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Friday, September 30, 2022

'Yellowstone' Season 5: Release Date, News, How To Watch


It’s only been a few months since Season 4 of Yellowstone came to a dramatic close, but already fans are ready for more. While we shouldn’t say desperate for more because the Dutton family would definitely scoff at any sign of desperation, you get the picture. But don’t fret, folks. Season 5 of Yellowstone will be here sooner than you think and here’s everything we know about it so far.

When will Yellowstone Season 5 premiere?

Yellowstone will start streaming on Paramount+ on Nov. 13, 2022. Considering where he left us at the end of the fourth season, the fifth cannot come soon enough.

[Note: Spoilers ahead for Season 4 of Yellowstone.]

Where did Yellowstone leave off?

Season 4 of Yellowstone saw a sea change for the Dutton family. Patriarch John Dutton (Kevin Costner) was considering a run for governor of Montana, while Beth (Kelly Reilly) and Rip (Cole Hauser) were busy dealing with their newly adopted teenage son, Carter (Finn Little). Meanwhile, Kayce (Luke Grimes) has moved his family off the Dutton ranch to try to find a more peaceful life for pregnant wife Monica (Kelsey Asbille) and son Tate (Breckin Merrill). And let’s not forget poor young Tate was forced to kill an attacker to defend his mom, so he’s dealing with a lot of emotional turmoil.

As for Jamie (Wes Bentley), he had a lot going on himself. Finding out he was adopted and that his birth father Garrett Randall (Will Patton) was responsible for attacks on John, Beth, and Kayce at the same time. And let’s not forget that Jamie was also planning to announce his bid to run for governor when his adopted father, John Dutton, beat him to the punch. The next family dinner should prove to be all kinds of awkward.

A trailer for Season 5 of Yellowstone has dropped, and it looks like John is Governor.

A powerful new trailer for Season 5 of Yellowstone dropped in September, and it looks as though John Dutton has finally been sworn in as Governor of Montana. What does he do immediately? Fires a bunch of people and makes Beth his new CEO. Signs some sort of order that his son Jamie calls akin to signing “a declaration of war.” The entire family seems to be stirring up trouble as ever in the new trailer, and if it doesn’t get you excited for Season 5 to premiere in November I don’t know what will.

Cast members gave us a glimpse of filming Season 5.

Cole Hauser took to Instagram to give a few glimpses of Rip in Season 5, one of which saw him riding a horse down the highway in Montana. Classic Rip. Kelly Reilly shared a gorgeous photo of the mountains of Montana on Instagram with the message, “Lily of the valley made it from my garden today to this beautiful valley in Montana. I have missed these mountains so much, this cast and crew and of course her...” Just knowing they’re back on the job is exciting enough.

A country music star is joining the cast.

Country music star Lainey Wilson shared a big announcement during her appearance at Under The Big Sky festival in Montana over the weekend. “I did want to share some news with y’all,” she said to a concert crowd per Good Housekeeping. “I am going to be in the next season of Yellowstone, and I’m excited. I’m going to be a musician on the show named Abby and I get to share my music with a lot of the world who watches the show.” Wilson went on to share that she is going to be featured in the very first episode, “It’s a big d--n deal. So, thank y’all. Thank y’all so much. Y’all be sure to tune in November 13 for the first episode. You’re going to see my big ol’ head on that screen. Trust me, I can’t believe it either.”

Some behind-the-scenes script peeks from Beth Dutton herself.

Real-life Beth Dutton Kelly Reilly took to her Instagram Story recently to share some gorgeous views of Montana, as she has often done in the past. But she also shared a glimpse of some Season 5 scripts for Yellowstone, and that’s new for her. Naturally some eagle-eyed Redditors studied the photo for clues about the scripts and found some interesting episode titles, per Taste of Country:

  • Episode 1: "One Hundred Years is Nothing"
  • Episode 2: "The Sting of Wisdom"
  • Episode 4: "Horses in Heaven"
  • Episode 5: "Watch ‘Em Ride Away"
  • Episode 6: "Cigarettes, Whiskey, a Meadow, and You"

All of the scripts seem to be written by series creator Taylor Sheridan, and weirdly enough the third episode script is missing. The plot thickens.

Season 5 of Yellowstone is set to be the biggest one yet.

While the previous four seasons of Yellowstone were 10 episodes each, the new season is expected to be 14 episodes broken down into two sets of seven installments each, Sheridan told Variety.

Where can you watch Yellowstone?

You can stream the first four seasons of Yellowstone on Paramount+ and Peacock to reacquaint yourself with the all the Dutton family dynamics, struggles, and of course all that gorgeous Montana scenery. Just remember; it’s rated TV-MA and is definitely not a cute cowboy show for kids.


New Netflix Kids Shows & Movies In October 2022


Here's a look at the best movies and shows coming to Netflix for kids and families in October 2022.

View this story on Romper


McDonald's Will Sell Adult Happy Meals With Toys & Everything


McDonald’s Happy Meals are one of the great joys of childhood. Getting a toy with your cheeseburger, fries, and a drink or whatever, not to mention the tidy little box it comes in, it’s pretty much the best. So great, in fact, that it’s easy enough to get jealous of your kid when they get a Happy Meal and you just have to eat a regular meal like a boring grown up. For now, at least. Because McDonald’s is introducing adult Happy Meals in October for a limited time only. So now maybe your kids can be jealous of your awesome Happy Meal. How the tables have turned.

