11 Best Cradle Cap Brushes For Babies And Toddlers That Moms Swear By

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The best cradle cap brushes are designed to gently exfoliate Baby’s delicate scalp. But first, what is cradle cap? Turns out, it can often come out of nowhere. Suddenly, your newborn baby’s hair will get a little flaky, and it may cause you concern at first. But the truth is, cradle cap is very common. It also doesn’t hurt your newborn, and it goes away fairly quickly. When my daughter, who’s almost four, was just a newborn, she had a pretty bad case. Pair that with baby acne , and it seemed like she was “zero going on 13.” Only with a newborn do you realize how insane the human body can be — both yours and theirs.

While cradle cap often solves itself within a few months, you may wonder what you can do to help speed up the process, and there is a solution. At the risk of sounding weird, we had a brush that helped loosen and slowly remove the flakes, and the activity itself was actually somewhat calming — it was like she was getting a soothing scalp massage. The grooming routine was also a way to feel like I was bonding with my baby in a new way. But also important? The method worked. It didn’t clear the condition up overnight, but it very visibly got better day by day. So the moral of the story, Moms and Dads, is to add a cradle cap brush to your Amazon baby registry, right alongside a set of baby-safe nail clippers, moisturizing lotion, and ear cleaners. (And side note: Don’t forget that baby bouncer that’s sure to save your sanity.)

Ahead, the cradle cap brushes that parents rave about, as well as hair brushes for toddlers to help keep the flakes at bay.

Best Cradle Cap Brushes

Scalp Scrubbie 3-pack Cradle Cap Brush

This brush looks like it’s best used around bath time. So if you’re gently trying to remove some flakes with water involved, this would be a good choice. It also comes in a pack of three, because as a mom with a newborn, you’ll lose track of everything. Also, having three will ensure that one’s always clean. ” I purchased these on recommendation from a friend, and they have worked magic for us,” writes mom and Amazon Reviewer Kay. “I recommend using one about four or five times, and then discarding for another sponge.”

$8.99 AT AMAZON

OCCObaby 3-Piece Wooden Baby Hair Brush and Comb Set for Newborns and Toddlers

This set of brushes is awesome because it comes with two types and can also be used for toddlers. The soft hairbrush, made with goat hair, is a perfect way to soothe a baby. This brush set even claims to help stop cradle cap in its tracks by evenly distributing oils throughout your newborn’s scalp. The comb that’s included is another great way to softly remove flakes that may appear.

$18.80 AT AMAZON

Safety 1st Cradle Cap Brush and Comb

Safety 1st is a trusted brand for parents. Their specific cradle cap brush is one of the many thought-out products they sell. Not only does this one allow you to massage the scales loose, but it also comes with a comb to help remove them. “It’s amazing and gross and wonderful,” admits Amazon Reviewer and mom ZMomUtah, who isn’t afraid to tell it like it is. “And my babe doesn’t even flinch when I spend 10 minutes clearing his scalp of all the goo (that I didn’t even know was on there in the first place!!). It seems to be soothing to him.” Also? You simply can’t beat the price.

$4.99 AT AMAZON

The 3-Step Cradle Cap System by Fridababy

FridaBaby, the company that makes the alarming snot-sucker device that parents either swear by or feel repulsed by, also has a solution for cradle cap — and it’s much less terrifying. The system is designed to lather, loosen, and lift the flakes right of the scalp. 85% of the people who bought it on Amazon have given it an impressive five stars, meaning it’s become a big part of their baby hygiene routine.

$14.88 AT AMAZON

ScrubBEE Silicone Hand, Body, Face Scrubber

ScrubBEE makes a very cute infant brush that can also help you manage cradle cap. It’s very safe — it’s free of BPA and PVC, and also easy to hang so that it can stay dry outside of the bath tub. “This is such a simple idea but well-executed!” writes Amazon Reviewer RavyWedding. “The bee hive handle is short and wide enough for little hands and it lathers up body wash nicely.”

$9.99 AT AMAZON

Innobaby Bathin Smart Baby Bath Silicone Cradle Cap Brush

This is adorable cradle cap brush for infants will help you gently massage the flakes away. With over 3, 000 micro bristles, you can use the suction cup on the back to maneuver the brush and stick it to the wall if you use it during bath time. And, it’s not just for babies — Mom can use it as a gentle exfoliator, as well.

$5.99 AT AMAZON

Best Baby & Toddler Hair Brushes

Crave Naturals Glide Thru Detangling Brush for Adults & Kids

A brush doesn’t necessarily need to be geared towards cradle cap to help the issue. Sometimes, just a gentle brush will help — and, it’s something they can continue to use as they grow older. This brush is very gentle, and it’s one that adults can also use. “I’m a single dad of a 6-year-old girl and combing her hair is the hardest part of taking care of her,” writes dad and Amazon Reviewer Nguyen P. “She gets really bad knots in her hair. This brush is the only thing that has ever worked.”

$11.88 AT AMAZON

Wet Brush Multi-Pack Squirt Detangler Hair Brush with Soft IntelliFlex Bristles

My daughter currently has three of these, and as a parent, I admit I’ve stolen them on occasion. I might not use a brush like this immediately on a newborn, but it’s a great brush for toddlers and toddler hair care. It’s helped keep her hair strong and tangle-free. And other moms agree — it currently has an 85% five-star rating on Amazon.

$12.99 AT AMAZON

Disney Baby Minnie Hair Brush and Wide Tooth Comb Set

Your toddler may fall in love with this Minnie Mouse haircare set, which includes a brush and comb. Babies might not get into the character recognition just yet, but this may be all you need to inspire a young child to practice better grooming. Plus, who doesn’t love Minnie? Amazon reviewer Laura found that the soft bristles on the brush would also work for babies, even though she bought it for her 2-year-old granddaughter. “She isn’t fond of getting her long hair combed or brushed so I thought this set might encourage her,” she said. “The brush is very soft like a baby brush but for my purpose it was perfect.”

$4.97 AT AMAZON

Conair Fusion Hair Brush & Comb

Conair is a name you’ve likely grown up with. This brush and comb set, if used gently, would be great at removing cradle cap. However, it’s versatile for any child to use. This particular set comes with a cushion brush and a wide tooth comb.

$4.77 AT AMAZON

TELETIES Beginner Bundle

The TELETIES Beginner Bundle does double duty: First, it comes with a wide-tooth brush with a small enough handle for younger kiddos to use themselves (but big enough for you to use, too). Second, it includes three TELETIES, one in each size — tiny, small, and large — to keep delicate toddler hair comfortably out of the way. There’s also a handy carrying case to keep all these hair essentials in one place. P.S. you’ll probably want to stock up on more tiny ties.

$25 AT TELETIES

 

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The Best Air Fryer Cookbooks For All Levels And Cravings

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Looking for good air fryer cookbook? Sure, you can absolutely use your air fryer exclusively to give frozen French fries and chicken nuggets that intoxicating fast food restaurant-quality crunch. (Zero judgment, honestly.) But get your hands on some of the best air fryer cookbooks and you can seriously level up how you use that kitchen gadget du jour to make a much greater range of tasty, lighter fare. Plus, it makes for a good gift for a boyfriend (or girlfriend) or friend/family member who’s gotten really into air frying. People who just purchased an air fryer *cannot* get enough of air fryer recipes.

Whether you’re an air-frying pro or a newbie to the game, you can use these recipes to elevate and diversify your cleaner recipes. These books contain hundreds of options for tasty dishes to serve at any time of day, from snacks to mains to desserts.

Plus, we’ve got on our list niche options for vegetarians, Keto diet devotees, and other specialized eaters. So snag a book or two, preheat your fryer — and make that impressive little oven earn every inch of the precious countertop real estate it nabbed when it edged out your Instant Pot.

Best Air Fryer Cookbooks

Mediterranean Air Fryer: 95 Healthy Recipes to Fry, Roast, Bake, and Grill

Hey, not everything that goes into your air fryer has to be as American as fried god-knows-what at the county fair: Use yours to make healthy international foods, too. The Mediterranean Air Fryer will let you enjoy the culinary aspect of that vacation you can’t take right now (uh, kind of), with its European coastline-inspired dishes. Plus, the Mediterranean diet maintains its popularity given its simplicity, sustainability, and doc-recommended healthy approach — so you can feel good about devouring those killer kabobs.

$9.99 AT AMAZON

The Essential Air Fryer Cookbook for Two: Perfectly Portioned Recipes for Healthier Fried Favorites

If you’re cooking for two, this is the book you need to whip up perfectly portioned recipes worthy of a baller date night in. The book includes more than 100 recipes designed to be made in 30 minutes or less using ingredients you already have in the kitchen. If you never thought you’d drool over chocolate chip zucchini… think again.

$11.79 AT AMAZON

The Essential Vegetarian Air Fryer Cookbook

In my experience as a long-time vegetarian and recent air fryer covert, the gadget is an incredible tool for plant-based eaters: It turns everyday veggies into ultra-crispy and indulgent-tasting noms. This book focuses on vegetarian recipes, with 75 in all. You might even convert a non-veg in your house with these tasty ideas, which include plenty of comfort-food treats — think apple fritters and buffalo cauliflower bites.

