I received a KidzSafe Audio Gear product for the purpose of this review. This post was made possible by Mom Spark Media. No opinions should be taken as professional or medical advice. All photos and thoughts contained below are original and copyright Momma Told Me Blog 2015.
Momma Told Me: Turn it down, you're going to go deaf!
I still remember my first Walkman. It had the most fashionable headphones. You know the kind with the thin wire frame and the bright orange ear pads made of a sponge-like foam material? You could sit on them, twist them, drop them, and roll over them with your bike, and they would not break. But they also had the less than desirable feature of broadcasting your personal audio entertainment to the entire mini van, and that made for one cranky Momma. Naturally, I'd turn up the volume to drown out her protests, as she fumbled with the dash controls to funnel her favorite radio station towards the front speakers. And so I spent the majority of my tween and teen years ignoring that which my parents said for the melodic screams of much younger adults with trendier hairstyles.
Children, especially tweens, spend a lot of time listening to modern media. From the moment they arrive home in that slow humming giraffe rocker, to their first audible glimpse of Mickey Mouse Clubhouse (Misca Musca Mickey Mouse!) our children are groomed to respond to stimuli they can hear. We're even told that they learn better when lessons are set to a familiar tune or repeating rhyme, so we let them plug into their iPads and even our smartphones and stream away. But what is all of that headphone time really doing?
Did you know that hearing loss due to noise exposure is the only form of hearing loss that is entirely preventable? This type of hearing loss can also develop over time, as the inner ear's sensitive 'hair cells' are damaged as a result of direct sound waves that are too loud. Believe it or not- this form of hearing loss is often the cause of self induced over-exposure.
KidzSafe audio equipment, earphones, speakers, and more are specially designed to limit sound output below 85db (the level at which studies indicate hearing damage can occur.) Since there is no way for children and parents to easily regulate or measure sound output on most modern audio devices this takes the guesswork out of recreational music and audio consumption and gives parents the peace of mind they need. KidzSafe products are also designed with your child's tastes in mind, utilizing durable materials and a rich palette of neon colors. KidzSafe D.I.Y. Headphones come in 4 beautiful color combinations, each with interchangeable ear pads of a complimentary color.
The MyDesign D.I.Y. headphones also include 50+ designer stickers and 2 matching cord sets so your child can truly make their style shine while listening in comfort. And these audiologist recommended headphones also come with a carrying case, so you don't have to worry about those spare parts getting lost, or the cords getting tangled. Kiara (10) immediately knew the Pink MyDesign D.I.Y. KidzSafe headphones were for her and began the process of painstakingly deliberating over sticker placement. She especially loved that the headphones could showcase BOTH her favorite colors, pink and purple, and that the stickers were 'sparkly.'
Of course the volume of the sound is just as important as the message of the music coming out of the headphones, so I went ahead and made up a Tween (Girls) Playlist from some of Radio Disney's top 50 songs right now. While Radio Disney has child-friendly edits available, not all of the songs they edit or cover are still the most tween friendly in message and theme. Remember to pay attention to what your tween is listening to- just because a song talks about popcicles and rainbows does not mean it won't provoke smart questions from your daughter down the line! As a general rule, listen to all approved music with your tween and always be prepared to discuss the song's meaning- especially if you're not comfortable with hearing them repeat the words back!
We love our KidzSafe D.I.Y. MyDesign Headphones, and are looking into getting a wireless speaker for Kiara's younger brother (5) who could use something durable to carry around and into the backyard while he plays. Sometimes, as adults, we are not the best role-models, un-intentionaly- I know I'll also be more aware of how loud I play the music when around small ears, from now on! Follow KidzSafe on Facebook and Twitter for more kids safe audio tips. Now dish- what's one song you or your tween have to turn up when it comes on the radio?
What Daughter Says: What's comfortable may not be what's safest- choose decibel limiting personal audio gear to protect developing ears.
I received a KidzSafe Audio Gear product for the purpose of this review. This post was made possible by Mom Spark Media. No opinions should be taken as professional or medical advice.
