May’s birthstone is known as the “Jewel of Kings”

You know that April showers bring May flowers, but did you know that many people born in May consider themselves to be the happiest and healthiest people around?  Read on to find out why May-born babies are such a hearty lot. And if you’re expecting a May babe, check out this list of adorable names just for people born in May. 

1. People born in May consider themselves to be lucky.

According to a survey of nearly 30,000 participants, respondents were asked to rate how lucky they thought they were. The findings showed that people born in the summer are more likely to consider themselves lucky than those born in the winter. May-born respondents said they were the luckiest, while people born in November were the most pessimistic.

2. People born in May claim either the Taurus or Gemini zodiac sign.

If you have a birthday of April 20 – May 20, you were born under the sign of Taurus. If your May birthday is May 21 or after, you were born under the sign of Gemini.

3. May babies are driven to succeed.

Strong-willed and achievement-oriented people born in May under the sign of Taurus seem to possess an innate sixth sense that helps them navigate through life. Like their Taurus counterparts born in April, those born in May can be stubborn, but their critical, systematic ways of thinking help them get stuff done.

4. People born in May often have wanderlust.

Restless and curious, people born in May are always itching to explore the world. They often lead exhausting and busy lives that incorporate adventure and work, but they are the last to complain about their hectic lifestyles. For May-born people bitten by the travel bug, exploration isn’t simply a distraction, it’s a way of life.

5. People born in May are fun to be around. 

If you claim Gemini as your astrological sign, there’s a good chance you are chatty, enthusiastic, full of energy, and always looking to join the party. While this can be exhausting for some, everyone needs that go-go-go person in their lives.

6. May babies tend to be tinier than babies born in other months.

According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, babies born in May tend to be shorter, lighter, and have smaller heads, which scientists think is related to the amount of vitamin D the mother gets while pregnant.

7. The birthstone for May represents royalty, eloquence, and foresight. 

May’s birthstone, the emerald, is known as the “Jewel of Kings.” Beloved by royal figures throughout history, the most famous might be Cleopatra, who was said to shower this precious gem on visiting dignitaries. It was thought to reveal the truth and was used to ward off spells. People also thought, if worn, it would increase riches and allow the wearer to predict the future.

8. They share their birth month with plenty of famous people born in May.

There are quite a few celebrities born in May, including Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Robert Downey Jr., Adele, Cate Blanchett, Stevie Wonder, Ian McKellen, and Octavia Spencer.

Related: This Is Why September Babies Are More Successful, According to Science

 

WildLanterns at Woodland Park Zoo is always worth the trip. Make your plans to see this whimsical winter light display now

Winter nights are settling in and that can only mean one thing—light displays are popping up all over Seattle. We know families are excited that Woodland Park Zoo’s WildLanterns will be returning for its 2022 season. We’re excited too. This year’s larger-than-life display will feature new lanterns, plus some that you’ll recognize from year’s past. But one thing is guaranteed—it will knock your kiddo’s socks off.

Get a sneak peek of Tinybeans’ writer, Kathryn Mueller’s experience at WildLanterns at Woodland Park Zoo. Then read on to find out more and make your family’s plans.

WildLanterns—What to Expect This Year

Everyone new favorite light experience—WildLanterns—is returning to Woodland Park Zoo for the 2022 season. If you made the trek last year or the year before (or both!) and loved it, put a return visit on your calendar because you'll see new lanterns alongside your favorite from past years when you visit. Families will be welcomed through four themed zones where they'll encounter lighted animals and plants lining the zoo’s walking paths, at kiddo eye height and towering overhead.

Along the way you'll encounter All About Bugs, where you'll feel smaller than ever among gorgeous and oversized dragonflies, bunnies, and plants before making your way through the glowing Garden Delights. Up next are the big animals. You'll find these fascinating creatures as you take a Walk Among African Animals or go on an Asian Safari. It's where you'll find wow-worthy animals like tigers and orangutans, plus coo-worthy red pandas (a favorite with kids these days). Make Oceania Animal Odyssey your final lantern destination. It's full of Southern Hemisphere faves like cuddly koalas, kangaroos, and colorful parrots.

We suggest families plan about 90 minutes to walk the whole loop with your little adventurers.

