I can’t believe I’m saying this but summer is rapidly drawing to an end and the 2022 – 2023 school year is right around the corner that means like millions of other students my baby will be going to school..
FOR THE FIRST TIME AT 3 YEARS OLD!
Of course, we had to do back to school right, and thanks to the great people over at Mibasies we did just that!
We’ve decked these kids out in adorable, extremely well made very functional back-to-school items everyone needs from backpacks fit for the smallest of students to lunchboxes pencil cases, and elementary school-sized backpacks for everyone.
Entire MATCHING SETS of fabulous back-to-school staples!
I love how well-constructed these items are as well as their beautiful print options.
Yes, some things are made to match but there are so many different options that you could comfortably mix and match to suit your child’s likes and desires.
You can tell that there is a lot of attention to detail and durability as well as ease of use and parent-child peace of mind.
We know kids will sit things down and lose them and this detail-oriented company has thought about that. Their items have name labels on or inside them preventing total loss should something be dropped, misplaced, or left behind which I LOVE!
The lunchboxes even have buckle handles, exterior water bottle pocket access, and sturdy zippers even the smallest children can use with ease without worrying they’ll break or won’t be able to access their lunch without a struggle. Made from strong and water-resistant polyester fabric with an insulated interior and reinforced stitching these are top-tier lunch bags to fit ANY STYLE! They come in different liter sizes to suit the age of your child and even have interior mesh zipper pockets with three-layer insulation!
(Seriously, as an adult I’m living for some of these products myself and my kids are just as excited!)
The sparkling unicorn lunchbox suits my Girl SO WELL & the adorable positive affirmations listed on the back of the lunchbox are a bonus. it even has a carrying strap she can use to carry it like a purse!
The pencil cases are crush-proof and made of The same sturdy durable material and stitching we’ve come to expect from mibasies as it Carries nicely across all of their products, with an interior removable divider and mesh pocket there is more than enough room! Trust me parents skip those bulky plastic pencil boxes this year we all know they fall and break every chance they get!
I love that you can even label the exterior with your children’s names these were made with PRACTICAL use in mind and I as an educator and parent am totally here for it all!
I love these backpacks and I’m super pleased with the quality and versatility, you don’t find many kid’s backpacks that are both entertaining and aesthetically pleasing while simultaneously being sturdy and functional.
There are several pockets even with the backpack geared towards preschool & kindergarten age and all are well embroidered with the mibasies brand that doesn’t detract from the quality or cute factor.
During my youngest son‘s recent surgery we even took his new Mibasies dinosaur print preschool backpack to the hospital with us! We got so many compliments and it served us so well even on such a chaotic day. Holding everything we needed for him including snacks in the front insulated lunchbox pocket that is attached as one piece to the backpack itself. Which is something we thoroughly enjoy. our Dino lover was not disappointed!
Really words or product photos don’t do this much justice! Even the glitter products are made with STAY PUT GLITTER so your child gets all the glam and personality with none of the fallout mess!
You’ve got to see these products for yourself I could talk all day about the aspects that I love but nothing compares to seeing them in person or seeing your children regardless of age light up with excitement for the upcoming school year.
We are so grateful for our continued partnership with such great companies and so thankful to add the amazing people at mibasies to that list.
Thank you again for the opportunity to post this with permission and share my experience with your products with all who will benefit. These products are worth EVERY PENNEY. We will be long-term customers of Mibasies in every avenue!
If you weren’t already convinced One of my new favorite retailers for all things school can be found on Amazon and even hosted impeccable deals as part of this year‘s prime days.
These products are stylish, functional and giftable we will definitely be purchasing more products from them as the need and desire arises.
Buckle up y’all, this review is going to be a long one. as most of you know my partnership with handcraft has been long-running. we’re talking nearly since the creation of Tatorthoughts long!
And just when I thought it couldn’t possibly get any better they prove me wrong!
When you think handcraft by now you probably think potty training genius, children’s underwear and convenient on the go change kits. And if that’s what you think about you would be absolutely right! But they are so much more than that, of course potty training with confidence is a big priority but evidently so is generosity. This review is proof of that.
My good friends at handcraft have completely out done themselves, in honor of back to school they have generously sent me thousands of dollars worth of merchandise. (see detailed list below) but let’s discuss why. You’re probably thinking “what’s the big deal?, it’s just underwear.”
But it’s so much more than that many children have nervousness and anxiety over starting back to school, or starting school, or changing schools, or even just change in general. A change like this is huge!
And even the best potty trained of us will experience an accident at some point regardless of age. So handcraft and I have partnered together to end the stigma around accidents of all kinds & For kids of any age regardless of the circumstance!
You might be thinking to yourself “my child is “too big” for that” you would be wrong.
en·u·re·sis
/ˌenyəˈrēsis/
noun
involuntary urination, especially by children at night.” See also nocturnal Enuresis.
