Olympics & Paralympics 2012

There is always so much hype surrounding the Olympic Games, so I thought I'd introduce you all to someone very important for the Paralympic Games... say "Hello" to Mandeville - the mascot for the Paralympic Games 2012.  He's a cute and cuddly figure who represents the ethos of the Paralympic Games.

Each Paralympic and Olympic Games has a mascot, everyone knows that, right?  But I was amazed to find out that the mascot is usually an animal native to the area or a human figure representing the cultural heritage of the host country.  I must say that I haven't seen many of these characters wandering around the UK recently!  But, there are important symbols coming through the mascot.  The head shape represents the 3 colours of the Paralympic Games symbol, the taxi light on it's forehead represents the London Black Taxis and the wristband on the right wrist is a personal best timer to help keep track of performance.

Paralympic Symbol

Whilst typing this tonight, I'm watching the fantastic opening ceremony of the Olympics and Paralympics and I must say that I'm proud to support Team GB... we saw the Olympic flame pass through a local town back in May which feels ages ago and tonight's ceremony concludes the journey of the flame and it is a great celebration of everything British.

No doubt I'll be writing again about the Olympics and Paralympics over the next few weeks - I'm not extremely "sporty" but enjoy watching the heats and finals with my children - it shows them how hard work and determination can pay off.  The variety of events and ages of competitors makes it interesting too.  This year, we are going to find all of the countries (if we can!) on our world map as they achieve their medals - quick geography lesson and fun at the same time!

Pre-School Toys Bundle Giveaway!

Following the Christmas In July event that I attended last week, I have a bundle of pre-school toys for one of you lucky guys to win!

Courtesey of vTech Baby, Tolo Toys, Halilit and Play To Z I have a selection of toys great for keeping your little one occupied whilst the weather is less than great!

We have up for grabs a fantastic vTech Toot-Toot Drivers cement mixer truck, with sounds and lights, a cute little squeaky penguin from Tolo Toys, a Handy Bells percussion instrument from Halilit and a Treasure Trove Stone Hoop from Play To Z. 

The vTech Toot-Toot Drivers range is a great range of toys for both boys and girls - it is suitable for ages 12+ months.  The developmental benefits include motor skills development, sensory development and creates imaginative play.  Even though my youngest is now 5 years old, he would still love playing with this!

The lovely little penguin from Tolo Toys is a cute character which again promotes imaginative play and is designed with safety and durability in mind.  There are no painted surfaces on the penguin, so the quality standard will remain high thoughout it's play time life!  Tolo Toys also help to promote the idea of cause and effect with sounds (squeak-squeak, click-click!) being produced as a result of the actions and movements the child makes.  It is suitable for ages 1-5 years old.

The Handy Bells are a child-friendly percussion instrument which will introduce your child to the joy of music making.  It will foster creativity, is a means for self-expression and develop imagination.  The Handy Bells are suitable for age 24+ months.

Last but by no means least, the Treasure Trove Stone Hoop from Play To Z is a simple but fantastic additional to your toy box.  It can be used alone or part of your Treasure Basket playtimes, encouraging creativity and supports children's play in a multitude of ways.

These all make great stocking fillers for your little ones - thinking ahead to Christmas 2012 now!


Watch out for more Christmas toy's reviews over the next few weeks as I compile my Christmas 2012 wish list.

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