Showing posts with label for kids. Show all posts
Showing posts with label for kids. Show all posts

Saturday, July 10, 2021

How Does a 3-D Mirascope Work?

Okay, geek mode on!  I found this fascinating science toy recently and set it up on the dining table before my youngest son got home. When I showed him how the frog wasn't actually on top of the mirascope, he had the same surprised reaction I had the first time I tried it. The image looked so real but when you try and touch it, you can't!  Watch the video, here.

So, how does this instant illusion maker work? According to the box, the 3-D Mirascope consists of two parabolic mirrors that are facing each other. The top mirror has a hole in the center where the hologram effect takes place. By setting an object in the bottom parabolic mirror, it is suddenly projected as a solid object in the opening of the top mirror.

Super cool, right? If you also want to buy one, you can find it here:    https://amzn.to/3e3hTe6. Enjoy! 

Please leave a comment below to share how your family and friends reacted. It would be a nice party trick don't you think? Also, aside from the frog, what other small stuff were you able to project as a hologram? I'm still looking around our house for another tiny item to try!   


Monday, May 22, 2017

Cetaphil Marks 70th Year of Ensuring Healthy Skin

Having healthy skin is a very important part of a healthy lifestyle. It takes away the worries, stress, and expenses of treating a lot of skin conditions that are easily prevented with proper care. This 2017, Galderma proudly celebrates Cetaphil's 70th year of helping people have healthy skin through its dermatologically formulated skincare range that is clinically proven to strengthen and protect even the most sensitive skin. 

celebratory toast
(from left) event host Suzi Abrera, Jade Ponoc, Raghavendra Sadashiva, and Cathy Dilanco
"We are very glad to be one of the biggest names in skin care in the Philippines," said Galderma General Manager Raghavendra Sadashiva during the 70th year celebrations held at Makati Shangri-La. "We are proud to carry the same formula created by a pioneering Texas pharmacist in 1947. Right now, one bottle of Cetaphil is sold every minute across the globe!"

Presently, Cetaphil is available in more than 70 countries worldwide and offers a wide range of everyday products from cleansers, moisturizers, sun protection to baby products and solutions for sensitive skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and rosacea. Since it is specifically formulated to provide effective skincare for a variety of skin types and conditions, Cetaphil is highly recommended by dermatologists and other healthcare professionals across the world. 

Cetaphil's Classic line
"Maintaining healthy skin completes the healthy lifestyle goals," affirmed Jade Silva-Netto Ponoc, Consumer Business Unit Head, who promised that Galderma is committed to conducting more innovative and groundbreaking research.

Catherine Palma-Dilanco, Cetaphil Senior Brand Manager, described, "Cetaphil has consistently delivered its promise for 70 years. Its cleansers have pH5.5, making them gentler than water, which has pH6-6.5. Cetaphil also has the most powerful moisturizer that provides skin with 24 hours moisturization." Cetaphil Baby, in addition, also provides a tear-free bath time for babies and their mommies.

Cetaphil Baby line
Cetaphil endorsers, the beautiful family of Edric and Joy Mendoza, acknowledged how they love Cetaphil's products because there are variants for each of their skin needs. "We represent the average family because we're not celebrities, so we're relatable," reasoned Joy. 

If you're wondering about the brand name's origin, 'Cet' comes from cetyl, the fatty alcohol that is used as an emollient, while 'phil' means love. Thus, Cetaphil basically means the love of softening and soothing skin. 

Mendoza family
"With its gentle and clinically proven formulas, Cetaphil reinforces and protects the structure of the skin - even in people with the most sensitive and delicate skin," explained Dr. Eszter Baltas, a dermatologist who contributed to developing Cetaphil products and now Associate Professor at the Department of Dermatoloy and Allergology in Szeged, Hungary. "Thanks to its long heritage, based on in-depth understanding of dermatology, Cetaphil offers reliable, scientifically-tested solutions."

Neil Popplewell, Nestle Skin Health's VP for Consumer Business, pointed out that Cetaphil has been used by people with sensitive skin for more than three generations. "Over the last 70 years, we have worked closely with medical experts to better understand people's skin needs. This has allowed us to provide different solutions adapted to these needs, and to make the Cetaphil range what it is today."

