Moms Check In – Does Your Child Do Chores? #MomsCheckIn

Moms Check In 1 Topic 5 moms  (1)

I am so excited to share with you a new series we have been working on! Welcome to Moms Check In! Every Friday we will be posting a new topic and getting opinions from Moms. But we also REALLY want to hear your opinions! Follow us on Twitter (@MomsCheckIn) and let us know what you think (make sure you use #MomsCheckIn) and we will be tweeting them all week!

Moms Check In

So who are our Moms?

Amanda (@its_a_fab_life) is the mom of one boy and owns It’s a Fabulous Life, which is a one stop place for all things ‘Mom’. You can find recipes, DIY projects, frugal living, parenting and more.

Jenni (@sweetpennies) is the mom of one boy and writes at Sweet Pennies From Haven. Sweet Pennies From Heaven is a hearth and home website that focuses on recipes, crafts and creating a comfortable home.

Lindsay (@SeeMomClick) is the mom of two great kids and owner of See Mom Click. She shares great deals, Disney happenings and recipes.

Stephanie (@spaceshipsLB) is the mom of one son and owns Spaceships and Laser Beams. Spaceships and Laser Beams is a great site full of party ideas, crafts and more all with boys in mind!

And this week out guest panelist is Katelyn (@whatsupfagans) from What’s Up Fagans? Katelyn is a young mom of three young kids – twin four year old girls and a one year old boy! She’s busy maintaining the mayhem, cleaning the house, blogging, reading books, couponing, and finding a balance to it all. She writes about simple ways you can live better, especially as a wife, mother, homemaker, and Christian.

You will want to make sure to check out all of our moms and follow along with Moms Check In on Twitter!

Beautiful Blonde Toddler Boy Standing In Bucket Spring Cleaning Over White

This week’s topic is all about chores. Do your children do chores?

Amanda-626x1024

I believe in chores! I really do! I honestly struggle with consistently doing chores, but we try. Josh is 11 and he makes his bed, keeps his room picked up, helps feed the pets, and to clean out his fish tank. I’m really lucky in that if I need him to do something and help me he will no questions asked. I need to be better about making it more consistent and expected.

-Amanda (@its_a_fab_life)

Jenni-Eaves1-213x300

My little guy doesn’t have lots of chores at this point but he does have the responsibility of picking up his bedroom and the toys through the rest of the house. Each night we spend about 5 to 10 minutes picking up before bedtime. The older he gets, for SURE – the more chores he’ll have!

-Jenni (@sweetpennies)

LindsayHeadShot3Border-300x300

We really don’t have a formal chore list for the kids. There are certain expectations we have of them just because they’re part of the family. So every day they’ll make their beds, clean up their rooms, and pick up their toys when they’re done playing. Then we do other things as needed, like bring their dirty laundry to the laundry room and empty their hampers into the basket to be washed. One thing I’ve done over the summer to keep us productive is to tackle a project a day. So far we’ve done things like clean out their desks, reorganize the coat closet, clean out and organize the pantry, and sort through their DVDs to see which ones we want to yard sale. They actually love it and ask me every day what our project will be! (And little by little I’m organizing the house with their help. Win!)

– Lindsay (@SeeMomClick)

stephanie

My son, Sam, is just turning five. I’ve seen lists of chores for kids according to their ages; I could just say I’m not into child labor…but the truth is I think that is something I should pay a lot more attention to…soon. Sam does help pick up his toys at the end of the day and he puts his dirty clothes in the laundry. Since he’s my only, my mindset has pretty much been “I’m taking care of my baby” and it hasn’t seemed like a big deal to me just to buzz through and take care of things. But I do think it’s important for kids to learn responsibility and to be good stewards. I also think there is a lot of other learning going on in early childhood and so I haven’t been worried that he is lax in working around the house just yet!

-Stephanie (@SpaceshipsLB)

Katelyn Fagan Square Headshot(1)

Yes and no. I fully expect my four-year olds to help with household duties and to clean up any messes they make themselves, and think they are more than capable to do regular age-appropriate chores both assisted and unassisted, but I don’t have any sort of “chore chart” for them. I don’t have a chore chart because I don’t want to have make up some sort of reward system for completed daily or weekly chores. I am trying to stay away from too much “reward” and “punishment” parenting tactics, because I don’t really want to make chores, a chore. Ideally, my children should want to clean and do chores because they understand it’s part of keeping a clean home and part of what it means to be in a family. In fact I actually prefer to clean my house while my kids are still awake and around, even if that seems counter-intuitive, because I want them to see me completing chores so they can see what goes on in maintaining a home and offer their help (which they often do). I don’t want them to be or feel entitled. So, yes, my children help me around the house daily, but no, I don’t hold them accountable to a set chore chart.