Starting Oct. 3 and continuing while supplies last, McDonald’s will be teaming up with the fashion streetwear design brand Cactus Plant Flea Market to offer adult Happy Meals called Cactus Plant Flea Market Meal Boxes. These meal boxes will come complete with a classic McDonald’s character toy; Grimace, the Hamburglar, Birdie, and a new toy called Cactus Buddy. The Cactuc Plant Flea Market Boxes can come with either a Big Mac or a 10-piece chicken McNuggets served with french fries and a drink.

“We're taking one of the most nostalgic McDonald's experiences and literally repackaging it in a new way that's hyper-relevant for our adult fans,” Tariq Hassan, McDonald’s USA Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer, said in a statement. “I can’t wait to give fans a unique piece of art and culture as we dive headfirst into the dynamic world of Cactus Plant Flea Market together next week. With menu favorites like the Big Mac and McNuggets at the center of this collab, this is another way we're reigniting a new generation’s love for our food and the brand.”

Customers who order the Cactus Plant Flea Market Meal Box in their McDonald’s app will even get their names entered for a chance to win exclusive free merchandise every week, like a Grimace chair of your very own, t-shirts made exclusively for the McDonald’s x Cactus Plant Flea Market collaboration, and more.

As exciting as it is to see adult Happy Meals, some social media users slightly misunderstood what the fast food giant meant by “adult” and hopefully won’t be too disappointed when they discover their meal does not, in fact, include “a socket wrench or an oven mitt.” Or in this person’s case, “The adult happy meal better come with a beer.”

No beer, but you could collect all four classic McDonald’s characters.


PBS Kids Debuts New Preschool Comedy Series 'Rosie's Rules!'


There’s a brand new fantastic preschool comedy series coming to a TV or screen near you, and it’s definitely one to watch and celebrate diverse families. Produced by 9 Story Media Group and Brown Bag Films, Rosie’s Rules follows the adventures of Rosie Fuentes, a curious 5-year-old girl living in suburban Texas. This Latina-led show portrays the loving dynamic of a Mexican-American family and aims to boost your kid’s school curriculum by teaching children concrete social studies lessons about how a community works. The goal is to help budding little civilians develop their awareness of themselves as individuals and as part of a larger society. Also, the show’s main character is absolutely the cutest.

As Rosie discovers the world beyond her close-knit family, the feel-good show also schools the audience in a winning mix of Mexican, Southwestern, and Midwestern art, traditions, food, and music. In Romper’s exclusive clip from this colorful 2D animated series coming to PBS Kids, everyone in the family is psyched when Uncle Steve comes for a surprise visit sporting his rockin’ goatee.

“Sorpresa,” exclaims Rosie’s cool aunt, Tia Margarita.

Our sweet little protagonist is at first a little confused to learn that her very own mother is also someone’s sister, in addition to being a parent. It’s a sweet moment that captures the awe of a little kid who actually can’t imagine that a mom is allowed to be anything else but a mom. “Well that’s new information,” the precocious protagonist announces as she soaks in some charming lessons on genealogy and identity.

“People can be more than one thing in a family,” Rosie’s mom explains. “And guess what? You’re more than one thing too,” she continues.“You’re a sister and a funny, sweet, silly daughter.”

“And a super awesome niece,” adds Uncle Steve.

“And the best cousin,” chimes in Rosie’s adorable primo.

As Rosie begins to understand the many facets to who she is, it’s of course time to cue up an awesome song! “I am more than one thing in my family,” Rosie sings the self-esteem boosting lyrics. “It makes me happy, it makes me: me. I am more than one thing in my family. There are so many things I can be.” The only thing sweeter than the music might be Rosie’s turquoise shortalls with pink starfish embellishment.

Check out Romper’s exclusive clip below!

Rosie’s Rules really achieves that delicate balance of a quality TV show that’s both entertaining and educational. Parents can feel good about screen time that explores a character’s multicultural identity and understands that representation matters. This new series is a great way to honor Hispanic heritage and follow along on a wonder-filled ride with one hilarious and relatable little girl.

Rosie’s Rules premieres on Oct. 3 on PBS Kids.


Can You Mix Breast Milk & Formula? Experts Explain


When it comes to feeding your baby, you have options. Some parents go the exclusively breastfeeding route, others do all formula, and some choose a mix of both. As long as your little one is fed, happy, and growing in a healthy way according to your pediatrician, any of those feeding methods are great. Serving up a mix of breast milk and formula is a popular option for parents who struggle with nursing or don’t produce enough breast milk to satisfy their baby, but it can also be a way to relieve some of the feeding pressure off mom.

At the end of the day, it doesn’t really matter why you’re choosing combination feeding, it just matters that you’re doing it the right way. Some parents might wonder about the logistics, like whether or not you can mix breast milk and formula in the same bottle, or if they should stay separate. If you want your baby to get the benefits of breast milk but find that you don’t have enough to fill a bottle, you might not know if you should hold off or top it off with some formula. You might also find that some pediatricians and experts have different answers. Here’s what you should know about mixing breast milk and formula before you try it.

What is combination feeding?

Combination feeding refers to feeding a baby both breast milk and formula. This can mean that you alternate between nursing and bottle feeding with formula or that you pump and bottle feed with both breast milk and formula or that you do a little bit of everything.

“Combination feeding is usually done when there are some problems with the baby, like if they’re not breastfeeding well enough alone to gain weight or mom has a low milk supply and needs to use formula to get an adequate amount to feed the baby,” explains Deedra Franke, registered nurse, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant at Mercy Medical Center. Of course, combination feeding can also be an option for mothers who are burnt out and need a reprieve from nursing or pumping.

Can you mix breast milk and formula in the same bottle?

