Should these toys be on your gift lists?

My kids have learned that a package from Team Mom usually means something fun for them to try out. Take for example Spin Master’s Aquadoodle Draw N’ Doodle Mat and Kid Kleen Bath Blizzard.

The Aquadoodle Draw N’ Doodle Mat was an instant hit. It is a large fabric mat that you draw on with water. The drawings “magically” appear and then disappear so that the mat can be used over and over again. There are several things that I love about this product.

• The Aquadoodle Draw N’ Mat promotes creativity.
• Unlike paper drawings which have to be stored or eventually thrown out, the Aquadoodle Draw N’ Mat is reusable.
• More than one child can draw at a time (perfect for sharing with siblings).
• It is mess-free.
• The mat rolls up for easy storage.

The only negative thing I can think of to say about the Aquadoodle Draw N’ Mat is that it comes with just one Aqua Pen. Aqua Pens can be purchased separately but you can use a paint brush or even your finger dipped in water if you don’t have extra pens.

Bottom Line: Kids loved it.  Mom loved it.

The Kid Kleen Bath Blizzard is a bubble machine that hangs on the side of the tub and makes continuous soapy bath bubbles. My kids loved it. They couldn’t wait to take a bath with the Bath Blizzard and they didn’t want for their baths to end.

My relationship with the Bath Blizzard got off to a rocky start. I started off having trouble assembling the strap. It wasn’t a major issue but it did set the tone for the remainder of my experience. Next I discovered that I would need batteries. As a general rule I do not like toys that require batteries. The Bath Blizzard requires 4 “C” batteries which are not included and which I did not have in the house.

The Bath Blizzard uses a bubble solution (safe, non-toxic, wheat & tears-free and hypo-allergenic) that is included in the package. Once assembled the Bath Blizzard is simple to use. Fill the chamber with warm water and one cap-full of bubble solution. Shake the machine a few times and turn the knob. Be rewarded with a “waterfall” of soapy bubbles.

Bottom Line: Kids loved it.  Mom loved the concept but is not 100 % sold on the product.