The great thing about technology is it’s possible to combine that nostalgia with the use of tech we have available today like your laptop or your handphone. Tabletop games that you played as a child are available in apps and online all over.
Versions of solitaire and mahjong have taken over many websites. Some of them even have hundreds of different solitaire or mahjong options available to play. If you’ve been yearning for a little dose of your favorite games from your childhood you’re definitely in luck. Here’s a list of ten tabletop games from your childhood that now exist for you to play online whenever you want.
1. Solitaire
Just like you read about in the intro, online solitaire is a hugely popular game. It started with Windows making solitaire available on all of their computers. Soon everyone was playing regular solitaire or something like to pass the time. Now there are so many versions of solitaire online that it’s almost impossible to keep up with all the new options.
The great thing about online solitaire is that you don’t have to worry about setting up the cards. Just click a link and go. Sometimes the computer even moves cards like an ace without you having to do anything at all. Solitaire was already a quick play game but it’s even faster now. If you’re bored and only have a few minutes to kill, this is your new go-to online game.
Related: Exploring the Different Types of Board Games + REAL Examples (2018) by Byran Truong of Game Cows
2. Mahjong
There’s even a readily available version that mixes the rules of mahjong and solitaire for a “best of both worlds” situation. If you’ve already played a few rounds of solitaire and you’re ready to change things up, check out online mahjong. You’ll be glad you did.
3. Battleship
That’s right, you can play this classic game online any time you want. Your opponent will be a computer but that doesn’t always take all the fun out of things. The guessing and excitement of trying to sink the computer’s battleship still make this a really fun game to play.
There are a few websites you can play Battleship on, so try searching for “battleship game” and pick your favorite results to test out. It’s another quick game to play usually, and since you don’t have to worry about spilling hundreds of tiny pegs all over clean up is a breeze too.
4. Chess
Even as a kid you could’ve played this game on your own. A lot of chess players say their best opponent is themselves. Playing against a computer might be a close second, however. There are a lot of variations you could test out to play chess online. You can play anything from classic chess to 3D chess with just the click of your mouse.
5. Checkers
While we’re talking about basic but beloved board games we can’t forget about checkers. You can play checkers online at many different websites. Some are very basic versions that look just like the game you set up yourself. Others involve tons of graphics, interesting music, and even interactive storylines. No matter which option you choose you’re sure to enjoy this throwback classic game.
6. Sorry!
You read that right. You can play the childhood favorite, Sorry! online and there are some pretty cool ways to do it. Some versions just let you play against several other computer opponents. Others actually involve playing an online multiplayer version of this classic game. You can play other players from around the world who are all just as excited to experience a little nostalgia while they relax.
7. Scrabble
Since we’re already thinking about multiplayer online games that are online versions of our childhood favorites, we can’t forget Scrabble. Yes sometimes it goes by other names (like Words With Friends) but the basic gameplay remains the same. You can definitely find a few websites where you’re just playing a computer, but the multiplayer versions add a lot of new thrills.
8. Clue
Digitized versions of this super fun game have existed since before you could even find it online. SNES had a Clue game available to play in the early 90s but there was nothing quite like playing this murder mystery the old fashioned way. You can play Clue online, and even play a computer version of the SNES Clue too.
Whether it’s Colonel Mustard in the kitchen with the candlestick or Miss Scarlet looking suspicious, you’re sure to have some good (highly nostalgic) fun playing Clue once again. This game just never goes out of style.
9. Monopoly
All the fun and excitement of the original tabletop version is available online. Once again you’ll have the option to choose between computer opponents or a multiplayer experience. While playing a computer might save you some time, the real fun with playing Monopoly online is the multiplayer option. Everyone has a different strategy to win, and it will keep you on your toes.
10. Risk
Remember how vicious a good game of Risk could be? It can be that way online too. You can play versions that are done in real time, or ones that are turn-based. The turn-based games give you a chance to make a move and come back when you have more time to play, so if you’re busy but still want some board game fun, that’s a great thing.
Conclusion:
No matter which classic game you choose to play you’ll have a great time. Solitaire and mahjong can be done quickly and on your own. Monopoly or Risk gives you a chance to experience new players’ style and strategic maneuvers. You might even get a chance to up your skill level for the next time you play the real deal. Give it a chance and go with your favourites. Enjoy!
