Mega Maui from JAKKS Pacific

With the popularity of the movie Moana, much of the attention has been given to the newest Disney princess. However a big (no pun intended) part of her story is the demigod Maui. JAKKS Pacific has a talking version of this fun character for ages 3 and up.

Mega Maui is over 16 inches tall. He is also about 14 inches wide, making him a pretty formidable figure. His feet alone are 4 inches long. This guy is made of hard plastic so he’s not a cuddly plush, but he is fun to hold. As in the film Maui is covered with his tattoos, he wears his leaf skirt, his hair is squishable plastic, and he comes with his intricately carved fishhook that he can actually hold. The hook is removable so kids can play with it themselves.

What makes Mega Maui even more fun is he talks. Simply press his “bone” necklace and he says one of 12 movie phrases and sings the hit song, “You’re Welcome.”
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This fellow sports his wide grin and intriguing eyes. He comes to life with the 2 AAA batteries that are included. With his movie phrases and song it’s fun for kids to recreate scenes from the hit film. And Maui is a character that appeals to both boys and girls, however this fellow will likely be enjoyed mostly by boys.

Not only can kids recreate scenes from the instant classic film, they can make up their own situations with Maui. Imaginations will run wild with this figure/doll, as with the character himself! With his poseable arms, Maui is ready for hugs – or adventure.

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“Do you know who Maui is? Only the greatest demigod in all the South Pacific. With his magical fishhook he slowed down the sun, battled monsters. And I should know. Because I’m Maui.” That’s just one of the movie phrases spoken by Dwayne Johnson – and Mega Maui.

Because of his size, it’s easy to see the intricacies of his tattoos. Kids might also enjoy drawing their own tattoos on paper.

Mega Maui is definitely a toy that will provide hours of fun for kids. Because of his size – he is “mega” after all – he is a bit on the weighty side so it will be difficult for very small kids to carry him.

JAKKS Pacific has been producing toys and products since 1995. The company has strong ties with Disney and other companies. They have an impressive line of Moana toys.

Mega Maui lists for $49.99.

About the Reviewer

Francine Brokaw writes about products, travel, and entertainment. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books.

Follow her on Twitter

Free Printable Holiday Cards from Cricket Media

THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, SEND WARM WISHES TO EVERYONE ON YOUR LIST WITH FREE PRINTABLE CARDS FROM CRICKET MEDIA

When you’ve been around for more than 40 years, Cricket Media has some best-loved annual traditions. And a long-time favorite of Cricket fans has been FREE printable cards for the holidays!

For the 2016 holiday season, Cricket Media has selected 10 of their favorite holiday illustrations and created beautiful cards for you to share and send to loved ones.

To print them out, visit FREE HOLIDAY CARDS and follow the instructions.

And remember, it’s not too late to give the gift of reading this holiday season with a subscription to one of Cricket Media’s award-winning parenting magazines. To truly embody the spirit of the season, you may want to explore Cricket’s “Double the Giving” Campaign.

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‘Born in China’ coming from DisneyNature

Disneynature welcomes John Krasinski into the family as the narrator of BORN IN CHINA.

“I’ve been a huge fan of the Disneynature films for a really long time,” said Krasinski. “I think I’ve seen them all a couple times and to be asked to be a part of something that I feel is not only so beautiful and such great storytelling, but is so important, I was honored to be a part of it. To find this unbelievable landscape that was far beyond the cities and the bustling crowds of the China that I thought I knew was just fascinating.”

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Grand Hyatt Kauai is a fun family resort


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What better way to spend some quality family time than in a resort that not only appeals to adults but also to kids? If you’re looking for the perfect place for a family vacation, check out the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa in Koloa, Hawaii.

The resort offers all the usual amenities people have come to expect from Hyatt. The rooms are comfortable (and come with cookies at bedtime) and the resort is located near some of Kauai’s most beloved scenic and tourist areas. Every room has a Toto Washlet toilet. A warm seat and a little spritz often make all the difference in the world!
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For youngsters there is Camp Hyatt on the premises. Kids between the ages of 3 and 12 – and are potty trained – can take part in the daily activities. This provides some fun experiences for kids besides simply playing at the pool, with plenty of games, crafts, and other activities.
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Parents can sign their kids up for full or half days (reservations are required and multiple siblings get a discount). There are scavenger hunts, Gecko hunts, Hawaiian leaf painting, a Hydroponic Garden tour, Koi feeding, Hula lessons, and plenty of other crafts and activities geared for children.
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The resident parrots are available for visits and some “Parrot Talk,” in which a wildlife attendant tells all about these beautiful birds. Don’t forget to get a photo with one or all of them: Niele (Hyacinth Macaw), Rico (Green Winged Macaw), Duke (Blue and Gold Macaw), and Malie (Moluccan Cockatoo).