-Katelyn (@whatsupfagans)

Little girl with big curls doing the dishes - smiling, wearing large gloves

What about your house? Do your children do chores? We would LOVE to hear what you have to say! Just make sure to use #MomsCheckIn with your answer! We will be featuring your answers all week on Twitter!

Week 2

Next week’s topic: What is one thing you would have started sooner with your child? (Tough one!!)

Big thanks to Katelyn for joining us this week! Want to co-host a week of Moms Check In with us? Fill out the form here!

       

20 Things To Send To Your Child At Camp

20 Things To send to your child at camp - absolutely LOVE this!!! Plus - these are all awesome for at home this summer too!  So cool!

Summer Camps are beginning to be in full swing! If your child is heading off on an adventure here is a quick list of 20 (yes! 20!) awesome ideas to add to their summer time care package.

No summer camp? Then this list is full of 20 things to keep your kids busy this summer! 🙂

Either way – lots of fun things for a super fun summer!

BONUS! If you are an Amazon Prime member (not a member? Get a free trial here!) then this becomes even better! Not only will you receive your free 2 day shipping, but you can actually put in your child’s address at camp and include a note! Amazon will ship it directly to them! Which means you don’t even have to pay shipping to get it to your child! Awesome right?

cootie

Cootie Catcher Book

R-E-D…..1,2,3,4…..

I used to make Cootie Catcher all the times! This book will teach your kids how and it comes with 25 premade cootie catchers just waiting to tell the future!

cats cradle

Cats Cradle and Other Fantastic String Games$13.46

Who knew you could have so much fun with a piece of string! Well you can!

anna

Anna Banana: 101 Jump Rope Rhymes$7.19

When I was younger, I loved these books! Jump Rope Rhymes (there is also a hand clap games book too!) are a fun way to play with your friends!

jump rope

Jump Rope – $6.98

What good is a jump rope rhyme book without a jump rope! This one is easy to use, pack and ship!

quizzes

It’s All About Me – Personality Quizzes For You And Your Friends$15.25

This book is perfect for answering all of the tough questions like What Kind of Cookie Are You? or find out 8 Ways To Tell If Your Parents Are Extraterrestrials. All of the important stuff.

flip book

Flip Books – $12.95

In case you can’t tell, I’m a big fan of Klutz! This Flip Book comes with everything you need to get started making your own flip book! Plus some perforated flip books ready to be torn out!

spot it

Spot it! – $10.95

Spot it! is a fun game that kids can play in their bunks! Great for all ages!

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

Would You Rather & You’ve Got To Be Kidding Me! – $9.99 for both!

I am a huge fan of these games! You will get lots of use and lots of laughs from these!

fabric

Fabric Markers – $9.86

Send your child with a plain t-shirt, hat or pillowcase and a pack of fabric markers for their new friends to sign!

glow sticks

Glow Sticks – $9.95

The quickest way to be dubbed World’s Coolest Mom is to have glow sticks. It doesn’t matter if you have the bracelets, necklaces, sticks, shoe laces, glasses – if it glows, it’s cool! Plus, with the prices on Amazon – you can stock up the whole camp! 100 glow sticks for less than $10? Done!

mad libs madlibs

Mad Libs- Try Camp Daze ($2.71) or Letters From Camp ($3.91)

Everyone loves Mad Libs!

jokelopedia

Joke Books – We like the Jokelpedia ($10.76) or The Big Book of Laugh Out Loud Jokes For Kids ($8.99)

What do you get when you cross a bunch of kids and a joke book?

TONS of fun!!

robot talking hands

Talking Hand Temporary Tattoos – as low as $4.25 for a pack

Have you seen these? Talking Hand tattoos are so much fun! Chose from a huge variety – from robots to farm animals – and let your hands get talking! I think a pack of these would keep a cabin full of kids pretty busy!

smencils

Smencils – $12.76 for 10

My kids love Smencils! Send some fun Smencils and some stationary for kids to write home with.

spy camp

Books

Books are a great item to send to your child! And if you dare, send a book filled with ghost stories!

camp questions

The Camp Bunk Box of Questions – $9.98

This is one of my favorite items! The Camp Bunk Box of Questions has 82 questions girls can ask each other! Such a fun way for everyone to get to know each other!

camp journal

Camp Journal – $10.46

I really love this! This camp journal (comes with a pen too!) has games, pages to write in and even postcards! This would make for an awesome keepsake!

willy

Wolly Willy – $3.77

Who doesn’t remember Willy? Your kid will stay busy doodling up crazy hair do’s and facial hair!

magic 8

Magic 8 Ball – $8.25

What is a fun way to keep a cabin full of kids busy? Have them ask questions on a Magic 8 Ball!

mustache

Mustaches – $2.32

Get a pack of 36 self adhesive mustaches for only $2.32! That’s enough for the whole bunk house! (These do not qualify for 2 day shipping so you will need to order these ahead of time!)

