you have the track sliders, tempo, custom keys, and you can also add your own music in. You can use vocals, line-in, bluetooth, and in addition to the DJ Party mode, you can record with the Studio function if they want to record a mix, but before they start on this path of DJing... they can start with Academy. It's recommend for 5+, but don't feel ashamed if you find yourself using it as well. This device comes in Black & Pink!
  
  

  
  
  
  

 Toys & Edutainment Gifts 

• Scholastic Phonics First Little Readers (24 Book Bundle): Perfect for early readers, focusing on specific phonics patterns.

• STEM Explorers Superhero Science: A budget-friendly STEM toy that introduces kids to science concepts.

• Smiless Kiddo Stem Tech Kit: A hands-on tech activity kit that teaches children how to use electronics by way of connecting them to each other to make things work. This kit has 420 projects for your children explore. This is as simple as connecting wires, the more they mix and match the parts... the more things happen when they flip those switches or turn dials. Huzzah!
  

• Minecraft Explorer Kit: I have to round out this section with this badass product from Make-A-Fort. You already know that some people just smile when they hear... "Minecraft", but imagine your kids unboxing this gift and being able to build like in one of their favorite games. You already know they go crazy over empty boxes, so imagine them diving into these:
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
• LEGO: LEGO is on the list without a doubt, because... it gives kids (and parents like myself) the opportunity to dive into creativity and practice those building skills. Playsets are cool, especially if they add to a theme we're going for... but the Classic Large Creative Brick Box gives more room to do more based on their imagination.
  
  See Black Friday toy deals... here.

  
  
  

 Outdoor Gifts 

• 
  Pedal Go Kart: Great for exercise by way of fun. The standard bikes are a classic and great for balance, but a pedal cart makes kids want to jump behind the wheel. The Honey Joy Go Kart's come in four colors, Red, Pink, Blue, and Green. If you have 2+ kids, just imagine the fun. You can grab two green karts for... $150. Honey Joy's Pedal GK2 is also available for $10 bucks more.

• Gardening Kit: This gardening kit gives your younglings the ability to decorate their own flower pots, and grow their own herbs for use in their favorite meals. Even if they don't plan on being a big gardener, it doesn't hurt to have a green thumb.

• Outdoor Explorer Kit: Includes tools for exploring nature, such as binoculars, a magnifying glass, and a compass. Other kits include tools to catch bugs. I would take this type of kit, give it to the younglings and let them roar off on their go karts in a designated area.

• Huge Tree Swing: If you have a big tree... invite a swing to the party, especially one of the huge rectangular options. These are great for multiple children to enjoy with it's 700lb capacity. You would have literally created a new hangout spot. Ensure your branch can handle that weight though. If it checks out, don't be surprised if you find yourself laying across the swing snoring the day away. This is year round fun, just... tell them not to stand on it because it would only be a matter of time before someone runs in the house trying to catch their breath because the wind got knocked out of them. #LortWhatHappenedNow!
  

  
  
  

 Gift an... Experience 

Swimming Lessons

• YMCA of Central Florida: Offers group and private swim lessons for all ages and skill levels.

• Red Cross Learn-to-Swim Program: Provides swimming lessons tailored to the needs of each child.

Basketball Lessons

• i9 Sports Youth Basketball Leagues: Fun and age-appropriate basketball leagues for kids.

• Local Community Centers: Many offer basketball programs and camps for children.

Karate Lessons

• Great Start Karate: Online martial arts program designed specifically for kids.

• Local Dojos: Many offer beginner karate classes for children.

Cool Experiences in your Town (here are some options in or near Orlando)

• Kennedy Space Center: An educational and fun experience where kids can learn about space exploration.

• WonderWorks Orlando: Over 100 hands-on science exhibits, laser tag, a ropes course, and a 6D motion ride.

• Tree Trek Adventure Park: An aerial obstacle course that takes kids far above the ground in a natural pine forest.

These gifts and experiences are sure to bring joy fun year round.

 Face Washing Regimen 

This is totally something a parent would appreciate more so than children, but... a face washing regimen with products that use natural ingredients is the gift that keeps on giving. A kid will go outside with the dog, touch everything + the dog, and... those hands end up on their faces. Gotta fight the dirt with a solid product:

• TBH Kid Cleanser: Gentle on the skin, helps restore the skin's natural barrier, balance, and retains moisture.

• Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser: Non-irritating and suitable for sensitive skin.

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School Break Is Here: Don't Stress... Deploy the Activities!

School break is here, and while some parents are stressing, we're like Drake courtside at an NBA game. We remember being younglings and getting that much needed break for fun, and we had a blast. While gaming played it's part in our activities, we can't forget about those other indoor and outdoor activities that kept us busy when we weren't... sleeping in. School breaks are a great time for kids to relax, have fun, and explore new activities. Here are some engaging and enjoyable activities for kids to do during their school break... when they aren't sleeping in (giving you an extended breather). When it comes to this list of suggested activities, may it also assist you in determining the best gifts for your younglings, and if you grab something... call it an early gift. Just FYI... this is NOT the official Wishmas list for Younglings!

Indoor Activities

1. Arts and Crafts: Encourage creativity with painting, drawing, or making DIY crafts. Projects like creating holiday decorations or making friendship bracelets can be both fun and rewarding.
   
   

2. Reading: Visit the local library or create a cozy reading nook at home. Choose a mix of fiction, non-fiction, and graphic novels to keep things interesting. (Ask the librarians if they have any available activities or calendar events as well.)

3. Cooking and Baking: Get kids involved in the kitchen by making simple recipes together. Baking cookies, pies, making homemade pizza, or preparing a family meal can be a fun and educational experience. Who knows, you could have a future chef on your hands. Amazon Fresh has plenty of deals right now. This is my shopping cart with over a weeks worth of food for about 2 people (including eggs 18 for $4.79):
   

   

4. Board Games and Puzzles: Spend quality time playing board games or working on puzzles. These activities can help develop problem-solving skills and encourage family bonding. Older children may appreciate the challenge of the 3D puzzles.
   

   
   R2-D2 Puzzle $6.79 for a limited time!

5. Science Experiments: Conduct simple science experiments at home. Projects like making a volcano, creating slime, or growing crystals can be both educational and entertaining.

6. Gaming: While this one of the activities we recommend, limiting game time would allow your children to have a well rounded schedule. Gaming could fall in place where you need it most if you're strategic.
   
   

Outdoor Activities

1. Nature Walks and Hikes: Explore local parks, nature trails, or beaches. Bring along a nature journal to document interesting plants, animals, and insects you encounter.

2. Sports and Games: Organize a game of soccer, basketball, or frisbee with friends and family. Outdoor sports are a great way to stay active and have fun.

3. Gardening: Start a small garden or plant flowers in the yard. Gardening can teach kids about responsibility and the importance of caring for the environment.
   

4. Lunch at the park: Pack up a delicious lunch and head to a nearby park. Enjoying a meal outdoors can be a refreshing change of pace and a great way to spend time together. Search for parks in your area, there may be some that you're unaware of.

5. Biking: Go for a bike ride around the neighborhood or on a designated bike trail. It's a fun way to explore and get some exercise.

6. Visit Family + Friends: Like many plan to do during this break, it doesn't hurt to visit family & friends for some fun. This doesn't cancel out the activities, but you can consider this a nice combo to dial up the fun.
   
   

Creative Activities

1. Music and Dance: Have a dance party at home or learn to play a musical instrument. Music and dance can be a great way to express creativity and burn off energy. Just Dance 2025 is on sale for $29.99.

2. Theater and Drama: Put on a play or skit with friends or family. Create costumes, write a script, and perform for an audience.

3. Photography: Give kids a camera or smartphone and let them explore photography. Encourage them to take pictures of interesting subjects and create a photo album or scrapbook.
   
   

Educational Activities

1. Visit Museums and Zoos: Take a trip to a local museum, zoo, or aquarium. These outings can be both fun and educational, providing opportunities to learn about history, science, and wildlife.

2. Online Learning: Explore educational websites and apps that offer interactive learning experiences like the PBS Kids app. Subjects like math, science, and language arts can be made fun with the right resources also. If you want your kids to learn more of a course that can seriously put them on the road for a career, here are some discounted courses from Udemy (for kids)!

3. DIY Projects: Work on DIY projects like building a birdhouse, creating a scrapbook, or making homemade gifts. These activities can teach valuable skills and provide a sense of accomplishment. The Dollar Tree has plenty of Arts & Crafts.
   