When combination feeding, you might sometimes find that you don’t have enough breast milk to fill an entire bottle. In that instance, you have to make a decision: wait for the next pumping session to get enough breast milk for a full bottle, or add a little formula to get it where it needs to be. Is there a right or a wrong way? It depends who you ask.

“As a broad rule, I don’t recommend mixing them in the same bottle,” says board-certified pediatrician Maya Muñoz Mahmood, doctor of osteopathic medicine and Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. “For a typically growing and thriving baby, it’s just not necessary.” She adds that while there are some specific and individual situations where a pediatrician might recommend mixing, it’s not something she would say to do regularly.

There aren’t any health risks involved in mixing breast milk and formula, but doing so could result in wasted breast milk. “If a baby does not finish the bottle they already started, the remainder needs to be thrown out within an hour, which is the rule for prepared formula or breast milk mixed with formula,” Mahmood says. “So, any remaining breast milk that was mixed in would be ‘wasted.’ For many parents who are pumping, every ounce of breast milk feels precious. So, they’d rather not risk having to toss any leftover breast milk.”

That said, if you think your baby will finish the bottle, then there’s nothing really wrong with mixing. “I don’t mind if parents mix breastmilk and formula,” Franke says. “In a NICU setting, breast milk is frequently fortified with formula prior to feeding.”

If you choose not to mix them together but want or need to give both, Mahmood recommends to offer the available breast milk first, then offer the formula in a separate bottle if the baby need more.

How to mix breast milk and formula in the same bottle

If you want to mix breast milk and formula in the same bottle, Franke recommends doing so immediately before the feeding session. Don’t prepare it a few hours before and then let it sit. If you’re using powdered formula, mix it together on its own, then add it to the breast milk when the baby is ready to eat. If you’re using breast milk and ready-to-feed formula, you can mix them up right before baby eats.

How to mix and store breast milk and formula safely

In terms of safety, you really want to be aware of how long both the breast milk and the formula are sitting out. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that prepared formula at room temperature should be used within two hours of preparation or within one hour from when feeding begins. Breast milk can sit at room temperature for four hours. To be as safe as possible, mix the bottle right before feeding. Once breast milk is mixed with formula, that bottle only has two hours to be used.

Prepared formula can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, and open containers of ready-to-made formula can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. Freshly expressed breast milk can be in the fridge for a longer period of time — up to four days — while thawed frozen breast milk can be in the fridge for one hour. If you’re going to mix breast milk and formula, err on the side of caution and do not leave it in the refrigerator for more than 24 hours.

Warming up a mix of breast milk and formula can be confusing as well. Franke recommends warming the stored breast milk and formula individually before mixing them together to ensure that neither one gets too hot. You can do this by running the bottle under warm tap water or using a bottle warmer at the correct setting. “Baby bottles should never be microwaved due to a risk of scalding injuries,” Madmood warns. “When a bottle is microwaved, it heats unevenly, so there may be a ‘hot spot’ that can burn a baby's mouth.”

Where are no health risks to mixing breast milk and formula, it’s not an ideal option if there’s a chance your baby might not finish their bottle, since you don’t want to risk losing out on any breast milk. It can also make storage a little confusing if you mix them ahead of time. That said, if it makes your life easier and doesn’t seem to be bothering your baby, there’s nothing wrong with doing it — just be sure to keep CDC guidelines in mind for room temperature and refrigerator storage to ensure the bottle doesn’t go bad.

Experts:

Deedra Franke, Registered Nurse, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant at Mercy Medical Center

Maya Muñoz Mahmood, board-certified pediatrician, doctor of osteopathic medicine, and Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics


14 Top Gun Costumes For The Whole Family


Every Halloween, the year’s most popular movies, books, and TV shows inspire some of spooky season’s best costumes. This year, you’re probably going to see some some Margot Robbie-inspired Barbies, ‘80s outfits a la Stranger Things, and Top Gun costumes in every size imaginable (because even babies can be fighter pilots on Halloween). When your family hits the sidewalks to trick-or-treat, it’ll look like everyone at the flight academy is out for a stroll.

Top Gun, in all its 1980s glory, stars Tom Cruise as Maverick, a young naval pilot who is invited to train at TOPGUN, the nation’s toughest school for future fighter pilots. His best friend Goose attends as well, and Maverick soon meets his rival, Iceman, falls in love, and, well, plenty of other things we won’t spoil here.

Rebooted and released in 2022, Top Gun: Maverick tells the story of Mav after 30 years of service, heading back to TOPGUN to teach a new class of students for tougher missions than ever before. So, whether you’re obsessed with the original or your kids are now on board with all things Top Gun thanks to the new movie, here are the best Top Gun costumes for the whole family (*ahem,* flight crew).

We may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.

Maverick’s signature jacket

Maverick Bomber Jacket for Adults - Top Gun 2
Party City

Tom Cruise’s Lt. Pete Mitchell (usually known as Maverick) has plenty of iconic looks from Top Gun, but his leather bomber jacket with the fur collar and countless patches is arguably the coolest. If you want to cop his swag, you need this Maverick bomber jacket for adults from Party City. It comes in standard and plus sizes, has a faux fur trim, and functional pockets (where you can store your sunglasses).

A baby Top Gun costume

Baby Maverick Flight Suit Costume - Top Gun 2
Party City

Want to match your little wingman? The baby Maverick flight suit costume is part of Party City’s Top Gun line, which includes matching flight suits for the entire family. It’s printed with pockets and a faux zipper, and includes four sewn-on patches. It’s easy to take off and on your wiggly babe thanks to its rear hook-and-loop closure and snap leg closures.