Cetaphil Moisturizers line
He further illustrated that like regular exercise and a well-balanced diet, maintaining healthy skin is essential for one's overall wellbeing thus Cetaphil completes one's health routine. "We will continue to develop the brand and make it more accessible to consumers worldwide. We look forward to the next 70 years."

As Dr. Baltas concluded, "When you choose Cetaphil, you're choosing the best for your skin."   


Thursday, March 16, 2017

Write, Breathe, Live Celebrates Belo Baby’s 1st Birthday with a Giveaway!

Hey, Moms and Dads! Did you know that baby’s skin is 20-30% thinner compared to adult skin? This means baby’s skin allows more substances through and it is not yet an efficient barrier to infections.

Knowing these, of course you’d want to use products on your baby that are:
• Free from synthetic chemicals
• Less likely to cause irritation because they are free from common allergens
• Generally gentler and safer than products with artificial ingredients

Right? 

my Baby James at 4 months old
Let me share with you some products that I trust would take care of my son’s skin. James is a special child who is non-verbal and can’t tell me directly when he feels any discomfort. So, I make it a point to ensure that whatever we feed him or apply on his body would not cause him any irritation. 

Last year, I discovered Belo Baby and gave its products a try because it guarantees moms that the products only use 100% certified natural ingredients and 0% harmful chemicals. 

Belo Baby bath and body line prices:
Face and Body Lotion (P224.75), Bar Soap (P79.75), and Hair and Body Wash (P219.75)
In a nutshell, the natural ingredients of Belo Baby Hair and Body Wash, Belo Baby Bar Soap, and Belo Baby Face and Body Lotion include a known superfood for the skin; naturally heal common skin conditions of babies like eczema and rash; have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties; strengthen and moisturize skin; have a natural emollient for softening skin; and lock in moisture into the skin.

Please read in detail the benefits of Cocoa Butter, Shea Butter, and Sweet Almond Oil in my previous Belo Baby blog post, here: http://mommywrites.blogspot.com/2016/05/belo-baby-product-line-meticulously.html 

my son loves it when we use Belo Baby lotion after a bath
It is also important to note that Belo Baby products DO NOT contain chemicals like sulfates that strip the skin of its natural oils, as well as synthetic preservatives such as parabens, Tetrasodium EDTA, or phthalates that break down the skin’s protective barriers.

Thus, I am assured that every time I use Belo Baby on my son, I know that I am using products that have been “crafted with care for the most delicate skin, for the most meticulous moms.” Although my son couldn’t speak, he can definitely express joy with his eyes and his beautiful smile. I love how his lips would turn up when he sees things that make him happy, Belo Baby products included ☺.

the original Belo Baby - Scarlet Snow Belo
For a year now, Belo Baby has been delighting moms and babies alike for making bath time a great bonding activity and we would like you and your baby to experience that, too! So, to celebrate Belo Baby’s 1st Birthday, we are giving away three (3) Belo Baby gift packs! Please join using the Rafflecopter widget below.

Giveaway is open to Philippine residents and ends at 11:59PM of March 23, 2017. Winners will be determined via digital raffle, announced on March 24, and will be sent emails to get their mailing addresses. Start earning entries, today! ☺ 

a Rafflecopter giveaway
For more information and to get updated about other promos, log on to belobaby.ph and like/follow @belobabylove on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Edit - March 25: Congratulations to Angelie Namindang, Jennifer L. Javellana, and Regina Bula Libao! You each won a Belo Baby gift pack! Please check your emails and send me your mailing addresses. Thank you to everyone who joined. Stay tuned for other giveaways in the coming days :)


Saturday, February 11, 2017

Bond with Your Kids by Making Star Margarine Fairy Bread!