$16.99 AT AMAZON

The Skinnytaste Air Fryer Cookbook

Much as we’d love to think that everything that goes into our air fryers comes out magically low-cal and healthy, that’s not necessarily the case. But it is with this cookbook, from New York Times bestselling author Gina Homolka, which focuses exclusively on healthy, flavorful recipes. The Skinnytaste Air Fryer Cookbook converts traditionally fried foods — spring rolls, crispy shrimp, chicken tenders — into much lighter fare. It’s also got more inventive recipes like Korean pork lettuce wraps, and sugar and spice acorn squash. Many dishes are keto-friendly, vegetarian, or gluten free.

$9.99 AT AMAZON

Air Fryer Cookbooks for Beginners

The Essential Air Fryer Cookbook for Beginners

The Essential Air Fryer Cookbook for Beginners is — well, just what the title states. It’s the book you need if you’re new not just to the air fryer, but even if you’re a kitchen newbie in general. It’s got 75 easy and quick-to-make recipes — think cinnamon rolls and sweet potato fries — for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

$14.51 AT AMAZON

The Complete Air Fryer Cookbook for Beginners On A Budget

If you just got an air fryer and have no idea where to begin, you’ll find plenty of ideas to get you started in this cookbook for beginners featuring a full 600 recipes. The enormous range of sections include appetizers, veggies and sides, poultry, beef, pork, seafood, and more — and all are straightforward and simple, using affordable ingredients you can find most anywhere. Bonus: This budget-focused book is budget priced itself.

$8.98 AT AMAZON

Keto Air Fryer Cookbooks

Keto Air Fryer: 100+ Delicious Low-Carb Recipes to Heal Your Body & Help You Lose Weight

If you love a food fad, you’ll love this cookbook that combines two of the biggies: the Keto diet and the air fryer. It’s packed with low-carb and Keto-compliant recipes to make in your favorite countertop oven. Think breakfast pizza, crunchy-top mac and cheese, caramelized broccoli, and pumpkin cheesecake hand pies.

$22.49 AT AMAZON

The I Love My Air Fryer Keto Diet 5-Ingredient Recipe Book

Ain’t no mommy got the time for six ingredients: Nope, this Keto air fryer cookbook includes 175 recipes that use only five (or even fewer) ingredients apiece. The idea is to get food on the table quickly, affordably, and compliant with your diet. No fuss, no mess.

$13.71 AT AMAZON

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This Popular SAD Light Therapy Lamp Helps Me Feel Less Bummed Out — And It’s 44% Off Right Now

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To be totally honest with you, I love cloudy, miserable weather. I love staying inside (not that I have a choice these days), wearing an oversized sweater with some cozy socks, and lighting a candle while I read or binge-watch Schitt’s Creek or something cute with my fave Disney characters. Gloomy weather is very much my journey, but after a few consecutive days of cloudiness, I do find myself inexplicably bummed out and weepy over the most random things (the thought of my dog feeling lonely, or the first ten minutes of the new Wonder Woman movie). It was recommended that I try a light therapy lamp to shake off these mean reds.

TaoTronics Light Therapy Lamp

$22.37 AT AMAZON

44% off

If you grapple with seasonal or winter depression (also called Seasonal Affective Disorder), it might be due to the fact that you’re not exposed to as much sunlight. You meet feel drained more easily, or just straight up lethargic. Getting up in the morning might be almost impossible some days, and not just because it’s cold in your house. A light therapy lamp won’t necessarily cure your winter depression, but it could help with the symptoms, according to Mayo Clinic. The light mimics real sunlight and supposedly tricks your brain into thinking you’re getting exposure.

One that seems to do the trick for me and my emo brain is TaoTronics’ light therapy lamp (which has over 3,000 5-star reviews), which you just place wherever you spend a lot of time, like your office desk, or maybe in living room. The cool thing about light therapy lamps is that they’re UV-free, so you don’t have to worry about dangerous UV rays, or having to wear sunscreen (although it’s still recommended you do every day). Other features include: A 30-minute timer, a dimmer switch, and rotatable stand. You only need to use the lamp for a short period of time every day to see results.

“I have done extensive research on the benefits of natural light for improved mood, focus, and productivity. Since using this lamp, I’ve found a huge increase in all three of those on the days that are most overcast as well as late at night when the sun goes down. I love that the light level can be adjusted and a 30-minute timer can be set as well. This is a must-have for anyone who works daily indoors,” one reviewer says.

The post This Popular SAD Light Therapy Lamp Helps Me Feel Less Bummed Out — And It’s 44% Off Right Now appeared first on Scary Mommy.

The Best Discreet Sex Toys When You Want To Lowkey Get Off

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Let’s face it, discreet sex toys are where it’s at. Whether you have a large tickle truck with lots of variety, or you have one vibrator that’s become your favorite way to spend ten minutes in bed (or an entire Friday night), you don’t want something that screams, “I am about to go masturbate now!”

And, if you are traveling, moving, have kids or a roommate, you want to be able to store your sex toys in a secret place and not worry that they’re going to sound like an airplane flying overhead while you are getting your rocks off after you think everyone is fast asleep. We can like our sex toys and want to grow our collection, and want discreet sex toys we can depend on to give us a good time in private.

So, cozy up with your favorite blanket and click “add to cart” in confidence because we are bringing your the best discreet sex toys that will never leave you hanging (or your friends and family wondering if you are pushing a vacuum around under the covers)

The Best Discreet Sex Toys

Le Reve Mini Bullet Vibrator

The Le Reve Mini Bullet is not only easy to use (there’s one button that does the job), it’s whisper quiet which allows you to have a relaxing experience and peace of mind no one can hear what’s actually going on behind closed doors. Its small, sleek style and design allows you to tuck it away in your purse, behind your socks, or in your nightstand drawer with out taking up a bunch of room. This little number is also waterproof and is easy to hide in your hand or robe pocket as you slip off the the “shower” or for a “potty break.” The best part is the Le Reve offers sexy G-spot and P-spot stimulation which will leave you feeling satisfied. (And definitely wanting more.)

$25.00 AT ELLA PARADIS

FingO's Screaming O

I must confess: the Finger O is the first (and best) vibrator I’ve owned. It’s so small you can literally hide it in your M&M bag if you need to, yet let me tell you, it produces the best orgasms. I love control you have over it because it fits right on your finger and there’s no large shaft you have to fumble with. The control button is so easy to operate, you can do it with you eyes closed so you don’t have to stop what you are doing to get the speed right. It’s really quiet and I keep mine right in my makeup bag (in its own compartment and pouch) when I travel. It’s waterproof, which is a must when you are trying to buzz off in private, so feel free to keep it next to your bubble bath and face masks.

$19.00 AT ELLA PARADIS

Happy Rabbit Mini Vibrator

Rabbits have been a long time favorite with many people who use a vibrator. And this mini version is no different. Its shape is perfect for G-spot and P-spot stimulation as well as penetration. You can use the little bunny ears, or not. And its size makes it easy to handle as you explore the different speeds it offers. The rabbit mini is six inches long and stays charged for 150 minutes which makes it the perfect toy to introduce into sexy time with your partner without being intimidating for either of you.

$59.99 AT GOOD VIBRATIONS

Kyss Rechargeable Lipstick Vibrator

This could easily be one of your lipsticks, but surprise! It’s a vibrator. It includes three vibration patterns and seven pulsation patterns, and users love the angled lipstick head that give you control over how much pressure you want to put on your clit.

$35 AT GOOD VIBRATIONS

Womanizer Liberty

Every woman or person with a vagina must own a Womanizer. It simulates oral sex, is super duper quiet and is great for clitoral stimulation with its unique air technology and fits right in the palm of your hand. Another bonus: it’s great to use on your nipples during sexy time with your partner, or while you are using another vibrator on yourself. It fits perfectly in your hand which makes it easy to handle, and it can be used making direct or non-direct contact. It has six levels on intensity, is waterproof, and comes with different sizes of body-safe suction cups to get the perfect fit.

$99.00 AT GOOD VIBRATIONS

Vibe

The Vibe is know for being discreet. It’s easy to use, has three speeds and comes with a nice canvas pouch for storing. The Vibe is also latex and phthalate-free for those with allergies.

$45.00 AT MAUDE

Oil no.0

Sex toys don’t have to vibrate or be recharged. Something as simple as a nice massage oil, like Maude’s Oil No. 0 can be just as powerful as introducing a toy into the bedroom, or pleasuring yourself. Just because you are without a partner, or masturbating solo doesn’t mean you don’t crave foreplay. This massage oil can relax and get you in the mood while doing something nice for your skin. It’s made of natural oils we crave like Jojoba, coconut, and castor and will leave you feeling hydrated and taken care of. As a bonus, it can also be used as a bath oil to accompany your favorite vibrator.

$35.00 Oil no.0

Wearable Panty Vibrator

There’s nothing like a vibrator that fits right into your undergarments. The panty vibrator from Easy Joy can be an exciting way to spice up your sex life. No one will even know you are wearing it if you choose to take it out on the town for a date night. And, if cleaning, drinking a glass of wine, and getting a bit of stimulation is your jam, this little beauty has got you covered. It’s controlled by a wireless remote which you can do yourself when you are alone, have your lover watch you please yourself, or you can hand the reins of to them and they can take it for a test drive while you reap all the benefits.

$29.99 AT AMAZON

Mini Wand

The Yetrun Mini Wand is just over an inch long. You can’t get more discreet than that if you tried. It has a 4.5-star rating on Amazon and comes with a two-year warranty so you can be sure to get your dose of pleasure for years to come. It’s not only discreet, it offers big pleasure with its super soft design that will literally massage you to ‘O’ town.

