Updated with giveaway: Ambi Climate 2nd edition – my little home personal assistant !

Many people find me odd that I don’t really use air-conditioner (AC) when I sleep especially in our hot and humid tropical climate. Of course, there are nights when they are so unbearable I do switch on the AC for my rooms before I going to bed. The biggest reason why I don’t fancy using AC is that I often wake up in the middle of the night feeling very cold even though at the point of sleeping, the AC temperature was set to a nice temperature. Typically, I would be awoken at night as I feel so cold at night, then I need to switch off the AC and switch on my fan for the rest of the night. So for not so hot night, I prefer to sleep with solely the fan so that I won’t get interrupted at night due to “freezing” temperature.

When I came to know of Ambi Climate ,a device so smart, uses machine learning and smart sensors to adjust the AC’s temperature to my comfort preference while I am sleeping, I become curious. I hope that I may able to sleep peacefully throughout the night without being awaken by cold and freezing temperature ever again.

Unboxing it 

When the package came, I was amazed that it is actually a very tiny device  – just a palm size. For me , I just placed it next to my bedside as it needed a power point and it is in line sight of the AC. It is just an inconspicuous little device but little did i know the benefit I can gain from it will be immense – the first of its kind in the world – an AI enabled smart AC controller. It has a sleek minimalistic Danish design which would fit any home decor easily.

At first use, 

The setup was a breeze, with just an initial one time pairing. Download the  Ambi Climate app (available on app store and play store) in your phone and pair Ambi Climate with the AC within minutes, you will be synced to Ambi Climate!  It was just less than a 5 minute setup for a tech noob like me. Even if you can’t find the model of  AC in the drop down list, you can simply ask the app to search and pair.( I actually didn’t check the model before hand as I was confident it would work) It works with almost every brand and model of AC, the whole list is found here. Generally, the rule of thumb would be that your remote control must come with an LCD screen, when in doubt do check with the good folks at Ambi Climate before purchasing to be very sure.

There is only one LED button, once it is in green, it is all set to be your little personal assistant!

this is a simple instruction that came in the box ..i dont think it can get any easier than this!

The key for the first 2 weeks is to constantly give feedback to Ambi Climate so that the device “learn” what is your preference level of temperature of comfort. This is what Machine Learning is all about – teaching a machine to learn from data provided and adapt its program to mirror what it learns – which basically means Artificial Intelligence. The device analyses how temperature, humidity, sunlight , weather and time of the day affect the overall thermal comfort. With on-board sensors and external data (local weather via an internet based service), and combining with my own feedback, Ambi Climate is able the adjust the AC to my comfort. My husband ask what temperature did i set it to, I don’t really know, all I did was to let Ambi Climate know whether it was a bit cold, too warm or comfy.

 

Loving it

Do you know that you can actually switch on your AC before reaching home using the app? Especially when you have sleeping kids in the car and you got to have the most successful transition from the air-conditioned comfort of the car to home ! Ambi Climate does just that! Ain’t my home become a little smarter , all thanks to Ambi Climate. With the use of geo-location, the AC intelligently turn itself on when I reach a certain distance from my home.

The biggest benefit in having the ability to predict your comfort level, it means setting the AC at the correct temperature thus conserving energy and saving electricity (means saving money on your bills).  As you can see, the many adjustments made throughout my sleep.

The 2nd edition comes with 4 mode – Comfort, Away, Temperature and Manual.

Comfort mode which is the main reason why Ambi Climate is so smart  -it allows Ambi Climate to take control over the AC of coz this is the mode that you should be using most of the time. Temperature mode focuses on your own selected temperature and the AI adjust all other elements to meet that temperature. Manual mode  simply mean replace AC remote to using the Ambi Climate app on your phone – just the typical function of the AC remote. Away mode is for user who work long hours or travel a lot hence they are able to make use of Ambi Climate to maintain the level of heat/cold/humidity of the room/home. Away Mode will make sure your plants, pets and clothes are protected from unwanted moisture and extreme temperature .Once you have set the Away mode, Ambi Climate will only turn on your AC when the thresholds are met, and only for long enough to bring conditions back to “acceptable” levels.

There is also a timer function where you can configure the timing when you need a particular mode to be switch on or off. You can set the temperature when you wake up too as well.

I also constantly getting email updates from Ambi Climate of simple tips and reminders how to use Ambi Climate to make my home smarter and my life better.

I guess the biggest benefit from having Ambi Climate is my uninterrupted sleep, I am having the most comfortable sleep in recent weeks with the AC switch on. However, nothing beats knowing that there will be savings in my electricity bills. If there is anything I can critic which is not really Ambi Climate’s fault per say, due to the constant adjustments to temperature to the AC, I constantly hear the AC beeping sound whenever the AC temperature is adjusted automatically. As you can see, there are many adjustments made throughout the night to the AC temperature to ensure that I will be in my most comfortable temperature when sleeping. I will have both my AC switch on from now on – the air-conditioner and Ambi Climate!

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Ambi Climate 2nd edition is retailing at SGD 199 and you find the local retailers in this link

Giveaway

The giveaway is being administered by the folks at Ambi Climate.

Do participate in the short survey and you may be the lucky one to Ambi Climate which has been helping me have uninterrupted sleep.

Giveaway ends August 13th, 2018 at 11:59 pm (GMT +8). One entry per person. Duplicate entries will be disqualified. Entries on behalf of another person and joint submissions will not be accepted.

Disclosure: I received the Ambi Climate for the purposes of my review. No monetary compensation was received. All opinions are my own.


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Review : Shangri-la Hotel Singapore- Deluxe Family Room and sneak peek into the themed family suites(part 1 of 2)

Warning ahead- overload of photos/videos throughout the post and the next, I won’t blame you if you skipped all words and dived right into the photos as no words can describe our most memorable staycation to date!