Kids are very active so it's not unusual to see them doing a lot of things to while away the time. Make sure the activities they engage in are fun and beneficial to their development. Keep them busy with entertaining tasks such as decorating bread with Star Margarine and some colorful additions!

ready to get creative
Look for the Star Fairy Bread packs in the supermarket and choose from four kinds of toppings: sprinkles, hearts, xmas trees, and stars. You may want to collect all four designs so you and your child could decorate different kinds of breads.

look for the Star Fairy Bread packs that include colorful sprinkles

It's very easy to make Star Fairy Bread:

1. Spread Star Margarine Classic on bread. You may opt to use cookie cutters to make interesting shapes.
2. Decorate the bread with the toppings and come up with creative designs.
3. Serve and enjoy!

busy concentrating
Whether you'll eat them for breakfast or for snacks, Star Fairy Bread will make for a nutritious and delicious treat because Star Margarine has 10 Growth Building Nutrients that help in children's complete development. 

make snacks nutritious by putting Star Margarine on bread
My nieces and nephew were delighted to do this activity during our family get-together and all three had fun coming up with creative designs and eating their creations after. I'm glad to see them enjoying another bonding activity together.

fun activity for the win!
Look for the Star Fairy Bread packs the next time you go grocery shopping. I'm sure your kids would also love having a hand in making their own nutritious snacks :D


Thursday, October 27, 2016

#KidsOnHOOQ Means More Cartoons and Family-Friendly Content

One of the concerns of parents with young kids is the content available on local TV. Sometimes, there just aren't good enough shows that are appropriate to be viewed by very young audiences. The thing is, children who can't wait for their favorite shows' time slots may resort to just watching whatever is on the tube at the moment, which may not be very kid-friendly.

Tita Ruth and Sam
Last week, HOOQ Philippines showcased its massive collection of family-friendly titles and animated series at the third HOOQ Hangouts, a pre-Halloween treat of the biggest outdoor cinema event series held at the Globe Iconic Store in Bonifacio Global City.

kids in costume who joined the trick or treat games
Like the previous events, HOOQ Hangouts, in cooperation with Samsung and Globe Live, turned the BGC Amphitheater into a free outdoor cinema venue with massive LED screens, beanbags, and cushioned benches so guests can fully enjoy the show. This #SpHOOQtacular event featured games and prizes for little ones who came in costumes before the screening of Monster House, an Academy Award nominee for Best Animated Feature horror-comedy produced by Steven Spielberg and Robert Zemeckis. 

3rd HOOQ Hangouts with its very cool setup

Sunday, October 23, 2016

5 Reasons to Make a Beeline for Great Deals in Revitalized Tutuban Center

I haven't been to the Divisoria area for years so when I had the chance to visit the place last week, I excitedly looked forward to the trip, knowing quite well there will be shopping involved. After all, the area is known for its really affordable merchandise items.

the revitalized Tutuban Center
That morning, my husband and I went straight to Tutuban Center, the bargain hunter's paradise. It recently underwent a number of renovation work and building improvements just in time for the coming Christmas season and the changes are really good!

Here are five reasons why you should go there to do your Halloween and Christmas shopping:

1) Re-live history at the Tutuban Center Main Station, a heritage building with the Bonifacio Shrine across its entrance. This is where the original Tutuban train station built in the 1800s first stood. I love that steps were taken to preserve its history, which included repainting based on the heritage color palette as well as improving lighting for its facade's details. The building has also retained features like brick walls and century-old wrought iron pillars that lead all the way to the food court.

in front of the heritage building

Tuesday, October 18, 2016

How to Start Investing with a P5,000 Sun Life Prosperity Card

Many people think that investing is a complicated matter and should only be done with the help of a financial expert who requires considerable payment for the service. I used to think that way, too, until I discovered that this is just one part of handling personal finances and growing one’s money. 

I still see myself a newbie at investing though because I know that I still have so much to learn. That was why I signed up for Sun Life’s #Money4LifeChallenge, a series of monthly talks by Aya Laraya, a Registered Financial Planner. The goal was to empower bloggers who are interested to improve our knowledge on money matters.

inside the SLAMCI office
A few weeks ago, my blog post on 5 Things to Consider When Finding a Financial Advisor won me a Sun Life Prosperity Card worth P5,000. I’ve been wanting to invest in mutual funds for a couple of years now but hadn’t gotten round to exploring my options. The card made the decision for me and I am grateful :)

I activated the card by going to the Sun Life Building in Bonifacio Global City. There, I got help from John Natividad of the Sun Life Asset Management Company Inc. (SLAMCI) who assisted me in filling up the Investor Information Form, Investor Profile Questionnaire, and other relevant papers. 