Adults can relax by the pool (there is one set aside specifically for adults), play golf, snorkel, scuba, or enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Poipu Beach area.

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Several restaurants provide a large variety of choices for even the finickiest eater. Tidepools has become my favorite place to dine in the resort. Not only is the food delicious, but it is situated in one of the most scenic areas of the property. Honestly, I could sit there all day. If you’re in the mood for Italian, you have to try Dondero’s. And for a great buffet breakfast, make sure you go to the Ilima Terrace. Don’t forget to put some Coconut syrup on your French Toast or pancakes.

Something many articles forget to mention about dining in resorts is the variety for dietary restrictions. Don’t worry about that here. As a vegetarian I can assure you there are plenty of great options for vegetarians, namely the veggie burger poolside. It was so good I had to have it a second time.
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And speaking of poolside, there are some wonderful alcoholic and nonalcoholic libations that can be delivered to you while you’re soaking up the sun. And for the kids – and adults – there is ice cream as well as shave ice. Plenty of blowup items are offered to rent or purchase to play with in the water. Guests of the hotel receive complimentary towels poolside.

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Throughout the resort are complimentary Flowater stations. Simply take your water bottle to one of these stations and fill it with purified water for healthy hydration. These units provide state-of-the-art purification and what you get is clean, chilled, tasty water, any time you want. No more plastic bottles to keep purchasing. Just find the nearest Flowater station and get your delicious H2O.

At poolside there is a sunscreen booth that, for a few dollars, will spray sunscreen on your body. Goggles are supplied by the hotel for users of this machine. But that’s no reason not to pack your own sunscreen. The Hawaiian sun is strong.

Besides the pool, with its enticing slide that jets guests into the water, there is a saltwater lagoon. After all, this is Hawaii so who wouldn’t want to experience the ocean while visiting the island?
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The piece de resistance for adults at the resort is the Anara Spa. If you want to relax, this is the place to do it. The spa classes and the well-equipped fitness room are available for all guests. Additional fees are required for access to the main spa, which includes a steam room and a sauna room, one of each for men and women. Lockers and whirlpools are also part of this experience, and complimentary sandals and robes are supplied while in the spa location. Specialty treatments include a variety of massages, salon services, and combo packs. Talk about a great way to relieve tension! Plus there are couples treatments as well as a stress and muscle tension relieving float therapy. This has to be experienced to understand it. It’s almost like experiencing zero gravity. And before heading back to your room, experience a lava shower under the open sky. Don’t worry. No on can see you. It’s simply a fun Hawaiian experience.

There is no charge for self-parking so it is advisable to rent a car to explore other areas of the island.

The bottom line is the Grand Hyatt Kauai is a wonderful destination for families.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 20 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books.

Follow her on Twitter

Kauai – the Island home of Lilo and Stitch


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Kauai is called “The Garden Island” because it is so lush and tropical. It’s the oldest of the main Hawaiian Islands. It is also the home of Lilo and Stitch. Recently, we went on a tour of this beautiful island with Lilo as our guide.

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First of all, Lilo knows everything there is to know about the island and wanted us to see the splendors of her home. We hung our hats at the spectacular Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa in Koloa. This place is magnificent. There is plenty to do at this resort, or simply hang loose by the pool. The sunrises from our room were magnificent. Located on the Southern tip of the island, near the Poipu Beach area, beauty surrounds the resort.

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The town next to the resort is Old Koloa Town where we spent a couple evenings browsing around the shops and eating dinner. If you’re in the mood for pizza, check out Pizzetta. It’s a favorite spot for locals as well as mainlanders craving a tasty pizza. Personally, we enjoyed the Garden Island Grille. It offers plenty of choices as well as live evening entertainment. Come for the food but stay for the entertainment.