Truth to be told, this was not our first stay at a Shangri-la property. Last year, we visited Shangri-la Rasa Ria in Kota Kinabalu and had the most amazing overseas stay – luxurious, comfortable and unforgettable , sometimes we don’t really need to travel too far flung  and exotic to have one for the most amazing holidays – the key is in the hotel that we choose to stay in.

We decided to splurge a little (given that RM was weaker) so we went for THE BEST room in Shangri-la Rasa Ria –  I shall not elaborate too much on that stay as I know all are anxious to read about our Shangri-la Hotel Singapore experience but I will leave you with one picture and to say that the standards have been set high up there going into our staycation with Shangri-la Hotel Singapore.

Shangri-la Hotel, Singapore has recently renovated some of their rooms and a huge space (covered in part 2 of my post) to be the premier staycation hotel for families!

Typically, even from my own circle of friends , they tend to choose Shangri-la Rasa Sayang at Sentosa over the one at Orchard (as before the renovation), the sister property in Sentosa is perceived to be more family friendly with a play gym and a beach and but with renovation, Shangri-la Hotel Singapore has upped the game to be the ultimate choose for family staycation in Singapore

Just a quick tour of our deluxe inter-connecting family rooms on the newly rejuvenated family floor located in Tower Wing. The ninth floor of the Tower wing is dedicated to family travellers with 19 deluxe family room and 5 themed family suites. Each of the deluxe family room is able to accomodate families with two adults and two children below 12 years old.

twin beds configurations for the kids’ room

window alcove which be a play area or kid’s day bed too! 

for the parents, though it got invaded pretty quickly by the kids

  1. The most attention to details – especially for the little guests

even kids’ bathroom slippers come in 2 sizes

kids’ toiletries

sweet treats for the kids

swim bathrobes and souvenir bears

more sweet treats

in the plushy kids robe

2. Pantry and all things you need if you have a babies or a toddler!

Located on same floor as the deluxe family rooms and theme family suits,  this floor feature a very special rooms for families with young babies and toddler – a shared pantry with washing machine, dryer, iron, induction heater, microwave, and hot/cold filtered water dispenser provided.

And these is the list of amenities you can borrow at no additional cost from the family concierge service during your stay :-

3. The best breakfast buffet spread

4. A beautiful pool in the middle of lush greenery (I didn’tfeel 1 second that we are in Orchard Road)

Orchard Road is never my choice for a family staycation. Being in Shangri-la Hotel Singapore for 24 hours, I never once felt that I was in Orchard, with an area of 40,500 sq meter of lush gardens and a very beautiful free-from swimming pool in the middle of it all!

4. The service are 5-star

One of the biggest distinctions between a 5-star hotel vs the rest is the attentiveness and service level. The staff are always ready to give a helping hand and remember even the smallest details. There is a dedicated family concierge service for the guests on the family floor who will attend to all your needs and most importantly the little ones especially if you need anything from the pantry.

many thanks to Iris for remembering the cake for the birthday boy!

5. Buds by Shangri-la

Well, actually, this should be the first reason why any family should choose Shangri-la Hotel Singapore and not the fifth reason, but I had this as the very last reason as I will have an entire blog dedicated to this out-of-the-world play area that you will never has seen in any hotel in the world. If I were to cover Buds by Shangri-la in this blog, it will go on and on, so I decided to do a part 2 of this review especially dedicated to an awesome play areas. W

Finally, saving the best for last , a look at the highly raved and popular themed family suites– on the same floor as the family deluxe rooms (Tower Wing) that we stayed in. There are only 5 of such suites, each for one theme.

For those who can afford to splurge a bit ( I don’t really think it is a splurge as the themed family suites are the size of 2 deluxe inter-connecting family rooms) , for a once-in-a-lifetime experience and for very very special occasion, there is always the themed family suites. Just 5 of them – each a different theme -from Safari, Treetop, Castle, Underwater and Space. I had a privilege to peep into the Space themed family suites and it is a really really special room from the view of an adult…what more if it was from a kid…every kid will be jumping in joy to be able to sleep ( I don’t think any kids will be sleep in this room) and play in such a room.

 

space theme

For now, I will leave you with a short tour around the space themed family suite while I work on part 2 of  our amazing staycation!

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post.  No monetary compensation was received. All opinions are my own


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Giveaway: A balance bike and a 2-wheel bicycle in 1 – Kinderbike Morph Hybrid

I am ashamed to admit that I only cycling on 2-wheel bicycle when I was around 12 years old. To me , cycling is in the same league as swimming, my kids need to how to know how to cycle and swim from childhood. My two older kids learned cycle the old school way – like  how I started,y which is using 4 wheelers.  My husband did all the coaching from removing of the wheels into a 3 wheelers and with a few evening coaching both of my older kids learned to cycle on 2 wheels before they turn 7. Now I am a bit greedy, I am sure they can learn to cycle even earlier than 7 years old. So now is getting the younger two boys age 3 and 5 years will try to learn how to balance on balance trainer and then directly to 2-wheel bicycle.

I have known of the method of using balance bike as an early introduction to balancing and cycling. I do have a free balance bike (milk powder redemption) however it was bulky and none of the kids took any interest in it. S0 I kept it in hope that one of the younger kids would pick it up and learn balancing. But I do recognise that it is bulkier and very plasticky, the reason for why it is now collecting dust in my storage. I dropped the idea of using a balance bike as a way to learn cycle due to an inappropriate balance trainer.

What make me wanna try Kinder Bike Morph Hybrid is its ability to be both a balance trainer and a 2-wheel bicycle (hence, in case the kids doesn’t like to stride and balance, the bicycle is not another white elephant).

These are many reasons why I really like about Kinder Bike Morph Hybrid :-

1.Convertible ie that’s why it is called Morph

THE selling point for me is the ability to convert from  a balance trainer to a fully operational bicycle. So even if the child does to use it as a run bike, you can still use this as a normal operational bicycle provided he can cycle (ie learn through old school method).