***I received a sample product in hopes I would share my thoughts here on Momma Told Me. All photos and opinions contained below are copyright Momma Told Me Blog 2015.
Momma Told Me: Beauty is only skin deep.
Airbrushing, as a term, has quite the negative connotation among modern women. Whether you're discussing the latest cover of Cosmopolitan or the actress walking down the red carpet at the Academy Awards, digital and physical airbrush treatments, to enhance beauty or conceal flaws are often associated with professionals and celebrities. I've often struggled with the difference between removing a zit on a model's face in Photoshop versus covering it up with layers of makeup. To me, it really makes no difference. And, at the end of the day, such a thing is trivial compared to the aspect that blemishes, puffiness, and skin tone are ever changing. My personal stance is, if you wear makeup to enhance beauty, it doesn't matter how you do it.
That being said, many women do not realize that Airbrush Makeup Systems actually can enhance natural beauty far easier than traditional, or even mineral cosmetics on two levels. Not only do several airbrush makeup companies make hypoallergenic and 'natural' formulas for use with their systems but their are also several mom and pop style brands that custom make organic and natural sourced cosmetics for use with them.
Most importantly, the finite nature of airbrushing makeup allows for a controlled application that is as light and natural in appearance as the user desires. In fact, thanks to the fine distribution, only a few drops of foundation go into the average full facial application. Because the makeup is distributed at such a fine ratio, over such a wide canvas, at once, the minimization of imperfections in skin tone is magnified and dramatically instant. Using an in home airbrush system can save you money, space, and even offer versatility with a wide range of products.
If you're like me, you're probably intrigued by the concept of a personal airbrush system, but concerned about the cost of investing in a system itself, and the ease of learning to master it. Luminess Cosmetics manufactures several ranges of personal airbrush makeup systems starting at just under $200- I even spotted (pun intended) a limited edition Leopard Basic System in the online store! There are hours of free to access 'how to' content through the brand and on YouTube- but the Luminess EPIC Airbrush System really spoke to me (literally.) This brand new PRO system has a built in screen with video walk throughs for basic techniques and more!
Let me introduce you to Savannah, Sabrina's mother. You've all met her before, but we're going to get a little up close and personal with her pores so I figured a formal introduction was appropriate. These photos were taken just over a week after the birth of her second child. Having just endured her first pregnancy in 11 years Savannah felt like a stranger in her own body and was struggling to reclaim her personal identity through the difficult postpartum period. Can you believe this woman didn't feel beautiful? So I staged an intervention and brought the Luminess EPIC over for a girl's afternoon to see if the two of us could master, or at least manage, personal cosmetics airbrushing.
The unit itself is surprising quiet, with a powerful but humming air compressor that remains on during use through a simple switch mechanism. Most Luminess systems come with a starter kit, including primer and moisturizer for application prior to makeup. Using the stylus is as simple as placing 3-4 drops of your desired cosmetic into the stylus barrel and pulling back on the flat (top located) trigger while applying in sweeping motions 5-6 inches from your face. If you are applying at the right distance you should not feel 'wet' or 'sticky' during the process. The key to even application and a natural finish is to remain moving constantly and to maintain an even distance.
Basic application of foundation will take a few uses to truly master- but you likely did not learn to put traditional makeup on overnight either! The videos are extremely helpful with full 'pause' modes so you can visually see the techniques, as well as listen to the audio cues before application. Once you've figured out full face (foundation) application the rest is pretty much child's play as blush allows for a more dramatic (closer application) and eyeshadow is perhaps the strangest part of the experience. Luckily the flow of air emitting from the stylus can be controlled in intensity and is fairly tame on a closed lid.
Using an airbrush cosmetics system also allows for customization of skin tones and shade blending. Your starter kit will come with 4 shades of skin tones in Light, Medium, or Dark kits. You can literally create and match any hue of skin by alternating various drops of different shades directly in the barrel before application. Your first use will require some playing and swatches o the back of the hand, but once you're figured out your skin tone, you're all set. Best of all, you don't need to buy new makeup during the Summer when you tan, or such, as you can always blend a new hue to suit your skin's changing complexion.
