Top 8: Kid Websites

Posted on September 2, 2009 by *Geekette*

As a geeky mommy, my daughter has safely been playing on the computer since she was two. She has great fine-motor skills, able to open Windows, and typing her name. (I even taught her select all because she wanted to delete quickly.)

She also spends a lot of time (healthy amounts of time, of course) play on different online games. She was an excellent critic as I was refining this list…as there were several sites we’re not mentioning for a reason. These sites were fun, educational, and most important easy for her to use. She had no problems navigating around the site and finding activities she was interested in doing. They were challenging and age appropriate. Some of the sites below are also for kids through middle school. Take advantage of all the free websites out there for our children.

1. National Geographic for Kids – “A Parents’ Choice Recommended Winner” in 2008, this site has games, videos, interactive activities, printable suggestions and crafts.

My Page – personalize your child’s page, easily find favorite activities,
Get the full list of activities here. (It goes on for FOREVER!)

2. PBS KIds - One of my daughter’s favorite sites, these site has tons of resources for parents and resources. (Almost all these sites have resources for parents too.)

Games – games that corresponds with all the kid’s favorites.
Music – get up and dance with your child!
Coloring – print out the pages and take them with you in the car to entertain them on errands.
PBS Go! – watch different clips from shows, shows not shown on TV and also create an account and save scores as your child plays!

3. Nick –The main Nickelodeon site, not only does it link you to the other sites it provides games, videos, events, deals, and tons of other activities!

Sign up for the newsletter.
Games – all the regular Nickelodeon shows for the slightly older aged crowd.
Neopets – Quickly create an account for your child and let them pick a Neopet to play, choosing colors, names, and powers. An online, reality village for kids. The pre-WoW game, earn points, buy things for your pet. Feed and dress your Neopet too. 18 different lands for your child to explore!

Nick Jr. – There are tons of games and activities that can be played WITHOUT playing. Shows are targeted from young preschool through 6 year olds. Another Nick site for preschool shows, Noggin offers even more games and activities.

Sign up for the newsletter.
Videos unseen on TV.

4. Kids.gov – Two different age groups (K-5 and 6-8), the website includes government links and external sites.

Sections include: Arts, Careers, Computer and Technology, Fun Stuff, Government, Health/Fitness/Safety, Math, Money, Science, Social Studies, and State websites
Check out everything here.

5. Disney – Tons of different activities, printables, games, videos, and clips from preschool through tween shows. Find out information about visiting Disney, upcoming local events,

Text MOBILE to DISNEY (347639) to get new text alerts and other alerts from Disney.
My Page – personalize your child’s page so they see the same activities each time.

6. Discovery Kids – Fun and games, videos to watch, upcoming TV shows, and regularly syndicated shows.

Ready, Set, Learn – A lot of activities younger kids, games include Magic School Bus and other popular shows.
Educational activities, learn about mummies, and other age appropriate, scientific activities!
Beyond – Education videos that will take your child all over the world.
Games – games for younger and older kids, everything from the mindless to the mindful. Lots of challenging quizzes.

7. Character Sites – Through the years my daughters tastes in shows has matures from Thomas the Train to Olivia the Pig. A lot of times shows will have games and printables on the TV website it’s currently playing on…but the author/creator will often have their own website as well. Don’t just stop at the normal channels, make use of Google and make sure you’ve found all the time consuming activities available.

8. Scholastic Kids – Offers spotlights on different authors for school aged kids.

Videos with clips of special events, meet the authors/celebrities, and information on your favorite series.
Their blog includes random book recommendations, unknown facts, and contests.
Games include online, puzzle, and downloadable games.
You can also send out cute e-cards.
Play different writing games.
Choose your own adventures fun for you AND your child

I didn’t go into a lot of detail of any of these sites. I wanted to point out a couple unknown sites and if they were already popular I hoped to point activities that have been well broadcasted yet.

Please help your children explore these sites safely and enjoy the time you’re given back while they’re lost in the other kind of online entertainment.