And it is also very easy to convert, even my 7 year-old is able to convert it easily (I only help to tighten the screws)

You can also see the video of  big C’s doing the conversion in my IG post 

2. Easy to assemble

With an allen key and a few steps, the bicycle can be setup easily. Just connect the handle bar and the back wheel portion to the main body part, and you are off …don’t forget to pump the tires too!

 

 

these are pneumatic tyres so remember to inflate before riding

3. Made fully of aluminium, with NO plastic parts

My old white elephant balance bike was a 100% plastic bike. It really felt like a bulky piece of toy, I guess it neither a balance bike nor a toy. However, the Kinder Bike Morph Hybrid feels like a real bicycle and not a toy bicycle for my younger boys.

4. Grows with your child – the seat is adjustable and hence it is suitable for kids from 3 to 6 years old

The wheel are at 12″ , a tad too small for my 7 year old but perfect for small J at almost 5 years old. I really hope he can learn to cycle quickly before he outgrow them and he can pass it to small C to stride or cycle. The maximum weight limit is at 34kg. Even the handle bars are adjustable, which allow you to raise them as the rider grows taller and move them forward to back for a custom fit for your child.

This is my 3-year-old at the its lowest configuration.

Small J’s at almost 5 year old

This is my 7-year-old at the highest configuration.

5. Lightest pedal 12″ bike in the market at 3.9 kg

Given it is an aluminum bicycle , it is definitely heavier than other balance bike with plastic parts etc, however it is still one of the lightest in the market given that it is a conventional bicycle when converted.

6. Coaster brakes

You must be wondering why there are no hand brakes on the handle bar. This model uses coaster brake which is a a brake on the hub of rear wheel. The braking is applied by rotating the pedals in reverse until the brake engages. This is not a similar concept to most bicycles including our adult bicycles hence, it does need some time of getting used tol

Kinderbike Morph Hybrid comes in 4 different colours-  red, blue, green, violet.


Accessories included: Bell, reflector, coaster brakes, drive train (plug-N-play) pedal kit.

Now lets see if my younger boys are loving their new ride

As a run bike , this is small J’s first time trying and he do not fully understand how to use it as a run bike , but my bigger kids as they are able to cycle on 2-wheel, they get the balancing concept in an instant.

As a conventional 2-wheel bicycle, I had my girl demonstrate the conventional cycling using the same bike. Obviously, it will take sometime before the younger boys can do this but I hope it sooner than later by starting on a balance bike.

Kinder Bike also have different models for younger kids  and even older kids, see their listing here You can also buy helmets from them as you must have a helmet for your kids every time they ride.

Tikes and Bikes

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Giveaway 

Tikes and Bikes  has kindly sponsored a beautiful red Kinderbike Morph Hybrid worth SGD 239.99 (the exact same model as mine but in red)

1. Liked FB pages of mypreciouzkids.com and Kinderbike Singapore

2. Followed mypreciouzkids  on Instagram

3. Liked and share this FB post and tag 5 friends on the FB post and repost this IG post using #mypreciouzkidsgiveaway and tag 5 friends in the same IG post (1 tag per comment).

Please keep your Facebook shared post and IG shared post public (as indicated in step 3)  in order to qualify so that I can locate your entry.

I will be picking the 1 lucky winner . The giveaway closes on 13th May (Sun) 11.59pm.

For those who don’t want to wait for the results, and would like your kids to try this bicycle, I have a good offer especially for my readers:-

The first 5 readers to email at tikesnbikes@gmail.com to express interest in the Morph will be entitled to purchase bike for a low $99

Showroom add: 2 Jurong East St 21 #04-66 IMM Bldg
Open to public: Sat  130-6pm (alternate Sat of the month)
tel: 84966880
Winner: Shawn Quek
Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post.  No monetary compensation was received. All opinions are my own

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Marshall Cavendish’s Mini Science Encyclopedia (7th edition) – perfect for introducing science to young readers

I remembered when I was young , my parents brought me a whole set of Britannica encyclopedia. It look really lovely on my  book shelf however, it is also very intimidating, full of small font text, no colour…so I hardly ever browse them and the 30-year-plus set still sits in my parents’ home till this very day.

Even the word “encyclopedia” itself is an intimidating word for any young kids. Thus far I have not gotten the older kids any encyclopedia to accompany their learning journey.

I was most happy when Marshall Cavendish approached me to review their very own version of Mini Science Encyclopedia. I have not known of this mini encyclopedia before but being one focusing on science, this definitely a welcome addition to my kids’ library . The book is SO different from my pre-conception of an encyclopedia, big font sizes, colour pictures and illustrations…..definitely not intimidating at all. Targeted at primary school children, I reckon you can even start your K2s on some of the simpler science concepts as well.

These are the reasons I give this mini encyclopedia a big thumbs up!

  1. Well-rounded content

As this mini encyclopedia focuses on science, this book covers a variety of topics from our body,animals plants, ecology, environment, space, magnets, heat, electricity, energy, life sciences and many more.

Being a primary school kid’s parents, I did a quick look if I would rely on this book for primary science revision. Do note that this book does not follow the PSLE science syllable strictly, hence for revision purposes you would still need to use the textbook and accompany assessment books. However, this is a very good base to introduce new topics and science concepts!

2. Written in a local context

The book is written by a local author. Being in its 7th edition, it was first publised in 1998 and have been constantly updated.Many of the facts in foreign published encyclopedia are very general and do not mentioned on things we see in this part of the world ie Singapore.

This books covered the topics from a very local context perspective such as introduction to saga seed, rambutan, durian, chiku, duku and even the Semakau landfill which makes the book relatable to kids in Singapore.

3. Big fonts and colour pictures/illustration

One of the best ways to attract young readers is using big fonts and also colourful pictures and illustrations. This book is the less intimidating as my p1 girl took an interest in reading the book and having a introduction to science concepts around her. I have taken some shots of the simpler concepts and the beautiful illustration for the lower primary school kids. This book will also appeal for readers who prepare non fiction materials – animals, solar systems, dinosaurs!

