Over the past couple of months, I have posted several times about Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes and the fact that they've teamed up with Bill Nye the Science Guy to teach children about the importance of clean, germ free hands. Not only is this the time of year when sickness seems to be on the rise, but Kaelyn is at an age where she is becoming more and more independent and she needs to see why washing her hands is so important.

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivOMBSjGR2RQubucAXKo6o1a1QUUSTuIbk7ad6vSY5H7JLYfJhOSggJTu5QbFDysiMuzZkeuWni2G9rJtU9j55Ac4nHDlg_EjE5UC5H-w8n9xjf4Rtptqp2XEFK3XOUOkEBDI55zIt1xz4/s1600/Picture%252B9.png

Although she knows she needs to, having the opportunity to do four fun germ experiments really has helped her see why it's important. She didn't know a whole lot about germs before we began, but with each experiment I see her understanding more and more. We were sent a Wet Ones Healthy Hands Zone kit with all the necessary supplies to conduct each experiment.

With the first experiment, we discussed how germs get around and the second experiment touched on how quickly they multiply. Over the past couple of weeks we have been working on the last two experiments, discussing the spread of germs from the things we touch.

The Bread Can Be Food for You, or for Germs experiment designed by Bill Nye the Science Guy required the use of paper towels, water, 3 sandwich bags, 3 slices of bread, dirt and Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes.

We tore a paper towel into three pieces, dipped each in water and placed them in a plastic sandwich bag. We then did a touch test with three slices of bread. For the first Kaelyn touched the bread after rubbing her hands in dirt. The second she touched the dirt, washed her hands with soap and water and then touched the bread. And, the third she touched the dirt, wiped her hands with Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes and then touched the bread. Each slice was placed in a labeled bag, sealed shut and placed in a dark, warm place for about a week.

The Grow Your Own Germs experiment required the use of one bouillon cube, powdered sugar, gelatin, muffin cups and muffin pan, saucepan, water, foil and antibacterial hand wipes. In a saucepan we mixed the bouillon, sugar, water and gelatin and brought it to a boil. We then divided the mixture evenly among the five foil muffin cups and covered with foil, placed in refrigerator and let cool. Once it was cool, Kaelyn touched different surfaces and then touched the gelatin cups. The first, she touched the cup with her fingers. The next three she touched different surfaces (door knob, car door handle, toilet handle) and then touched the gelatin cups. For the final cup, she wiped her hands with Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes and then touched it. We labeled each cup, placed them in a warm dark place for about a week and then examined them.

The following video shows the results from each of these fun experiments.


As you can see, the results were pretty obvious. With the bread we could see mold growing on the piece of bread that we touched after playing in the dirt. The other pieces of bread (soap & water and Wet Ones) had very little growth. This is because keeping hands clean is the best way to keep them free of germs.

With the gelatin cups, we also saw the importance of keeping our hands clean. There was a lot less growth in the cup that we used Antibacterial Hand Wipes before touching. These experiments were not only a great way to show Kaelyn the importance of washing her hands, but was also a good reminder for me as well. Neither one of us liked seeing the mold and growth on the bread and gelatin cups which has helped encourage us even more to wash our hands frequently throughout the day. Thankfully, even though we're on the go a lot...we know we can count on Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes to help keep our hands clean and kill 99.99% of germs.
For more information about fight germs and Wet Ones Antibacterial Wipes...be sure to visit the Wet Ones Healthy Hands Zone. It's full of great information and video demos of the germ experiments by Bill Nye. I've enjoyed browsing around and have really learned a lot. It's easy to navigate a site I'd recommend to anyone with children.

Be sure to check back, as I'll be posting about the other two experiments and how they went very soon.

**Energizer Personal Care provided the supplies and Flip UltraHD video camera for this review at no cost to me. This review is not being administered or sponsored in any way by Playtex or its affiliates, but solely by A Mom's Balancing Act. Any questions or comments regarding this review must be sent o me at A Mom's Balancing Act and not to Energizer Personal Care.**



Gnomeo & Juliet Prize Pack Giveaway (TWO Winners!)

Posted by Jenna | Monday, January 31, 2011



You may have heard about Gnomeo & Juliet, a cute Touchstone Pictures movie opening in theaters everywhere February 11th in 3D! It is a comical, off-the-wall makeover on Shakespeare's classic tale of Romeo & Juliet set to the music of Elton John.


