Month: June 2019

How to Have a Sane Summer with Your Kids

summer-fun-sunshine

Summer’s upon us. School’s out and you’re left wondering, what in the world do I do with my kids? If you’ve already sent your kids off to summer camp or summer school – congrats. But for those who are left with kids languishing lavishly like kings and queens on the couch playing video games and chomping on chips, I’m here to whisper to you…I feel you.

Summer is the epitome of joy for kids, or at least, school aged kids. It’s the time when they can wake up later than usual, lounge around all day if they wanted to, and not have to worry about homework. But if you’re a parent, then you know it’s also months of having bored kids fighting and arguing with you and/or their siblings and basically making you wish you never had children – I jest here, really. But never fear! I’ve collected some ideas from experts, bloggers, and friends on how to have a super sane summer this year so that you’ll want to experience it all over again next summer.

TRAVELING WITH KIDS:

Summer time is really the best time to travel with your children. They’re not in school and the weather is usually pretty decent no matter where you go. Depending on the amount of time you want to be on your trip, you can plan for a few days, a week, or even just the weekend. Regardless of the amount of time, plan ahead a bit so that you can avoid any snafus that might happen.

*** National parks are tons of fun for both kids and adults. They are great places to learn about how nature works and offer a breath of visual beauty. You can find national parks in every state and some offer cabins or lodges you can stay at.  Here are some kid-friendly parks you can visit:

Big Bend National Park – TX

What to See & Do: Designated as one of the darkest places in the country, it’s one of the best places to stargaze with your kids. It’s also filled with fossils—be sure to take your dino enthusiast to the Fossil Discovery Exhibit. There’s also plenty of hiking opportunities for families: some of the best trails for kids include the Window View, the Basin Loop, the Rio Grande Village Nature Trail and for older kids, the Lost Mine Trail is worth the trek. One of the most popular things to do in Big Bend, however, is to float the Rio Grande. There are several outfitters that offer easy, half-day floats, like this Madera to Grassy Banks option from Big Bend River Tours, which are perfect for families with young children.

Tips & When to Go: Cell service can be spotty, but free, public WiFi is available at the Panther Junction Visitor Center, the Chisos Mountains Lodge, and the Rio Grande Village Store. The best time to go is Sept.-May, as it gets very hot in the summer.

Online: nps.gov/bibe

Yosemite National Park – CA

Famed for its granite domes and ancient sequoia trees, Yosemite is a gold mine for families.

Things to See & Do: Filled with hundreds of miles of hiking trails, two favorites include the Tuolomne Grove Nature Trail because you are rewarded with some massive Giant Sequoias, including the one you can walk through and the Mist Trail as you have the opportunity to see two waterfalls. Make sure you set aside some time to spend exploring Yosemite Village. Grab some lunch and souvenirs at the gift shop (it is huge—perfect to stock up on everything from hot cocoa to wine to grilling supplies). Take a break to watch the Spirit of Yosemite film at the visitor center to give the kids all the background info on Yosemite and how it came to be a national park.

The Yosemite Museum has hands-on exhibits where kids can learn all about the cultural history of Yosemite’s native Miwok and Paiute people from 1850 to the present. If you are lucky, you may even be able to see traditional skills presented by historians. Outside you can walk through a replica Miwok village to see how they lived.

Tips & When to Go: The park is open year-round, with seasonal activities, but May and Sep. are when it’s less crowded.

Online: https://www.yosemite.com/

Zion National Park, UT

Sandstone cliffs, slot canyons and animal wildlife are all part of the wonder of Zion National Park in Utah. You’ll want to give yourselves plenty of time at this scenic destination to take it all in.

Things to See & Do: Try a kid-friendly hike, like The Grotto Trail, Weeping Rock Trail or the Emerald Pool trail. While at the Emerald Pool trail, be sure to check out the gorgeous waterfall views. For a fun way for families to learn more about Zion together, head over to the Nature Center. Daily from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, youth programs specifically for children and families are offered, and last 30-45 minutes, so they’re just the right length for your mini explorers.

Tips & When to Go: Zion National Park is open year-round. Some services or facilities may have limited hours at various times of the year.

Online: nps.gov/zion

*** Local aquariums and museums are always a fun idea for kids and families. Aquariums offer an insight into how marine animals live and if you’re lucky enough to live close to the ocean, check out an aquarium with an open vista of the bay. Museums offer a glance into the history of our ancestors or the past of other cultures. There are lots of museums and aquariums tailored specifically for kids.

*** Pick-Your-Own Farms are family owned farms where you get the opportunity to pick fresh fruits and vegetables of the season. You can find small farms where the orchards contain between 20-30 trees or larger farms where you’d have to ride a wagon to cover the entire farm. For a listing of Pick-Your-Own Farms check out the listings here: https://pickyourown.farm/

STAYING AT HOME:

If you’re looking for an easy stay at home project or you’re saving money for next summer’s big trip, then there are tons of creative and entertaining activities for kids to do at home.