 

4. Peppered with simple science experiments you can try at home

One of the best ways to encourage to love for science is to dabble in them. The book has included simple science experiments you can try at home with your child.

This is a very suitable mini encyclopedia for your lower primary school kids for leisure reading and brief intro to new science concepts. As mentioned previously,  this is not a primary school science text book (does not followed school syllable( but a mini encyclopedia to accompany the young minds …I am very sure this is more useful that having a full set of Britanica Encyclopedia.

You can purchase this mini encyclopedia priced at $20.50 (before GST) available in major bookshops such as Popular, Times and Kinokuniya or from online .

Giveaway

Marshall Cavendish has kindly sponsored a copy to a lucky reader. The winner will be required to pick up the copy from their office during office hours.

1. Liked FB pages of mypreciouzkids.com and Marshall Cavendish Education

2. Followed mypreciouzkids  and  Marshall Cavendish Education on Instagram

3. Liked and share this FB post and repost this IG post using #mypreciouzkidsgiveaway and tag 3 friends in the same IG post (1 tag per comment) on the same IG post.

Please keep your Facebook shared post and IG shared post public (as indicated in step 3)  in order to qualify so that I can locate your entry.

I will be picking the 1 lucky winner . The giveaway closes on 29th April April (Sun) 11.59pm.

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post.  No monetary compensation was received. All opinions are my own


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Bromin Tech/Lite – Probably the lightest ergonomic school bag in Singapore!

I was on the lookout for a lighter ergonomic school bag. If you want ergonomic feature in the school bag, the lightest I have seen  is also weighing at 900g plus. Some ergonomic school bag goes up to 1.2kg without book too! So I am very mindful of the weight of an ergonomic school bag, and daddy is not too keen on ergonomic schoolbag due to the “heavier” weight! He is quite happy to get a light and non ergonomic school bag but I have always insisted that the kids should carry ergonomic school bags and I have tried to source for the lightest one possible. Currently the kids are using ergonomic school bags at 900g. Bromin Emporter seems to have heard me by introducing probably the lightest ergonomic school bag in Singapore.

A bit about Bromin, it is a Singapore-based bag maker and importer founded by Gabriel Tay, who is a father himself ie like a parent like me who recognises two facts  – ergonomic bags are heavier and more expensive. Recognising this opportunity and being in the same industry, he has managed to design and manufacture 2 models (pink and blue) to  fill up this gap in the market –  an ergonomic school bag under 0.7kg and priced under SGD 90 (introductory prices) and the best part it has lifetime warranty !

With big J in mind, I had received both models – Tech and Lite to compare and contrast, however, I will be keeping 1 model for big J and the other bag (brand new, used for photography purposes for this review) will be given to one lucky read. Do note that my preference may not be your/your child’s preference.

Bromin Lite (Introductory price SGD 88)

Both models sport very similar back support with plush cushion with waist and chest strap to balance the weight of the bag on its carrier. So in this aspect both models are pretty similar! Its odd that I show the back of the bag instead of the front first because to me this is the most important part of  an ergonomic bag –  its back support!

I would say the Bromin Lite has a more sporty and stylish feel  with the flip top cover and a G-Hook. It has a drawstring opening which opens wide to see all its content.

i liked that Bromin Lite opens up and stay that way to see all its content in a glance!

The front compartment extends inward into the bag so you wont have a “budging” front compartment when your kid stuff all his knick knack in the front compartment.

Measuring at 38cm high, 25cm wide and 21cm, it fits comfortable on my 1.25cm 8 year old and it weigh at a mere 665 g only!

The Lite model has 4 knobs at the bottom -this feature is not found in the Tech model.

Two good size side pockets for water bottle – similar in both models

Bromin Tech (Introductory price S$68)

This model sports similar great back support with plush cushion, waist and chest strap just like Lite model, and 2 side pockets! I would say this model look more like typical school bag and open using a zipper as compared to a drawstring opening in the Lite model.

For the Lite model, you see everything from the top while the Tech model it opens up to the front.  The bag sits upright even when the main compartment is open.

The front compartment is not as roomy as Lite as it does not extend inwards but it does have extra pocket compartments in it with a key holder.

Measuring at 38cm high, 30cm wide and 18 cm deep (slight wider but less deep) and 10g heavier (so negligible!) at 675 g and it fits big J well too!

Side by side comparison

For those who are undecided which model  ( I had a hard time selecting which suits J more), I have more side by side comparison for your decision making.

Its a pretty hard choice and it also very much depend on its user which method of opening he/she prefers – zipper or drawstring!  But from a price point perspective, Bromin Tech seems to be a more economical model at SGD 20 cheaper and have almost similar dimensions and weight! Personally, I prefer a zipper opening to a drawstring version, hence I chose the Tech model for big J which means I will be giving out Bromin Lite to 1 lucky reader – giveaway steps at the end of the blog!

Lifetime warranty

The warranty protect against any manufacturing and material defects. However, it does not cover for any wear and tear from usage. Following the steps in the hang tag, do remember to register your warranty upon receiving the bag to ensure validity of your warranty.

For a limited time only, pre-order the bags online to enjoy $20 off retail price and delivery will be made in November at www.brominemporter.com/kids

You can also check out the bags at all Tom & Stefanie outlets from next week onwards (13 Nov) to let your kids try on the ergonomic bags themselves or order online for free delivery – introductory prices will be valid till end of the year. You can also order it from Lazada.

Bromin Emporter

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Giveaway

As mentioned above, Bromin Emporter has given me 2 two different models in blue to review.  I have kept Bromin Tech model for big J as he prefered that model. Hence, I do have the Bromin Lite model worth SGD 108 (in blue) to giveaway. Do note that it is an entirely new ergonomic school bag which I have opened and took photos for this review only. It was not used in any other way. Hence, I would need to arrange for a meetup for collection too , up to my convenience (weekday at Novena, weekend and nights at Potong Pasir).