Nocturnal Enuresis commonly referred to as bedwetting is most recognized in smaller children however it can affect people of any age, regardless of gender. However the inability to control your bladder especially in tense upsetting situations isn’t as commonly recognized and it’s nowhere near talked about enough!
This can affect people of any age regardless of how long they have been or even how well they were potty trained.
27% of parents whose children presented a problem sought medical attention for it, it is seen in nearly 29% of all children. It is more common in males and you are more likely to have it if you have a prevailant family history of it, But with so few willing to talk about it how would we know?
I am a mother before I am anything but I take being an educator very seriously. It is my duty to not only advocate for my own children, but all children.
I’m open enough to discuss that this is something that directly affects my family. I’ve also seen it heavily affect the children that I’ve taught. There is no shame. There is no stigma, not with me, within my family or in my teaching environment because THERE SHOULDN’T BE!
If it’s up to me to advocate and educate then I will, but clearly I won’t be doing it alone. The amazing folks at handcraft stand with me!
And we haven’t even scratched the surface this is only talking about diagnosed Enuresis, but what about the fear of a new place, being too afraid to ask for permission to go to the bathroom or even for directions to a bathroom, anxiety or any other chronic medical condition that could cause any type of incontinence whether it’s urinary or otherwise.
If it’s not us who shows these children grace regardless of their age, my question to you is who will? No bodily function warrants scolding and it might be an unpopular opinion but I stand by it. Sheets and clothes can be changed, messes can be cleaned, but you cannot undo emotional damage from scolding a child for something that they have no control over. Parents and teachers please be mindful of this as your children are sent back into the world of education no matter what that looks like for your family.
Advocacy is clearly very important to me as well as this amazing company. they were so kind to send me so many wonderful things and I can’t wait to share them all with you!
I’m sure everyone is familiar with Champion brand authentic athletic wear but did you know that champion is handcraft?! Until our partnership I had no idea I knew I loved their products on the shelves but I had no idea whatsoever just how many things handcraft as a company has a hand in!
(pun intended)
They were so kind as to send me not one not two.. but FORTY-ONE PAIRS of authentic champion athletic socks!!
Needless to say there will be no cold or Barefeet around me anytime soon!!
This in and of itself blew me away, but they didn’t stop there and the box that arrived at my door May as well have been the Mary Poppins bag of all shipping boxes!
They sent me 73 pairs of underwear! Ranging in size from 18 months to medium 10/12!
They also sent me 6 Handcraft change kit plus packs as well as 7 original handcraft change kits.
Guys they sent me the equivalent of an entire washing machine load! Needless to say when any accidents do occur on my watch and believe me they will. there will be no shortage of preparedness, we will not only be ready we will be proud! Accidents signify being human although they might be slightly embarrassing I can tell you one thing that definitely eases that sting.. The incredible print options they sent me! (Honestly I wish I could wear some of these.)
But.. THERE’S MORE!
We all know we’ve been living in The COVID-19 pandemic, for quite some time.
Handcraft sent me 3 packs of kids facemasks! While my children may be too young for masks themselves, I know more than enough children who aren’t that actually need masks!They’re washable!, super cute and all kid friendly!
And just when you think we’re done.. we’re not!
Not only did they send me everything above they continued to show they care about their partners and the community by sending me several promotional products!
Handcraft sets the bar extremely high especially in the generosity department!
Potty training and crappy days in general can be quite stressful they sent me 14 custom branded poop emoji stress balls And 2 incredibly squishy handcraft underwear logo shaped stress balls.
My friends at handcraft had no way of knowing about my Neurodivergence or the Neurodivergence in my family but they hit the nail on the head with this one! Not only are these incredible for sensory purposes they make great additions to any classroom treasure box.
They sent me three individual prize packets containing a very well-written congratulatory letter, A three pack of primary colored crayons, two potty training genius custom coloring pages, A company product informational slip, and a very unique punch out magnet photo frame for when your child becomes a potty trained genius! I look forward to giving these to three special families!
Along with those they so kindly sent 30 additional potty training genius magnets and something that made my 90s kid heart flutter with complete unadulterated joy!..
They sent me a handcraft branded pin art board in the shape of their underwear logo!
Needless to say everything is appreciated but I will proudly display the pin art board on any desk I have until the end of time!
To recap here’s an entire list of this seemingly endless cornucopia that I am extremely grateful for, it seems like Thanksgiving and Christmas came early this year!
