Thursday, February 25, 2010

GET TO THE HEART OF THE CONVERSATIONWITH 10 TIPS ON HOW TO TALK WITH KIDS, INSTEAD OF AT THEM

O-MAMA says: “Say What You Mean and Mean What You Say”. O-MAMA.com, short for Opinionated Mom, is a new online resource for news and events from a mom’s perspective.

Founder, Michelle Tingler says, “We believe ‘Opinionated Mamas’ can be a constructive voice in sorting out the social and political issues of our time and that together, with a little humor and a lot of common sense, America's moms can get to the heart of the issues that matter most to our kids and our country. Most importantly, moms need to know how to communicate these issues to our kids, so that the lessons we are conveying stick with them as they grow, so they will be happy, healthy, well-adjusted citizens. We need to make sure CHANGE BEGINS AT HOME."

Here are O-MAMA’s founders, Michelle Tingler and Debbie Devine, top 10 tips to effectively communicate with your kids:

1. KEEP IT SIMPLE:
Communication is key in any relationship, but it has to be really straight-forward, clear and consistent when you are talking to your kids. So, "say what you mean." Think about what you want them to DO, and then express it clearly, simply and concisely. Otherwise, they tune out and hear wah, wah, wah. When dealing with kids, it’s best to just lay it out there and not leave it up to interpretation. No beating around the bush. No hemming and hawing.

2. GET ON THEIR LEVEL:
Make sure you and your child are physically on the same level, so everyone is eye to eye when speaking. Otherwise, they'll get distracted looking at your zipper! Also, eyeball to eyeball says you mean business and you can be sure they've gotten the message.

3. ALLOW FOR LISTENING:
Speak slowly enough for them to be able to take in what you are saying. When you are finished, ask them if they’ve understood what has been said. If they are unclear, ask them to explain what they think you said...it's kind of like the game telephone...try not to laugh!

4. THERE ARE TWO SIDES TO EVERY STORY:
Take into consideration their point of view. Everyone has their unique perspective on any given subject and kids are no different. They might have an interesting insight into how they perceive the issue, how they felt at the time or what might work for them next time in terms of keeping themselves in line. Their solution might be totally off base, or might have some merit. At least be open to hearing their side because it will empower them to communicate better...and that might even encourage them to behave better.

5. MESSAGE RECEIVED
Give them a chance to acknowledge the message. It makes children and adults alike feel good to be heard, and a simple acknowledgement like “I understand what you said” or even an “I heard you, but I disagree” helps further communication.

6. DO YOUR HOMEWORK
When stating an opinion on an issue, or explaining why something could be harmful be prepared to back it up, especially when dealing with teenagers. Do your homework. Know the subject in and out. Have some examples to throw out...fancy stats are good, but pictures are worth a thousand words! (i.e., when talking about the importance of safe driving, show them a picture of a car wreck). Earn respect by demonstrating that consideration has been given as to why this is a “big deal.”

7. FOLLOW THROUGH
“Mean what you say.” Do not make idol threats. When outlining consequences to a behavior, make sure they are realistic and be prepared to follow through. Consistency is key. If the follow through is wishy washy, it will not be credible.

8. SET THE EXAMPLE
Good communication requires both parties, regardless of age...pecking order...relationship, using and demonstrating common sense and mutual respect. “Do as I say and not as I do,” does not get the job done with kids. Be prepared to talk the talk and walk the walk.

9. DON’T TO BE AFRAID TO SAY NO
Remember, you don’t have to be their friend, they don’t have to always like us, they just need to know we love them all the time, and sometimes that means saying "NO!” Sometimes saying no can be the most loving thing you can do.

10. MOM KNOWS BEST
Go with your gut. No one knows your kids like you do. You know what’s in their best interest, so be confident in what and how you communicate.


