Jenga Giant Kids Wood Blocks Toy Review

Toys 


MBE partnered with Jenga GIANT for this review, post contains affiliate links 

Educational Kids Fun Builds STEM Skills 


If you were a child starting in the 1980s, chances are you probably remember the classic Jenga wood building blocks game. This brand's nostalgic no tech and educational toy is still going strong, getting bigger and better for the next generation with the introduction of the Jenga GIANT JS4 wood blocks building set, the newest edition to the Jenga GIANT line.



Boy Building With Wood Blocks



Giant Wood Blocks Building Game for Bigger Fun 


A new twist on the original stacking game. Jenga GIANT JS4 challenges kids to enhance their fine motor skills, learn about cause and effect, and sharpen strategic thinking abilities to build a tower up to 3 feet high using the included 54 over-sized wood blocks measuring 4.75" x 1" x 1.58" (four times the volume of classic Jenga blocks). 

What's more is that with larger build-ups boys and girls as they play the game, kids get to experience even more excitement along with louder and bigger crashes when blocks tumble. What's not to love as a parent about keeping kids busy for hours with an engaging wholesome activity that doesn't involve any electronics or wifi and that won't mess up your house? 

Millennial Mom Shares Her Family Experience 


Just ask Rachel Marks, millennial mother of a preschooler and toddler, what she thinks about Jenga GIANT JS4. 

"I enjoyed playing with the original Jenga so much during my own childhood," Rachel says. "It was often the go-to activity for multi-generational family gatherings, so I was very interested in trying out this new giant Jenga version with my two boys. 

"When I first received GIANT JS4 for my latest MBE review, I was curious to see how my 4-year-old son would respond to this toy. Growing up with Jenga was a special experience for me and I find it to be even better now because I'm sharing this new rendition with my own family.



Jenga GIANT Kids Wood Blocks



"Each classically-designed wood piece is big enough for my son to easily grab and start building. What a thrill it is to watch him at work stacking these lightweight, but sturdy blocks, and creating yet another massive tower. The look of sheer anticipation, excitement and wonder in his eyes that he can build a structure that's taller than he is speaks volumes. 

"Not only is my big boy enjoying himself with this, as a parent it is satisfying to know he is also learning and growing through this amazing STEM activity combining a fun no-mess activity with building greater physical dexterity. Even my 18 month-old little guy has gotten into the act, mesmerized by watching the action as his big brother is focused on building a tower that doesn't tip over too early in the game.

"The icing on the cake is that Jenga GIANT blocks are teaching my children important life skills like cooperation, working together, and patience. In a short time, Jenga GIANT blocks have proven to be a reliable entertainment resource for play dates, at-home game nights, and even one-on-one child bonding time with mom or dad.

"Another mom-worthy note: The heavy-duty traveling case is so handy not only for storage at home when not in use. This is perfect for on-to-go families like ours to bring on trips to the park or when visiting family and friends," Rachel concludes.

The Origins of Jenga 


Jenga was inducted into the National Toy of Fame in 2020. The original product idea was conceived in the early 1970s by Leslie Scott, a British national, who was inspired by a game played with wood building blocks by her family while living in West Africa. The toys name Jenga comes from the Swahili word kujenga which literally means to build. 

Fast forward to 1983 when Scott officially introduced Jenga at the London Toy Fair. From there the simple game based on wood blocks took off and by1985 the flagship product was first available in the US and Canada and shortly thereafter could be purchased in many countries worldwide.Jenga was inducted into the National Toy of Fame in 2020. 


Family Fun 
for All Ages


Boy Girl Building With Wood Blocks



About the New Jenga GIANT JS4 Blocks Set 


Jenga GIANT JS4 wood blocks are an ideal gift idea for Ages 6 years old and up. Available on Amazon and at JengaGiant.com. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor fun for the whole family: kids, teens and adults will all enjoy playing with this together. An entertaining and educational activity for family game nights, special occasions and children's birthday parties. 

A perfect addition to traditional and homeschool classrooms, too, since Jenga GIANT JS4 blocks are constructed of premium hard wood and are built to last. 



