Hello and happy Marvelous Monday!
We’ve been battling a bit of a weekend cold (thanks warm weather + snow + warm weather), and staying inside and happy while being productive is a hard thing. For me, working every day means I have to have an hour or so of downtime, which rarely happens on the weekends (we’re a busy crew), so I was super thankful this weekend for our FarFaria app, which I bought Addie a few months ago (yep, bought it).
We keep it on my tablet so she can use it whenever we need a break. I resort to only one app, and FarFaria’s vast choices make it easy to stay that way. Addie gets to learn some technology, colors, symbols, like green and a triangle for “play”, but also new songs and clapping games (like Bingo!). The app is great because it reads the books aloud, if your child is pre-independent reading level- perfect for my sweet Addie!
So… what’s this awesome app have to do with Marvelous Monday? …well, I promised to bring some new info about dwarfism to the site every now and again, and I wanted to give ALL parents some interesting news: according to a study shared by Parents magazine, kids who play on a tablet before surgery have an easier time being sedated without prior medication than those who do not. For children with achondroplasia, sedation is even less safe than for typical children (or adults, for that matter), which makes me wary of any extra medication that may be pushed our way.
The “juice” that Addie is given to calm her before she is sedated is off-putting for me. Reading that there was a study that showed using a tablet to distract and relax, and was a great way to calm kids was fascinating. Definitely something I am keeping in my pocket for our next sedation… and I wanted to pass the tip onto you! Less medication is a good thing, right?!
FarFaria gives the girls access to new stories, classic fairy tales, songs and gives me peace of mind to shower(!), or work. It can provide solo activity time for Addie, which is valuable… but to have some peace before sedation is an invaluable gift from technology. I wanted to limit screen-time, and Dave and I have done a great job of that, but having parental backup is a crutch I am not ashamed to admit I use!
I purchased FarFaria’s lifetime subscription from the Google Play Store from my phone, and it links to everything I have associated with that email (which is currently just my tablet)! The app runs just fine on 4G and WiFi, so if you have a tablet that can only use WiFi (like me), your child can still access all the content (a lifesaver at the doctor’s office)!
So… venturing into new apps for toddlers… what’s your ONE favorite app? Please share (nothing Sponge Bob or Caillou). Thank you for sharing with me! I hope you have a beautiful week… and never have the need to take my pre-sedation relaxation advice- ever!
lots of love,
I think this sounds like an awesome app & I love that she loves it so much 🙂 Sounds totally worth downloading.
It’s awesome!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
Happy Monday! Looks like the kids are having a lot of fun with those apps!
Brittany recently posted…5 Ways to Pamper Yourself as A Mom
Indeed!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
Sounds like a great app – thank you for your review!
swell conditions recently posted…world water day
Hope you like it!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
I am always looking for new apps for my preschooler that make learning fun. This looks like a good one and I’m definitely going to check it out with him!
Jeannette recently posted…How to Keep Spring Bubbly & a Sparkling Blackberry Frappe Recipe
My nieces will love this one, too! They are both in preschool, so they are the perfect age.
YES! That’s a great age for Far Faria!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
I think parental controls are awesome and in no way a crutch. They’re an awesome tool for helping to make sure the rules you set in place STAY in place.
Jennifer recently posted…How to Craft More Efficiently with Cricut Explore
So true!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
So many great (and educational) apps for toddlers. I sometimes wish my girls were just a bit younger so they could have benefited from today’s technology.
Scott recently posted…10 Must-Do Things at Disney’s Yacht Club
I wish I was younger for the same reason! What amazing new things out there!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
I don’t have a toddler anymore but, she had her favorites. Hope you had a great weekend!
Thanks, you too!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
Sounds like a cute app. Hope the cold goes away!
Stefani Tolson recently posted…My New iRobot Roomba 870 That Loves To Clean My Floors #iRobotatBestBuy
TY!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
This looks like a really cute app. I think my daughter would love it.
Elizabeth @ Being MVP recently posted…How to Create a Quick and Easy Floral Centerpiece + a Fun Mocktail :: Blackberry Sage Cooler + #Giveaway #KeepSpringBubbly #ad
Try it out! I hope she does!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
Wow, that’s an interesting study for sure, especially since they say ‘screen time’ makes it harder for people to adjust to sleeping, so that’s great that it works to relax better for sedation! My sister’s little ones really like the Sea World apps, lots to do in those and educational as well.
Tammy recently posted…Coca-Cola Black Forest Brownies & DIY Basketball Coasters Tutorial
I thought so, too! I think it’s the distraction that’s key, though!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
I really like how just this one app offers so many different aspects. It sounds like a great fit for my 5 year old. Sometimes we just need some down time and I think she’d be adept at working this all on her own.
Jessica Harlow recently posted…Be ready for summer sun with a new pair of shades from GlassesShop.com!
I think even my 7 year old would enjoy it!
Stefani Tolson recently posted…Free Printable Cinderella Matching Game
Exactly! I love that the age range is so vast, too!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
This app not only sounds entertaining, but educational as well. Good to know that there are apps out there to help give parents peace of mind.
