Summer DVD Releases

I think it’s been weeks since my husband and I have watched a movie…particularly one that isn’t animated!  Since we don’t get a lot of opportunities to go out to the movies, we rely on DVD and Netflix to catch up on the latest releases.

On August 24th, Image Entertainment will release $5 A Day on Blu-Ray ($29.98) and DVD ($27.98).  With an all-star cast line up including Christopher Walken, Sharon Stone, Amanda Peet, and Peter Coyote, $5 A Day will make you laugh and warm your heart.  Here is a short synopsis from the site:

Nat (Christopher Walken) is an eccentric conman – a hustler content with a life of schemes and underhanded deals.  He lacks one thing:  a reconciliation with his son, Flynn (Alessandro Nivola), who has ceased trusting his father long ago.  But Nat’s time is growing short:  he has been diagnosed with a terminal illness.  True to form, Nat cons Flynn into joining him in a cross country journey to an experimental medical facility.  Short on money, but not on imagination, the two realize that to reach their destination they can spend no more than $5 A Day.  They come up with increasingly ridiculous schemes to keep within their budget – but there is a distance of emotion as well as miles to cover.  Are they on the path towards a father-son reunion?

On September 14th, Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment and Jerry Bruckheimer Films will release Prince of Persia:  The Sands of Time on Blu-Ray and DVD.  Starring Academy Award nominee Jake Gyllenhaal and Academy Award winner Sir Ben Kingsley, this action-adventure film is filled with “spectacular visual effects, exotic locales, and breathtaking action.” Here is a short synopsis from the site:

In the spirit of the Pirates of the Caribbean trilogy, Walt Disney Pictures and Jerry Bruckheimer Films transport you to the mystical lands of Persia for this wildly entertaining, epic action-adventure.  It‘s a race against time when a rogue prince (Jake Gyllenhaal) reluctantly teams up with a rival princess (Gemma Arterton) to safeguard a magical dagger that gives its possessor the power to reverse time and rule the world.  Filled with death-defying escapes and unexpected twists at every turn – Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time is a fun-filled adventure that will keep your pulse pounding long after the credits end.

On September 21, Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment will release Tinker Bell and the Great Fairy Rescue on Blu-ray & DVD.  The movie features the voice talents of Michael Sheen, Pamela Adlon, Lucy Liu, and Kristin Chenoweth as fairies and humans meet for the first time.  Here is a short synopsis from the site:

What would you do if you met a fairy? Witness the historic moment when Tinker Bell first meets a human being, and it’s not who you think.  Years before meeting Wendy and the Lost Boys, Tinker Bell met Lizzy, a little girl with a steadfast belief in the power of pixie dust and the magic land of fairies.  During the fairies’ summer visit to the flowering meadows of England, two very different worlds unite for the first time and Tink develops a special bond with a curious child in need of a friend.  As her fellow fairies launch a daring rescue, Tinker Bell takes a huge risk, putting her own safety and the future of all fairykind in jeopardy.  Experience Disney’s astonishing all-new movie about the true power of faith and friendship.

Lastly, I know it’s not a movie per se, but one of my favorite shows (the 4th season), which is no longer on air, just came out on DVD. Ugly Betty: The Complete Fourth and Final Season, is now available on DVD from Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment.

There are underdogs and then there is Betty Suarez, the ultimate “fish-out-of-water.”  Her efforts to fit in with her colleagues at a glossy magazine may bring unintentionally hysterical results, but they also have audiences rooting for their favorite fashionista. Betty sure has come a long way! She is finally coming into her own and getting what she’s worked so hard for. But what she doesn’t realize is that she’s starting over in so many ways, and if she wants to play in the big leagues she needs to keep up.

No compensation was received for this post.

Alice In Wonderland…All Grown Up

You know the story…A girl named Alice chases a rabbit into a hole during a dream and finds herself amongst a disappearing cat, an army of cards, and an elusive white rabbit in Wonderland.  Fast forward several years to an Alice who’s all grown up, about to get engaged to a man she’s lukewarm about. She’s trapped in a pretentious society of do’s and don’ts, attempting to find her identity.

