$30-$50
We’ve owned a variety of these flip-out sofas over the years and each has come in handy.  They are sturdy, generally have washable covers, and are the perfect size for a child 6 and under to use.  They are easily moved and although not too tiny, could easily be thrown in the back of a minivan for an overnighter.

The best use is for a sick child or restless child who needs rest but getting them to sit still in a bed or bedroom is next to impossible.  Just throw one of these flip-out couches in front of the T.V., in a room where you can monitor the child, or even just where the activity is.

We’ve even doubled them up on occasion (end to end) for an older child to sleep in or play video games in.

I don’t know whether to be concerned, or amazed at this movie. An adoption agency turns over three children to an evil person, without doing much checking. I’m not sure whether to laugh or cry at how nearly accurate that is at times. Beyond that, the evil genius has a heart and turns out to be a good guy? So is this really a good guy all along and pretending to be bad, or now a bad guy pretending to be good. Either way, I’m not sure it’s a good idea for children to trust someone such as this.

I suppose those things aside the movie really is relatively benign. We all want to hope for less evil and more good in the world and on that note it has merit.

The minions are hysterical. Pulling antics from photocopying their rears to lots of playful teasing with the other minions. They really are what make this movie entertaining and without them, the movie would fall flat.

Although I think the humor is relatively harmless, if you are incredibly strict about content and don’t allow fart jokes or other such silliness, this movie isn’t for you. It’s more geared towards the 6 and up crowd, but younger kids might enjoy parts of it too.

Cost $50-$60
This is a cute game, specifically for the Nintendo Wii.   It’s rated E, and although cute, it reminded me a lot of Sony’s Little Big Planet but not nearly as good.   It’s great for younger kids who don’t have as much experience playing video games but won’t keep older kids entertained for long and is easy enough to complete.

That being said, there are some really fun characters and changes Kirby goes through.  From turning into a fish, to changing into a space craft complete with bursts to destroy enemies.  It’s definitely a good reminder of how limitless the imagination could be.