]]>Now, let’s fast-forward about 20 years into the future! Over the last couple of years, I have had the privilege of being exposed to the educational technology industry (to put it in a more easily understandable term, we call it STEAM/STEM Education). STEAM Education also stands for the following subjects:
- S – Science
- T – Technology
- E – Engineering
- A – Arts
- M – Math
All of which I happen to share a really deep passion for.
What is the Goal of STEAM Education?
Before we actually dive into what Strawbees is and what I believe they can ultimately offer, I want to give you a quick overview of the STEAM Education space and this would also help to set the foundation and context for many of the future articles that I’ll be writing for Brajkishore blind.
STEAM Education aims to provide equal opportunities to people, young, old, professional, non-professionals, to have a chance at being exposed to different skills within the different fields that was mentioned above. As the rest of the world progresses rapidly towards what we call, the Industrial 4.0, the required skillsets for our next-generation of talents have to be different from the ones that we’re already familiar with today. Important skillsets includes problem-solving, critical thinking, learning from failures, communication skills, and risk taking, are now considered some of the most in-demand soft skills for our children in 10...20 years’ time when comes time for them to step into the respective industries.
Rather than giving you the atypical STEAM Education sales pitch, I’m going to focus on what truly matters & also the reason why you should be paying attention to it.
Real Skills for the Real World
Speaking as a former practitioner, I am also a strong advocate when it comes to the concept of continuous learning. I’m a very hands-on person by nature, which means that I tend to focus a lot more on creating something with the skills that I have learned rather than just focusing on the theory side of things. The greatest inventor of our century, Albert Einstein said that “playing is the greatest form of research [learning]”. As children, many of us are already picking up various skills that we would later apply it into our daily lives that will help us to either solve problems, or think imaginatively, leading to the invention/innovation of new ideas to make the world a better place for others.
Beyond the soft skills, we also want our children to be equipped with some of the more important technical skills which can also be applied and used to help solve many of our real-world problems today (and in the near future). With STEAM Education & the brand/products involved, these children/youths will now have the means to transform their ideas into potentially real-world models. And these skills will also follow them into their work life when the time comes.
Strawbees: “Dream Big. Build Bigger”
Strawbees: “Dream Big. Build Bigger”That’s just something that I read on the cover of the “Crazy Scientist Kit” by the brand Strawbees. One of the things that I love about Strawbees is the fact that the team behind the brand has found a way to turn these simple straws into a product that allows anyone to start connecting the individual construction pipes (that’s the term that we will be using throughout the rest of this article as well as future articles) and create some pretty amazing structures and objects. What is even more amazing is this – with the additional programmable components like the Quirkbots, LEDs, SERVOs, learners will be able to give life to their Strawbees projects. Now, you can even build a moving car out of construction pipes & rotational servo motors. In one of the ideas that I am working on with a private coaching student of mine, we even have the idea of building a drone using nothing but what is available with the Strawbees kits as well as adding a few extra motors/fans.
Now, to be totally fair, we have absolutely no idea if this drone idea of ours is ever going to take flight like how we imagined it. But one of the most important aspects of STEAM Education is helping the learners to understand that they don’t have to get it right the first time. And sometimes, it is okay to fail. Many of the greatest ideas and inventions in real life have experienced multiple failures/learning cycles before they even get to the final production stages.
Currently, I am also actively using Strawbees as one of the brands when it comes to providing my own personalized private STEAM Coaching. For example, during one of my coaching sessions, I would construct a collapsible cube using the construction pipes to explain what skewing an object means. And it was also part of the effort to help explain a mathematical concept to the child.
One of the Most Value-adding STEAM Education Brands
In closing, I believe without a doubt that Strawbees is one of the most value-adding brands in the industry. If you were to make a comparison in terms of pricing, I have to admit that they are probably one of the most affordable brands/products. But just because they are low on the “price tags index”, it doesn’t mean that they are any less good. In fact, some of the parents I have spoken to that have also invested in Strawbees for their own children have felt that Strawbees is a brand that provides nothing by a value-added learning experience, because they finally understand now that where Strawbees is concerned, it is always about connecting more than just straws.
