2023 Toy of the Year Award Finalists | Ride On Category

In partnership with The Toy Foundation.

Can you believe it? The holidays will be here in no time, and children will be anxious to turn in their requests for toys. It always happens so fast, but this year I’m planning to beat the rush, and stick to a holiday budget!

For many years, The Toy Foundation has hosted the Toy of the Year (TOTY) Awards to celebrate the creativity and philanthropy of the toy industry. It is an evening to honor the very best in the toy space, and it serves as a critical fundraiser to support children in need worldwide. As a former preschool teacher, this makes my heart so happy. The importance of play is a big deal to me, I have seen the way it can change lives. I enjoyed going outdoors as a kid, and I want to share my love of it with my children.

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Razor Ground force elite and radio flyer extreme drift go-kart

What are ride-on toys?

Ride-on toys are any toy that can be ridden on, for example, a bike or scooter. It’s a great way to get kids active and having fun. They can also help develop essential skills like balance and coordination. And, of course, they're just plain fun!

If you're looking for a great ride-on toy for the holidays, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• The child's age and size: Make sure to choose a toy appropriate for the child's age and size. Some ride-on toys are designed for younger children, while others are better suited for older kids.

• The child's interests: Think about what your child likes to do and choose a toy that fits their interests. For example, if your child loves animals, you might get them a ride-on animal toy.

• The budget: Ride-on toys can range in price from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars. Choose a toy that fits your budget.

Here are the 2023 Toy of the Year Finalists that may be on your kid’s Christmas list.

• Razor The Crazy Cart Shuffle: a kid-powered go-kart that allows rides to drive, drift, and spin with ease! Ages: 4+; this cart is absolutely amazing, and I wish there was one for me! It’s loads of fun; as my son learned his way around the cart, he started doing all types of drifting tricks! With the adjusting bar, we will get to enjoy this cart for years to come. 

• Razor Ground Force Elite: Electric go-kart for ages 13+; This cart is sleek and super cool! If you want the older kids to come outside, this will do it! My 15-year-old enjoyed zipping and zooming in on this cart. She did have a little trouble fitting into the cart due to her height of 5’5. It would be perfect for our family if it were a little larger.

• YBike Leap: A balancing cart that can be ridden both ways is perfect for ages 4 - 9. It’s so much fun, but it does take a little getting used to. It reminds me of the sit-and-spin carts I had growing up.

• Radio Flyer Extreme Drift Go-Kart: A sleek design with the feel of a real race car, perfect for kids 5-12. This cart screams, coolest kid on the block! My 4-year-old can’t wait until he’s old enough to drive it.

• Scoot & Ride - Highwaykick 1: This 2-in-1 combination scooter is perfect for little ones who have taken an interest in moving toys. It comes in a variety of colors, with the neutral matte ones being my faves! The scooter can be used as a tricycle or a traditional scooter. Ideal for ages 1-5. In standing/scooter mode, if you have a child who is on the taller side, you may want to consider another scooter from their line. My son is pretty tall, and before long, he will outgrow it. 

• Little Tikes Street Burner : A cool motorcycle-style bike perfect for kids 3+, including training wheels for younger riders.

• Droyd Romper - Electric Tricycle, yes please, perfect for ages 3-5. The front wheel lights up, and you can set the speed with a locking key. 

No matter what your child's interests or budget, there's a ride-on toy out there that's perfect for them. So get shopping and find the perfect way to make this holiday season one to remember!

We have enjoyed playing with these toys and know they deserve a spot on the finalists list. If you would like to vote for your favorite ride-on toy, visit the Toy Foundation to cast your vote now - through September 8, 2023. 

GIVEAWAY ANNOUNCEMENT:

As a special bonus, I will be giving away 1 of the following items to help foster your love of play! We have enjoyed playing with these items so much, and we can’t wait to pass on the fun to you! 

Razor The Crazy Cart Shuffle

Little Tikes Street Burner

Droyd Romper

Rules:

1. You must be following me @freely_nat on Instagram and YouTube

2. You must be following The Toy Foundation on Instagram

3. Like and comment on the YouTube video.

Bonus: Like and share my Instagram posts related to the Toy of the Year Awards, between now and September 15 on your stories, please tag me so the entry will be counted.

The giveaway will close on September 15, 2023, at 12:00 pm/EST and the winner will be announced via Instagram on September 22, 2023, at 12:00 pm noon/EST!

You can share multiple posts; please be sure to tag me. The more shares = more entries. We want to take this time to highlight the amazing work that The Toy Foundation is doing. You must be 18 years or older to enter, and open to the United States only. To learn more or donate to the Toy Foundation, you can visit their website here.

Escape the Summer Heat with a Cooler Vacation

Summer is one of my family’s favorite seasons, we’re outside more and constantly on the go, but the heat can be a pain. It's easy to escape the summer heat just by looking for ways to stay cool. You can do this at home or when on vacation so your time with the family isn't ruined. From making good use of an HVAC system to simply using shade to your advantage, here are some practical cooking tips.

