“The Good Dinosaur” FREE Printables #TheGoodDinosaur

The Walt Disney Studios and Disney Citizenship, in collaboration with XPRIZE, announced the winners of the DISNEY CREATE TOMORROWLAND & XPRIZE CHALLENGE. Kids between the ages of 8 and 17 were asked to imagine themselves in the future and report back about one new technology that is positively affecting humanity.
A panel of XPRIZE judges reviewed submissions and selected six winners, three from the Junior Division (8-12 years old) and three from the Senior Division (13-17 years old). Challenge submissions were scored based on originality, creativity and presentation. The winners and their ideas are as follows:
Gabrielle Nafie, age 9, of New York, New York, envisioned a robotic origami bee called a bee origamibot. These tiny robots are activated by sunlight, function like real bees by pollinating plants vital to our survival and offset the global decline of the actual insect.
Maxwell Fung, age 11, of North Syracuse, New York, imagined a world with no pain thanks to the invention of the pain-blocking nanobot. These teeny metal bots are administered orally prior to surgery to inhibit nerve endings from transferring chemicals that induce pain. The nanobots are removed through the kidneys, result in little to no side effects and are non-addictive.
Jason Jackrel, age 12, of North Bellmore, New York, invented the hydrogen-powered scooter, the preferred transportation of the future. By utilizing hydrogen, which emits water, instead of fossil fuels, the hydrogen-powered scooter eliminates C02 emissions.
Clarissa Katko, age 15, of Dansville, Michigan, developed a cure for cancer through genetic therapy. By harnessing the genetic makeup of mole rats, whose genes have a high resistance to runway cell growth, humanity will be able to eradicate cancer and extend life expectancy.
Adrianne Camero, age 15, of Miami, Florida, devised the Magnēs Lithos Chair, a more efficient and adaptable alternative to the wheelchair. The Magnēs Lithos Chair utilizes the Earth’s electromagnetic field to levitate and is maneuvered by the user’s mind.
Natalie Cummings, age 16, of Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, tapped into the science of Mother Nature to create artificial trees with leaves that cleanse the air of C02 atexponential rates while also capturing solar energy to power neighboring homes.
“We are thrilled to be able to recognize the talents and imagination of these extraordinary young people,” said Sean Bailey, President, Walt Disney Studios Motion Picture Production. “The submissions showed an incredible and imaginative vision of the future, and through them, they have brought to life the same spirit and optimism that inspired us to make the film ‘Tomorrowland.’”
“The inventiveness and dexterity showcased in the submissions we received solidify that innovation can originate from anyone if given the opportunity,” said Trish Halamandaris, senior vice president marketing & communications at XPRIZE. “The Create Tomorrowland XPRIZE Challenge tasked young innovators to imagine the future and the outcome was a bright, healthy and creative tomorrow.”
Beginning in June, the six winners will have a once–in-a-lifetime mentorship experience with a leader in their area of interest. In addition, each winner will receive a $3,000 check, a 3D Printer from 3D Systems, an annual subscription to Tales2Go® and registration for FIRST® LEGO® League for the competition season 2015-2016 in the U.S.
Supporting XPRIZE Partners include FIRST® (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), 3D Systems, IMAX Corporation, Tales2Go® and the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
To view the winning submissions, please visit http://www.xprizechallenge.org

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If you’re like our house, you’ve fallen in love with the next generation of the Lion King saga….The Lion Guard: Return of the Roar on the Disney Channel. Disney’s Lion Guard comes out on DVD Today, Tuesday, February 23rd, and to celebrate we have some fun downloadable activity sheets & video clips to share with you courtesy of Disney!
The Lion Guard: Return Of The Roar – Kion’s First Roar
Beau Black Music Video “Here Comes the Lion Guard”
Stay tuned for a Digital Code Giveaway!!