Related: Watts Up: Seattle's Best Holiday Light Displays

kids run toward a lighted tree at WildLanterns seattle at woodland park zoo
Kathryn Mueller

Sensory-friendly Experiences at WildLanterns

This year WildLanterns has added three sensory friendly evenings in an effort to make WildLanterns more accessible. Low-sensory experiences, activities, and other resources help to make everyone who heads to the display feel comfortable. On these nights, Zoomazium will transform into Zoomazium NightLights where families can find low lighting, soft nature sounds playing, and sensory toys, like a giant Light Bright, set out to use.

Plan to attend one of these special evenings on November 16, December 13, or January 12. 

Related: 12 Places Where Kids of All Abilities Can Play

Kathryn Mueller

Wild Programs & Experiences

During your visit, make sure to stop by the carousel for an always-fun spin. Riding the carousel at night is a whole new experience as far as your Littles are concerned. Plus, like past years, there will be interactive zones providing delight to lantern enthusiasts of all ages. Head to the middle of the zoo to find these features that are just as engaging as they mechanical lanterns that captivate everyone's attention as you make your way around the zoo.

kids pose in front of a giant insect at Wildanterns seattle at woodland park zoo
Kathryn Mueller

What to Bring

Plan your WildLanterns visit like you do other zoo trips and you’ll have everything you need to keep your wee ones happy. The zoo’s wide paths were made for strollers, so be sure to have yours on hand for just-walkers or sleepy toddlers who need a rest. Outside, rain or shine, is the name of this game, so dress for the weather, with plenty of layers (hats and gloves), rain gear and snuggly stroller blankets to keep kids warm and dry. Don’t forget to throw your trusty umbrella into the mix too. Snacks are allowed and face masks are a must. Last but not least, make sure you’ve got room on your phone for all the cute pics.

Kathryn Mueller

Where to eat

If all this lantern gazing has your crew’s tummies rumbling, families can find plenty of food options at the zoo. 1889 Pizza and the Wild Cup will be open and a couple of pop-up kiosks will have food items for sale too. Plus, like other zoo events, families are welcome to bring their own food and drink to enjoy on-site. 

Good to Know:
1. Timed tickets are required for the event, and they sell out fast, so grab yours while you still can!

2. If early works best for your kids, you’re in luck. Even if you get the earliest ticket time spot, it’s dark enough to enjoy this experience. Plus, by the time you head out, the lanterns will be at their magical best, and you’ll still have the kids home by bedtime. 

3. Families will be welcomed at the West Entrance only, where the experience begins.

Dates: Nov. 11, 2022-Jan. 1, 2023; closed Mondays (except for Dec.19 & 26) and Nov. 25, Dec. 24 & 25
Hours: 4-9 p.m. (last entry at 8:30 p.m.)

Woodland Park Zoo
5500 Phinney Ave. N.
Seattle
Event details

And that doesn’t include college

New estimates show that inflation isn’t just jacking up the cost of groceries and gasoline, but childrearing, too. The cost to raise a child for a two-parent, married family with two kids on a middle income? Over $310,000.

The Brookings Institution‘s estimate addresses children born in 2015 and spans all the costs through the age of 17. And spoiler alert: it doesn’t include any costs for sending your kids to college.

That $310K price tag has jumped $80,000 from 2017, which equals out to be over $18K per year.  Expenses that fit into the increase are plentiful and include child care, healthcare, housing, food clothing, haircuts, diapers and other must-haves like sports and lessons.

Related: 16 Ways to Shop Smart & Save Money on Groceries

iStock

So how did experts arrive at that number? It came down to using an average inflation rate of 2.23% (2015-2020), plus another 1.77% for the last two years. Thank you, recession!

“The new estimate only crunches numbers for middle-income, married parents, and doesn’t include projections for single parent households, or consider how race factors into cost challenges” reports The Hill. The cost for those family dynamics are even more bleak.

“Rising expenses for raising a family could disproportionately affect lower-income families. For a single parent earning $20,000 or $30,000 a year, shelling out the extra funds for a child might be difficult,” says said Dr. Isabel Sawhill, a senior fellow at Brookings.

For Black families, the Opportunity & Inclusive Growth Institute found that “that Black households are more exposed to inflation fluctuations than White households.” The Wall Street Journals says that “can make it difficult for households to determine how much the money they earn will buy.”

At the end of the day, no one enters parenthood thinking they are going to get off cheap. But for the next generation, we’re betting they’ll think long and hard about opening the purse strings before having kids.