-1 pack 3ct girls training pants Disney princess print size 3T with bonus potty training chart and stickers included
-1 pack 3ct girls training pants Disney jr Minnie Mouse print in size 3T with bonus potty training chart and stickers included
-1 pack Disney Junior Mickey and the roadster racers print toddler boys training pants size in 18 months with bonus potty training chart and stickers included
-1 pack Disney Junior Mickey and the roadster racers 3ct toddler boys training pants with bonus potty training chart and stickers
1 pack 3ct washable children’s facemask in DC Batman print
Now that we’ve gotten into the specifics of their overwhelming generosity, everything this review includes & why this review is as necessary as any other back-to-school feature you’ll see this season, let’s discuss quality. handcraft sets the bar sky high and not only do I think that’s a great example for our children I think we as parents and caregivers can take pride in knowing that our families use, support and value their products with ease and peace of mind. even from the tiniest of tush that’s ready to potty train they’ve got you covered! Their thick absorbent , Soft and nearly plush potty training underwear are exactly what any child needs to have the independence of big kid status with the protection that they may need as they learn.
their potty training change kits give grab-and-go simplicity to preparedness, giving parents peace of mind and one less thing to worry about so that no matter where your adventure takes you your family is always ready.
The all-inclusive potty training Genius kit gives a child all the tools they need to succeed, in a fun interactive and easy to understand way. Just add praise and support from loved ones and watch them flourish!
Their underwear of all types accommodate all shapes and sizes. Giving kids regardless of age or gender comfort that comes adorned with their favorite characters!
Their socks regardless of style give comfort and confidence and parents can take heart knowing that their children are covered from head to toe in the Best. these high-quality socks are the right fit for all with varying thickness options and cuts you’re sure to find what works best for you.
The partnership with my friends at handcraft has been one of the most enriching and enjoyable experiences I can say that I’ve ever had. they’ve been so kind and shown so much support for not only me but for my dreams over the last two years and I could never repay that of course I will always be a proud supporter of any product they create because I know without a doubt it will be great. They have been nothing short of an absolute joy to work with and a blessing in my life. I find myself short of the words to accurately describe the feeling so simply put it’s pride. Not only am I overflowing with gratitude I’m proud of the work that we’ve done together and the work that we could continue to do and my only hope is that they as a company are equally as proud of what we’ve managed to do together. The change we’ve been able to create,the awareness we’ve been able to give and the incredible products I’ve been able to display in front of all of you thanks to their generosity and Faith in my abilities.
Thank you to both Julia and JoAnn from the bottom of my heart, from all of us at Tatorthoughts and every family who has benefited from your company’s existence.
so I challenge you next time you visit your local preferred store look around I promise you’ll see handcraft products that you and your children love.
If you take away anything from this review please let it be that being prepared is simple, being kind is easy, and no matter your story, background ,or need handcraft has you covered. I hope all families regardless of the path that this year takes for them have an incredible school year, whether you’re starting school this year or you’re graduating for the final time here’s to the class of 2022!
Please visit their website embedded below for more information!
My family and I are proud supporters and participants of Kellogg’s feeding reading program: offering free penguin random House books to families and schools.
As part of the feeding reading program if you buy a box you get a book you simply submit your receipt on their website after creating an account and for every eligible item on your receipt you receive a point for a free book limit six per participating registered account but you can either choose to keep or donate your books to a school of your choice. The books are either shipped directly to your home or to the school of your choice depending on which option you choose.
I as a parent and an educator I know the importance of literature availability regardless of age and it’s such a wonderful thing to see companies like Kellogg’s freely offer the joy of reading through programs like this.
As for my family we chose to take our six credits and keep four, to foster the love of reading in our home and donated two to our favorite local school to put more books at the finger tips of children looking to learn and explore through the art of reading literature.
While you’re out shopping preparing for kids going back to school and gearing up for lunches and snacks on the go look to your favorite brands and see if your family could earn a free book just by doing the shopping you already do! My guess is you’ll have no trouble.
Buy a box, create an account, submit your receipt & choose your free book!
It really is that simple..
Visit the link below to register and submit your own receipts the joy of reading is a few clicks away!
*Send each receipt separately. Receipts must be submitted within 14 days of purchase and no later than 10/14/21. Book credits must be redeemed by 10/31/21 at 11:59 PM (ET). Limit 6 books per participant. Must be a U.S. resident, 16 years of age or older, and a registered member of Kellogg’s Family Rewards®. See FeedingReading.com for full list of participating products.*
Huge thank you to kellogg’s for understanding the value of books and for this opportunity!
My almost 2.5-year-old Raiden is somewhat advanced for his age. Yet it still took me by complete surprise that he began to come to me daily and ask for “school”
Maybe it’s because nearly all his friends are school-aged, or maybe it’s that he knows mama is a teacher and sees me work or even a combination of the two. (or something else entirely?) but regardless the driving force my child has a hunger to learn and grow! Praise heavens for that!
So being the educator and above and beyond extra mom I am I had to make his dreams of an early school come true,
Even if I had to make it happen at home!