Movie Synopsis:

The greatest love story ever told, starring...garden gnomes? In the upcoming “Gnomeo & Juliet,” Shakespeare's revered tale gets a comical, off-the-wall makeover. Directed by Kelly Asbury (“Shrek 2”) and showcasing both classic and original songs by Elton John, the film features the voices of James McAvoy and Emily Blunt as Gnomeo and Juliet, who have as many obstacles to overcome as their quasi namesakes when they are caught up in a feud between neighbors. But with plastic pink flamingos and thrilling lawnmower races in the mix, can this young couple find lasting happiness?

I think it looks like a really cute movie, and after seeing the following trailer, am sure it's one that both adults and children will enjoy.


Genre: Animation/Comedy Adventure
Rating: G
U.S. Release Date: February 11, 2011

Win It: TWO very lucky readers are each going to win a Gnomeo & Juliet Prize Pack which includes:
  • 1 Youth Size Gnomeo & Juliet t-shirt
  • 1 Gnomeo & Juliet one-size fits all beanie
  • 1 Gnomeo & Juliet mini-notebooks shaped like a Gnome hat (front cover is red, back cover is blue)
Mandatory Entry - Leave a comment letting me know who the prize pack would be for if you won.

Extra Entries: (Only valid after the mandatory entry has been completed. Leave 1 comment for each extra entry)

1. 1 extra entry- Like the Gnomeo & Juliet Movie on Facebook

2. 3 extra entries- Blog about this giveaway (linking to this post and Gnomeo & Juliet) and leave THREE comments with the URL to that post.

3. 1 extra entry- Follow me on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway (You can tweet once a day for one extra entry every day)! You can copy and paste:

#WIN a Gnomeo & Juliet Prize Pack (TWO Winners!) #momsbalancingact http://bit.ly/hzYyMJ Ends 2/9

4. 3 extra entries- Post my blog button or blog URL to your blog and leave a comment with the URL to your blog. (If it already is, leave me a comment letting me know)

5.
2 extra entries- subscribe to A Mom's Balancing Act via e-mail (found along the side column) and leave TWO comments letting me know.

6. 2 extra entries- 'Like' A Mom's Balancing Act on Facebook

7. 2 extra entries- Follow my blog publicly on Google Friend Connect

8. Enter any of my other current giveaways. Leave me a comment on which one(s)....ONE entry for EACH giveaway you enter!!

9. 1 extra entry- Share about this giveaway on your Facebook status by including a link back to this giveaway.

Leave one comment for each entry you complete above including with each, your e-mail address (or make sure it's visible in your profile) so that I can easily contact the winner!!

This giveaway will end February 9th and is open to US Only!

**I will be receiving the same prize pack as each of the winners. All products for this review and giveaway were provided for free. All opinions found here are 100% mine and were not influenced in any way. The opinions of others may differ from my own**



Energizer Inductive Charger ~ Review

Posted by Jenna | Monday, January 31, 2011



Cell phones have become a necessity in most homes. The problem is, the more cell phones that are in a household, the more cords and chargers there are taking up space on kitchen counters, tables and more. This is something our family can relate to, which is why I was happy to come across the Energizer Inductive Charger!

Through innovative technologies, thoughtful design and consumer insights...Energizer continues to impress us with their variety of quality products ranging from batteries and chargers to portable power and lights. I have used Energizer products over the years and have always been very pleased. That's why I was excited to learn we were going to have the opportunity to review their Inductive Charger.
Features/Benefits:

  • Delivers easy, convenient, cord-free charging for the iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS/3G and BlackBerry Curve 8900 via sleeve and door accessories
  • Offers large inductive charging areas with additional charging port
  • Compatible with Qi-enabled devices today and in the future
  • Provides freedom of placement within the two large inductive charging areas
  • Does not contain magnets for alignments
  • Sleek, rounded rectangle design with LED charge indicators
We were sent the Energizer Inductive Charger and Energizer iPhone 4 Qi Sleeve to review.

When the Energizer Inductive Charger arrived, I couldn't have been happier. I am not a fan of clutter, which is why my resolution for the New Year is to get more organized. One of the biggest challenges is definitely the kitchen. The counters are forever covered with papers as well as cords for charging cell phones, etc. I have been looking for a solution to our mess, and I had a feeling this would be perfect.

