ML Interest Tag: baby-cereal

Make Your Own Teething Biscuits & Baby Rusks

by Oz Spies

Once your child hits the one-year mark, soothe their sore gums with baby teething biscuits and snacks that also give them a nutritious boost. This magical remedy is known by many names—teething biscuits, teething crackers, or baby rusks—and they’re easy to make yourself with these quick recipes, including no-bake versions, wheat-free biscuits, and sugar-free teething biscuits too. So the next time you see baby gnawing, you’ll be prepared with a homemade teething biscuit.

1. Healthy Homemade Teething Biscuits

Oats, bananas, and coconut oil are all you’ll need for these teething crackers. Add vanilla and spices like cinnamon, ginger, or nutmeg for extra flavor, or keep them plain. Super Healthy Kids has the recipe.

2. Quinoa Teething Crackers

Protein-rich quinoa is the only ingredient in this crispy cracker. Cradle Rocking Mama blends the nutritious grain in three forms (cooked flakes, uncooked flakes, and quinoa flour) to get consistency kids like.

3. Sweet Potato and Chamomile Teething Biscuits

These flavorful biscuits from My Kids Lick the Bowl cleverly include chamomile from a tea bag to relax a child who’s suffering from teething pain, along with sweet potato and oat flour.

4. Apple, Banana, or Pumpkin Teething Biscuits

Mama Natural shares three recipes, highlighting apple, banana, and pumpkin. All three are gluten-free, thanks to a combination of rolled oats and steel-cut oats as the base. They also include maple syrup and baking spices for sweetness and baby-friendly flavor that makes this homemade teething biscuit top our list.

Related: 30 Best Baby Cups, Bowls, Plates & Utensils

a baby with a big smile sits in a crib waiting for a baby teething biscuit
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5. Oat & Banana Drops

Momtastic offers up this classic vegan recipe full of oats and mashed bananas. Choose overripe bananas for sweetness and add a few spices like cinnamon and cardamom. In 15 minutes, you’ll have a tasty homemade teething biscuit.

6. Fruit & Vegetable Teethers

Teething biscuits don’t get any healthier than these fruit and veggie snacks from Weelicious. Thinly slice fruits and veggies like sweet potato and kiwi, and then put them in a dehydrator. If you don’t have a dehydrator, this banana leather version requires only an oven—and is a hit with older kids too.

7. Pear-rific Oat-tastic Teething Biscuits

The name of Everyday Champagne‘s recipe says it all. Pears plus oats=awesome teething treats. Mix together oat flour, baby cereal, pear puree, and allspice to make a sweet biscuit that’s free of added sugar or salt.

8. Grain-Free Teething Biscuits

Created by a nurse, these grain-free teethers from Real Food RN are packed with nutrients. The ingredient list is longer than some: coconut and cassava flour, applesauce, maple syrup, molasses, egg yolk plus spices. But the extra effort is worth it, as each ingredient packs a nutritional punch. The recipe also includes clove, a spice that some say soothes teething pain. When stored in the freezer, the biscuits last for months and offer a cool treat for your little one’s gums.

Related: Banish Bland: 10 Spiced-Up Baby Vegetable Recipes

9. Sugar-Free Baby Rusks

You probably have the ingredients in your kitchen right now for these sugar- and salt-free homemade teething biscuits from the Welsh-Italian Chiapa sisters: eggs, flour, baking powder, and applesauce (or another fruit puree). Add cinnamon, orange zest, or Parmesan for extra flavor.

10. Healthy Homemade Teething Biscuits

Boys Ahoy‘s recipe calls for rice cereal, flour, coconut oil, cinnamon and banana (or applesauce). Roll out the dough and cut with your favorite cookie cutter to create crisp mum-mums in fun, baby-friendly shapes.

11. The Natural Mum’s Super Easy Rusk Recipe

With only two ingredients, you can whip up these teething treats from the Natural Mum anytime. All you need is a fruit or veggie puree and a few cups of spelt flour. Because the puree choice is up to you, the flavor options are endless. Try sweet potatoes one day and peaches the next.

