What we say to girls matters. “Our daughters script their stories, at least partially, on how we write them,” says speaker and author Dr. Jody Carrington, Ph.D. “Showing them how we want them to show up in the world while using words that empower them–like “leaders” who are kind and clear, confident, reflective, and responsible—is what they need from us, now more than ever.” While we need to know the phrases that empower the next generation of women, it’s also good to learn what not to say to your daughter.
1. Boys will be boys.
This old-fashioned response to a girl expressing her dislike of a boy’s behavior is toxic. Girls should be taught from a young age that boys shouldn’t get away with unacceptable actions due to their gender. Parents can show their daughters that they take these issues seriously by listening with empathy and taking steps to change the situation.
2. You got lucky.
A Center for Creative Leadership study found that “nearly ½ of all women interviewed attributed their success to ‘luck’ compared to only ⅓ of men.” If we want girls to grow into women who own their achievements, we need to celebrate the work they put into achieving their goals. Did your girl ace her last test? Tell her you’re proud of the way she studied for it. Did she learn a new song on the piano? Celebrate her commitment to regular practice. The more we connect girls’ achievements to their efforts, the easier it will be for them to avoid impostor syndrome as adults.
3. Stop being so bossy.
Telling a girl she’s ‘bossy’ feeds into the stereotype that only boys get to be assertive and girls should be quiet and retiring. Instead, celebrate that she feels confident enough in her opinions to instruct others. Say something like, “You’re so good at making plans for games! Remember that your game should be fun for everybody. Let your friend make some decisions too.” This helps her hone those emerging leadership skills.
4. You would be a lot prettier if you smiled more.
This phrase implies that your daughter’s feelings are less important than looking attractive to everyone else. If you’re worried that your daughter’s overall outlook on life is negative, find ways to discuss the issue without connecting it to her appearance or likeability. “Knowing that they are loved as they help with building self-belief and confidence, especially when others around them are being unkind,” says Dr. Angela Low, a researcher at Child Health BC.
Discuss the long-term consequences of focusing on the negative in every situation. Negative people miss out on the good things in the world because they fail to notice them. Consider starting a gratitude journal with your daughter. Or have her tell you two positive things about a situation every time she says something negative. You’ll not only help her notice the good details in life but also help her regulate the stories she tells herself.
If your daughter shares details about her day-to-day life with you, consider yourself lucky. “Resilience researchers study kids that thrive despite difficult circumstances. These kids have one thing in common–a trusted adult who they believe loves them unconditionally,” Dr. Low says.
“Knowing that an adult has their back no matter what means that they have somewhere to go to seek advice and counsel, when life gets a little overwhelming, or when they make mistakes (as we all do).” Show you’re there for her, even if you’ve heard enough about YouTube and TikTok to last a lifetime. Listen to her now so she will open up to you when it’s crucial, later. If you absolutely can’t listen right away, try saying this: “You’re important to me, and I want to focus on what you have to say. Can you wait for me to finish this task so I can listen to you?”
In this era of competitive parenting, you might find yourself looking at another child who is a better dancer, student, athlete, etc. But telling your child they don’t do XYZ as well as another kid is harmful. It leads kids to feel “less than” which leads to low self-esteem, anxiety, and other issues. Remember, there’s always going to be someone who does something better than all of us, and it’s better to point out their strengths or guide them to the things that interest them, not what might just look good in a social media feed.
7. You should go on a diet.
Want to know how to talk to your daughter about her weight? Don’t. Instead, teach her how her body works and what types of food and exercise make her body healthy, strong, and well-nourished. Make sure she knows that the bodies she sees in magazines and social media have been digitally edited to achieve that look. Talk about society’s pressures on women to look a certain way, even though bodies come in all shapes and sizes.
Compliment her for the things her body can do. And make sure you talk about how proud you are of the things YOUR body can do. If she sees you loving your real-world body, it will be easier for her to develop a healthy relationship with food.
8. That’s not for girls.
It’s the 21st century, y’all. Women are achieving amazing things in sports, business, and the sciences. Encourage your daughter to pursue her dreams regardless of whether her aspirations are in traditionally male-dominated areas or not. Worried that she may run across people who treat her unkindly because they don’t think girls should apply? You can help her navigate any future challenging circumstances now. Connect her to training, sponsors, and networks that can support her goals. This will build her self-confidence and resilience as she pursues her ambitions.
It’s hard to believe that little one, who used to fit snugly in the crook of your arm, is finally ready for kindergarten… or are they? Maybe you should wait another year? After all, what is the right kindergarten age? Especially since the practice of “redshirting” kids—giving them an extra year before starting kindergarten (making them one of the oldest as opposed to the youngest)—has risen in popularity. But like most trends in the parenting world, it leaves parents wondering if it is a good idea. That’s why we looked at the studies and asked experts to weigh in on what is the right age to start kindergarten. Here’s what we found.
Getting Kids Started in Kindergarten
The preschool years are over and it’s time to start kindergarten. But where do parents start? Where we do with all things—online and by asking other parents. Now is the time to check out your local school’s website or find and join parent Facebook pages or other social media accounts associated with the school. Other suggestions include talking to parents with older kids and asking your preschool teacher about local schools and expectations. There are lots of resources out there for parents with inquiring minds.
Kindergarten First-Year Enrollment
Although kindergarten enrollment varies from state to state, parents can expect to encounter some similar requirements no matter where they live. Here are a few universals:
In most states, kids must turn five years old by a certain date, usually September 1.
Many schools require kids to have certain vaccinations before starting school; check with your district about specific requirements.
Most will ask for proof of residence. A utility bill or other piece of mail works fine.
You may be asked to provide a copy of your child’s birth certificate to enroll.
What Do Kids Learn in Kindergarten?
Although the curriculum varies from district to district across the country, parents can count their kindergartners learning the alphabet, sight words, phonics, and basic sentence structure as part of Language Arts. Math covers basics like number recognition, counting, addition and subtraction, measurement, and basic geometry. Additionally, hands-on activities and play-based learning help kids learn about real-world concepts like weather, plants, and animals. But many would say the most important things kids learn in kindergarten support their social-emotional growth (or soft skills) like building relationships, solving conflicts, and developing empathy and self-awareness.
What is the difference between Transitional Kindergarten (TK) and Transitional to Elementary School (TES)?
Transitional Kindergarten (TK) is a two-year public school program designed for kids who turn 5 between September 2 and December 2 of the school year. It provides an additional year of instruction, focused on developing social-emotional skills, language and literacy, math, and physical development, to support kids who may not be ready for kindergarten.
Transitional to Elementary School (TES) is a program offered by preschools or childcare centers to prepare children for kindergarten. It typically focuses on language and literacy, math, social-emotional development, and basic self-help skills so kids can successfully transition to the academic and social expectations of kindergarten.
Your kid will (probably) be more willing to sit still if given an extra year.
Whether or not your five-year-old will sit still during circle time or stay on task at writing centers (or at home) may depend on their age, since younger children generally have a harder time doing both. Studies have shown that kids are often misdiagnosed with behavior problems in kindergarten when in fact, the behaviors are just a matter of being younger than classmates. And, according to this Stanford University study, children who wait a year to enroll have significantly lower levels of inattention and hyperactivity—with results continuing even at age 11.
Your kid may be misdiagnosed with ADHD if they start too early.
All those wiggles in the classroom may have some unintended consequences for kids regarding the right age to start kindergarten. A 2018 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that kids who turned five the month before starting kindergarten were more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than those who started the month that they turned six. "Our findings suggest the possibility that large numbers of kids are being overdiagnosed and overtreated for ADHD because they happen to be relatively immature compared to their older classmates in the early years of elementary school," said study author Timothy Layton, an assistant professor of health care policy at Harvard Medical School, in this article for Education Week.
An older child will probably have an easier time saying goodbye to you.
Younger kids—especially those who haven’t attended a preschool program—may have a tougher time saying goodbye in the morning (and we all know how hard it is to leave a tearful tot at drop-off). Giving your child more time to become independent may help her let go when it’s time for the school day to start. with the in-home model of learning most schools will use this year, it may be challenging to start a drop-off situation mid-year should children resume in-class learning.
Their fine motor skills will be more developed.
Older kids usually have an easier time with fine motor activities (holding a pencil and using scissors, for instance). Doing these things can help build confidence and make a kid more excited about their accomplishments at school.
They have more time to be kids; you have more time with them.
Waiting to start formal schooling gives kids more time to be kids, to enjoy a more leisurely day, and to play freely (which, studies have suggested may be more valuable than academics for young children). Delaying kindergarten also gives you one more year with your child. If you're lucky enough to be home with your kiddo, you'll be glad you got that time.
An older child may be taller than their classmates; that matters (especially in middle school).
You may not be thinking about the teen years yet, but let’s not forget: A child who is the oldest kid in kindergarten will also be the oldest in her middle school grade—and that’s no small thing, especially when puberty hits.
They may be bored (and consequently misbehave).
This study has suggested that kids who delayed kindergarten were twice as likely to drop out of high school. Researchers think this is because they reach adult age sooner, which is when kids are legally allowed to quit school on their own (most state laws require kids to stay in school until at least age 17).
That extra year may be expensive.
If you’re a working parent, delaying kindergarten means another year of paying for childcare or preschool. And, with the average cost of preschool as high as more than $10,000 per year in some states (according to this study from the Economic Policy Institute), it’s an expensive wait.
They may not find peers on their level (initially).
A year can make a big difference when you’re only still in your first decade of life. This means a calm, more introverted six-year-old may have trouble finding like-minded peers in a kindergarten class full of rowdy five-year-olds.
It may not matter in the long run.
Despite conflicting research and strong opinions on both sides, it is still unclear whether “redshirting” makes any difference in the long run. Some studies even suggest that, whether your child starts school a year early or a year late, it all levels out by the middle school years.
With all that information, you’re probably still wondering: What is the right age to start kindergarten? The answer: Both. It depends on the kid.
“Kids should be with developmental age peers as much as possible since kindergarten builds not just academics but social skills, too,” said Deanna Lapen, a Los Angeles-based school psychologist and former kindergarten teacher. “With that being said, every child is an individual. Parents should think about why they would consider redshirting.”