1. Liked FB pages of mypreciouzkids.com and Bromin Emporter

2. Followed mypreciouzkids  and Bromin Emporter on Instagram

3. Liked and share this FB post and repost this IG post using #mypreciouzkidsgiveaway and tag 5 friends in the same IG post (1 tag per comment) on the same IG post.

Please keep your Facebook shared post and IG shared post public (as indicated in step 3)  in order to qualify so that I can locate your entry.

I will be picking the 1 lucky winners . The giveaway closes on 26 November 2017 2359pm (Sun)

Winner: @iamalicetan

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post.  No monetary compensation was received. All opinions are my own


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Wooden toys (i dare say) that last till the next generation – Janod by My Miracle Baby

I have a love and hate relationship with electronic toys..i guess more hate than love. When I had my first kid, I brought lots of toys, electronic ones mostly. It doesn’t help that that a particular well-known imported toy brand had many warehouse sales making the toys a bargain so my house was filled to the brim with electronic toys. I love them as there is so much light and sound effects coming from it and it sounded like the real thing, however, over the years I find it difficult keep track or remove the batteries when not in play for a long time. I also noticed that kids often are very attracted to electronic toys but the span of attention is often shorter and they lose interest in such toys very fast. So with many instances of batteries leakages etc, I have stopped buying electronic toys or any toys that requires batteries in the past years as I do not have the time or energy to keep track of the batteries and also my kids lose interest in it very fast too.

Lately, I am in more into free forms toys – toys like Lego and also wooden toys. I came acquainted to a French brand called Janod.

Janod is a brand which specializing in wooden toys for the past 40 years. They are recognised for their striking range of children’s wooden educational toys, each beautifully designed with bright bold colours with children’s learning in mind. In Singapore, Janod is exclusively distributed by My Miracle Baby

There are many wooden pretend play toys by Janod carried exclusively by My Miracle Baby, I had to think really hard as big C is a little past the age of playing for kitchen sets and I have 2 younger boys. Do I get a “boy” toy for the sake of the 2 younger ones like the tools set or a kitchen set?  Finally I decided I should not segregate what is consider boy’s or girl’s toys but one that they would be most keen in and I always seen them gearing to a particular pretend play set at play gym etc –  a kitchen set. No one say boys can’t play kitchen set, or that it is a girl toys – in fact my 8 year old boy plays with it too!

The kids were so excited when they saw their latest toy. All toys will give the same effect however, a good toy is one where they are use their imagination during play and many hours of play thereafter, that is when parents feel that its money’s worth and on my part, I do not have to worry about removing the batteries in case of leakages!

There were a few kitchen/cooking set by Janod carried by My Miracle Baby but the French Cocotte Maxi Cooker caught my attention as it doesn’t look too girly..the other set was all pink and sweet.

Let me spam you some pictures how cute is this set. The detailing is superb right down to the “feet” which are  like chicken feet.

love this wooden clock, perfect for teaching the middle two about time

these stick on with magnet!

even the pot handles are in chicken motif and the dials are shaped like eggs!

comes with a hook to hand the red mitten

really cute!

 

 

even the handles are rooster motif

Enough on how beautiful is this set as kids probably can’t appreciate it as much as the mummy. To them, it will be how much fun hours can they get out of it – especially there is no light and sound effect.

It is interesting that my 2 year old seems to be enjoyed the kitchen set the most of my 4 kids. He will spend a good time playing with it…pretending to wash his hand at the sink, cooking, cleaning etc. He will also make the water flowing sound when he “washes” his hands at the sink -pretend play at its best.

I also added the existing fruits and food set so make it more fun to play as there are more things to be “cooked”.

 

Besides pretend play toys, Janod has puzzles, musical instruments, blocks, magnetic books, pull along toys etc, not a single toy by Janod require batteries. So if you are ever looking to invest in some toys or buying as a gift, do look into buying such range of toys and from reputational brands like Janod. I am sure some of the toys can be even pass on to your kids’ kids in future. You can view the full range of Janod toys here.

Besides Janod, My Miracle Baby also carries mummies and kids related products such strollers , swaddles, car seats from reputable brands all over the world –  a one stop webstore for mummies and mummies-to-be too!

My Miracle Baby

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Instagram

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post.  No monetary compensation was received. All opinions are my own. 


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Promo code included: Stuck on You’s personalised bento box – join the revolution!

2 years ago when my eldest went to school, I went to Daiso and bought a SGD 2 dollar snack box. Coupled with the fact that he attend afternoon session school and he prefers to eat at the school canteen, I seldom need to a full lunch for him. After the mandatory snack break was implemented late last year, I brought out my SGD 2 dollar Daiso snack box to pack for his snack break which happens at 5pm.

In recent months, due to a popularity of lunch/bento boxes in the social media, my interest was piqued. It definitely cost many times more than the snack box from Daiso but I am attracted to all the pretty lunch boxes and bento boxes made by mummies (ie not some littlemissbento or domestic goddess). The ready-made compartments in the lunch/bento boxes make it easy for “plating” and you don’t need to make rice ball or elaborate cutting of seaweed sheet to create the look and feel of a bento box.

So when I saw Stuck on You newly launched its new range of personalized bento box (which is so so pretty) I need I need to join the revolution.

Its not just any lunch box as I see it with the personalized bento box from Stuck on You, I was given the opportunity (not much of a chef) to create a balanced meal that is pleasing to the eyes of the kids (especially fussy kids).

Given that the kids will be in morning sessions next year onwards, perhaps I could do some simple meals for their recess especially for big C aka miss fussy lee , I truly worry that she has nothing to eat, or rather she eats the same meal. Their primary school has gone forth to introduce healthy eating as part of their school canteen meals – introduction of brown rice, fruits as part of a meal. I truly applaud their effort to create a more balanced and healthier meals for their students, however, it does create any other issue for fussier kids. I heard that they often leave the fruit of the day untouched etc – creating unnecessary wastage. For kids like big J, there won’t be such issue as he is a fruits lover but it is not the case for big C. So I rather I packed things that she eat than for her to waste food.