Make sure to capture all those toothy grins—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids. 

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Dad Imitating His Toddlers’ Eating Habits Knocks It Out of the Park

by Christina Marfice

This dad’s viral TikTok series about how his toddlers approach mealtime is a hilarious must-see for all parents

Feeding toddlers can be an absolute minefield, as anyone who’s done it knows all too well. They’re picky, they’re messy, their tastes change from day to day (and hour to hour… and minute to minute). They knock over plates, fall off their chairs, and sometimes their chicken nuggets are just used as a spoon to slurp ketchup off of instead of actual food to eat. And one dad has captured every moment of the chaos in a side-splitting series of TikTok videos where he imitates his toddlers’ eating habits with perfect accuracy.

@bkotpa on TikTok, who describes himself as a “Work from home Dad/Husband” who is “Just goofin around,” started making videos where he imitates how his 1.5-year-old eats, and they’re perfect.

@oohbuddy

STOP ASKING FOR THE POUCH CAP. I KNOW YOURE GONNA PUT IT IN YOUR MOUTH. Also, just tell me you’re done and I’ll come get the plate. #dadsoftiktok #toddlerdad #parentsoftiktok #parentinghumor

♬ original sound – OOH Buddy

From putting the fruit pouch cap directly into his mouth to ending the meal by smashing his sandwich and throwing it off the table, this could literally be anyone’s toddler because we have all been here. Part 2, which features the mess that happens when crunchy snacks enter the chat, is even better.

@oohbuddy

Replying to @bkotpa Coughing with full mouths and more Cap drama. #dadsoftiktok #toddlerdad #parentsoftiktok #parentinghumor

♬ original sound – OOH Buddy

The videos were so popular that this dad decided to make a few more, but this time, he’s imitating his 4-year-old. Demanding his sandwich be cut into “four pieces, long ways, thank youuu,” taking the pieces apart to lick off the PB&J, and then demanding some of his little brother’s baby cereal instead—this is the most relatable mealtime content of all time.

@oohbuddy

Replying to @leeann.braun And not a single bite of food was eaten. #dadsoftiktok #toddlerdad #parentsoftiktok #parentinghumor

♬ original sound – OOH Buddy

Part 2 nails it yet again—we’re howling at the part where, despite his dad’s repeated asks not to lean his chair, he topples backward at the end of the video, because of course he does.

@oohbuddy

Replying to @im_that_bish_yo Washing hands, Ketchup, and “Stop Leaning in the Chair!” #dadsoftiktok #toddlerdad #parentsoftiktok #parentinghumor

♬ Who Wants to Be a Millionaire – Bounce Ball Boogie

These videos are an excellent reminder that all parents go through these struggles, and this too shall pass. Also, if you don’t already keep a Tide pen near your dining table for ketchup stain freak-outs, this is your sign to invest in one.

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Clean Sweep: Where to Donate Toys, Clothes & More This Spring

by Jeff Totey

Is your family drowning in stuff? We’ve all been there when our closets have been full, drawers were overflowing, and our garages hadn’t seen a car parked in there in years. Where did all of this stuff come from, and how do you get rid of it? While it does take some time, it is doable, and there are lots of nearby places to donate used toys, clothes and kid gear that are taking up much-needed space at your place. Here’s what you need to know.

Where to Start

If you already know what items need to go, you’re off to a great start. If not, it’s recommend that you go from room to room with three boxes or containers marked: “To Keep”, “To Throw Away” and “To Donate.” Tackle those piles by putting items in the appropriate box. You might need to make some tough decisions on what not to keep, but experts suggest that if you haven’t used it in over a year, it’s time to toss it.

Where to Donate

Goodwill

where to donate toys clothes
Goodwill Industries

Seattle Goodwill provides job training and education to help individuals overcome barriers to employment. They offer 30 donation centers making it really easy for families bringing in pre-sorted used goods. If you'd like to give new life to toys, clothes and other small items, this is the spot to do it. The process is pretty quick during the week, but you might experience a longer wait time during the weekend, so plan accordingly.