Jenga GIANT JS4 
Kids Wood Blocks



DISCLOSURE: We participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program that allows our site to earn a bit of compensation (at no extra cost to you) for including where to buy referral links within our posts to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

NYTSTND Duo Tray Wireless Charger Review

Tech


Technology Made for Minimalists


Don't you just hate always depending upon having a mess of assorted charging cables on hand -- not to mention those electric plugs that always seem to go missing when you need them -- to ensure your smartphone, smart watch, and/or wireless earbuds are charged to keep up with your tech-based lifestyle? For sure, I know that feeling. That menagerie of cables and plugs was cluttering my gadget loving life until I was rescued from all that wired chaos with the NYTSTND Duo Tray Wireless Charging Pad Station which I received to facilitate this honest review recapping my experience.

MBE partnered with NYTSTND for this review



Minimalist Elegant Wireless Charger
NYTSTND Duo Tray Wireless Charger Station



Meet NYTSTND Duo Tray Wireless Charger Pad


The NYTSTND Duo Tray Wireless Charger can charge up to two Qi-compatible devices (any combination of smartphones, smartwatches, wireless earbuds, etc) simultaneously. Made in the US and constructed with Amish-sourced wood and beautifully stitched quality leather, it's a statement decor accessory piece that charges your devices.

Not only pretty to look at, this product perfect for busy families and minimalistic lifestyles is compatible with newer Apple, Samsung and Google Pixel, Nokia and other Qi-compatible devices. That's a real benefit, especially if you want to charge two different brand devices at once such as an iPhone and a Samsung phone or two types of devices like an iPhone and Airpods. The Duo also includes a built-in tray to store all those small items that are easily misplaced. Important things like your eye glasses, wallet. earrings, and more. This tray is also where your own personality is reflected, as you see from the photo at the top of this post I love having orchids in the tray of my NYTSTND charging station.

Extra Perks, Easy Setup and Use


Another perk of this stylish NYTSTND product: you can charge a compatible phone without removing the case if it is up to 5mm thick. There's even an extra USB port on the back of the unit for charging an additional device that might not be Qi-enabled. Best of all, at just 8"H x 5.8"L x 6.9"W and weighing less than a pound, this mini mobile powerhouse is compact, sleek and stylish and is perfectly sized to fit on workspaces, desks and most bedside night tables. 


NYTSTND Duo White Wireless Charging Station
NYTSTND DUO TRAY IN ACTION


Straight out of the box the Duo is easy to set up and ready to use. All you have to do is connect it to the included AC Power Adapter and plug into a nearby electric wall outlet. Then simply place one (or two) compatible wireless devices directly on the charging pad. You'll know each device you want to recharge is placed in the right spot when you see a solid blue light turn on signaling that charging has begun. If you see a flashing blue light just keep moving the device until the solid light appears to position it properly. Your device(s) will charge quickly and you'll know the charging is complete when you see a green light. 

The Magsafe-compatible NYTSTND Duo is available in Rustic White Leather with White Wood Base, like the white-on-white tray wireless charger I chose for this review post. The Duo tray style is also offered in nine two tone color combinations (Black/Slate Gray for example) to suit just about everyone's personality, lifestyle, and decor.



NYTSTND QUAD TRAY 4-in-1


About NYTSTND


Headquartered in Ohio, NYTSTND specializes in high-quality luxurious wireless charging stations offered in various combinations, handcrafted from premium wood and ultra-soft luxe leather. In addition to the DUO TRAY 2-in-1 charging station featured in this review (which is also available without the tray, other NYTSTND products available include the UNO (for single device wireless charging),  the TRIO and TRIO TRAY (3-in-1 wireless charging station), and the QUAD and QUAD TRAY  (4-in-1 wireless charging station). Prices range from $64 to $234.


NYSTND Life Uncluttered



WHERE TO BUY


Add some luxury and unclutter your life at home or at the office. Check out the full line of elegant and functional NYTSTND wireless chargeing stations available exclusively on the brand's site


NYTSTND.com


This post contains affiliate links what allow our site to earn a bit of compensation (at no extra cost to consumers)  for including referral links.

More Free Halloween Pumpkin Carving Stencils

Crafts

100+ Free Printable Pumpkin Stencils & Templates


Free fun and whimsical DIY pumpkin carving patterns are as plentiful as the pumpkins you see in the fields, at neighborhood pumpkin patches and at markets right now.  For those of you celebrating, Halloween will be here before you know it. So it's time to start (or finish) decorating your home, if you haven't done it already. It's also a good idea to start planning this year's jack-o'-lantern masterpiece now, if you're carving one. To get the best choice, select your pumpkin now. But, wait to actually carve the design until just a day or so before Halloween to keep your pumpkin as fresh as possible.





