2011 Holiday Gifts for Kids {Let's Rock! Elmo GIVEAWAY}

If you're celebrating Hanukkah, Happy Hanukkah! I've got some super last minute gift ideas for the kiddies. You know, in case you're in need of assistance and all. I've also got a giveaway, but since I've been busy enjoying good company for the holidays, this giveaway comes to you a little late. But no worries, though. The winner will have it just in time... for New Years.

Shoes For Me! by Sue Fliess

This story is about America's favorite past time... shopping! Hippo has outgrown her shoes so she has to head to the department store to buy a new pair. The book is colorful, engaging, and overall fun to read. The rhyming makes it super easy for little ones to keep up with the storyline and provides a good laugh. I read it to Aiden and he liked it a lot. Then I had his teacher read it to the Pre-K class and the kids enjoyed it as well. No doubt about it, it's a hit! Details: Ages 4 and up. $12.99. Buy it here.

Madame Alexander StinkyKids Dolls

{StinkyKid Britt}

{StinkyKid Billy}

These 12" soft-bodied dolls each have their own distinct personalities. Each doll comes with a card that lists his/her hobbies, favorite foods, colors, and other things. StinkyKids donates a percentage of their profits to a cancer related charity, Books, Bears, and Bonnets, Inc. Talk about generosity! Love it! Details: Ages 0 and up. $16.50. Buy it here.

Kickboard Scooter

Whether it's a mini kick for younger ones, maxi kick for older kids, or an adult kickboard, there's really not a better way to get around than with this baby. It rides so smooth and feels as though you're surfing the sidewalk. Aiden has one and he loves it to pieces. So much so that he always wants to take it out. I really want one for myself so that I can keep up with the kid. Buy it here.

Let's Rock! Elmo

{Randy Jackson and Elmo}

{The Real Elmo}

This toy came out a few months ago and Aiden and I had a chance to attend the launch party at the Empire Hotel in Midtown Manhattan. Not only did we get to mix and mingle with Randy Jackson, but we also were able to meet the "real" Elmo aka the man behind the voice. It was just so much fun! This toy is so much fun to play with and I'm sure it'll put a smile on your kid's face. So why don't we? Put a smile on one lucky reader's kid face, that is!

GIVEAWAY!
One (1) lucky Mommy Delicious reader will win the Let's Rock! Elmo! Want it to be you?

Mandatory entry: "Like" Mommy Delicious on Facebook AND "like" a post on the Mommy Delicious Facebook page. Leave a comment saying that you have done both things.

Want an extra entry? Share this giveaway on Facebook. Leave a comment saying that you've done so.

Want an extra entry? Follow Mommy Delicious on Twitter AND tweet about this giveaway. Make sure to @MommyDelicious when you tweet! Leave a separate comment saying that you've done so.

The winner will be chosen via Random.org on Monday, December 26th and the toy will be mailed out on the 27th so please leave your contact information in case you win!

Good Luck and happy last minute shopping!

UPDATED: WINNER ANNOUNCED -- MaWhat'sForDinner! Congrats! Look out for an email from me!

{Disclaimer: I was not compensated for this post. I received Shoes For Me! for purposes of this review. I  received a Let's Rock! Elmo for purposes of this review.}

Holiday Tips to Live By

By Amanda Tradwick

The holidays can be a stressful time for any parent: planning a budget that you won’t be paying for until the next holiday season, negotiating time with family and friends, and trying to find time for yourself in all the chaos. For single parents, it can be even more difficult. Budgets are tighter, family negotiations are more tense, and “free time” seems like an elusive dream. Fortunately, there are a few tips you can follow to make holidays as a single parent a bit easier:

Plan Ahead

Start talking to your former partner early about how you will celebrate the holidays: How much money will you each spend on gifts? Who will purchase what? When will you each spend time with the children? Negotiate these details early so that you have a clear idea of shared responsibilities and scheduling. Don’t wait until the last minute to realize that your parents really want a huge family gathering this year but your former partner has already promised time with his or her family. Avoid conflicts and hurt feelings by working out all the details ahead of time.

Stick to A Budget

Don’t let the holidays break your bank by trying to buy a bunch of gifts to compensate for you and your partner’s split. You are already on a limited budget as a single parent, and you must be disciplined if you are to survive the holidays without going into debt. Set a reasonable budget for yourself, and plan ahead by saving or finding ways to make extra cash for the holidays. Focus on thoughtful gifts to be sure that you are not wasting money on items that will go unused or unappreciated. Make gifts where you can. Many handmade or sentimental gifts often have more value than those bought in a store.

Focus On Holiday Cheer

The holidays can be challenging emotionally, especially if you are single or are recently separated from your partner. Do what you can to avoid any conflict or awkward moments with your ex. This will only exacerbate your own struggle and will make the situation more difficult for your children. Instead, focus on making the holidays as cheerful as you can. Be cordial to your ex when you have to see each other, and spend the rest of your time with friends and family who are positive influences.

Spread Out Your Celebrations

It’s called the holiday “season” for a reason. You don’t have to focus all your celebrations on one day. Instead, participate in a variety of activities as a family to spread your holiday cheer. Spend time together decorating your home, making baked goods for your family and friends, or singing carols and watching holiday movies. Enjoying a number of smaller celebrations and family traditions throughout the season will minimize any hard feelings or loneliness felt if you are unable to be with your children all day on the actual holiday.

Gather With Friends

Find support in other single parents and friends by attending adult-only gatherings or by hosting a special celebration for other single parents and their children. You can share your holidays with this new “extended family” and find support from others who understand the issues you are facing. Your gathering can also become a new tradition!

With a little planning, the holidays need not be a stressful time. Starting early and finding support where you need it will be crucial to making the holiday a little brighter when you are a single parent. What other ways have you found to make the holidays a bit easier? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Amanda Tradwick is a grant researcher and writer for CollegeGrants.org. She has a BA from the University of Delaware and has recently finished research on grants for adults returning to college and Pennsylvania education grants.