What used items to donate: Right now, Goodwill is taking clothing, accessories, shoes, toys, sporting goods, books (and other media), household appliances and items. Most locations are accepting furniture donations, but not all, so be sure to check the list before you go.

Find a nearby donation center here.

Westside Baby

Pixabay

Did you know food stamps don't cover diapers? Westside Baby provides diapers, clothing and other critical items to children and families throughout King County. In 2021, Westside Baby saw record-high need. They responded by distributing 2.5 million diapers, 1,600 car seats and over 2,000 bags of clothes. Consider helping out a new baby by adding a box of new diapers and wipes to your donation. Westside Baby has two drop-off locations that you can schedule a donation online. Drop-off locations are at South Lake Union on Mondays and White Center on Wednesdays, both from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

What used items to donate: Diapers, wipes, hygiene items (baby wash/shampoo, etc.), infant bathtubs, potty chairs, bouncy seats, winter clothing (especially 0-6 months), books, toys, shoes, bottles, baby-wearing carriers and diaper bags.

What NEW items to donate: Socks, underwear and formula (especially Similac).

Note: Westside Baby will not accept expired car seats and are not collecting furniture, changing tables, "exersaucers" or baby swings.

10002 14th Ave. S.W.
Seattle, WA 98146
206-767-1662

Habitat for Humanity ReStores

Pixabay

Simply put, Habitat for Humanity helps low-income families build their own homes and restore dignity. Their Habitat ReStores are home improvement stores that accept small and large donations of new or gently used furniture, appliances, housewares, building materials and more. Proceeds from the sales of these items help Habitat’s work in your community and around the world. Habitat ReStore staff and volunteers make the donation process as simple as possible. You can always donate goods in person, and many Habitat ReStores offer free pickup of large items. There is one very large ReStore in Tukwila near Southcenter. 

Seattle-King County ReStore
1185 Andover Park W.
Tukwila, WA 98188
888-507-7078

Find a nearby donation center here.

St. Vincent de Paul

Pixabay

With thrift stores similar to the Goodwill, St. Vincent de Paul also serves the community by running a food bank, programs for Veterans, basic health assessments, language and social services to the Hispanic community in King County and a case management program and call center to help individuals access social services. The charity is currently accepting donations at the Georgetown Kent, Kenmore, Burien, and Renton locations. Donations can be given Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. (However, the Georgetown location does not accept donations on Saturdays). Make sure your items are in sellable condition—no rips, tears, stains or big scratches. When you arrive, you'll be asked to place your donation in wire-framed boxes, and you can download an e-receipt online for donations over $250.

What used items to donate: They're currently accepting clothing, electronic items and household items. Everything needs to be in good working order. Hard surface furniture donations (tables, wooden chairs, desks, etc.) our being accepted at the Kent, Kenmore, Burien, and Renton locations only.

Find a donation center nearest you here.

Eastside Baby Corner

where to donate toys clothes in Seattle
Eastside Baby Corner

Eastside Baby Corner provides direct assistance to local families challenged by job loss, homelessness, medical crisis and poverty. Each year they provide more than 8,000 clothing bags (each with a week's wardrobe) and more than 1,324 car seats to local families, keeping children safe and families comforted in their time of greatest need. Your donations won't gather dust here; items are matched to deserving families within a week of the item being requested.

What used items to donate: Clothing for children (birth through size 14), maternity clothing, baby gear, shoes, bottles, toys, diapers (new or opened packages), school supplies and books, blankets, bedding, towels, bicycles, and more. Check their website for the complete list of items.

Most needed items: Boy’s clothing: size 12-14, children’s pants sizes 2T-14, shoes (boy’s size 7C – 1Y and girl’s size 8C – 1Y), umbrellas, baby monitors, safety gates, safety locks, pajamas, towels, bedding (especially queen sheets and comforters of all sizes) and infant fleece blanket sleepers size NB-9 mos.