As I pulled the Charger out of the box, I was already impressed with its sleek, rounded rectangle design. We have found that it's most convenient to charge our cell phones and other devices in our kitchen...as this is a centrally located place in our house and somewhere we spend a lot of our time. I don't want something that is going to be an eyesore sitting out for everyone to see, and appreciate the modern look and design of this inductive charger.

Having never used a product like this, I couldn't help but wonder how easy it would be to use. Thankfully, I found out right away that it is super simple! I first plugged in the Energizer Inductive Charger and then slid the cell phone into the Energizer iPhone 4 Qi Sleeve.

I then placed the cell phone onto the charger. I love that there is a LED charge indicator on each side to let me know it's charging. The phone also showed that it was charging.

One thing that makes the Energizer Inductive Charger to use is that does not contain magnets for alignment so charging doesn't require precise placement. Having freedom to place it within the two inductive charging areas is great. Each space is large and by simply setting down the phone, it begins charging. It's that simple!

It is also compatible with Qi-enabled devices today and in the future (Qi is an open source standard for products defined for 5 watts of power or less) which means it will power up devices like smartphones now and those in the future regardless of the manufacturer. It will work with any Qi-enabled device, whether it is built in or has the Qi accessory. I also like the fact that there's an additional USB charging port along the top side. This is great for a third or non Qi-enabled device.

I have been extremely happy with the Energizer Inductive Charger! It's very easy to use and a convenient way to charge smartphones without cords and cables. Charging is now as easy setting your phone down...it doesn't get any more simple than that. I would highly recommend this product. You can learn more by visiting Energizer.

Buy It: The Energizer Inductive Charger retails for $89 and the Energizer Sleeves retail for $34.99 each and are available to buy at several retail locations and online stores.

**The product for this review was provided for free. All opinions found here are my own and were not influenced in any way. The opinions of others may differ from my own**



Winners!

Posted by Jenna | Monday, January 31, 2011



I have several winners to announce!

SanLori Project Runway Sensation Stationary and Candle Giveaway ~ Commenter #316, Raven in a Blue Room

My Wonderful Walls item of choice up to a $100 value ~ Commenter #223, Auqakuh

My Wonderful Walls has generously set up a coupon code for A Mom's Balancing Act readers to receive 25% off your next order. Simply use code - mba960. This offer expires February 4th, so be sure and use it soon!

Cushnee Bath Kneeler ~ Commenter #379, Cakeblast

HippMAMA Belt ~ Commenter #59, joycemlinek

Coupon for FREE Tyson Any'tizers QuesaDippers ~ Commenter #46, GoldenOrchard

ViveVita Bandette Sippy Cup & Bottle Label OR a Gripsterz StayAlong Giveaway ~ Commenter #21, jakiesmom

Wilton Valentine's Day Prize Pack ~ Commenter #662, dab

Thank you to everyone who entered. All winners have been emailed and have 48 hours to get back in touch with me.

Be sure to check out all of my current giveaways along the sidebar too!






Valentine's Day is just around the corner and that means it's time to find fun gifts for loved ones. My husband and I always try to do something special for Kaelyn and Kaden this time of year...and when I think of great children's gifts...Build-A-Bear Workshop is the first thing that comes to mind.
For those who are familiar with Build-A-Bear Workshop, you know that they offer an amazing selection of cuddly friends. It gives children the opportunity (and maybe even adults) to make their very own stuffed animal. Whether it's something for yourself, or someone else...it's a great way to create a very personal and meaningful gift.

I used to think the only way to make a stuffed animal from Build-A-Bear Workshop was to go into a store. Living over an hour away from the nearest one doesn't always make that very easy...which is why I was excited to learn that they offer a super cute collection of featured friends online. During the holidays, like Valentine's Day, they have some adorable seasonal stuffed-animals that can be shipped right to the recipient. This makes it easy to purchase and make adorable gifts with the click of a button!

As I browsed the Build-A-Bear Workshop website recently, I was in awe of their adorable Valentine's Day friends. They have the new Love Bear and Love Bug which are so cute! I was excited to learn we were going to have the opportunity to review the Cute and Cuddly Love Bug for Kaelyn.

When the Cute and Cuddly Love Bug arrived on our doorstep, it was like we had just left the Build-A-Bear Workshop store which made Kaelyn very excited. She was housed in the adorable signature box you find in the Build-A-Bear Workshop store, only it was read which was very suiting for Valentine's Day. There was even a birth certificate included.