In my next article on Strawbees, I plan to dive much deeper into what the products are capable of, especially with the use of the various electronics components from the Coding & Robotics kit. And I’ll also be happy to prepare a series of articles that will share some of my personal tips & ideas of what you can do using the different product components! So make sure you stay tuned!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
If you could touch and feel every idea or piece of art your mind conjured, wouldn't that be just splendid? Or maybe something that you created in your drawing book years ago could finally be turned into a tangible masterpiece?
Technology has significantly changed the way we work, and the way we produce and imagine things. Ideas don't have to be just ideas; there are enough tools and gadgets available that can help us turn them into actual products and objects.
Breaking away from two-dimensional images and art, a 3D pen (or 3D printer pen) brings your work out of the paper and gives it an actual structure of its own. Using plastic, which is basically materials like ABS, PLA or Flexy as the “ink” to create art. 3D printing in today's world is a whole other ball game!
You can draw on a particular surface and move upwards, creating a perfect 3-dimensional image that you can touch, feel and see like an actual object.
Related: 3Doodler PRO, the future of 3D Printing is now!
How does it work?
The pen needs to be connected to a power source to work. Once connected and turned on, the plastic material moves through the pen, goes through a patented melting and cooling process, and then comes out through the tip. You can use it to draw either in the air or on a flat surface as well.
These devices are pretty innovative and can be used to create some stunning work. Art enthusiasts all over the world have been using these pens and experimenting with its capabilities. So, if you’re looking to buy a 3D pen, there are a number of brands and variants in the market to choose from. However, since this is a relatively new technology, you must be careful while making a purchase.
3D printing in today's world has been revolutionized to become very much accessible to people. You could check here to see what are the best options in 3D pens in the current market. Choosing the right 3D pen for you has all to do with what you want to create, how comfortable you are using one, how much you're willing to spend on it, and so many other factors.
For now, let's look at the pros and cons of using a 3D pen:
The Pros:
- Whatever idea you have in mind, you can turn it into an actual, live creation using a 3D pen. There are several tutorials that show you how you can do this in the most efficient way possible. And they also come with vibrant filament colors, so there's nothing to stop your imagination.
- 3D pens are not very expensive for what they are able to do. These come at a nominal price, and most brands don't price them too highly. This means that even if you're just fascinated by the idea of a 3D pen and want to try one out, you can always purchase one and not feel the pinch of it if you don't use it regularly.
- 3D pens can be used by absolutely anyone. Right from professional artists to enthusiasts who aren't too great at drawing but still want to give it a shot, anyone can buy a 3D pen and enjoy its features. There are also some brands which have specifically designed a range of 3D pens that can be used by beginners and even kids above a certain age.
The Cons:
- Getting the hang of using a 3D pen can take some time, and doing it without any guidance or freehand would be quite a waste of time (and filament) for a beginner. And, considering that filaments are not as cheap as ink or lead for a pencil, you do have to be a little more careful while experimenting with a 3D pen.
- Although these pens are very handy, they aren't exactly very comfortable to use. Some users have complained about noise while using, the filament coming out too slow, the model not drying fast enough, the mechanism of using the pen being too complicated, and so on. So yes, there are a few downs to it, but the end result isn't too bad.
Conclusion
All-in-all, one can't deny that 3D pens are pretty cool, and open up a whole number of new opportunities for artists and enthusiasts. If you want to know more about these pens and where to get them, you could check here. With proper research, understanding of the technique, and maybe even some video tutorials, you could easily explore a whole new world of creation with a 3D pen in hand!
Balance bicycles, or no-pedal bikes, are the perfect gift for children aged from as young as 18 months to 5 years old. Traditionally, parents have opted for trikes (pedal bicycles with training wheels) to teach their children how to ride, but in recent years balance bikes have proven to be much more effective in building strength, balance and coordination.
But with so many brands out there in the market with different features, which balance bike is the best fit for your child? There are so many factors to consider, such as the weight, tyres, ergonomics, adjustability, cost, and more, making it confusing for parents looking to buy a balance bike for the first time. To make your job easier, here’s a lowdown on the options for every child and budget.
