Photo courtesy of: The Big Bang Theory and Stylin Online

“Soft kitty, warm kitty, little ball of fur. Happy kitty, sleepy kitty, purr, purr, purr!”

Fans of the CBS TV comedy, The Big Bang Theory, will recognize the “Soft Kitty” song that an ill Sheldon teaches to Penny and convinces her to sing to make him feel better. This cute and snuggly plush kitty sings the soothing song (in Penny’s voice) when the paw is pressed, and is guaranteed to bring a smile to your child’s face, whether she is sick or not!

Parents who may be concerned about giving their child a collectible item from The Big Bang Theory, which is a show that sometimes contains more “adult content”, can rest assured that there is nothing inappropriate for kids with the song or the plush toy. But you don’t just have to take my word for it. Here’s a short video to give you a better idea:

Photo courtesy of: The Big Bang Theory and Stylin Online

Here are the details you’ll need to know about the Soft Kitty Singing Plush Toy:

• This plush is a trademark The Big Bang Theory product.

• The kitty is 10-inches long.

• The plush toy is gray and pink.

• It requires three 1.5V button-cell batteries (included with the toy).

• It plays “Soft Kitty” when the button on the paw is pressed.

• The kitty is made of polyester fiber and is all new material.

• The plush is not machine washable. Surface cleaning should be done with a damp cloth.

• The toy is recommended for children (and adults) over the age of 3.

• The Soft Kitty plush is now available on Stylin Online for $29.99.

**I received no payment for this review, but did receive a free Soft Kitty Plush toy in exchange for an honest review on Creative Kids Ideas.**

Photo courtesy of: Jennifer Walker

Bubba Goes National, the debut novel of Jennifer Walker, is a compelling story about a girl, her horse, and the journey they embark on together. Although the book is written primarily for preteen and teen readers, the storyline will appeal to horse lovers both young and old. Anyone who has ever dreamed of owning a horse or ever loved a pet, will feel an instant connection with Leslie, the main character of Bubba.

The insightful and talented Jennifer Walker manages to get inside of the mind of a 13-year-old with the skill of a seasoned professional. The result is a novel  packed full of adventure, drama, interesting horse facts, important lessons, and believable characters. Through Leslie’s example, young readers are reminded that anything is possible if you want it enough and are willing to work hard for it. Jennifer cleverly weaves in accurate details about horse care and competitions, teaching young readers while telling an entertaining and realistic story. The conclusion leaves her readers wondering what will happen next and longing for more adventures with the kids at Green Stables. Read my full review of Bubba Goes National…

Note from Jo: I love the clever way Jennifer created an entertaining story for kids, while managing to teach them information in a fun and non-condescending way. My 9-year-old daughter couldn’t put down the book, and neither could I. (I’m a 9-year-old plus thirty! ) Although the book is written with tween and teen readers in mind (most suitable for ages 12 and up), horse lovers of all ages will love this story and its characters!

I happen to have it on good authority that the second book in the Riders of Green Meadow series is written and now in the editing phase. Jennifer and I just completed our novels together in the LAFFN challenge (Let’s All Finally Finish a Novel), which is Jenn’s brainchild.

About the author, Jennifer Walker:

Photo courtesy of: Jennifer Walker

Jennifer is the author of Bubba Goes National and Budget Horse-Keeping for the New Horse Owner. Her work has been published in several horse magazines, including Arabian Horse World, Modern Arabian Horse and Sierra Style. Ms. Walker also has short stories that appear in the anthologies, Elements of the Soul and The Ultimate Horse Lover. She is a freelance writer and editor, who also works in a dressage barn in California and is the proud owner of two Arabian horses.

Fans will be happy to know that Jennifer is already working on two sequels to Bubba Goes National, part of the Riders of Green Meadow series. To read more about Jennifer Walker and her current projects, please visit her at Jennifer Walker Writing Services. You can also read more of what Jennifer has to say on her blog, Jennifer Gets Bloggy.

Bubba Goes National is available for purchase on Jennifer’s website. Click here to order your autographed copy from the author. Bubba can also be bought through Twin Trinity Media (Windswept Destiny is an imprint) and is available on amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com and booksamillion.com.

DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL CONNECTION:
The book reviewer is a friend and colleague of Jennifer Walker, the author of Bubba Goes National. An author-provided copy of the book was provided to Creative Kids Ideas for the review.

Kids love animals, so why not use them teach? Cute, gross and unique animals all seem to grab children’s attention, so it’s time to use those critters to our advantage! After all, the whole idea is to get kids excited about learning, right?

Most kids are all ears (and tails!) when animals are involved, so here are some of our favorite pet theme lesson plans, crafts, games and activities:

Pet Lesson Using Franklin the Turtle
Whether they have a pet of their own or not, most kids are fascinated by animals. This preschool lesson plan uses Franklin’s search for a pet in Franklin Wants a Pet to teach children about different types of animals. It also focuses on some of the different environments in which pets live. Preschoolers will practice animal recognition and matching skills with this lesson.

Connect the Alphabet Puppy Dots
Print out this fun, connect-the-dots picture for kids to practice arranging the letters of the alphabet in order. This PDF, along with many other cute animal theme ideas, can be found at KinderPlans.com.

Lesson Plan About Caring for Pets
Help kids learn about caring for their pets with this fun lesson based on Mercer Mayer’s book, Just Me and My Puppy. The lesson also includes a short song and game to get children actively involved.

3-D Pet Craft
This project teaches kids how to make their own 3-D pets, like the featured at the top of this article. The 3-D pet craft is made from a recycled toilet paper roll and scrap materials. This crafts project is great for home or school.

Pet Games and Activities
Check out these games, printable coloring pages and activities for teaching kids through the use of animals, at ChildFun.com.

You can also find a list of excellent pet themed books, activities, games, and learning resources in the Pre-K Pets Theme Unit at Prekinders.com.

Do you have any fun pet themed lessons, activities or crafts? Feel free to share your ideas with Creative Kids Ideas in the comments section.