Fireflies, popsicles and outdoor movies: the summer trifecta is upon us. Is there any better way to enjoy friends and flicks than on a blanket under the stars? We don’t think so. So, grab your bug spray, folding chairs, picnic baskets and blankets, and head out to enjoy an evening of outdoor movies this summer. Keep reading for the best places to catch an outdoor movie in Atlanta.

iStock

Inside the Perimeter

Movies by Moonlight
This classic family event has created a fun festival atmosphere that appeals to children of all ages. So picnic on the Green, sit on your blanket, lawn chair, or one of the surrounding swings, tables, and chairs, and enjoy the latest in family cinema. Food Trucks arrive at 6 pm, and there’s pre-movie fun at 6:30 pm. The movie starts at dusk.

August 6 – Black Panther
August 13 – Shrek
August 20 – Raya and the Dragon

1 Galambos Way
Sandy Springs
Online: leadershipsandysprings.org

Screen on the Green
Twice a month, plan to enjoy a different family-friendly film on a giant outdoor screen. Bring your blankets and chairs and choose your place to sit on the lawn.

June 23 – Luca
July 7 – Spongebob SquarePants Movie
July 21 – King Richard
August 11 – Back To The Future 

1380 Atlantic Dr. NW,
Atlanta
Online: atlanticstation.com

Town Brookhaven
Head to Town Brookhaven, where movies start at dusk, and every show on the big screen is family-friendly.

June 23 – Father of the Bride
June 30 – Mean Girls
July 14 – Cruella
July 21 – Jungle Cruise

4330 Peachtree Rd. NE
Brookhaven
Online: townbrookhaven.net

Movies on the Square
You’ll find family-friendly flicks at Midtown’s Colony Square at the start of each month through October.

July 7 – The Sandlot
August 4 – High School Musical
September 1 – Ratatouille
October 6 – Halloween Town

1197 Peachtree St. NE
Midtown
Online: colonysquare.com

 

Outside the Perimeter

Movies at Newtown Park
Movies begin at dusk. The gate opens at 6:45 pm for pre-show activities.

July 8: Sing 2 – (Movie location: North Pond at Creekside Park, behind City Hall, 11360 Lakefield Drive)
August 12 – Movie title TBD

3150 Old Alabama Rd.
Johns Creek
Online: johnscreekga.gov

Movie Under the Stars
The Bowl at Sugar Hill hosts a family movie night in the award-winning amphitheater, which runs through October.

June 24 – Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark
July 8 – School of Rock
August 12 – Grease
September 9 – A League of Their Own
October 28 – Haunted Mansion

5039 W. Broad St.
Sugar Hill
Online: thebowlatsugarhill.com

Outdoor Movie Series at Swift-Cantrell Park
The 2022 Kennesaw Outdoor Movie Series continues with more family-friendly flicks at Swift-Cantrell Park in Kennesaw. The inflatable screen lights up at dark, so arrive early (around 6 pm) for games, activities, fun, and more. Admission is free, but concessions and some activities have an extra charge.

July 23 – Sing 2

3140 Old 41 Hwy. NW
Kennesaw
Online: Kennesaw.com

Feature Fridays
Kick back, relax on the Lawrenceville Lawn before the show, and enjoy a family-friendly flick at dusk. Come as early as 7 pm to get your spot ready.

July 29 – Matilda
August 26 – Cinderella

210 Luckie St.
Lawrenceville
Online: downtownlawrencevillega.com

Flicks on the Bricks
Movies begin on the Duluth Town Green at 8 pm, and you can pack your picnic or pick up a pre-made dinner at one of the square’s delectable offerings.

August 5 – Aladdin
September 2 – Charlie & The Chocolate Factory

3142 Hill St. NW
Duluth
Online: duluthga.net

Flicks on the Green in Peachtree Corners
Head to the Town Green for Flicks on the Green, a free movie series. This year, get ready to celebrate all things super—Mark your calendar for the first Saturday of each month, May through October. Movies will begin at 7 pm. Bring a blanket, stretch out on the lawn, and experience movies under the stars. Grab food from your favorite Town Green restaurants and picnic. The Red Popcorn Wagon will have popcorn, sweet treats, and beverages for sale from their iconic wagon.