Related: Top Educational Toy Stores In Finland
1. Chillafish
Chillafish balance bikes come in 2 main models - the Bunzi Gradual Balance Bike for toddlers from 1 to 3 years old, and the BMXie-RS balance bike for older children aged 2 to 5 years.
Modelled after BMX bikes, the lightweight BMXie-RS is undeniably cool-looking. It’s constructed from durable and high quality fibreglass-reinforced material, but the best feature of the BMXie-RS has to be its Airless RubberSkin tyres. Made from foam with an outer rubber layer, they allow your child to cruise along almost any terrain without the risk of flat or punctured tyres! The optional footrest, which can be tucked back and locked, is also a handy function.
For the young ones, the Bunzi is 2-in-1 balance bike designed for toddlers, who can start in the 3-wheel mode, then advance to the 2-wheel position. Entirely built from durable plastic, the Bunzi is able to weather rough pavements without getting scratched. However, the seat can’t be adjusted and steering is stiff, so toddlers will outgrow the Bunzi pretty quickly.
Website: https://brajkishoreblind.com/collections/chillafish-balance-bikes
Price: $
2. Happy Bikes
Style meets functionality at Happy Bikes, another vintage-style bike brand in the likes of Lekker.
As with steel-frame bikes, Happy Bikes are heavy at 4.9 kg, which makes it ideal for children from 2.5 years old and older. The added stability from the metallic frame allows kids to zip around in ease and comfort.
Arguably, the best part about Happy Bikes is their quality pneumatic tyres, which provide the best cushioning and traction especially on outdoor terrains. Seats and handlebars are fashioned from vinyl to ensure comfort during prolonged use.
Did we also mention cool gadgets like a whimsical bell painted to match the steel frame, and add ons like a wicker basket, shoulder straps and jazzy helmets? For trendy parents, Happy Bikes are the perfect gift for their children.
Website: https://brajkishoreblind.com/collections/happy-bikes
Price: $$
3. London Taxi
The London Taxi balance bike is a stylish and functional choice for children between 2 to 5 years old. At 3.5 kg, the bike is able to carry children up to 30 kg, and comes with EVA foam tyres.
There are a couple of features that allow London Taxi bikes to stand out from the crowd of similarly lightweight steel frame and foam tyre bikes. Firstly, handbrakes are available for children to stop safely while zipping around at speed. What’s more, it also comes with a bike stand for hassle-free parking - a truly unique feature that is not commonly seen in the market.
Price: $$
4. Cruzee
Ergonomically one of the best designed and lightest balance bikes around, the Cruzee Ultralite has plenty of space between the handlebars and seat, allowing leeway for your child to run and glide comfortably while stretching out his or her legs. Another well-thought feature that enhances mobility is the small gap between the rear tyre and the back seat (set at the lowest position).
Did we also mention that this beautiful bike comes in 10 colours for your child to choose from? However, while the Cruzee’s anodised aluminum frame is rust-proof and ultra lightweight, it also scratches easily. The foam tyres are maintenance-free and puncture-proof, but do not provide the same cushioning and traction as air tyres.
Another important thing to note is that Cruzees are not equipped with brakes, and might be not be ideal for children practicing in preparation for pedal bikes. But for toddlers just starting to balance and run, Cruzees are arguably one of the best balance bikes you can find in the market.
Website: https://brajkishoreblind.com/product-category/balance-bikes/
Price: $$
5. Joovy
The award-winning Joovy Bicycoo has to be one of the coolest bikes out there. With a stylish design meant to mimic mountain bikes and fantastic contrasting colour schemes, kids can’t help wanting to jump straight onto it and start riding!
The merits of Joovy Bicycoos aren’t just aesthetic, though. It’s a top-notch aluminum lightweight bike put together with quality in mind. The high quality braking system allows your child to stop instantly and safely without the need to put their feet on the ground; wide pneumatic rubber tyres creates extra cushioning, good traction and better stability as compared to foam or plastic tyres.
What leaves to be desired about this bike is the limited seat adjustability, making it unsuitable for taller or older children who outgrow their balance bikes quickly.