Cleaning the airbrush system is very basic and primarily involves running a few drops of water through the stylus before changing colors or putting the unit away. There is a slightly more involved cleaning technique that should be done about once a month to deep clean your instrument and keep it running at optimal performance. We found no irritation or sensitivity in using the Luminess brand of cosmetics and even noted that we felt as though we weren't wearing makeup at all, throughout the day!
Savannah has beautiful skin and gorgeous freckles- I was glad to see the character of her skin could still shine through the Luminess airbrush makeup, while still providing the control and even finish she was hoping for in her look. This natural look takes about 5 minutes to apply and just 9 drops of product, which means the starter kit alone could last an individual a month. Refill cosmetics are available in house around $8-$12 a bottle, and online through independent brands for $6-$8.
Of course, after waiting for the adults to figure out and play with the Luminess EPIC for 2 hours, ever so patiently, Sabrina wanted her turn. I should note we do NOT let Sabrina wear makeup for any event, so this was a very special and one time treat for her(and boy did she ever get a big head, that girl is going to be T-R-O-U-B-L-E.) Using the same cosmetics her mother and I used, I applied slightly thicker application to emulate that which the typical user might apply for a more formal day. It's important to note that we matched Sabrina's skin tone with the SAME colors we used to match her mother- impressive, right?
Overall, the Luminess EPIC system is great for beauty enthusiasts who want their first airbrush system, though I feel moderate cosmetics users will be able to enjoy the basic Luminess systems at half the price with the use of YouTube tutorials. In all, I've decided that airbrush makeup can be very practical in appearance and cost, and encourage anyone curious to try it out. Check out the Instagram video below for a little more info on how the EPIC works.
What Daughter Says: Let more of your skin, and natural beauty, show through airbrush makeup application.
We received the following aquarium in hopes we would share our experiences here on the blog. All fish/decorations/etc were purchased separate and are not affiliated. We are not experts, please consult one before adopting fish and beginning a new tank.
Momma Told Me: Don't look at me, its your pet!
We have a lot of pets in our household, and Sabrina(12) certainly has had a menagerie through the years. Her mother has caved on more than one 'But mom!' paired with a sad face and puppy eyes, but none have ever really been her pet. Having a beloved animal in the home that you interact and play with is much different than being responsible for a living thing through and through. So, when the pleas for a new pet began most recently we decided we would cave with a pet she could call all her own; 3 colorful guppies she promptly named Squiggles, Spot, and Steven. But before we could bring them home we had a bit of a quest to find and setup the perfect first tank.
After a lot of research, and some important insight from Sabrina (this one lights up and plays music) we decided on a modest sized API AquaTunes 2.5 Gallon Aquarium. Naturally the adults had more scientific reasoning than the tween. While its a simple acrylic tank, the 2.5 is the perfect starter size to allow 3-4 small school size fish while allowing room for decorations (one of the most important parts from a child's perspective!) I loved that is was not only affordable, at around $40 retail, but came packaged as a comprehensive kit including API Quick Start Aquarium Food/Treatments, a Superclean 10 Filtration Pump, 3 Color LED Lighting, and MP3 Sound Stick.
Out of the box the API AquaTunes aquariums are ready to go, so to speak- you will want to set up and cycle your tank about 2 weeks prior to adding fish. Read more about tank preparation in our First Tank For Kids Guide from earlier this year. What you WILL need to purchase is a long term water treatment solution, long term fish food source, gravel or rock bedding of choice (about 5lbs) and 1 medium or 2-3 small decorations. Corner tanks offer great visibility in use, but can be a bit of a pain to fill and decorate so bring the acrylic tank with you to pick out decorations if possible. The only thing more frustrating than a child waiting 2 weeks to bring home fish is one who has waited 2 weeks and then hears their Sofia The First fish castle doesn't fit!
For children old enough to help with setup establishing a tank can be a valuable learning experience (and a test in patience.) Read up on and learn about the carbon cycles for aquariums, and balancing pH levels (even in low level 'Guppy' style aquariums.) Remember to stress that the fish are a living responsibility and proper cleaning and care of the aquarium is vital to their survival. In general I always recommend bringing a water sample in to your local pet store for free testing before introducing fish into a new tank.As professionals they will be able to ensure your aquarium is ready to become the new aquatic environment for your swimming friends.