John also patiently explained how easy it is to add to the initial investment through automatic bank transfers of P1,000 (minimum) each month. These subsequent additions will further help grow the investment as the years go by.

here's a great illustration about investing early
with fund values based on 10% annual returns 
By now, you’re probably wondering how the money would grow. Sun Life pools all the funds from individual investors and places these in investment vehicles that, so far, have been doing well for the past years. What I love about the Sun Life Prosperity Card is that it takes off much of the guesswork and headache because there are experienced fund managers who would handle your money for you. 

I would leave the more extensive explanations to a Sun Life Mutual Fund Advisor whom you can ask advice from as to what kind of mutual fund you should choose to invest in. Ask to speak to one when you visit any Sun Life Financial Philippines branch where you can purchase Prosperity Cards. They are very accommodating. 

Since Christmas is just around the corner, I highly recommend this as a great gift option because it is something unique that will appreciate over time. The Sun Life Prosperity Card allows recipients to have their own starter investment fund and help begin their personal finance journey towards a brighter future. Consider this: P5,000 will not earn much if you leave it for a long time inside a bank savings account. 

start your journey towards financial freedom, today!
Visit sunlifeprosperity.com.ph or call 849-9888 to know more. For inquiries on specific Sun Life Prosperity Card transactions, call 849-9452 / 849-9495 or email slamc@sunlife.com.


Saturday, September 24, 2016

Lady’s Choice Gives Moms a Chance to Win KidZania Manila Courtesy PaZZes!

A lot of studies have already proven the many benefits of educational play. These activities not only provide entertainment, but more so offer advantages for the many facets of a child's development. 

KidZania Manila mascots
Last year, KidZania Manila opened in Bonifacio Global City and it continues to delight thousands of children who loved role playing different "jobs" offered at the Interactive Kids' City. 

If your little one hasn't been there yet, here's your chance to win courtesy paZZes for you and your child ℅ Lady's Choice Philippines! 

First, you have to buy a Lady's Choice Roast Beef or Lady's Choice Chicken BBQ spread and keep the proof of purchase. TIP: Both flavors are really good! I suggest you try them both :)

choose your Lady's Choice flavor: #ChickenorBeef and join the promo!

Friday, September 09, 2016

Myth or Truth? Licealiz Launches Campaign on What Parents Need to Know About Lice Infestation and Prevention

I grew up in the province where adults would usually prohibit kids from playing outside under the sun because they believe we will get head lice if we do. I also heard warnings that kids who won't let their moms or grandmas remove lice from their heads will be flown off towards the mountains once the lice multiplied a thousand times.

the truth is, kids can get lice from direct contact with others who have infested heads 
It's funny to find out that celebrity mom, Love Añover, was also told the same things, and more, when she was growing up. Now that we're both mommies, I can totally relate to her story of having her child infected with head lice by their house helper. The same thing happened to my kids when they were still small.

One summer, my boys stayed with their cousin for a week and when they got home, their hair and scalps were crawling with lice! It turned out that my sister-in-law's helpers were infected and passed on the condition to all the kids they took care of. It took me days to diligently remove the nits (eggs) and lice by hand and by suyod from my boys' heads :(    

Licealiz brings the KKK campaign to public schools

Friday, August 12, 2016

Anne Curtis Once More Runs for Children to Commemorate UNICEF's 70th Anniversary

It's amazing how one whole year has already passed since UNICEF and its Celebrity Advocate for Children Anne Curtis initiated the Heroes for Children Run. I was there when Anne jubilantly crossed the finish line for her first 21k run and admired her determination to conquer her goals (read that story, here).

with fellow runner, Anne :)
This year, she is once more calling on runners to support UNICEF and Heroes for Children Run 2016. happening on September 4, 2016 at the SM Mall of Asia grounds. During the press conference held in F1 Hotel the other day, Anne was asked how she survived her first half marathon and she admitted that however hard it was to push herself, "Best effort talaga but I knew what I was running for and that kept me going."

Her motivation is UNICEF's First 1,000 Days campaign for children's health and nutrition needs. "I was deeply inspired by the support we received during last year's run. From children with disabilities to serious runners, the public came together for a great cause. This year, I'm inviting everyone once again to be a hero for children," implored Anne.