20 Things To Mail To Your Child At Camp - LOVE this!!! Plus - these are all awesome things for anytime during the summer - camp or no camp! :)  MUST DO!!!

disclaimer

       

What To Eat, Books To Read & Products That Can Help You Get Pregnant

Trying to get pregnant?  Awesome post that covers what to eat, books to read and products that can help!! MUST READ!!!

 

Trying to get pregnant can be an exciting time! It can also be discouraging if you aren’t getting the results you are hoping for. Unfortunately, getting pregnant isn’t as easy as you would think! If you are trying to get pregnant hopefully this post will help you!

Foods To Eat When You Are Trying To Get Pregnant

What To Eat BEFORE You Conceive

If you are thinking about having a baby, one thing that you need to do before anything else is to get your diet in check. A healthy diet means a healthy mom. And a healthy mom can carry and deliver a healthy child!

So what foods you should eat before getting pregnant?

  • Folic Acid

    This is such an important part of your diet when carrying a child! Folic Acid can help with a healthy pregnancy and to reduce the chance for birth defects.

    What foods are rich in folic acid? Dark leafy greens (Spinach, Mustard Greens, Collard Greens, etc), Asparagus, Broccoli, Citrus fruits (Papaya, Oranges, Grapefruit, Strawberries, etc), Avocado, Beans, Okra and Brussel Sprouts can all help you get enough folic acid!

    You can also take folic acid supplements or begin to take prenatal vitamins with folic acid!

  • High Quality Protein

    Recently a study came out that said that women who had a hard time concieving should switch to a low carb, high protein diet. Why? Women who did so doubled the pregnancy rate in IVF patients! That’s amazing!

    Make sure the protein that you are eating is high quality! Some examples include eggs, white meat poultry and fish like salmon. You want to be careful with fish though and make sure that the type of fish you are eating is not one that could contain high mercury!

  • Omega 3

    Omega 3 fatty acid is SO good for you! Start taking it before you get pregnant and when you do get pregnant it will help develope baby’s brain! Aim for 1,000 – 2,000 mg a day from fish, chia seeds or flax seeds.

    You can also take a supplement.

  • Fruits & Veggies

    If you struggle with getting your daily fruit and vegetables now is the time to start! Fruits and vegetables are full of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that you need! And when you become pregnant, your baby will need too!

Along with a healthy diet, make sure to be active! Even if it is a simple walk! If you are overweight, losing just a few pounds can make getting pregnant easier. But don’t drastically cut your calories or start up extreme exercising. You don’t want to shock your body!

Books To Read To Conceive

Books To Read When You are Trying To Get Pregnant

The Mayo Clinic Guide To a Healthy Pregnancy

Taking Charge of Your Fertility

Fertility For Beginners

Making Babies: A Proven 3 Month Program For Maximum Fertility

The Impatient Woman’s Guide To Getting Pregnant

What To Expect Before You Are Expecting

Trying To Get Pregnant?  What To Eat, Books to Read, and Products That Can Help

Products That Can Help You To Conceive

There are many products out there that can help you to conceive naturally and more quickly. Here are a few trusted products that many women have found helpful!

Conceive Plus Fertility Lubricant

Clearblue Fertility Monitor Test – These are excellent! Watch the price of them! It may make more sense to buy it in the bundle package here.

Clearblue Digital Ovulation Test – I really love the monitor tests but these are really great too!

Nexcare Basal Digital Thermometer

If you are trying to conceive, I hope you have found these tips and resources helpful!

disclaimer

       

5 Things To Do For Yourself…This Week!

 

5 things to do for yourself this week

Sometimes I think that I forget that I exist. No, I don’t forget that I am here. But I am so wrapped up in being a mom, daughter, sister, wife, volunteer, neighbor, cook, photographer, business woman, and every other title that I have that sometimes I feel as though it’s easy to get lost in the shuffle. I think that it is that way for a lot of us! But it is so important to take care of yourself and to have ‘you time’ (without the guilt!)

Here are 10 things you can do for yourself this week!