Kaelyn was tickled to see her new Love Bug, especially since she has several ladybug dress up outfits of her own. She quickly went and put on her ladybug shirt to be like her new friend. Of course, we were both impressed with the fun accessories that come with Love Bug. She is dressed in an adorable Love Bug Outfit and Red Glitter BearyJane Shoes, and had a bracelet and purse as well.

I was really impressed with the quality of Love Bug. She is extremely soft and super cuddly. At 18 in size it's not too big and not too small...just perfect for little arms to hold. Kaelyn and Kaden both have enjoyed cuddling and playing with Love Bug. They can't help but give her hugs and kisses every chance they get.

I have a feeling Love Bug will be sleeping in Kaelyn's bed along with her other Build-A-Bear Workshop friends. She loves her!

Buy It: You can visit the Build-A-Bear Workshop website and find a store near you, otherwise it's very easy to find a beary special friend right there online.

Win It: One lucky reader is going to win a $25 Gift Card to Build-A-Bear Workshop!

Mandatory Entry - Visit the Build-A-Bear Workshop website and leave a comment letting me know which friend you'd like to have.

Extra Entries:
(Only valid after the mandatory entry has been completed. Leave 1 comment for each extra entry)

1. 1 extra entry- Like Build-A-Bear Workshop on Facebook

2. 1 extra entry- Follow Build-A-Bear Workshop on Twitter

3. 1 extra entry- Sign up for the Build-A-Bear Workshop Email Newsletter (bottom of homepage)

4. 3 extra entries- Blog about this giveaway (linking to this post and Build-A-Bear Workshop) and leave THREE comments with the URL to that post.

5. 1 extra entry- Follow me on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway (You can tweet once a day for one extra entry every day)! You can copy and paste:

#WIN a $25 GC to @buildabear #momsbalancingact http://bit.ly/f0VwzM Ends 2/11

6. 3 extra entries- Post my blog button or blog URL to your blog and leave a comment with the URL to your blog. (If it already is, leave me a comment letting me know)

7.
2 extra entries- subscribe to A Mom's Balancing Act via e-mail (found along the side column) and leave TWO comments letting me know.

8. 2 extra entries- 'Like' A Mom's Balancing Act on Facebook

9. 2 extra entries- Follow my blog publicly on Google Friend Connect

10. Enter any of my other current giveaways. Leave me a comment on which one(s)....ONE entry for EACH giveaway you enter!!

11. 1 extra entry- Share about this giveaway on your Facebook status by including a link back to this giveaway.

Leave one comment for each entry you complete above including with each, your e-mail address (or make sure it's visible in your profile) so that I can easily contact the winner!!

This giveaway will end February 11th and is open to US Only!

**The products for this review & giveaway were provided for free by Build-A-Bear Workshop. All opinions found here are 100% mine and were not influenced in any way. The opinions of others may differ from my own**






I've been trying to cut down on the number of sweets I eat during the day...but cookies are still my weakness. As I mentioned previously...I was selected to be a part of the Nestle Toll House Blogger Outreach Program and couldn't have been more excited. My family and I love Nestle Toll House, especially their Refrigerated Cookie Dough and Refrigerated Cookies. We almost always have them on hand to make when my husband or I have a craving for easy and quick cookies.

With Valentine's Day just around the corner, Nestle Toll House sent us a fun Valentine's Day Cookie Kit which included two free product coupons for Valentine's Sugar Cookies, a Nestle Toll House cookie tin, an activity book for Moms and stickers.

It's fun to make the holidays extra special with yummy cookies, which is why I was thrilled to have the opportunity to try out the new Nestle Toll House Valentine Friends Sugar Cookies as well as the other great products sent along in this kit.

With the new Nestle Toll House Valentine Friends Sugar Cookies you can share 12 different holiday designs delivered on an adorable heart shaped cookie. Kaelyn was tickled to see the different designs on the cookies and couldn't wait to make a batch for her cousin. What I love about these cookies is that they're very quick and easy to make. In just 7 minutes we had 12 cookies baked. Yum!

We've enjoyed eating some of them, and have put the rest in the limited edition Nestle Toll House cookie tin to take down to her cousin's house. It's the perfect way to celebrate the holiday and share these yummy cookies. It would make a great Valentine gift as well and something kids can easily help with.