$26.99 AT AMAZON

Lube

Whether you are trying to be discreet with your sex toy collection or not, you can’t skimp on the lube. Lube Life is a best-seller on Amazon and singles and couples alike love the product. It’s affordable, has almost 60,000 reviews with an average of 4.5 stars. It’s water-based and toy friendly.

$8.00 AT AMAZON

Couples Game

A sex toy can be in the form of a game. If you are looking to spice things up with your partner and make things a bit exciting, why not get this Date Night Box Set from Artagia. It just might be the gateway to using that couple’s vibrator you’ve been dying to try out.

$24.50 AT AMAZON

Waterproof G-Spot Stimulator

This stimulator offers double the pleasure. It’s great for your nipples as well as getting your G-spot going. It’s cordless, ultra quiet, and lasts for up to two hours of pleasure time. Its unique egg-like shape will keep your secret safe.

$27.82 AT AMAZON

C Ring

The Poseidon C Ring is a little piece of penis jewelry that can make your love making sesh explosive. It’s tiny, fits right over the penis and offers vibrating pleasure for the both of you while you just pump away and enjoy. It’s hands free and has 10 different vibrating modes depending on your speed between the sheets.

$79.99 AT ELLA PARADIS

Mini Zip

The Mini Zip Clitoral Stimulator is the one of the best (and fastest) ways to get yours. Clitoral suction is becoming so popular in the sex toy industry, we really do need more than one. This mini version can fit anywhere in your bathroom, bedroom, or car (hey, we don’t judge here) without taking up a lot of space. Since it’s whisper-quiet, the only thing you will have to worry about is the noise you will be making after you experience the incredible orgasm that’s in store for you.

$129.99 AT ELLA PARADIS

Hawk Dual Masturbator

This dual masturbator means you can join in the fun with your partner, or gift it to him while he he’ll be away. (Hey, sex toys aren’t just for women and we don’t mind sharing.) It’s a number one best-selling item for Ella Paradis and is said to feel like the real thing with its two openings and textures.

$139.00 AT ELLA PARADIS

Digit Finger Vibrator

If discreet is your game, you can’t get enough of your finger vibes and this Digit finger vibrator is great for giving yourself a quickie or stimulating your partner without a lot of bulk. It has 5 speeds so you can experiment and is waterproof. Keep in mind, it’s made for right-handers but left handed people can use it too, it just may not be as comfortable.

$10400 AT ELLA PARADIS

Butterfly Nipple Clamps

Our vaginas shouldn’t get to have all the fun. Many enjoy their nipples getting some extra stimulation and guess what? There’s a toy for that. These butterfly nipple clamps look like jewelry and can be used solo or with a partner to bring your sex toy game to its peak. The chain adds a bit of weight so be warned, these aren’t for someone who isn’t into nipple play.

$32 AT ELLA PARADIS

3-Piece Bead Set

Sex toys aren’t only for the genitals. This 3-piece bead set is perfect for those who want to experiment with some anal play. These can be used alone or with a partner and are great because you control them completely. They are 100% manual so no vibrations or recharging or cords. The beads have different sizes so you get to play around and decide what’s right for you. They’re perfect for beginners and are super safe as they have a base (most anal toys do).

$14.99 AT ELLA PARADIS

Remote Control Panties

Remote control panties are the definition of being discreet. Even if you don’t want to take these babies on a ride outside of the house, they can be incredibly sexy to use while staying at home. You or your partner can control the 10-mode remote control that slips inside and no one has to know what’s going on in your shorts unless you want them to. The comfortable design of the panties are made to fit and move with you as well as making you feel sexy with their lacy texture. They work within a range of 20 feet, so you can be watching television while your partner is doing the dishes and they can give you a little teaser when they feel like it.

$69.00 AT ELLA PARADIS

The post The Best Discreet Sex Toys When You Want To Lowkey Get Off appeared first on Scary Mommy.

The Best Walkie Talkies For Your Spy Kids

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The best walkie talkies for kids on the market are your answer for when your little one asks for a cell phone. Seriously! Walkie talkies can keep your kids connected with their friends, with their siblings, and especially with you, even when they’re just hiding out in their bedrooms. What’s even cooler about walkie talkies, though, is that if your child is off at a friend’s house within just a couple miles, many of these radios can reach that far. That means your kid can let you know they’re going to be late for dinner because they’re still very busy playing games like Disney characters on a top-secret mission with their friends down the street. Best of all — no monthly bill!

With walkie talkies, your kids can get many of the vibes of having a fancy device when in actuality, it’s a durable little radio they can hang around their necks or clip on their pants. These radios are also an excellent idea if you’re an outdoorsy family. If the whole family is equipped with a radio, you can feel a little more comfortable going hiking or camping, because everyone will be connected. If you get separated — whether intentionally or not — having these walkie talkies could be key to keeping everyone safe. We’ve chosen walkie talkie sets that are easy for kids to use exactly for that reason.

Best Walkie Talkies for Kids

2 Way Radio Walkie Talkies

The Buturu 2 Way Radio Walkie Talkies come in a pack of three so no one feels left out. You’ll get one pink, blue, and yellow radio in the pack, so everyone knows whose is whose! The radios work up to three miles away, which means your kids can give the other ones to their friends in the neighborhood so they can keep in touch even when they can’t see each other. The radios have 22 available channels and use an easy push-to-talk function. Parents on Amazon are fond of these radios, not just for the price, but for the function. One reviewer said she loves that this walkie talkie allows her kid to tell her where they are without having to run home and back.

$29.97 AT AMAZON

4-Mile Range Two Way Radios

What we really love about these 4-Mile Range Two Way Radios is that they have a built-in flashlight. Now when your kids are out sleuthing where they’re not supposed to be, they’ll have a flashlight handy for when they inevitably need it. The flashlight is also useful for when they’re chatting with their friends after lights-out. The radios work up to four miles away and are extra durable. And when we say they really work from far away, we mean they really work — even the Amazon reviews are saying so!

$26.99 AT AMAZON

Walkie Talkies for Kids

This set of Walkie Talkies for Kids says that they’re so easy to set up that your children can do it themselves. Less work for parents is always a plus! They come in four color options, but the red is the most fun. They’re battery-operated and can be used hands free, making them perfect for all your kids. They have over 6,000 reviews on Amazon, many of which are raving. One parent even uses the walkie talkies with their 5-year-old — they’re that simple!

$21.99 AT AMAZON

Obuby Toys Walkie Talkies for Kids

How cute are these colorful Obuby Toys Walkie Talkies for Kids? They come in a variety of bright colors that your kids are sure to love. What we really love about this set is that it’s waterproof. They have a three-kilometer range, so your kids can keep in touch with their friends in the neighborhood. These are also touted as having really clear sound, and reviewers agree!

$31.99 AT AMAZON

Rechargeable Walkie Talkies

Rechargeable Walkie Talkie

Say goodbye to constantly needing new batteries, because these Rechargeable Walkie Talkies use rechargeable ones. The multicolor four-pack of radios is totally rechargeable as long as your little ones remember to actually charge them. The long-range walkie talkies are great for outdoor use and can even be charged in the car during weekend getaways with the whole family. These walkie talkies are also durable — one Amazon reviewer noted that one of their kids dropped it numerous times and it never damaged it.

$55.24 AT AMAZON

Retevis RT-602 Walkie Talkies for Kids

The Retevis RT-602 Walkie Talkies for Kids come with rechargeable batteries and a docking station to keep everything contained while not in use. They have a built-in flashlight and are bright orange — ideal for use outside. What’s even cooler about these is they work with all the other Retevis 602 radios, as long as they’re on the same channel, so even if your kids’ friends have their own set of these, they can still chat! Amazon reviewers love the quality of these radios for the price.

$34.99 AT AMAZON

Best Walkie Talkies for Families

Rechargeable Walkie Talkies for Kids

This set of Rechargeable Walkie Talkies for Kids is actually a great option for the whole family. You can opt for a set of three or four in a number of colorways — with no two radios the same. The radios come with rechargeable batteries that you can plug in to get more juice, and each walkie talkie has its own lanyard for easy transporting. They work up to three miles in your neighborhood and up to six miles in open conditions, which gives your fam a ton of opportunities to use these outdoors. They come highly recommended on Amazon, with one parent noting that they’ve used their own radios on all kinds of outdoor adventures!

$49.69 AT AMAZON

Long Range Rechargeable Radios

Perfect for the whole family, the Long Range Rechargeable Radios come in packs of two or three. What we like about this option is that you can get a set of matching ones. Get a couple packs of all one color and the whole family has the matchy-matchy look on lock. These are also rechargeable and come with a cord and rechargeable batteries. Great for distances, these radios work up to a mile in the neighborhood, up to four miles on open water, but up to 16 miles from mountain to valley. That’s huge! Amazon buyers have rated this set 4.5 stars out of 5, with one reviewer saying, “The whole family is loving these.”

$33.99 AT AMAZON

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Holy Toys, Batman! This Batman Merch Is DC Fankid-Approved

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Almost every kid goes through a Batman phase and wants ALL the Batman toys (TBH many of us, parents included, still love Batman). And since this DC superhero comes with a lot of accessories, it’s almost impossible to put a cap on all the best Batman toys, but we did our best. Batman is one of the most popular superheroes, in part because most people can relate to Batman. He doesn’t have superpowers. He has to build everything on his own and use his brain to outwit his foes. Some of us can even relate to his dark side … which is why quite a few of the new Batman movies are not made for kids. (At least your kid probably doesn’t have feelings about Ben Affleck’s Batman and that’s probably for the best.)