So that’s exactly what we’ve done!
We turned out dining room into a designated & decorated learning space,
Invested in trusted resources (reviews on curriculum coming soon!)
and we even bought him his own backpack with a lunch box!
-Melissa & Doug magnetic calendar and chore chart set
-Interactive learning posters
-conversation invoking child-friendly decor
And more to come!
Mind you this is only to get us through the 2021-22 school year. The goal for next year is to have a completely separate dedicated space for school but as parents you find a way or you make a way!
Can’t wait to share this journey with you all as we help prepare Raiden for his public pre-K & beyond journey that’s only 2 short years away!
So here is a sneak peek into where we’ll be learning incredible new things and making precious memories together over the next 10 months.
We also ventured as a family to the southeast homeschool expo at the cobb galleria center this past weekend and had a wonderful time, I’m a better parent and educator for going and genuinely enjoyed the time we spent as a family learning and growing together! During this time Tatorthoughts met some interesting people and made some great new contacts also!
Any parent knows back to school means multiple things; a season change (literally and metaphorically) ,and a major shopping trip being two of the first to come to mind.
Aside from the supply lists that change every year and the new backpacks & lunchboxes kids always need new shoes.
In my personal experience we’re buying our kids shoes 3-4x a year about once a season if you will, I know it’s because they’re little and grow so fast at this stage but even with older kids 2-3x per year seems to be the norm.
With that being said, can you guess what we did? That’s right! Raiden got new shoes!
This is the kid who’s feet are like lava 90% of the time, he’s not a huge fan of tight shoes or certain fabrics but we’ve been blessed to find him several pairs of shoes from different brands that he loved, he wore these things until his feet simply wouldn’t fit into the shoes, cute but hard to explain to a very particular toddler.
As much as he loved his Oshkosh bump toe shoes, ikiki squeaky shoes and monster loafers from Carters when he started to outgrow his most recent pair of all-terrain quick drying simi-flexible hiking shoes we started looking for a pair similar to what he’s loved in the past. Which lead us to these on Amazon. Sold by KIZWANT these size 9 canvas sneakers are one of nine style options and of course we went with sharks because our boy loves sharks and shoes!
Amazon has its perks for sure, but with some things it’s buyer-beware at best this isn’t one of those! Let me tell you these were an instant win with Raiden! He’s in between sizes so these fit great with room to grow and when I tell you I followed that store as fast as I possibly could so we can order more for him later I was probably just as excited as he was! All parents want to see their kids happy and well cared for but it’s a huge thing when parents of kids with sensory issues see that kind of happiness in their children after such a struggle with something so necessary as shoes.
These shoes are still sturdy enough for any activity he’d do, the lightweight shoe with flexible sole and flattering design was everything we were looking for and then some!
If you’re interested in ordering some for your child, most of these styles are gender-neutral and have a 10-20% off coupon from time to time, depending on style & size selection. You can find them directly using the link below:
My friends at the children’s place set the bar high for summer vacation style!
My family is no stranger to Children’s place as we’ve always loved their styles & durability not to mention how affordable they are!
For this haul, we got 18 items, well over $300 USD in merchandise for less than $80! And free shipping thanks to their always free shipping 24/7 365 guarantee with no order minimum EVER!
They always have sales running especially online so quality for a great price is always consistent!
These clothes always wash and wear super well, my kids love them and they fit true to size on my tiny but tall daughter and my off-the-charts two-year-old son!
They also offer mommy & me and daddy & me matching dresses & shirts as well as countless family wear opinions to make sure your whole crew; parents, grandparents aunts & uncles included! Show up in style!
Got kids in schools that require uniforms?
Do kiddos need a new backpack & lunchbox? No problem Children’s place is a one-stop shop for back-to-school apparel!
Need church or special occasion dress clothes for your littles? They got you covered there too!
We love children’s place from head to toe! (Literally, from hats & headbands to socks & shoes)
They also have accessories to match their pieces and even display combinations on their website for paring inspiration!
We needed birthday party shirts for Sawyer’s first birthday they had us covered!
Kids all grow super fast, why spend a fortune when you can get clothes, shoes & accessories you and your kids will love? When you can shop with children’s place for a fraction of the cost for the same (sometimes better quality than you would at high-end department stores
To top it off every dollar you spend works in your favor! Earn points for the money you’re already spending and cash in those rewards for money off your next purchase, and you’re not paying to ship so that means FREE PRODUCTS, just for spending what you already do!
Their customer service is great, if you ever have a problem you can reach out and they’ll handle it, AND if you get something for your kids or yourself that doesn’t fit or you don’t like it as much in person you can return in for free in-store, you really can’t lose! RUN! Download the my place app on iOS or Android and create an account. Shop those deals y’all!
Back to school deals coming soon that you DON’T wanna miss!