No wheelin’ & dealin’ at Discount Tires!

Posted on August 8, 2009 by *Geekette*

I have a few mantras in life and they all include saving time and money. As I’ve gained experience through the years, one of the best ways to do this is not only by taking the time to find coupons and specials…but through preventive measures.

Let me give you the perfect example. Tire maintenance. I can spend outrageous amounts of money buying all 4 tires at once (as I did today) OR I can go to Discount Tire and take advantage of their FREE to EVERYONE air pressure and tire check drive ins.

As I sat there for a little under an hour, I saw elderly ladies, tattooed motorcyclists, soccer moms, and a 360, pull up, get out and grab a free water. Literally by the time they sat down, took a sip, and opened a magazine, their name was being called as I wistfully watched on. Although not everything can be prevented…a lot can. Take the time to let them check your tires and air pressure; it makes their job easier when you come in a rush, expecting them to see instant results.

Let me tell you, the Discount Tire I went to, off Bandera and 1604 treated me, potentially the perfect sitting duck, incredibly well. I came in armed with my tire size and the brand I was looking at (based on online reviews) prepared to face the judgment of my poor tire maintenance. They didn’t judge, they said not to list to the website, just call – there are often appointments available. They even drew pictures so I could understand the difference between steel and alloy rims. They scheduled me for a time and when I came, they drove my car in immediately.

I watched many disgruntled customers come in, disgusted to find their cars ready without being alerts on their cell phone. I watched and their cars were ready just as they got there. There are a lot of younger mechanics working as quickly as they can, there was no admin, manning the front. They all efficiently took turns. I was just so impressed with this well oiled machine. They kept their sense of humor and just brought a lot of light to the room.

Be patient, they are trying and they want to make it as easy as possible for you.

They broke the bad and worse news to me gently – I’d need 4 new wheels and 4 new tires. (NOTE: wheels <=> rims are used interchangeably.) They showed me why, they showed me what to pick and why, and they did it without making me feel miserable.

Find the nearest store to you! And go in armed with current promotions. Don’t forget to subscribe to their mailing list with specials. Become a Fan on Facebook and follow on Twitter, I am!

When I go back in 50 miles (just so they can make sure everything is working out as designed) I will bring not only a smile but cookies and other baked goods. Also, they’ll sign you up for email reminders, whenever you need to come in for your FREE rotations…

University Bowl 101…

Posted on July 29, 2009 by *Geekette*

At University Bowl, take advantage of the free student bowling program. Students bowl their first game free, Monday through Friday, 9am-12pm. Make sure you print out the consent form first. Shoes are required but available for a discounted rate – $2.25 per pass holder.

Also make sure you join them on Aug. 5^th for Customer Appreciation Day! From 5pm-7pm, bowl for FREE! First come, first served, limit to 2 games per person! Shoe rentals for only $1.79!

Want to hear about all the specials in the future? Become a fan on FB and join their mailing lists.

If you give a mouse a cookie…

Posted on July 22, 2009 by *Geekette*

The Magik Theater located in downtown San Antonio only produces plays based on children books. I know they visited my daughter’s public elementary school to preform “School House Rock” and they also visited her private summer school program to give another theatrical performance.

Seating 600 parents and children, the list of performances are rich and fun. They recently announced the return of the production, “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie”, which we were wait listed for when we waltzed up, expecting to get a ticket to the show on a beautiful Sunday afternoon. They did find us a seat but suggested in the future either purchasing the tickets online or coming on a slower day (weekday or night). Times normally range from Mon/Tue-Friday from 9:45 and 11:30, with additional showings on Friday at 7pm and Saturday at 2pm. Plenty of options for everyone.

Up-coming shows include “The Kid who Ran for President” and “The Nutcracker: A Holiday Comedy.” After the show, kids have a chance to buy souvenirs and get their programs signed by the enthusiastic cast members. We normally buy the shirt from the show to support the theater and then ask the cast members to sign it. (They’ve always had sharpie markers – bring a camera though, GREAT Kodak moment.)

