Archives for the month of: September, 2016

For most parents, choosing the best mattress for their child can be rather confusing since there are so many different types of mattresses available. Without a right mattress, sleeping could become a problem for your child. At a glance, mattresses may all seem the same. However, there are few things you need to consider before making the decision to purchase.

1. Growing widespread concern regarding the effects of potentially harmful chemicals.

As your child will spend about ten to twelve hours a day sleeping on their mattress for many years, it is best you avoid heavily-treated mattresses containing polyurethane foam, Eco-foam (which is mostly polyurethane foam), vinyl (PVC), phthalates, chemical fire retardants or barriers and industrial chemicals. Many chemicals may release gases from the mattress and be inhaled by your child.

2. Mattresses that are made of organic and non-toxic materials are ideal for children. A good choice is a mattress made with organic cotton or organic wool fabrics and filling. Children are especially sensitive to toxic chemicals so care should be taken to limit their exposure.

Remember that not all organic mattresses are alike. For instance, “natural latex” or “coir” may actually be allergenic for your child. Look for a mattress that has earned the recommendation or certification of a reputable organization.

Avoid vinyl, nylon, polyurethane. Ask for FDA food-grade polyethylene, the safest way to waterproof and dust mite proof a mattress.

In addition, you will want to purchase a good firm mattress. A firm mattress provides a child with proper support for their growing bodies which is recommended by pediatricians.

3. Certainly, price is also a factor. A cheap mattress would mean that your child could end up loosing sleep when the springs start to poke through or when the mattress starts to sag.

Make sure to do a research and focus on the materials used.

4. It is not a good idea to use a hand me down mattress. Be aware that if the mattress is no longer comfortable for an older sibling, it will not be good enough for a younger child as well.

5. Always buy a mattress with an extended warranty. Kids often jump on their beds, and this could cause damage.

To extend the life of your new mattress, be sure to turn the mattress regularly and use a padded mattress topper on it to reduce wear. A breathable mattress protector to keep the mattress dry as well as free of dust and perspiration is a wise idea. Be sure to change the sheets regularly and vacuum the mattress occasionally.

Remember, a good comfortable mattress enables your child to sleep more peacefully and this in turn will help him or her to be attentive during the day. So, shop around and pick the best children mattress available within your budget.

Folks ask us almost everyday about how the different sizes of mattresses vary. Here is some basic sizing information:

·         Mattress Sizes

o        Twin–39″W x 75″L or 99 x 190 cm

o        X-Long Twin–39″W x 80″L or 99 x 203 cm

o        Full–54″W x 75″L or 137 x 190 cm

o        Queen–60″W x 80″L or 153 x 203 cm

o        King–76″W x 80″L or 198 x 203 cm

o        California King–72″W x 84″L or 182 x 213 cm

·         Fitted Sheet Sizes

o        Twin–39″W x 75″L or 99 x 190 cm

o        X-Long Twin–39″W x 80″L or 99 x 203 cm

o        Full–54″W x 75″L or 137 x 190 cm

o        Queen–60″W x 80″L or 153 x 203 cm

o        King–76″W x 80″L or 198 x 203 cm

o        California King–72″W x 84″L or 182 x 213 cm

·         Flat Sheet Sizes

o        Twin–66″W x 96″L or 167 x 243 cm

o        X-Long Twin–66″W x 102″L or 167 x 259 cm

o        Full–81″W x 96″L or 205 x 243 cm

o        Queen–90″W x 102″L or 228 x 259 cm

o        King/California King–108″W x 102″L or 274 x 259 cm

·         Comforter Sizes

o        Twin–68″W x 86″L or 173 x 218 cm

o        Full/Queen–86″W x 86″L or 218 x 218 cm

o        King/California King–100″W x 90″L or 254 x 229 cm

Our personal shoppers are always available with free advise to help you find the proper mattress for your child. Give us a call 952-881-2425.

With the arrival of fall just around  the corner and  Starbucks now serving their Pumpkin Spice Latte, are you ready for the season? This recipe for fun may put you and the kids in the mood. We have found a Pumpkin Latte Playdough for your little ones that just may become a new autumn classic at your house. Dinosaurs and Octopuses has the recipe for fun this week.

Here it is:

Ingredients
1 cup flour
1/2 cup salt
1 cup water
2 tbsp oil
2 tbsp cream of tartar
1/3 of the jar of pumpkin pie spice (the tiny jar)
maple extract
vanilla extract
food coloring

Combine the dry ingredients and the oil. Slowly add the water. Add a few dashes of each of the extracts and a few drops of red and yellow food coloring. Cook over medium heat, stirring until stiff. As it mixes you can see if you’ll need more food dye. Adding a little at a time until the desired color is  achieved. Turn out onto wax paper. The pumpkin pie spice was too spicy by itself, for my liking. The extracts make it smell sweeter, just like a pumpkin pie. Sniff the dough. Does it smell too spicy? Add a little bit more extract and knead it all together. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. If it’s too dry, add a few drops of water.

Betsy, you must give this a try for Katherine.

Anyone looking for a copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Latte recipe? Give this one from the Kitchn a try!

Pumpkin Spice Latte
makes 1-2 servings

Ingredients:
2 cups milk
2 tablespoons canned pumpkin or 1 teaspoon of Torani Pumpkin Spice Syrup (your choice)
2 tablespoons sugar or sugar substitute – you can halve this amount
2 tablespoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1-2 shots espresso (about 1/4 cup of espresso or 1/2 cup of strong brewed coffee if you don’t have an espresso machine.)

Directions:
In a saucepan combine milk, pumpkin and sugar and cook on medium heat, stirring, until steaming. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and spice, transfer to a blender and process for 15 seconds until foamy. If you don’t have a blender, don’t worry about it – just whisk the mixture really well with a wire whisk.

Pour into a large mug or two mugs. Add the espresso on top.

Optional: Top with whipped cream and sprinkle pumpkin pie spice, nutmeg, or cinnamon on top.

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Join Totally Kids fun furniture & toys for a day of Family Fun on Saturday, November 12th as we celebrate National Neighborhood Toy Store Day.

We are proud to be your Neighborhood Toy Store and we’re throwing a party to celebrate! Please join us!

Exclusives

Fun for the Whole Family

Bring the kids…and the grandparents and tell your friends to meet you here.  This is an event you will not want to miss!

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There will be so much to do, from trying out our favorite toys and games, to winning contests and featuring face painting by Cindy Lou!

Refreshments and snacks will be served.

Play fun games and win prizes. Each child who donates a new or gently used toy for families economically challenged by the affects of Autism will receive 50% OFF their favorite toy or game.

Register to win an Eco-friendly car!

All children will go home with a FREE prize.

Our experienced staff is looking forward to showing you the hottest toys for this holiday season.