A DIY stroller fighter jet

These two brothers, Leon and Elias, were dressed as Maverick and Goose for their very first Halloween, and mom Vania made sure they had the perfect ride. Whether you have one baby or twins, crafting their stroller into a plane is the cutest way to really sell their costume.

A Top Gun 2 women’s flight suit

Womens Maverick Flight Suit Costume Plus Size - Top Gun 2
Party City

Next up in Party City’s matching family costumes from Top Gun 2: the women’s Maverick flight suit costume, which is available in plus and standard sizes. It’s a polyknit jumpsuit designed to be form-fitting with functional shoulder pockets, sewn-on patches, and interchangeable name badges (one for Maverick, one for Rooster).

A men’s flight suit from Top Gun 2

Maverick Flight Suit Costume for Men - Top Gun 2
Party City

A classic flight suit and some Aviator sunglasses are all you need to look like Maverick about to step into his plane. The Maverick flight suit costume for men matches Party City’s other Top Gun 2 ensembles. It has all the same features as the women’s costume, plus an adjustable waistband.

The matching kids’ Top Gun costume

Maverick Flight Suit Costume for Kids - Top Gun 2
Party City

Last but not least, older siblings need this Maverick flight suit costume for kids from Party City. This costume has working shoulder and thigh pockets for stashing sunnies and candy. Pair them with some combat boots and your kid is ready for takeoff (aka trick-or-treating).

A DIY fighter jet

Dallas-based mom Bianca made her son, Drew, a Top Gun costume using a thrifted flight suit and patches. To really sell the look, the pair turned a cardboard box into a tough looking fighter jet to wear over his costume. Your child would love the costume too, and you’ll enjoy the time spent making it together.

The aspiring fighter pilot’s dream costume

Daring Fighter Pilot Costume for Kids
HalloweenCostumes.com

Not all flight suits are created equal, and for kids who are obsessed with planes, check out the daring fighter pilot costume for kids from HalloweenCostumes.com. It has plenty of pockets, a compass secured to the collar, embroidered patches, straps, and a faux parachute collar so your child looks like they really could take off any time.

A flight suit available in plus sizes

Top-Gun Women's Plus Size Flight Suit Costume
HalloweenCostumes.com

Want a flight suit that isn’t skin-tight? The Top Gun women's plus size flight suit costume from HalloweenCostumes.com has a more classic silhouette, but in a shiny, satin material that will be comfortable trick-or-treating or at a party. Don’t forget combat boots or heeled booties and a windblown hairdo to finish the look.

A Mav & Charlie Couple Costume

Leg Avenue Women's Top Gun Nylon Bomber Jacket With Interchangeable Name Badges
Amazon

Charlotte Blackwood is Maverick’s love interest from the first film, where they cross paths while she instructs at the academy. Whether you use clothing you already own or thrift and order a few key items, you and your partner could easily transform into this iconic duo.

Goose’s signature ensemble

Spooktacular Creations Men’s Flight Pilot Adult Costume
Amazon
Top Gun Pilot Costume Helmet Accessory
HalloweenCostumes.com

With the flight suit made for Goose and this helmet accessory, you’re all set to make a family member into the ultimate wingman. This would be so cute for a pair of brothers or even dad and son as they co-pilot through life together. (With less tragedy, hopefully.)

A kid-sized Maverick flight suit

Maverick Flight Suit Pilot Costume For Kids
Amazon

Perfect for the younger kid who might not get all of the movie’s adult themes but still really wants to be Maverick, there’s this Maverick flight suit costume for kids. It’s an easy to put on one-piece that should keep them nice and cozy while trick-or-treating.

A onesie costume for babies

Baby Flight Suit Crawler
Etsy

For the tiniest pilot, there’s this adorable baby flight suit in a romper ensemble. Super easy to put on and bonus, you can probably just put baby to bed after the Halloween festivities in their flight suit.

Must-have Aviators for your Top Gun costume

Mirror Sunglasses
Party City

If you’re in a pinch and don’t have time to make your own costume or order done, you can always toss on some Mirror Sunglasses from Party City with jeans and a wrist bandage. Then you can totally claim you’re Maverick, but from the volleyball scene.

Grab your Goose, Rooster, Iceman, and anyone else in your fam who needs to suit up for flight (or a motorcycle ride). And don’t forget to snap a pic of your epic Top Gun family Halloween costume.


15 Halloween 2022 Squishmallows To Collect


Like Beanie Babies in the ‘90s and Pokemon card packs in a pandemic, Squishmallows can be hard to get your hands on. Collectors know how to hunt these stuffies down though, timing trips to stores at the crack of dawn to catch the latest shipment, fresh off the delivery truck, as soon as it hits store shelves. (Or so I’ve heard.) Holiday releases are by far some of the most coveted picks, and the 2022 Halloween Squishmallows are no exception. From cuddly vampire cats to classic movie characters, there are several cute additions to add to your spooky squad this year.

Where to buy Halloween Squishmallows in 2022

You can buy Halloween Squishmallows both online and in stores at a variety of retailers nationwide. Big box stores like Walmart and Target usually have a large selection to choose from, while grocery stores like Kroger will carry a few of the seasonal selection. Claire’s and Five Below are also well-known for carrying holiday Squishmallows, and Costco is another spot to scope out seasonal varieties (specifically the oversized ones).

Like most things, you can also order Halloween Squishmallows on Amazon. The new 2022 Halloween Squishmallows collection is well-represented on the site, so it’s likely your best bet for finding the newer additions.

Whether you’re looking for a Jack Skellington Squishmallow to snuggle or covet a collection of Sanderson Sisters Squishmallows so that you can form a calming circle when Hocus Pocus 2 debuts, below are some of the best Halloween Squishmallows to snuggle up with this season.