Instead, you may want to introduce your kids to the Batman character through comic books, cartoons, and the best Batman toys for kids. These toys are fun and rarely focus on the troubled, dark side of Batman’s character. (There’s plenty of time for kids to investigate the brooding Dark Knight version of Batman when they’re older.)

One of the great things about Batman toys is that they spark imaginative and unstructured playtime. Kids can dress up like Batman and dream up amazing adventures. Or they can use figurines and LEGO kits to make up their own stories involving the characters in the Batman universe.

Who knows? You may inspire your kid to be an everyday super hero through playtime with the best Batman toys Amazon has to offer.

The Best Batman Toys:

Rubie's Boys DC Comics Batman Costume

When the kid wants to play as Batman, why not dress up like Batman while doing so? This is a great Batman costume with plenty of realistic features. (Unfortunately, it doesn’t come in extra large for that giant 30-something-aged kid in your house who also likes to dress up as a super hero from time to time.)

$32.60 AT AMAZON

Batman Mask And Cape Set

We all know Bruce Wayne — and hence, Batman — has no budgetary restrictions. Being a billionaire tends to give a person that kind of freedom. We’re going to go out on a limb and guess that you are not a billionaire. So if you are looking to give your child a Batman costume on a budget, this mask and cape combination will be fun for dress-up time.

$14.99 AT AMAZON

Mattel Batman Voice Changing Tactical Helmet

Kids love to dress up like Batman, use toys to create Batman stories, and watch Batman movies and cartoons. What’s left? Talking like Batman. This helmet has a voice changing feature to give the kid a Batman-like voice, while also offering a number of sound effects. (Yeah, the kid will drive you crazy with this toy. But, let’s face it, the average parent is already 54% on the way to Crazy-Town, so this only speeds up the process.)

$29.97 AT AMAZON

Batman Interactive Gauntlet

Do you feel like purchasing another noisy Batman toy? (No? OK, but there’s no need for that kind of language while answering.) Well, here it is anyway. This gauntlet glove has play modes and sound effects that will be insanely fun for the kid to use.

$19.99 AT AMAZON

Sunny Days Entertainment Indoor Batman Pop Up Play Tent

A few decades ago, when Mom and Dad wanted some alone time, they’d send the kids to the backyard for an overnight campout in a tent. Good luck trying to convince kids to do that these days, unless you’ve installed a WiFi extender out there. So this is the next best thing. Put the kid inside this Batman indoor tent for a basement campout and hope for the best.

$19.99 AT AMAZON

Delta Children DC Comics Batmobile Twin Bed

When I was a kid, I always wanted a race car bed, but I never received one. And after seeing this Batmobile car bed, I’m glad I didn’t. Even decades later, the memories of any race car bed would not have come close to being cool enough after seeing this Batmobile bed, which causes all other race car beds to hang their heads in shame.

$249.99 AT AMAZON

Graphics & More Bat Shield Bicycle Handlebar Bell

When kids start riding a bicycle, having a classic bell attached to the handlebars can be a fun addition. When it has a classic Batman shield logo on it, it graduates to the perfect addition. Maybe this will be the spark that convinces the kid to put down the screen and go bike riding. (A parent can always dream.)

$8.99 AT AMAZON

Hauck Batmobile Pedal Go Kart

If the bike bell isn’t enough to have the kid ready to play outside, this pedal kart that’s covered with the Batman logo may do the trick. (No, they don’t make it in an adult size. Dad will have to continue riding his plain old bicycle. Sad.)

$109.48 AT AMAZON

Franco Kids Soft Plush LEGO Batman Toys For Kids

Yeah, we know. Batman isn’t the cuddliest character in the world. But little kids don’t necessarily know that. This plush toy is perfect for giving Batman a cuddly hug. (And maybe that’s just what the Dark Knight truly needs.)

$24.99 AT AMAZON

Gund Jumbo Blue Batman Plush Stuffed Bear

If your kid is a little too young for actual Batman toys, or if the Batman character is still a bit too menacing, this stuffed teddy bear who’s dressed up in a Batman costume will be a nice introduction to the character. After all, a smiling teddy bear could never be a brooding, troubled super hero. Just don’t introduce this teddy bear to the Dark Knight character, or it could undergo a personality transformation.

$20.95 AT AMAZON

Delta Children 6-Bin Toy Storage Organizer DC Super Friends And Batman

Kids hate putting away toys. Parents hate making kids put away toys. So the hope is that with Batman and other super heroes on this storage bin, it will encourage the kids to use it, putting away their toys without constant nagging, cajoling, and threatening on your part. Quit laughing. It could happen.

$31.99 AT AMAZON

Bedtime For Batman Book

We fully understand that Batman does his best work in the cover of darkness. Batman has no bedtime … and you should try to keep this information away from your child at all costs. Do you really want to give a child who idolizes Batman another reason to argue about having to go to bed? This bedtime book is ideal for preschoolers, giving a fun and cute introduction to the Batman character.

$7.99 AT AMAZON

Be Brave Like Batman Book

When your child becomes old enough to begin to develop fears of things like whatever is hiding in the closet at 2:30 a.m. that requires your immediate attention, you may ask the child to be braver … between yawns, of course. This illustrated book uses the Batman character to help kids become braver regarding everyday things.

$9.69 AT AMAZON

DC Comics Batman LCD Pop Musical Watch

This Batman logo wrist watch plays the theme song and lights up. Flip the watch face, and it displays the time. You might even say it’s an educational toy, as it helps the child learn to tell time. (We wouldn’t say that, but you might.)

$9.99 AT AMAZON

Mini Batman Light-Up Bat Signal

When you’re watching a Batman movie, TV show, or cartoon, you know when you see the Bat Signal light up the sky, sh*t is about to go down. (Kind of like when mom uses the kids’ middle names when talking to them, that’s when we all know sh*t’s getting real.) For kids creatively playing with Batman toys to make up adventures, having a mini working Bat Signal on hand will be the perfect finishing touch.

$9.95 AT AMAZON

Batman Walkie Talkies For Kids

Sure, these days most kids have smartphones so they can talk to each other at any time. (Not that they ever do, preferring to communicate with text, TikTok, and who knows what else.) Still, there has to be a place for cool Batman walkie talkies in a child’s toy arsenal. These also include sound and light effects for the ideal annoying touch that’s sure to have you ordering the kids to play outside in record time.

$26.99 AT AMAZON

LEGO Juniors Defend The Batcave

For younger children who aren’t quite ready for traditional LEGO Batman sets, try this Juniors set, which has only 150 pieces … which also may appeal to parents who don’t have the patience for a larger LEGO set. It features the Batcave and some villains for extra fun.

$79.75 AT AMAZON

LEGO BrickHeadz Batman Building Kit

LEGO BrickHeadz characters have a seriously creepy quality … and the glow-in-the-dark eyes don’t help. It doesn’t seem to affect their popularity, though. This BrickHeadz Batman kit for ages 10 and up will give you another weird character to add to your collection.

$46.88 AT AMAZON

LEGO DC Mobile Bat Base

Did you know Batman has a semi-truck that carries a mobile Batcave? Now you do. This 743-piece LEGO set is made for ages 6 and up.

$89.95 AT AMAZON

LEGO DC 1989 Batmobile Building Kit

Ready to build your own full-size working Batmobile? Of course not. It would take millions of dollars from Bruce Wayne and multiple engineers and designers to pull that off. (Or at least one Bat Computer.) So how about building a detailed LEGO version of the Batmobile instead? That sounds like a more realistic goal … at least for an older kid, as this kit has more than 3,300 pieces.

$249.95 AT AMAZON

Jada DC Comics 1989 Batmobile

When kids are ready to migrate away from cartoonish Batman toys to those that resemble the Dark Knight, this is an impressive replica of the Batmobile, complete with a figurine.

$24.99 AT AMAZON

Figures Toy Company DC Comics Retro Batman Batmobile

If you’re more of a fan of the campy 1960s TV show Batman and Robin characters, this toy takes you back to those days. You won’t be able to resist singing the theme song as the kids play with this Batmobile. (C’mon, you know the words: “Na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na” … and so on.)

$49.99 AT AMAZON

Hot Wheels Batman 6-Vehicle Bundle

For kids who love Hot Wheels and Batman, these die-cast toy vehicles will make an ideal Batman toys gift, featuring plenty of detail for Batman fans to enjoy. (Best of all, Hot Wheels don’t make any noise or create flashing lights. Peace and quiet, at last!)

$39.99 AT AMAZON

Hot Wheels Batman Dark Knight Rises Batplane Elite

Hot Wheels don’t always have to incorporate cars, especially when Batman is involved. This is a 1:50 scale model of the Batplane that contains impressive detail, making a great addition to any collection of Batman toys.

$20.50 AT AMAZON

Fisher-Price Imaginext DC Super Surround Batcave

If you want to give kids all of the noise, lights, and imaginative craziness they can handle — and your nerves can handle — this is the ideal toy. In addition to the lights, it has figurines, a spinning Batsuit vault, and jail cells. With dimensions of 2.5 by 4 feet, this is a lot of toy … in more ways than one.