Try Hitting the Slopes

First, who said you have to spend your summer holidays somewhere hot? If you live in a hot climate like a western US state, it's pretty much hot all the time, and you might want something different. In this case, this could mean hitting the slopes for some fun in the snow. Like hot climates, there are places that are cold all year round, like the Rockies, so you can finally wear those trending womens gloves, scarves, and jumpsuits you just had to have at that last sale.

Stay Inside with the AC

You don't need to go on holiday to enjoy the summer, and being at home can be just as fun. However, the heat can be almost offensive when it reaches a certain temperature, and you won't even want to go outside. Look at the recent (July 2023) temperatures in the USA, where Phoenix, AZ, averaged 103° for almost three weeks. That kind of heat is unbearable and dangerous. So stay inside for safety, and crank up the HVAC as far as it will possibly go.

Dress for the Location

There's always that one person wearing a wool sweater and jeans at the beach, right? Don't be that person. You are likely to overheat and, at the very least, be extremely uncomfortable when out in the summer sun. Of course, don't feel like you have to dress in a way that makes you uncomfortable or goes against cultural and religious traditions. But dressing for the weather will help. Lighter fabrics in weight and color will help, and a bathing costume is great for the beach.

Pack Your Travel Cooler

A travel cooler is an essential summer item when you aren't at home. At home, you can use the fridge and freezer, but that luxury is gone when out and about. However, there are some things you need to be aware of when packing a travel cooler in the right way, so try these small tips:

• Freeze packs and water bottles the day before you are set to leave.

• Place your cooler in a cool spot inside your home the day before.

• Line your cooler's bottom with your frozen ice packs.

• Store strong foods and packaging at the bottom with delicates at the top.

• Pack food suitable for coolers, such as pasta salads, dips, and jarred foods.

A travel cooler isn't the same as a fridge, and not everything is ideal. However, you can stay cool with some chilled snacks, picnic meals, and drinks from a travel cooler when traveling.

The Sea is Your Friend at the Beach

Does anyone visit the beach and not take a dip in the sea or ocean? Of course, it may not be for you, but you will miss out on some excellent benefits if you just stick to the sandy shore. The sea is almost always a heck of a lot colder than the air in the summer, even in very hot places. A quick dip can help cool you down a bit and relieve some tension in your muscles. Also, seawater is rich in vitamins and minerals that can help your skin after UV rays from the sun.

Use Shade to Escape the Summer Heat

You may not want to stay indoors when the weather is fine. But you must always stay in the shade. A random pergola, a restaurant parasol, and even a tree make for great ways to protect yourself from the sun and the heat. While the shade isn't actually cooler, you feel the air temperature as it is rather than feeling the heat of direct sunlight. In almost all cases, the difference you feel is between 10° and 15°, which can prevent a severe issue on hot days.

Stay Hydrated

You lose more water when you are hotter as your body tries to cool you down. This world is when the moisture from your skin evaporates into the air. But you need to keep the moisture coming, and you do this by drinking more water. You are dehydrated if you feel like you need a drink, so keep water or a non-alcoholic, caffeine-free drink handy. A chilled drink will also help lower your core temperature and can keep you feeling more comfortable. Ice pops are also a great treat.

Hitting the slopes and trying a vacation in a cold climate can help you escape the summer heat. But that's not everyone's idea of fun. So always take a travel cooler with you if you go out into the sun during the summer holidays, and make sure to stay in the shade and drink more water.

2023 Amazon Prime Day Deals Are Here 🎉

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Amazon Prime Day is starting tomorrow! The sale will run for 2 days, July 11-12, 2023, and they are offering a few amazing deals to help you save just in time for back to school.

Below, you will find some of the top deals I think are worth grabbing if you need them! Stay up to date with deals by checking my Amazon Storefront.

Beauty - Save up to 35%

LANEIGE Lip Sleeping Mask

FOREO LUNA 3 Facial Cleansing Brush

MAYBELLINE Hyper Easy Liquid Pen No-Skip Eyeliner

Maybelline New York The Falsies Lash Lift Washable Mascara

Real Techniques Assorted Sponges 

Real Techniques Sponges 2pk

Real Techniques Sponges 4pk

Real Techniques Everyday Essentials Makeup Brushes - One of my favorites! 

Fragrances 

Happy AF by Addison Rae Fragrance - Fruity Floral 

Hyped AF by Addison Rae Fragrance - Woody Citrus 

Chill AF by Addison Rae Fragrance - Floral Woody 

Swiss Arabian Layali Perfume Oil - Opens with finest notes of Black Currant and uplifting Orange Flower. The beating heart of the fragrance consists of Ylang Ylang and Rose. Oud and Amber add depth to the aroma and inspire attention.

Swiss Arabian Layali Rouge

Swiss Arabian Amaali - Opens with the finest notes of Pineapple and uplifting Lemon. The beating heart of the fragrance brings out the deep resonance of Jasmine and Rose. Cedarwood and Vanilla add depth to the fragrance and inspire attention.