We may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.

A cute ghost Squishmallow wearing a hat

Felize The Ghost 10" Squishmallow
Amazon

New for 2022, Felize the Ghost is a sweet and spunky member of the Squishmallow Halloween Squad. From the tip of her purple-and-orange-striped witch hat to the flip of her little ghost tail, Felize is a ghostly gal who’s here to make Halloween more fun than frightening. Her sweet little smile, squinty eyes, and rosy cheeks show just how happy she is that Halloween is here. But with the word “boo!” emblazoned across her body in bright purple and orange, you know she’s also up for some good, old-fashioned jump scares. This 10-inch Halloween Squishmallow is the perfect snuggle buddy.

A purple bat Squishmallow

Joldy The Purple Winking Bat 10" Squishmallow
Amazon

Some of the most popular Halloween Squishmallows releases in past years have been bats, but Joldy The Purple Winking Bat’s lavender coloring and adorable winking face set her apart from the rest of the bat pack. Sporting a cute cape, black belly, and little black wings, her flirty eyelashes and tiny vampire fangs are way more cute than scary. But don’t let her sweet face fool you, according to official Squishamllows lore (aka the Squishmallows Wiki fandom page), she loves to play pranks on her unsuspecting human friends. So if you add this trickster bat to your Halloween Squishmallows collection, just be sure to keep an eye (or both) out for Joldy’s spooky self.

A witches brew Halloween Squishmallow

Johanna The Witches Brew 10" Squishmallow
Amazon

A bubbling cauldron filled with green sludge hardly sounds appetizing, but somehow this Squishmallow looks inviting enough to make me want to take a sip. Johanna the Witches’ Brew is part of the 2022 Halloween Squishmallow squad, and according to her official description, her gray cauldron actually contains a hearty soup made with her favorite fall veggies (and apparently also some bat parts). The brew is kept warm by a bevy of orange and yellow flames flickering around the base, and sticking out of the top is the end of a wooden handle and the black wing of a bat. Johanna’s smiling face, rosy cheeks, and short lashes are so cute, I’m willing to overlook the fact that she’s brewing a bat.

A Halloween Squishmallow pumpkin wearing a top hat

Riba The Pumpkin With Hat 10" Squishmallow
Amazon

As far as Squishmallows are concerned, these plush pals don’t get much more Halloween-themed than Riba the Pumpkin. A bright orange jack-o’-lantern, Riba’s mouth is carved in a smiling zig-zag pattern, with a rounded triangle for a nose, and two black triangular eyes. Riba wears a bowler hat tipped to one side, which could technically be considered their Halloween costume. Part of the 2022 Halloween squad, Riba is ready for as much fun as you can stand to have this spooky season. Riba can join you for trick-or-treating, cuddle up close to keep you safe while you watch a scary movie, or simply sit on a shelf to decorate your home this Halloween.

A black cat Squishmallow wearing a witch hat

Calio Black Cat with Witch Hat 10" Squishmallow
Amazon

Whether you love black cats, love Halloween, or just want to collect every single Squishmallows Halloween squad member that you can possibly find, Calio the cat in her witch costume checks all the boxes. She’s carrying a traditional jack-o’-lantern bucket, ready to hit the streets in search of some chocolate candy — her favorite, according to her official Squishmallows description. Calio’s signature circle eyes, off-set whiskers, pink nose, and smiling face are too cute to be scary. Topped off with a bright purple witch hat, complete with a belt, this cool cat is a fun addition to any Halloween Squishmallows collection.

A set of Hocus Pocus Squishmallows

'Hocus Pocus' Witches Set 8" Squishmallows
Amazon

Is there a better way to celebrate the release of Hocus Pocus 2 than to curl up on the couch with miniature versions of the Sanderson Sisters? Initially released in 2021 as part of the Halloween Squad, this trio of Hocus Pocus Squishmallows are highly sought after. Popular with collectors of the plush toys and fans of the iconic film alike, Sarah, Mary, and Winifred in Squishmallow form can be found through various online retailers and re-sale sites both individually and as a complete set. Third party sellers on sites like Amazon and Ebay are you best bet for finding the three sisters together. Though they’re some of the priciest Halloween Squishmallows, these witches are worth it.

A set of Squishmallow characters from The Nightmare Before Christmas

Set of 4 'The Nightmare Before Christmas' 5" Squishmallows
Owl And Goose Gifts

What’s this? What’s this? It’s Jack Skellington, Sally, Zero, and Oogie Boogie together in Squishmallow form. Initially released as part of the 2021 Halloween Squad, these Squishmallows are miniature replicas of the main characters from the 1993 Tim Burton classic, The Nightmare Before Christmas. From Jack’s bat tie and Sally’s dress down to the stitching on Oogie Boogie’s mouth and Zero’s pumpkin nose, they’re the cutest, cuddliest versions of each character. Though you can find each character separately in various sizes across the web, family-owned toy store, Owl and Goose Gifts has a set of four 5-inch Squishmallows from The Nightmare Before Christmas squad available to buy together.

Lock, Shock, & Barrel Squishmallows from The Nightmare Before Christmas

Lock, Shock, & Barrel 8" Squishmallows
Amazon

Fans of the classic Disney film will automatically recognize this trio of “Halloween’s finest trick-or-treaters” (according to Jack Skellington, anyway), collectively known as “Boogie’s Boys.” Yes, Lock, Shock, and Barrel are the three mischievous henchmen who serve Oogie Boogie and kidnap “Sandy Claws” in the movie. As Squishmallows, Lock, Shock, and Barrel are much cuter than they appear on screen. With pink, red, orange, and turquoise accents, they look less ready to wreak havoc on your home this Halloween and more like they should just join you with a bowl of popcorn while you re-watch The Nightmare Before Christmas for the thousandth time.