Win It: One very lucky reader is going to win a Valentine's Day Cookie Kit like the one I received (includes a limited edition Nestle Toll House cookie tin, 2 free product coupons for the Valentine Friends Sugar Cookies, an activity book for Moms, and stickers)!

Mandatory Entry - Visit Nestle Toll House and leave a comment letting me know a recipe you'd love to try.

Extra Entries: (Only valid after the mandatory entry has been completed. Leave 1 comment for each extra entry)

1. 1 extra entry - Like Nestle Toll House on Facebook

2. 3 extra entries- Blog about this giveaway (linking to this post and Nestle Toll House) and leave THREE comments with the URL to that post.

3. 1 extra entry- Follow me on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway (You can tweet once a day for one extra entry every day)! You can copy and paste:

#WIN a Nestle Toll House Valentine's Day Cookie Kit! #momsbalancingact http://bit.ly/hk30bx Ends 2/5

4. 3 extra entries- Post my blog button or blog URL to your blog and leave a comment with the URL to your blog. (If it already is, leave me a comment letting me know)

5.
2 extra entries- subscribe to A Mom's Balancing Act via e-mail (found along the side column) and leave TWO comments letting me know.

6. 2 extra entries- Become a Fan/Like A Mom's Balancing Act on Facebook

7. 2 extra entries- Follow my blog publicly on Google Friend Connect

8. Enter any of my other current giveaways. Leave me a comment on which one(s)....ONE entry for EACH giveaway you enter!!

9. 1 extra entry- Share about this giveaway on your Facebook status by including a link back to this giveaway.

Leave one comment for each entry you complete above including with each, your e-mail address (or make sure it's visible in your profile) so that I can easily contact the winner!!

This giveaway is a very short one as the coupons for free cookies expire 2/21/11! It will end February 5th and is open to the US Only

**The products for this review and giveaway were provided for free by Nestle Toll House. All opinions are my own and were not influenced in any way, The opinions of others may differ from my own**



Sanuk Review & Giveaway (Winner's Choice!)

Posted by Jenna | Friday, January 28, 2011




When it comes to shoes, sandals are my shoe of choice. They're comfortable and easy to slip on and off. The problem is...here in Minnesota, winter prevents us from wearing sandals for a good portion of the year due to the bitter cold weather. Thankfully though, Sanuk has come to the rescue.
Sanuk was founded in 1997 by Jeff Kelley and can now be found in over 50 countries worldwide! Providing creatively inspired yet distinctively designed footwear products for the global outdoor community...something that can be worn all year long, they strive to make innovative products that are as much about funk as they are about function.

You may remember a review of Sanuk Sandals that I had the opportunity to share with you this past summer. I have been very happy with these sandals...in both comfort and quality, which is why I was happy to learn I was going to have the opportunity to review another pair...perfect for this time of year!

I was sent a pair of Sanuk Women's Cheyenne Sidewalk Surfers.
Once again, I was very happy to see that they came in Sanuk's signature biodegradable bag. I love when companies not only take the time to put care into how they package their products (making them great for gift-giving even), but it is especially impressive when they make sure it's eco-friendly.

As I took them out of the bag, I was very impressed with how soft they are. The handmade premium suede upper is great quality and makes these shoes perfect for wearing year round. I also love the art...it's what really makes these unique from any other sidwalk surfer shoe I've seen. Together, the suede and art make these shoes super easy to dress up or down. I've worn them with jeans and a sweater as well as jeans a t-shirt...receiving many compliments on them and people wondering where to get a pair for themselves. The brown/tan color makes them very versatile which is something I look for in shoes and sandals.


After admiring their beauty, I was ready to put them to the test. Upon slipping them on, I could already tell these would be my new favorite pair of shoes. They are incredibly comfortable...much like wearing a pair of flip flops, only with the warmth needed this time of year. They work well with or without socks. I have worn these shoes more times than I can count and have had no issues with discomfort. In fact, we visited the Mall of a America a while back...shopping much of the day and these shoes worked out great! I just love how lightweight and comfortable they are!

As a busy mom, I also look for shoes that are easy to slip on and off. I'm usually running out the door with one child in each arm, so I need something that I doesn't take long to put on. Thankfully, these Cheyenne shoes couldn't be easier to slide on and off. They're perfect!

