M&M Funky Five Jive

This week on M&M Funky Five Jive , we take you behind the scenes as we chat with the Lebanon Reporter about all things Chika Chaka —from how the game was created to why we believe movement-based play matters more than ever. 👀 Get the scoop before it hits the paper 📞 Hear us literally on the phone with the press 🎲 And find out what we’re bringing to the Indy 500 Festival Kids Day on May 10!...

💡 Gen X: The Masters of DIY Fun & Ultimate Problem-Solvers! 💡🚲 Growing up Gen X meant turning boredom into epic adventures. No internet? No problem - we built entire worlds with sticks, couch cushions, and whatever junk we found in the garage. We rode bikes for miles with no GPS, made prank calls from landlines, and turned the backyard into a full-blown obstacle course. Who needed apps when...

Before streaming and on-demand content, movies were an event - whether it was a trip to the theater, a Friday night at the drive-in, or waiting for your favorite VHS to rewind. From Baby Boomers to Gen X, certain films became more than just entertainment; they were cultural moments that shaped our childhoods and beyond. In this episode, we’re diving into some of our most iconic movies that defined...

🎲🎉Think board games are a thing of the past? Think again! In this podcast, we’re bringing back 10 classic board games from the 70s, 80s, and beyond that are still just as fun today. These games create laughs, friendly competition, and unforgettable family moments ! From high-stakes strategy to pure chaotic fun, these games will have you rolling the dice, making memories, and proving that board g...

🚨 Feeling stressed? You’re not alone. Stress levels are skyrocketing, impacting both kids and adults more than ever. There's been a surge in the number of adults turning to board games, collectible figures, and other traditionally kid-oriented toys to enjoy life more and release stress. But, there's also deep breathing and meditation - another movement that's been growing in popularit...

Get ready for this extended edition of our podcast where we take a nostalgic ride through the legendary music of the 70s and 80s! In this episode, we break down the anthems that shaped GenXers and late Baby Boomers, from epic rock ballads and disco hits to the rise of MTV, punk rock, and early hip-hop. We’ll share personal stories, show off some classic memorabilia, and put each other's music...

Step into a world of jingles, imagination, and Saturday morning magic as we explore the golden age of 1970s toy commercials! From Star Wars action figures to the iconic Barbie , we’re diving into what made these ads so special—and why they remain pop culture treasures today. Discover the marketing tactics, cultural trends, and unforgettable moments that defined a generation’s childhood. Tune in fo...

Following on the platform heels of “How to Choose Safe Toys for Your Kids”, last week ( www.chikachakatoy.blogspot.com ), we couldn’t help but take a closer look (lest we shoot our eyes out) at toys of the ‘70’s. Ah, the 1970s—a time of disco balls, bell-bottoms, and toys that could maim, scorch, or blind you faster than you could say “right on.” Back then, toy manufacturers seemed to embrace the...

In this episode, we’re breaking down how to pick safe toys and play safely with the ones your kids have. Spotting hidden hazards (bye-bye, choking hazards and sharp edges! 👋) can be confusing. We’ve got all the tips you need to play smarter. Learn how to match toys to your child’s age and developmental stage, and avoid common safety pitfalls! 🤔🎁 Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or the “coo...

Looking for ways to keep the holidays stress-free and full of joy? 🌟 Check out this episode, “How to Balance Gift Giving and Making Holiday Memories: 5 Tips to Keep the Season Bright” ! Here’s what you’ll find: 🎄 How to make the most of the days leading up to Christmas 🎁 Thoughtful gift-giving tips that show you care ✨ Ideas for creating meaningful, non-gifting holiday traditions 🎲 Easy ways...

In a world filled with screens and streaming, there’s something magical about stepping away and rediscovering the charm of traditional play. From board games to outdoor adventures, these activities offer a wealth of benefits for your body, mind, and relationships. 💡💪💬 ✨ Boost physical health ✨ Spark creativity and reduce stress ✨ Strengthen social connections Check out our latest podcast and...

🚗✈️ Ready for adventure? Episode 2 of the M&M Funky Five Jive is HERE! 🎉 We’re diving into Traveling with Kids—from car games to snack hacks, we discuss tips to keep the little ones entertained and your sanity intact. Laugh along with us as we share our own stories of kid mayhem. Got stories of your own? Share them with us below.

Music has long been a medium to connect with kids, and collaborations between artists and toy companies are bringing new dimensions to this concept. As parents, guardians, or toy enthusiasts, it’s fascinating to see how these partnerships bridge the worlds of music, art, and play to inspire fans of all ages.  Mike and Mel explore this concept.