Website: https://brajkishoreblind.com/bicycoo-balance-bikes/
Price: $$
6. Wishbone
The best thing about Wishbone 3-in-1 balance bikes is its ability to adapt to the growing needs of your child. With its range of seat heights thanks to the patented rotafix™ joint, the Wishbone converts from a tricycle to a small and large balance bike. This means toddlers from as young as 12 months, to children up to 5 years old can use the same bike.
The focus of the company on environmental sustainability is worth a mention here. Not only is the Wishbone created to reduce consumption, the bike frame is made from kiln-dried, preservative birch wood and packaged with recycled materials. You can even jazz up your sleek Wishbone balance bike with a selection of accessories, from nameplates, seat covers, to even stickers!
Wishbone bikes are more pricey compared to other models out there in the market. But if you take into account the cost and hassle of switching bikes every few years or bike sharing among siblings, it’s is well worth it.
So what are the cons of the bike? Wood (albeit waterproof) frames are slightly less durable than metal ones. In addition, the longer wheelbase limits the agility and turning power of the bike, so it’s not recommended for more nimble and adventurous kids.
Website: www.wishbonedesign.com
Price: $$$
7. YBIKE
YBIKEs are constructed from quality, durable plastic that is very lightweight and can withstand big impacts. What’s more, its huge rear wheels enhance stability and allow the bike to stand by itself. But whether this added stability is a plus for learning balance is open for debate.
In comparison to the price range for balance bikes in the market, YBIKEs are arguably one of the more value-for-money brands, which allows children to quickly start running and gliding.
However, the bike scores less well in terms of ergonomics, comfort and adaptability. The hard plastic tyres provide little traction and cushioning while your child navigates bumps and tries to cruise. As such, it’s only suitable for indoor use. Plastic seats are also uncomfortable for long rides.
Athletic children might outgrow this bike pretty fast, and with limited adjustability and maneuverability, parents might have to purchase another balance bike soon after getting a YBIKE.
Website: https://brajkishoreblind.com/collections/wheel-goods-ride-ons-scooters-more
Price: $
8. Lekker
Dutch vintage bicycle brand Lekker introduced their line of Mini balance bikes in 2017. Undoubtedly stylish and available in 5 cool colour schemes, diehard Lekker fans can now wean their hiplets into pedal bikes in true blue Dutch style.
For its quality, Lekker Minis are priced reasonably. These bikes boast a lightweight aluminum frame and padded seats and handlebars, allowing your child to run and cruise in comfort.
The only drawback is that the Lekker Mini is suitable for children from 2 to 5 years old, with seats adjustable from 40 cm to 50 cm. Brakes would be a great addition as well, for more athletic kids looking to do tricks and glide at speed.
Website: https://brajkishoreblind.com/kids-balance-bikes/
Price: $$
9. Strider
One of the lightest models in the market, Striders have acquired a sturdy reputation of quality at a decent price. Generally, Strider bikes are a popular choice because of the ease in riding and maneuvering.
Besides being well-constructed, these steel frame bikes are versatile and adaptable to suit a range of age groups, with optional add-ons like extended seat posts and extra-long handlebars. Another plus point would be the well-designed footrests that don’t interfere with striding movements, which is rare for balance bikes.
However, while the Strider’s foam tyres are puncture-resistant and help keep the bike lightweight, they provide less cushion for active children who love navigating a variety of terrains and obstacles.
Website: https://brajkishoreblind.com/
Price: $$
10. YVolution Velo
The great thing about the YVolution Velo is that the rear wheel is made up of 2 wheels for added stability, which are detachable as your child becomes a pro at cruising. The rubber tyres are puncture-free, work slightly better than foam tyres for cushioning and traction, and are great on a range of terrains - from indoors, pavement, grass to footpaths.
Recommended for children from 18 months to 4 years, there are different height settings for the seat and adjustable handlebars.
Although it’s built with an aluminum frame, it’s slightly on the heavy side at 3.8kg. However, a good safety feature is the steering limiter, which controls and degree of turns and prevents accidents. Overall, a great budget choice for parents looking to get their children started on the art of cruising!
Website: https://brajkishoreblind.com/en/Balance-Bikes-c60.html
Price: $
11. Haro
The Haro Z10 Prewheelz balance bikes are available in 2 models - the Z10 and Z12. While both bikes are built with adjustable handlebars, the main difference is in the tyres.