$141.85 AT AMAZON

Fisher-Price Imaginext Batbot

As all Batman fans know, Bruce Wayne can dream up almost anything for Batman to use, which means toymakers can go crazy when developing the best Batman toys … such as with this Batman tank-robot combination. (It’s OK if you feel a little emotional when seeing this monstrosity. Sometimes, a toy is so insanely perfect, it brings a tear to your eye. We understand.)

$98.20 AT AMAZON

Fisher-Price Imaginext DC Transforming RC Batmobile

Kids love remote control cars. Kids love Batman. Hence, this remote control Batmobile is the second greatest dynamic duo pairing of all time.

$59.00 AT AMAZON

Fisher-Price Imaginext DC Ninja Armor Batmobile

What if Batman had crazy ninja skills? We’re pretty sure he’d drive a bad-ass ninja Batmobile like this one. We don’t believe Batman would carry a giant Samurai sword like is found here, but we’re also guessing cool ninja Batman doesn’t have any desire to follow the traditional rules of the Batman character.

$19.97 AT AMAZON

Fisher-Price Imaginext DC Batsub

Of course Batman has a Batsub. Why wouldn’t he? We’re not sure there’s a vehicle on the planet of which Batman doesn’t own some version of it. How many vehicles does Batman have? Let’s just say we wouldn’t want to have to pay Batman’s personal property tax bill. It’s a good thing Bruce Wayne is a billionaire.

$14.96 AT AMAZON

Fisher-Price Imaginext DC Batman 80th Anniversary Figurines

If seeing Batman in his traditional costume is too boring for your kids, these figurines are made with them in mind. Check out these crazy alternative costumes, and maybe your kid will want to design a few of his or her own for Batman to wear.

$19.99 AT AMAZON

DC Comics Batman 12" Action Figure

No collection of the best Batman toys for kids would be complete without a classic action figure. No, it doesn’t light up or talk or do homework, but it can still be fun to play with. (You may have to introduce the kid to the concept of using his or her “imagination” for creating adventures with this toy, but it’ll be worth it.)

$29.99 AT AMAZON

Funkoverse: DC Comics Batman Board Game

The Funkoverse game, made for ages 10 and up, gives you a strategy game that helps you bring the characters from the world of Batman and DC to life. It’ll be a fun board game to play over and over, because you can choose different scenarios. Plus it has those weirdly cute Funko-style figurines. What more could you want?

$20.50 AT AMAZON

The post Holy Toys, Batman! This Batman Merch Is DC Fankid-Approved appeared first on Scary Mommy.

The Best Kids Bike Seats So You & Your LO Can Ride Like The Wind Together

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A kids bike seat is an essential piece of gear for every biking parent: Sometimes, you want to ride a bike without stopping every 10 feet to wait for your little one to catch up on their tricycle or scooter. Today’s child bike seat attachments are lightweight, sturdy, aerodynamic, and safer than ever. Heck, the best toddler bike seats have even protected little ones during crashes, leaving them relatively unscathed while the biking parent nursed injuries at the hospital. (Of course the helmet kept that little noggin safe, too). Have an older kiddo who wants to experience the thrill of the ride on an actual bike seat? Check out some of the newest front facing mid-mounted bike seat attachments that feel just like riding a bike – without the actual pedaling and steering. Have an unpredictable toddler who needs to be fully strapped in? Or an older baby ready for a ride? A child bike seat that’s front mounted will let you easily interact with your little one. That said, some of the most popular rear mounted baby and toddler bike seats are plush oversized loungers perfect for a nap. But no matter which you choose, the screen-free entertainment of a leisurely bike ride will be a nice reprieve watching their fave Disney cartoon characters sing the same songs over and over, if you ask us.

Get outside and take a ride as a family! You will even get to your destination in record time by avoiding all those stops with one of these state-of-the-art child bike seats.

Baby Bike Seat Front Mounts

The CoPilot Cabbie Front Child Carrier

Hit the open road as a family with your littlest cycler, thanks to the super sleek Cabbie Child Carrier from CoPilot. It’s designed with a unique low profile seat to allow the cycler total range of vision for safer driving with baby in tow. The Cabbie baby bike seat is manufactured in high-visibility bright colors that are easily seen from the road or trail with a durable three-point harness for added safety. Amazon customer PA Super Mom reviews, “We bought this for our family vacation last August when my daughter was about 9 months old. This was great! We felt secure knowing she was safe on our bike, and she loved the experience of riding on a bike. Highly recommended.” 

$99.94 AT AMAZON

iBert Child Bike Safe-T-Seat

“This thing is perfect!” raves parent IsaacMTSU about the iBert Safe-T-Seat. “The seat is great! It’s padded in the center where the kid sits and on their back, but not the sides. This is a good thing because it allows the seat to be narrow so it doesn’t affect my riding position very much. It’s really awesome to have such a low impact on the riding position while having a child on your bike with you!” The iBert Safe-T-Seat has everything a baby and biker need, including a center handlebar mount for added stability and a slim design for unobstructed pedaling. Your little one will love “driving” the bike with the attached padded steering wheel, keeping their mitts off your handlebars. With one of the best riding positions for baby, the iBert child bike seat puts baby front and center over the handlebars for a priceless view and superior driver mobility.

 

$120 AT AMAZON

CyclingDeal Front Mount Baby Bike Seat

For the front mount child seat with maximum versatility, look no further than the CyclingDeals infant and toddler bike seat. Designed for babies from 9 months on up to 33 lbs, this unique child bike seat features dual mount positioning. Mount the seat backwards so Baby faces you for easy interaction or mount looking over the handlebars, allowing Baby to keep an eye on the road ahead. “The mid-mounted location gives my baby an unobstructed view of everything we pass, and does not compromise the balance of the bike at all. And the seat is far enough away from the handlebars to keep him from being able to reach them. I get compliments and questions about the seat every single time we go for a ride. I highly recommend this product over anything else on the market” reviews one cyclist on Amazon.

$59.98 AT AMAZON

Toddler Bike Seat Front Mounts

Peg Perego Orion Front Mount Child Seat

No need to buy a new bike just to accommodate your front mounted toddler bike seat. The Peg Perego Orion child bike seat has the most versatile installation system on the market with an innovative bracket for easy mounting on almost all bike frames, including hard-to-accommodate beach cruisers and e-bikes. After fixing the mounting bracket to the head tube of your bike, taking the child seat on and off your bike is a breeze with the Peg Perego one-click installation system. Equipped to grow with your toddler, the fully-adjustable seat features a 3-point safety harness, adjustable footrest to protect growing legs from the wheel spoke, and safety straps to securely hold feet in place.

$101.37 AT AMAZON

Together-Life Front Mount Child Bike Seat

One of the sturdiest seats on the market, the durable carbon steel and aluminum alloy Together-Life child bike seat is perfect for older toddlers and kids of all ages. This seat is so strong it has a 132lb weight limit. The adjustable mesh-covered guard rail makes a comfortable, well-ventilated arm rest while keeping your little one safe and secure on your adventures. “I love this seat” raves one parent on Amazon. “My two-year-old loves this seat. We go for a ride every day. I just wish I would have had one of these for all my kiddos! It’s extremely sturdy and well made and it’s easy to attach. Fantastic! You will not be disappointed.” With a cushioned seat for shock absorption and a dual latching support system, you and your little biker will ride with confidence and comfort. Oh yeah, and don’t forget about that adorable panda on the seat.

$56.99 AT AMAZON

WeeRide Kangaroo Child Bike Seat

There is nothing like the WeeRide Kangaroo child bike seat on the market. This super plush front mount toddler bike seat is the closest thing to a car seat for your bike we’ve seen. With an ultra thick padded seat, a 5-point deluxe safety harness and adjustable foot rest, your little one will be primed for the nap of his or her life (which is why those smarties at WeeRide added a padded dashboard, perfectly positioned for a little napping head). “Perfection” reviews one mom on Amazon. “OMG we love it!!! Installation was simple and sturdy. I started riding with my daughter when she was 7 months old and the front part where she can lay her head is perfect because she always goes to sleep.”

$99.99 AT AMAZON

Rear Child Bike Seats

Schwinn Deluxe Child Carrier Bike Seat

Schwinn, the American bike icon, offers one of the most popular wheel mounted bike seats on our list. The Schwinn child bike seat is loaded with safety features like a quick-release 3-point harness, leg restraints (so your little one doesn’t tip you over kicking around), a padded cross bar, and a comfortable seat with added ventilation. But most importantly, this rear mounted child seat will keep your kiddo safe and secure. “This product saved my child’s life!” reviews one parent on Amazon. “A few days ago we were riding the bike, when some crazy guy on a bike broke into us! Immediately we all fell, I fractured my shoulder and my baby came out with really minor bruises. Nothing! He was attached to the seat the whole time, even when the bike fell, and he was just fine. He cried because he was scared, but he soon stopped crying since he did not have any injuries. Thanks to this product he is safe!”

$89.99 AT AMAZON

Hamax Caress Rear Child Bike Seat

Award winning Scandinavian design meets tough European safety standards with the Hamax Caress child bike seat. Choose the attachment system (frame or back rack) that works for your bike – Hamax offers both. Either seat style sports superior shock absorbing, dual bar suspensions that securely attach to the frame or back rack of the bike with a heavy duty anti-theft bracket. Harmax Caress grows with your baby safely accommodating any child up to 48.5 lbs with its fully adjustable seat back and foot rests. Plus the specially designed seat features an ergonomic helmet recess and a reclining seat, creating a perfect nap nook on the road. The safety certified Hamax Caress is the only child bike seat around that can be fully adjusted with just one hand, leaving the other hand free to support the bike or your little one. Comfort and security, now that’s a bike seat we can take a ride on!

