Royal/T’s latest exhibit is TAG You’re It, where visitors will experience art from “a child’s eye view.”  Their hope is that younger audiences will “see eye-to-eye” with art. Interestingly enough, children can play “Art Tag,” a game of hide and seek where the viewer looks for things hidden within the pieces by the artist. Dining in the establishment is quite an experience. The food is Japanese inspired with a hint of French influence.  Here are just a few of the photos I snagged:.

What have you “captured” this week?  Share your photos below!

Photo Credit: Rockin’ Mama

Shot with an iPhone, filtered with Instagram and PicPlz.

It’s the third highest grossing film series of all time…a worldwide phenomenon…and now…the force is back! On display at Discovery Science Center. Who would have thought there was an actual science to this fictional universe with it’s humanoid robots, landspeeders, and X-Wing Fighters? Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination is the first exhibition to display costumes and props from all six Star Wars films with real-world technologies. And the verdict is? It’s out of this world!

Through April 15th, families can see the exhibit at Orange County’s leading venue for hands-on scientific discovery, education, and fun.  Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination explores the fantasy technologies depicted in the series, the science behind them, and current research that may one day lead to real-life versions of those technologies.

The exhibit is divided into two areas: Getting Around, which focuses on transportation in the film series as well as new and future modes of travel, and Robots and People, which explores the relationship between robots and humans both on screen and in the real world.

This is an exhibit that truly has an appeal for children and adults. Children will enjoy climbing into a hovercraft and levitating for a few moments, building and creating a levitating vehicle with magnets and LEGOs, designing facial expressions for a an emotional robot, and more.  Fans will particularly enjoy the authentic props and costumes on display.  And speaking of fans, Discovery Science Center will host a series of fun-filled, themed Fan Days. The first one will take place this Saturday, January 14th from 11 am to 3 pm and will feature the opportunity to meet the Clone Troopers from the Cartoon Network’s popular series Star Wars: The Clone Wars, spin the prize wheel, and pose in front of a Clone Wars green screen backdrop for a souvenir photo.  Bonus: Children between the ages of 3 and 14 will get into the museum for free if they wear a Star Wars costume on any Fan Day (with a paid adult admission).

For additional information on ticketing, upcoming Fan Days, and more, just visit Discovery Science Center.

No compensation was received for this post. Media tickets to the exhibit were provided which helped facilitate this review.

Today, Chipwrecked sets sail in theaters nationwide. As one of the only “G” rated films in theaters this holiday season, parents can be assured that the film is entertaining, meaningful, and most importantly free from inappropriate content.

Four years ago, the singing sensation Alvin, Simon and Theodore were re-introduced to audiences in their first full-length live action/CGI motion picture.  The film was so successful, a “Squeakquel” was born, just two years after the debut of Alvin and the Chipmunks.  It was in this second film that The Chipettes, the chipmunks singing female counterpart, were introduced.  I can remember a time when the only film my son wanted to watch was the Chipmunks.  This season, the Chipmunks will embark on an adventure so grand, you’ll have to see it to believe it.

A luxury cruise ship…a tropical and largely deserted island…and a group of singing chipmunks all converge into a film that will have parents and children giggling with delight. While attempting to relax and unwind from the busyness of life en route to the International Music Awards, father figure Dave finds himself once again entangled in the antics of Alvin, who’s simple aspiration to “fly” lands him and the rest of the Chipmunks “chipwrecked” on a deserted island. What ensues is a somewhat chaotic, action-filled quest to find their way home.  The comedic irony of the situation is that these once “wild” uncivilized chipmunks cannot figure out how to survive in the wild.  The plot, though simple, still manages to infuse warmth and heart, depicted in the relationship between Dave and the Chipmunks.

The film is, at times, laugh-out-loud funny with it’s modern-day references to Cast Away and “Critter” (aka Twitter). What I appreciate about the “grown-up” one-liners strategically placed throughout the film is the filmmakers recognition that regardless of the movie’s target audience (children), there must be an appeal to the adults who will be sitting with their children through the film. At just under 90 minutes, the movie proceeds at an appropriate pace so as not bore audiences.

The tie that binds the film together is the music, which is an integral component of each film.  The Chipmunks and Chipettes perform popular songs from artists like The Go-Go’s, Lady Gaga, and Rihanna.

Chipwrecked is now playing in theaters nationwide.

No compensation was received for this post. I attended a press junket for the film and meals/accommodations were provided.