The Haro Z10 comes with foam tyres for toddlers’ indoor use, while the more advanced and larger Haro Z12 is equipped with knobbly air tyres for older and more active children. The latter provides more durability, cushioning and traction for prolonged gliding outdoors and training. A great addition to the Z12 would be brakes for children learning to go at speed and stop!
However, the biggest issue with the otherwise great quality Haro Prewheelz bikes is the protruding footrests, that hinder running movements and scratch children’s legs. Similarly, exposed bolts are also a cause for concern.
Website: https://brajkishoreblind.com/kids/bikes/2014-kids/z-10-prewheelz-2014
Price: $$
12. JD Bug
Japanese brand JD Bug balance bikes are constructed with safety in mind. Practical and modern-looking, the TC90A model in particular is convertible from a balance bike to a pedal bike. It comes with a pedal gear box, which can be attached once your child becomes a pro at cruising and balancing.
What’s more, JD Bug bikes are built with lightweight aluminum frames, come with hand brakes and doesn’t have any unnecessary footrests, which might obstruct running movements and scratch your child’s legs.
The cons? Seats are made from plastic, which could be uncomfortable after prolonged periods of riding. The TC90A comes with air-filled tyres, which work well on a variety of terrains, but the training models are equipped with plastic tyres.
Website: https://brajkishoreblind.com/
Price: $$
13. Brilrider
Touted as the ‘world’s lightest balance bike’, Bilrider balance bikes are made of airplane grade aluminum. The Bilrider Flight model in particular weighs only 1.9 kg, while the AF and Classic models are less than 3.2 kg. The Eva tubeless tyres contribute to the ultra-lightness of Bilriders, which makes it easy for your child to maneuver and lift the bike if needed.
More great functions for Bilriders include: easily adjustable handlebars and the ability to calibrate seat height from 11” to 16” for children of varying ages and heights.
However, Bilriders can be difficult to assemble compared to other brands, and the lack of brakes make it hard for adventurous children to stop safety when cruising at speed.
Website: www.brilrider.com
Price: $
14. KaZAM
Footrests are generally not desirable features as they tend to hinder children’s strides, but KaZAM’s patented footrests are strategically and safely designed to be non-obstructive.
A little on the heavy side at 5 kg due to the steel frame and handlebars, KaZAMs can be difficult for smaller or weaker children to handle, but are perfect for athletic kids between 3 to 5 years old.
However, with adjustable seats and handlebars, your child can grow with his or her KaZAM up till 5 years old, eliminating the need to purchase another costly balance bike. The tool-free quick release allows for easy adjustment.
KaZAM bikes also come in models with brakes or without brakes, depending on your preference. Another great safety feature are the covered bolts, which avoid wear and tear of bolts that cause scratches and minor injuries.
Website: https://brajkishoreblind.com/
Price: $$
15. Zycom
Like the Chillafish, Zycom balance bikes come in 3 models for varying ages. However, all Zycom bikes are built with steel lightweight frames.
The ZBike in particular for children aged 3 years and up comes with their trademark 12-inch classic Zycom tyres. Made from quality thermoplastic rubber (TPR), the unique tyres allow your child to navigate different terrains or obstacles with low resistance and a great grip.
Another great safety feature for the ZBike is the integrated headset stoppers, which prevent 90-degree turns. That way, you can be rest assured that there is no risk of sudden stops and crashes while your child is riding!
Website: www.zycomotion.com/
Price: $$
16. Luddy
The most budget option out of the bunch, Luddy balance bikes won’t burn a hole in your wallet and are great for testing if your child likes using one before splurging on higher-end brands.
That being said, while Luddy bikes are great basic options, the low cost also comes with a tradeoff in terms of quality. Weighing below 3 kg, Luddy bikes are made from either lightweight steel frames or durable plastic, but don’t perform well in terms of maneuverability and comfort.
Luddy bikes are equipped with plastic and foam tyres, which are less than ideal for cushioning and traction. They’re also not ergonomically designed for mobility and flexibility when it comes to cruising. This means that for more active children who like to zip around, parents are better off considering other options.