1. Go To Bed Earlier

We’ve all been there. You are staying up so you can fold that last load of laundry (ok, so you can finish The Bachelor, but you really are going to fold that last load of laundry!) Or maybe you are trying to get some extra work done before going back to the office tomorrow. Whatever is keeping you up at night, this week, forget it! It will be there tomorrow.

Head to bed an hour early. Trust me, your body (and mind!) will thank you!

2. Spend Some Time Outside

Taking just 15 minutes to just be outside can make a big difference! Whether you go for a walk, sit outside and read, go for a bike ride or heck, even work outside! Getting fresh air and sunshine will help boost your mood, relieve stress, and not to mention, the perfect motivation to get in some more activity into your day.

3. Give 2 Meaningful Comments Each Day

Everyone loves a compliment. It makes us smile. Puts a little pep in our step. And most importantly, makes us feel good. Make it a priority to give two meaningful compliments each day!

Why two? Well, because one is to give to someone else and one is to give yourself. That’s right. Give yourself a break and make sure you give yourself the compliment of “Great hair!”, “Awesome job shaving a minute of your mile today!” or “Way to go! You crossed off your whole to do list today!”

You rock! You deserve it!

4. Eliminate Negativity

The world is full of negativity! All of the criticism can take a toll and can begin to affect your mood without you even realizing it! Take steps in avoiding negativity in your life.

– We all have that person on Facebook. You know, the one who never has anything good to say. About anything. They complain non-stop and usually, the world is out to get them. Maybe they post things that you don’t believe in or agree with. Whatever it is. Delete them! Are you obligated to be ‘friends’ with them? There is this little trick of hiding someone’s messages. Trust me. You would never think that such a little thing would make a difference, but not having to read Negative Nancy all the time just makes things better!

– Is there a Gossip Group at work? Instead of joining in (even if you are just there listening!) start hanging out at another water cooler at work! Surround yourself with positive and happy people and your life will become more positive.

– Do you catch yourself being negative? Make a conscious effort to come up with a positive thought for every negative thought that comes to mind. Eventually you will train your brain to think positively!

5. Tackle a Project You Have Been Putting Off

We all have projects that we put off. Sometimes they are big projects. Sometimes they are just a pain in the butt. Sometimes they are quick and easy and when we finally get them done we wonder why it took us so long.

This week, tackle that junk drawer, clean out the refrigerator, organize those receipts or whatever you have been putting off. By crossing items off your to do list will feel good!

5 Things to do for yourself this week

Remember, this is your week. Take charge of it and do something for yourself! Even if it is something small!

       

Helping Your Child Overcome Their Fear Of The Dark

Help Your Child Overcome Their Fear of the Dark

Life was tough when we were little! We had to eat veggies, couldn’t play in the rain, had to wear silly sweaters that our Grandma made us, but the hardest part of being little was bedtime. Not only because we had to go to bed when we would much rather be playing, but because of the dark!

Most children are afraid of the dark at some point in their life. Whether they are afraid of a monster under the bed or the boogeyman for some reason it’s a fear that comes to us all. Here are a few tips to help your child cope and overcome their fear of the dark.

1. Listen to your child!

Children are always saying that adults don’t listen to them. Fear is a powerful emotion. If your child confides in you that they are afraid, let them sit down and talk to you about it. Listen to their story and ask questions. “Why do you think there is something under your bed?” “How would it get there?” “Why would we not be able to see it during the day?” Then explain to your child that there isn’t anything there. If your child something is ‘living’ under their bed or in their closet show them during the day that there is nothing there!

2. Your bedtime routine is important!

If you have a child who is afraid at night, your bedtime routine can be vital! First, take a look at books that are being read before bed and television that is being watched. Could any of those be putting scary thoughts into your child’s head? Then, if your child is afraid of something lurking in the shadows try doing a night watch. Start by keeping the lights on and before bed explain how there is nothing there. But just to show your child, invite them to look with you. It might take multiple stages to do this. Perhaps at first it’s just Mom or Dad doing the looking. Then the child might. Then, perhaps you can turn the lights off (but keep the hall light on or a night light) and give your child a flash light to look. Eventually your child will see that nothing has been there!

Try letting your child fall asleep to an audio book or while listening to music. If you keep your child’s mind focused on that, then they won’t have time to think about things that are scaring them. (Just be sure to pick out an appropriate audio book. You may also need to move bedtime forward to allow for extra time to fall asleep!)

(Tip: You can sign up for a FREE trial to Audible here and download an audio book for FREE!)

Help Your Child To Not Be Afraid of The Dark

3. Security Items are ok!

If your child has a favorite blanket, pillow or stuffed animal make sure they have it at night. It’s ok to have these security items!