A cat vampire Squishmallow

Tally The Cat Vampire 8" Squihsmallow
Amazon

Tally the Tabby Cat is a classic Squishmallows pet, first released in 2018. As part of the 2022 Halloween Squishmallows squad, the squishy tabby has transformed into Tally the Cat Vampire, a not-so-vicious creature that’s every bit as lovable in her Halloween costume as she is without it. With a bright red bowtie at the neck, purple vest with gold buttons, black bottoms, and a red and black cape, Tabby looks every bit the part of a creepy vampire. Though her signature grin sports some faux vampire fangs, in her costume you can still see the dark stripes on top of her head, perky ears, fluffy gray body, and cute kitty whiskers that Tally is known for.

A Halloween Squishmallow owl in a mummy costume

Winston The Mummy Owl 8" Squishmallow
Amazon

Winston, the teal owl from the Squishmallows adventure squad, is best known for his cute triangular nose, wide eyes, and interest in cooking. Winston the Mummy Owl is part of the 2021 Squishmallows Halloween squad, but is still available to order from various online retailers for the 2022 Halloween season. Poking out of the top of his hastily-wrapped DIY mummy costume are his two teal ears and part of his feathery front. This 8-inch Squishmallow is the perfect size for snuggling, but also makes a cute companion for anyone wearing a mummy costume — homemade or otherwise — to trick-or-treat in this Halloween.

A Squishmallow cat wearing a pumpkin costume

Pumpkin Cat 8" Squishmallow
Walmart

Another version of Calio the Cat, available as part of the 2022 Halloween Squishmallows squad is the cute kitten in a pumpkin costume. Her face peeks out from inside the pumpkin costume’s bright orange hull with her wide eyes, upturned mouth, pink nose, and adorable whiskers sticking out. On top, you can see Calio’s black, triangular ears poking out from either side of a green pumpkin stem topper. She is all set for a fun night of tricks and treats! There was also a version of Calio in her pumpkin costume produced with a green stem made from shimmery fabric, but that particular Halloween Squishmallow edition is incredibly rare.

A Minnie Mouse Squishmallow in a witch Halloween costume

Minnie Mouse Witch 8" Squishmallow
Amazon

Anything affiliated with Disney is pretty much destined to become a collectible, especially in the form of one of the more iconic characters. This is particularly true when paired with another item that collectors go gaga over, like Halloween Squishmallows. So, it makes sense that the Minnie Mouse Witch is one of the most popular Squishmallows you can get for Halloween. Released in 2021, Minnie is ready to trick-or-treat in a purple witch costume, complete with a cape that’s fastened in the center with a vampire accessory. Her purple witch hat is propped up over one ear, and she’s ready to collect as much candy as possible.

An owl Squishmallow wearing a vampire costume

Bright Owl Dracula 8" Squishmallow
Walmart

Who knew vampires could be this cute? Ellette is a vampire owl who is part of the 2022 Squishmallows Halloween squad. At just 5 inches, he’s a tiny little hooter, but he’s just right for snuggling up with on October 31. Ellette has a bright orange body with white markings, big, round eyes, and a small, yellow beak. Dressed in his Halloween costume, he sports a green vest with orange buttons, black bottoms, a bright purple bow-tie, and a black cape that flows out behind him. His fierce, but friendly vampire look is topped off with purple triangular tufts atop his head.

A Squishmallow treat pail shaped like a bat

Emily the Bat 12" Squishmallow Treat Pail
Squishmallows

New for 2022, Squishmallows released several plush treat pails shaped like some of the most beloved Halloween squad members from previous years. Emily the Bat was originally part of the 2020 Squishmallows Halloween squad, and returned in 2021 sitting inside of a smiling, orange jack-o’-lantern with her little black bat wings poking out of the top. For 2022, you can get a snuggly Emily the Bat Squishmallow treat pail to hold all of your candy or fill with smaller versions of your favorite stuffed Halloween friends. The pails are 12 inches tall and have a plush handle, so they’re perfectly comfortable for carrying around the neighborhood.

An owl-shaped Squishmallow treat pail

Holly the Owl 12" Squishmallow Treat Pail
Squishmallows

Another Squishmallows pet that can double as a carrying case for candy this Halloween is the Holly the Owl treat pail. Holly was one of the original eight Squishmallows released in 2017, and she’s been re-released in various Halloween squads wearing different costumes in years since. This version of the lavender owl sports a black witch hat with a a gold belt and purple buckle around it, as well as a pair of black bat wings. Carry this Holly the Owl treat pail around by her plush purple handle and this Halloween is sure to be a real hoot with her by your side.

If history is any indication, these Halloween Squishmallows will fly off store shelves faster than a witch on her broomstick. So get off your haunted haunches and grab your favorites before they’re gone!


Thursday, September 29, 2022

10 Kids’ Shows With Halloween Episodes To Watch This Spooky Season


Halloween is right around the corner and there are plenty of spooky, fun episodes and specials to be watched! Whether you’re looking to enjoy a family-friendly fright fest or if your little one just likes celebrating ghouls and goblins all year long, we have a list of not-so-scary Halloween episodes from a few popular kids’ shows like Doc McStuffins, Vampirina, The Proud Family, Teen Titans, and more.

These episodes have just enough chills and giggles to keep kids sleeping throughout the night with the lights off, and — bonus! — in their own rooms. In other words, you won’t find anything nightmarish from the episodes featured on this list. But what you will find is a family reunion of vampires, a pet who can morph into a skeleton or pumpkin, a teen superhero who has to battle a grumpy ghost to save her family, and our favorite Disney characters dressed like a few of our favorite Toy Story ones.