They also have a small snack bar and you can eat during the performance. There’s a balcony but don’t sit up there if your kid is the kind to want to jump…

Especially if you’re looking for a place to entertain the kiddos, out of the heat, head to the Magik Theater while its showing from July 29 – August 15!

There’s also a very nice park, right outside the theater, covered with a lot of trees. It has swings, slides, and many forts, a very clean, large, and comfortable downtown playground and picnic area.

Follow on FB and Twitter to get the most up to date news, their mailing list also includes summer camp information! Look for the “Buy one, get one FREE” coupon in your Entertainment book (buy 2009′s for ONLY $7.99, normally $25!!!), every school’s favorite fundraiser!

***Final note: Is your child’s birthday coming up and you’ve already done the Chuck E. Cheese thing? Create a magical time and bring the party to the theater! With 3 options, your child will enjoy the play with their friends and have everything set up with the supplies you bring when the show concludes. Pay a little extra and even get costumed cast mates to make cameos!

8 reasons to follow Geekette Bits…

Posted on July 21, 2009 by *Geekette*

Taking advantage of all the social media opportunities, I have tried to reach out to possible readers through multiple channels. Something incredibly important to me and the goal of my entire blog – make your life easier…by saving you time and money!

Everything I do on my blog should do just that and here’s 8 ways I tried to take advantage of Web 2.0:

Follow me on Twitter! @geekettebits
Not only will you be alerted of new posts – you’ll also see them conveniently with everyone else status updates!
Friend me on Facebook! http://www.facebook.com/geekettebits
Once you add me on FB and Twitter, check out who I am following. Businesses local to San Antonio, websites that offer GREAT deals, get the scoop before I do! Or if you don’t want the extra noise, check out my profile to see the alerts without having to add anyone!
iGoogle Gadget – have a personalized Google homepage? Add the Geekette Bits Google gadget there! See quick summaries of the most recent posts!
iPhone – my site is mobile friendly! Got an iPhone? Doesn’t have to be 3G but it’s very iPhone friendly! Bookmark me!
RSS Feed – don’t want to mess with those other tools? Just subscribe to RSS feeds directly!!
Leave Comments - sign up for my site through Google Friend Connect to leave comments, good and bad on my posts. Let me know what you really would’ve like information on OR what you’d like to see next time!
Google Maps - I have 3 right now…whenever I post about something I try to also include it in one of 3 maps:
- Lil’ Bits – take a quick glance on a Saturday morning to see what’s free and close…or look to see a map view of kid friendly places!
- Geekette HotSpots – just places I think are worth checking out!
- Great Bytes – places I’ve reviewed or want to check out or will eventually blog about!
- Links can be found at anytime on the right hand column of my blog “Bitmaps”.

Geekette’s Top 8 Mailing Lists to Join…

Posted on May 9, 2009 by *Geekette*

DISCLAIMER: I strongly recommend separating your mailing list emails or setting up good filters (either through your e-mail or Outlook.) They all go to my personal email account but filter into various categories, quickly looking at each – kid offers, home and garden, food, travel, etc.

Companies LOVE mailing lists and member accounts for the following:

Save $$$ - it doesn’t cost as much to send out an e-mail as it does to send out paper notifications of specials, etc.
Instant, Clear, and Searchable – online specials are often much better then those found in the mailbox or newspaper

Not everyone is web savvy so they can afford to make awesome offers available to those who take advantage.

*Look back for a post about finding savings in the daily newspaper…

Why I love mailing lists:

Sign-up Incentives (one time offers for joining a site – often the best offer/discounts you’ll see)
Birthday Presents (on your birthday look in your inbox and mailbox for great offers – they want you to spend your birthday money, dinner, etc with them.)
Offers/Discounts not for the Masses (Instead of getting what everyone gets, receive something a little more personalized AND special.)