July 2 – Big Hero 6
August 6 – Megamind
September 3 – Captain America: The First Avenger
October 1 – Lego Batman Movie 

5140 Town Center Blvd.
Peachtree Corners
Online: peachtreecornersga.gov

 

Fun & Cheap Movies That Aren’t Necessarily Outdoors

2022 Regal Summer Movie Express
With nine Atlanta locations, you’re guaranteed to find one playing a show that’ll delight your crowd of movie critics. In addition, you can catch a family flick for $2 on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Movie Tavern by Marcus Theatres
Find Movie Taverns in Roswell, Tucker, and Suwanee, where you can see a movie for just $5 on Tuesdays.

Starlight Drive-In Theatre
Step back in time and watch a movie from your car at this classic Atlanta drive-in theatre. Ages 10 and older, $10; ages 5-9, $1.

2000 Moreland Ave. SE
Atlanta

Picture Show at Merchants Exchange
On Tuesdays, tickets are half-price at $4.50, or you can see a movie for $1 on Mondays and Wednesdays at 9:15 am during the Summer Movie Series.

4400 Roswell Rd.
Marietta

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When it comes to pitching a tent in the woods, throw in a few 10 and under campers, and it’s a whole new bag of tricks. There are all sorts of head-scratching issues: puzzling sleep situations, food prep problems, and dealing with So. Much. Gear. Thankfully, with these clever camping hacks, fresh air adventures with your pint-sized explorers can be relaxing and fun (we swear!). Scroll down to see them all.

Make Way for Baby

A Little Campy

Create an instantly baby-friendly floor by laying down a set of foam tiles. Your little one's knees will thank you.

Up Your S'mores Game

Whether you swap out the chocolate bars for peanut butter cups or you use this brilliant idea above, you need to bring some s'more along with you. Here are some of our favorite ways to make your s'mores next-level delicious. 

Stop Bug Bites

Sallye Ander

Keeping the bugs at bay is a top priority when it comes to camping. No one wants to spend the trip scratching itchy bites! That's why a "No-Bite-Me" bug cream is the way to go. With 18 essential oils and a formula that is safe for both people and pets, the bugs will have nothing on you. Check out Sallye Ander to get a deet-free version that works for preventing bites and soothing existing ones.

We also love the Bug Bite Thing when you catch a bite right after it has happened. Suck out all the bad stuff and you'll be a happy camper. Bonus: This fun item is also great for splinter removal! 

Pack Tiny Towels

Matador

This microfiber towel not only fits in the palm of your hand, but it's quick-drying and super absorbent, too, which makes for easy cleanup. You can throw it in your pocket or clip it to your day pack. Here's a great version for under $20.  

Stack Your Spices

Use small, stackable plastic containers for spices. That way, you won’t have to drag your entire rack along for the trip. Or better yet, go green and reuse some Tic Tac containers! 

Bring Duct Tape

Edward Virvel via Unsplash

If there’s one thing that can get you out of the woods, it’s duct tape. Use it as an emergency band-aid, tent patch, flashlight holder and much more.

Power Up!

Life Made Sweeter

Make a batch (or two) of energy bites. They’re compact, full of protein that’ll keep little bellies full while out hiking, and most of them don’t require refrigeration. Need a little inspiration? Check out our favorite recipes here.

Bring Your Own Shade

There's nothing that derails a camping trip faster than hot, tired kids. Pack a pop-up sun canopy like this one or go DIY and string a tarp between your car and a tree. 

Use Your Six-Pack

RoseMarie Massaro Home Confetti

After stashing your bottles in the ice chest, save that six-pack holder to use as a utensil organizer. It folds up and packs away with ease, and you can even get crafty and cover with a fun pattern to add a little decor to your campsite. Find the tutorial over at Home Confetti.

Tell Bugs to Buzz Off

Marco Horvat via Unsplash

Toss a little bundle of sage into the campfire. It’ll keep the mosquitos at bay.

Get Creative at the Campfire

Instructables

Wrap crescent rolls around a barkless Y-shaped stick and cooking it over a fire. Big kids will love to get in on this "baking" action, too. Head over to Instructables to find out more.

Make Clean Up Easy

My Honey's Place

Make single-use soap leaves by running a vegetable peeler along a bar of antibacterial soap. Bonus: In a pinch, you can also rub one of the soap leaves on a mosquito bite to relieve the itchiness.

Stay Organized

Starling Travel

Save yourself serious kitchen hassle by stashing the family's camping must-haves in a shoe organizer.