When a movie is just too long to watch, here are 10 kid-friendly Halloween episodes you can watch with the lights on — and a bowl of candy corn, of course.

Doc McStuffins: “Hallie Halloween”

In Season 2, Episode 18, it’s Halloween night and Hallie takes her toys out trick-or-treating. But since her toys are magical and can move and talk, she warns them to not do either, since everyone will be dressed up, and let’s face it, talking toys can freak people out! Everyone is enjoying the night until the toys see someone dressed up like Hallie. The wind blows Hallie’s hat away and Doc runs after it. Meanwhile, Hallie wanders off to get a better look at the girl dressed like her and ends up getting separated from Doc and the rest of the group, and she ends up getting spooked by kids’ scarier costumes. The lesson: stay with your trick-or-treat group and don’t wander off. Also, watch the wind to avoid your hat from flying away!

Other Doc McStuffins Halloween episodes to check out include “Boo-Hoo to You!” (Season 1, Episode 23) and “Hide and Eek!” (Season 2, Episode 25).

Watch Doc McStuffins on Disney+, Disney Now, and Hulu.

Super Why!: “The Ghost Who Was Afraid of Halloween”

Super Why! is a PBS Kids show and in this particular episode, the town of Storybrook Village is celebrating Halloween. But Pig is so frightened that he won't go trick or treating with his friends, according to the episode’s synopsis. The Super Readers also pay a storybook visit to Little Ghost, who's a bit of a scaredy cat himself. Yes, it's a ghost who is also afraid of Halloween! But Little Ghost ends up teaching everyone more about Halloween and the spooky season. SuperWhy! is a preschool series that focused on building kids’ literacy skills; it aired from 2007 to 2016.

Watch Super Why! on YouTube and PBS Kids.

Sid the Science Kid: “Halloween Spooky Science Special”

This Halloween episode from Sid the Science Kid over 5 million views on YouTube, and it’s no surprise why. “It's Halloween time and Sid and his friends have dressed up in the spookiest and scariest costumes possible. Sid is a bat with big fangs. May is a spooky black cat. Gabriela is a furry, yucky spider. And Gerald is a super spooky skeleton that goes boo! Susie (dressed as a silly mad scientist) loves their costumes, and helps the kids discover that Halloween can be spooky and scientific!” the episode’s synopsis reads. “The kids investigate how bats are helpful creatures that catch mosquitoes, spiders are expert engineer web builders, cats are leaping aerial acrobats, and skeletons help hold up our body frames! At the Halloween party, the kids also investigate how to make icky, gooey green slime. Susie then ends the day with a special ‘Halloween Parade’ song so the kids can march around and show off their spooky and scientific costumes!”

Watch Sid the Science Kid on YouTube.

The Proud Family: “A Hero for Halloween”

Penny Proud saves her family and the day in this Proud Family Halloween special. Everyone is in the spooky spirit and Penny is forced to serve her dad’s Scary Snax to trick-or-treaters. But something incredible happens when she bites one of her father’s snacks, she develops superpowers. And it’s just in time to thwart a major crime spree by the Gross Sisters. She also needs to protect her family from the wrath of a miserable, cranky ghost named Krebs, a very rich man who passed away without friends or family in their house. To add insult to injury, he’s forced to watch the Proud Family move into his former home and enjoy the very things he never had.

Watch The Proud Family on Disney+.

Teen Titans Go: “Caramel Apples / Halloween”

In Season 2, Episode 9 of Teen Titans Go!, which is based on DC Comics for Cartoon Network, one of the superheroes, Raven, tries to return the spirit of Halloween to the holiday. Another Halloween episode titled “Scary Figure Dance” follows the Titans as they throw a Halloween party but is interrupted by the Hive Five robbing a candy factory. And after the battle hits a major shift, very strange things start happening around H.I.V.E. Tower. In the end, both the Titans and HIVE have a good time and have the best Halloween ever.

Watch Teen Titans Go on Cartoon Network and Hulu.

My Magic Pet Morphle: “My Magic Halloween with Mila and Morphle”

In this animated series, Morphle is scared when the pirates steal everyone's candy. He ends up morphs into all sorts of spooky characters, including skeletons and pumpkins. There are dinosaurs, cars, dump trucks, cats, and dogs. My Magic Pet Morphle is a British animated children's television series created in 2011 by Dutch animator Arthur van Merwijk. The children’s show is centered around a girl named Mila and her magic pet Morphle, who can transform his appearance at Mila's will. It’s a good one for tots and teaches themes of friendship, problem-solving, and creativity.

Watch My Magic Pet Morphle on Apple TV and Hulu.

Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood: “Katerina's Costume / Dress-Up Day”

In the Season 4 premiere, Daniel and Katerina make their costumes for Dress-Up Day for Miss Elaina's Museum-Go-Round. Dress-Up Day is a time everyone celebrates at the annual Main Street parade and it also happens to be around Halloween! Daniel and Miss Elaina know what they want to be but Katerina is having a hard time with her costume. Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood is an animated kids series about a preschool tiger with a theme song that will remind you of the classic Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood.

Watch Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood’s on PBS Kids and Apple TV.

Pinky and the Brain: “A Pinky & the Brain Halloween”

This special Halloween episode of the Warner Bros. cartoon takes a bit of a sinister, comedic turn. Pinky sells his soul to the devil so that the Brain can take over the world. The Brain then has to challenge the devil to get Pinky's soul back. In the end, the two learn any deal with the guy down below isn’t worth the trouble or the torture, even for world dominion. Pinky and the Brain is the brainchild of creators Tom Ruegger and Steven Spielberg. It ran for four seasons, from 1995, until it was canceled in 1998.