Jenny Temcio recently posted…Pulsaderm Sonic Face Brush Skin Cleansing Tool
Right?!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
Your kids. They’re just too cute! I think parental controls are the greatest. If my son was a little one again, I’d totally use them.
Dawn recently posted…Florida Fresh Tomato & Chives Breakfast Pitas
🙂
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
We’ve had that warm/cold weather going on too. In fact yesterday we were in shorts and today it’s lightly snowing. -_- My favorite app is not educational, it is fun though (Crossy Road). Don’t tell the kids… 😉
Rosey recently posted…Bringin’ in Spring with FabKids
Looking that one up!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
I can see my two year old son enjoying this too! He is getting into sitting still while watching movies so maybe he’d be the same with an app or game.
I bet he would love it!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
I’m going to have to check out this app. It sounds just like something my son needs. I love having educational apps for him and this fits right up that alley.
Yes! Which apps do you use?
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
This is just great. My kids love reading and this is so much easier than bringing books with us when out and about. Thanks for the idea.
I totally agree!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
I love apps like this, especially for my youngest who is still home with me during the day while I can get a little work done. Going to grab this one for him tomorrow, he will be so excited.
Jenn recently posted…Giving Assistant – Give Back When Shopping Online
The perfect tool to help you get some work done!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
This looks great – perfect for our little guys!!
Enjoy!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
That sounds like a great app. Your daughter looks like she is enjoying it!
Mama to 5 BLessings recently posted…Amazing African Experience #WDWBigFun
She loves it!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
What awesome reading choices. This sounds fantastic.
Debbie Denny recently posted…THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY – PART 2 ‘Remember’ and Teaser Posterâ€! #MockingjayPart2
So many great stories!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
This is such interesting information. I will have to share this with my friends that have kids. I would much rather use a tablet to calm my child then medicine.
Me too!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
Oh, I’m going to have to look into that app! My toddler loves to play on the phone or tablet. I try to limit it, but really, sometimes I just need him distracted so I can do a few things without him throwing toys at my face 😉
Trish recently posted…Overnight Chocolate Chip Oat Muffins
EXACTLY!!!!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
My youngest sign quite 2 so he sis t ready for any apps yet but I’m curious about abc mouse app. I hope you guys feel better!
Maggie recently posted…Meal-Planning Monday
Thank you!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
I have a two year old nephew who already knows how to used the iPhone. He even Facetimes with us on his own (smiles). This would be a wonderful app for him.
Katy Rawson recently posted…Simple Sugar Muffins
That’s so cute! I bet he would love this!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
Ohhhhh my daughter is almost old enough for this!
It’s great for so many ages!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
She seems to really be enjoying the app, and I like that it reads the stories aloud. Even better, I like that it may really help before sedation in her future procedures!
Liz Mays recently posted…Universal CityWalk Orlando – Orlando’s Entertainment Destination
I love it for those reasons too! It’s awesome to have her read to and see the words- so cool to hear her read along, as well!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
I love how this app can help develop reading skills. I would definitely use this for my kids.
Liz Mays recently posted…Universal CityWalk Orlando – Orlando’s Entertainment Destination
🙂
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
What a cute app. I love when they combine fun and learning into one app that kids love. Makes me not feel as bad to let my kids play on the tablet.
Aubrey recently posted…5 Ways to Sneak in Veggies + Giveaway
I totally agree!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
That looks like such a fun app!
M from K&M: The Stay-at-Home Life recently posted…M’s Three New Dinners Challenge
It is!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
I have to check out this app! My girls often use their tablets for learning games when we are on the go.
Elaina recently posted…We Use GoodNites So We Can Have Good Mornings #WalmartTRUFIT #IC #Ad
Do you have a favorite?
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
I agree the less medication the better. She’s so cute!
Crystal recently posted…Green Your Earth Giveaway
YES! And thank you!! 🙂
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
I’m so happy you found a useful, educational and entertaining app that also helps Addie relax! Sounds like a win-win!
Mary Larsen recently posted…April Showers Bring May Flowers Fun Snack
Amen!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
My son is almost 2 and he already knows the ins and outs of my phone and tablet! Thanks for sharing these apps, i’m sure my son will love them too!
Katriza recently posted…Rock N Learn Books & DVD Giveaway Ends 3/30
I I know he will!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
This sounds like an awesome app and something I would like to download for my daughter. I was browsing their book catalog and I’m really impressed with all they have to offer!
Trisha recently posted…Comment on Cleaner floors with the iRobot Roomba 870! #iRobotatBestBuy @iRobot @BestBuy by Elaina
Totally awesome reads! I love their take on the classics, too!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
What a great app! I’ll have to look into it for my little ones!
lisa recently posted…10 Ways To Make Your Business Cards Stand Out
I hope they love it!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
I love reading with my girls. So much fun!!! The earlier we start i think the better they do.
I totally agree!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
I think it’s a terrific idea for an app that can keep kids entertained. I love the extra mile it goes to keep little ones occupied.
Yes!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*
The apps that I let my child use are puzzles. She likes those. By the way, I like the ones you have now, too.
Mhar Sefcik recently posted…Celebrating The Graduates
I’ll have to look into puzzle apps!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…5 Days of Spring Break with Kids in Daytona Beach, FL *guest post*