4. No Monster Spray or Monster Cams!

I’ve seen lots of parents that have ‘monster spray’ or who set up ‘Monster Cams’. While many people say it helps their child, it can also hurt your child. After all, if you are willing to play along with the idea that a monster really is under the bed and you need to spray to keep him away – doesn’t that really tell your child that monsters do actually exist!?

5. Keep the light on!

Everyone sleeps better when it is dark, but if your child insists on sleeping with their light on let them. (Just be sure to turn it off before you go to bed!) After a while you can graduate to a night light or just the hall light and eventually to no light.

6. Give them some extra love!

Remember, being a kid is tough. Fear is a big emotion. Be proud of your child for facing their fear each night and for being able to talk to you about it!

By doing these things you can really help your child overcome their fear of the dark! Remember, being afraid of the dark is an age appropriate fear for kids. It’s important to be supportive and understanding so our children know that they can come to us when they are scared. We won’t be upset, we won’t laugh at them and instead we will support and help them.

Here are a few of my favorite products for kiddos who struggle with a fear of the dark. They may work out perfect for your child!

Books for kids to help over come their fear of the dark!  ♥ this!

Books:

Products For Kids to Overcome Their Fear of the Dark

Things that can help your child:

disclaimer

       

Bike Safety For Kids – What You Need & How To Make Sure It Properly Fits

Bike Safety For Kids - What You Need & How To Make Sure It Properly Fits

When the snow melts the bicycles come out! I think just about everyone of us remembers being out playing with our friends and riding our bikes. Whether your kids are riding around the neighborhood or over to get ice cream, do you know if your children are doing it safely? Each year 300,000 children go to the emergency room for treatment from bicycle accidents with 10,000 of those requiring a hospital visit lasting a few days. By using these bike safety tips you can keep your child safe while they make childhood memories of their own!

Helmets

  • A bicycle helmet should be worn every single time your child gets on their bicycle.
  • Make sure your helmet has a sticker inside from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). It will show that your helmet has met safety regulations.
  • Your helmet should fit properly. A good fit means that it fits level on your head and two fingers above the eyebrows. The straps must lay flat and meet under the ears in a ‘V’ shape. The chin strap should be snug with a 1 finger gap between the chin and strap.
  • If the helmet has any cracks, chips or damage you will need to replace it.
  • Do not wear a hat under your helmet.
  • Make your child’s helmet fun! Pick out their favorite color or with a fun design! Bicycle helmets should really be purchased in store so your child can try it on to ensure getting the proper fit.

Bicycle Upkeep

  • Check your child’s tires to make sure they are properly aired up. This is really important after the bike comes out of winter storage!
  • Take a look at the brakes. Give them a quick test and make sure that they are not sticking.
  • Watch the chain! You don’t want it to fall off while your child is riding! Keep an eye on it to see if it needs oil or adjusted.

Bike Safety For Kids - What You Need & How To Make Sure It Properly Fits

Safety Rules

  • Have your child wear bright colored clothes to help drivers see them.
  • Wearing the right clothes while biking can be important! Loose pants, untied shoelaces, backpack straps can all get stuck
  • Avoid wearing headphones while biking. If your child can’t hear over their music they will not be able to hear important sounds such as cars.
  • Make sure your kids know where they are allowed to ride. Teach them that even if they are on the sidewalk, they need to watch for cars. Especially baking in and out of their driveway!
  • Talk to your child about what to do when they come up to someone on the sidewalk or bike trail. They should make sure the person knows that they are there. If they are able to pass them, they can announce that they are passing and indicate which side they will be passing on (left or right.)
  • Bumps, ramps, stairs and potholes can all be very tempting for kids! But they can also be dangerous!
  • Walk you bike across crosswalks and through parking lots. In parking lots, car doors can open suddenly so it’s best to walk your bicycle.
  • Always ride on the right side of the road.
  • Obey all traffic laws.

Fun Safety Gear Your Kids Will Love

Bicycle Safety Gear Your Child Will Love

Here are a few bike safety gear items your child will love!

  • Bicycle lights – Choose your child’s favorite color and put them on their wheels!
  • Bicycle bells – Chose from traditional or find something fun like this hamburger bell!
  • Bicycle Flag – These are really important if your child is riding a low bicycle that could be hard for drivers to see.
  • Knee and Elbow pads – Chose from a multitude of colors and patterns!

disclaimer

       

Craft Supplies Every House and Classroom Needs To Have

Craft Supplies Every Home and Classroom Needs

A well stocked craft closet is like a well stocked kitchen! When you have something that you need to make – you have all the ingredients! Here is a list of supplies that classrooms and homes should have to make sure they are always ready to create!