By incorporating a mix of indoor, outdoor, creative, and educational activities into the school break schedule with game time, kids can have a well-rounded and enjoyable school break. Here's a free... simple calendar template if needed (from 101 Planners): Image File or PDF File

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Captain Planet: The Complete Franchise... Reviewed!

This product was provided by Warner Bros. my opinions are my own.

Captain Planet: The Complete Franchise - A Nostalgic Journey with a Timeless Message

Time for a blast from the past with Captain Planet. If you aren’t familiar with the franchise, it revolves around the Planeteers, a group of five teenagers from different parts of the earth, handpicked by Gaia, aka Mother Earth, to come to the aid of the world that’s being destroyed by pollution. They aren’t going at it alone, because she equips each of them with different rings that represent elemental powers like earth, wind, water, fire, and heart to combat eco-villains.

The Planeteers and Their Mission

The Planeteers aren’t simply blasting enemies with rings; they face different challenges that requires them to think strategically as individuals and as a team. The rings certainly come into play when needed but they aren't the just blasting their way to solutions. When those challenges become too great, they combine their powers to summon Captain Planet, a hero created by Gaia based on the different elements. He doesn’t simply use all the powers the rings provide; he also has super strength and is basically indestructible like Superman, but his form of kryptonite is a direct attack with pollution. He even needs help from the Planeteers at times when pollution has him down for the count.

Considering the format and having to fit the show within a 30-minute segment, you do see and feel that the pacing of the show is sped up a bit in some areas to make sure that the show’s key points are represented (like the message presented to the audience at the end of each episode), but it doesn’t render the show unwatchable. You will notice a shift as we get deeper into the later seasons as well.

The Eco-Villains

Each episode reveals the dirty deeds of the eco-villains like Hoggish Greedly and the evil they’re dishing out on the planet. They also have to take on Looten Plunder, Verminous Skumm, and others like Dr. Blight, who is actually able to take on Captain Planet (but I'll leave it at that).

Visuals and Art Style

Visually, the show held up well, delivering a late 80s to mid-90s comic book-inspired art style for the animation. When you get into the New Adventures of Captain Planet, you will notice a change in the art style a tad, which is a bit more refined. The characters look similar, but you can tell there are some differences, and the Planeteers are older.

Why Parents Should Pick This Up for Their Family

This show is worth parents picking up for their children for more than a few reasons. It showcases teamwork, perseverance, the ability to do your part to impact the world no matter where you come from, your age, height, the ability to work together with others no matter where they come from, and the importance of doing good for the planet as well as in the world. Sadly, a number of people would hear this and call it fantasy, but the ability to contribute is a very real thing. Here's an example from my own life:

I was one of those kids who felt like what I contributed would make a difference, and it remains in me to this very day. We lived on a certain street in Fort Myers, Florida, at one point in my life that was pretty nice, but people would take trash and throw it on the ground when they passed through (I didn't get it). It was a road that ran between two major highways, and so people would utilize it often. I don’t know what it was, but when people saw trash, they saw justification to throw even more trash there. I didn’t care for it, and I grew up on Captain Planet, the Magic School Bus, and the elementary school that I went to was big on teaching recycling and promoting the preservation of nature because it’s good for the earth as well as humans and animals.

So with the approval of my mom (who didn't liter and was extremely supportive), I took trash bags and literally went up & down the entire street picking up trash until it was all bagged up. What happened after that was little to no trash being thrown on the ground on our street. Maybe they didn’t want to be the cause of the problem again, and our neighbors began taking better care of their yards. Maybe the energy rubbed off on them, and maybe it will inspire you too. By the way, there's an actual Captain Planet Foundation that I had no clue about. They work with kids to young adults up to 23 years of age in different capacities for each group (elementary, middle school, high school and beyond).

One thing I don’t care for is the New Adventures of Captain Planet’s intro theme music. I don’t know who heard that and thought it would really turn someone’s head, but someone lied to them in my opinion because it sounds bad.

Pricewise, you can get Captain Planet: The Complete Franchise for $99.99 SRP, which isn't bad for 15 DVDs packed with 6 seasons that serve up 113 episodes of over 43 hours of wholesome action. At the same time, we have to give you the hook up for $69.96! 

Overall, Captain Planet: The Complete Franchise is a nostalgic journey that still holds valuable lessons for today’s generation. It’s a solid 4 out of 5 stars.

Story 4

Visuals 5

Audio 3

Price 5

4.25 out of 5 Cool Points

 + Sophi 

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