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A short drive west is Hanapepe, Lilo’s hometown. There is even a portrait of Lilo, Nani, and Stitch in the center of town. Lilo posed next to the mural for us.

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Hanapepe is a sleepy little town filled with artistic talents and the feeling of old Hawaii combined with a touch of the mid-century flowerchild aura. Kauai has a population of a little over 65,000 living in the 552 miles of the island. Only about 2,638 people reside in Hanapepe. If you visit Hawaii you’ll notice the Lappert’s ice cream shops around the islands. Hanapepe is the headquarters of this business. Don’t miss out on visiting The Bookstore – Talk Story, which is the westernmost bookstore in the country. Every time I have been there I have found something interesting to purchase. The Banana Patch Studio sells hand-painted pottery and look through the window to watch the artists painting the plates and cups. It’s inspiring.
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The Hanapepe Swinging Bridge is one of the most visited attractions in the town. This suspension bridge is not for the faint of heart, especially when it is windy and there are a lot of people trying to cross at the same time. A walk across the bridge affords visitors a view of the riverbank they won’t get driving down the main street.

On Friday nights the town has a crafts and food fair on the main street. It’s here where visitors can select unique and handmade items as well as indulge in delicious food for all kinds of appetites. The Friday Night Art Walk runs from 6-9 so make sure you are in town for this fun event.

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Further up the coast is Waimea town and the Waimea Canyon. Waimea Canyon is “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific” and Lilo was all too excited to show us that the geography looked just like the Grand Canyon in Arizona, proving Hawaii has a little of everything.

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Another day Lilo took us to the Kauai Coffee Estate, which is also west of the resort. Forget about Kona Coffee (from the big island), on Kauai you must drink the Kauai Coffee. The Estate is the largest coffee farm in the United States. They offer guided tours as well as self-guided walking tours. They also have a tasting area where you are free to try any number of delicious coffees. Don’t be bashful. Grab a cup and start pumping. You’ll find something you will want to take home with you. I still cannot get the deliciousness of the Toasty Banana Nut Cream coffee out of my head. And, of course, there is a shop where you can purchase bags of your favorite flavors or souvenirs. We were thankful we didn’t have Stitch with us. After all, we all know how much that little guy loves coffee.

If you drove from the airport in Lihue to the Grand Hyatt Kauai, you passed the Kilohana Plantation. This gorgeous 105 acre old-Hawaii plantation is a fun place to visit. There are shops of all kinds of items, a short train ride around the tropical beauty of the land, Gaylord’s Restaurant for a flavorful dining experience, the Koloa Rum Company where they have tastings as well as a shop to purchase your own libations and other items, and a Lu’au. The Kilohana Plantation was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974 and has interesting buildings to explore as well imagine yourself living in grand style on this magnificent estate.

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Up on the northern coast of Kauai are Princeville and Hanalei Bay. These areas are a bit more touristy, in many ways. However, the lushness of the land is magnificent. This is a much wetter area of the island than down near the Hyatt resort. Check out the Dry Cave up on this part of the island. And purchase a fresh coconut. There’s nothing like it.

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And speaking of wet spots, Mount Waialeale, with an elevation of 5148 feet is one of the wettest spots on earth.

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On your drive up north, visit the Kiluea Lighthouse. Lilo first introduced it to Stitch in their first adventure together. It sits on the tip of the island with plenty of wildlife surrounding it. How many birds can you spot?

There is plenty more to see and do on Kauai. It’s a beautiful island and offers plenty of sights to see, activites to experience, and also the Aloha spirit. We want to thank Lilo for coming to the airport to personally bid us “Aloha.”

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About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 20 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books.

Follow her on Twitter

‘Elena of Avalor: Ready to Rule’ on DVD


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Elena of Avalor is a popular series on Disney Channel. Elena is the second TV Disney princess, following Sofia the First. While Sofia became a princess when her mother married the king, Elena was born into royalty, along with her sister Isabel. Then on her 16th birthday an evil sorcerer trapped the young princess inside an amulet and her grandparents and Isabel inside an enchanted painting. Now, 41 years later, they are all freed, and their new adventures begin.

Elena is anxious to be crowned queen, however on the day of her coronation she learns she is still too young to rule, even though she is in fact 57 years old. The 41 years she spent trapped inside the amulet don’t count. She is still only 16 years old.