Isn't this adorbs? I love this super simple pumpkin carving idea for baby's first Halloween which makes a great photo prop for some Instagram worthy images this fall. All you do is cut the pumpkin top open and hollow out then cut two smaller holes in front slightly larger in diameter than your child's legs. 

Seriously, no matter what you like, what your skill level is and what you are looking for you are bound to find one or more free downloadable pumpkin stencils here that you or the kids will want to use to carve your pumpkin this Halloween.






34 Free & Easy Pumpkin Carving Templates from HGTV

More than 90 Advanced Pumpkin Carving Templates from HGTV

15 Halloween Decorating & Craft Templates from Martha Stewart

Superman Pumpkin Carving Template from Celebrating Halloween

The Good Dinosaur Arlo Pumpkin Carving Template based on the Disney Pixar movie

43 Cool Pumpkin Carving Stencils from Popsugar

Assorted Pumpkin Stencils in Different Themes from The Pumpkin Lady

Many fun Pumpkin Carving for Families Templates from Pumpkin Pile

Huge Selection Whimsical Pumpkin Carving Templates from Better Homes & Gardens

53 more Pumpkin Carving Templates from Better Homes & Gardens

49 Pumpkin Printable Stencils from Good Housekeeping

50 Pumpkin Carving Stencils from Woman's Day

50 Printable Pumpkin Carving Templates from Parade

26 Pumpkin Carving Stencils from Real Simple

30 Free Skull Pumpkin Carving Stencils from Artsy Pretty Plants


Remember Safety First is your responsibility: Supervision by a responsible person is always advised for any activities or crafts involving kids 

Bookmark this page NOW 
& keep checking back 
as we add more template resources to the list

Happy Halloween!

Pumpkins Farmers Market


Other Halloween posts you'll like

DIY Hand Dipped Chocolate with Store-Bought Candy Bars 
10 Free Fun Halloween Mobile Apps for Windows
Tofu Halloween Ghost Pumpkin Mummy Pop Cakes
Free Halloween Party Printables

Vegan Grilled Tofu Chimichurri BBQ Recipe

Good Food


MBE partnered with The Soyfoods Council; Post contains affiliate links

Summer Grilling for Vegans, Meat-Eaters


Who doesn't enjoy delicious food grilled outside over charcoal or fragrant, smokey wood during the summer months, right?  That's why I love sharing really tasty, healthy and innovative recipes like this one from The Soyfoods Council. This dinner idea is meatless, actually two recipes in one yummy meal: Grilled Tofu and Grilled Garlic Bread, something that will appeal to both vegan and carnivore foodies.


BBQ Tofu Grilled Garlic Bread Recipe

 

RECIPE


Grilled Tofu with Chimichurri Sauce 
and Grilled Garlic Bread


Chimichurri sauce is a zesty Latin American condiment similar to pesto

Chimichurri Sauce:

  • 2 cups lightly packed chopped parsely
  • 3-5 garlic cloves, peeled
  • 1 t. salt
  • 1/2 t. fresh ground pepper
  • 1/2 t. chili pepper flakes
  • 2 T. shallot or onion, minced
  • 3/4 cup vegetable or olive oil
  • 3 T. sherry wine vinegar or red wine vinegar
  • 3 T. lemon juice

Cumin Rub:

  • 1 t. granulated garlic
  • 1/2 t. smoked paprika or Hungarian paprika
  • 1/2 t. ground cumin
  • 1 box (12 ozs) extra-firm tofu made from 100% US soybeans
  • Olive oil
  • Kosher salt

To prepare the Chimichurri sauce, place all ingredients in a blender or food processor and pulse until well chopped, but not puréed. Set aside.

To prepare the rub, combine the garlic, paprika and cumin; mix well. Set aside. Cut the tofu in half lengthwise to make two "steaks" about 3/4-inch thick. Brush lightly with olive oil. Press the rub into both sides of the tofu steaks. Just before grilling, season the tofu steaks with kosher salt. Place tofu directly on the cooking grate over direct heat and sear. Cook for 4-6 minutes. Turn the tofu steams with a pair of tongs, using a flat spatula if needed. Sear the second side and continue grilling until done, about 3-5 minutes. Cut grilled tofu into thin slices and serve with Chimichurri Sauce and Grilled Garlic Bread.