*** Art projects are a never-ending line of activities that kids of any age can do. All you need are the typical art supplies such as paint, glue, scratch paper or construction paper, color markers, beads, and anything you have laying around the house that you can turn into an environmentally friendly art project. Check out Michaels and Martha Stewart sites: https://www.michaels.com/projects/kids-crafts/815811845 and https://www.marthastewart.com/1502457/kids-crafts

*** Backyard/Front yard fun for those who want to play outside their house with their neighbor friends or by themselves. You can get your kids a kiddie size pool, sidewalk chalk, or lightweight sport games such as Ring Toss, Softball, and Skateboards. Just be sure to keep an eye out for any passing cars that are not aware of kids on the street.

*** Living Room Forte was always a fun adventure for when I was younger. I used to build a living room forte or in my bedroom and sometimes invite my best friend over to hang out with me. For me, it was like going camping, without the mosquitoes and canned food. Make it extra fun by packing your kids a brown bag of food so that they can stay inside their forte for as long as they want. Give them books, flashlights, and some pillows and their set to go for a day or so! Fortes are a great little “escape” for kids, and if you’re inclined to join in on the fun, all the better!

AROUND THE TOWN:

*** Cooking classes are great for kids who want to try something new and love to experiment with food. Typically the age to start cooking classes is around 5 or 6 years old as they might need to handle knives and utensils. You can find cooking classes offered at larger stores such as Williams Sonoma, Home Depot, Whole Foods Market, and Sur La Table.

***Art classes can be for a day or even a month long. There are art classes offered for children at your local community center, local colleges, or even art studios that give art lessons. Just do a search online for art classes for kids and you’ll find some great ones.

*** Beaches are a tried and true enjoyment for children. Depending on the age, build a small, enclosed sand pool for younger children to play in and keep them far from the shore. For older kids, bring along a couple of their friends so that they can explore the beach area as a group. Just be sure to bring plenty of sun block and water.

Whatever plans or non plans you have this summer, keep in mind that a bored child is also a child that can drive you nuts! 🙂 Give them plenty of activities to choose from or plan a trip with some suggestions from them. No matter what your plans are this summer, remember that traveling and spending quality time with your children builds great rapport while also giving them a sense of freedom and joy.

*Travel sites provided by redtri.com

Disclaimer: The product(s)were sent to the author for review by the manufacturer/PR. All reviews on “Happymomblogger” remain unbiased and unpaid and are the sole decision of the author. The opinions of these product(s) were not influenced in any way, shape, or form. As always, please read the ingredients carefully when trying new products.

Please read the labels and ingredients carefully and follow all manufacturer’s instructions (if any). The products selected for the giveaway were generously donated by the companies/PR to help readers learn more about their products. The winner’s choice in using/consuming these products are entirely up to the winner and will not hold the author and her family liable nor the companies/PR liable. These products are made with non-toxic ingredients but always be safe with what you use and consume.

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Earth Friendly Father’s Day

With Father’s Day just around the corner, are you wondering how to dedicate the special day to your dad? Mother’s Day is super special, but what about those dads out there, or father figures? I have to admit that my husband not so blatantly wondered when was Father’s Day when we were celebrating Mother’s Day. Like he didn’t know. But, like many father’s out there, they don’t always get the accolade or appreciation that they so justly deserve.

Whether you’re celebrating with your dad, your husband, or any other father figures, let’s also make it an earth friendly kind of day. After all, children need to learn from both their parents on how to be stewards of our planet. Below I’ve highlighted some thoughtful and easy gift ideas as well as some unique anecdotes about fathers:

  • Kids cook for Father’s Day – Just like Mother’s Day, we all hoped our kids woke up at the crack of dawn to prepare a delicious and wholesome breakfast for us…right? Well, the same could be said for Father’s day. Get your kids ready for a home cooked meal for daddy and see the bright smile on his face when he’s treated like the King of the castle. It could be anything from a sweet treat like cookies and cake, or a delicious savory snack mix like the one here: https://www.marthastewart.com/1503375/best-snack-recipes?slide=3608548, or even a simple yet elegant dinner such as burger sliders and homemade biscuits and gravy. Whatever meal your child plans, just make sure it’s something that their dad enjoys.

  • Crafts – who doesn’t cherish a craft made by their child? This Father’s Day, have your kids make a special craft for their dad. Try making a paper crown that dad can wear throughout the day, or handmade cards made from scratch paper or construction paper, or a bookmark with your child’s photo. Put your creativity to use and you’ll find lots of cool and easy crafts to make for your dad.

  • Enjoy nature – take a long and leisure walk with dad. If you have a park nearby, take the morning or early evening to enjoy a walk around the park. You can also go on trails with your bicycles or feet and take a small snack so you can enjoy the day with your dad.