The first episode, “First Day of Rule,” sets the magic tone for this fairy tale land. Elena is anxious to help everyone in her kingdom and comes across some shapeshifting creatures known as Noblins. They too were unjustly treated by the evil sorcerer. She proves she is worthy of the crown, however, she knows she needs some time before she takes over, so she and the Grand Council (Francisco, her grandfather, Luisa, her grandmother, Duke Esteban, her older cousin, and Naomi, her new friend) will help guide her on the path to becoming Queen. And Elena also has Zuzo, an animal spirit guide to help steer her in the right direction.

Two more episodes are included in this new DVD. “All Heated Up” Elena and the Grand Council have different views as to how to stop a magical rock from erupting. Her kindness wins out. And in “Island of Youth,” while preparing a surprise birthday party for her cousin Esteban, he drinks too much from the Fountain of Youth and turns into a small child. Elena must save him.

Elena has a magical “scepter of light,” a beautiful glowing scepter that gives her special powers. A miniature projection scepter is included in the box. When the button is pressed, the scepter lights up and emits an image of Elena.

Flying creatures called jaquins (Luna, Skylar, and Migs) are half bird and half jaguar and very colorful. They are part of life in Avalor. Magic, mythology and folklore come into play in this series as Disney presents its first Latin princess. Elena learns not only how to lead, but also the importance of family, friends and self. She wants to do her best at everything and that involves making the right decisions.

Elena of Avalor: Ready to Rule is rated TVY.

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About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 20 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books.

Follow her on Twitter

‘Hairspray Live!’ on NBC


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The latest musical to make its way onto live TV is Hairspray. This is the story of life in the 1960s, segregation, integration, and self-awareness.

Harvey Fierstein takes on the role of Edna Turnblad, one he embodied on the stage. He admitted he had not seen the film version with John Travolta in that role. He was also excited to bring the show to viewers live. The themes in the story are important to him and all the cast. “You know, music just brings us all together in a way that words just don’t, and when you see a story like this, which is told in such good humor and with such warm heart and such good purpose, I think it will do wonders. I hope so. That’s our aim, and we are each in this together to do that.”

Fierstein is definitely looking forward to the live telecast. “I am going to have the unbelievable honor of having Marty Short as my husband. Who would not want to have a love affair with Marty Short and to sing that wonderful ‘Timeless to Me,’ to do a duet with him?”

Maddie Baillio takes on the iconic role of Tracey Turnblad, the teen with a little extra weight but a lot of guts and moxie. “This is surreal,” the actress told the media. “This was my first audition outside of college and school.”

Ariana Grande is playing Penny Pingleton, Tracey’s best friend. “I never thought it would actually happen. It’s kind of surreal for me to even be a part of this,” she exclaimed. “I’m so grateful.” She added with plenty of enthusiasm, “Playing Penny has literally been a dream of mine since the original Broadway cast, since Kerry Butler originated the role. It’s a dream come true for me. So I don’t want to change anything about the role or, you know, how she develops. I just love Penny, and it’s just such a great honor to play her. So I don’t want any sort of special icing or parts. This is, like, really great, and I’m so happy.”
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Kristin Chenoweth takes on the role of Velma Von Tussle, the woman who has ulterior motives when casting the dancing contest – her daughter. “I actually wanted to play this role originally back in ‘98, but I was too young, so I was hoping to graduate into one of the parts and here I sit. I saw the original movie and I guess now it’s the right time…”

Taking on the role of Maybelline is Jennifer Hudson, who admitted she was nervous about doing live TV. She adores the story and acknowledged, “So I feel I’ve been reintroduced to it in a different way now, now that I’m a part of it. I’m seeing it differently.

Derek Hough appears as Corny Collins, the TV personality and host of the dance show. Hough had done musicals in London prior to joining Dancing with the Stars. “And so to kind of get back into musical theater is a beautiful, beautiful thing, and I’m very excited about it and also just so excited to be among such incredible artists and human beings and people to, sort of, elevate and to reignite that sort of musical passion. So I’m excited.”

Hairspray Live! will air on NBC on December 7.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 20 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books.