Website: https://www.facebook.com/pg/luddybikemalaysia/
Price: $
17. Evo
The Evo Beep Beep is perfect for children aged between 2 to 4 years old. With a durable steel frame and ergonomic design, it has pedal bike features which makes it a step above other balance bikes. The best part about this balance bike is the knobbly air tyres, which rides well on a variety of terrains.
At 4.7 kg, it might be a tad hefty for petite ones, but works well for stronger and more athletic children. Tools are also required for adjustment, and exposed bolts might scratch children’s legs. Otherwise, the Evo Beep Beep is a good choice for cost-conscious parents looking for a balance between price and quality.
Website: https://brajkishoreblind.com/EVO-Beep-Kids-Balance-Bike/dp/B01MS8H8E5
Price: $$
18. Papa
Papa is a less well-known brand when it comes to balance bikes. However, this does not mean that quality is lacking.
Suitable for children from 18 months to 5 years old, the extremely lightweight 2.9 kg frame is built from aluminum. As your child grows, you can adjust the seat to suit their height. What’s more, this hardy bike is able to carry weight of up to 50 kg.
Papa bikes are equipped with EVA foam tyres which is maintenance-free, but best for indoor or smooth paved outdoor surfaces.
Website: https://brajkishoreblind.com/collections/balance-bikes
Price: $$
19. Micro
Light and small, Micro balance bikes are perfect for speedy 2 to 4 year olds. The beautiful Swiss design is apparent in its sleek and ergonomic aluminum frame. In addition, the small tyres allow Micros to roll much faster than other balance bikes.
Weighing below 3 kg, they are also one of the most lightweight models available, making it easy for children to handle. The Micro Chopper Deluxe in particular weighs only 2.2 kg. However, while children can glide along smooth pavements at ease, Micro bikes are not made for rocky terrains or non-paved outdoor surfaces.
Website: https://brajkishoreblind.com/browse-balance-bikes
Price: $$
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Play is generally agreed upon to be something that children do quite naturally and instinctively. Most times, children play alone or with other children, with adult intervention being a rarity. While parents may find it hard to find the time and energy to become involved in play with their children, they need to take note of the fact that their involvement in play is rather important in their child’s development.
Research has suggested that the most creative children are those who have had adult involvement present during their playtime. The most productive play happens when an adult takes an active role and plays alongside the child, rather than simply providing the toys and supervising.
Dipping your feet into this may seem quite daunting at first, because we are taught as adults to stray away from childish behavior and immature things. As adults, we have the answers to a range of difficulties that children may encounter when they are trying to make sense of their smaller worlds through play. While it is important that children conjure their own solutions overtime, adults can give clues to help them before they become frustrated enough to leave the activity.
Try some of the following ideas to help your children reap the most out of their play:
Related: Prevent Childhood Obesity by Weaning your Kids, Playing it Old School in a Modern World
Observe & Perceive
Initiate the activity by observing your child closely. This will give you an insight into his or her skill levels, their personal interests, and their favorite activities. This will in turn, enable you to selectively choose toys and games that are more appropriate for your child, while catering to their delights.
Get Involved & Participate
Take part in the activity at hand, and allocate yourself into an active role. Better yet, allow children to allocate a role to you, as many often like to do. This will also place children in control of the activity so that they can ultimately adjust, control, and determine the direction of play.
Stretch Imagination & Boundaries
Children have vivid imaginations, the type that many of us lost as we moved into adulthood due to the confinements of society and the limitations of reality. Therefore it is important that when playing with young children, we try to see the world through their eyes; with no boundaries. Rediscover the child within you.
Most Importantly, Have Fun
Playing creates time for you and your children to feel good about being around each others company, to benefit from the bonding session, and to understand each other better through fun. So most importantly, don't forget to have fun while you're at it!
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Matthew Alexander is a free soul. At least, that’s what he thinks. In reality, he’s a Mass Communications graduate, a pop-culture addict, and an aspiring writer. If you can’t find him over analyzing that latest art-house film or obsessing over his current acoustic creation, he’s probably unpretentiously doing yoga.”
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Parents today are busy people and feeding your toddler from a bottle is a habit many do not think much about but before you continue, do take note of a study done by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). It states that there is a connection between prolonged baby bottle usage and early childhood obesity in a longitudinal study of 6,750 children.