Note: EBC does not accept walkers with wheels, used nipples or pacifiers or those made in China, crib bumpers, open food or formula packages, flat fabric slings, sleep wedge, oral medication, toys with magnets, teethers containing gel or liquid, or made with wood, amber, marble or silicone. Other Items not accepted include toys bigger than a school backpack, adult clothing (except for maternity), ski equipment, electric breast pumps, humidifier/vaporizers, furniture, large train tables and stuffed animals longer than 12 inches. When in doubt, give them a call.

1510 N.W. Maple St.
Issaquah, WA 98027
425-865-0234

View all drop times and locations here. 

Treehouse

where to donate toys clothes in Seattle
Treehouse

This standout organization's mission is to "give foster kids a childhood and a future." Among the myriad of services Treehouse provides to youth in the foster care system is an awesome warehouse filled to the brim with new and like-new clothing, shoes, toys, school supplies and books. This is where the kids can go "shopping" (everything is free) for what they want and need. This is a particularly great choice if along with your toy donation, you have a fashion-conscious tween (or toddler for that matter) who has outgrown their stylish brands.

What used items to donate: Infant/toddler, kids and young adult clothing, shoes and basic accessories, luggage, books, toys and games.

What NEW items to donate: Socks, underwear, bras, swimwear, blankets, stuffed animals, school supplies (including lunch boxes and backpacks), hygiene items (including diapers and baby wipes), bikes, scooters and skateboards. Other ways to donate can be found online.

Note: Treehouse will not accept items that are worn and/or out of date – such as: clothing in poor condition, toys and games that are missing pieces, luggage that has broken straps, zippers, or wheels; furniture, mattresses, play structures, used baby equipment (car seats, pack-n-plays, strollers, etc.), electronics (video games, phones, DVDs, CDs, etc.), household Items (appliances, kitchenware, decorations, wall decor, pillows, bedding (sheets and comforters), etc., breast pumps or breast pump accessories, food, beverages, or baby formula.

2100 24th Ave. S., Suite 200
Seattle, WA 98144
206-767-7000

Drop-off Hours: Tue. & Thu., 10 a.m.-3 p.m. or by appointment.

Northwest Center

Pexels

The Northwest Center has created schools and bustling social enterprises which demonstrate the powerful benefit of people of all abilities working together. Your toys will be used in one of their awesome early learning programs where children with and without developmental disabilities learn and play together. With two dozen drop off locations, this organization makes donating super easy. Currently, the Northwest Center Big Blue Trucks aren't making rounds for donation pick-ups, but families can still drop off clothing only in the Big Blue Bins. Find one near you online. You can also donate to Northwest Center at any Value Village store.

What used items to donate: They're currently accepting clothing donations in a Big Blue Bin.

7272 W. Marginal Way S.
Seattle, WA 98108
206-285-9140 

Mary's Place

where to donate toys clothes in Seattle
Mary's Place

This safe haven provides more than just the tangible needs of food and shelter for homeless families with children; Mary's Place also provides a community and a safety net for women and families looking to rebuild their lives and move back into housing quickly. They are always in need of gently used items and other items. They have donation stations in SODO (Mon.-Sat., 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.) and Seattle Regrade (Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sat., 9 a.m.-1 p.m.). More information about each location and drop-off hours can be found online.

What new or used items to donate: Children's books, backpacks, tote bags, fanny packs, small suitcases, bottles, sippy cups, in-season clothing for men, women and kids, raincoats, towels, utensils, small appliances (microwaves, crock pots, toasters, blenders), digital ear thermometers, 

What NEW items to donate: Diapers (especially sizes 5 & 6), baby wipes, hand sanitizer, antibacterial hand wipes, individual tissue packets, alcohol wipes, cough drops, Pedialyte packets, pain relievers (Ibuprofen, aspirin), topical antibiotic ointments (like Neosporin or PolySporin), cough drops, hairbrushes, hair ties, body wash, ethnic hair care, lotion, Chapstick, razors, nail clippers, makeup, mouthwash, toothbrushes and toothpaste.

Items with a high need: Twin sheets, blankets, pillowcases, auto shop gift certificates, maternity clothes, new underwear (all sizes - men, women and children), stroller covers and towels. Check online for the complete, most up-to-date list.