Lapen said parents should talk with their child’s preschool teacher (if applicable) as well as look at the kindergarten curriculum for whatever school their child might attend. Then ask: “Is the upcoming kindergarten class a place where the child will thrive socially and academically?”
If so, don’t delay. And, as always—trust your instincts.
Here’s the truth about your big concerns from the early years all the way through high school
From the first goodbye in kindergarten to the last day of twelfth grade, sending our kids to school means letting go a little bit every day. And for many parents, that nudge out of the nest brings up ALL the parental concerns. Questions run the gamut, from “Will my kindergartener get lost on her way to the bathroom? ” to “What if my college-bound kid doesn’t get good grades?” But teachers say to take a deep breath!
“What does worry actually contribute? A lot of times parents feel that it’s their responsibility and role to worry, but we’re having an epidemic of anxiety among young people right now. A lot of people point to technology, but I would also point to this culture of worry that parents have picked up,” said former Los Angeles school principal Bruce Harlan, who currently teaches middle school science.
Worried now? Don’t be. Whether you’ve got a kid just starting their school journey or a teen almost at the end, we talked to teachers about common parental concerns—and why you can rest easy knowing that your kids will be fine.
Preschool/Kindergarten/First Grade
iStock
The Worry: Your child will get lost on the way to or from the bathroom (or the cafeteria or any other place inside the school).
The Truth: They might. But someone will help them find their way. “This happens all the time. It’s always within the first week. It’s all hands on deck that first week. Parents need to remember that school is a very safe place. There are teachers and support staff everywhere, and everybody knows that in the first few weeks of school, you’re going to find a random kindergartener wandering the halls,” said Los Angeles elementary school teacher Anne Vanderpool.
If your child is worried about getting lost, you can help ease the jitters by practicing. Stick around after school and walk around the school with your child (especially the way to and from the bathroom and classroom). By the first week or two of the school year, even the youngest of students will find their way.
The Worry: Your child will have a potty accident.
The Truth: Many do.
It is common for preschoolers, kindergarteners—and even older kids— to have an occasional accident said Amanda Yuill, a longtime teacher and educational spokesperson, on her website. “For this reason, it is a good idea to ask parents to send a labeled bag with extra clothes you can keep in the classroom if you are teaching kindergarten.” “If there is a child in an older class who still has trouble with this, you can do the same thing with just that child and not the whole class.”
Experts say some kids are just too shy to use the bathroom—whether it’s because they are too embarrassed to raise their hand to ask or they’re worried another schoolmate might hear them going (this is mortifying for some kids!). To help ease these worries (and yours), have a conversation with your child about their concerns—and how the alternative (wetting their pants) may actually be more problematic than not going in the first place. If they keep holding it in, talk to the teacher about letting your child use a single-stall bathroom (for instance, in the nurse’s office), which may alleviate their shyness.
The Worry: You’re wondering if you should hold your child back from kindergarten.
The Truth: More time is usually a good thing
According to Vanderpool, one of the most common questions she gets from parents is whether they should hold their younger children (those with late summer birthdays) back for kindergarten. She said she almost always thinks it’s a good idea to do so. “It varies by child, but always my reaction was to ask them a question back. I’d ask them, ‘Tell me when you had too much time to do something, and tell me when that was a problem for you.”’
Holding kids back—mainly when they are on the younger side for kinder—usually helps them by giving them the time they need to mature into ready-to-learn students. When it comes to kids in the middle of the age net, Vanderpool says the answer isn’t always as clear. “It might be OK. But then I ask the question, ‘How do you want your senior year to go? They’re going to be 18 before they start their senior year. Do you want them to be closer to 20 in their freshman year of college?'”
The Worry: Your kindergartener/first grader isn’t reading as well as some of her peers.
The Truth: Some kids take longer than others—and that’s OK.
AnnMarie Sossong, a reading specialist in Florida, told US News and World Report,“Some children are ready to learn to read at age 3, and some take much longer. I have seen both, and by age 12 or 13, they are reading at the same level, which seems counter-intuitive, but it is not. When they are ready, they are ready, and everything clicks.” And while there seems to be a national push for kids to read earlier and earlier, literacy expert Timothy Shanahan said children only really need to master around 20 sight words by the end of kindergarten and 100 by the end of first grade.
The Worry: Your child has separation anxiety when you drop him off.
The truth: Your kids are (almost always) fine once you leave.
The trick to easing the separation and making your child realize that school is non-negotiable is to be confident at dropoff. “It’s a transition issue. Most of the time, the parent has the hardest time with this—the kids are completely fine. Your child is probably four or five, and you’ve fixed everything up to this point. This is the first time they’re going to do it themselves. The worst thing you can do is tell them they can’t do it. Just swallow the tears for a minute, give them your brave face, and say, ‘I’m so proud of you. You’re going to be great. I’ll see you in a few hours,’” says Vanderpool.
The Worry: Your kid isn’t learning how to spell correctly.
The Truth: Spelling doesn’t matter until later on (and some teachers say it is a nonissue even then).
There’s no denying that kiddified spelling is adorable, but at what point should you correct those cute little misspells and teach your kid the proper way to spell those tricky words?
Not in kindergarten or first grade, say teachers. “There’s a heavier focus on fluency and building confidence [in kinder and first grade], and then you circle back to the nitty gritty later in second and third grade,” said Vanderpool. Even later on, when they’re in upper grades, spelling isn’t the obstacle it used to be, with some teachers admitting that in the age of spell-check and voice type, spelling isn’t as important as it used to be. Dierdre Amey, a third and fourth-grade teacher in Philadelphia, PA, says, “Don’t sweat it if your students are not the best spellers in the upper grades. There are so many strategies and accommodations available for their children via computer.”
Elementary Years
iStock
The Worry: Your child doesn’t seem to like school.
The Truth: How worried you should be depends on the reason.
This is a tricky one, teachers say, since some kids may legitimately be struggling while others don’t like school simply because they’d rather be elsewhere. “Ask your child, ‘Why?’ He might say, ‘Oh, it’s boring.’ Or, ‘I don’t have any friends.’ Or, ‘It’s too hard.’ All of these are great responses that should be explored. Sometimes it’s just a preference; there’s no real good reason; it’s just that your child would rather be home playing video games,” said Vanderpool.
For better or worse, not liking school is a common predicament—especially as kids get older. A 2020 survey of more than 21,000 American high schoolers showed that the top two feelings students said they experienced at school were “stressed” (79.8 percent) and “bored” (69.5 percent), with nearly 75 percent of their self-reported feelings about school being negative.
Friendships play a big part. According to a University of Illinois study, kids with “reciprocal friendships” were more likely to like school and be more academically successful. Similarly, a Gallup poll found that friendships were the biggest predictor of student engagement in both fifth grade and 11th. Talk to your child about whether they have friends at school; if not, try to set up some time with their peers to forge better relationships.
“If we are to help kids gain happiness from their education in the short and long term, we need to bring to bear more resources to facilitate friendship, which tends to solve both the loneliness and boredom problems.” Arthur C Brooks writes in The Atlantic.
The Worry: Your kids’ teachers don’t give enough homework—or your kid doesn’t want to do it.
The Truth: Homework isn’t how young kids learn best anyway.
Dierde Amey, who has been teaching elementary school for 19 years, says “It is the least effective method for learning at a young age.” In fact, a study from the University of Missouri found no academic advantage to doling out homework in elementary school. For middle schoolers, however, homework does help—but only if the work lasts between one to two hours per night (after that, achievement levels don’t change, experts say).
If your school does a “Student of the Month” certificate (or anything like that), it may be disappointing when you don’t see your little scholar standing in the spotlight. Try not to worry.
“Short of a Nobel or Pulitzer, most awards don’t really have a long-term effect on anyone’s life. How many adults can truly point to a childhood award making a deep impact on their future?” teacher Braden Bell told the Washington Post. Parents can use these moments to build empathy, as he did himself when his son didn’t get an award in kindergarten—but a good friend did. “I explained that feelings are like living things, whichever one he fed would get bigger. He realized that he had a choice: He could focus on his own unhappiness or be happy for his friend.”
The Worry: Your child didn’t get into the Gifted and Talented program.
The Truth: It doesn’t mean your child isn’t smart.
Parents often misunderstand the Gifted and Talented (GATE) program as a Smart Kids Club. But teachers say that’s not really the case. “The Gifted and Talented program is not for good students. It’s for kids who learn differently, who can excel in a program that offers a different style of learning,” said Vanderpool. Of course, this reality doesn’t stop parents from wondering how they can “get their child into” the program.
“Holy moly, I had so many parents want to have a personal conference with me about how they’re going to GATE test and their expectation for this child to pass. My greatest recommendation is for parents to be a little more informed and realize it might not be a good fit for your child,” she says.
If your child does get into the program, take that as a cue that maybe your child needs alternative types of teaching, and discuss how you can accommodate these needs at home and as your child grows.
The Worry: Your kid lost (or keeps losing) a game.
The Truth: Consider it a win.
You’re holding your breath as your child steps up to the plate. They swing… miss… and strike out. What do you do now? Cheer, of course! “They don’t have to win. All you really need to say to your kid after a game—win or lose—is ‘I love watching you play,'” said Bruce Harlan, who also worked as a swim coach before his experience teaching middle school.
Here’s the real win: Losing has been shown to help kids. A 2019 Brigham Young University study found that high school students who had participated in youth sports showed higher levels of resilience—as well as self-regulation and empathy—than students who didn’t participate.
“Learning to cope with loss is important because they’re not always going to win later in life. It’s an important skill to develop, to lose with grace, not to blame other people, and to take responsibility for the loss,” psychologist Dr. Kate Lund said in this article.
Parental Concerns About Middle & High School
iStock
The Worry: Your child is dealing with social drama.
The Truth: Don’t get involved (unless you have to).
Harlan, who has been working with kids for 33 years, says “Adolescents ride an emotional roller coaster. The role of the parent is to be steady and calm and not ride that roller coaster with them. This is normal socialization. Kids are going to get feedback from their peers—and often not in a gentle way—about how to be. That is how they learn, and sometimes it is painful.”