In the study conducted by the AAP, they found that 22% of the children sampled had continued to use baby bottles regularly after 24 months, and a quarter of these children became obese by the age of five-and-a-half.
To prevent this, the AAP recommends all parents to start weaning their kids before they are 18 months old. The ideal period to start weaning is between 12 to 14 months old, and to break the habit of giving the kids a bottle of milk before bed.
The bottle before bed habit being an issue as when you start transitioning your toddlers to solid food, the baby bottle becomes an excess calorie intake. This is because the toddlers will crave for the milk from the baby bottle out to habit.
Related: Playing it safe: Toy safety issues you need to know, Have your kids tell their own bedtime stories
To break the habit of your toddler’s before bed milk cravings, here are 4 recommended tips:
Tip #1: Transition from baby bottle to a cup
Your toddler might be resistant to the idea of exchanging their baby bottle for a cup. So to ease them into this change, give them a sense of ownership and take them shopping for their own cup and better yet, let them design or decorate their cup too. In addition, let them know how proud you are that they are now all grown up by the transition from bottle to cup.
Tip #2: Have a regulated schedule
To wean them off the bottle, reduce the number of times they get the bottle a day. Maybe even to specific times or places. In addition, when they yearn for the bottle, give them a cup of milk instead.
Tip #3: Engaging them
Preoccupy your child by playing with them. Tobbles Neo, meant for kids aged 0 to 2 years-old, provides a tactile experience for your toddlers so that they can stack, balance, and spin the uniquely shaped toys.
The idea behind this is with the bottles out of sight, the child will not be constantly reminded of the bottle and, hopefully, get used to it not being used at all. In the times they do, another trick is to offer an alternative like a cup or other appealing food options.
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May Anne loves stories in all forms -- books, mangas, TV shows, movies, dramas, games. A consumer of anything sappy and romantic, it's a wonder she hasn't gone blind from the tears she's shed. She also loves tofu, TVXQ, and watching cute animal videos.
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The days of pink and blue aisles may soon be a thing of history, as many toy outlets are hopping on the gender neutral trend these days. While gender-enthusiast applaud such movements, and others seem rather on-the-fence about the whole idea, researchers have from time to time come out to back up the benefits of exposing children to gender neutral toys.
According to a previous research study done by Dr. Elizabeth Sweet; a sociologist and lecturer at the University of California, “Gender toys do shape children’s play preferences and style. Because gendered toys limit the range of skills and attributes that both boys and girls can explore through play, they may prevent children from developing their full range of interests, preferences, and talents.”
Sweet emphasizes on the point that de-gendering toys has its benefits, as she states that this will simply enable children to have the freedom of choice to explore their diverse interests beyond the narrow confines of gender stereotypes. For instance, she mentions the fact that if you simply remove a sign that reads ‘Girls Building Set’, it doesn’t prevent a girl from picking that toy but rather, it allows both girls and boys to have the desire to choose it.
Such effects seem to be parallel to Let Toys Be Toys, a UK based campaign that was primarily established to focus on eliminating the gendered labeling and marketing of toys. A visit to their website reveals information pertaining to the effects of gender labeling toys such as, “The stereotypes we see in toy marketing connect with the inequalities we see in adult life. By late primary age, research shows that children already have very clear ideas about the jobs that are suitable for boys and girls; ideas that are very hard to shake later on.”
Related: Playing it Old School, in a Modern World
It may appear that a simple trip to a toy store could end up teaching young girls that their inevitable end goals in life are to be able to cook and to look after the babies, all while keeping themselves looking glamorous and beautiful. On the other end of the spectrum, boys might leave the toy store believing they should behave more rough, tough, and rowdy, while their interest should always be more centralized on adrenaline-filled action.
Ultimately, children should get to decide for themselves what they think is fun. Whether it’s a girl finding the joy in playing with a fire truck or a boy curiously feeding imitation milk to a plastic baby, there’s no denying that both of these children can learn a thing or two from play.
E: [email protected]
Matthew Alexander is a free soul. At least, that’s what he thinks. In reality, he’s a Mass Communications graduate, a pop-culture addict, and an aspiring writer. If you can’t find him over analyzing that latest art-house film or obsessing over his current acoustic creation, he’s probably unpretentiously doing yoga.”
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