The Healing Center

Pixabay

As the only drop-in grief support center for youth (ages 4-18) in the area, The Healing Center fills an important gap in supporting kids who've experienced loss or trauma. The Healing Center also offers grief-support for adults, children and families as well as a day camp in the summer. The organization offers a unique, long-term, multi-faceted approach to grief support, combining group support with informal events and social networks.

Children’s programming supplies needed: Crayons, markers, colored pencil, coloring books, notebooks, board games, sketch book, Play-doh, model magic, beading supplies, watercolor supplies, washable kid's paint, construction paper, plain white paper and stickers.

Household supplies needed: Furniture (couches and chairs), lamps, side tables, office chairs and office desks.

Please contact donations@healingcenterseattle.org if you think you can help.

6409 1/2 Roosevelt Way N.E.
Seattle, WA 98115
206-523-1206
Online: healingcenterseattle.org

The Brick Recycler

Pexels

If you have a LEGO lover in your life who's ready to release his or her (millions) of LEGO bricks and figurines, do not put them in your normal "donate box." Organizations like the Goodwill, Salvation Army, etc. will just throw them away if they're not in a complete set and if you try to recycle them, the city will sort them out and send them to the landfill. Give your LEGOs a new lease on life by sending them to the Brick Recycler. They will then send sets of LEGOs to schools in low-income areas, foster care programs, hospitals, and other organizations are also in need of LEGO sets but don’t have the money to buy them. You can ship them your mixed bag of LEGOs (for free if you ship via ground service including UPS Ground and FedEx Ground) and they'll sort and pass your bricks along to future builders. What a brick-tastic idea!

Address shipments to:
Brick Recycler c/o Guaranteed Express
652 N. King Rd.
San Jose, CA 95133

Online: brickrecycler.com

Before Donating, Please…

where to donate toys clothes in Seattle
Treehouse

Before you start your post-nap time stealth purge of the toy bin or (gasp!) before enlisting the kids in selecting a few of their treasures to share with a child in need, here are a few tips for donating used toys:

1. Make your donations count by only offering items that are truly "gently used" and in good working order. Almost all organizations will throw away broken, stained or otherwise unusable toys, clothes or other donations, including toys missing any of their parts. St. Vincent de Paul estimates their annual garbage bill at over $60,000 because of unsellable items that include things like shirts with stains or broken zippers or puzzles with missing pieces. Hint: Local subscription service, Ridwell is a great place to threadcycle non-wearable clothing.

2. Don't donate toys or items that have been recalled. Those drop-side cribs are a no-no, even if it was a gorgeous family heirloom that all your kiddos slept safely in.

3. Put fresh batteries in automated toys. Or include a new pack of batteries with your donation.

4. Sort your donations. Though it isn't a requirement, it really helps the donation stations process donations when items are pre-sorted. For an example, place all clothing in one bag and shoes in another. 

5. Double check on questionable items. Plush animals are frequently not accepted due to allergens. Big-ticket items like play furniture or outdoor play equipment may not be accepted as many organizations don't have room to store these biggies, so you might want to give your local organization a call before you haul it over there. (Don't stress! We have some options below for such cases.)

6. Don't forget to ask for a receipt. Most places will give you a tax deduction for your donation, so ask for a receipt!

—Jeffrey Totey, Kristina Moy & Katie Gruver

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5 Things Every Parent Should Know When Starting Baby on Solids

by Dahlia Rimmon, MS, RDN

Right when you’ve finally mastered the art of milk feeds—bam! Solid food enters the chat. If you’re feeling a bit lost amid this parenting curveball, you’re not alone, but rest assured that we’re here to help. As a dietitian, I’ve pulled together a list of tips and tricks to make your transition while starting baby on solids a piece of cake (or a spoonful of mashed avocado). Hold onto your aprons; it’s time for a messy adventure!

1. Know when baby’s ready.

The first step is to wait until your baby is developmentally ready for solid food. Look out for the following signs of readiness, which usually pop up around the 6-month mark:

  • Baby can sit with minimal support
  • Baby has steady head control
  • Baby is super interested in food and watching you eat
  • Baby has mastered bringing objects to mouth

Keep in mind that the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends sticking exclusively to breastmilk or formula for the first six months so there’s no need to rush onto the solid food scene. Savor those cozy milky moments.