Tim Burton’s take on Alice in Wonderland is fascinating, imaginative, and even dark at times.  The movie isn’t a sequel…or a re-make.  It’s so much more than that.  The characters are intricate and well-developed.  The cinematography is stunning.  The story evokes nostalgia and remnants of Lewis Carroll’s original work are evident throughout.  Here is a brief summary from the site:

From Walt Disney Pictures and visionary director Tim Burton comes an epic 3D fantasy adventure ALICE IN WONDERLAND, a magical and imaginative twist on some of the most beloved stories of all time. JOHNNY DEPP stars as the Mad Hatter and MIA WASIKOWSKA as 19-year-old Alice, who returns to the whimsical world she first encountered as a young girl, reuniting with her childhood friends: the White Rabbit, Tweedledee and Tweedledum, the Dormouse, the Caterpillar, the Cheshire Cat, and of course, the Mad Hatter. Alice embarks on a fantastical journey to find her true destiny and end the Red Queen’s reign of terror.

Alice In Wonderland is available now on Blu-Ray and DVD.

No compensation was received for this post.  A copy of the movie was provided to facilitate this review.

Here Comes Peter Cottontail

There are times like today, when my son was watching a remastered version of Here Comes Peter Cottontail, that I feel just a bit old. At the same time, a sense of nostalgia washes over me as I watch this film that I watched with my mom as a child.

Here Comes Peter Cottontail is all about a bunny who’s goal is to save Easter for children everywhere. He races through time to celebrate classic holidays (like Christmas) to deliver the most eggs.  Do you remember stop motion animation (aka clay-mation) used in movies like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and Frosty the Snowman?  This is the same type of animation used in the film (giving it a classic feel).

My son isn’t hugely familiar with Easter (we must have a chat about the fact that Easter is more than bunnies and eggs…but I digressed), but he knows enough about the holiday to be excited about finding hidden eggs (after all…it’s a tradition).  My son really enjoyed the different holidays highlighted (especially because Christmas is his favorite holiday).  At times, I thought it was a bit old for him (considering Evil Irontail) but he actually sat through it with me and enjoyed it.

Here Comes Peter Cottontail is available for $9.93 at retailers nationwide and on iTunes for $7.99.

Be sure to check out my Easter Egg Hunt for your chance at winning on of your own.

I did not receive compensation for this post.  A copy of the DVD was provided via the Family Review Network to facilitate this review/giveaway.

Alvin & The Chipmunks: The Squeakquel *Giveaway*

This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by.  The winners are Sue E, Shanna, Paula, Jenn, and Kevin E.

I should know better than to hype up an event with my 2 1/2 year old days before it’s to occur.  My son never forgets things like this (but somehow manages to “forget” that it’s not ok to throw food on the floor…or hit his baby sister…sigh!) and days leading up to the event I heard a lot of “I want to see the chipmunks!”  But I digressed. Last week, we headed over to Fox Studios for a media event celebrating the release of Alvin & The Chipmunks: The Squeakquel.

Now, I haven’t actually seen the first movie, but from some of the clips shown at the event, it looks like a fun movie for adults and kids alike.  Here is a bit more info on the release, scheduled for March 30:

Pop sensations Alvin, Simon and Theodore end up in the care of Dave Seville’s twenty-something nephew Toby. The boys must put aside music super stardom to return to school, and are tasked with saving the school’s music program by winning the $25,000 prize in a battle of the bands. But the Chipmunks unexpectedly meet their match in three singing chipmunks known as The Chipettes -– Brittany, Eleanor and Jeanette. Romantic and musical sparks are ignited when the Chipmunks and Chipettes square off.

While we were at Fox Studios, my son met the chipmunks,

and danced to their single, “Single Ladies”

I learned that their is a Spanish language version of this movie and that these three chipmunks have actually “munk’d” the nation for over 50 years.  I also learned that they’re named after the executives of their original record label and that their high-pitched voices were originally created by speeding up the play back.

When we got home, my son thought we were going to watch the movie (aw…).  Fortunately, we’re going to get a review copy!

Here are a couple of coloring pages for your kids:

Right now, you can enter to win a $50,00 nest egg by visiting their website.  You’ll also find fun Easter-themed activities including downloadable character coloring pages, coupons, and games.

Win It! FIVE of you will win a copy of Alvin & The Chipmunks:  The Squeakquel on DVD.  Simply leave me a comment with something you like about Alvin and the Chipmunks.  Comments will close on April 6, 2010 at 11:59 PM PST.  One comment per person, please (unless you do the extra credit). US residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one.

Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

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Blog about this giveaway. It doesn’t have to be a separate post. Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways.

Click on one of the very cute buttons below and digg, stumble, fav, etc. Just let me know what you did in the comments!