This list is based on just the facts, I probably have subscribed (and sometimes un-subscribed) from 100-200 different websites for any retail service you can think of.

*In no particular order – I picked my favorite in 8 different categories…

Top 8 Mailing Lists to Join

KOHLS.com – Not only do you get $5 off in-store and 10% off online, Kohls sends out notifications every couple of days with offers of free shipping and great sales. (Word from the wise – create an account and save your shopping cart…it will time out and you’ll lose everything in your you’ve potentially purchased.)
Chuck E. Cheese’s – You want your kid to be a kid…and the cheaper, the more inclined you’ll be to tolerate the loud noises and obnoxious parents. (Did I say obnoxious? I meant assertive and strong…) The best part is the payout at sign up time – you pay for 40 tokens ($10) get 60 tokens, FREE! You get a set of 4 with each coupon alert eventually the ratio reverses to pay for 60 tokens ($15) get 40 free…still a great deal.) (Check back for my post on tips and tricks for playing the games – timing is everything if you want to be the mom (dad/uncle/friend/etc) who walks up everytime with at least a thousand tickets.)They’ll also e-mail chore charts, doctor visits, and other certificates worth 10 tokens (FREE) upon completion.
VistaPrint – If I could only keep one mail subscription, it might just be VistaPrint. Although you are frequently are e-mailed offers, the offers are incredible! A printing website with quick turnaround a good quality – the offers are great to use at different times of the year. My daughter and I made fridge magnets with her in red by the tree for Christmas, and included a poem she wrote on the site. Priceless. Literally! Pay special attention of offers with free or discounted uploads (template and pictures included - a majority of the bill can add up when adding pictures to cards or calendars.) This website doesn’t just print business cards, print post cards, mousepads, key chains, stamps, car magnets, calendars, hats, and more! With each e-mail offer select up to 10 FREE products to personalize or design from scratch, only paying for shipping at the end.
RetailMeNot.com – The easiest way to find online coupon codes. I do not make a purchase online without first googling promotional code (or whatever is requested upon checkout.) I’ve saved incredible amounts of money with discounts or FREE shipping.
Borders Perks – I’m not sure where this gem was hiding and who knew that Borders Bookstore had such an extensive, inclusive listing of incredible deals. Sent in a weekly message, rewards include discounts for not only their own bookstore but a plethora of others as well. Anything and everything is included in this extensive site listing but top offers are emailed every couple of days, based on preferences.
2-Way Tie for Best Picture:
Walgreens & Shutterfly – Both regularly e-mail great discounts and promotional codes just in time for the holidays or birthdays. New members receive free prints – I normally hold out for coupons for $.10 or less…they also offer discounts on photo products (mousepads, scrapbooks) and include updates to new functionality AND services.
Ticketmaster, Broadway Across America, & NBA.com are all worth mentioned when purchasing tickets to entertaining events. Ticketmaster and Broadway Across America both send clean, easy to read emails, on a weekly basis, about local events based on my preferences. It’s a great reminder and they often include special codes for buying in advanced!
NBA.com is worth mentioned because not only can you get INCREDIBLE discounts in alert e-mails, you’re also e-mailed about other promotional events by the players and discounts to hotels and travelling. Get great seats to the next Spurs game!
Overstock.com – Sign-up at the bottom of the page for Omail, Overstocks frequent flyer about over the top deals that normally only last through the weekend. A lot are for $1 shipping (a great deal on large rug or furniture purchases)…highlights the top sellers and best deals, both the website and e-mails are very clean and manuever through.

Making my top 8 mailing lists:

How often are e-mails received? Is the content worth the frequency?
How easy to read is it?
How easy is it to use the discount/promotion?
Can I get to the website easily from the e-mail?
Amount of savings (time/money)…

*Although this is my first post on mailing lists I will eventually offer more granular TOP 8 mailing lists: kids, food, offers, etc. Let me know what you’re interested in hearing about the most?

It’s in a book, just take a look…

Posted on March 22, 2009 by *Geekette*

Remember the days of Reading Rainbow?