At first glance

Ordering online through Stuck on You, is a breeze as there is a preview to see how the actual items will look like before ordering.

When the personalized bento box from Stuck on You arrived, (as I have yet to see a bento lunch box IRL)  I thought it was too big for my petite 6 year old. However, after making a full meal (see section Using it), any smaller in size, the portion will not be enough for the going to be primary 1 kid. Both the box and trays are made entirely of food-safe materials , BPA- free and Phthalates-free. Both the inner tray and outer box are dishwasher safe too.

If you were to pack a full meal, you would definitely need a lunch box carrier (instead of stuffing into the already heavy school bag). Stuck on You also have their personalized and insulated lunch box carrier. For those mummies who are “hoarding” Jujube bags (I am also guilty), I did a test, and it fits perfectly into the Jujube Fuel Cell as well (no need to thank me for giving your Fuel Cell a second life)

But what set it apart of the other in the markets , it comes personalized with your child’s name which makes it so so so pretty and one of its kind. There won’t be another similar bento box in the school canteen for sure!

Using it

After receiving it, I was raring to use it . I looks through my social media and stumbled upon a famous dad from Geelong, Australia (which coincidentally where Stuck on You originates as well) on Instagram who packs for his 2 daughters @schoollunchbox. From the various inspirations from IG, I realized that you don’t need to make very complicated food to make your own bento boxes look pretty.

Here are my maiden attempts for different meals – breakfast, lunch, snack, tea break.

The lid is lined with leak proof silicone seal that covers each individual compartment. That said, it is not advisable to put water or other liquid. The only recommended are yogurt dip and sauces. I did an experiment by putting yogurt and a sauce and tilting the bento box up and down. See this link for my experiment.  Clearly the yogurt and the sauce did not go into the other compartments. However, the yogurt and sauce does end up on the lid. This will not create an issue if the child finish the food in one go. If the child decide to continue eating at a later time,  the child would need to clean the lid before closing it else the remnant liquid on the lid may go into other compartments.

Loving It        

I like that the Stuck on You’s personalized bento box comes in only 1 size but option of 2 inter-changeable trays. The bento box comes with the 5-compartment plus 1 sauce food tray and you can purchase the sandwich tray  (3-compartment plus 1 sauce) separately (in you do not need purchase another bento box just to fit the sandwich tray).

The first time I made the bento (it wasn’t hard as its all ready materials – fruits, yogurts, green, sausages) , my girl went –  I will eat everything ………except for the raw greens. Ok,  none of my kids eat raw greens but big C only eat 2 types of cooked vegetables, yes two, in the whole wide world. The whole presentation (which doesn’t take too much time on my end) makes her a happier eater.

To make the presentation even prettier, get some pretty food picks (from Daiso) and from bread cutters and your bento boxes will look maybe 60 to 70% of the experienced bento makers.

One of the main uses of bento lunch boxes is for rationing and portion control for obese kids.  The compartments also act as a reminder to the mummies/daddies/helpers to pack the 5 main groups of food for a balanced meal.

It comes in 5 beautiful colours (Navy, Hot Pink, Light Pink, Light Blue, Mint) and there are many cute design icons and fonts to choose from. I am sure you will have a hard time deciding the perfect personalized design for your child ( I didn’t have such a hard time as OCD wanted the same matchy design with big C’s personalized school kit which was reviewed here. )

photo credit: Stuck on You

photo credit: Stuck on You

 

I did a few combinations for different colour bento boxes and the design icons just for the fun of it as they are all so pretty!

photo credit: Stuck on You

Stuck on You

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Promo code of 10% on all except value pack: soymypkids (valid till 30 Sept 2017)

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post.  No monetary compensation was received. All opinions are my own. 


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Giveaway & Review of Gakken Science Kits – fun home-based science kits from Japan

I had previously review two awesome products from Gakken Asia – the Go Go workbook series and also New Block. You can read the reviews here.

I am so happy that they have ventured into science kits means big J can benefit from the excellent product range from Gakken Asia. It will be less than half a year more before he will be doing science subject in primary school, but it is my biggest worry as he not only need to handle the current subjects but another subject which may seems foreign to him.

I know that science is all around but I have not done a very good job in exposing him to the wonderful world of science because I am not a very science person myself (though I did science all the way to junior college).

We have dabbled in some home-based science experiments through subscription boxes before and it is true that kids are naturally curious and wanting for more. I couldn’t be more glad when Gakken Asia send across three of their best-sellers science kits for my kids to try. There are many more of such science kits but these are the 3 sets that have been translated from Japanese for the use of the English speaking market.

Air Magic Experiment Kit

I chose to open this as I thought it offered the most hands-on interaction and seemingly most interesting of the 3 kits. All the materials are provided with the exception of 2 AA batteries. The set focuses on airflow and nature of air and its levitational ability. An easy to understand guidebook is also part of the kit to guide parents and child on types of experiments to try.

There are in total 15 types of experiments coming out from this kit.


Nature Observation Telescope Kit

This was the second kit that we attempted to do. It requires the child to build their own light weight telescope. So the first part of the “fun” is to assemble your own telescope.

The booklet that comes with the kit will give some ideas on how to do observation through this telescope. It is also advisable to prepare a notebook so that your child can jot down his observation.

3 Colour LED light

And the final kit, was the 3 Colour LED light. Another quick- to -assemble  science kit just like the telescope which is the part of the initial fun. Thereafter we have to wait for night time or a dark room to perform the suggested experiments.

The guide book that comes with the 3 colour LED light kit.


We waited till it was dark to do a few of the suggested experiments. The 3 primary colour torchlight can be used to lit transparent object and create shadow. One of the suggested experiment is to shine the light onto transparent object  and you will see a kaleidoscope of colours spreading after the object. We will be trying this next once i get some samples of transparent objects such as egg packs, transparent spoon or PET bottles.

did you know the interception between the 3 primary colours is WHITE! When you widen the dial on the torchlight, from the 3 colours, you will be able to found 7 colours too!