Grilled Garlic Bread:

  • 8 pieces crusty, dense Italian bread, cut into 3/4 to 1-inch thick slices
  • 4 large cloves garlic, peeled, cut in half
  • Extra virgin olive oil, preferably from Tuscany

For grilled garlic bread, place bread slices on grates, turning once until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Rub one side of each piece of bread with a half clove of garlic; rub hard for good garlicky flavor. Place each piece of bread on a serving plate and brush with thin coating of olive oil. Season with salt, serve with the Chimichurri Tofu and enjoy.


Tofu Good Source Protein


About The Soyfoods Council


The Soyfoods Council is an affiliate of the Iowa Soybean Association. To learn more about US-grown soybeans and for more delicious, nutritious recipe ideas like the one in this post, visit The Soy Foods Council website, as well as follow the Council on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.


DISCLOSURE: We participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program that allows our site to earn a bit of compensation (at no extra cost to consumers) for including referral links within our posts to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

CoComelon YouTube Show Celebrates Childhood

Preschoolers


Preschool Learning Series with Giveaway


There are so many reasons why CoComelon, created by Moonbug Entertainment, has more than 140 million subscribers to their YouTube channel and continues to grow in popularity in the kids entertainment category. With a continuous stream of new animated episodes being released, this is free educational and wholesome entertainment content for preschoolers and young children at its best. There is also a Netflix version of the show for subscribers that little ones to watch. 


CoComelon Character Moonbug Entertainment
Image by CoComelon, Moonbug Entertainment

MBE partnered with CoComelon; Post contains affiliate links


Each and every new CoComelon release offers little ones, mom, dad and their families everyday experiences, situations and lessons that are universally-relatable and presented in a fun and heartwarming way. The series focuses on a cast of sweet, relatable CoComelon characters including toddler JJ, his family, and friends as they explore and learn new things through practical life examples. 

Through charming 3D animation, loveable characters, nursery rhymes, and song and dance tunes, youngsters have the opportunity to learn the basics like letters, nambers, animal sounds, colors, and more. In addition, the series -- which sensitively addresses modern social issues -- is ideal for parents and kids to watch together and talk about what they've learnt. Worth noting: earlier this summer CoComelon hosted an influencer event for moms and their kids at Underwood Farms in California to celebrate JJ's birthday.

#HAPPYBDAYJJ


CoComelon HappyBdayJJ



About CoComelon


CoComelon is a place that helps kids be happy and smart. In addition to subscribing free to the CoComelon Show on YouTube, you can learn more as well as download lots of fun show-themed activities on the entertainment brand's website CoComelon.com. For even more fun, you're invited to follow CoComelon on Facebook, Instagram, and Tik Tok.

With such a wholesome fun show to share with you, through the generosity of CoComelon, MBE is excited to offer a special giveaway in honor of JJ's Birthday. Read on to find out how to enter MBE's exclusive CoComelon-themed Giveaway Contest for your chance to win this for the young child in your life.

GIVEAWAY

CoComelon
Giant Gift Box
ARV $150+

Exclusive MBE Giveaway


CoComelon Kids Toy Giveaway




How to Enter This Giveaway

Thanks to CoComelon, ONE (1) lucky MBE giveaway participant will be receiving a fun box full of CoComelon goodies valued at $150+. Items in prize package may vary. To enter this family-friendly giveaway we are offering exclusively for our audience, visit this MBE post on Instagram. Contest is open to US residents only and qualifying winner will be selected at random.

This giveaway runs now through August 15, 2022 at 11:59 pm EST. This contest is not affiliated with Instagram in any way. CoComelon is providing the prize package and is responsible for delivery to winner.


CoComelon Gifts Kids Will Love 


CoComelon Boom Box with Microphone
CoComelon Toddler 4-piece Dinnerware Set
CoComelon 1- piece Cozy Pajamas, 12 Mos to 4T
CoComelon Kids Comfy Arm Chair, 18 mos+
CoComelon Smart Phone and Camera Toy


DISCLOSURE: We participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program that allows our site to earn a bit of compensation (at no extra cost to consumers) for including referral links within our posts to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.