Shine from Yahoo just revealed their latest Get It Guide, perfectly timed for the holiday season:  Hottest Holiday Toys.  The guide features those topics women are searching for and discussing.  Surprisingly, I only recognize one…LeapFrog’s LeapPad Explorer, a tot-sized tablet that combines education and entertainment.  This techie toy has already been a hit in our home and I’m not surprised that it made the list (or that it’s been sold out in a number of stores nationwide).

Other toys that topped the list include Mattel’s Monster High Dolls, which are geared towards teens and tweens, Air Swimmers, which integrate helium and a remote control for life-like motions, and Lego Ninjago, the result of meshing Legos and ninjas.  Be sure to check out real reviews from real women on the hottest toys for 2011 on Shine!

What toys are topping your child’s list this holiday season?

Disclosure: I am a Get It Guide Insider and receive exclusive content and/or products.  All opinions remain my own.

Toys, toys and more toys! Newpapers, television ads, and stores are filled with educational, electronic, and even eccentric toys, hoping to make it home to a special boy or girl. I peruse the ads and glean wisdom from my children, hoping to pick out a few that they’ll play with beyond Christmas morning. Who better to ask than The Toy Guy? Christopher Byrne, who has become renowned for his education and experience as an expert in kid trends and all aspects (from product development to marketing) of the toy industry, spoke to a few local moms about what he thinks will be some of the hottest toys this season.

For Girls:

Crayola Model Magic Jewelry Boutique

Design and create accessories like bracelets, necklaces and earrings by using the Jewelry Spinner which turns Model Magic into swirled beads.

Why I like it? It allows for children to exercise their creativity, it’s relatively easy to use, and allows for a no-mess, hassle-less clean-up. Bonus: The jewelry looks fabulous!

Lalaloopsy Silly Hair Doll

These modern-ish rag dolls each posses “silly” hair that curls, twists, and straightens. She also comes with a pet, who’s tail, of course, matches her hair.

Why I like it? Another toy that allows for creativity and pretend play.

The downside? Her head is very heavy, making her unsuitable for younger tots.

For Boys:

Redakai

This collectible card game features 3D animation in every card.

Why I like it? This is a modern take on the traditional gard game and I like how it encourages friendly competition and use of strategy. Bonus: No batteries required.

DaGeDar

These hypercharged ball bearings feature bright colors and graphics that are cool-ish/scary-ish. Collect them and race them on the track sets which are also available.

Why I like them? The whole concept of racing balls is just cool…and my four and a half year old will love DaGeDar for that reason.

The downside? The “balls” are small…as in my daughter would likely want to put them in her mouth. So be mindful if you have children under three in the household.

For Both:

InnoTab Learning Tablet

This kid-approved tablet combines interactive animated e-books, tilt-sensor learning games, creative activities, and a host of apps into a tech toy that’s sure to be a hot seller this season.

Why I like it? Endless hours of learning fun. What parent wouldn’t like that? : )

PaperJamz Pro Microphone

Sing like a start with this new microphone that comes loaded with 2 songs and features a variety of voice effects.

Why I like it? It allows children the opportunity to explore their musical side.

Kid-Tough See Yourself Camera

This working digital camera makes it easy for even the smallest of tots to take pictures of themselves, their friends, or their environment. Bonus: It shoots video!

Why I like it? My son can drop it a hundred times and it won’t break. Ever. Maybe he’ll take after mommy and grandpa and develop a passion for photography.

Hundreds of toys are vying for your child’s attention this season. For toy recommendations and reviews, be sure to visit Time to Play.

Win It! I have a $25 Kmart gift card to giveaway to one of you! Simply leave me a comment with your favorite toy recommendation from The Toy Guy. Comments will close on December 24th at 11:59 PM PST.

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 the following (or something like it) “ I just entered a #giveaway to win a Kmart gift card @rockinmama http://tinyurl.com/7ultzat #thetoyguy”

Rockin’ Mama Facebook fans automatically receive an extra entry

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

No compensation was received for this post. Products/Gift Card for review/giveaway provided.

On December 2nd, celebrate the holiday season with The Smurfs, will will be released on Blu-ray 3D and DVD as well as a 3-Disc Holiday Blu-ray/DVD Gift Set.  The film, which is adorable, finds the Smurfs in the middle of Central Park when the evil wizard chases them out of their village.  Follow their adventures as they find their way back to the village before the evil wizard catches them.