Art Supplies You Should Have In Your Home or Classroom

Paper

Art Supplies Every Home & Classroom Needs

Paint & Supplies

Art Supplies Every Home & Classroom Needs To Have

Drawing

Craft Supplies Every Home & Classroom Needs To Have

Craft Supplies

All of these items will lead to countless masterpieces and creations! Not to mention hours of learning and fun! Did I miss anything? What is your favorite and most used craft supply at your house?

disclaimer

       

The Mom Challenge: Week 35 – How to Raise Creative Kids

The Mom Challenge

Welcome to week 35 of The Mom Challenge!! If you are new, please know that you can jump in at anytime!! Check out all of our previous weeks here.

The Mom Challenge - Week 34:  How To Raise Creative Kids

This week we are talking about how to raise creative kids this week. I think being creative is so important! Now, we aren’t talking about raising your child to be a musical prodigy (well, they could be!) or the artist of our time (it could happen!) but being creative leads to being good problem solvers! That ability to think outside the box will serve your child well through adulthood! And it’s something that can be learned! So here are ten ways to keep the creativity flowing in your house!

1. Ask “Why?” and “What if…” Questions

Kids ask a lot of questions! In fact, one study said that kids ask 300 questions a day! I know that it’s hard when you are asked 300 questions, but encourage your children to ask questions! You are never going to learn about things if you don’t ask questions! Even as an adult, I ask a lot of questions. (I blame my Mother who, also, asks a lot of questions!) I promise I don’t ask 300 a day, but if I’m ever curious about something – I ask! People are generally happy to teach and pass along what they know.

What if questions are my favorite. Josh asks a TON of what if’s. Some people will say “Stop with the what if’s! It’s not even possible!” but I say “Bring them on!!” When he asks things like “What if a monster came for dinner?” or “What if you were driving and it literally started raining cats and dogs?” I love it! It means that he is thinking! And when he asks silly questions, it means he is using his imagination to create those silly questions!

2. Answer Those Questions!

So now your kids are asking a ton of questions. It’s so important to answer them! Answering their questions shows that no question is a bad question. Plus, you are helping your child learn!

If your child asks a silly what-if question – answer them back with a silly answer! Not only is it fun, but this keeps the imagination going! Then, they have to tell the next part of the story!

If you don’t know the answer, don’t feel embarrassed! It’s ok! And actually, it’s good! It shows that no one knows everything and that we all, even as adults, still have more to learn about the world. Go ahead and tell your child that you don’t know. But make sure to make time to find out together the answer. This is a great way to show children how to search for answers! Plus, it’s great mom time to learn together!

If you find your child asking a lot of questions on a specific topic, it’s a great way to take your learning to another level! Visit the library, do a quick Google search or visit a museum! Get your child involved! It may help them discover a new passion.

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

3. Encourage and Have Open-Ended Toys

What are open-ended toys? Open-ended toys are toys that don’t have a set of instructions. They can be things like Legos, play kitchens (or pretend food), dolls, art supplies or Play-Doh. Open-ended toys are great because they allow to kids to use their imaginations! Are they playing house or opening a restaurant? Are they building a spaceship and then traveling to Planet Zion or building a town? (Psst! You can see our favorite open ended toys here! )

4. Have Easy Access to Those Open-Ended Toys!

I used to teach pre-school and one thing that some teachers did that drove me absolutely crazy was that they would ‘close’ centers or keep the art supplies up high where kids couldn’t use them. If you would ask why they had a good reason – it gets messy. But that’s not a good enough reason! Who cares if the kids drag every.single.piece of dress up clothing out? And seriously, wiping down the paint table takes just a few minutes! Giving kids easy access to ways to pretend and create is SO important in fostering creativity! Encourage children to play! Even if that means there is a mess! (And then, encourage them to help!)

control freak

5. Be Open Minded

A friend of mine posted this on her Facebook page and it made me laugh. Been there! But I try REALLY hard NOT to! So what that they Lego set they are using is to build a pirate ship and they chose to build a space ship? Give your children the tools and let them create!

One thing I learned while teaching is not to ask children what they made? (Who wants to work hard on a project just to have no one be able to recognize it?) Instead, ask them to tell you about their project!