  • Chores around the house – dads can take a break on Father’s Day by relaxing and enjoying their day. Have your kids do some simple chores around the house that are usually assigned to dads. Depending on the age, your kids can wash the car, take out the garbage, clean the deck, or anything that you think your kids can do. Dad will appreciate the thought!

  • Artwork – take dad to a paint-your-own ceramics store or a one day art class. Art is quite relaxing and fun when you’re doing it with your loved ones. They can even take home their special cup or plate and artwork to remember the day forever.

  • Museums – museums can last all day or a couple of hours. There are many wonderful museums for all ages in practically every state you live in. Just search up “museums” in your website browser and turn on locations and some great ideas will pop up.

  • Flower bouquet – who says only women enjoy flowers?! My husband always loves it when I put fresh flowers from our garden around the house. Flowers are calming and inspiring and a wonderful gift for fathers! If you have a garden, pick some from your yard and put them in vases or homemade vase-jars.

And here are some inspirational notes for Father’s Day:

1. I’ll always be here for you, son.
Anyone can be a father, but it takes someone special to be a dad. Reminding your son that you always are available to him and mindful of his needs will go a long way in establishing and building trust over time. Mindful parentingmeans being present in the moment and aware of what’s happening. Modeling positive, supportive behavior while your son is young will show him that good men are reliable and responsible.

2. Treat others with compassion and empathy.
The Golden Rule may be a simple principle to follow, but teaching empathy can provide a deeper framework for how people should behave regardless of circumstance. Fostering empathy can help young boys to find commonalities between themselves and others who are seemingly different—and encourages them to positively and proactively think about and care for others.

3. Winning is great, but losing with grace and humility is just as important.
Good sportsmanship is a beneficial trait that goes well beyond what happens on the playing field. By teaching our sons how to win and lose with dignity, we’re giving them strong interpersonal relationship skills that will serve them well in many other aspects of their lives besides sports. Telling boys that the main point of competition is to have fun will alleviate the feeling of needing to win at any cost, allow them to enjoy themselves, and play for the sake of fun.

4. Surround yourself with people who you admire.
Dads can’t always pick our son’s friends, but we can definitely encourage them to choose their friendships wisely. Find out who your son admires and who his heroes are, and you’ll quickly discover the kinds of people he wants to emulate. Real friendships are fundamental in early childhood development, so teaching our sons how to find good friends and to be a good friend will help guide him in the right direction.

5. Never make an important decision on an empty stomach.
Over the course of a young boy’s life, he’ll have to make many important decisions. These decisions are just warm-ups to the various big decisions that he’ll have to make as a man, and every dad knows that important decisions should never be made on an empty stomach. There’s science to explain why people become grumpy or have poorer judgment when they are hungry. Teach your son to have a full belly before making any major life decisions.

6. It’s OK to play with dolls.
Or dress up as Beyoncé. Or sing like Beyoncé. Or dance like Beyoncé. By the time most boys are five years old, they’ve already learned lots of things that perpetuate toxic masculinity. Break the cycle by letting your son know that there are no such things as “girls-only toys” or “girls-only behaviors.” Instead, teach your son that there’s more than one way to be a man.

7. What was the best part of your day?
At the end of a long day of work and school, many dads will simply ask our sons, “How was your day?” And the typical response is a bluntly delivered, “Fine.” Rather than try to start a conversation with a generic question, be specific. Avoid questions that can be answered with a single word. As our sons get older—particularly as they enter their tween and teen years—they may be less inclined to volunteer information about what’s happening in their lives. Asking pointed questions will help tease out what’s really going on and what’s really on their minds.

8. I can teach you how to throw a punch, but never start a fight … and always know when to walk away.
It’s a dad’s duty to teach our sons when to stand their ground and when to walk away. Establishing a baseline that it’s never appropriate to hurt others for no reason is a critical, essential first step.

9. I’m so lucky that I get to be your dad.
And while you’re at it, tell your son that you love him every day, and give him lots of hugs and kisses, especially while he’s still young so that he gets used to receiving affection from (and giving it to) his old man.

So this Father’s Day, make it extra special for your dad or the father figures in your life!

 

Disclaimer: The product(s)were sent to the author for review by the manufacturer/PR. All reviews on “Happymomblogger” remain unbiased and unpaid and are the sole decision of the author. The opinions of these product(s) were not influenced in any way, shape, or form. As always, please read the ingredients carefully when trying new products.

Please read the labels and ingredients carefully and follow all manufacturer’s instructions (if any). The products selected for the giveaway were generously donated by the companies/PR to help readers learn more about their products. The winner’s choice in using/consuming these products are entirely up to the winner and will not hold the author and her family liable nor the companies/PR liable. These products are made with non-toxic ingredients but always be safe with what you use and consume.

http://www.topmommyblogs.com/blogs/in.php?id=storm

 

 

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