Along with the DVD/Blu-ray’s special features, The Smurfs will offer UltraViolet, a technology which enables Blu-ray owners to add the film to their free cloud-based UltraViolet Digital Accounts.  Once added, the film can then be streamed or downloaded anywhere access to the internet is available.  The Blu-ray version will also include Smurf-O-Vision: Second Screen Experience, where the Smurfs literally take over the television, iPad, iPhone or iPod Touch.  During the film, the Smurfs will appear on-screen to sing and dance.   The two free apps, Smurfs’ Village and Smurf-O-Vision, will have adults and children popping bubbles, dropping smurfberries, and much more.  Additionally, the free app GoldRun allows you to take pictures with your favorite Smurf characters. Each week, a new Smurf will appear so be sure to capture those memories!

In addition to all of the Smurftastic things happening this holiday season, Sony Pictures will release The Smurfs: A Christmas Carol on DVD.  The brand new mini-movie is exclusive to the Holiday Gift Set and features a Smurftastic take on the holiday classic.  I actually enjoyed this film more than I expected and am excited to share it with my son.  Combining CGI animation and traditional animation, the film depicts the story of Grouchy Smurf who’s Bah Humbug attitude towards Christmas is weighing The Smurfs down.  When he receives a visit from the Smurfs of Christmas Past, Present, and Future, he begins to see just how his behavior is affecting each and every Smurf in the village.  The film offers some important lessons about the spirit of Christmas that I believe my son is ready to begin exploring.

For more information, visit the website.

No compensation was received for this post. I attended a press event which helped facilitate this review.

Last week, I shopped online at Cookie’s Kids for the very first time.  I’m working with the company and Collective Bias to not only showcase all they have to offer for kids, but to highlight their amazing prices on brand name clothing.  My goal for my online shopping haul was to see how many outfits, accesories, etc. I could purchase for $50. I immediately headed to the site’s clearance section which boasts savings of up to 90% off.  The site is actually set up well for searching and sorts the clearance section into boys and girls fashion, boys and girls uniforms, infants and toys.

I first checked out the section for girls. This section has over 20 pages so I decided to sort by size and then by price although you can also sort by “most popular” or “newest.”  Prices for items in this category start at just $3.99 so you could likely get quite a few items if you found the appropriate size. I finally decided on a pair of Adidas Shimmer Stripe Rolled Waist Active Pants in pink ($9.99), a Baby Phat Rinestone Tiger T-Shirt in Vanilla ($9.99), and a Levi’s Heart Bloom T-Shirt in Pink ($5.99) for my daugther. Because I wasn’t looking for anything specific, I settled on the two shirts that can be paired with jeans and the active pants that she can wear for play and be comfy. All three of the brands are familiar to me and I was quite impressed with how discounted the items were, given the fact when I received them, they were in perfect condition.

Next, I shopped with my son for some items he wanted and needed.  I allowed him to look at some of their character tees and he picked out two:  A Disney Cars 1st to the Finish T-Shirt in Blue ($3.99 and a SpongeBob Squarepants Yo Ho Ho T-Shirt in Gray ($3.99).  The site actually has quite a few character tees which are cute and affordable.  Unfortunately, there was a bit of an inventory problem and at present, I’m still waiting for shipment on the SpongeBob shirt.  At the time I ordered, the Cars shirt was out of stock but the site had not been updated so we won’t be receiving that shirt (Cookie’s Kids did refund that item).

After I allowed my son to pick out what he wanted, I began searching for jeans.  He either wears out or outgrows his jeans so I am always looking for sales on boy’s jeans. I found a pair of Coney Isle Respect Jeans in light blue for $9.99 which I thought was a great deal and added them to my cart.  Jeans are a staple for my son so I’m definitely planning on purchasing a few more pairs in larger sizes so he can wear them over the next few months.  I completed the outfit with an Enyce Blake Long Sleeve Henley Shirt in Blue ($6.99).

The total price of my shopping haul was $50.93.  I didn’t pay tax or shipping and I thought this was incredible for 7 quailty kid’s items.  Traditionally I would have searched for a coupon code but I figured since each item was on clearance I likely wouldn’t be able to find one that would work.  I know the original prices of some of the items and figured that the total cost would have been at least $120 if not more.