That means if your daughter comes home complaining that a friend was mean to her in school, resist the urge to call that friend’s mom. “It sends a bad message to the kids that, ‘Wow, this thing that I brought home must be really important because now all the adults are getting involved,'” says Harlan.
The other unintended consequence is that kids might stop sharing their troubles with parents to avoid them stepping in (which can be embarrassing for most kids). “You want open communication, but sometimes kids will stop telling their parents because they don’t want their parents to overreact,” Harlan said.
The Worry: You’re putting too much pressure on grades.
The Truth: The grades aren’t what matters most.
Sure, you want your kids to do well in school—but how much pressure is too much? “Don’t care more than your kid cares. The teacher will reach out if concerned. And stay off the grading websites,” said Kate England, a 10th-grade civics teacher in Abington, PA.
Instead, focus on effort… and kindness. It sounds hokey, but experts say that if parents worry less about grades and more about teaching decency, good grades will follow naturally. A study done by Arizona State University found that teaching children kindness and compassion—instead of focusing solely on academic achievement and extracurricular activities—helped kids do better in school. Researchers looked at the school performance of 506 sixth-grade students, then asked what their parents valued the most about them. The kids that performed the best in school were the ones whose parents seemed to value kindness more than grades.
In this article, Suniya Luthar, a professor of psychology at ASU said, “When parents emphasize children’s achievement much more than their compassion and decency during the formative years, they are sowing the seeds of stress and poorer well-being. In order to foster well-being and academic success during the critical years surrounding early adolescence. . . parents should accentuate kindness and respect for others at least as much as (or more than) stellar academic performance and extracurricular accolades.”
The Worry: Your child wants to be/can’t get into AP classes?
The Truth: AP Classes aren’t always a good thing.
AP classes sound good. After all, they give your kid a chance to earn college credit while still in high school (Woohoo! No math class freshman year at university!). But many teachers advise against them—and some, like these eight private schools in Washington DC—are doing away with them altogether.
“The truth is that college courses, which demand critical thinking and rigorous analysis, look nothing like AP courses, which stress breadth over depth. Moving away from AP courses will allow us to offer courses that are foundational, allow for authentic engagement with the world and demonstrate respect for students’ intellectual curiosity and interests,” the schools said in a joint statement published by The Washington Post.
Instead of worrying about AP courses, let your kids enroll in interesting electives. “Let them take cooking, sewing, and art even though those classes don’t boost GPAs. They make for a well-rounded student who isn’t stressed beyond belief,” advises England, a teacher of 17 years.
Harlan echoed her thoughts. “There’s no joy in AP classes. It’s a drill-and-kill type of instructional style that is so old-fashioned and goes against everything we know. . . Even the colleges don’t like them because once you’ve gotten credit, you cant retake it in college… but you don’t get the same level of instruction you do in college.”
The Worry: Your child’s SAT scores aren’t great.
The Truth: SATs aren’t always required.
While SATs used to be the gold standard by which every student measured their college-bound worth, that has changed. Today more than 80 percent of US colleges have “test-optional” applications, meaning SAT scores are not required for admission. The California State University system went a step further when it announced in 2022 that it won’t accept SATs or ACTs in the application process for any of its 23 schools—so kids don’t have to worry about whether or not they should “option-in” their scores when applying.
“The era of standardized testing is starting to slide away,” Harlan said, adding that the same is true for tests kids take in elementary and middle school. “Most of the high schools in our area aren’t even accepting them anymore.”
The Worry: Your kid isn’t who you thought they’d be.
The truth: Love the kid you’ve got.
Parents often despair when their kids grow up to be a different person they’d imagined they would be—whether that means that you expected your kid to love sports and they only love computers; or whether you hoped for a cheerleader and got a bookworm. All this worry goes nowhere, experts say.
“Parents start to graph out the life of their kids, and they extrapolate all the way to graduate school. That is not fair to the kids. It’s their life, their ups, and downs,” Harlan said. Instead, he emphasized loving the kid you have. “You don’t order a fully-baked human being when you have a kid. Stop worrying about how you thought things would go for your kid.”
And don’t feel guilty about your feelings. Doctors say it’s normal to feel some loss when our children don’t grow up to be what we thought they’d be. But don’t let those expectations dictate how you treat your child. “When our fantasies about our children do not coincide with their interests, talents, and tendencies, our expectations can strike a debilitating blow to our children’s development. Accepting these losses and mourning them opens our eyes to what we can celebrate about our children.” psychotherapist David Braucher said in Psychology Today.
I have a video of my two-year-old daughter sitting quietly in the middle of a tornado. Not a real tornado, of course. Just the whirling, noisy storm of her two older brothers literally running in circles around her. In that moment, she is sitting on the floor rocking a baby doll while her brothers bounce around the room like pinballs. While they’re shrieking and giggling, jumping from couch to floor and back again, she is singing a lullaby nobody can hear—as if she and her doll are in a quiet place somewhere far, far away.
I watch it now and say a silent thank you. Because—while it may have taken me three kids to get there—it was in that moment that I knew I had a child who is happy just playing by herself.
And that matters. Experts say solo play or “independent play” not only helps children build confidence in themselves; it also helps inspire creativity, build focus, nurture problem-solving skills, and inspire trust—both in themselves and in their relationship with their parents.
Then of course there’s the (very important) fact that alone time for the child gives parents a little time to themselves, too. “It does give parents a break,” said Bryana Kappadakunnel, a Los Angeles-based LMFT and founder of Conscious Mommy, which offers coaching and workshops for parents of young children. “If a child knows how to play independently and doesn’t require the parent to engage or entertain them, it makes things like preparing dinner much easier.”
So where do you start? How can you turn your wiggly, codependent toddler into a self-sufficient kid who’s happy to play alone? I asked some experts and am sharing my own experiences to give you some suggestions.
iStock
Start by doing solo time with your child
Sure, we all want to have children who can let us go to the bathroom without knocking incessantly at the door because they need us right now (just saying). But that doesn’t mean we can send our unsuspecting two-year-olds to their rooms and expect the magic to happen.
Start by setting up a space that invites them in: Put some paper and crayons on the kitchen table while you’re cooking dinner; set up a playdough station; put a box of Magna-Tiles on the living room floor. Or, says Amy Carney, author of Parent On Purpose: Raising Thoughtful Children in a Complicated World, set up a “boredom box” with age-appropriate items that spark creative play in your child. For this, Carney recommends small items like art supplies, trinkets, toys from birthday party bags, figurines, slime, or putty.
Want to make your toddlers feel good about playing by themselves? Sit nearby and “narrate.” This means just acknowledging what your child is doing, i.e. “You are building a really high tower!” or “You’re really being caring to your baby doll.” Doing this builds children’s confidence about what they’re doing.
By the same token, avoid correcting your child or trying to make it a teaching moment—don’t quiz them about colors or ask them to count the blocks in their hands. After all, this is play; not school.
And, replace your instinct to correct with curiosity: for example, if your child is using stacking blocks for all-things-NOT stacking (hey, they make fun hats!), say something like, “Hmm you seem to have found a new way to play with that toy.”
Finally: Don’t ask questions, which Kappadakunnel said can be distracting to the child. Just watch and narrate. Imagine that you’re a nature photographer and just observe the child in her “natural habitat.” (They’re interesting creatures, those kiddos!)
Don’t overload the space
Apparently, your child doesn’t need a lot of toys. A 2017 study from the University of Toledo in Ohio suggested that an environment with fewer toys is better for toddlers and that too many toys actually decrease the “quality of play.” It becomes overwhelming for the child. For each play session, just a handful of toys is enough.
Start by putting out a few toys and telling your child that you’re going to watch them play and that they can show you how the toys work. Let your kid get busy, and just be there to watch (if they ask you to play, tell them it is their time to show you or to play on their own—but that you’re there to see all they can do!). Then, once they are used to playing without you as a playmate, you can try putting the toys down and walking to another room (or another part of the room where you can do something else independently of your child).
iStock
The kind of toy matters
They say “the more a toy does, the less your child does.” So choose simple toys that inspire open-ended play. Some good examples are:
Magna-Tiles
Blocks
Pretend play items (a kitchen, tools, etc.)
Baby dolls or a dollhouse
Simple instruments
Sensory play (playdough, clay, slime, etc.)
And don’t tell your child how to use the toy. Let them explore it for themselves. There is no WRONG way to play with a toy (unless it puts the child is in danger, of course).
Note: Avoid toys with screens or sounds—and don’t use toys that are meant to “teach” (like toys that claim to teach ABCs or colors). Toys that teach have their place, experts say, but when it comes to solo play, open-ended toys are best because they inspire creativity and free thought, and allow the child to lead the way.
“If we can take the pressure off of play to be academic and instead see the learning in play associated with how a child learns to regulate their body, how a child learns to interact with others, how a child learns to occupy themselves—play then becomes this rich, wonderful work that is fascinating,” Kappadakunnel said.
If your child is resistant to solo play, ask, “Have I been available?”
Does your child fight you when you try to get them to “go play”? Kappadakunnel said maybe your child just needs more of you, first.
Ask yourself: Have you been available to your child lately? If the answer is no, then figure out how you can change that. It doesn’t have to be much: Even 10 to 15 minutes of scheduled “special time” a day does wonders for kids. Just set a timer and sit down on the floor with your child. It may seem like a blip to you, but those 10 minutes can really make a difference—for both of you.
Remember that screens don’t count as “alone time”
While an older child might prefer to spend every moment of her alone time on an iPad or video game console, kids need to make time for more productive time alone. That means, maybe, instead of turning on cartoons first thing in the morning, put down some novel toys and ask your child to make something of them. It may be a hard shift at first, but beginning the day with play is a good way to start!
iStock
Now is as good a time as any
Whether you’ve got toddlers as clingy as koala bears or older kids who still consider you Playmate No. 1, it’s never too late to start encouraging a little solo time. For toddlers, having “Alone Time” bursts once or twice a week is a good place to start. You can also lead by example, scheduling time for yourself as often as you can and sharing your feelings about it with your kids.