6. It’s OK to Try

If they are trying do something and it turns out not to work or work like they should just remind them that it is ok! It doesn’t mean you failed – it means you succeeded in finding a way that it doesn’t work! Ask them questions to help guide to what could be fixed and to help brainstorm ideas that might work.

stress

7. Keep A Stress Free Environment

This is important just for overall health in general! Stress is no fun. Nothing kills the creative mind like stress! If your child is painting try not to say, “Are you done yet? Are you almost done?” I understand and am all for time restraints! But make sure your child has enough time! Don’t rush them through their work! I wouldn’t want to be rushed either! While they are complaining try to keep your grumbles about noise and mess to yourself (unless things get out of control!) As long as kids help clean up their mess and aren’t crazy and disturbing the neighbors (or you on the phone!) let them play. Let them be kids! If you find your kids (or yourself!) getting stressed – go for a walk, take a nap or my favorite….

8. READ!

Reading is SO good! Good for the mind! Good for relaxing. Good for learning. Good for creativity. Good for bonding. Good for everything! Read to your child! Everyday! When they are older make sure they have a reading time. Books are so powerful!

9. Cook Together

Cooking is another great bonding time. It’s a fun process that kids can do and make something seriously delicious (or, well, not! We’ve made those too!) When kids get older it’s a great way to turn it into a chemistry lesson! And even better, when they get older they may turn into a great chef and make you deliciously awesome meals! 🙂

10. Model a Creative Lifestyle

Showing your children that creativity is important to you is a great way for them to grow up with it being important to them. I’m not saying you need to be creating a mural in your living room, but if painting is your thing do it! If gardening is your peace go for it! If you love to read, make the time! And not only while the kids are asleep! Let them see that you enjoy giving your mind an exercise! Be a role model!

The Mom Challenge Week 35 - How to Raise Creative Kids ♥

(Don’t forget to pin!)

What is your favorite way to be creative?

disclaimer

       

Open Ended Toys That Promote Creativity & Problem Solving

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

Toys aren’t just for having fun! Great open ended toys help teach creative thinking and problem solving. What does open ended mean? It basically means that they don’t come with instructions and that kids can decide how to play with them. Here are some of our favorite open ended toys for all ages!

All Ages:

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

Magna-Tiles Clear Colors (100 piece set) $120

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

Learning Resources Gears! $29.95 $26.99

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

Reusable Sticker Pads (Available in tons of themes! These are great for the car too!) $4.99

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

Dress Up Costumes – price varies

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

Pattern Blocks $19.99 $16.43

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

Pretend Kitchen $79.99 $77.56

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

Play Tent – price varies on tent – This one has a puppet theater! I also really love the space station one! 🙂

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

Train Set – varies – this 100 piece set is $46.99

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

Doll house – varies – This house is $149.99 $111.57

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

Make Your Own Monster Puppet$24.99 $19.78

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

Bicyle – varies (Did you know that as soon as your child can walk they can ride a Strider bicycle? They are super cool!)

Toys that promote creativity

Don’t forget art supplies! Paints, clay, craft kits, chalk, crayons and lots of paper! 🙂

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

Five and Under:

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

Mega Bloks First Builders Big Building Bag (80 piece set) $24.99 $14.99

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

Tobbles $28.95

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

Wooden Bear Family$14.99 $13.46

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

MixMates (This is the Monsters+Superheroes set – they have many to choose from!) $14.95

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

Magical Tea Set – $17.99

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

Pretend Food – Price Varies – My favorites are by Melissa & Doug!

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

Five and Older:

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

K’nex Classics 50 Model Building Set $34.99 $26.99

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

ZOOBMOBILE Fastback H2H – The Head 2 Head Racing Challenge $29.99 $18.49

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

Draw & Write Journal $8.97 (This would be good for younger children too for an adult to ‘scribe’!)

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

Melissa & Doug Deluxe Magic Set $34.99 $26.99

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

Fashion Design Activity Kit $16.99 $11.94

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

ZAC – The Zoob Alien Creature $39.99 $26.32

Open Ended Toys - Toys to pick for your child that promote creativity and problem solving skills

Would You Rather or You’ve Gotta Be Kidding! $9.99

Does your child have a favorite open ended toy?

disclaimer

       

The Mom Challenge – Stop Judging Other Moms

The Mom Challenge

Welcome back to The Mom Challenge. If you remember, we started this series a while ago. I’ve been wanting to do another ‘challenge’, but I have been drawing a blank. Today something happened. At first I was a little…put off by it. And then, I realized this was the exact inspiration that I needed for a new Mom Challenge post. (Right – always look for the positive!)

Before we go on – you can check out all of our past ‘challenges’ here.

Don't judge me - week 34 of The Mom Challenge

Don’t judge me. That’s this week’s challenge. Well, not to judge period.