Despite the inventory issue, our shopping experience was quite pleasant.  I was kept updated via email regarding the status of my order and I also received a phone call from customer service explaining the situation. Regarding the site itself, I found the prices to be very competitive and the selection to be quite expansive.  The clothing is hip and modern and numerous well known brands are represented.  Because Cookie’s Kids is a large children’s department store, I might expect to have a bit of difficulty searching for exactly what I’m looking for online.  However, the site is so well set up so that I was able to search by category, brand, color, size, and price.

Here are some photos of my kids sporting their new Cookie’s Kids apparel:

You can view my entire shopping experience here.

“This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias. #CBias #LuvCookies

This Fall, the sibling duo are going on a nationwide tour with a stop in Long Beach at the Terrace Theater (Long Beach Performing Arts Center). The 70-minute live theatrical production features exquisite costuming, rich, colorful sets, and original songs by Juno Award winning songwriter, Norman Foote.

Max and Ruby are planning a surprise party for someone special…but it’s a mystery!  As is the case with any party, there are many things that have to be done before the grand event.  And as is characteristic of the sibling duo, neither want quite the same thing so their plans collide with hilarious results.

Max & Ruby: Bunny Party will perform on November 20th at 1pm and tickets are currently on sale. You can visit the website for a complete list of nationwide tour dates.

Terrace Theater – Long Beach Convention Center and Entertainment
300 E Ocean BL, Long Beach, CA 90802
Sun, Nov 20, 2011 01:00 PM
Tickets: $20-$65

No compensation was received for this post. Media tickets provided.

I’ve planned enough birthday parties to know that during this particular season of my life, I needed a venue that would pretty much do everything for me. After spending some time scoping out the best places to have a kid’s birthday party in Orange County, my son finally settled on Scooter’s Jungle.  The venue, which features ginormous, custom-made inflatable jumpers, encourages parents and children to jump, climb, slide, dance and sing.  A wide variety of package options available, which can include food and drinks, drinks, decor, and more.  After my son settled on a Toy Story theme for his birthday, I decided that I would do all of decorations myself.

If you’ve never checked out the party section at Walmart, it’s been expanded to include a variety of themes featuring your child’s favorite characters.  Whether you just need a few things or everything, Walmart is committed to offering the lowest prices on party supplies.  And if your party isn’t necessarily themed by character, check out the 97 cent section which includes plates, napkins, tablecloths, favors, balloons, banners, invites, greeting cards, and much more.

Here is everything I was able to purchase for my son’s birthday party:

Toy Story Invitations (3 packages)

Toy Story Happy Birthday card

Toy Story Plates (dinner and cake) (3 packages each)

Toy Story Table Covers (3)

Toy Story Cups (3 packages)

Toy Story Napkins (2 packages)

Red and Green Cutlery (3 packages total)

Army Men (2 packages)

Toy Story Treat Bags (3 packages)

“4″ Candle

Toy Story Balloon Centerpieces (2)

Toy Story Banner

Gift Bag Components:

GoGo Applesauce (5)

Bubbles (3 packages)

Disney Pencil Sets (15)

Disney Stickers (3 packages)

The grand total for our party without tax was $93.58!  I was so impressed with how much we were able to purchase, particularly given the fact that most of the items we purchased were Toy Story-themed.

Overall, our party was a success and my son and his friends had an incredible time (Scooter’s Jungle truly deserves it’s very own post…it’s that awesome!).

Here are a few photos from the big day:

While Walmart.com offers a variety of party supplies, I highly recommend checking out the selection in person.  I found a ton of items on sale/clearance which was particularly useful for filling the gift bags.

Disclosure: I participate in the Walmart Moms program and am compensated for my time and honest opinions.

The goal of the hub is to “entertain, enlighten, empower, and educate” children and families through their award-winning children’s educational programming. Some of the content aired includes animated and live-action series, game shows, and family movies.

Since today is Halloween, I thought I’d highlight some of the spooky and not-so-spooky themed programming your children may be interested in.

For younger tots like my own children, The Adventures of Chuck & Friends and My Little Pony Friendship is Magic are more suitable.  Each has it’s own Halloween-themed episode.

Older children might be more interested in The Hub’s spookier programming which includes the following Halloween-themed episodes:  R.L. Stine’s The Haunting Hour: The Series and Goosebumps.

Here are some fun photos from the Haunted Hub!

It's My Little Pony!

The biggest balloon either of us have ever seen!

For the entire list of programming, visit The Hub!

No compensation was received for this post. We attended a media preview of The Hub’s Halloween programming.