Protect Your Gear (and Little Fingers)

Brian Green

You can create a safe place to store tent stakes with a single piece of cardboard. Head over to Brian Green for the details. 

Keep TP Dry

Home Talk

Simply slip a roll into an empty and clean coffee can with a lid. It's so genius—we can't believe we didn't think of this first.

An Old Go-To Snack is Now Your Go-To Fire Starter

The Qi Ranger

Research shows that the chemicals in the Doritos flavor powder teamed with the oils in the chips creates the perfect combo for combustion.

Instant Coffee That Doesn't Taste Like Your Parent's Folgers

Chances are once the sun rises, you'll be desperate for some caffeine, and stat. No Starbucks or coffee maker? No problem! Pack along single-serve pouches of Waka Coffee. This freeze-dried instant coffee is made of 100% high-quality Arabica beans, sourced from Columbia and packaged in California (translation: it tastes great). 

No time to order? No problem! You can also DIY your own coffee packets and all you need is hot water to get your morning going. 

—Kate Loweth, Gabby Cullen & Ayren Jackson-Cannady

 

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America’s largest urban forest is located right in Portland families’ back yard, and it is a gorgeous place to be through the autumn months. Located in the heart of the city, Forest Park is brimming with colorful hikes for local families to explore. With almost 100 miles of trails within the park, your crew can hit a different trail each week throughout the fall months. Read on to find our pick of the best Forest Park hikes for families.

Shea R. via Flickr

1. NW Skyline Blvd to BPA Road (2 miles)
This relatively effortless, two mile Forest Park hike is easy to access from NW Skyline Blvd. from BPA Road. Here, look for the signs for Firelane 13 to reach the flat, lookout area with picnic tables. Don't forget to pack in your lunch to enjoy from the overlook! On a clear day, you can even spot Mt. Rainier and Mt. St. Helens.

Ages: Appropriate for all ages (you can even take baby in a backpack carrier)

2. Lower Macleay Park to Pittock Mansion (5.3 miles)
The hike to Pittock Mansion from Lower Macleay Park is a bit of a climb (an elevation gain of nearly a thousand feet), and is more difficult in nature at 5.3 miles round trip—but this hike has it all! You'll find street parking near the park entrance on NW 29th and Upshur, plus the park has picnic tables and restrooms. The hike itself is parallel to a lovely gurgling river bank, and the trail is paved. A highlight is the mysterious Stone House, for a fun photo op, where you can either opt to return on the Wildwood Trail or soldier on. If you opt to continue, you'll ultimate reach Pittock Mansion, with stunning views of the city that are sure to impress along this Forest Park hike.

Ages: 6 years and up

3. Lower Maple Trail Loop (3 mile loop)
From Hwy 30, turn on to Saltzman Road, and follow the winding residential road up to the top. Now, follow the Saltzman Road trail head to the Maple Trail, then go right on the Leif Erikson Trail. Return to the beginning via Maple, and you'll have taken one healthy, three mile loop. While the directions may sound complicated, it's a fun quest and sign exploration game for older children to participate in, plus they'll love the forested paths with birds, slugs and bugs. (Don't forget your bug spray!)

Ages: All ages

Emily U via Yelp

4. The Big Stump (2 miles or 6 miles)
Turn on to Old Springville Rd. from Skyline Rd. to reach the parking area and Wildwood trail head. There, you'll follow Fire Lane 7 to the the Hardesty Trail, reaching The Big Stump (which is exactly what it sounds like—kids love it!). To return, either follow your inbound route, or if you're feeling very ambitious, opt to loop to the Wildwood Trail, then Ridge Trail, back to Fire Lane 7. Depending on your course, this will take you either two miles and less than two hours, or a few more hours to do the six mile loop.

Ages: 2 mile loop is appropriate for all ages. 6 mile loop is best for 7 years and up.

5. Audubon Society Hikes (1-5 miles)
If you have a novice avian expert in your family, check out the Audubon Society of Portland at 5151 NW Cornell Rd. From here, you can take an easy, 1.3 mile stroll from the Founders Trail to the North Collins Trail to hear and view wild woodpeckers and over 40 species of other birds. The 150 acre nature preserve surrounding the Audubon Society has four miles of hiking paths, plus onsite restrooms and a store to pick up a birding guide. 

