From Karen Spaulding, A kindergarden teacher-
"Jingles has been part of my classroom for the past eight years. My students can't wait to see whose turn it is to find Jingles each morning. They are filled with excitement and anticipation every day while searching for him. Over the years, my students have absolutely loved this activity. It is fun for all!"
From 5 Vinez Monkeys-
Jingles arrived on our doorstep while we were on vacation. Hubby opened the package and assured me that Jingles was just fine and had survived his trip from Santa's workshop. I couldn't wait to get home and meet Jingles!
Now, before I go any further, I need to say a few things. Yes, I am a Christian mom. We completely understand the true meaning of Christmas, and that it is the day that we celebrate the birth of our Savior. I do, however, also allow my children to believe in Santa. I think it's important that they not only have a little fun, but they understand the importance of giving. And anything that can foster and encourage their little imaginations to grow and prosper is just fine by me. I absolutely respect any other Christian mom out there who does not allow their children to believe in Santa. I'm just not one of those moms.
Now, back to my review. It was obvious to all the kids that Jingles came early to play with us. He just couldn't wait until December. And the kids were all ready to play his little game! The first night home, Jingles hid under the tv stand. Jace was the first one to find him the next morning. Each morning since then, the kids have taken turns finding Jingles somewhere new around the house. They love it! And Lucy just adores Jingles. She carries him around with her all day long, just loving on him. She'll stroke his beard and say, "Oh, Jingles. You're my bestest friend ever." I think it's going to break her heart when Santa takes Jingles back home to the North Pole.
There are several things that I really love about the Jingles The Elf kit: First of all, I love that encourages the kids to play together, and to use their imaginations. Next, I love the recipes, the craft ideas, and the other things the book includes. (My favorite section is "The Giving Tree" section. I've already promised the kids we will be doing that this year!) Thirdly, I love that Jingles encourages the kids to get excited about reading. Not only by reading the stories that are in the book, but also by "playing" along with the "A Book A Day" in December activity. Reading with my kids is one of my favorite parts of the day, and I always love when a product gets the kids excited about reading. And lastly, I love that the entire kit comes packaged in a beautiful keepsake box. It's perfect for storing year after year, and Jingles will always be kept in a safe place, ready to play the moment you are!
If you have kids, and are looking for a fun way to count down the days until Christmas, I'd love to recommend Jingles The Elf to you!
To view review please click here
From Andrea Coventy-
Jingles the Elf by Krissy Smith is Elf on the Shelf amplified. (And Jingles was actually born three years before the other.) He comes in a special box containing the book and a little elf, but then so much more.
The story of Jingles is similar to that of Shelf, as it's about Santa's little helper who comes to watch over children in the days leading up to Christmas, to report all naughty and nice behaviors to the man in charge up North. He plays hide and seek with the children, hiding when they are sleeping, so that they can find him when they are awake. But he also does even more.
Krissy Smith's book contains two versions of the story of Jingles. One is written in prose, to tell how his game works. The second is written in rhyme and tells the history of how the game came to be. It is followed by a hot cocoa recipe, for families to share. The other recipe is for sweet-smelling homemade ornaments made out of dough. Jingles also provides an activity to help families build literacy over the holiday season.
Most touching and unique in this book package is ways for families to help others in need. Jingles shares how he and his friends decorate "The Giving Tree" that helps to feed wildlife. There are also links to numerous websites that tell how families can give around the world, or to their own local communities.
The book is very sweet, and the stuffed elf toy that accompanies it is actually cute. This is a great memory-building activity that will stay with families for years to come.
To view review please click here.