And don’t forget about YOU. We all know you need some of that precious me-time, too. So make yourself a model: If they see how happy you are doing something for yourself, by yourself (arts & crafts, taking a walk, reading quietly), maybe they’ll start to crave those same sorts of experiences, too. Remember: You can lead the way.
Read books that celebrate being alone
Books are a good way to teach young children—especially when it means they get some quality time with you. Try reading these books to get your kiddos craving solo play:
Here’s your reminder that you’re just as important as anyone else on your Mother’s Day list. Consider these gifts for yourself our present to you!
We absolutely adore Mother’s Day, and we know it’s also possible that it’s not your favorite. Either way, this is the time to really lean into that buzzy “self-care” thing and treat yourself! We know, we know. It feels counterintuitive to shop for gifts for yourself, especially during a time when we’re so focused on the other amazing moms in our lives. But being focused on others is exactly why we want to make sure you’re taking good care of yourself, too. Because as great as Mother’s Day is, sometimes it includes its fair share of stress.
These are some of our favorite Mother’s Day gifts for yourself: goodies that help you live better, have more fun, feel better, and more. There’s something for every mom, so we’re pretty sure you’ll find something that you’ll love. Maybe two somethings. We absolutely won’t judge. You totally deserve to feel as good as you make your loved ones feel. Check out our list of our faves and find yourself a little treat!
KIM+ONO Long Kimono Robe
KIM PLUS ONO
KIM+ONO makes the most beautiful silk and charmeuse kimono robes we've ever seen. Each one features an original pattern, first sketched by hand, then painted with a traditional brush. There are so many colors and styles to choose from that can be worn from home to brunch and back again! This beautiful, mid-weight kimono makes your life easy—it’s easy to clean and easy to wear. With the soft, gentle material and luxurious drape, whether you’re lounging or layering, this kimono cover up will make you feel like a queen. Plus, it's machine-washable (on gentle in a garment bag!). KIM+ONO Long Kimono Robe ($150.00)—Buy Now!
Homewerks Towel Warmer
Amazon
Wrapping ourselves in chilly towels right after a hot shower? Not anymore! We're rocking major self-care with this towel warmer (which also works with throw blankets, by the way). It heats up fast and turns off after 60 minutes, so you'll have a cozy towel ready when you are! Homewerks Towel Warmer ($142.49)—Buy Now!
Ourself The Lip Plumping & Enhancing Regimine
Ourself
If you want to skip the injections but also want fuller, softer, more defined lips, the Ouself Duo is for you! Smooth fine lines and wrinkles, instantly enhance lip color, and increase lip definition. Visible results after only 5 days! Ourself The Lip Plumping & Enhancing Regimine ($180.00)—Buy Now!
Tinybeans Photobook
Tinybeans
Talk about a keepsake. Tinybeans Photobooks aren't only easy, they're the perfect gift (and you'll probably want to keep one for yourself, too). Take 15% off Photobooks through May 31st with code 15FORMOM*. Tinybeans Photobooks—Start Building Yours Here!
*Cannot be completed on mobile
Anchor Chain Bracelet Set
Sterling Forever
Chain jewelry has been trending the last few years, and we're loving this bracelet set from Sterling Forever! You can wear them together or mix and match, but no matter what you pick, you can wear them every day. Anchor Chain Bracelet Set ($75.00)—Buy Now!
Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Barefoot in The Wild Throw
Amazon
It's the throw blanket that took the internet by storm! The Barefoot Dreams viral throw is so wildly comfortable and soft, you'll completely understand what everyone is talking about. It also comes in 4 colorways! ($158.12)—Buy Now!
Johnny Was Golden Bouquet Divine Pant
Johnny Was
No, you're not seeing things. These are your dream pants. Beautiful? Check. Comfortable? You have no idea. Can be worn from the beach to brunch to the board meeting? Check, check, check. Oh, and they're Johnny Was, so you'll wear them for years and years. These are literal investment pants. Johnny Was Golden Bouquet Divine Pant ($295.00)—Buy Here!
Azcona Cenote Jade Ring
Azcona
This stunning ring is inspired by natural pools. The beautiful authentic jade stone ring is here to make a statement with the gold plating serving as a perfect way to compliment the natural stone in this piece! This is a complete "wow" piece. It also works like a cuff so you can adjust it to fit any finger. Azcona Cenote Jade Ring ($70.00)—Buy Now!
Sprinkles Cupcakes Favorites Dozen Box
Sprinkles Bakery
Need a cupcake? Of course you do. So do we. That's why we love that Sprinkles Bakery delivers their famous cupcakes nationwide! The Favorites Dozen Box features 3 Red Velvet, 3 Vanilla, 3 Dark Chocolate, and 3 Sprinkle. Drooling yet? Sprinkles Cupcakes Favorites Dozen Box (Pricing Varies by Location)—Order Now!
AYASAL Lash Lift Kit
Amazon
Believe it or not (if you follow the directions), you can do your own lash lift at home! The kit has everything you need to lift and curl your lashes that can last 4-6 weeks. AYASAL Lash Lift Kit ($25.49)—Buy Now!
Gravity Salt & Pepper Grinder
Amazon
These pretty battery-powered salt and pepper grinders look fabulous on your dining table, and all you have to do is flip them over and get to grinding! Gravity Salt & Pepper Grinder ($24.99)—Buy Now!
Shiva Evil Eye Talisman Necklace
Bonheur Jewelry
With a 5-star rating and 18k gold-plated brass, inlaid with blue enamel, accented with pink, round-cut Swarovski crystals, this Shiva Evil Eye necklace is the perfect summer pop of color that you can wear everywhere! Shiva Evil Eye Talisman Necklace ($98.00)—Buy Now!
Stanley 40oz Tumbler
Stanley
Everyone's favorite tumbler now comes in this Mother's-Day-treat-yourself-ready Orchid hue! Plus, they do exactly what they say and keep your drink cold and safe. Stanley 40oz Tumbler ($50.00)—Buy Now!
Best Skin Days SPF 30
Iris&Romeo
This skincare-meets-makeup game changer! It has a lightweight cream texture that melts into skin for a natural, glowing look, evens out skin tone, and delivers light-to-medium buildable coverage. Add the all important SPF and this is a magic little jar you'll reach for daily! Iris&Romeo Best Skin Days SPF 30 ($48.00)—Buy Now!
WIBIMEN Round Ice Cube Tray
Amazon
The half-moon ice that falls out of the fridge is just not as luxurious as we'd like our ice to be. This ice cube tray set creates spherical ice that's amazing in water, cocktails, La Croix, whatever you're drinking and comes with a bin and scoop, too! WIBIMEN Round Ice Cube Tray ($25.70)—Buy Now!
Supernatural VR
Supernatural VR
This at-home workout is perfect for multitasking moms who just don’t have enough hours in the day to make it to the gym. Busy mom of three Kelly Ripa shared that Supernatural is “everything I’ve been looking for!” when it comes to fitness, and adds that “at-home workouts are here to stay and the convenience that they elicit is hard to compete with.”
Work out in exotic locations around the globe like Machu Picchu, The Maldives, or The Great Wall of China and to today’s top artists such as Billie Eilish, Megan Thee Stallion, The Weeknd, and more! Every day, a new workout is released and for those who aren’t in a fitness routine yet, there is an option for every fitness-level so everyone can move, have fun and feel rewarded. Along with a range of intensities, workouts include four different modalities—Flow (Cardio), Stretching, Meditation, and Boxing. Supernatural is available on Meta Quest 2 with pricing at $19/month or $179/annually. Supernatural VR—Start Now!
“I like to think of Not All Diamonds and Rosé as the ultimate reunion. I know readers will be surprised, entertained, and even shocked at what’s in store."—Andy Cohen
'Serious' Ring
Ibiza Passion
Not only is this ring an absolute stunner; it's also water-resistant, so you don't have to worry about taking it off (or leaving it somewhere on accident!). A lot of Ibiza Passion's pieces are water-resistant, so make sure to take a look at their whole collection! Ibiza Passion 'Serious' Ring ($74.00)—Buy Now!
This new luxe skincare line is all about going for the glow. The Vitamin C Resurfacing Scrub’s crystals create a gentle, physical exfoliation which sloughs off dead cells, boosts circulation, and replenishes the skin. It deeply purifies to eliminate dull, dry skin and clogged pores.The Vitamin C Resurfacing AHA Activator helps dissolve the Resurfacing Scrub’s Vitamin C crystals, resulting in a warm chemical exfoliation. This powerful combination reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.Naderma Vitamin C Resurfacing Scrub + Activator ($75.00)—Buy Now!
Anxiety Relief Breathing Necklace
Inhale through your nose and exhale through the necklace mouthpiece, helping you breathe out more softly and slowly. It encourages the body to regulate your nervous system and while it's not a "cure", it's a really nice tool and reminder to breathe through your reaction to stress. Available in silver, gold, and rose gold finishes! Anxiety Relief Breathing Necklace ($22.89)—Buy Now!
We're perpetually wearing a hair tie around on our wrists, but now we can make it fashion with these adorable bracelet hair ties! They were an Oprah's Favorite Thing, so you know they're awesome! Maya J Bracelet Hair Ties ($18.00)—Buy Now!
Agate Cheese Board
Anthropologie
The only way to make cheese better? Serving it on this gorgeous agate cheese board! It's also great for a full charcuterie, hors d'oeuvres, and more. You might actually want to grab two—this is a wonderful wedding gift, too! Anthropologie Agate Cheese Board ($78.00)—Buy Now!
Arizona Footbed Sandal
Famous Footwear
There's a reason Birkenstock's Arizona Footbed Sandal is so popular. They're so, so comfortable, and this one is available in a ton of colors, so we'd suggest grabbing a few. You'll want to wear them all through the warm months! Birkenstock Arizona Footbed Sandal ($44.99)—Buy Now!
Mental Health Journal
Mental health can be cute, right? It totally can, and it definitely doesn't have to be scary. This journal is a great option for quotes, thoughts, and therapy notes (or whatever you want to use it for!). Mental Health Journal ($18.00+)—Buy Now!
Chunky Flat Chain Bracelet in Gold
Flaire & Co.
Chunky bracelets are so in right now and this one is water-safe, hypoallergenic, anti-tarnish, and rust-free! You'll wear this one all. the. time. Flaire & Co. Chunky Flat Chain Bracelet in Gold ($18.00)—Buy Now!