I did not receive compensation for this post.  I received a copy of the DVD to facilitate this review.

Valentine’s Day Gift Idea: Amelia *Giveaway*

This giveaway is now closed.  Thanks for stopping by.  The winners are Charlene K., Marla Y., Rosey, Melanie, and Linda K.  Congrats!

Last week, Fox Searchlight released Amelia on DVD.  This romantic drama stars Richard Gere and Hilary Swank, and just might make for a cozy Valentine’s Day movie!  Here is a bit more about the movie, from the site:

Experience the romance, struggle and triumph of legendary aviatrix Amelia Earhart as she chases love and lives her dreams in Amelia.  Hailed as “The Queen of the Air,” Amelia boldly flew into the annals of history with her solo flight across the Atlantic Ocean. Bound by ambition and love, her enduring marriage to George Putnam could not be broken by her determination to fly, or a secret passionate affair. Equal parts gripping drama, stirring romance and epic adventure, Amelia will take your breath away and send your spirit soaring!

The movie was JUST released on DVD so be sure to come back for my review.  It’s available now on DVD and Blu-Ray. 

Win It! Five of you will win a copy of Amelia on DVD.  Simply leave me a topic-related comment.  Comments will close on February 24, 2010 at 11:59 PM PST.  One comment per person, please (unless you do the extra credit). US residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one.

Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

Follow me on Twitter AND tweet about the contest.

Subscribe to my feed via email or reader.

Blog about this giveaway. It doesn’t have to be a separate post. Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways.

Click on one of the very cute buttons below and digg, stumble, fav, etc. Just let me know what you did in the comments!

I did not receive compensation for this post.  I received the DVD, courtesy of the company to facilitate this review.

Drew Barrymore Talks About Her Directorial Debut In Whip It *Giveaway*

This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by.  The winners are Mildred, Shel, Jen, Laura B, and Amber G.  Congrats!

This past week was a whirlwind!  Along with the multiple media events we had the honor of attending, I had an opportunity to speak with two celebrities and a famous pediatrician (more on that to come this week!).  I have to admit two things:  1.  I was completely starstruck 2.  I was nervous each and every time.

I feel like I’ve grown up with Drew Barrymore (we’re right around the same age).  I remember watching her for the first time as a child in E.T. Her latest accomplishment is her directorial debut in Whip It (oh..did I mention she also acts in the movie?).  I’ve watched it twice. It’s that good!  Here is a brief summary:

When a rebellious teenager gets tired of following in her family’s footsteps and ditches the beauty pageant circuit, she finds her own ‘tribe’ and comes full circle to uncover an unshakable bond with her mother.  The coming-of-age comedy stars Ellen Page, Drew Barrymore, Juliette Lewis, Jimmy Fallon, Daniel Stern and Marcia Gay Harden.

But here at Rockin’ Mama, a review will simply not suffice!  So, without further ado, I bring you the fabulously talented and beautiful Drew Barrymore as she graciously talks to me about her latest venture.

1.  I know you’ve been acting since you were a child.  What inspired you to direct?

I’ve wanted to direct since I was a child.  I love film.  I love that form of communication.  I waited until now because I wanted to be prepared to be a director and everything that entailed.

2.  I know you mentioned wanting to wait until you were ready.  Why did you choose this movie for your directorial debut?

I really responded to the mother daughter aspect of the story.  I found the relationship fascinating.  I related to a lot of  story and felt like I could make this film very personal.  It’s how I lived a lot of my life.  Things the characters wrestled with are things I wrestled with. For me, I tried to find a cohesive way to put all of these components together to tell the story….you have good days and bad days…some days you rock out with your friends…cry over a relationship…you learn something…you need to apologize for something.  You have to believe in yourself and find a place where you can express yourself…a place where that is empowering and not frowned upon. All of those things are things I have related to.

3.  I can definitely see those aspects weaved into the movie now that I’ve watched it.  You also have an acting role in the film.  How did you balance playing the role of Smashley Simpson while directing the movie?

It was challenging because [directing this film] was a 20 hour a day, seven day a week job for 2-3 years.  But I wanted to do it because of the camaraderie and friendship that develops out of training [for roller derby] and all the funny adventures together.  Everybody is in it together and I just think it’s a more energizing working environment.  I threw myself in there with everyone.