I’m your pretty typical SAHM…I keep it simple when it comes to hair, makeup and attire…but every once and a while I like to dress nice, fix my hair and do my full makeup routine. My hair is pretty wavy and THICK! It’s easy to straighten, but when it comes to curling it, my hair tends to fall flat..or well..stay wavy & frizzy, so most of the time you will catch me with my hair up in a bun or pony tail.
I was able to try out the Kiss InstaWave, and I have to admit I was a little afraid to try it..its nothing like what I’m used to using. KISS InstaWave is a fully automatic tangle-free curler that instantly creates beautiful curls. The first thing you will notice is the curling rod with 5 prongs on the bottom making it look more like a torture device rather then a hair tool. It has two settings low & high and a button to spin the curling rod right or left.
After about 10 minutes I was ready to rock my curls!
You can create loose to tight curls depending on how long you leave your hair wrapped on the curling rod. Another thing that is great about the InstaWave is that if you are forgetful or, maybe get distracted like so many of us moms do the InstaWave automatically shuts off after 90 minutes…I absolutely love the InstaWave! I can’t wait to create my holiday looks with it.
How to Curl:
Hold InstaWave vertically
Simply place section of hair on the InstaWave curling rod
Touch the Curl Dial either left or right, and the InstaWave instantly and automatically catches and curls the hair
Hold for 5-10 seconds, hold longer for tighter curls and less for beachy waves
Pull the InstaWave down vertically, letting hair out
**Tip: Switch between curling right and curling left to create the most natural looking curls
Features:
Fully automatic, tangle-free curler
Innovative design lets you curl from any position using either hand
Curl Dial makes it simple to switch between left and right curl directions
Ceramic Ionic Technology protects hair for healthy, shiny results
Two heat settings with maximum temperature of 420° F
Auto shutoff after 90 minutes for added safety
Buy It
Target | Amazon | Ulta
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Parents magazine today revealed the Top 10 Best Hotel Chains For Families, perfect for family road trips, holiday travels or weekend getaways. Parents’ magazine editors and travel experts evaluated 60-plus hotel brands across the country to identify chains offering families great space and comfort, high satisfaction ratings, affordable rates, and entertaining kids’ programs. The full article is available in the November 2015 issue of the magazine and on Parents.com.
According to Parents, the year’s best hotel chains for families include:
Best Budget Chains
Residence Inn – With 650+ U.S. locations, the hotel offers extensive in-room amenities and a seasonal “Residence Inn Mix” program, featuring food-truck fare, restaurant pop-in tastings, and a backyard BBQ, depending on the night and location. (Fall rates for a Studio Suite start at $84 per night; residenceinn.marriott.com).
Hyatt Place – Perfect for keeping kids healthy on vacation, these properties offer a free breakfast buffet which has expanded in most locations to include more nutritious options, many packed with fruit, veggies, and protein. (Fall rates for a room with two queen beds start at $134 per night; hyattplace.com).
SpringHill Suites – Known for its roomy living areas and creative breakfast options, the chain’s special touch lies in a showcase of more than 2,000 pieces of artwork displayed throughout its lobbies. (Fall rates for a suite with two double beds start at $79 per night; marriott.com/springhillsuites).
Hilton Garden Inn – The hotel’s redesigned rooms are more family-friendly than ever, providing more counter space, clothes storage, charging stations, and seating. Hate waiting in line? Use the HHonors app to check-in and choose your room from your smartphone – you may decide on a room near the indoor pool, for instance – then swing by the front desk for the key. (Fall rates for a room with two queen beds start at $129 per night;hiltongardeninn.com).
Wingate by Wyndham – With starting rates of less than $100 per night (and free breakfast!) in many areas, you can’t beat the price of a standard room here. The brand also has a unique loyalty program that allows you to redeem some of your points for discounts on your stay. (Fall rates for a room with two double beds start at $129 per night;wingateatlanta.com).
Best Mid-Priced Chains
Embassy Suites Hotel by Hilton – Every room is a suite here, so forget about splurging on an upgrade for more space and privacy. Additional perks include a free nightly snack and drink reception, training for all staff on interacting with kids, and a new program offering baby care essentials at some locations. (Fall rates for a suite with two double beds start at $189 per night; embassysuites.com).
Loews Hotels & Resorts – From receiving early admission to Orlando theme parks so they can beat the crowds to attending “Farm School” at an organic farm to care for local animals and vegetables in San Diego, families take advantage of the coolest partnerships to keep the kids happy. (Fall rates for a room with two double beds start at $249 per night; loewshotels.com).
Omni Hotels & Resorts – Omni has a knack for taking old, historic resorts and restoring them into family meccas with plenty of adventure. Kids will have tons of fun with the free photo book and game-filled backpack they receive at check in. (Fall rates for rooms with two double beds start at $229 per night; omnihotels.com).
Hyatt House – Many locations offer two-bedroom, two-bathroom suites for what you’d pay for a single room at a higher-end chain. Plus, all room types come with a full kitchen and all the tools you need to cook and eat a great meal. (Fall rates for a one-bedroom suite start at $159 per night; hyatthouse.com).
Sheraton Hotels & Resorts – Sheraton offers the same features as its pricier Starwood cousins, Westin and Aloft, like “sweet sleeper” beds and cribs, pools, and an all-inclusive dining program for kids 12 and under. (Fall rates for suites start at $249 per night and a room with two double beds at $189 per night; starwoodhotels.com/sheraton).