2. Master the schedule.

There’s no mom math more challenging than mastering your baby’s schedule—finding that sweet spot for solid food between naps and milk feeds is no easy feat! Our go-to suggestion? Aim to introduce solid food about 30-90 minutes before or after a milk feed. It’s all about finding the happy zone, when your babe is hungry enough (but not hangry!) for solids but not too filled up on milk. If milk is liquid gold, timing is platinum.

photo: iStock/LightFieldStudios 

3. Safety is key

While babies can enjoy most foods, there’s definitely a list of no-nos. Honey, for example, is off the table for babies under one due to the risk of containing spores of Clostridium botulinum, which could lead to infant botulism. Your in-laws may suggest mixing infant cereal into bottles for better sleep, but nope, that’s outdated advice because it’s a choking hazard. Plus, it’s important to learn the ropes of baby-friendly textures and shapes to minimize the risk of choking.

4. Offer the rainbow

Unlike the old-school approach of serving the same food for three days in a row, it’s totally OK to offer more variety right from the start. Introducing littles to different food groups—protein, fruit, veggies, grains—will expose them to a rainbow of color, nutrition, texture, and flavor. Trust me, grooming your future foodie is the ultimate goal.

5. Embrace the mess

Let those little hands dive into food fun! The mess isn’t just chaos; it’s an introduction to a whole new sensory adventure. Babies get to know the ins and outs of food through touch, smell, and, of course, shmearing it all over the place. It’s a helpful segue before taking that first taste plunge, so chuck the fancy bibs aside, strip them down to their diapers, and let the mess unfold! Tip: throw a splat mat or disposable tablecloth under the highchair to make clean up a whole lot easier!

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7 Tips to Prep, Pack & Fly with Kids

By Ruthi Davis

Dear Confessional,

The dreaded flight with kids—over-tired, fussy, hungry, thirsty, bored, bathroom, ears hurting, crying, tantrums, bathroom again, kicking the seat in front, “are we there yet”, too hot, too cold, bathroom yet again—can be a recipe for meltdowns galore. Then just when you are about to land, your kid finally falls asleep and refuses to walk… luggage, child, and headache in tow. The thought actually makes my stomach turn. I think it’s safe to say that most of us parents have been there. After countless global travel with our four young children (including relocating to three different countries and four states), it’s safe to say that our family has been through many ridiculous scenarios and learned how to prepare like a pro.

While many of you have already been privileged enough to dig your heels in the sand for the Summer holiday, some are still inching closer to that exciting last day of school. Either way, vacation plans are likely in full throttle and weather updates on close standby. Thankfully, throughout most of my mistakes, I have survived and thrived… so I’m happy to share my top strategies to surviving the prep, flight, and jet lag.

1.  Don’t tire over the attire

Packing for the family can be exhausting and overwhelming. It’s the “sit and stare” approach—too many weather variables, too many different types of dress required, no washing machine, and making sure to have enough (but not too much) that will get you blankly staring for a good half hour until any progress happens. This technique will certainly get you nowhere fast, without much time to finish. Here’s my plan instead:

  • Check the weather forecast.
  • Know your itinerary and duration of trip.
  • Pack the pyjamas first (easiest way to get started), and consider reusability to minimize over-packing.
  • Plan kids’ outfits according to the number of days and necessity. Consider reusability in pants and sweaters. * Bring a couple of “fancy” outfits in case.
  • Make sure that you have enough total outfits to mix-and-match for the duration of the trip. When that’s settled, add one or two more easy extras in case of unexpected spillage.
  • Organize the stacks of clothes for easy accessibility.
  • Make sure to bring a few garbage bags to make laundry collection organized and simple.
  • Shower caps are great for covering the bottom of shoes for packing.
  • Use zip-lock bags to contain any toiletries for extra protection, and bring extra for the return trip.

2.  Emergency prep

Expect the unexpected. Be prepared and bring most of these items in your carry-on luggage.