To see Michelle and Debbie in action, click here to view their latest video:


http://www.o-mama.com/videos

MAKE YOUR HOUSE THE COOLEST ON THE BLOCK

Top 10 Summer Must-Haves from Sporting Goods Leader Bravo Sports

When it comes to having fun outside, Bravo Sports Corp, the global leader in retail sporting goods markets, can turn your house into THE summer hot spot on your block with their Top 10 Summer Products for kids, tweens, teens and even the young at heart. With over 2000 products ranging from in-line skates to beach accessories, instant canopies to pogo sticks, Bravo Sports can get the whole family equipped for summer fun.

“Each parent has one goal – they want to get the most bang for their buck when it comes to buying toys and recreational items for their kids,” says Bravo Sports CEO Tony Armand. “They want to buy products that kids love to play with over and over and over again. We at Bravo Sports strive to make products that are fun, engaging and get kids outside.”


1. 12’ Trampoline: Every cool house needs one of these. Kids love it and know exactly what to do no matter what age they are. Hours of jumping fun for all ages, learn new tricks and exercise at the same time. $300


2., 3., 4. Skateboards and ramps and rails: Instead of playing video games, the kids can have their own mini skate park at home. This is a great way for the neighbor kids to interact and become friends. It doesn’t matter if you are into Barbie, SpongeBob or Tony Hawk. We have a skateboard for all levels of experience and all ages. (pictured: Tony Hawk Birdhouse Skateboards ($80-$100), X Games Skate Ramp ($39.99) and Kinked Grind rail ($44.99).

5. Monster Pogo – A retro favorite with 2010 technology, this new pogo stick will keep kids busy and laughing as they bounce. $39.99

6. Extreme scooters like the Slither Drift Scooter: A whole new level fun. Drift around corners, slide side to side, propel yourself without kicking, tear in and out of turns. It is the update to the ordinary scooter. Even though some younger kids can rider this scooter, this is perfect for kids 8 years and up who want to try out some new tricks. $59.99

7. Bubble scooter: Who doesn’t like bubbles? Perfect for the younger set, they can watch bubbles float in the air as they scoot down the sidewalk. $42.99

8. Tuscany Cabana – A perfect place for an outdoor picnic in your own backyard while protecting the kids from the sun. Also provides instant ambiance for backyard parties and summer dinners. $229.00

9. Quik Shade GO Hybrid Backpack Canopy and coordinating Quik Shade™ Articulating Canopy Chair – The first canopy designed for individual use. So light and compact, it will go with you everywhere from the beach to the soccer field – you can even wear it riding a bike!($79.99) Coordinating Articulating Canopy Chair ($39.99)

10. Convertible Trainer Skates -The new 2-1 Trainer Skates are great for beginners ($24.99). Available at Toys R Us in September, they come in the following themes: Cars and Disney Princesses

Need Luck of The Irish? California Blooms Offers Green Roses For St. Patrick's Day

For the Finest & Freshest Boutique-Grown California Roses http://www.californiablooms.com/


Get California Blooms Free iPhone App and save 20% http://www.itunes.com/app/californiablooms

Halsea Debuts Sunset Collection

Nothing says summer fun than a hit of pink.


Halsea, the beach chic travel bag and accessories company, is highlighting the Sunset Collection for gals on the go, summer vacationers and those who just want to feel like they are living the Jet Set life even it really means just traveling for work! www.halsea.com




Wednesday, February 24, 2010

The Raves Keep Rolling in! 2 Gerber Babies Loves the Pulse Slither!!

Thanks to Julie and Logan Gerber for giving the Pulse Slither Drift Scooter a spin and a rave review!!  We're so glad you liked it!! 
Read Julie's review at http://2gerberbabies.blogspot.com/2010/02/slither-and-slide.html





Logan, let's see some video of your cool tricks!!

http://www.pulsescooters.com/

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

O-MAMA Hits the FRONT PAGE of the OC Register!!