Ages: All ages

6. The Wildwood–Newton Loop (1 mile)
Last but not least, your little tree hugger will love the Wildwood Trail! This round-trip loop is about a mile and easy enough for smaller legs. From Skyline Blvd, turn on to NW Newton Road and park. Then walk right on the first path, to the Wildwood Trail. From here, head south on Wildwood. To return, take a right onto Fire Lane 10. Along the Wildwood Trail, you'll find a hollowed-out tree that little ones will love to tuck inside for a fun photo.

Ages: All Ages

 

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When it comes to pantry organization, there are few hard and fast rules to follow, like group like items together, clean out expired products regularly and place the most often used items within reach. But if you want to really level up your pantry storage and make it the most efficient space ever, you’ve got to try these storage hacks. It may just become your favorite area in the house!

Pantry Storage Hack #1: Use Clear Containers

Experts unanimously agree—if there is one pantry storage hack you must do to make your life better (and not just for aesthetics), it's to take everything you can out of the box, put it into clear jars or containers, and label them. The choice of container is up to you, whether you prefer glass canisters for a more farm-style look or a more modern, minimalistic take, but the real reason to do institute this change? As gross as it sounds, this is the best way to avoid bug infestations—you can easily see if there's a problem in your flour, sugar, oats or pancake mix without contaminating your whole pantry.

Pro Tip: Look for wide-mouth jars so the goods are easy to get and ones with lids that have a seal.

Buy glass canisters here.

Buy OXO Pop-Up containers here.

Pantry Storage Hack #2: Use Lazy Susans

One of our favorite pantry organization hacks of all time is adding a lazy Susan (or two or three) to pantry shelves. Not only does this little spinner save space, but bottles also won't get lost in the back corner, and the handy handles make carrying it in and out of the pantry easy peasy.

Buy it here, $20.

 

Pantry Storage Hack #3: Install Colorful Wallpaper

Organizing pantry storage starts with pulling everything out, throwing out expired products, donating any non-perishables you know you aren't going to use and wiping down the shelves. But before you put everything back (in an organized manner, of course), why not add a cheerful wallpaper to the walls? What is typically a dark, uninviting space is now fun, bright and welcoming.

While this wallpaper is out of stock, we love these peel and stick options from Etsy.

Buy it here, $33 & up.

Pantry Storage Hack #4: Install Lighting

Sometimes, not even a bright colorful wallpaper can help a dark space. If that's the case, you can easily install lighting (no electrician required!) with motion-sensor, battery-operated LED lights that will brighten all those shadowy corners in less than ten minutes.

Buy it here, $55.

Pantry Storage Hack #5: Repurpose Magazine Holders

File this under "Brilliant." These wire magazine holders have been reimagined as produce containers! The wire frame allows sufficient airflow to keep veggies from rotting, and the depth of the magazine racks was designed to fit on shelves. 

Buy it here, $13.

Pantry Storage Hack #6: Contain Items in Baskets

For larger items that are hard to contain (we're looking at you, bags and bags of Pirate Booty), or items you don't need access to all that often (food processor parts), add a couple of baskets with handles to the shelves. These beauties also stack, so if your shelf height allows it, you can add a few on top of each other—just add labels, so you know what's inside without having to pull each of them down to sort through them.

Buy it here, $54 & up.

Pantry Storage Hack #7: Spice Space Saver

Got a thing for spice? We do too, which is why this clever spice rack is by far one of the best pantry organization hacks we've seen yet. Take advantage of the inside of your cabinet by installing narrow shelves and magnetic plates to keep all your flavors handy yet out of the way. Pro Tip: Make sure to install the racks so they don't run into the shelves on the inside cabinet.

Buy it here, $15.

Pantry Storage Hack #8: Canned Food Containment

pantry hacks
Amazon

Cans may stack easily, but there's nothing worse than trying to get to the bottom can by having to move all the other cans first. This 36-can organizer eliminates that problem and keeps the cans rolling from back to front as you use them. Group like items together, and you'll never get caught without black beans, corn or peas again. 

Buy it here, $33.

Pantry Storage Hack #9: Door Storage

pantry hack
Amazon

Another great use of unused cabinet door space? Acrylic storage bins that can hold awkward-shaped items you need to access regularly like aluminum foil and sandwich baggies.