 

indulging in some shadow play too

Next we can also do shadow play with the 3 colour LED torchlight . It is more fun that the typical torchlight that only emit 1 colour. With the 3 colour LED torchlight, you can see an array of colours projected. There is an experiment to see the shadow in 3D , where we only use the red and blue lights. With home made 3d glass (paper pattern provided in guide boo)., you will see the shadows appearing in 3D.

As the science kits are original produced in Japan, the guide books have been translated into English, however, the English translation may not be at its best. That said, there wont any difficulty understanding the instruction and guide based on the translated English.

Even though there are a plethora of home-based science experiments that you can find on youtube or on the internet, we often lack the materials and initiatives to perform them at home. Hence subscription boxes and science kits are the next available option (lazy mummy) to do some science experiments at home.

These science kits are excellent for rainy days where we were stuck at home and we can indulge in some family bonding and at the same time discover some science and hopefully to fuel the kids interest in the science subject.

Currently the science kits can be purchased at the following locations:

Gakken Asia

Website

Facebook

Giveaway

Gakken Asia has kindly sponsored 3 Colour LED light science kit worth SGD 25.90 to 1 lucky reader.

  1. Liked FB pages of mypreciouzkids.com
  2. Followed mypreciouzkids on Instagram
  3. Liked and shared this FB post publicly and tag 3 friends or more!

Please keep your Instagram profile public (as indicated in step 3)  in order to qualify so that I can locate your entry. I will be picking the lucky winner using random.org. The giveaway closes on 3rd  Sept 2017 2359pm (Sun).

FB: Winnie Low

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post.  No monetary compensation was received. All opinions are my own. 


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Review (promo included) – IMPACT IPEG-223 Comfort Spinal Protection Backpack ergonomic school bag

2 years ago when I started to source for an ergonomic bag for big J, I was introduced to Ergoworks’ range of Impact ergonomic school backpacks. See here for my previous review  and 1.5 years old on , due to the “abuse” by my 8 year old boy, I think it is still in pretty good condition and if I were to trade in due course, I will get a 20% discount of regular priced ergonomic bags at Ergoworks which is savings to the parents.

Now it is big C’s turn to search for a suitable school bag back to start her formal schooling and I didn’t have to look any further as I am happy with the quality of Impact school backpacks for the past 2 years. I was delighted to see a new range of adjustable ergonomic bags which wasn’t there during big J’s time and the bonus part, it comes with adjustable height as well which is the IMPACT IPEG-223.

IMPACT is the ONLY ergonomic brand internationally endorsed and recommended by Singapore Physiotherapy Association and The Chiropractic Association (Singapore) and is a receipient of many awards proudly displayed at the showroom.

Ergonomics is the process of designing or arranging workplaces, products and systems so that they fit the people who use them. This is especially critically for children as they grow in height and size and what is suitable for them now may not be the case say 1 year later. One way is to change the item every time the child outgrows it, which is costly, the other way is to have an adjustable feature in the item.

Even though I was quite set in getting the IPEG 223, I decided to look at the wall of school backpacks and see if there are other suitable models that big C can carry. I had actually forgotten to take the whole wall of school backpack, the photo below was probably 1/3 of the entire wall of school backpacks. I am sure you will be spoilt for choice but ultimately you need to see which backpack fits your child best!


So I narrow my choices down to these 3 models. We did try the similar model which is the boxy model that big J has been using and it comes in 2 sizes (the ones in purple) which is IMPACT IM-0037A and IMPACT IM-0050A (which also comes in navy blue – which is big J’s bag, royal blue, pink and the purple shown in pic).

The IMPACT IM-0037A was too overwhelming for petite big C (that was the same size that big J started with so I guess big J was slightly bigger and taller at the same age) but the IMPACT IM-0050A was really perfect for her size and it comes with the most beautiful pink lining. I actually would have preferred this model as it has been tried and tested by big J for the past year – roomy, see it all in one glance, but big C insist she wanted the pink IPEG 223. The only drawback of purple bags is that there is no height adjustment for the  IMPACT IM-0037A and IMPACT IM-0050A

bigger model, a tad too big for big C

smaller model, just perfect for big C now!

comes with the prettiest pink lining!

Next, we tried the IPEG-223 which is the newest model , one of the lightest adjustable height ergonomic backpack.

IPEG – 223 fits big C perfectly at the lowest height adjustment

Thanks to 4 steps multi-height adjustable buckles, the bag is suitable for kids from height 110cm all the way to 170 cm. Big C is at 110cm hence, she is at the lowest height setting for now. The next adjustment will be when you notice the waist padding goes above the child’s waist, which means the child has grown taller and require an adjustment to the bag.

The most important thing to note is that the bag should be align to the shoulder of the child. The backpack should not be significantly wider than the shoulders for a proper fit . The base of the backpack should be not lower than the top of the hip bone.

Adjusting the  4 steps multi height adjustable buckles is also very simple and you have to do it only once until your child outgrown the current adjustments.

photo credit: Ergoworks

suitable for kids from 110cm to 170cm in height

a 90 degree turn will remove from the buckle and to put it on, in opposing 90 degree turn

the bag also feature a slight spacing between the back of the neck and the backpack so that there is no brushing of the backpack again the body which is the improved feature in new bags

Parachute rings are to assist in the proper adjustment of the straps

photo credit: Ergoworks

Besides that, Anthony from Ergoworks had also patiently go through the correct method of wearing and adjusting your child’s bag. It is pointless having an ergonomic backpack but not using it correctly. Anthony advised never wear the school backpack from the height of the floor but to place the backpack on the chair/table before wearing the backpack and adjusting the parachute rings to tighten the straps thereafter. There is a also a chest belt to distribute the weight evenly on the wearer.

The IPEG 223 is one of the lightest adjustable ergonomic backpacks at 950g and with a height of 28 cm. Some of the other noteworthy features of the bag includes  Comfy U Neck Fit Back straps, USA 3M Scotchlite Reflective Safety Materials ,  Patented Chest Stabilization Belt and High Quality Self Repairing Recoilless Zipper with Loop Lock Design.

