parenting tips Archive

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A Fishy Valentine

So, last year Henry picked Rocket Valentines to create … this year we perused my Valentine Pinterest board together and he decided on a pretty fishy one from Tammy Mitchell Photography …  Here’s our version … Super simple … sandwich baggie

“You’re A Blast!” Rocket Valentine

I made this for Henry to give away last year at his preschool’s Valentine party.  I found a bunch of great Valentine ideas on the Family Fun website and Henry picked this one as his favorite. The instructions said to use

Snowman Sundae

Here’s a fun and simple treat!  A Snowman sundae … 3 small scoops of vanilla ice cream mini chocolate chips for eyes, mouth, & buttons one piece of candy corn for the nose 2 toothpicks for the arms ENJOY!

Parenting: It’s hard … and wonderful

 “The days are long, but the years are short.” “Parenting isn’t for the weak.” “Cleaning the house while the kids are home is like shoveling when it’s still snowing!” “Don’t you wish kids came with an instruction manual?” “Shouldn’t parents have

A Simple Snack … or how to get kids to eat yogurt

My kids have always loved yogurt.  Probably because it was one of the first “solid” foods they were introduced to.  But we make eating yogurt even more fun sometimes by adding sprinkles.  Because sprinkles make everything taste better! Have you tried

Trusting Our Parental Instincts

One of the hardest parts of being a parent is the constant onslaught of commentary from relatives, friends, total strangers, and the media on how WE should be a parent.  As if we didn’t second-guess ourself almost every step of the

Craft Closet Essentials

We moved into our new house in October (2011) and along with MANY things to be excited about in our new home was a great space for a craft closet.  But with all the craziness that comes along with moving, having

Our Christmas Elf’s Adventures, Week 4, 2011

 Day 21:  Our Christmas elf, Brief, brings the kids a note with a gift to celebrate the first day of Winter Break vacation.  The note stated, “Happy Winter Break.  Please plant these magic seeds in the marshmallow snow … and see

Developmentally Appropriate Toys for children 2 – 5 years

This is SUCH a fun age to buy for.  Kids are finally mastering fine and gross motor skills … as well as the ability for imaginary play.  Here are some ideas for developmentally appropriate toys for children 2 – 5 years

Favorite Children’s Books: Series and Authors to Collect

In wanting to post a lot of great gift ideas for kids this month I want to include of book ideas … in looking through our books I realized that many of our favorites come in a series or are all

Developmentally Appropriate Toys for children 1 to 2 years

One year olds are busy exploring their world, gaining fine and gross motor skills, and learning that they can control their environment (cause and effect. So, how about toys for that 1 to 2 year old?  Here are some of my

My Christmas Journal: One of my most prized possessions

In 1998 my mom got me a Christmas Journal to record each Christmas. I LOVE THIS BOOK.  I am using it now to prepare for Christmas for the 13th year.  It is EXTREMELY helpful to keep track of Christmas card and