Who:Stix Mindfulness
What:Stix Mindfulness Remotes
Why:
These intriguing sticks or ‘stix’ really caused a stir at the JDA’s with our judges lining up to give them a go! Stix Remotes are two hand-held sensory devices that use audio, haptic feedback and calming lights to guide kids through fun and interactive therapeutic activities created to encourage mindfulness and increase wellbeing.
The exercises have been designed by psychologists, involving balancing, deep breathing and guided meditations and can be used with or without the Stix app which gamifies their experience, offering children rewards in the form of stars for completing activities.
Our panel liked the element of choice here and the ability to stay in control of screen time if need be and felt that these Stix provided a great focal point for kids who want to find a way of winding down and pausing for mindfulness in their day.
I would really like to give these Stix a try at home. A really interesting idea that I think my boys would like.
I can see children being really drawn to these Stix and finding them very helpful for winding down and de-stressing in a fun way. I like the way children can build up stars on the app over time and use them to customise their own mindful monster.
The term mindfulness can sometimes feel a bit abstract, especially for kids, so these physical tools or stix are a great idea to help children focus and breathe without even realising they’re doing it.
I’ve never come across a product like this. What a great way to help children get to grips with mindfulness. Whether it’s a moment of calm before bed or concentrating in the lead-up to exams, children can reach for their remotes when life gets a bit overwhelming. They were a hit on judging day!
Who:BioGaia
What:BioGaia Pro-biotic Drops and Vitamins
Why:
BioGaia’s range of Protectis drops and tablets were extremely well received by our judges who felt the presentation and packaging was fresh, stylish and reassuring.
Growing understanding of the huge significance that gut health has on every aspect of our well-being put a great deal of focus on this entry and our judges were keen to learn how Gastrus tablets, could have a positive effect on gut-related issues, including IBS, colic, reflux, bowel problems and more for the whole family.
A smart, well-researched and well-presented collection of probiotics that can benefit the whole family. The clinical trials are impressive.
When you consider how many issues kids can face when it comes to tummy problems and digestion, it makes a lot of sense to consider specially designed pro-biotics for them.
If your doctor has recommended a probiotic supplement for your little one, the strains found in BioGaia are backed up by some impressive clinical trials.
Nice packaging.
Who:Brush-Baby
What:Brush-Baby oral care products for 0-3 year olds
Why:
Our judges were not surprised to learn that this fun and effective range of oral care products were devised by a mum! Formulated and designed in conjunction with a dentist, these products put children front and centre, encouraging them to have fun while they brush and to brush effectively.
The panel loved the super cute electric toothbrushes in the shape of wild animals which are easy for little hands to hold and just the right size for smaller mouths. The fruity toothpastes were also praised as a great alternative to the usual mint option that some children just don’t get on with.
Everyone who tested one of these toothbrushes at home was extremely impressed. A great way to start your child off on a positive relationship with brushing and oral health.
I used the BabySonic Electric Toothbrush with both my girls. It lights up inside your little one’s mouth so you can see all their teeth as your brush. They loved having such a ‘grown-up’ device, too.
I love the designs - bright and fun!
Who:KINSPIRE
What:KINSPIRE Enchanted Collection
Why:
We had to give this wonderful organisation who help children coping with grief and loss a highly commended award. Their mission to promote positive self-expression for children navigating their way through grief with the help of a series of comforting furry characters, engaging stories and resource guides for families was much applauded by the JDA judges. Bravo.