Arrae Rest & Digest Kit
Arrea
Bloat and Calm were formulated by a naturopathic doctor to optimize each other’s effects! Calm lowers stress, anxiety, and cortisol levels, allowing you to take a preventative approach to your digestion. Bloat reduces bloating, abdominal discomfort, and optimizes digestion, so you can eat in a relaxed state knowing your Bloat capsules have your back. These are some seriously chic supplements! Arrae Rest & Digest Kit ($96.00)—Buy Now!
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
Shop small and support local women at these local businesses that are full of heart
March kicks off with International Women’s Day followed by Women’s History month making now the perfect time to show support to the hardworking women of our community. From cafes to coffee stores to cupcakeries, check out these women-owned businesses in the Bay Area and find ways to celebrate the super women in your life while you’re at it.
Kasa Indian Eatery Lawyer-turned-mom-turned-chef Anamika Khanna brings vibrant Indian flavors to the Bay Area with freshly ground spices and 24 hour marinated meat. With the belief that great food can be cheap and quick, Kasa specializes in delicious kati rolls, a sort of mini burrito that is a traditional Indian street food.
Lady Falcon Coffee Club Originating from Ocean Beach, this specialty coffee and tea company is led by Buffy Maguire and sells their gorgeously packaged beans from a charming vintage truck on the weekends at Alamo Park. We love both their beans and truck!
Alamo Square Park
Audrey Ma
Smitten Ice Cream When Founder and CEO Robyn Sue Fisher invented and patented her own ice cream machine in 2009, she placed her custom-built machine on top of a Radio Flyer wagon and began selling on the streets of San Francisco. Today, you can enjoy churned-to-order, ultra-smooth ice cream using locally sourced ingredients at 5 locations in the Bay Area for a unique freshness you can taste.
Three Babes Bakeshop With humble beginnings as a pop-up shop from a shipping container in the Mission, Three Babes Bakeshop quickly expanded to farmers markets and their own commercial kitchen. In addition to using local, organic ingredients they also offer a virtual pie class, ‘you bake’ chocolate chip cookie dough and a pie subscription service. Find their delicious treats at the Ferry Plaza Farmer’s Market on Saturdays or pickup orders at their bakeshop kitchen.
Bakeshop Kitchen 2501 Phelps St. San Francisco, CA Pre-order pickups & deliveries
Ferry Building Farmers Market San Francisco, CA Saturdays 8 a.m.-2 p.m. only
post.script. Owner Chandler Tang grew up in this neighborhood and opened this gift shop in what she hopes is a ray of sunlight in the community. post.script. is filled with an assortment of whimsical gifts and home goods all designed to bring joy and delight through their clean and modern designs.
2413 California Street San Francisco
Sprout San Francisco
Sprout San Francisco Inspired by her daughters, owner Suzanne opened Sprout San Francisco to help parents create a healthy home for little ones. With three locations in the Bay Area, this natural, organic boutique is on a mission to bring families the safest, non-toxic children’s products and their green collection includes everything from clothing to furniture.
FTK Martial Arts
FTK Martial Arts Teachers Liza Fernandez and Diandra Thompson are the owners at FTK, short for Fernandez Thompson Kenpo. They create a fun and engaging environment for students to learn self-defense, build confidence and improve discipline. Private and group lessons range in levels from preschool to adults with summer camp also available.
461 Cortland Ave. San Francisco
East Bay
Tara's Organic Ice Cream Using fresh herbs and ground spices for a truly unique taste, Tara’s organic, small-batch ice cream is honest, surprising and irresistible—try the black sesame or pink peppercorn!
3173 College Avenue Berkeley
Minnie Bell’s Comfort food at its best, Minnie Bell owner Fernay McPherson uses her family’s recipes in creating her legendary rosemary fried chicken that is all the rave in the East Bay. Find her stand at the Emeryville Public Market and don’t forget the corn bread!
Kaleidoscope Coffee Have you ever wanted coffee or wine and ice cream for the kids.. all at the same spot? This local community hang out, brought to life by owner, coffee lover and storyteller, Cassie Cushing, has it all and more and is the perfect place for the entire family to visit.
109 Park Place, Richmond
Homeroom Restaurant This local favorite was birthed from a craving and a dream of opening a unique restaurant. Erin Wade went from lawyer to mac and cheese extraordinaire, bringing you cheesy, made-to-order creations such as pizza mac, garden pesto mac, make it your own and more. Go give the gooey goodness a try.
400 40th St. Oakland
Homeroom To Go 4007 Webster St. Oakland
Taiwan Bento Everyone is familiar with Japanese and Chinese food... but what about Taiwanese food? With food and ingredients sourced from local farms, chef and co-owner Stacy Tang aims to introduce delicious Taiwanese snacks, bento meals and noodles to the East Bay and beyond. Their roasted chicken bento is a must-try along with the brown sugar milk tea!
When computer scientist Del Rodrigues decided to retire and put her passion for cooking and family recipes to good use, Brazilian Breads came to light. In addition to crunchy, chewy Brazilian cheese breads in guava (our favorite) and other yummy flavors, they serve flavorful traditional meals as well as frozen family take home meals.
5 Little Monkeys Owner Stephanie is the eldest of five little monkeys in her family. She created her environmentally conscience, hands-on, educational toy store with her younger siblings in mind. With her parent’s support—a renowned toy designer and children’s wear manufacturer, she started Five Little Monkeys in 2001. Bring your little monkeys to explore this fun store hands-on at one of their locations in the East Bay, Peninsula and Marin.
Patti's Swim School Founded by a mother of six with a passion for teaching and aquatics, over 40,000 students have been taught to swim in their outdoor-indoor, residential setting. They focus on water safety and essential skills offering adult swim, special needs and parent and me classes, in private and group lessons.
4621 James Ave. Castro Valley
Mightly
Mightly Mightly was started by a kiddo entrepreneur and her fashion savvy mom. Headquartered in Oakland, with their team of women-experts in the field, their online store offers durable, comfortable, environmentally friendly, organic clothes for kids by a kid.
Frost Cupcake Factory After Andrea Buswell was unexpectedly laid off from a corporate job, she took advantage of her creative passion and Frost Cupcake Factory was born. She appeared on the Food Network’s Cupcake Wars and WON so you know her cupcakes are legit…don’t leave her store without at least a dozen cupcakes in tow.
1305 North Bascom Avenue Suite i, San Jose
Zareen's
Zareen’s Chef and owner Zareen Khan quit corporate life to bring contemporary Pakistani and Indian food to three locations across the Peninsula. With rave reviews and a cult-like following, you will find lines at any of the locations because the food is just that good. We love the chicken biryani with a mango lassi to wash it all down.
1 Oz Coffee In 2008, Yulia Kolchanova moved to the U.S. from Siberia with her husband and three sons, learned how to speak English and four years later, opened a coffee shop that crafts high quality espresso drinks, 1 ounce at a time.
650 Castro St, Suite 130 Mountain View
3051 Tasman Dr Santa Clara
Kjersti Nelson Running + Therapy A running coach, mental health therapist and yoga instructor, Kjersti can help you meet your running and fitness goals while also providing talk therapy. Online therapy and coaching is also available if that's more your cup of tea.
Tassels Run by three generations of ladies, Tassels have been dressing little ones in the Los Gatos area and beyond for 29 years. They specialize in sustainable, quality fashion and are famous for their custom design t-shirts and hair bows.
44 Elm St. Los Gatos
iStock
Bay Area Pet Pals Owner Lynda and her knowledgeable team bring you over 26 years of experience in caring for various pets. Services include dog walking, pet sitting and dog boarding in several areas of the Peninsula. They are licensed, bonded and insured and trained in pet first aid.
allARTstudio This art school is founder and art instructor Alla’s long-time dream and she created this studio to encourage and develop art creativity in children and adults. In addition to painting, portraits and figure drawing classes, they also offer mommy and me classes, workshops, summer camps and birthday parties.
1060 El Camino Real, Suite E Redwood City
Marin
Cowgirl Creamery College friends Sue Conley and Peggy Smith dreamt of sharing the craftsmanship and agricultural practices of organic farmers in Marin and Sonoma counties which led to Cowgirl Creamery. Their artisan cheeses are staple in many Bay area stores as they remain committed to their community and farmers.
Purple Monkey Owned by a Marin mom, Purple Monkey in Tiburon is a kiddo centered salon using natural products, with a team of experienced stylists. The salon is loaded with toys, movies and games, ready to cater to the littlest customers and their grown-ups. They're also an official sponsor of Locks of Love, handling the process, if you wished to donate your hair.
Is the nation’s leading pre and postnatal health and fitness company by moms for moms. They offer more than just fitness classes, providing mamas nationwide support and community as well as the opportunity to restart their careers as mompreneurs through their franchise opportunities. Check out one of their many work out programs with locations all around the Bay.
Performing Arts Academy of Marin PAAM specializes in theatre arts, tap, ballet, hip hop and other dance forms. Founder Annie and the stellar team of instructors provide expert training to build the confidence your young artists need to shine and offer in-person, virtual and summer camp programs.
Beginner-friendly ski slopes, an indoor waterpark, and cabins for families make this spot a winner
If you’re eager to get your kids on skis, Massanutten Resort is the place to start. Over the past 50 years, this family-friendly mountain has grown from a six-trail destination to a four-season entertainment center featuring 14 ski trails, snow tubing, an indoor/outdoor water park, ice skating, an e-sports center, and more. Just two hours from both Washington DC and Richmond, VA, Massanutten Resort offers some of the best ski conditions in the region thanks to its high-tech snowmaking and grooming capabilities. With over 50 new snowmaking guns, this mountain makes more snow in a day “than Mother Nature.”
Not only are the ski conditions top-notch, but there are plenty of activities beyond the trails for family fun and memory-making. Spend an afternoon zipping down what The Washingtonian has praised as the best snow tubing park in the region, enjoy the indoor waterpark on a rainy day, or challenge the family to air hockey or bowling at the resort’s onsite arcade. Massanutten Resort delivers an action-packed, family-oriented winter getaway for both novice and expert skiers with plenty of après-ski things to do.