4.  I had read that you did your own stunts.  Can you tell me more about that?

Having done the Charlie’s Angels movies, doing my own stunts in the film was important to me.  It was predominantly us.  Audiences are very smart and keen and when they see the real person doing it,  you’re able to fall into [the movie] a lot easier.  I felt like there was a lot of authenticity.    I wanted to show off this thing I had learned to do.

5.  Is this just the beginning of your move into directing and will we see you continue to act?

I think so. I hope so. That’s the goal.

6.  Did you model your style of directing after anyone?

I wouldn’t say one person specifically.  I love, as an actor, when directors say to me try this or do that or surprise me.  It makes me feel good about my own natural instincts.  I just feel that is a good way to elaborate on a performance that feels really good.  That makes you feel great about what you do.

7.  What was your favorite part of making this film?

I loved seeing that at the end of the day it was going to be my heart out there and my sense of humor and values.  I was lucky enough to work with these talented people along the way to do it.

Thank you Ms. Barrymore, for the time you spent with me.  [Goodbyes]

It’s such a rare opportunity to sit down, one-on-one with such a talent as Ms. Barrymore.  I was honored that she took a bit of time out of her busy schedule to talk about her role in making this phenomenal film.  I hope you enjoyed hearing just a bit about her and her passion for this movie.  Whip It is available on DVD and Blu-Ray now.

Win It! I have FIVE copies of Whip It to give away!  Simply leave me a topic-related comment about Drew Barrymore or her movie.  It could even be a question.  As long as your comment is on topic, you’re entered to win!  Comments will close on February 22, 2010 at 11:59 PM PST.  One comment per person, please (unless you do the extra credit). US residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one.

Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

Follow me on Twitter AND tweet about the contest.

Subscribe to my feed via email or reader.

Blog about this giveaway. It doesn’t have to be a separate post. Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways.

Click on one of the very cute buttons below and digg, stumble, fav, etc. Just let me know what you did in the comments!

My friend Kim is giving away 3 copies!  Double your chances of winning by visiting her site!

I did not receive compensation for this post.  I received the DVD and had the honor of interviewing Ms. Barrymore.

Sesame Street: 40 Years of Sunny Days *Giveaway*

This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by! Congrats to Paula H, Amber and Bridget C!

Sunny Days…Ok…so I’ve been singing this with my little boy the past few days (giggle!).  I grew up watching Sesame Street.  In fact, my mother tells me that at the time, it’s really the only television show she’d let me watch.  My son loves watching the show and his favorite character is Elmo. My mother-in-law gave my son my husband’s stuffed Elmo from when he was a child.  My point is, Sesame Street has been around a long time (40 years to be exact) and a lot of history has been made.  It’s interesting to watch the same show we watched as children with my son.

On November 6, 2009, Sesame Street:  40 Years of Sunny Days will be released on DVD.  Since I haven’t seen it yet, here is a little more information from the site:

For 40 years, sunny days have swept the clouds away and inspired preschoolers to learn, grow and achieve their highest potential.  Relive the best-of-the-best when SESAME STREET: 40 YEARS OF SUNNY DAYS debuts as a two-disc DVD set November 10 from Vivendi Entertainment and Sesame Workshop, the non-profit educational organization behind Sesame Street. Premiering on November 10, 1969, Sesame Street is the longest running children’s series and “…arguably, the most important children’s program in the history of television” (Newsweek.com). Featuring nearly six hours of everyone’s favorite Sesame Street stories, songs, Muppets™ and celebrity segments, the SESAME STREET: 40 YEARS OF SUNNY DAYS collectible set spans the renowned show’s four decades, includes never-before-seen archival footage and a limited-edition hard covered commemorative book.

I am so excited about seeing this.  I have no idea if I’ll remember any of the episodes but it’s going to be fun reliving those memories.  Tomorrow is the release (did you happen to see Google yesterday and today?) and the two-disc set will be available for $29.93.

Win It! Two of you will win a copy of this DVD and one of you will win a copy of the DVD PLUS a copy of Sesame Street: A Celebration – 40 Years Of Life On The Street.  Simply leave me a comment with your favorite Sesame Street moment.  Comments will close on November 20, 2009 at 10 PM PST.  One comment per person, please (unless you do the extra credit). US residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one.

Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

Follow me on Twitter AND tweet about the contest.

Subscribe to my feed via email or reader.

Blog about this giveaway. It doesn’t have to be a separate post. Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways.