  • Thermometer
  • Pain Reliever/Fever Reducer (for adults and flavored for children)
  • Plasters/Band-Aids
  • Antiseptic cream
  • Antihistamine in case of unexpected allergy
  • Tissues
  • Saline Spray
  • Daily Vitamins (optional)
  • Eye/Ear Drops for kids (optional)
  • Diaper Cream (not just for diaper rash, but also works for scrapes and eczema)
  • Emergency tooth fairy gift (optional – depending on age and tradition)
  • Tampons and sanitary napkins
  • Emergency outfit change for the kids (including socks and underwear) in case of accidental spillage/leakage of any kind.

3.  Smart snack

Please keep in mind that what you feed your kids is what you will get out of them. Sugary, artificially flavored, and food coloring-soaked foods may result in a hyper child who crashes with a nasty tantrum. Snacks can be fun AND healthy-ish enough for a flight.

  • Baby cereal flavoured puffs (kids of all ages love to munch on these).
  • Mini rice-cakes for snacking.
  • Freeze-dried or regular dried fruit.
  • Real fruit gummies (special treat during take-off or extreme moment, but beware as too many packs may induce a hyper child with loose stool).
  • Make sure to buy some bottled water after passing the security line, before the flight, to avoid a sudden thirst emergency before take-off. 
  • Special Treat: one or two non-healthy treats (lollipop, candy) to be reserved for hurricane-grade tantrum, head-spinning moments.
  • Granola or protein bars for an energy boost.
  • Applesauce or fruit/veggie squeeze packs.
  • Fresh fruit with careful packing to avoid unintended squishing or rotting.
  • Depending on the duration of your flight, feel free to pack any additional refrigerated snacks in a lunch sack with ice pack.

4.  Entertainment tools

Make sure to find out if your flight offers individual monitors. This makes a BIG difference in entertainment planning. 

  • If the flight does not have a monitor, bring your own and make sure it’s charged (don’t forget to bring the charger). Feel free to download a new movie or game for extra appeal.
  • Clearance isles work fabulously to create a private stash of stickers, non-messy crafts, coloring, small cars, small toys, and travel-sized board games.
  • Have each child pack a few favorite items (i.e., stuffed animal, small toys, and crafts) to play on-board.
  • For older children, bring a new chapter book for a good hour of quiet time.

5.  Pre-board rituals

  • Depending on how many children are traveling, please discuss window, isle, and middle seating arrangements BEFORE the flight.
  • Plan which children and parents will be sitting side-by-side to avoid any arguments on-board.
  • Review expectations in behavior, snacks, and sleeping schedules.
  • Make sure that everyone uses the toilet before the flight!
  • Buy any warm meals and/or drinks before boarding.
  • Get their energy out! Plan enough time for the kids to walk, run, and play for a bit before the flight. We’ve even played a family game of Duck, Duck, Goose before a long flight. Whatever you do, keep it safe and as non-annoying to others as possible. This bullet point alone may be just as important as the flight itself.

6. Take-off to-do’s

  • Have a lollipop ready for the take-off, as this is the time that ear-aches may ensue. Sucking will help to minimise ear pain and pressure.
  • Teach children how to “blow air into their cheeks” to help eliminate the discomfort in the ears.
  • Make taking-off a game to avoid nervous crying. If you’re familiar with “The Little Einsteins” cartoon, our family pretends that the airplane is “Rocket” and we sing the “pat, clap” chant until take-off. This worked for all four children.
  • For children with travel sickness or sensitive tummies from the cabin odor or change in air pressure, peppermint oil works well to alleviate nausea and upset stomachs. Bring some mint lozenges to help.

7.  Avoiding jet lag

  • Carefully review the travel, arrival, time zone details and determine whether your child should try to nap on the flight or stay awake.
  • Try to maintain the child awake if you’re arriving to your destination closer to bedtime. For a long flight, the earlier nap, in this case, the better.
  • If a child will experience nighttime on the flight, try to mimic a semblance of your nighttime routine (i.e., reading a story, back rub, blanket, special cuddle toy) to encourage a deep sleep.