Buy it here, $13.

feature image: iStock
—Andie Huber

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If you are feeling stressed, grab your family and hop in the car. There’s nothing that lifts your spirits like being out on the open road.

Outdoorsy released its Road to Wellness survey last summer and it found that 94% of North American families are happier and healthier after taking a road trip and spending time outdoors. 

Road trip

According to the survey, 71% of those who had to cancel their summer travel plans due to COVID-19 are now considering alternate vacation options such as a road trip. Of those who responded 70% would rather go on a road trip with family or a significant other rather than going alone. 

Air travel is still a hassle. 65% of parents say that it is easier to drive with children than to fly with 75% of respondents noting their last road trip was a “much needed escape” and would plan to take one again soon. 

Those working from home have caught the travel bug. Remote workers are 2.5 times more likely to say they would take more road trips if they had access to an RV, with 72% reporting they are planning to take more road trips as a result of the widespread work from home policies as a result of the pandemic. 

Parents find that their kids are much more appreciative on road trips. Of those surveyed, 93% said they feel more bonded with their children when on a road trip with 75% adding that their kids say “thank you” more often when on vacation. 

Millennials are 2.13 times more likely than any other generation to spend their COVID-related stimulus funds on a road trip this year and Boomers are 1.8 more likely to opt out of plane travel this year.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

Featured photo: Dino Reichmuth on Unsplash

 

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Making mud pies, digging in the dirt and searching for roly-polies: opportunities for messy playtime in the dirt are endless. Playing in the dirt and mud isn’t just fun outdoor exploration for toddlers. Digging in the dirt gives developing immune systems a boost and nurtures creativity, all while making muddy, messy memories. From making mud bricks to edible “dirt,” you can give your little ones loads of joy with these muddy play ideas for toddlers. And yes, you should plan on your child needing a bath afterwards.

Mud Mama WV

Mud Kitchen
Making mud pies is a classic kid favorite for a reason: It’s good, dirty fun. Mud kitchens bring indoor play kitchens outside for messier creative play. Kids can start mixing up feasts in a mud kitchen when they’re toddlers and continue to host mud-pie tea parties and make dandelion soup for stuffed animal friends for years to come. Like a play kitchen, a mud kitchen can be fancy, or it can be very basic with nothing more than a few bowls and cups. You can order Mud Mama's step-by-step building plan, pictured above after being fully built, for $10 from Etsy or order one that's pre-built. You can also check thrift stores for plastic kitchen sets that can handle being outside in the elements. If you’d like a more temporary mud kitchen set-up, rinse out plastic yogurt containers or butter tubs, throw in a few sturdy spoons, and add a little water and a lot of dirt and voila! Your chef’s mud pie bakery is ready for business!

Mud Bricks
Making mud bricks is easy! Just pack dirt inside egg crates or ice cube trays and leave them in the sun. Experiment with the ratio of water to dirt: a damp but not dripping mix compacts well and creates nice solid bricks for building towers or fairy houses. In a few hours, you’ll have mud bricks that your little one can use to stack and build.

Entertain Your Toddler

Edible “Dirt”
If your toddler puts everything in his/her mouth, there’s a safe way for muddy sensory play. Whip up a batch of this taste-safe mud substitute from Entertain Your Toddler; the website has the direction to make your own. This edible dirt has a secret ingredient you may already have in your house! Mix up the fake mud, put it in a bowl with plastic measuring cups and spoons or plastic toys, and get ready for messy fun.

Clean-Up
Plastic cars, dirt and soapy water. Combine all three for instant fun. First, let your little one get their plastic cars dirty on a muddy race track or dirt-clod-filled construction site. Then, fill a plastic tub with soapy water and you can both scrub those cars clean. If dinosaurs or farm animals are more your kid's speed, swap this in for this mud and bath party.

Hello Wonderful

Garden Grow
Let little ones dig in the dirt and nurture plants with their own custom planter. You can set aside a bare patch of dirt for your little one to dig in and explore, or turn old dump trucks into garden beds a la Hello Wonderful. Fast-growing seeds like cosmos or leafy greens are a fun choice for little ones exploring in the garden, because they sprout so quickly that kids can see the impact of water and sunshine. Add a watering can and a set of sturdy plastic shovels to fuel muddy garden play, whether your little one has a fancy flower bed or just a patch of dandelions to water.