I have been very pleased with these Sanuk sidewalk surfers! Once again, Sanuk did not disappoint. These are fun shoes that provide the quality, style, comfort and ease Sanuk is known for. I would love to purchase more in the future, as would my hubby! He would love a pair of these Men's Hey Jute sidewalk surfers.

Whether you're looking for shoes for men, women or children..Sanuk has something unique and comfortable for the whole family.

Buy It: The Cheyenne Sidewalk Surfers are no longer available online, but can still be found in stores. You can head over to Sanuk to check out their large selection.

Win It: Thanks to Sanuk, one very lucky reader is going to win an item of their choice $60 or under!

Mandatory Entry - Visit Sanuk and let me know what you'd choose if you won.

Extra Entries: (Only valid after the mandatory entry has been completed. Leave 1 comment for each extra entry)

1. 1 extra entry - Like Sanuk on Facebook

2. 1 extra entry - Follow Sanuk on Twitter

3. 3 extra entries- Blog about this giveaway (linking to this post and Sanuk) and leave THREE comments with the URL to that post.

4. 1 extra entry- Follow me on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway (You can tweet once a day for one extra entry every day)! You can copy and paste:

#WIN an item of your choice from @SanukFootwear ($60 or under)! #momsbalancingact http://bit.ly/dLeOTp Ends 2/18

5. 3 extra entries- Post my blog button or blog URL to your blog and leave a comment with the URL to your blog. (If it already is, leave me a comment letting me know)

6.
2 extra entries- subscribe to A Mom's Balancing Act via e-mail (found along the side column) and leave TWO comments letting me know.

7. 2 extra entries- Become a Fan/Like A Mom's Balancing Act on Facebook

8. 2 extra entries- Follow my blog publicly on Google Friend Connect

9. Enter any of my other current giveaways. Leave me a comment on which one(s)....ONE entry for EACH giveaway you enter!!

10. 1 extra entry- Share about this giveaway on your Facebook status by including a link back to this giveaway.

Leave one comment for each entry you complete above including with each, your e-mail address (or make sure it's visible in your profile) so that I can easily contact the winner!!

This giveaway will end February 18th and is open to the US Only

**The products for this review and giveaway were provided for free by Sanuk. All opinions are my own and were not influenced in any way, The opinions of others may differ from my own**







In my efforts to be more organized (a goal of mine with the new year), I have started looking for ways to keep the clutter to a minimum in our household. That's why I greatly appreciate children's products and gear that are made to grow with a child and save space. I came to the realization that we needed to do something different in our bathroom when I looked and saw a potty chair on the floor, a potty seat on the toilet and a step stool by the sink. Yes, these are all products we need and use on a daily basis with Kaelyn...but they do take up space and I'd love to have something all-in-one. I was hoping to find a practical solution, and thanks to Summer Infant, I have.
With the mission of making this 'the best time of your life' and putting their heart and soul into everything they design, Summer Infant is dedicated to bringing parents a large selection of products that are both safe and sensible for little ones. Between their high quality baby products and excellent customer service, they have become a name parents know and trust. Whether you're looking for baby monitors, bedding, bath accessories, or something else...they have it all!

We own several Summer Infant products and are continually impressed with the quality and user-friendly design of each. That's why I was excited to learn we were going to have the opportunity to review the Summer Infant Step by Step Potty Trainer & Step Stool in pink (there is also a neutral/blue available).

Features/Benefits:

  • Recommended for ages 18 months - 5 years
  • Potty Training Guide included
  • Flushable wipes dispenser
  • Soft Seat and toilet topper
  • Removable cup
  • Step stool
  • Toilet tissue dispenser
When the potty chair arrived, I was looking forward to checking it out and couldn't wait to see what Kaelyn thought of it. The moment I pulled it out of the box, Kaelyn's face lit up. She loves pink, and that combined with the fun floral printed seat and look of a real toilet was enough to get her to want to use it right there and then. In fact, it looks so much like a real adult potty that one of the first things Kaelyn asked was 'Does it flush?'. :)

The seat is not only cute and attractive to little ones, but it's also very soft. Kaelyn loves to use it, and I love that it removes easily for cleaning.

