Plush With A Purpose Part 4: Kimochis

Welcome to the fourth part of
our ”Plush With A Purpose” roundup:

Feelings, Nothing More Than Feelings

Is your child going through the terrible twos or threes? It’s tough when children do not know how to explain themselves and haven’t learned to communicate effectively.  There’s so much going on in a young child’s mind. Emotions can be confusing and sometimes unmanageable. We encourage Teagan to discuss her feelings but some kids her age are impulsive and are quick to cry or throw tantrums. Conversations, patience and reassurance are key. Plus, a lot of role-playing to help discover what to do when you feel a certain way. We’re lucky that we came across Kimochis! They are the fourth company in our Plush With a Purpose roundup. Kimochis is a “feeling toy” that encourages kids and parents to address feelings.

These plush toys are more than a cute face. Kimochis means “feeling” in Japanese. They all have special feelings inside. Currently there are four Kimochis available:  Huggtopus, Cloud, Bug and Cat. Each Kimochi comes with three emotion pillows and a guide that includes lessons on how to use them. The pillows are double sided. One side has the word and the other side has a facial expression to match the word. Other emotions are available for purchase in sets of 12 ($12). Are you a handy mom or dad? Maybe you could make some emotion pillows of your own.

ThatsITmommy received the Kimochi Bug. This bug is really smart but is afraid of change. His emotions are Happy, Brave and Left Out. The Bug is well made and has a smooth velvety surface. He’s also a nice size for hugs from little hands and arms. Izzy tested out Bug and she was able to use and understand the emotions that are stored in Bug’s belly. Izzy sought out Happy since that that was the emotion she was feeling. Izzy and her parents are still working on Brave and Left Out. This toy can be used in stages as Izzy’s vocabulary strengthens and her awareness of feelings grows. Izzy and her parents can turn to Bug if they need some guidance. And of course Izzy can play and cuddle with him every day!

Kimochis will benefit not only the child but also the parent! Great communication starts from home and should be guided from an early age. Don’t be afraid to talk to your children. I always get a better reaction when I get down to Teagan’s level to talk to her about the way she feels. Don’t get me wrong I get frustrated but the results aren’t pretty and unproductive if we’re both upset. Thankfully there are amazing people with innovative ideas that can help us through tough phases with our kids. Stop by kimochi.com. There’s a great section for parents that offers role-play tips and practice skills. You can also learn about all the characters, Kimochis philosophy and the team behind it all.

Stayed tuned for their newest Kimochis member. Lovey Dove! She looks so sweet! Komichis and Mixed Feelings Packs can be purchased at their online store. A wonderful gift for any child.

www.kimochis.com
$25.00
Ages 3+

GIVEAWAY – Kimochis is offering one lucky thatsITmommy reader a Kimochis of their choice!
(Lovey Dove is NOT available)

MANDATORY MAIN ENTRY – Visit www.kimochis.com and tell us something new you learned about Kimochis. AND which one is your favorite character.

Come back here and leave a comment in the reply box below this post.

(Remember if this MAIN ENTRY RULE is not followed then no other entries will count)

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This giveaway will run through midnight on March 5, 2010 (PST) with winner being announced March 6, 2010 (PST). Winner will be chosen using Random.org from all valid entries and notified via email. Winner will have 48 hours to contact us before another winner is chosen. Giveaway is open to U.S. residents only.

* We did not receive monetary compensation for this review.
*We did receive a Kimochis for review purposes.
This will in no way sway our opinion of the service.
The review is in our own words and is our opinion. Your results and opinion may differ.