I have to say not only did Sabrina do a great job decorating and laying out her AquaTunes aquarium, but the first initial views were breath-taking. The acrylic is crystal clear and the wide walls of the corner shaped aquarium make for optimal viewing at any angle. The AquaTunes is essentially identical to the API Corner 2.5 Gallon tank except that which gives it it's name- the simple LED lighting and sound fixture that mounts in the lid of the tank. This simple device has a three color alternating LED color lamp (Red, Blue, and Green) and the ability to play sound clips and songs from a micro SD card. And let me tell you this unit is LOUD and clear.
Sabrina was beside herself to learn she could have a fish tank all her own AND play Bruno Mars in her bedroom. This was one big win all around for the cost- and that lesson in responsibility? Those fish have not only survived 3 months so far, but made a trip from California to Texas in her recent move. I'd say she's really stepping up thanks to her new AquaTunes aquarium! You'll find this and other API aquariums online at Amazon.com and in stores such as Walmart and Kohl's.
What Daughter Says: Help foster responsibility with the gift of a starter aquarium this holiday season.
One Momma Told Me reader will win an 2.5 AquaTunes API Aquarium! Enter below and click the banner above to be taken to the official event Giveaway LINKY!
I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.
Momma Told Me: It ain't easy being pretty.
Shoes with heels, next to the corset, just may be one of the cruelest fashion accessories ever invented to torture women. Few articles of clothing look so deceptively attractive and wreak so much havoc and damage upon our bodies. Perhaps one of the more twisted examples of heels in modern footwear is the 'hidden heel' or wedge, in which the only person who can perceive an elevation in heel is the one wearing the actual shoes. The most common presentation of this phenomenon is the example image of the 'sneakers' below, which in fact have a 1.5" wedge built into the back of them. One tricks their mind into thinking they are wearing ordinary casual footwear, while their back is undergoing the pressure of altered arches and drops hours a day.
Few things could illustrate this example, and caution, like my trip to the Oregon Coast last year- where the only shoes I packed were said wedges, and flip flops. By the time I'd arrived at our impromptu destination, full group in tow, int he company of eager family members, I at last realized I was about to hike to the highest lookout point on the Oregon Coast in, essentially, wedges. I won't lie, it didn't feel like an issue at the time- I didn't notice myself straining to climb, and the paths were well fleshed out. Unfortunately, through Thanksgiving, I found myself barely able to get out of a chair without screaming in pain. The hidden angles within my shoes, combined with the sharp angles of the terrain meant bad news for my lower back.
So I did what most American women would do and I swore off 'nice' shoes until my back had once again cooled down. Unfortunately, the damage was much more long term. Even a year later, wearing heels for more than few hours promises aches and pains later. A physical therapist, who has also been coaching on how to treat joint paint after league (bowling) suggested we invest in an affordable at-home TENS (Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) unit that would effectively treat long term pain through pulse massage. I'll admit, it all sounded a little medieval at first, and the idea of putting electrodes on my skin was not compelling.
When a very large name pain care brand, for athletes, released a similar consumer device, at a hefty price, I decided to invest- Unfortunately, the company was more concerned about selling different pads to treat different areas, then offering their consumers versatile, all over, treatment. I returned the unit, and now had the courage to search online. The Santa Medical #TENSunit Electronic Pulse Massager was under $40 and includes 2 individually operating electrode pairs for unlimited physical treatment configurations. It also boasted a compact remote operation, about the size of our cable remote, six stimulation modes (think of these as the massage formats you'd find in the pedicure chair at the salon,) and an LCD display.
Running on just 4 AAA batteries, this little unit has many levels of intensity and quick treatment buttons for various target areas such as the neck, waist/shoulder, hand/leg, sole, and joint. I especially love that I can choose a pre-set treatment, or custom adjust the intensity and formation of pulses to my own preference. This #TENSunit works by transmitting micro pulse emissions to your nerves, which help shut down and soothe pain receptors. It is not intended to stop or treat the cause of the pain, but help soothe the muscles and joints response to pain.