Follow her on Twitter

Irving Berlin’s White Christmas: The Musical


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Last night was the best way to kick off the holiday season at the opening night production of the musical play “White Christmas” at LA’s Pantages Theater. Honestly, having grown up with the classic film and having watched it at least once a year for many decades, I wasn’t sure what to expect from a Broadway play. After all, I knew all the nuances of every scene. But I must admit I was pleased with the production and it left me with a warm feeling and without any disappointment whatsoever.

While my vision of the story plays out in my head by the film actors, the stage actors did their roles justice. The choreography was fun and the songs were wonderful. Of course there had to be changes from the film version, but the way the story unfolds on the stage is a fun and different adventure for the audience to experience. The man next to me said he had never seen the movie (which I found almost impossible) and said he loved every moment of the play.

The high point is the finale when the entire production gathers on stage and encourages the audience to join in in the title song. While the whole theater is singing “White Christmas,” snow falls over the front part of the theater. It is an experience that puts everyone in a holiday spirit and a smile on everyone’s face. Indeed, it was a fun night filled with music, dances, and theatrical enjoyment.

If you go expecting a stage version of the film, you will be mistaken. Yes, the story is basically the same, but how the characters get from point A to point B is just a little different than the film version. However, it all makes sense and is filled with all the joy that the story, songs, dances, and the music of Irving Berlin intended. Don’t hesitate to catch this production if you can.

It runs in LA until December 4. Check the website for other locations.

About the Reviewer

Francine Brokaw writes about products, travel, and entertainment. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books.

Follow her on Twitter

Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, Hawai’i

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Ohana means family, and everyone at Aulani truly knows how to make you feel like part of their ohana.

Upon arrival, you’re greeted with big smiles and the traditional lei. Once in the lobby, the beautiful high ceilings and artwork are a sight to behold. “As guests enter, they are flanked by a ki’i representing masculinity on the right, and a ki’i representing femininity on the left.” “A third piece, topped with the image of the ‘io, or Hawaiian hawk, represents the many generations of Hawaiian people who descended from these ancestors. (disneyaulaninews.com)

The Resort

The rooms are gorgeous and highlight the Hawaiian culture in big and small ways, from the lamps made with the same lava stone as the Pohaku ku’i ‘ai (poi pounders), to the rugs featuring taro leaves typical of Hawai’i.  The “rooms are angled and views include ocean and partial-ocean, poolside garden, island garden, and standard”. (disneyaulaninews.com)

The concept of femininity and masculinity are echoed throughout the resort, with a mural of goddess Hina on the outside of one building, and a mural of demi-god Maui on the other.

Laniwai Spa

The word Laniwai means “freshwater heaven”. As Lucia Rodriguez, Spa Director, explained, Laniwai features 15 treatment rooms, each with a name inspired by rainbows, a full service salon and fitness center, and a hydrotherapy garden.

If you’re getting a spa treatment, plan on enjoying the Kula Wai Hydrotherapy Garden. “The 5,000-square-foot garden retreat offers pampering amenities, including private vitality pools, a reflexology path, six rain-style showers, whirlpool jet spas and a lounge area with a menu of healthy snacks”. (disneyaulaninews.com). Ask for a menu as you come in and enjoy lunch in the garden. You won’t be sorry.

Dining

There are plenty of dining options at Aulani.

If you want a quick bite, visit the Ulu Café. They offer fast service and plenty of options. Quick tip: buy the Aulani refillable mug when you arrive, and you will be able to reuse it throughout your stay (excludes alcoholic drinks).

You can’t miss the Disney Character Breakfast at Makahiki. The buffet is amazing, and who can say no to Mickey-shaped pancakes? The best part: Mickey and Minney come by to say “Aloha!” to all the guests!

For a beautiful dining experience, visit ‘AMA’AMA, the resort’s signature restaurant, located just steps away from the beach. Their menu consists of Contemporary Island cooking made with fresh local ingredients. Make dinner reservations and enjoy a stunning sunset worthy of a movie scene.

Entertainment

Pick up The Daily ‘Iwa, the resort newsletter, for a list of daily activities and entertainment offered at the resort for guests of all ages. Just a few of your options are:

Aunty’s Beach House

A “5,200-square-foot, state-of-the-art kids club designed to entertain and delight”. (disneyaulaninews.com) Kids, 3-12 yrs, can become part of Aunty’s extended ohana, while parents relax and enjoy some alone-time.