Anne Curtis, Lotta Sylwander, and Coach Rio Dela Cruz

Wednesday, July 20, 2016

SM Cares, UNICEF, Tanghalang Pilipino, and Camera Club Celebrate National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NSPR) Week

I support several advocacies because I genuinely believe in the big difference they make in people's lives. On top of my list is advocating for individuals with special needs because my third son is one and I would like to see them all treated with respect and dignity like any normal member of society.

14-year-old Marina Villa, a beautiful girl diagnosed with
Down Syndrome and Autism, has taught her family
the true meaning of patience, courage, humility, and unconditional love
This year, I am joining SM Cares, UNICEF, Tanghalang Pilipino, and the Camera Club of the Philippines in celebrating the National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week, which started last July 18. 

Elai Tovera suffers from Spastic Cerebral Palsy
(the same condition my son has) but remains
a dedicated student who is eager to learn and lights up
when talking about her school
I believe in their objective of raising awareness and helping create an inclusive environment for Children with Disabilities (CWDs) by highlighting their abilities instead of their disabilities. The campaign, called #ThisAbilityPH, features informative and educational activities for mall-goers through Tanghalang Pilipino's Sandosenang Sapatos stage play and an exhibit entitled See What I Can Do by the Camera Club where photos depict the everyday lives of CWDs.

VP Leni delivering a very inspiring speech

Friday, July 01, 2016

Giordano Launches Finding Dory Collection with Pieces Fit for Everyone in the Family

Finding Nemo remains one of my favorite Disney Pixar movies because it has a beautiful story and unforgettable characters. I can't believe it's been thirteen years since the film came out but I am so glad the producers heeded the clamor to come up with another one that features the friendly-but-forgetful blue tang fish voiced by Ellen Degeneres! Finding Dory, the much-anticipated movie follow-up, highlights the lovable character as she embarks on an exciting journey to reunite with her family.  

perfect for everyone in the family!
Following the success of movie tie-up campaigns like Monsters University and Inside Out, Giordano Philippines launches a new collection featuring the sequel, which gives importance to the value of family. Rochelle Tan, VP for Merchandising, shared, "Finding Dory brings out the significance of family [and] the movie represents the values that Giordano wants to push forward this year." 

#parentinggoals

Thursday, June 30, 2016

We Ran for Children's Health and Nutrition at World Vision Run 2016!

My husband and I believe in supporting advocacies that benefit children because they are our nation's future generations of leaders who need good foundations to become upright citizens in the years to come.

enthusiastic kids who joined the 500m race
On its fifth year, the annual charity event continues to promote a healthy lifestyle through running, while also raising funds to help secure a better future for thousands of Filipino children. This year's World Vision Run, co-presented by Run Rio Inc., not only called for support for children's education but also for their health and nutrition.

Marc Nelson, Miriam Quiambao, and Gelli Victor
before the 10k gun start
Did you know? Malnutrition is still the leading health problem among Filipino children. In fact, according to the National Nutrition Survey, 2 out of 10 kids under the age of five are malnourished and that, each year, 10 million children die before they reach their 5th birthday due to preventable diseases. 

with my barefoot running boys

Thursday, May 19, 2016

Enjoy Carless Sundays at Filinvest City Alabang

I love living in the South of Metro Manila. Although it takes us time, a lot of traffic, and toll fees to reach places like Makati or Ortigas, I always feel happy to be going home. Here, life may not be necessarily as laid back as we'd like it to be but my husband and I still try to make it as such. 

serenity in the middle of the city
How? We allot time for activities we enjoy doing! Thankfully, there are many areas in Alabang where those are possible. For instance, we have our established practice running route near Palms Country Club and there are so many dining places here, such as River Park, where we could do food trips with the family.  

a photo op with the Bambike
This past Sunday, hubby and I dropped by Filinvest City Alabang to join other physical fitness enthusiasts usher in Carless Sundays. Weekends, after all, should be devoted to relaxing and enjoying carefree moments without the traffic jams and pressures of work. The good news is, residents and visitors can freely roam around certain areas where people are encouraged to do stuff that do not involve driving any cars.

bikes and trikes for rent starting at P80.00/hour

Monday, May 02, 2016

BELO BABY Product Line: Meticulously Crafted For Delicate Skin

I have four kids and am very mindful of the products I use on them, especially when they were still very small. Although three are now taller than I am, my son with special needs remains the family’s baby.

always our baby
Our James has cerebral palsy. He cannot talk and walk, nor is able to even sit up by himself. Him being non-verbal poses a lot of challenges for us because we usually have to guess what he wants even though we try, as much as we can, to provide what we believe he needs.