Personal Care Items

Dove Men’s Extra Fresh 4pk

Dove Men’s Deodorant - Clean Comfort 4pk 

Dove Sensitive Skin Bar Soap - 14pk 

Dove Body Wash - Cucumber and Green Tea 3pk

SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie 

SheaMoisture Curl Mousse 

Dr Teal’s Pure Epsom Salt 4pk

Dr Teal’s Lavender Bath Soap 4pk

Dr Teal’s Sleep Spray 3pk 

SPANX Ecocare Shaping Briefs 

SPANX Undie-tectable Thong 

Haircare 

INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR The Knot Dr. All-in-One Oval Dryer

Remington Pro Wet2style Hair Dryer

Tech

Save Up to 20% off on Amazon Basics 

Echo Dot (5th Gen) with Clock and Bluetooth Bulb 

Echo Pop Smart Speaker 

Echo Studio | Glacier White with Sengled Bluetooth Color Bulb

JBL Quantum 100 - Wired Over-Ear Gaming Headphones - $20

Tribit Kids Headphones Wired with Microphone - $16

Amazon Basics Wired Earbuds 

Amazon Basics Neoprene Workout Dumbbell

Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen) | Charcoal with Blink Mini Indoor Smart Security Camera, 1080 HD with Motion Detection

Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus tablet, 10.1" 1080p Full HD display, 32 GB

Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Pro tablet, 8" HD display, ages 6-12

Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen, 2023 release) Kids

Fire TV Stick 4K Max - $25

Amazon Basics Stemless Wine Glasses 4pk

Acer 27” Monitor Full HD 

HP OMEN 27q QHD 165Hz Gaming Monitor

Acer Aspire TC-1760-UA92 Desktop

JBL Live 660NC - Wireless Over-Ear Noise Cancelling Headphones

Home

Ring Video Doorbell (Venetian Bronze) bundle with Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen)

All-new Ring Indoor Cam (2nd Gen) | 1080p HD Video & Color Night Vision, Two-Way Talk, and Manual Audio & Video Privacy Cover (2023 release) | White

Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 with Ring Floodlight Cam Wired (White)

Hisense 50-inch ULED U6HF Series Quantum Dot QLED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV

Moen Arbor Matte Black One-Handle Pulldown Kitchen Sink Faucet

Moen Engage Spot Resist Brushed Nickel Magnetix Six-Function 5.5-Inch Handheld Showerhead

BLACK+DECKER POWERSERIES+ 20V MAX Cordless Vacuum

Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner, Cleans Front Load and Top Load Washers

Stanley 18oz Food Jar

Stanley Travel Mug 

Ulta Big Summer Beauty Sale | Week 1: June 25 - Jul 1, 2023

Hey Friends, yall know it’s that time of year when everyone is having a summer blowout sale! Well, Ulta is one of my favorite places to shop, and I’m all about maximizing my deals and saving money where I can. So here’s what you need to know!

Sale Dates: June 25 - Jul 15, 2023

For 3 Weeks, you can find deals on curl care, jumbos, fragrance, makeup, and skincare! Some deals will last for the entire duration of the event, while others will be weekly. Below, I’m sharing the best deals for the entire sale and the first week. Be on the lookout for weeks 2 and 3 soon.

Select Curl Brands B1G1 50% Off

I recently went natural again, and finding things for my curly has been relatively easy this time around. There are so many amazing products out there now that work for 4C, and I’m happy to share them with you.

PATTERN

Pattern has a solid line of products, from the curliest to the coily of hair! Even if you aren’t ready to purchase the full-size products, the sample kit is worth it! 

Camille Rose - Almond Twisting Butter

This is hands down the best twisting butter I have ever used! I’ve been using it for a few years on my kids' hair to give them juicy and hydrated twists. 

Donna’s Recipe by Tabitha Brown

Strength Hair Oil

A light, yummy-smelling oil designed to stimulate the hair follicles and promote growth.

Mielle Curling Custard

Want fresh out the shower curls to stay? This is it! The first time I tried it, I was shocked that my curls could look so defined.

Bread Beauty Supply

Now, I haven’t tried their products before, but here’s what I’m getting after seeing the reviews!

Bread Hair Cream

Bread Hair Oil Gloss

The Gloss is supposed to be used to give your hair added shine on the go, with a

B1G1 40% Select Sun and Skincare

Sunscreen has been a game changer for me in managing my hyperpigmentation. Honestly, I had no idea I needed to be using sunscreen until a few years ago. I would only wear it to the beach; now I’m a sunscreen girlie!

A big thing for me regarding sunscreen is how it looks and feels on my skin. I’m team #nowhitecast. I don’t wear makeup daily, so having a ghostly white cast makes me look crazy. On the days when I’m going for that effortlessly flawless skin, I want my sunscreen to be hydrating and give my skin a glowy look. 

Here are my faves out of their sale selection:

Hydroboost Hyluranic Acid Gel Cream

And while this is recommended for dry skin, it works well for oily skin, too to help balance it out.

Thayers Toners

thayers facial toner

I’m a toner girl, and my routine doesn’t feel complete without one. They come in 4 scents: Rose Petal, Lavender, Cucumber, and Unscented. 

Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm

Cleansing balms are a staple in my skincare routine. They can be used as a first step in cleansing or removing makeup.

This week only - June 25 - July 1, 2023

That’s all my friends! Let me know if you have something that’s on your list!