It’s a book, just take a look…

For a while I was going crazy at Half-Priced Books:

Joining their mailing list, getting e-mails for printable coupons
Using their FREE in-store calendar with monthly coupons (25% off entire purchase…)
Becoming their friend on Facebook

…but with the recession (and a general desire to save some of my hard-earned money…) I decided to go back to the library. (Not a novel concept, one reason I didn’t return earlier was a pending $50 fine…)

Housed off the City of San Antonio’s website, the San Antonio Public Library system (SAPL) is surprisingly user-friendly and functional. It lacks creative, modern interfaces (no Flash can be a good thing…) but you can do almost everything you want to do.

@mysapl tweets!

Getting the Card:

Physically go to the SAPL nearest you with the following:

Who are you? (I.e. driver’s license or photo ID)
Proof of Residency (lease, utility statement, checkbook, etc.) <=free to all Bexar County residents…

Bits about Online Features

What’s missing, how long do I have?!

After you go to the library and create an account you can register online. Not only can you see what’s been checked out and when it’s due but you can also register for e-mail reminders (3 days out) to return which books/movies. You’ll also be notified when books/movies placed on hold are ready.

I’m still looking for the stupid book!! Help?!?!

Relax, just renew it. They even have a nice, “Renew All” button (although if you prefer you can put a checkmark next to individual titles too.)

Movies checked out for a week can be renewed once. Books, twice (potentially keeping a book for 9 weeks!)

Byte: If someone else wants the book, you can’t renew books that already have holds.

Browse/search the catalog, across SAPL branches, and find what I want!

Let’s say I moved, my old branch has a book my new branch does. No worries, I can place it on hold, either at the library or online, within my account. By finding what you want and placing it “on hold”, you’ll get a nice email letting you know everything is ready and waiting for you at the branch of your choice. You can waltz into the library, head straight to the holds shelf and find all the books you wanted, with your name on it, bundled with a little rubber band. And you’re done! (This is especially nice for parents with children who don’t feel like going or on the way home from work…)

You can place 20 items (movies and books) on hold at any time and once they’re received, they’ll keep it for 10 days.

Little Bits (LBs)

A SAPL branch by any other name is still as sweet…

You don’t have to return the book to the same location you got the book from! As long as it’s in the SAPL system you can drop it off!

It might not be too late…

As long as you drop it off before the library opens, the morning after it’s due, it’s NOT late! For example, I thought I was a day late (because my book was due Saturday) and was expecting a fine – I didn’t make it before the library closed that same Saturday. But because it was in the book slot before the library opened on Sunday I had a get out of jail card and no 10 cent fine. (This to me says, “We really want you to come and read!”)

Reserve books from across the country (or another country)…

The library doesn’t even have to have your book, if your book can be checked out from a library in Texas, the US, Canada (or other countries, as needed); they’ll ship your book to the SAPL branch of your choice in 2-12 weeks!

For example, I want to get into iPhone programming but SAPL only has a couple resources. However, by going to the Interlibrary Loan website and creating an account, you know have millions of books at your finger tips (more bits here).

One man’s old magazine is another man’s reading material…

Before you enter the library, there’s a plastic bin where you can swap your old magazines for someone else’s. Let someone else enjoy magazines you’ve finished while finding some new periodicals to peruse.

Better late than never…

Finally, don’t forget to return the books. When you have reached your renewal limits, bring the books (and especially movies!!) back to avoid the following fines:

Books: $.35/day (adult-aged, $10.00 maximum), $.15/day (kids, young adult, $6.00 maximum)

Movies: $2.00/day ($10.00 max)

Maps

Don’t forget to check out the maps to find the nearest library location AND to find out where the SAPL Bookmobile stops!

SAPL Locations on Google Maps

View San Antonio Public Library Locations in a larger map

SAPL Bookmobile Locations on Google Maps

View SAPL Bookmobile Locations in a larger map

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