Click on one of the very cute buttons below and digg, stumble, fav, etc. Just let me know what you did in the comments!

Ice Age 3 Family Media Day

Ice Age 3:  Dawn of the Dinosaurs is coming out on DVD and and Blu-Ray this Tuesday, October 27th, and all three of us had a fun family day at Fox Studios last week to celebrate!  We’ve seen the first two, but haven’t quite gotten around to seeing the 3rd one so we’re very excited about the release.  Here is a little more information about the movie from the site:

In the coolest Ice Age adventure yet, Manny and the herd discover a lost world of ferociously funny dinosaurs, including a cranky T. rex who’s got a score to settle with Sid! Meanwhile, Scrat goes nuts over the beautiful Scratte, but is she trying to win his heart – or steal his acorn?

Ice Age 3: Dawn of the Dinosaurs features the voices of Ray Romano, John Leguizamo, and Queen Latifah (to name a few).  The three-disc combo pack will include a Blu-ray, DVD, and a digital copy and includes features such as an Ice Age digital story book maker, two special Scrat shorts, a how-to-draw Scrat tutorial and more (we had an opportunity to preview some of these features last week at the event).

The Three-Disc set will be available on October 27th for $39.99 or you can purchase the standard DVD for $29.98.  The Scrat Pack “Double DVD” will also be available for $34.98 and includes a ton of special features including three exclusive “Scrat” games.

After we got a “first look” at the new release, we had a chance to speak with Director Carlos Saldanha and ask questions pertaining to the event.  And Aracely and I had an opportunity to interview him personally (unfortunately because we’re in the theater it’s dark, but the questions and answers are excellent!) Check it out:

Next up…food, pictures with Scrat, and Halloween-themed fun…Ice Age style of course!  Check out our pictures from the event:

If you haven’t carved a pumpkin yet (we haven’t!), check out this cool Ice Age Pumpkin Carving Pattern (it doesn’t look terribly difficult):

And…does your child still need a costume?  What about a Scrat costume? 

Materials Needed:

* Squirrel pattern
* Sewing Machine
* Brown plush fabric
* Fake racoon tail
* Bunting
* Dark brown fabric
* Ball cap
* Bailing wire or dowels
* Hot glue
* Teeth
* Large fake eyes

Instructions:

Step 1: Visit a craft store either online or in person. You need to find a few items that are not always the norm in costume making. The fabric can be found at a shop like Joann Fabrics or even Michaels. At the craft store you need to look for a white sharp, pointed object that can be Scrat’s teeth. Another option is visiting a museum that sells fake teeth.

Step 2: To begin you will need to create the body of the squirrel following the pattern. Bunting can help you get the right form, as you will need a little padding in the tummy and rear section. The jump suit should include covering for the feet and arms.

Step 3: To the body of Scrat you will sew on the fake raccoon tail. Or you can make your own tail with faux fur. It is up to you and your budget.

Step 4: The hard part will be the head of Scrat. We have elected to make a hat style hood rather than a hood that will cover your whole face. Take the ball cap, and strip the bill down to the width of the nose. You will use the ball cap to help reinforce the long mouth and nose. From the ball cap use the dowels to form the thinning nose. Cover the entire hat in the brown fabric. (To attach the dowels use a hot glue gun). At the end of the mouth attach brown fabric for the nose. This should be the darker brown.

Step 5: Once the nose is in place you can attach the teeth you have found for the costume.

Step 6: The last step is creating ears and the eyes of Scrat. The eyes need to be very large and round, then the ears can sit behind that.

Holiday Gift Guide 2009: Little Spirit: Christmas In New York *Giveaway*

This giveaway is now closed.  Thanks for stopping by.  The winners are Baba, Susan L, and Kelly Ann T. Congrats!

One of the things I’ll be doing a LOT more of lately is spending time at home!  I’m getting further and further along and while I still have some events lined up, curling up on the couch with my husband and my son, a cup of tea and a good movie sounds very appealing! Genius Products and Curious Pictures just released a Little Spirit:  Christmas in New York, which looks adorable!  We haven’t sat down to watch it yet, but I wanted to give you a sneak peak!  Stay tuned for my review.

About the movie:

A young boy embarks on the holiday journey of a lifetime in the city that never sleeps in the charming animated movie Little Spirit: Christmas In New York.  Moving to a new house in a new city is never easy, but when Leo’s dog (and best friend) Romona is accidently lost in Central Park, Leo is determined to find his furry little friend in time for Christmas. Feeling lost and alone, a magical spirit takes him on an incredible adventure and Leo soon learns that this new city isn’t as scary as it seemed – and that the true meaning of Christmas may just be found in the people he meets along the way.