It’s finally here!! Marvel Studios presents “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” the epic follow-up to the biggest Super Hero movie of all time.
When Tony Stark tries to jumpstart a dormant peacekeeping program, things go awry and Earth’s Mightiest Heroes, including Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, The Incredible Hulk, Black Widow and Hawkeye, are put to the ultimate test as the fate of the planet hangs in the balance. As the villainous Ultron emerges, it is up to The Avengers to stop him from enacting his terrible plans, and soon uneasy alliances and unexpected action pave the way for an epic and unique global adventure.
Marvel’s “Avengers: Age of Ultron” stars Robert Downey Jr., who returns as Iron Man, along with Chris Hemsworth as Thor, Mark Ruffalo as Hulk and Chris Evans as Captain America. Together with Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow and Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye, and with the additional support of Don Cheadle as James Rhodes/War Machine, Cobie Smulders as Agent Maria Hill, Stellan Skarsgård as Erik Selvig and Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury, the team must reassemble to defeat James Spader as Ultron, a terrifying technological villain hell-bent on human extinction. Along the way, they confront two mysterious and powerful newcomers, Pietro Maximoff, played by Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and Wanda Maximoff, played by Elizabeth Olsen and meet an old friend in a new form when Paul Bettany becomes Vision.
As if that isn’t enough excitement..Robert Downey Jr. has made a BIG announcement. It is a chance to go to the world premiere of Marvel’s Avengers: Age of Ultron and to indulge in lots of fan activities. To enter, all you have to do is donate $10 at Omaze.com/RDJ, which benefits Julia’s House, a children’s hospice charity in England.
You and a friend will be joining Robert Downey Jr. for the best day of your lives at the premiere of Marvel’s Avengers: Age of Ultron. You will experience indoor skydiving, a helicopter ride over the Hollywood sign, a custom tux/gown fitting, a pit stop at Randy’s Donuts and caviar tasting with RDJ before riding in his private motorcade to the premiere. Flights, 4-star hotel, and transportation are all included. Best of all, every entry benefits Julia’s House.
Enter to win and support Julia’s House children’s hospice: http://bit.ly/Downey-Omaze
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Marvel’s AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON will hit theaters everywhere on May 1st!

If your into the Marvel comics, and movies…I think you’ll enjoy this brand new game from Hasbro!! This new game is called BONKAZONKS. BONKAZONKS is a collectable, free-form stunt-battling game from Hasbro! BONKAZONKS stunt toys feature a new stylized graphic art style of your favorite MARVEL super heroes. BONKAZONKS also feature stunt cards and an online code to unlock more fun at BONKAZONKS.COM! BONKAZONKS is truly a dual-play experience, play and collect at home…AND online! Play the online stunt game and flick, stack, spin and attack your way to victory! The BONKAZONKS Marvel tops consist of 2 packs, 4 packs, Face Case, Stunt Sets and Head Quarters.
Each BONKAZONKS FACE CASE’s include Spiderman as seen above, Captain America, Iron Man & Wolverine! Each one comes with four BONKAZONKS figures exclusive to the FACE CASE character — plus a stunt card with an online code to unlock more fun at BONKAZONKS.com! Each FACE CASE also comes with display tray to show off your BONKAZONKS collection! Hasbro has manufactured 100 different Marvel characters for these toys, including well-known characters like Spiderman and Iron Man , a variety of foes as well as some lesser-known characters. It seems like Bonka Zonks are especially ideal for anyone who likes to trade, and collect. Your characters have different skills or stunts that you can use to win.
4 pack
Description From Site:
Explode into action with these spinning, smashing whirlwind warriors! This 4-pack of exclusive BONKAZONKS MARVEL spinners includes LIZARD, VENOM, SANDMAN and SPIDER-MAN figures with gear for major BONKAZONKS combat. Spin them! Flick them! Stack them! Attack them! Learn a new BONKAZONKS trick from the included stunt card and use it in a free-for-all battle on the included battle mat! Store 10 or more BONKAZONKS accessories in the SPIDER-MAN-themed FACE CASE (other accessories sold separately). Your BONKAZONKS fighters are on your team and they play your game, so add them to your “army” and take on your opponents in the spinning frenzy! It’s time to get dizzy with it!
What We Thought:
While I was terribly confused on what to do, the kids jumped right in making up there own smash’em crash’em games…I joined in of course, who wouldn’t…I made 50pts in my first shot – dead center! Of course, i had other things to tend to, but they continued to play though out the day, making up new games, and seeing who the better hero was! All in all I think it’s a great game that the kids would enjoy all summer long, and the grown up kids would enjoy collecting the fun collectible characters! Our kids love anything super hero so this is a great addition to the kids’ toys, plus it’s not too pricey starting at approximately $9.99!
You can find Hasbro BONKAZONKS On:
BONKAZONKS can be purchased on Hasbro’s site as well as at Toys R Us, Walmart, Target as well as a number of other retailers. Approximate Retail Price: $9.99; Ages: 5 & Up; Available: Spring 2012 One lucky winner will receive a copy of BONKAZONKS FACE CASE!! This giveaway is open to residents in US; 18+. Winner will have 48 hours to confirm before a forfeit is assumed. Giveaway runs June 2, 2012 @ 12:01AM – June 13, 2012 @ 11:59PM (EST).
Disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above free of charge for review purposes only. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. Hasbro has not influenced the editorial nature of this post, and No other compensation was received. Please see our disclosure policy for more information.
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