READ ALL ABOUT IT! ON TODAY'S FRONT PAGE OF THE OC REGISTER, O-MAMA's Michelle Tingler and Debbie Devine share the history and vision of Opinionated Mama with the Register's Theresa Walker... Click below to read the whole story!

MOM'S OFFER ADVICE FOR D.C., POLITELY

Monday, February 22, 2010

O-Mama.com Featured in REDBOOK MAGAZINE!

If you are looking for a friendly debate when it comes to politics, look no further.






In case you haven't gotten your March issue of Redbook yet - go get it now!  On page 112, Michelle Tingler and Debbie Devine, the founders of O-Mama.com (Opinionated Mama) are featured in a great article called "Launching A Friendly Debate".

An online resource for news and events from a mom’s perspective, O-MAMA.com seeks to bring common sense back to our country’s most important conversations by identifying and correcting the disconnect between the messages in the news and events of the day to the lessons we teach our kids at home.

Thanks Marisa Cohen and REDBOOK for writing such a great article!





 

About.com Features The Bubble Scooter On Kristen's Toys Blog

Thanks, Kristen!  We love this Bubble Scooter from Bravo Sports too!

Thursday, February 11, 2010

Our HERO!! - Homemaker Hero Wants to Save Your Valentine's Day with a Bouquet Giveaway of California Blooms Roses

Another fabulous blogger - @HomemakerHero wants to make your day with a FABULOUS giveaway for a dozen beautiful, eco-friendly California Blooms roses for Valentine's Day!!

Check out this adorably retro blog for all the details!! And be sure to tell Courtney "Thanks" for the Valentine's Day treat!!!


Thanks Homemaker Hero!! You're our Hero!!



Wednesday, February 10, 2010

From Coast to Coast - California Blooms is delivering Valentine's Day Love!!




As Wendy, from Examiner.com's Minnesota Romance states -- Every girl NEEDS roses on Valentine's Day!!

And California Blooms is just the way to deliver!

Examiner and California Blooms are offering you a chance to win a Valentine's Day bouquet for the special someone in your life... see details below to win! and click the link to get the whole story!!


WIN FREE ROSES FOR VALENTINE'S DAY!!
"As mentioned earlier, one of the many reasons I'm loving California Blooms is the fact that one of you will win one dozen roses, in the color of your choice, for Valentine's Day! Enter by sending an email with the subject line "CalBlooms" to romanceexaminer@gmail.com. In the email, include your preferred color of roses and contact information. You must enter by 11:59 p.m. Central on Thursday, Feb. 11, to win."

Thanks for the Love Wendy!!   And good luck to everyone who enters!!!

Slither Scooter by Pulse Featured on Mom's Focus


Thanks Mom's Focus for reviewing the Slither!

Sugar Pop Ribbons Reviews The Slither Scooter


Thanks Sugar Pop Ribbons for reviewing the Slither drift scooter!

Sunday, February 7, 2010

There's An App for VALENTINE'S DAY! Deal Seeking Moms and Appolicious Recommend California Blooms!

California Blooms, the premiere online retailer of boutique-grown, eco-friendly California Roses has launched their NEW Cal Blooms iPhone App for iPhone, iTouch and soon the all new Apple iPad.

The superior quality and sophisticated presentation of California Blooms, along with the convenience of mobile ordering, has earned them recommendations from several blogs including Deal Seeking Mom, Appolicious, My Favorite Everything and others as a key element to making your Valentine's Day a success!!

Click the links below to read the whole story!!

http://www.appolicious.com/articles/1285-these-iphone-apps-let-you-plan-ahead-for-a-perfect-valentine-s-day

http://www.dealseekingmom.com/valentines-day-gift-guide/
http://www.myfavoriteeverything.com/2010/services/the-most-beautiful-roses/?utm_source=My+Favorite+Everything+Subscription+List&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=7af3d7f48a-RSS_EMAIL_CAMPAIGN

Valentine's Day is just a week away!! Order your CALIFORNIA BLOOMS TODAY!