While I was greatly impressed with the quality of the pulse massage
treatment (which in fact had multiple distinct patterns, and felt much
like a high end massage chair might) I wished there was more literature
about pad placement and area treatment. For this, anyone new to a TENS
Unit will want to consult their physical therapist, or an online guide
to make the most of their treatment. Additionally, I'd ordinarily
suggest buying a second set of pads, for anyone who plans on sharing
their unit- but the affordable price of the Santa Medical Electronic
Pulse Massager overall lends itself towards owning multiple units, one
per user.
Through my own personal experience with TENs therapy, for lower back
pain, and joint issues at the knee, there is no faster relief of pain;
nor a more convenient, drug free, one- especially when pain strikes out
of the blue. There are a variety of uses and pain causes that can be
effectively treated with this unit, when used with knowledge and a
guide; making it a great gift this holiday season for anyone who
experiences muscle stiffness or pain with regularity.
What Daughter Says: We can't always avoid the cost of beauty, but we can help ease the pain of being beautiful.
**I received the following EATSmart product in hopes I would share my honest thoughts. All photos and opinions contained below are original and copyright Momma Told Me Blog 2014.
Momma Told Me: Done before delicious.
Along with the basic lesson of Hot Versus Cold, Momma was quick to teach me some important kitchen safety rules from a young age. As soon as it was safe for me to reach the counter without 'toppling' dangers, I rarely left her side when she was cooking. I'll admit, I rather preferred the fun foods (things with ingredients where bowls could be safely licked prior to being cleaned, or recipes that could be taste tested as they cooked.) However, not all foods were 'fun' to make, and many of our main entrees required several tedious steps of sanitizing and separation. I suppose I would have cared a lot more for these practices had I ever experienced a bad case of food poisoning; luckily Momma was not that hands on with her lessons.
Naturally, as an adult with my own kitchen, I have since learned about food safety the hard way through a series of horror stories. Rarely can one pinpoint a single poor food handling choice to illness, but when that stomach virus hits, there's always those questions in the back of my mind. Then there's the fact that I seem to have the immune system of an amoeba, which makes me doubly concerned about safe kitchen practices. Every time Sabrina and I touch eggs we recite a little rhyme to remind ourselves of the importance of sanitizing and seperation:
Salmonella loves chicken and duck
If you don’t cook it well, you’re out of luck
Raw eggs and turkeys too
If you don’t wash up, it’s gonna get you
And, because cooking raw meats to a safe temperature is one of the most common and important food safety practices in my kitchen, I have been through countless food thermometers over the years. I always seem to buy the manual punch-style units that tend to be temperamental to read and slow to average out. When I received the EATSmart Precision Elite Thermocouple Food Thermometer for review here on Momma Told Me I was tickled by the cherry red finish (which matched my appliances) and the complimentary carry case with easy 'grill belt' attachment. And, because the probe folded down against the unit for compact storage, I was sure I wouldn't be losing it among the clutter of my kitchen drawers.
The Precision Elite Thermometer has a standard LED display readout with quick illuminating blue back-light. This makes the readouts incredibly easy to read outdoors and in direct lighting, though I did find a little frustration in the lighting disappearing before I could note the final temperature. Using the 'Hold' button will help remedy this, placing the unit in a sort of standby mode, to help take prolonged or building readings. And, thanks to it's unique thermocouple technology the Precision Elite can read out accurate temperatures ranging from -40F to 572F in a matter of seconds.
One of the things I especially liked about using this digital food thermometer was the fine, graduated 1.5mm step-down stainless steel tip, that even allowed for controlled temperate readings on smaller and more delicate items. Because it's battery operated I can take my EATSmart thermometer outside to the grill, and back inside to the oven for a complete meal with safe cooking temperatures all around.
What are some of your best food handling practices?
What Daughter Says: Keep your food safe and your tummies full with simple kitchen aids and practices.
One Momma Told Me reader will win an EATSmart Precision Elite Thermometer!
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