But first, a little background of where all of this is coming from. Yesterday my post on our chore magnets was featured on another website (thank you). Essentially – they were magnets. With chores on them. Josh could pick what chores he wanted to do and earn his allowance. We also color coded them to help earn TV/Video Game time. I had lots of emails asking “what did you put on the magnets?” So I posted my list. Some things included chores like “Take out the trash.” some things included things like “Try a new food.”. And yes. One of them included “Brush your teeth.” (Don’t worry – we had 2 magnets for that! One for the morning and one for the evening!) Well. Then I got this lovely comment:

mean womanSheri wrote:

“Overall, a generally clever idea, but I was appalled at one “chore magnet”. Brushing one’s teeth is not a chore! It’s a matter of personal hygiene, like washing your hands, and taking baths, and going to the potty. Failure to brush your teeth can land you in the hospital under general anesthesia. Not to mention black teeth and no friends and very likely bullying. You’re paying your child 50 cents a day to do something they are REQUIRED to do, twice a day everyday, no questions asked??”

FIRST.

I love comments. I love hearing your thoughts, your ideas and getting to know my readers. Just so you know! Please comment away!! 🙂

I’m very sorry I appalled you. I absolutely agree with you. Dental hygiene is so important! That’s why I added it to our chore magnets! I wanted to make sure that it was done. Twice a day. For the right amount of time. And included mouthwash and flossing.

I know how important dental health is (please see above comments!) What you may not know is that sometimes everyday things can be torture for different people. Especially kids who suffer from sensory issues and Autism. Which we just happen to have. (Thankfully things like brushing teeth are not an issue for us anymore!)

BUT…why does it matter?

there is no way to be a perfect mother

(This was the quote that started this whole series!)

WHY do women and mothers judge other mothers like this. Especially mothers who are there, trying, involved, working to make their children’s lives the best that they can.

Stay at home moms judge moms who are working. Working mom’s are judging moms who choose to stay at home.

Breast feeding moms and formula moms. Diaper moms vs cloth diapers. Organic vs non-organic. Parents who choose to let their kids sleep in bed with them.

Full-Time-Mom

(Image)

Mom’s who let their kids cut their hair however they want, the mom who let’s her son wear his superman costume to the grocery store, the pacifier moms, the blanky moms, the moms who run through the fast food line.

The over weight child’s mom, the child who is not participating in extra curricular activities, the child who is participating in too many extra curricular activities.

And apparently the mom who paid her child 50¢ to brush his teeth.

Being a mother is the hardest job in the world. WHY are we picking out women to put down. To judge. I could understand if maybe I was being judged because my child didn’t even OWN a toothbrush. But listen. I’m here. I’m trying. I take the best care of my child just like the next mom. If I didn’t love my child I wouldn’t write a ‘mom’ blog. If you didn’t love your child – you wouldn’t be reading an article about a Mom Challenge.

mom quote

I’m not perfect. I don’t pretend to be. I should have made my son eaten more vegetables. (Here. Want to judge me? The only fruit he will eat is a banana. I made him try a bite of pineapple the other day and he gagged. Trust me. I’m pretty sure it was the biggest form of torture that he’s ever been put through.) I probably shouldn’t let him stay up as late as I do on the weekends. I should make him cut back on his video game time more.

But he’s a good kid. He’s respectful. He’s polite. He’s smart. He’s sweet.

And, to be honest. It’s not really anyone’s business. (Now, I know I put it out there on the internet for all to see so maybe it is other people’s business…) How about this. It’s not anyone’s business to judge me as a mother.

boxing-gloves

(Image)

It’s time to put the boxing gloves away. We need to quit bringing others down and instead support other moms. We need to tell each other, “Hey, I know it’s hard. You are doing a good job.” We need to quit competing on who can be the best and be ourselves. We need to start worrying about other people’s kids less and our own more. But most of all, we need to quit judging other mothers.

Not only will cutting out the judging make us nicer, better people, but that will translate into being an even better mom! Living a positive life makes you happier! Being happier means you are more fun to be around! Plus, let’s lead by example! Let’s teach our kids that not everyone does things the same way. Some people have different ideas. That’s what makes us unique. That’s what makes us special. And that’s why we, as a whole, work. We each have something important to bring to the table. We can all learn from each other.

And please, don’t think this post is about a comment I recieved. I actually received lots of comments on this post and others that were not so nice. Normally I delete them. But this time I let them inspire me. This challenge is not directed at anyone nor is it to make someone look or feel bad. The fact that mom’s need to support each other has been on my heart for a while now. Parenting is hard – let’s not make it harder!

Don’t forget to check out the other 33 week’s Mom Challenge posts here.