It breaks my heart every time my son would cry nonstop for reasons we couldn’t figure out. Thus, we make all efforts to ensure he’s comfortable so he’ll be in a happy mood all day. 

When I was asked to review the new Belo Baby line of products, I immediately said yes because I wanted to know how gentle they are for my son’s skin, if they would keep him smelling fresh longer after we give him a bath, and if his skin would be kept hydrated and free from irritations.

the Belo Baby line 

Saturday, April 30, 2016

Alaska Milk Corporation Makes Drinking Milk More Fun with Disney-Themed Packaging

Every parent knows it can sometimes be hard to get kids to choose healthy food and drinks over less nutritious ones. Thus, it is good to know that Alaska Milk Corporation (focused on nourishing and developing every kid's mind and body) and Disney (bent on creating happiness and magical moments for kids and families) both aim to encourage healthy drinking habits among children. 

healthy and nutritious drinks with fun designs 
The other night, Alaska Ready-to-Drink (RTD) Milk Kids line, featuring Alaska Choco, Sweet Milk, and Yoghurt Drinks, joined hands with Disney to officially launch the fun-filled "Who will you be today?" campaign with specially designed Disney Frozen and Marvel themed milk drinks that boys and girls will definitely love.

create a tiara like Queen Elsa's or a mask like Iron Man's
Alaska Choco comes in 236ml, 185ml, and 110ml packs
With 30 designs, kids and kids-at-heart can use their imagination and be playful in choosing who they want to be with every Alaska RTD Kids drink. Let your children enjoy and choose their own adventures through different Frozen and Marvel characters along with the delicious selection of milk flavors. Isn't it great, moms and dads, that it would be so much easier to give your kids healthy and nutritious drinks? :)

cut out a web shooter ala-Spiderman or a nose like Olaf's
yoghurt drinks are available in strawberry, blueberry, green apple, and orange flavors
SRPs are P16.15 (180ml) and P10.90 (110ml)

Thursday, March 31, 2016

Banana Peel Sandals: Footwear Not Just for Summer

For the longest time, sandals were just considered summer footwear that one needs when going to the beach or for lounging around the house. However, ever-changing fashion trends have given birth to peoples' constant search for what's unique, chic, and … yes, Instagrammable!

pretty OOTD!
Features about sandals such as those from the New York Times' shower slide/sandal story that appeared on the pages of its T Magazine, a generous spread from Glamour Magazine's online pages, and an Essentials slide feature under the Fashion & Style banner of the NY Times, are proof that the once simple pair of sandals have come a long way and already arrived in style.   

In the Philippines, Banana Peel has once more redefined its customers' favorite must-have footwear by coming up with a variety of sandals for all seasons while keeping in mind form, function, and fashion. The flip flops specialty retailer offers the following:

Paprika sandals

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

Fun Family Activities You Can Do at Residence Inn Tagaytay

There's something about being with animals that speaks to the heart. Our special child, who cannot walk nor talk, has repeatedly shown immense joy whenever he gets to interact with them. This is the main reason why I scheduled a visit to Residence Inn when we recently went to Tagaytay.

taking a break from Manila's hot weather
James was still very small when we first brought him to this place many years ago. It was his brothers who enjoyed roaming around the place and checking out the many things to see and do there. I had a chance to go back with my youngest son in 2012 during a media tour but his brother wasn't with us.

James finding the horses funny
This time around, we got to go as a family (minus two sons who had exams and work) and rediscovered the wonders of the animal kingdom that can be found at Residence Inn. Here's sharing the things we did:

1. Photo op with a baby tiger. Only Daddy and James went in because there's an extra fee (P50) to have photos taken with the cub. Guests will be able to touch the animal while it's being fed. 

James fascinated at being this close to a real tiger