Twin Mom Refreshed

Mud Painting
Feeling ooey gooey mud between your fingers is a fascinating sensory experience for little ones. Babies can try to finger-paint with mud (or chocolate pudding if you want an edible option). Or, collect mud in a bowl and add a few pint-sized sticks and let older toddlers create masterpieces on white paper the way Twin Mom Refreshed suggests. Mud painting is an easy-to-put-together activity that combines nature exploration with fine motor skill development. Holding a tool, like a paintbrush or a stick used as a paintbrush, builds the muscles and coordination little ones will need in a few years when they learn to write.

Mud Sculptures
Think of mud as nature's playdough. Kids can mold it into all kinds of shapes, and even add twigs or leaves to create different textures. Sprinkle in a little biodegradable glitter to make the mixing and molding even more interesting.

Amazon

Bug Hunt
Digging in the dirt for roly-polies is a backyard adventure that’s just right for toddlers. With a bug home like this one, which includes a magnifying glass in the top, your new bug friends will stay safe from toddlers’ grabby hands, and budding young scientists can get a better look at the creatures living in their own backyards. You can also encourage your little ones to make bug habitats of their own by molding mud houses or piling up sticks.

Available on amazon.com, $7.95.

June Admiraal via Unsplash

Mud Puddle
This kind of muddy play is one of the easiest since nature does all the prep work for you. If you can't wait, get the hose to make your own puddles so you and your child can splash around like Peppa Pig. Stomp in the mud, stir it with a stick, float a piece of bark inside itthere’s no end to the fun that toddlers can have with mud puddles. In warm weather, lose the boots and tiptoe through puddles with bare feet. Feeling squishy mud between their toes fascinates many toddlers. Then check out the classic book Mud Puddle for a fun read and follow up your adventures with a bubble bath to get squeaky clean.

 

—Oz Spies

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The day has finally come! Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure is now open!

After a year-long delay due to Covid, the Avengers are ready to assemble at their new home. Red Tricycle got into the new land a day early and got all the details on attractions, character experiences and of course, food. Keep scrolling to see all the details!

The new home of the Marvel Universe superheroes lies on the old site of Bug’s Land, adjacent to Radiator Springs. Guests can enter next to the Guardians of the Galaxy attraction or across from the Grizzly Run waterfalls.

The wide-berthed campus means plenty of space to oogle at the hundreds of tiny details and catch a prime view of Spider-Man literally swinging around, not to mention the Quin jet atop HQ.

The sprawling campus also means plenty of options for interacting with your fave Marvel character. While health and safety protocols are still very much in place, and you may not actually get a hug from Loki, you can still spy plenty of heroes at HQ, the Sanctum or hanging around the Worldwide Engineering Brigade, known as WEB.

When it comes to attractions, every member of the family will want to snag a spot in the virtual queue for WEB SLINGERS, the brand new ride and the first to feature Spider-Man. Pop on a pair of 3D glasses, then get your webs slinging on this interactive ride where you need to help Peter Parker take down the ever-multiplying Spider Bots!

There are plenty of tasty options for food and drinks at the new campus. For sit-down dining, check out the Pym Tasting Kitchen, where we have personally sampled everything on the menu and can attest: it’s all delicious!

The best part? The oversized portions make it great for sharing. Adults can also get beer, wine and beer cocktails next door at the Pym Tasting Lab, where you can also watch the magic of a reverse tap fill your beer from bottom to top.

There are two additional food carts that offer Shawarma and dessert options, all of which have plenty of Avenger film inspiration.

While the Avengers Campus boasts only one new attraction, the brand new space is the first of its kind to bring the Marvel Universe together. Take your time taking in all the detail, enjoying the best food the resort has to offer and getting as close as possible to your heroes.

Top three things parents with younger kiddos need to know?

  1. Wear lots of sunscreen. Since the campus is on the newer side, you won’t find a ton of shade from mature trees. The hot California sun knows no bound on warm days!
  2. Be aware that the vast Marvel universe contains some bad guys. There will be times when scarier characters like Taskmaster will battle your heroes, which could be a little dramatic.
  3. WEB SLINGERS will operate like Rise of the Resistance, where guests must use the Disneyland app to get a spot in a boarding group. No boarding group = no riding! Be sure to try for a spot at 7 a.m. and 12 p.m.

Whenever you get the chance to visit, tell the Avengers we said hi!

––Karly Wood

All photos: Karly Wood for Red Tricycle

 

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