$209.00 AT AMAZON

Thule RideAlong Child Bike Seat

The best child bike seat for on-the-go comfort, the Thule RideAlong bike carrier offers five reclining options up to 20°. We know every parent will appreciate the water-repellant, fully removable and machine washable seat padding. Meanwhile, your kiddo will snuggle into the soft seat and have a smooth ride, thanks to the DualBeam suspension system, which absorbs any bumps on the road. “Best purchase ever!” gushes one cycling parent on Amazon. “This is probably one of the best investments I have ever made! After months and months of research, we decided to buy the Thule RideAlong based on reviews, other people’s experiences, and safety. It is so easy to install and move from one bike to another. I can barely feel her even when she wiggles and moves around. We have been using it nonstop and my baby loves it!” 

$250 AT AMAZON

Front-Mounted Child Bike Seats

Shotgun Kids Mountain Bike Seat

The Shotgun Kids Mountain Bike Seat is a dream come true for any avid mountain biker or casual neighborhood rider. The fully adjustable Shotgun bike seat fits any mountain bike that has a straight or sloping top tube with a special bracket that accommodates most widths and angles. Designed for kids from 2 years old up to 48 pounds, every Shotgun bike seat is made out of protective molded rubber, which prevents damage to your expensive carbon or alloy bike. “I can’t say enough good things about this!” shares one parent on Amazon. “My 2-year-old loves this thing and asks to go for bike rides all the time. This is a game changer. I wish I could afford to get this for everyone I know with little kids.” Add the Shotgun kids handlebars for an even bigger blast and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

$123.04 AT AMAZON

UrRider Portable Child Bike Seat

The totally portable, lightweight folding UrRider child bike seat is perfect for busy families on the go. The front mount bike seat easily attaches without the use of tools – making it ideal for city bike shares and rentals, as well as your own personal ride. And at just 2 pounds, throwing this seat in your bag for the day won’t weigh you down! “Perfect portable bike seat” reviews one Amazon customer. “Makes exploring downtown LA so much easier and fun! The seat is super easy to install and very sturdy. It fit like a charm on the Metro Bikes in downtown LA. Easy to store away in our backpack too.” With a soft cushioned saddle seat and a non-slip U-shaped handle, you can gear up for convenient family biking anytime, anywhere.

$99.99 AT AMAZON

Do Little Front-Mounted Kids Bike Seat

Give your bike-loving little the same view as you with the Do Little child bike seat. This front facing, mid-mount child bike seat comes in two different sizes to easily fit all standard and biggie bikes with an easy-to-use attachment adaptor for guaranteed stress-free installation. And after 20 years of research and engineering, the Do Little team has created a super stable and safe bike saddle seat with high strength steel, a 3-point bolted anchoring system, and wrap around stirrups to protect little feet. One parent on Amazon reviews, “My 3-year-old and I are in love! We have been riding bikes a lot but he can’t ride his bike as long as I’d like to. Now I can get some exercise in, while he has tons of fun. And I am by no means an expert on a bike! This seat is sturdy and secure. Game changer!”

$139.99 AT AMAZON

Looking for more mom approved kid gear? We’ve got all the best stuff to help your little one have a safe and happy childhood!

The post The Best Kids Bike Seats So You & Your LO Can Ride Like The Wind Together appeared first on Scary Mommy.

These Minecraft LEGO Sets Are Awesome — If You’re Not A Square

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Whether you’re a parent, aunt or uncle, or just know someone who has kids, there’s a chance you’ve heard the term “Minecraft,” and it’s likely they want a Minecraft set for a birthday or holiday. This is because Minecraft is one of the most popular video games of the decade, among kids and adults alike. So, if you’re looking for the best gift for the Minecraft lover(s) in your life, look no further.

What Is Minecraft? 

Available for PC, Mac, and Xbox 360 (in addition to the mobile versions for iPhone, iPad, and Android smartphones), Minecraft is a creative video game in which the players can create and break apart brick-like blocks in three-dimensional worlds. The goal of the game? To explore, build, and survive. 

While it may seem too simple of a game to have any real educational value, Minecraft teaches young players essential life skills, such as self-direction, problem-solving, collaboration, and creativity. There’s even a semiannual convention (known as “MineCon”) and an educational initiative that’s got the game in schools, too. 

The Best LEGO Minecraft Sets You Can Buy Online

Since its creation, Minecraft has taken on a life of its own. Now, there are hundreds of worlds, customized themes, and versions of the game. There’s even a LEGO-Minecraft combo (which is referred to as a Minecraft set) that children can play with IRL. 

Need help deciphering which Minecraft set is the best? We’ve done the research so you don’t have to. Give the gift of creativity with one (or more!) of the Minecraft sets listed below. 

LEGO Minecraft The Crafting Box 3.0

Perfect for players eight years old or older, this 564-piece Minecraft LEGO set includes popular characters Steve, Alex, Creeper, pig, and Zombie, in addition to a number of fun features (including a TNT launcher). 

“My son loves LEGO Minecraft and this is the best,” one Amazon reviewer writes. “He often gets hung up on making the sets exactly right, but this open-ended box makes my very rigid kid more comfortable with not using directions. They do provide some, but with these options he’s more comfortable with being creative.”

$56.00 AT AMAZON

LEGO Minecraft The Creeper

This Minecraft LEGO set is ideal for players who are a fan of Creeper. With 834 pieces, three mini-figures, and three explosive functions, your hands-on tike is sure to love this set. It also comes with The Creeper Mine, which features the Creeper statue, rail track, minecart, and sleep shelter. 

“My eight-year-old son who loves Minecraft LEGO sets asked for this set for his birthday and he’s happy with everything,” one Amazon reviewer writes. “What does he like most? According to my son, this is the big scenery set and there are many traps. Regarding building process, he didn’t have any problem in building it by himself. He enjoys building and playing for hours and hours.”

$127.76 AT AMAZON

LEGO Minecraft The Redstone Battle

The Redstone Battle incorporates features from the online game, Minecraft Dungeons, into the real world with this 504-piece set. It also comes equipped with four Minecraft heroes, including Hex, Hedwig, Hal, and Valorie, so your little one will be prepared to defeat the bad guys. 

“My kid loves this! He was so excited when it came in and I was so excited to see him want to do something other than get on a game console,” one Amazon reviewer writes. “This is perfect for gifting, or if you like Legos yourself…. have at it! lol … definitely recommend.”

$40.78 AT AMAZON

Cheap Minecraft LEGO Sets 

If there’s one thing kids don’t understand, it’s money. Avoid overspending and opt for one of the affordable Minecraft sets below.

LEGO Hidden Side Wrecked Shrimp Boat

This augmented reality set is unique in that it’s all about living life on the sea. It includes 310 pieces in addition to four mini-figures, including Jack Davids and Parker L. Jackson, Captain Jones, and Jones Jr., plus Spencer (the ghost dog) and an albino alligator. (Tbh, this sounds pretty awesome and I’m allegedly an adult.) 

“My five-year-old loves the whole ‘scary’ and interactive part, and couldn’t wait to put it together,” writes one Amazon reviewer. “My wife and I play with our phones while my daughter plays with us. The interactive part works really great and is definitely bringing LEGO to the next level. It’s fun to capture the ghosts, finish tasks, etc. I hope Lego will not drop the line and keep investing in it.”

Note: This set requires a tablet or mobile device to get the full interactive play experience. 

$23.99 AT AMAZON

LEGO Minecraft The Pillager Outpost

This 303-piece Minecraft rescue adventure kit features crossbow-carrying pillagers, a TNT explosion function, a fully-equipped tent, and an archery practice area complete with dummies. There are three sections, so your child can build and rebuild while saving the town from troublesome pillagers. 

“My 10-year-old picked this out and ordered it himself, with my supervision,” one Amazon reviewer writes. “It was pretty easy for him to build (he’s been collecting and building LEGO sets since he was five) and he loves the Iron Golem. Definitely a must-have for kids that love to build LEGO sets.”

$23.99 AT AMAZON

LEGO Minecraft The Blaze Bridge

The Blaze Bridge Minecraft LEGO set includes 372 pieces and an Alex mini-figure, a wither skeleton figure, and two blaze figures with spinnable blaze rods. This set is perfect for both boys and girls of eight years old or older. 

“My son loves this set! It was a gift for his birthday,” one Amazon reviewer writes. “He’s a true engineer-brained kid, so this was a perfect way for him to keep his hands busy and let his imagination wander!”

$40.99 AT AMAZON

Big Minecraft LEGO Sets 

If your little one is up for a challenge, you can purchase Minecraft LEGO sets with as many as 1,000 pieces! Though, we’d recommend buying a Minecraft carrying case or organizer, just in case.

LEGO Minecraft The Mountain Cave

They say to “Go big or go home,” right? This Minecraft LEGO set includes 2,863 pieces, complete with a minecart track, two minecarts, mountaintop shelter, and torch and furnace, among other fun features. This set also includes two mini-figures (Alex and Steve) in addition to a cave spider, wolf, baby wolf, two bats, a zombie, and more. 