Wishing you many safe travels and a bon voyage!

with Love,

Ruthi

Ruthi Davis is a the Founder of Ruth Davis Consulting LLC with over two decades of success in advertising/marketing, media/publicity, business development, client relations, and organizational optimization for a variety of clients. Ruthi is a proud mom and influencer in the parenting and family market as founder of the Superfly Supermom brand.

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Baby-Friendly Recipes for Introducing Peanuts, Walnuts & More

by Julie Seguss

When can babies have peanut butter and tree nuts? We worry about choking hazards and hear horror stories about peanut and tree nut allergies. But with recent studies suggesting that introducing peanuts early on (at 6 months when babies start solid foods) can help prevent peanut allergies, it’s bound to make a new mom feel a bit nutty about how and when to give these protein powerhouses to our little ones.

If you have food allergies in your family or are concerned about introducing nuts, talk to your pediatrician first. And if you’re ready to whip up some easy, deliciously nutty treats, read on for 10 recipes for purees, muffins and more, packed with peanuts, walnuts, almonds and other nuts.

Apple Walnut Puree no text

photo: Weelicious

1. Apple Walnut Puree: You can mix finely chopped nuts into any baby puree, but this recipe comes out particularly nice. Steam apples and walnuts, and then puree in a food processor with cinnamon. Get the recipe from Weelicious.

2. Chia Almond Butter Overnight Oats: Make this protein-packed breakfast treat from Kristine’s Kitchen the night before or a few days ahead to simplify your mornings. The recipe combines healthy oats, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, almond butter and milk into a creamy dish you can top with finely chopped berries or banana for sweetness and additional nutrients.

3. Nut Butter Baby Cereal: Mix 1/2 teaspoon nut butter (peanut, almond or cashew work well) with baby rice or oatmeal cereal to add more flavor and nutrition to this basic first food.

4. Creamy Dreamy Peanut Milk Smoothie: Bananas and peanut butter make for a classic smoothie. This variation from the National Peanut Board uses peanut milk and ups the nutritional value with wheat germ and frozen cauliflower.

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Photo: Smart Nutrition

5. Almond Flour Homemade Baby Biscuits: These small cookies are easy for babies to pick up and nibble on. They contain nutrient-rich ingredients such as banana (or applesauce), egg yolks, iron-fortified infant cereal and almond flour. Get the recipe from Smart Nutrition.

6. Peanut Butter Banana Muffins: Give your baby a yummy, peanut-y finger food with this muffin recipe featuring peanut butter, carrot puree, mashed bananas and whole wheat flour. Get the recipe from The Tasty Cheapskate.

asian-peanut-sauce-crop

photo: Your Kids Table

7. Asian Peanut Sauce: Create a non-spicy peanut sauce you can drizzle on rice or noodles. And when your child gets older, use it as a dip for veggies like carrot sticks, celery or steamed broccoli. Get the recipe at Your Kids Table.

8. Super Nutty Butternut Squash Puree: Walnuts add healthy fats and rich flavor to squash puree. Steam and puree 1 cup chopped butternut squash, 3 peeled and chopped carrots and 1 chopped apple. Then, blend in 1 to 2 tablespoons finely chopped walnuts and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon.

oatmeal cookies

photo: Feel Great in 8

9. 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Banana Cookies: This easy-peasy recipe combines bananas, oats and natural peanut butter (or peanut butter powder) for a delicious, healthy cookie. Add chocolate chips, raisins, cinnamon or coconut for additional flavor. Get the recipe from Feel Great in 8.

10. Paleo Cashew Pancakes: Grain free and filled with goodness, these pancakes are sure to be a hit with a list of ingredients including cashew meal, cinnamon, eggs, coconut milk and coconut oil. Find the full recipe on Everyday Maven.

—Julie Seguss

featured photo: piviso via Pixabay

 

RELATED STORIES:

Eat the Rainbow with These Toddler-Friendly Healthy Recipes

Banish Bland: 10 Spiced Up Baby Vegetable Recipes

12 Tasty Recipes for Baby’s First Finger Foods

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