Kandoo helps toddlers gain independence

Hannah turns two this month. She talks non-stop and gets frustrated when she can't do things herself. But when she is able to accomplish something the look of pride on her face is priceless.

That's why I'm such a fan on the Kandoo line of personal care products designed specifically for toddlers.

I love the scents. Hannah loves the foaming action. We both love that she can easily use the pumps all by herself.

Affordable Family Fun at the Bowmanville Zoo

One of Hannah's favourite noises to make for the past few months is trumpeting like an elephant. You ask, "What sound does an elephant make?" and she responds with such a convincing noise that you would think she is being raised by a herd.

So this past weekend when Hannah first saw 50 year old Asian elephant Limba bathing in the stream at her home, the Bowmanville Zoo, it's not a surprise she trumpeted like an elephant.

Why Toddlers and Pet Food Shouldn't Mix

Hannah's latest obsession is our cat Booyah. When he's not visible, she forces him into an involuntary game of hide and seek. She crawls up to him to give him pats, she tries to follow him into his litter box and of course, she has become interested in his food too.

We live in 745 square feet of fun. This means (now that she's mobile) Hannah pretty much has access to everything Booyah does.

I believe that supervision is the number one way for kids of all ages to stay safe. When Hannah reached her tiny hand into Booyah's food dish I was right there to quickly move her away, resulting in the worst temper tantrum she's had yet. And then I wondered, how bad would it be if she did consume some of his food?

Lil' Bean N' Green - Cafe n' Play

Last week Hannah and I visited a friend in Leslieville who suggested we check out the Lil'Bean n' Green (located at 1133 Queen St. East (between Pape St. & Jones Ave.)).

I had the Lil' Bean Salad with boiled egg which was delicious and made with Leslieville cheese. The menu is a bit more pricey compared to Playful Grounds on College Street, but the Lil' Bean's play area is huge, and definitely geared towards toddlers, so when Hannah is a little older I will be taking her back.

This cafe is also geared to parents - there are extra diapers and wipes in the washrooms and ample stroller parking in the front area. They also have all types of activities, but at a charge.

To find out more, please visit http://www.lilbeanandgreen.com/.