This is the main bag, the heaviest books should be placed at the back of the bag

this is the middle compartment with pockets

front most compartment for wallet etc

IPEG-223 comes in two colours – perfect for your prince or your princess!

Retailing at a special discounted price of SGD149 (original price SGD 169) and comes with a 180 days warranty and an option to trade in with a 20% discount off the future school backpack’s price.

Besides being one for the biggest ergonomic school bag suppliers in Singapore, Ergoworks  showrooms (details below) are also your one-stop solution on all things ergonomic – from ergonomic tables to chairs both for kids and adults. A visit to their showroom in Marina Square (which was the showroom that I visited), you will be in awe at the range of ergonomic products, from chairs, recliners, workstations for kids and adults, LED lights etc and even water bottles for kids! You may end up with items that you can improve your own livelihood as well as it is not just catered to students and children but to adults too!

Ergoworks

Website

Facebook

Instagram 

Marina Square

6 Raffles Boulevard #03-337 Marina Square

Opens Daily: 11:30am – 9.00 pm

Telephone: 6837 3370

Centrepoint

176 Orchard Road #03-36 Centrepoint

Opens Daily: 11:30am – 9.00 pm

Telephone: 6836 8488

Causeway Point

1 Woodlands Square #03-26 Causeway Point

Opens Daily: 11:30am – 9.00 pm

Telephone: 6893 8488

For the benefits of readers of mypreciouzkids, Ergoworks has kindly included a free gift with every purchase of IMPACT ergonomic bag at any of the 3 outlets. All you have to do is to print and present the image below when purchasing an  IMPACT bag between 2/9 to 30/9/17 to be entitled to the free gift. Its great for kids who are already starting to use laptop as part of the school curriculum.

 

 

 

 


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This entry was posted in product.

Giveaway and Review of Yijan musical electric toothbrush

I don’t really have an issue with my kids not wanting to brush their teeth. In fact even the 2 year old loves to take the tooth brush to “brush” his teeth, or rather bite as he doesn’t really know how to brush. However, I do have an issue with the older kids brushing their teeth so fast within record time, probably in half a minute or less. Ok,  I am also guilty of it myself as I don’t think I spend more 2 minutes brushing my teeth.  How do I as a parents ensure that my kids does a minimum 2 minutes of effective brushing (which is the recommendation by dentist)?

While it has not been proven that electric tooth brush is better than manual toothbrush, one thing for sure, children who are reluctant brushers or have difficulty brushing with a manual brush, an electric brush may be easier or more comfortable to use. For the child like small C , who doesn’t really know how to brush their teeth, an electrical toothbrush will also help in maintaining his oral hygiene.

Most branded electrical toothbrush for kids requires an app to be installed in the smart phone as a timer and to encourage the kids to brush longer and more effectively. For the first few times, it may be fun to use as there is sound and visual, but after a while, I really worry that my phone goes swimming in the sink when I couldn’t supervise them in their teeth brushing process.

In replacement of having an app on the smartphone, Yijan has created an innovative electrical, musical and waterproof tooth brush has a brushing teeth song that guide little kids the correct way to brush their teeth.  Besides having the song, the toothbrush has  a vibration of 8000 strokes/minute to stimulate growing gum.  Besides that, each tooth brush come with a cute cap to keep the brush head clean from germs and bacteria.

My kids were to excited when they saw the Yijan toothbrush due to the cute design. Well, they didn’t really know what was it until the remove the cap. When they realise the toothbrushs play music, it was an even bigger surprise. They have been asking very diligently to brush their teeth every night all thanks to the song. Also thanks to the song they have been brushing their teeth for a cool 2 minutes.

I didn’t know that brushing teeth can be fun but my kids loved their new toothbrush. They get very tickled by the song too. However if the kids are brushing at the same time, I recommend one toothbrush to be on silent mode and while the other with music on.

Yijan musical toothbrush comes in 3 very pretty colours: Pink, Blue and Mint (Green)

photo credit : Our One and Only

For the starter Value Pack, it comes with 2 toothbrush head ( silicone toothbrush and small nylon bristle brush head). The silicone toothbrush is suitable for kids age 3 and below while a small nylon bristle brush head for kids age 3 years to 9 years old. For older kids between 9 to 12, they have medium nylon bristle brush head (purchased separately) All brush head can be bought separately  for replacement(prices below). Using just 1 AAA battery, it can last up to 2 months. It is recommended to change the brush head every 3 months.

credit: Our One and Only

Price of the musical toothbrush is $36.90 and comes with 1 year warranty on the motor.

Especially for the readers of mypreciouzkids , you can purchase the online at $26.90 instead of $36.90 using the discount code : jamiempk . For online purchase, you can opt for the toothbrush head size that you prefer.  You can also purchase at Bove by Spring Maternity.

You can hear the full song via this youtube video.

Replacement toothbrush can be bought from Our One and Only online store or at Bove by Spring Maternity.

Silicon brush head: $5.90

Nylon small brush head: $6.90

Nylon medium brush head: $7.90

Our One and Only

Website

Facebook /Facebook

Instagram

 

Giveaway

Our One and Only has kindly sponsored one set (colour of your choice) worth SGD 36.90 to 1 lucky reader.

1. Liked FB pages of mypreciouzkids.com and Our One and Only and Yijan Singapore

2. Followed mypreciouzkids and Our One and Only  on Instagram

3. Repost this visual on IG (tag 3 friends ) (on my IG post, one tag per comment) with hashtag #mypreciouzkidsgiveaway.

Please keep your Instagram profile public (as indicated in step 3)  in order to qualify so that I can locate your entry. I will be picking the lucky winner using random.org. The giveaway closes on 6th Aug 2017 2359pm (Sun).

winner: @syasya101088

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post.  No monetary compensation was received. All opinions are my own. 


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