The Ski Experience at Massanutten Resort
Meghan Yudes Meyers
New skiers should make a beeline for the Magic Carpet conveyor lift for an itty bitty bunny hill that is so gentle you rarely see new skiers topple. Once new skiers master the snow plow, it’s on to Paula’s Way, a longer run down a gradual hill where new skiers (and snowboarders) get a better sense of balancing on skis. Once your kiddo becomes confident on this hill, you can introduce them to Creekside’s quad chairs and hit Southern Comfort, a hill that mirrors Paula’s Way in steepness but offers a much longer run.
One of the biggest expenses at any mountain is ski lessons. Costing almost as much as a lift ticket, it’s a spendy investment we think is worth it. Help you or your child get comfortable on the mountain fast by building confidence-boosting skills quickly. You’ll find teachers—all of whom are registered members of PSIA or Professional Ski Instructors of America—that work with any range of abilities and are also experienced in adaptive instruction for those who might do better with a different learning style.
While your child is enrolled in class, take advantage of the babysitting (wink, wink) and explore the more advanced trails. Massanutten Resort boasts the highest vertical of any ski mountain in VA, MD, or PA—rewarding those that make it to the peak with impressive views.
Where to Fuel Up on the Slopes
Massanutten Resort
The General Store
A day of skiing can work up an appetite. Whether you want to kick start your day with a cup of coffee or grab trail mix for the slopes, The General Store has a wide variety of sundries for a day of skiing. You’ll also find must-have staples for your rental, like cooking oil, condiments, and marshmallows for roasting. Forgot ski gloves or need to size up on some ski pants? You’ll find everything from socks to ski coats to help you suit up for the mountain.
Ski Lodge Cafeteria
Spend more time on the trails and less time in the lodge with a quick meal. The cafeteria’s menu is loaded with hot comfort foods, like chicken fingers, pizza, and chili, but you’ll also find lighter options like salads, yogurts, fresh fruits, and sandwiches in the refrigerated section. This quick service option offers a fresh fixings bar with large slices of tomato, fresh lettuce, and other sandwich toppers.
Virginia BBQ & Pizza Co.
At the end of a day of skiing, make a pit stop at this onsite-smoked BBQ and pizza joint at the foot of Massanutten (located in the Visitor Center). For picky eaters, this dine-in and carry-out restaurant also has a kids’ menu featuring chicken fingers, hot dogs, and grilled cheese. Virginia BBQ & Pizza Co. is also a great place to start your day with breakfast sandwiches, French toast sticks, or egg-based breakfast bowls.
Skiing isn’t the only way to enjoy Massanutten’s mountain. If you’ve got a beginner on skis, chances are they’ll spy the saucer-like tubes flying down the mountain just a short distance from Paula’s Way (you can’t miss the screams!). Praised as the best snow tubing by The Washingtonian, these 90-minute snow tube sessions whisk tubers down one of 16 lanes for fast thrills (and a few high-pitched shrieks). You must be 36′ tall to participate and tubes are single-rider only, but you can attach up to four tubes to pick up some extra speed.
Family Fun After Skiing
Massanutten Resort
A trip to Massanutten Resort would be incomplete without a visit to its famed Indoor waterpark. The indoors are always heated to a toasty 84° so your littles can climb and explore without ever feeling cold. There is a lazy river, numerous (gigantic!) dump buckets, a kid-friendly hot tub, a kiddie pool, giant tube slides, body slides, and more. Not to be missed is the wave pool where experienced surfers will teach you how to zig left and right through the waves, kneel on your board and if you’re one of the nimble few, pop up to surf!
Meghan Yudes Meyers
Above Massanutten’s WaterPark is a full floor of arcade fun. If you’ve rented a locker at the water park, you’ll get a $15 “refund” to use in the arcade. Beyond grabber machines and arcade games, this entertainment center features pin bowling and ride-on games. When you’re done playing, take your card loaded with your ticket winnings to the shop (yes, there is an entire shop!) to choose from a massive range of prizes.
Luxury Lodging at Massanutten Resort
Meghan Yudes Meyers
From hotels to townhouses to home rentals, there are a number of lodging options both on the mountain and in the valley at Massanutten Resort. King among them is Regal Vistas, a condo-style housing community surrounded by mountain views.
We love these two-bedroom homes not only for their convenience to all of the Resort’s amenities (the water park is at the base of the complex and the ski trails are a quick drive away) but each house is meticulously designed for an optimal family vacation. With a king-bed master, a queen bed, and a pull-out sofa, these homes can comfortably accommodate up to six guests. There is a full kitchen, a washer/dryer, and a single-car garage (which comes in handy as a makeshift play area). You’ll appreciate the master suite’s hot tub after a long day of skiing (and we bet the kids will find it the most epic bubble bath ever with changing colored lights).
Massanutten Resort
Massanutten, VA Online: massresort.com
Editor’s Note: This trip was paid for by Massanutten Resort but all opinions belong to the writer.
This Wisconsin resort has long been booked up in the summers, but it’s becoming the ultimate wintertime destination for families looking for a quick snow-filled getaway
The sub-freezing temps have officially hit the midwest, and we get it: the desire to hitch a ride on the next plane out to warmer weather is as real as the frost building up on your windows. But before you go booking that pricy roundtrip airfare, have you considered leaning into the snowy season?
If you’re willing to brave a few extra layers (and a healthy supply of HotHands warming pouches!), the ideal wintertime getaway is actually not very far away at all. In fact, if you’re based in Chicago, it’s just a 90-minute drive away—which, let’s be honest, is barely longer than a commute downtown during rush-hour traffic. So, where is this dream destination? Along the rolling Wisconsin countryside of Lake Geneva.
Of course, Lake Geneva is an obvious choice in the summer months—with its ample beaches, golf courses, orchards, and water adventures—but it’s become something of a sleeper sensation during the typical “off-season” months from January through April.
And perhaps most well-equipped for a wintry weekend (or week!) away is the Grand Geneva Resort and Spa, one of the most scenic spots you could choose for your family, no matter the season. Here’s what you can add to your all-ages itinerary this winter without ever even leaving the 1,300-acre resort:
5 Things to Do at Grand Geneva Resort in the Winter
Looking for a picturesque dining experience you won’t soon forget? Book a reservation with one of the resort’s coveted igloos. These heated clear domes are adorably lit up (think: Instagram-worthy neon lights demanding you to “Stay Cozy”) and outfitted with comfy couches, chairs, coffee tables, and blankets.
The menu is filled with shareable plates and snacks, but we recommend jumping straight to dessert, in which guests can opt for a s’mores board that comes with a personal solo stove and sticks for fireside roasting. But if sticky campfire sandwiches aren’t your thing, fear not: in addition to jumbo marshmallows, graham crackers, and Godiva chocolates, this spread also features just-out-of-the-oven cookies, truffles, and strawberries alongside an abundance of dipping sauces—we’re talking caramel, peanut butter mousse, and Nutella.
And although kiddos can sip hot cocoa or spiced apple cider, the igloos offer an exclusive lineup of signature cocktails (the white peppermint martini is intensely refreshing!) and hot toddies.
Each igloo fits up to six guests, and on busy nights, advance reservations are kept to roughly 90 minutes. Instead of steep drink minimums or the required purchase of bottle service that comes with many urban Igloo experiences, Grand Geneva requires a non-refundable fee ($50 fee on weekdays, and $65 on weekends) per igloo. With only a handful on property, this is perhaps the hottest ticket in town, so book it as soon as you can.
Insider Tip: Every igloo experience comes with a portable Bluetooth speaker, so be sure to cue up your readied playlist and set whatever mood you’d like.
Avid skiers and snowboarders will be shocked at how much shredding is possible in southern Wisconsin and among the 20 downhill ski runs at The Mountain Top. Grand Geneva’s official ski zone is designed for all ages and abilities, so guests can conquer the slopes—including a handful of jaw-dropping double-black and black diamond courses—or bop along the bunny hill.
The ski resort also boasts three chair lifts, two “magic carpet” lifts (think of them as those airport “people movers” on an incline!), and a six-acre terrain park perfect for cross-country skiing. But perhaps one of the most beloved aspects of the Mountain Top are its hours—and the opportunity to go night skiing until 9 or 10 p.m. any night of the week.
Another perk is that you don’t need to worry about booking lift tickets based on impossible-to-predict weather conditions. Grand Geneva’s snowmaking abilities allow the ski resort to remain open even when there’s no snowfall.
For those new to skiing or snowboarding, Grand Geneva is a perfect entry point—far less intimidating that monstrous mountain resorts out west. Not only can you rent all the gear you need, including helmets, at the ski chalet, but you can also sign up for a bevy of classes. For instance, with the popular 90-minute private or semi-private lessons, certified instructors will encourage beginners (young and old alike!) to build confidence and basic skills. Even advanced students can get trained on the latest skiing or snowboarding techniques with a refresher course.
Insider Tip: Affordable half-day sessions are available for children (three- to six-year-olds can enroll in Snow Cubs and seven- to 13-year-olds can join Mountain Mites) on weekends, and they provide a nice block of time for parents to get some runs in on their own.
3. Explore More Snow . . . and Ice!
The slopes are a major wintertime draw to be sure, but it’s wise to save some time for Grand Geneva’s surprisingly long list of other outdoor wintertime adventures. Consider snowshoeing throughout more than five miles of trails, or if you prefer to stay as close to apres-ski options as possible, there’s an outdoor ice skating rink and a dedicated sledding hill, both situated alongside the base of the Mountain Top’s ski hills.
The sledding area is ideal for children—big enough to provide thrills but small enough for even the littlest sets of legs to handle the walk back up.
Insider Tip: Although you may have luck just showing up, consider booking a 1.5-hour slot for ice skating or sledding in advance to be safe. And if you have room, pack your own sled. Otherwise, it’s a $10 rental fee on top of access to the hill.
Of course, Leinenkugel’s Mountain Top Lodge is the perfect place to put your feet up and still take in all the wintertime action. Truly, the lodge’s outdoor rooftop patio—complete with a fire pit and heat lamps—provides a front-row seat to some of the steepest slopes, and most impressive skiers and snowboarders, in all of Wisconsin.