Watch Pinky and the Brain on YouTube, Hulu, and Apple TV.

Vampirina: “Hauntleyween/Frankenflower”

Vampirina has several Halloween episodes you can sink your fangs into this spooky season. One of the very first ones is in Season 1, Episode 24, titled “Hauntleyween.” In it, Vee is preparing her family for their first Halloween together. She invites them from Transylvania to celebrate the holiday together in Pennsylvania. But being around all of those humans has the family afraid that the town will find out their secret. In the same special, titled “Frankenflower,” Vee tries to bring a dead flower back to life.

Other Vampirina episodes include:

  • Season 2, Episode 15a: "Trick or Treaters"
  • Season 2, Episode 16a: "Jumpin' Jack-o-Lanterns"
  • Season 3, Episode 5a: "Double Double Halloween Trouble"

Watch Vampirina on Disney+ and Apple TV+.

Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: “Mickey’s Treat”

Season 1, Episode 17 brings together the whole Mickey Mouse gang, also known as the “Sensational Six,” in a special, spooky cute episode. Mickey and his friends are rushing to make it in time to the Halloween party hosted by Pete, which takes place at the Trick or Treat Tower. But no one has ever come to Pete’s party before. To help him, they get a few things to spice up the party, including a Jack O'Lantern. In this episode, Donald and Daisy dressed as a cowboy and Little Bo Peep, which is very reminiscent of Woody and Bo Peep from Toy Story. Mickey dresses up as a magician, Minnie is a witch and Goofy is a knight.

Watch Mickey Mouse Clubhouse on Disney+ and YouTube.

Happy watching!


Every State's Favorite Halloween Kids' Movie In 2022


From Hocus Pocus to Halloweentown, your favorite Halloween movie may be based on the state you live in, new data has revealed. A recently released report on each state’s most-searched favorite spooky, Halloween kids’ movies has found what families across the country will most likely be watching this October.

To identify each state’s most-Googled spooky movie, the team at USDish put together a list of kids’ Halloween movies rated PG or G, using an SEO firm to find the movies that had the highest keyword search ranking. From there, the company inputted the movie titles into Google Trends to find each state’s most searched movie. Here’s what the fun report found.

Halloween movies that made the list.

The top contender was 2002’s Scooby-Doo movie, which topped the list as the most-searched movie in 13 states. (Its newest version, SCOOB! got mixed reactions on Rotten Tomatoes and didn’t make the list.)

In second place was Tim Burton’s Coraline, which was found to be popular in 11 states. Classics Ghostbusters and Beetlejuice followed in third and fourth place. Other movies on the list included Hocus Pocus, which of course is a big hit in Massachusetts; Coco, which was found to be the top pick in New Mexico; ET and Halloweentown, which is Oregon’s top movie and fitting since the original movie was filmed in St. Helens, according to the report. Adam Sandler’s Hotel Transylvania also made the list. Finally, Gremlins was the least favorite movie overall.

Below is the entire list by state:

  • Alabama: Scooby-Doo
  • Alaska: Scooby-Doo
  • Arizona: Coraline
  • Arkansas: Beetlejuice
  • California: Coraline
  • Colorado: Beetlejuice
  • Connecticut: Hocus Pocus
  • Delaware: Beetlejuice
  • District of Columbia: The Witches
  • Florida: ET
  • Georgia: Coraline
  • Hawaii: ET
  • Idaho: Ghostbusters
  • Illinois: Coraline
  • Indiana: Scooby-Doo
  • Iowa: Scooby-Doo
  • Kansas: Scooby-Doo
  • Kentucky: Coraline
  • Louisiana: Scooby-Doo
  • Maine: ET
  • Maryland: ET
  • Massachusetts: Hocus Pocus
  • Michigan: Scooby-Doo
  • Minnesota: Scooby-Doo
  • Mississippi: Scooby-Doo
  • Missouri: Ghostbusters
  • Montana: The Addams Family
  • Nebraska: Scooby-Doo
  • Nevada: Coraline
  • New Hampshire: Ghostbusters
  • New Jersey: Coraline
  • New Mexico: Coco
  • New York: Coraline
  • North Carolina: Scooby-Doo
  • North Dakota: Gremlins
  • Ohio: Scooby-Doo
  • Oklahoma: Ghostbusters
  • Oregon: Halloweentown
  • Pennsylvania: Ghostbusters
  • Rhode Island: Hocus Pocus
  • South Carolina: Scooby-Doo
  • South Dakota: Beetlejuice
  • Tennessee: Ghostbusters
  • Texas: Coco
  • Utah: Coraline
  • Vermont: Beetlejuice
  • Virginia: Ghostbusters
  • Washington: Coraline
  • West Virginia: Hocus Pocus
  • Wisconsin: Ghostbusters
  • Wyoming: Hotel Transylvania

Where can you watch some of these movies?

Plenty of place! You can watch Scooby-Doo on Amazon Prime and HBO Max. Coraline, Coco, Halloweentown, and Hocus Pocus (and Hocus Pocus 2) are available on Disney+. The Witches, both the original 1990 and 2020 reboot, are available on Amazon Prime. The Addams Family is on Paramount+. The 2019 animated remake and The Addams Family 2 on Amazon Prime and Paramount+.

There are, of course, many other family-friendly Halloween movies that are not too scary for the kids on Netflix and HBO Max that you can stream this year. So there’s no excuse this Halloween season for the kids not to be occupied!