Stop by from 8-9:30 for the open house, and register your kids online (at least 2 but no more than 90 days ahead of time) to save time.

Children with special needs are accepted on a case by case basis.

Mo’Olelo Fire Pit Storytelling with Uncle and Moana

Learn about Hawaii’s  legend and lore as you listen to master storyteller, Uncle, with his special guest, Moana, Disney’s newest heroine. The entire family will be mesmerized “as the stories come to life with magical effects”. (disneyaulaninews.com)

Island Excursions: Gold Coast Catamaran Experience

Sail aboard a 53-foot catamaran and enjoy an exciting adventure with Hawaii Nautical! During the shuttle ride to the beach, Adventure Guides will regale visitors with fun facts about Hawai’i flora, fauna, and folklore! Once aboard the catamaran, a lunch will be served. Bring your swimsuits and jump in the water for some snorkeling, or simply enjoy the tranquil view of Oahu’s Leeward Coast.

Other adventures offered include horseback riding, kayaking through protected inlets, and more.

KA WA’A – A Lu’au at Aulani

If you’re visiting Aulani you simply cannot miss their new and exciting KA WA’A luau! Disney incorporates Hawai’i tradition, music, and storytelling to create an unforgettable show that will move and inspire you.

“KA WA’A or “the canoe,” symbolizes the incredible journey across the ocean by the Hawaiian people–from ancient times to the present day.”  (disneyaulaninews.com)

Before the luau, Disney cast members will teach you and your little ones the art of lei making, ku’i kalo (taro pounding), kāpala (printing), and the hula kahiko, a traditional Hawaiian dance.

Guest will also enjoy a veritable feast of traditional foods and lively music.

For your next family vacation, Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, Hawai’i, should definitely be at the top of your list!

For more information, visit DisneyAulani.com

 

Daniel Tiger Toys

It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood with Daniel Tiger and his family and friends. This celebrated PBS Kids series for preschoolers, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, has garnered a lot of praise and won the Television Critics Association 2016 award for best children’s program.

The Deluxe Electronic Trolley is a fun way for kids to “play” in the neighborhood with Daniel and his mom. The motorized trolley lights up and has two songs as well as 12 phrases from the characters in the show. It also emits real trolley sounds.

Push the top left button and the headlights turn on and the trolley song plays. Press the tiger button and Daniel asks, “Do you want to take a ride on trolley with me?” Press it again and he says, “It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood.” There are more sayings from Daniel and when the other buttons are pushed there are sayings from those characters as well. It’s a fun-filled trolley, especially when the top left button is pressed. It’s then when the trolley sounds come on with the headlights. How cool is that?

Also included in this set is a traffic stop so kids can obey the rules. It’s also a good way to help them understand when it’s safe to walk (when the green walking diagram is visible).

Push a button and the trolley rolls ahead. A handle on top makes it easy to carry and a fun set to take when visiting grandma or going out to the park to play.

This set comes with the two figures however many of the other characters from the show are available to purchase in separate sets to add to this trolley. The Deluxe Electronic Trolley requires 3 AA batteries, which are included in the box. This set brings all the fun and imagination of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood to your own house. This trolley set is designed for ages 3+ and lists for $29.99.

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There’s even more fun with the Daniel Tiger Phone. It looks just like a smartphone only is much easier to use! You won’t have to buy a “Smartphone for Dummies” book to use this one!

There is an on/off sliding button on the side. The phone includes real phone sounds and when the little trolley is slid from one side to the other, it jingles. The front of the phone has a keyboard as well as six photo buttons with various characters. When a number button is pressed, the number is   said allowed so kids can easily learn their numbers from zero to nine.

When a character button is pressed the characters talk. There are 11 phrases in all, including Daniel saying, “Hi neighbor, it’s me. Daniel Tiger.” And when the two little phone icon buttons are pressed the Daniel Tiger song plays.

The Daniel Tiger Phone is for ages 2+ and lists for $9.99.

Daniel Tiger is a beloved character and his father entertained generations of viewers on the original Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. Daniel is a sweet little guy with a lot of heart. With these toys kids can let their imaginations soar along with Daniel and his friends in the neighborhood.

About the Reviewer

Francine Brokaw writes about products, travel, and entertainment. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books.

Follow her on Twitter