OK, OK, it might feel like a cop-out to plan a pool day during a winter-wonderland-style trip, but what better way to warm up than with a dip in Grand Geneva’s luxe indoor pool? Better yet, families are going to want to skip straight ahead to Moose Falls, the 50,000-square-foot waterpark located inside Timber Ridge Lodge, another one of Grand Geneva’s properties. At a balmy 86 degrees, it’s the ultimate reward for time spent outside in the freezing cold.
The waterpark features 35-foot-high slides that take you on an epic 300-foot adventure of twists and turns, eventually leading you to a—because it bears repeating—heated pool. For a more tame ride, unwind in The Lazy River for more than 500 feet of relaxation. There’s also a “Tiny Timbers” section, which offers swings, slides, spouts, and playful water tables to help babies and toddlers get adjusted to water.
Insider Tip: For parents needing a moment away, sneak off to the indoor-outdoor hot tub tucked away in the far corner of the water park. Children six and older are allowed in, but it usually serves as a serene sanctuary from the all-ages adventures just inside.
5. Enjoy Family-Friendly Activities Without Leaving the Hotel
Determined to stay inside and dry? There’s nothing an hour curled up by the fire in the Grand Geneva’s main lobby can’t cure, but families also have access to an action-packed schedule of activities. From complimentary trivia, bingo, and “Minute to Win It” mini-challenges to creative arts-and-crafts sessions, nearly every hour offers something to stave off boredom. Make your own snowflakes, paint a ceramic piggybank, build a stuffed animal (in which you add a heart and fill out its birth certificate!), or experiment with oobleck. The hotel even offers 6 p.m. movie nights, free of charge.
It might seem strange, but exploring the hotel itself is a worthy endeavor. And if you get lost once or twice (or, we won’t judge, a handful of times) while walking around the hotel, there’s at least a good reason for it: The resort’s layout is a tribute to the famous Frank Lloyd Wright, the patriarch of Prairie School-style architecture, which is more common in this part of Wisconsin. Wright’s signature designs influenced the look and feel of the low-rise buildings of Grand Geneva, from the stone and wood materials to the maze-like corridors to the fact that the property was literally built into the hillside.
And, of course, cozying up in your hotel room is as wintertime-approved as it gets. All units feature balconies overlooking scenic views of those very hills, and smart TVs that can be synced up with any of your favorite streaming services (the bathroom mirror even has a TV embedded in it!).
In particular, families with young kids will love the oversized bathtubs for washing away chlorine. And parents who may want to leave age-appropriate children alone in the room for a bit will appreciate an added safety feature: Peep holes in the doors are located about four feet high so kids can check on who’s knocking before opening the door.
Insider Tip: If you want housekeeping to freshen up your room during your stay, don’t forget to request “stay over service” upon check-in. To respect guests’ privacy following COVID, the hotel has made this an opt-in service for guests.
Editor’s note: This trip was paid for by Grand Geneva Resort and Spa, but all opinions belong to the writer.
Whether you’re looking to join a CSA, find a new favorite restaurant or buy science-inspired, kid-designed clothes for your crew, these local businesses are here to help
Seattle is one of those cities where people buy local whenever they can. And February is a great time to recommit to supporting local and small when you shop at some of the best Black-owned businesses in Seattle. From restaurants, CSAs and grocery delivery to fitness studios and beauty products, these enterprising companies have kids and families in mind.
These Black-Owned Businesses in Seattle Are Fun for Families
MsKariba Suite | Balloon Bar Boutique We’re crushing hard on this balloon bar and party supply store in West Seattle. Consider it your go-to spot for creative balloon installations that’ll really make your kiddo’s birthday party (or that baby shower you’re throwing next month) pop. Families can order balloon bundles and garlands, plus just about every individual balloon you can think of online. Or you can stop by the shop to talk inspired ideas with owner Kariba Jack. Orders should be placed two weeks in advance; delivery options are still in the works.
Orion Razat A different spin on Black-owned businesses in Seattle, we're all about celebrating and supporting the entrepreneurial spirit of Seattle's own Orion Razat, author of 101 STEM Jokes. Published when he was barely out of grade school, it’s a book of silly puns and one-liners Orion wrote to entertain his classmates (much to the chagrin of his teacher). With the help of his parents, he was able to bring them all together in this entertaining book. You can follow Orion on Instagram @rocketshipsquid to see what he's up to next (hint: he's working on a second book) and buy his science-inspired merch too.
Local Yokels When local farmer’s markets shut down due to the pandemic, ag-heads Amber and Damon had a brilliant idea, and another Black-owned business in Seattle was born. They would bridge the gap by working with local farms to deliver fresh produce and other products directly to doorsteps in Seattle. Voila! Local Yokels was born. With a focus on sustainability, be it environmental or economic, families can feel good about using this service to get groceries, meats, gift baskets, self-care products, and more delivered. Our suggestion? Their subscription boxes make it easy to always have the staples on hand so you can skip the store on those unavoidably busy days.
Clean Greens Farm & Market With spring and summer CSA season just around the corner, you might be on the lookout for a local farm to support. This year, order your fresh produce from Clean Greens Farm & Market, a non-profit founded in 2007 that's owned and operated by folks in the Central District. In addition to the weekly market, full and half produce shares, they also have a youth program that addresses food justice issues that affect BIPOC kids. As part of the Clean Greens Youth Program, kids ages 4-12 can learn about healthy living and sustainable farming with hands-on experiences.
Estelita's Library If you love books, people, and social justice, we’ve discovered the perfect hangout spot. Estelita’s Library is a justice-focused community library and bookstore. Its mission is to foster a community space for people to build and learn through thoughtful interactions with each other. This unique space features a curated community bookstore and library with titles focused on social justice, ethnic studies, and liberation movements. It adopts a community library model where members join and pay an annual fee to borrow books. Yearly memberships are available on a sliding scale. Bonus: The community library also hosts book talks, classes, meetings, history lessons, and more.
Uniquely Savvy Mom boss makeover, anyone? Kim at Uniquely Savvy can help. Her styling services save parents time and money by keeping them “tailored to the task.” Not sure what to wear for your body type or shape? Kim knows. And when it comes to your personal brand, she works with women to drill down and get to the heart of who they are, defining their strengths and talents so they’re seen and heard for the right reasons. It’s all about building confidence so you can look and do your best, no matter what professional (or personal) role you have.
Gresham Financial Gresham Financial owner and dad, Isaiah Gresham knows how important financial planning and peace of mind are to families, whether you're on your first or fourth (or beyond!) baby. And that's what families will find when they work with Gresham Financial to prepare annual taxes or plan for college tuition or private school fees. We think it's cool that Gresham even teaches financial best practices to kids and teens. It's never too early to learn.
Communion Restaurant & Bar This hot brick-and-mortar, serving up “Seattle Soul,” is the latest venture from That Brown Girl Cooks! duo Chef Kristi Brown and her son, Damon Bomar. You’ll find favorites from TBGC!’s menu, like the Black Eyed Pea Hummus at Communion, alongside new creations that blend American soul food with Pacific Northwest influences—the Catfish Po’Mi is a great example of this ingenious mashup.
Fat's Chicken & Waffles Craving something hearty, filling, and flavorful? You’re destined to find just what you’re looking for at Fat’s, a southern-style, New Orleans-influenced restaurant in the heart of the Central District. Using authentic and natural ingredients, Fat’s serves up soulful delights including their signature chicken & waffles, shrimp & grits, red beans & rice, and more. Breakfast, lunch, or dinner, there is something on the menu to tantalize your taste buds. Try the Fat’s Sampler and dive into a little bit of everything. You’ll enjoy the laid-back vibe and delicious food at this Seattle favorite.
Black Coffee Northwest Black Coffee Northwest’s motto is “grounded in excellence,” and their commitment to brewing up great coffee and being a community hub for Black youth is just that. Just look to Grounded, Black Coffee Northwest's Youth Leadership Development Space to get a feel for the programming that includes after-school study hours and internship opportunities. Plus, folks will find an array of Black-made products in their Black Marketplace any time you visit.
The Station Community Coffee House The Station Community Coffee House serves up more than just coffee and delicious food; it serves community. An icon in Seattle’s Beacon Hill neighborhood for many decades, The Station is home to artists, activists, advocates, and others in search of a good cup of coffee. Try a cup of locally-sourced coffee and pair it with a sandwich (psst... put the El Centro on your list, a sandwich loaded with chicken, avocado, spinach, pepper jack, jalapeno, and tomatoes). If you’re there for breakfast, don’t miss the homemade biscuits ‘n’ chorizo gravy.
1600 S. Roberto Maestas Festival St. Seattle Online: thestationbh.com
Ezell's Famous Chicken
Ezell's Famous Chicken Fresh, high-quality chicken and delicious, home-cooked side dishes, served with exceptional service are what sets Ezell’s Famous Chicken apart from its competition. Since 1984, this locally owned family business has grown and now serves the community in 17 Seattle-area locations. Ezell’s traditional recipe uses a proprietary battering process that seals in the flavor while locking out oils. If you prefer a little zing, try the spicy chicken which is marinated for 24 hours in a New Orleans-style seasoning, giving you full flavor in every bite. Ezell’s is committed to serving good food, while also giving back to the community and supporting local organizations that help neighbors in need.
Nana's Southern Kitchen Crush your Southern comfort food craving on a cold winter day when you head to Nana’s in Kent. Owned by the Minor family, the traditional Southern favorites you'll find on their simple but scrumptious menu pay homage to great-grandma, Myrtle Henderson's cooking. The Mains are fried to perfection and the Sides are everything you want them to be—whether you’re eating collard greens, picnic-perfect potato salad or simply sweet candied yams.
JuneBaby JuneBaby is a celebration of Southern food, sharing its delicious tastes, textures, and flavors through signature dishes like JuneBaby’s Fried Chicken and Red Beans & Rice with Hotlink Ragu. We also love their vegan menu favorites like Oven Roasted Beets with Walnuts, Ancient Grain Salad, and Smoked Carrots. In addition to spreading the love of Southern food throughout Seattle, JuneBaby shares the cuisine’s humble beginnings. Southern “soul food” originated during American slavery and represents the food as well as the period of oppression. Its culinary influences come from West Africa, Western Europe, and North America, resulting in tasty dishes paired with deep roots reflecting hard times and the resourcefulness and strength to overcome hardships. Order takeout when cooking isn't on your menu.