Check out a sneak peak here:

Little Spirit: Christmas in New York is available now and retails for $16.95.

Win It! Three of you will win a copy of Little Spirit: Christmas in New York.  Simply leave me a comment with your favorite thing to do during the holidays!  Comments will close on December 1, 2009 at 10 PM PST.  One comment per person, please (unless you do the extra credit). US residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one.

Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

Follow me on Twitter AND tweet about the contest.

Subscribe to my feed via email or reader.

Blog about this giveaway. It doesn’t have to be a separate post. Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways.

Click on one of the very cute buttons below and digg, stumble, fav, etc. Just let me know what you did in the comments!

For more fabulous Holiday Gift Ideas, visit The Mommy-Files

Bedtime With Elmo

This giveaway is now closed.  Thanks for stopping by.  The winners are Molly Capel, Ed Nemmers, and Nicole I.  Congrats!

I am the first to admit that I’m not an expert on sleep, particularly when it comes to children.  We co slept with my son until he was a year and a half and while he finally made it to his crib, on any given day or night you will find him curled up between my husband and I in our bed.  Maybe we can get a little help from Elmo!

Genius Products and Sesame Workshop just released Bedtime With Elmo! It’s bedtime on Sesame Street and instead of going to sleep, Elmo wants to play (I’m wondering if he and my little boy collaborated on this one).  Here is a little more information about this new release from the site:

It’s bedtime on Sesame Street! Just like all little kids, Elmo and Abby would rather make funny faces and sing silly songs than go to sleep. Luckily, Elmo’s dad Louis knows just how to deal with extra glasses of water and little monsters who are afraid of the dark. Parents will love the practical strategies Louis uses to get Elmo and Abby to go to bed, and children will love snuggling under the covers with this timeless DVD. Featuring the special extra of Andrea Bocelli singing “Time To Say Goodnight” to Elmo.

Do you have trouble getting your child to sleep?  Here are some bedtime tips!

-Establish a Consistent and Positive Bedtime Routine
Help your child transition to bed by having predictable activities that take place at the same time each night, such as going to the bathroom, brushing teeth, getting into pajamas and reading stories. Children can be comforted by routine and benefit if their bedtime schedule is followed as regularly as possible.

-Quiet Playtime
Help your child wind down from the day by getting him into pajamas earlier than usual and engaging in relaxing activities like reading, playing a quiet game, doing a puzzle, or drawing together. Give him extra long cuddles before putting him to bed!

-Sharing Special Moments
Talk to your child about her day before going to sleep. Ask her to choose a favorite part of the day and discuss why it was special. Encourage her to think of something that she is looking forward to doing tomorrow as she falls asleep.

-Bedtime Stories
Help your child choose a favorite book at bedtime. After reading the story, ask him what he thinks his favorite character might do to get ready for bed. Talk about ways his bedtime routines might be similar or different. Remind him that everyone needs a good night’s sleep to feel rested and energized in the morning!

-Glimmer of Light
Help your child feel safe when sleeping in the dark by placing a small night light in his room or hallway. You can also let him keep a small flashlight under his pillow to help him feel safe. Talk to him about how he is feeling and let him know that while it is okay to be scared, reassure him that there is nothing to be afraid of in the dark and you are always close by if he needs you.

-Sweet Dreams
Provide your child with a quiet, cozy and comfortable bedroom for her to sleep in. Your child should look forward to sleeping in her room and feel safe and secure. Allow her to have her favorite blanket or stuffed animal nearby for comfort when going to bed. You can also set up a CD player to play soft calming music or lullabies as she falls asleep.

Win It! Three of you will win a copy of Bedtime With Elmo on DVD!  Simply leave me a comment with a tip on how you get your children to go to sleep peacefully.  Comments will close on July 23, 2009 at 10 PM PST. One comment per person, please (unless you do the extra credit). US residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one.

Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

Add the “Spring In For Summer Fun” banner to your sidebar and leave me a comment (be sure to visit the main party post for more details on extra entries)

Follow me on Twitter AND tweet about the contest. Be sure to use the hashtag #SummerEvent

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Blog about this giveaway. It doesn’t have to be a separate post. Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways.

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