“It took me and my five-year-old more than a week to assemble,” one Amazon reviewer writes. “He enjoyed every minute of it, and aside from a few technic pieces that make support structures, he did it all himself. Don’t let the recommended age set you back, the manual is full color and about 400 pages.”

$1 AT AMAZON

LEGO Minecraft The Ocean Monument

With 1,122 pieces, your kid is sure to have fun with this set for days. It also features a Minecraft ocean monument with a water sponge access function and opening treasure chamber, in addition to a cave with a furnace. This kit also includes two mini-figures (Steve and Alex). 

“My nine-year-old loves this set!” one Amazon reviewer writes. “It’s so much cooler than I thought it would be! It looks kind of meh from the outside, but the inside of this thing is amazing. Tons of neat little cubby holes and traps and stuff. Extremely happy with this gift!!”

$229.99 AT AMAZON

LEGO Minecraft The Bedrock Adventures

The Bedrock Adventures Minecraft Lego set includes 644 pieces. Although it’s been discontinued, it’s still available for purchase and has multiple five-star reviews. It also includes two Minecraft figures, Steve and Alex. 

“Bought this for my 11 year old son for his Birthday,” one Amazon reviewer writes. “I think he has played with it for 30 days straight. He loves it. Worth every cent.”

$182.50 AT AMAZON

The post These Minecraft LEGO Sets Are Awesome — If You’re Not A Square appeared first on Scary Mommy.

Pool Toys That Will Keep Your Water Babies (And Big Kids) Busy For Hours

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Once upon a time, pool toys for kids consisted of inflatable beach balls, rafts or tubes, and not a whole lot else (maybe pool-friendly Disney characters because #90s). These days, there are all sorts of fun pool toys for kids (and adults, let’s be honest) that range from floating basketball hoops to diving sticks to wearable mermaid tails. We’ve come a long way from Marco Polo, baby.

No matter how old your kids are, there are pool toys available to keep them entertained, active, and improve their water skills. Little swimmers (guppies?) can get comfortable with toddler-friendly squirt toys and floating boats that can go from the bathtub to the pool and back again. Gem-filled treasure chests, scooping nets, and other dive-and-catch toys encourage bourgeoning swimmers, while options like a floating bean bag toss or inflatable water slide keep kids busy for hours. That’s the goal, right?

Whether you’re aiming to improve your little one’s confidence in the water or engage a whole gaggle of novice swimmers, you’ll find what you’re looking for ahead. Scroll on to shop the best pool toys for kids of all age levels and interests.

Pool Toys for Toddlers 

Fun Little Toys Toy Boat Bath Toys

Buy them for the pool, save them for the bath! A set of mini cars, squirter toy boats, and a ferry complete with a ramp (for loading the cars, obv) will keep your little water babe entertained in imaginative play. “Little people at our house love this in the shallow end of the pool,” according to one customer. Another’s son, “asks for bath time just to play with it!” Impressive.

$27.95 AT AMAZON

Green Toys Seaplane

Another pick that doubles as a bath or pool toy for kids, Green Toys’ bright seaplane has a spinning propeller, as well as a cockpit for figurines—excuse me, pilots—and it of course floats! Good for kids one year and older, this toddler toy will help develop fine motor and gross motor skills, is made of 100% recycled plastic, and it’s dishwasher safe. Check, check, and check!

$19.99 AT AMAZON

SwimWays Gobble Gobble Guppies

Numbered guppies get gobbled up by an orca in this counting-game-meets-pool-toy. Kids two and up will love squeezing the whale’s trigger to open his mouth and catch each member of the floating feast in the pool or the bath. As one reviewer noted, “Occupied my 2+ year old grandson for an hour chasing the little fish in the pool and gathering them in the big fish.” Impressive!

$11.66 AT AMAZON

SwimWays Baby Spring Float Activity Center

For babies 9-24 months, this water float provides both entertainment and sun protection. A removable canopy offers UPF 50+, while the octopus (also removable) holds toys including a squeaker, stacking rings, rattle, and soft star. Plus, this pick folds up easily and comes in a carrying case, which means less schlepping and more splashing!

$29.99 AT AMAZON

Best Pool Toys for Athletes

FLOAT-EEZ Hoop Shark

Indulge their hoop dreams with an inflatable pool-ready option. Thick material with reinforced seams means this pick is durable, which is pretty important when you’re dealing with rambunctious ballers. It’s easy to inflate thanks to larger valves and comes with the ball included. This hoop can accommodate a standard-size basketball, as well—you know, just in case.

$39.97

Kangaroo Emoji Inflatable Beach Balls

Is there a kid around who isn’t crazy for emojis? This set comes with 12 inflatable balls (just under volleyball-sized), each with a different emoji expression. Since they’re smaller than the standard beach ball, these are great for younger kids and pool parties—when parties are a thing again, of course.

$6.99 AT AMAZON

GoSports Splash Hoop

Unlike its inflatable floating counterparts, this basketball hoop sits poolside (with a water-weighted base) and is designed for in-ground pools. It comes with two inflatable water basketballs and a pump, features a sturdy backboard and rim. According to reviewers who sing its praises, this pool game is easy to set up and a win for both kids and adults!

$119.99 AT AMAZON

Watermelon Ball

Inflatable pool balls are nothing new, but this one sure is. Fill it with water, not air, and it will sink to the bottom of the pool and float back up again due to near-neutral buoyancy (science!). Kids can dribble, pass, or kick it underwater, giving a whole new meaning to “water sports.” No wonder a reviewer described it as,”the best pool toy that we have ever had” that “kept the kids busy all afternoon.” Sold.

$24.99 AT AMAZON

Cool Pool Toys 

Seckton Amphibious RC Car

What’s cooler than a remote control car? One that can drive in the water, too, of course. This amphibious vehicle can also do stunts like spins and flips—on both land and sea! Be aware: Grown-ups may want a turn at this toy, as well. “I bought this for my son (3yo) to use at the pool,” wrote one reviewer, “but this toy was so fun in no time his brother (16yo) father (54yo) and grandfather (75yo) were all taking turns…In order to reduce fighting over the toy I am buying a second one today.” OK, then.

$41.99 AT AMAZON

Intex Water Slide

Turn your backyard into a mini amusement park with the addition of an inflatable water slide—just attach a garden hose for sprayers to keep the slide wet. It features climbing handles, steps, and is a pretty decent size (nearly 11′ x 7′ x 4′), so keep that in mind. It’s also big on entertainment value, as one reviewer put it, “We purchased this slide for our 8 year old’s birthday party. Half the price of a bounce house rental and we get to keep it.” Fair point!

$119.99 AT AMAZON

Atlasonix Water Blaster Soakers

Lightweight, safe water guns that don’t look like, well, guns? We’re here for it. This pack of water blasters features cute characters and squirts up to 30 feet away. Plus, these “pistols” know no age limit so they’ll entertain kids from toddlers to teen—and adults! As one reviewer wrote, “We bought them for a backyard birthday party, all the kids loved them ranging from 18mo to 15years old. They were used all summer with no issues…”

$18.99 AT AMAZON

Drive Way Games Floating Cornhole Set

The classic backyard game gets a fun, floating twist! Both kids and adults will love this pool version which includes an inflatable cornhole board and eight waterproof floating bean bags. It’s more challenging then the original as the target moves, so if you’ve got kiddos who get easily frustrated, try tying it to something for extra stability!

$24.75 AT AMAZON

Greenco Kids Colorful Inflatable Water Wheel Roller Float

A floating hamster wheel for your little animals? Why not? Colorful and durable, this fun find is a hit with all ages (recommended for three and up), according to one reviewer who raved, “Great quality! Used all summer by twin 10 year olds and also some adults & still as good as new!” It’s easy to inflate (and deflate), so round and round they’ll go.

$29.40 AT AMAZON

Underwater Toys

Battat Pirate Diving Set

What’s more exciting than hunting for treasure? A pirate’s chest filled with water toys is an ideal way to keep kids eight and up entertained and imaginative, and help them practice swimming at the same time. Booty includes faux jewels, coins, bones, sharks, and even seahorses (you never know what hides amongst the loot)—plus, the little mateys can play with it out of the pool, too, as one reviewer pointed out.

$12.95 AT AMAZON

SwimWays Toypedo Bandits

A sophisticated, hydrodynamic take on diving toys, these torpedoes each come with a different number value for scoring points—and they can glide up to 20 feet underwater. They’re easy to grip, recommended for kids five and up, and keep little swimmers busy (the dream!). So said one happy parent, “if you’re at a place where they are watched by a lifeguard or your spouse or whoever, these little torpedos will provide hours of diving and hunting activity without the annoyance of ‘Marco… Marco… Marco…’” *Adds to cart.*

$14.99 AT AMAZON

Zoggs Children's Zoggy Sinking Dive Sticks

Diving toys are a great way to get kids confident and comfortable underwater. Designed for kids 3 and up, these bright, fun sticks feature “Zoggy the seal” and land upright at the bottom of the pool when thrown in. Kids can ‘find’ Zoggy and bring him back, or compete to grab the most Zoggies. “Exactly what we needed when our toddler swim class could continue after COVID closures,” wrote one happy mama, “Brilliant value for money.”

$28.00 AT AMAZON

B.toys Hippo Scoop-A-Diving Pool Toys

Including one “hungry hippo” net and four weighted diving toys, er, hippo snacks to catch with it, this set is ideal underwater entertainment for littles age three and up. They’re bright and easy to grip, help develop coordination skills, and according to happy reviewers, they’re also quite durable.