The removable cup is also very easy to clean. Once the soft seat is lifted, I simply grab the cup to dump it and clean it. It's a really nice size, and even small enough so Kaelyn can help dump it out.
It works great as a potty chair for little ones, but as Kaelyn gets older she prefers the big potty (with her long legs it's more comfortable for her too). That's why I was happy to see that this Step by Step Potty Trainer can quickly be transformed into a potty seat with step stool.

To use it in this way, simply snap off the toilet topper and place on toilet seat. It fits perfectly on the toilet, and best of all...the base of the potty can be used as a step stool and makes getting up on the potty a piece of cake for Kaelyn. I love that it has a lid which encourages her to put it down when she's done. The handles are another great feature I really appreciate. Whether you have a little one who is just starting out and using the potty independently or using it as a potty seat on the big toilet...the handles are a great way to give the child confidence and make them feel comfortable.


Of course, one of the neatest things about this potty is the toilet paper dispenser right on the side. When Kaelyn is on a potty chair or sitting on the big potty...it's always been difficult for her to reach the toilet paper located on the wall. Thankfully, this toilet paper dispenser is right on the potty seat. No matter if it's being used as a potty chair or a potty seat...it's perfect! She loves being able to grab the toilet paper on her own, and I really appreciate that it's helping to encourage good hygiene.

There is also a flushable wipes dispenser along the backside. This is very handy for parents, however not something that is easily accessible for the child. I really think it's a great addition to the potty, but I do wish that the compartment were a bit larger. The travel wipe packages we buy are too large to slide in, so I've been taking them out of the package and put them in that way. It seems to work pretty well, and with the lid closed, they seem to stay moist.

As I mentioned, when used as a potty seat on the big toilet...the base of the potty can be used as a step stool. This is not only great for allowing Kaelyn to get up on the potty all by herself, but she also likes to push it over to the sink when she's done so she can wash her hands by herself too. It's very sturdy, and with non slip rubber feet on the bottom seems very safe for her to use.

Overall I've been very happy with the Step by Step Potty Trainer & Step Stool from Summer Infant. It's a great little potty that grows with children from the very beginning stages of potty training to the more independent stage of using the potty on their own. It's a terrific way to encourage little ones to use the potty and builds their confidence in doing so. Kaelyn has been really happy with it...and so have I!

For those who have a boy, or would like something more neutral...the Step by Step Potty Trainer & Step Stool also comes in blue. This one comes with a deflector shield for boys.

Win It: One lucky reader is going to win a Step by Step Potty Trainer & Step Stool in the color of their choice (Pink or Blue).

Mandatory Entry - Visit Summer Infant and let me know another one of their products you'd like to have.

Extra Entries: (Only valid after the mandatory entry has been completed. Leave 1 comment for each extra entry)

1. 1 extra entry - Leave a comment letting me know which Step by Step Potty Trainer & Step Stool you would choose if you won (Pink or Neutral/Blue).

2. 1 extra entry - Like Summer Infant on Facebook

3. 1 extra entry - Follow Summer Infant on Twitter

4. 1 extra entry - Sign up to receive the Summer Infant Newsletter

5. 3 extra entries- Blog about this giveaway (linking to this post and Summer Infant) and leave THREE comments with the URL to that post.

6. 1 extra entry- Follow me on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway (You can tweet once a day for one extra entry every day)! You can copy and paste:

#WIN a Step by Step Potty Trainer & Step Stool from Summer Infant in the color of your choice! #momsbalancingact http://bit.ly/hU0tT4

7. 2 extra entries- subscribe to A Mom's Balancing Act via e-mail (found along the side column) and leave TWO comments letting me know.

8. 3 extra entries- Post my blog button or blog URL to your blog and leave a comment with the URL to your blog. (If it already is, leave me a comment letting me know)


9. 2 extra entries- Become a Fan/Like A Mom's Balancing Act on Facebook

10. 2 extra entries- Follow my blog publicly on Google Friend Connect

11. Enter any of my other current giveaways. Leave me a comment on which one(s)....ONE entry for EACH giveaway you enter!!

12. 1 extra entry- Share about this giveaway on your Facebook status by including a link back to this giveaway.

Leave one comment for each entry you complete above including with each, your e-mail address (or make sure it's visible in your profile) so that I can easily contact the winner!!

It will end February 18th and is open to the US and Canada!


**The products for this review and giveaway were provided for free by Summer Infant. All opinions are my own and were not influenced in any way. The opinions of others may differ from my own**




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