We live just a few blocks away from my daughter’s elementary school, so (despite her sometimes very loud objections) we walk to class every day. I feel fortunate that we can do that, and realize not every one can. But nearly every day, I witness things that make me cringe: drivers speeding through the neighborhood, talking on cell phones, ignoring pedestrians. And what really gets me is, most of these careless drivers are parents with children in the back seat.

The Associated Press reported today that The Walt Disney Co. is expanding a refund program for its “Baby Einstein” videos for toddlers in response to challenges about the legitimacy of its educational claims. The company upgraded a customer satisfaction program beginning last month by explicitly offering cash refunds on any DVDs bought from June 5, 2004 to September 4, 2009. Here are the details of the program directly from Disney’s website.

The Baby Einstein™ DVD Upgrade or Money Back Guarantee

Participation Guidelines

To participate, you must have purchased a Baby Einstein DVD between June 5, 2004 and September 4, 2009.  Read the rest of this post...

Here are some of the fun freebies we found on the web this week:

Barnes and Noble

FREE small cookie and kid-size hot chocolate on Saturday, October 24 only. Get the coupon here.

Blockbuster Express

Get a FREE Rental from Blockbuster Express Kiosk with a code. Go to any Blockbuster Express and enter code GER9A2 and get free one night rental. Find the kiosk nearest you at Blockbuster Express.

The Picture People

FREE portrait sheet of Halloween wallet size prints. Get spooky here.  Read the rest of this post...

So how did the Five Hens kick off our Wild Week?  The Hens, Roosters and their chicks had a Wild Day of our own courtesy of The Wildlife Experience in Parker, Colorado.  The Wildlife Experience is an interactive museum that connects the community with wildlife and habitats to teach them how they can have a positive effect on the environment.   If your family is interested in learning about animals and their habitats around the world, this museum is for you!  Read the rest of this post...