$9.95 AT AMAZON

SwimWays Finding Dory Mr. Ray's Dive and Catch Game

Each character from this Finding Dory set floats at a different depth, offering an extra fun challenge for your little swimmer and helping develop underwater skills! Kids 5 and up can scoop Dory, Nemo, Pearl, Sheldon and Kathy with the Mr. Ray net (just like in the movie!) which will for sure delight tiny fans.

$29.99 AT AMAZON

Swimming Toys

Water Sports Swim Thru Rings

As a game or to hone underwater swimming skills, these rings deliver on aquatic entertainment wonderfully, according to one reviewer who “Used them to teach grandson how to swim below the surface of the pool. Also used them as targets for jumping through.” Adjustable air chambers mean you can change the underwater depth according to your kiddos abilities.

$15.20 AT AMAZON

Greenco Kids Colorful Inflatable Water Wheel Roller Float

A floating hamster wheel for your little animals? Why not? Colorful and durable, this fun find is a hit with all ages (recommended for three and up), according to one reviewer who raved, “Great quality! Used all summer by twin 10 year olds and also some adults & still as good as new!” It’s easy to inflate (and deflate), so round and round they’ll go.

$29.40 AT AMAZON

Fin Fun Wear-Resistant Mermaid Tail

Make your little’s mermaid dreams come true with a tail they can actually swim in! The fin is made from durable, flexible polypropylene covered in neoprene, and it’s easy to remove even while in the pool. This tail, meant for experienced swimmers, is available in a child’s size 6 through adult extra large so if you’re thinking of getting one for yourself, you’re definitely not alone (raises hand).

$79.95 AT AMAZON

 

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The Best Gifts To Give The Father Of The Bride

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If you’re planning a wedding, you already know the day isn’t just about you. Making everyone feel special and included is important—that means picking out the perfect gifts for everyone involved—not least among them, the father of the bride (and if you’re looking for gifts for the mother of the bride, we have you covered, too).

Every father-daughter or father-son relationship is different, even within the same family. So picking the perfect present to celebrate your unique bond with your dad (or your stepdad or dad-in-law!) can be a challenge: Is he sentimental? Serious? Practical? A jokester? No matter what type of man your Pop is or what his hobbies are, we’ve got gift ideas. From jewelry to beer glasses, you’ll find something ahead that will make him happy and proud–everything you want your dad to feel.

Best Father of the Bride Gifts

Bormioli Rocco Capitol Decanter

A monogrammed decanter makes the perfect sophisticated father of the bride gift for your dapper dad. Choose from three engraving designs for an elegant pick that doesn’t disappoint. According to one reviewer, “This decanter exceeded my expectations. It’s flat out beautiful. The engraving is superb.” Sounds pretty Dad-worthy.

$39.99 AT AMAZON

VNOX Stainless Steel Link Bracelet

Choose from black, gold plated, or silver finishes, then engrave this bracelet on the front, back, or both with your own words or one of the pre-written messages. Whether you opt for a lyric from your father/daughter dance, a private joke, or something simple (like “Dad”), it’s hard to go wrong with this stylish, sophisticated pick. In the words of one happy customer, “So extremely impressed with the bracelet when it came that I wanted to start ordering one for everyone I knew.”

$17.59 AT AMAZON

Viktor Jurgen Neck Massage Pillow

Weddings can be stressful for everyone involved. If sentimental father of the bride gifts are just not up your dad’s alley, get him something practical and pampering! An ergonomically-designed massage pillow with deep-kneading nodes and heat function will soothe his tense muscles at home, the office, or even in the car.

$39.99 AT AMAZON

W&F GIFT Embroidered Handkerchief

Is your dad a cryer? Gift him a hilarious keepsake that might actually keep him from blubbering on the big day. Made from 100% cotton with scalloped embroidered edges, the “Keep Your Shit Together” hanky is exactly the laugh he will need—a timeless message, really. 

$14.99 AMAZON

Elviros Toiletry Bag

With multiple storage compartments, double zippers, and water-resistant lining and faux leather, this toiletry bag has tons of room and keeps all of your dad’s belongings protected. Whether he’s traveling on business or coming to visit the newlyweds, he’ll think of you and your special day every time he uses this case.

$28.97 AT AMAZON

Kooer Classic Stylish Star Cuff Links

For Star Wars fanatics, this gift is basically a no-brainer. Are you even a dad/fan if you don’t make an “I am your father” joke? C’mon! Plus, since they’re sleek black and white (with just a teensy hint of red), these cufflinks won’t look too silly or kitschy for your big day.

$14.88 AT AMAZON

Lauhonmin I couldn't Pick a Better Dad Guitar Pick

What better gift for your guitar-playing dad than a special pick, complete with dad joke? Perfectly punny, it comes in silver, gold, and rose gold tones with matte or polished finishes, along with a velvet jewelry pouch. Note, this pick is meant more as a keepsake than for playing—either way, it’ll make the father of the bride smile big.

$8.99

Veteran Crafted Bottle Opener with Cap Catcher

Whether he’s a beer drinker or just a fan of bottled beverages, he’ll think of you every time he cracks open a cold one! Made of sturdy locally-sourced wood in upstate New York, this wall-mounted bottle opener can be personalized with your father’s initial/name or a favorite short saying—up to you!

$29.99 AMAZON

WOWBOX Overnight Weekender Bag

This duffel bag’s eatures include a detachable, cushioned shoulder strap, side strap, and a water-resistant shoe compartment that can also be used to keep dirty or wet clothes separate. Your father can carry this for travel (it’s carry-on sized), as a gym bag, or both—a perfectly practical gift!

$63.88 AT AMAZON

Love and Luxe Handmade Wood Monogram Flask

He’s not a regular dad, he’s a suave, James Bond kinda dad. That’s why you’re giving him this sleek, sophisticated wood hip flask, complete with monogram. Because he’s just that cool.

$14 AT ETSY

Tie Bar Navy Travel Tie Storage Case

A stylish spot to stow his ties and remind him of his favorite daughter? Father-of-the-bride gift: found.This sleek pick doesn’t take up much room and has space for pocket squares and cufflinks, as well!

$35 AT TIE BAR

Sentimental Father of the Bride Gifts

Haysom Interiors Father of The Bride Whiskey Glass and Coaster Gift Set

If he’s a whiskey man, gift your father a glass to toast with at the wedding—one that can’t be mistaken for anyone else’s. This set comes packaged in a box emblazoned with “Thank you for helping to make our day so perfect,” as well as a coaster with an equally sweet sentiment. Cheers to that!

$24.99 AT AMAZON

BOBO BIRD Mens Personalized Engraved Wooden Watch

Cool and rugged with a hidden mushy message on the back, this stylish wooden watch captures both sides of your dad. Choose from a pre-written note from daughter to father, or customize it with your own words, then present it to him in its sleek accompanying wooden gift box. 

$52.99

Udobuy Father Of The Bride Socks

Novelty socks are a father-of-the-bride gifting staple and he’ll love wearing this sentimental pair to walk you down the aisle on the big day. The handwritten-style font also gives them a personal vibe, which will help get him right in the feels—and make for great photos!

$8.99

Susan Newberry Designs Custom Father of the Bride Dance Wedding Photo

Although you’ll have to wait until after the wedding to give this gift, it’ll be worth it to see your dad’s reaction. A canvas or photo print of your father/daughter dance and the song lyrics, too? Someone pass the hanky, please.

$35 AT ETSY

All About You Creations Father of the Bride Cufflinks

If he’s super sentimental, father of the bride gifts with old-school photos (think him-pushing-you-on-the-swings kind of thing) are what you’re looking for. Cufflinks are pretty traditional as far as gifts go, but he’ll never expect this special pair that will give him the feels and then some.

$22 AT ETSY

The Little Paper Boat Father Of the Bride Print

A personalized print of you and your dad taking that all-important walk is guaranteed to get him right in the heart. Just choose custom details like your hair color, body type, skin tone, and dress style, then do the same for your dad’s look, and add a short sentimental message if you like. The result: a work of art that will be ready for you to give your papa on the big day—no waiting for wedding photos required!

$23 AT ETSY

Lifetime Creations Engraved Personalized Father of the Bride Pint Glass

Raise a glass to the first man in your life! A pint glass engraved with his most prestigious role as father of the bride (and the date) will come in handy both at the reception and for years after. Bonus: This shop offers options for stepdads, grandparents, mothers, and more.

$15 AT ETSY

Loce and Lace Hankies Custom Photo Tie Patch Label

Add a special touch to your dad’s tie! A patch made with a photo of you and him, as well as an embroidered note, makes the sweetest personal gift. “This was the perfect addition to my father’s gift,” wrote one reviewer, “He was so surprised! It came quickly and was super easy to sew on.”

$19 AT ETSY

River Roots Collective Personalized Father of the Bride Picture Frame

Choose from 15 rustic wood backgrounds, black or white text, and create a clip frame perfect for a wedding-day pic of your and your dad. The sentimental message is total father-of-the-bride material, but you can customize the quote to your liking, too. Idea for the day of: Present it to your pops with a childhood photo of you and him, to be replaced with a wedding snap.

$28 AT ETSY

The post The Best Gifts To Give The Father Of The Bride appeared first on Scary Mommy.