Plum Restaurants Good food feeds the soul and strengthens community. Chef Makini Howell’s Plum Restaurants, including Plum Bistro, Chopped, SugarPlum, and Plum Pantry, feature plant-based meals focused on organically-grown seasonal vegetables, non-GMO soy, and local fruits and herbs from family-owned organic farms. As a lifelong vegan, Howell believes that what is good for the individual will be good for the planet and this starts with our diet. Her fresh take on vegan cuisine inspires and delights diners, and we're loving the new greenhouse outdoor dining option too.
MOTSI Finding the time to "put your face on" isn't always in the cards for parents. But with MOTSI, the brainchild of Courtney LeMarco, a Bellevue-based entrepreneur and entertainment industry veteran, you can always have great skin. The thoughtful formulation behind this line delivers products that are cruelty-free, vegan, and void of things like parabens, silicone, and talc (to name a few). And while MOTSI's moisturizers, masks, mists, gels, and serums are definitely luxurious, it's not reflected in the price. Talk about a win for parents. The charcoal mask is one of our favorites, and for dad, try the cold brew beard oil.
Valerie Madison Fine Jewelry Whether you’re looking for a special gift for someone or a pick-me-up for yourself, you’ll find creative and responsibly-made necklaces, earrings, bracelets and more at this downtown shop. In addition to using recycled materials to make their inspired designs, Valerie Mason Jewelry is committed to sourcing conflict-free diamonds (usually) from Canada.
Compfit If getting fit is on your parent to-do list, Eric Wilson of Compfit can help. He brings his personal philosophy to each client's fitness journey, using his Comprehensive Lifestyle Plan (CLP) to help you achieve your specific fitness goals. Classes offered include a mix of exciting aerobics like Hoopnotica, Oula, and Capoeira with strength classes like Barre and Lean & Tone.
Maya Whole Health Studios As the name implies, Maya Whole Health Studio offers services that connect your mind, body, and spirit and work to bring health and energy to patrons and the community. Whether you’re looking for an innovative yoga class, a great Pilates workout, a restful massage, or an acupuncture session, you can find expert practitioners here.
The Ride Get ready for a 45-minute transformative cycling experience that will keep you coming back for more! From high-end cycle bikes to top-notch instructor-curated playlists, muted lighting to tiered seating, this cycle studio caters to all riders–from beginner to advanced. For more than 20 years, founder and master instructor, Aina Oyewole-Williams, has been bringing fitness-minded people together to heal, transform, and connect. Her teaching method and studio environment support personal change and growth on all levels. Bonus: Mix up your routine and improve your strength and mobility by trying a Body Camp class.
City Sweats Sweat your way to wellness at City Sweats, Seattle’s infrared sauna lounge. Come alone or bring a friend (hello, gal pal time!) and discover the healthy benefits of sweating it out. Explore other holistic detox treatments like a sauna wrap, lymphatic drainage, organic facial, or organic massage when you visit. It's a surefire way to treat yourself to a relaxing, quiet time that will refresh your mind and body. Since 2014, City Sweats has been a pioneer in Seattle’s infrared movement, committing to making infrared therapy more accessible and convenient.
Rainier Health & Fitness Rainier Health & Fitness is so much more than a gym. This South Seattle non-profit health organization makes exercise fun, accessible, and affordable. It encourages healthy lifestyles, strong bodies, and an authentic community through its high-quality fitness center. Founder Sili Kalepo, along with friends and non-profit Urban Impact, opened the first gym in 2005 inside a warehouse after recognizing that fitness centers were sparse in South Seattle neighborhoods. In October 2013, Kalepo opened the current location, continuing to serve the Rainier Beach community by offering comprehensive health and fitness services at reduced rates, aiming to remove obstacles that prevent people from making exercise a regular part of life. Rainier Health & Fitness offers a full spectrum of fitness classes including cardio/dance classes, senior classes, yoga, and personal training.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at These Black-Owned Businesses in Seattle
KJ's Cakery Bakery Creative confections and cakes abound at KJ’s Cakery Bakery. This boutique bake shop offers custom desserts that meet every customer’s specific request. Founder, Kathy Jo Miller, has had a love for baking and an entrepreneurial spirit since she was a young girl. Her first foray into the bakery world was Taylor Made Pantry, a bakery focusing on cake pops. The business grew and evolved and KJ’s Cakery Bakery was born. Whether you're looking for a custom cake, cupcakes, popcorn, cotton candy, paint-your-own cookies, or hot cocoa bombs—you get the picture—this is the spot to find it.
Scoop Du Jour Ice Creamery Grab some of Scoop Du Jour’s delicious ice cream in a waffle cone and walk down to the park or waterfront in Madison Park. No frills and around forever, Scoop Du Jour is an unpretentious, beloved Seattle tradition. Don’t miss out on their kid-approved burgers or grilled cheese, either.
Jacob Willard Home If you’ve got your heart set on a new-to-you vintage or mid-century piece for your space, chances are you’ll find it at Jacob Willard Home. This family-owned furniture store located in Rainier Valley has been part of the Hillman City community for around a decade. Known for its record player and vintage vinyl collection, this is more than just a furniture spot.
Adorned Abode Whether you’re looking for that just-right gift, or you want to find something special for yourself, you’ll find what you need at Adorned Abode. Since its opening in 2016, shop owner, Benita Smith has sourced eye-catching locally-made, fair-trade products that support small businesses. The best part? Each month a portion of the sales is donated to a local service group in the community. Get good. Do good. It’s a win-win. Schedule your shopping appointment online.
Old Freighthouse Square 2501 E. D St., Suite 53 Tacoma Online: adornedabode.net
Sukie's Candle Co. Who doesn't love a good-scented candle? They make great gifts, but they’re also a little pick-me-up you can burn at home on a grey winter day. Treat yourself (or a friend) to a premium soy wax candle from this local company that also has an eye on sustainability. Each candle is hand-poured when it’s ordered and they come in intriguing scents like cinnamon chai and sea salt orchid.
Herbanfarm Pike Place Market’s Herbanfarm is kind of a big dill (pun intended). Founded by Ras Levy Peynado, the son of a market craftsperson and a Jamaican fourth-generation farmer, this urban farm grows all of its herbs and peppers by hand in North Seattle. Herbanfarm’s wide variety of herbs is incorporated into small-batch culinary spice blends, seasonings, sauces, salts, vinegars, mustards, teas, as well as health and beauty products. All ingredients are harvested using organic farming practices that have been passed down from farmer to farmer for generations. The commitment to these practices is what preserves the taste and smell of these flavorful and aromatic herbs and peppers.
Few things say summer more than a lemonade stand. And what better way to launch your kid’s entrepreneurial career? Lemonade stands are a ton of fun but also offer life lessons like goal-setting, confidence-building, and basic business skills—lessons that can set them on a path to succeed in life regardless of the path they choose.
Here are our 7 top lemonade stand tips to help your kids run the ultimate lemonade stand and get the most from the experience.
1. SET YOUR PRICE…OR MAYBE DON’T!
Our first lemonade stand tip is if your kids want to set a price for their lemonade, make sure they account for all the costs to ensure they’ll make money on each cup. It’s not just the lemons and sugar that cost money, don’t forget to factor in the cost of the cups, signs, and stand decorations.
But a totally different strategy is to not set a price at all. By asking people to pay what they want, they may raise even more money than if they set a price for each cup. If your kids are raising money for a good cause, or a local charity, this strategy can supercharge their revenue!
2. THE BEST LOCATION MAY NOT BE THE CLOSEST ONE
A lemonade stand starts strong if it’s located in a safe, accessible area with high foot traffic. If you live in a busy area, your front lawn, stoop, or driveway might be ideal. But if you live in a quieter location, think about partnering with a friend who lives in a busier area or setting up somewhere else in town. But be sure to check with your local government to make sure that they won’t need a permit.
3. THE MORE EYE-CATCHING THE BETTER
Streamers, balloons, big signs, and cute pets are all great ways for the stand to catch people’s attention. The more eye-catching the better. Check out some of the bright and colorful lemonade stands on Pinterest and Instagram for inspiration. Or better yet, encourage your kids to let their imagination fly and practice their creativity with their own ideas about how to get people’s attention.
4. PRACTICE THE PITCH
What will your kids say to potential customers? Most kids get nervous talking to adults or strangers. Have them figure out what they’ll say to potential customers, write it down, then practice the pitch. The more they practice, the more it will feel like reciting a line in a school play instead of talking to a stranger. Eventually, they’ll be so good at their pitch that they’ll stop being nervous and may even exude more confidence beyond their lemonade stand.
5. GET THE WORD OUT
Aside from making a big, eye-catching display, get a few customers by asking friends and family to stop by and support the stand. And don’t forget to spread the word on social media. You and your kids can also create flyers and pass them out around your neighborhood.
6. OFFER PAYMENT OPTIONS
Cash is king. But joggers, walkers, and cyclists usually don’t have cash on them. Let your kids borrow your phone to use your PayPal and Venmo accounts to collect money from their more active customers. Even if they’ve never collected any e-payments, a child with a sign that says “We accept Paypal and Venmo” will catch people’s attention and gain them some serious entrepreneurial cred.
7. MANAGE THE PROCEEDS
Have your kids do the math to figure out how much they sold (the revenue), how much they spent (the expenses), and what is left at the end (the profit). Make sure to let them know that while it’s great to raise money for a cause they believe in, there is nothing wrong with working hard to make money for themselves, too.
And if you need a recipe, here’s our favorite from The Startup Squad’s first book: juice from 6 lemons, 6 cups of water, and 1 cup of sugar. Yum!
I've always built businesses, from a childhood gummy bear business to adult gigs at IMAX and Coupons.com. I founded The Startup Squad to help girls reach their potential and my book series, The Startup Squad, is published by Macmillan. I live in Silicon Valley with my wife and two daughters.
