We took a lot of care when choosing our kids’ names, but according to research done by University of California psychology professor Albert Mehrabian, some names lead to success more than others. In Professor Mehrabian’s book, The Baby Name Report Card: Beneficial and Harmful Baby Names, baby names were judged as good or bad depending on other people’s perception of a chosen name. Each name was ranked on how successful, ethical, caring, and fun they seemed. Scroll below to see the results.
Most Successful Girl Names
1. Madeline (From Magdalene, meaning “of Magdala”)
2. Kate (Short form of Katherine, meaning “pure”)
3. Catherine (meaning “pure”)
4. Susan (Hebrew origin, meaning “lily”)
5. Lauraine (English origin, symbolic of honor and victory”)
6. Victoria (From the Latin vincere, meaning “to conquer”)
7. Katherine (meaning “pure”)
8. Elizabeth (Form of Elisabeth, meaning “God is my oath”)
9. Morgan (From the Old Welsh Morcant, meaning “sea” and “circle”)
10. Jacqueline (A feminine form of Jacques, meaning “heel” or “supplanter”)
Most Successful Boy Names
1. Madison (From a surname, meaning “son of Maud”)
2. Thomas (Greek origin, meaning “twin’)
3. Parker (Originally a surname, meaning “keeper of the park”)
4. Kenneth (From Scottish Gaelic names meaning “handsome”)
5. David (From the Hebrew Dawid meaning “beloved” or “favourite”)
6. Robert (Germanic, meaning “famous” or “bright)
7. James ( meaning “heel” or “supplanter”)
8. Christopher (meaning “christ” and pherein, meaning “to bear”)
9. Ross (Originally a surname, meaning “headland”)
10. Steven (Derived from the Greek word stephanos, meaning “crown” or “garland”)
Note: This story was originally published in April 2017.
Once baby is on the outside, capture all your little future CEO’s most exciting moments—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.
If you want to make Mother’s Day 2024 extra memorable, you can’t go wrong with a homemade card. Since we know moms go gaga for all things heartfelt and handmade, we’ve rounded up the easiest, cutest Mother’s Day card ideas that kids can whip up themselves. They’ll pair perfectly with your Mother’s Day gifts! These are our favorite ideas that are sure to make Mom smile.
Is there anything more classic than a construction paper craft for Mother’s Day? They’re easy, sweet and take little time. We love that this is one of the easiest Mother’s Day card ideas for kids.
This adorable idea is so personal! You can snap your kiddo blowing kisses or doing another cute pose, then let them decorate construction paper to their heart’s content.
When you have too much love for a standard card, bust out this awesome accordion idea from Sarah Hearts! As far as arts and crafts for kids go, this project is perfect—don't forget to customize it with Mom's favorite photos!
Attention, little artists! Start collecting those crayons and get ready to color: these printable cards from Sarah Renae Clark are an easy and creative canvas to show Mom some love.
We love how these typography cards from Lovely Indeed spotlight Mom's superstar qualities. Whether she's a Mom Boss or makes a killer PB&J, these cards call out those qualities that make Mom so amazing.
This cute Mother's Day card is bright and cheerful and with the template from Fireflies and Mudpies, it's an easy craft for kids to do at home. It gives kids creative freedom to color as they see fit, and they can even glue the flowers on by themselves.
This Mother's Day card idea is a sweet surprise! You'll need to download the free flower envelope for tracing, but the rest only requires markers. Get the details from Hello Wonderful.
If anyone deserves to treat herself, it's Mom. That's why these cards from Studio DIY couldn't be more perfect—especially if you pair them with an at-home spa day.
Give Mom a one-of-a-kind gift with this printable poem card from Lil’ Luna. Put your kiddo’s handprint on the front, then have them sign the inside—easy peasy.
This is one of the most unique Mother's Day card ideas we've seen! Grab some dried flowers and put together this sweet card from Make and Takes. Finish it off with white glue and a little drawing.
If you’re not the crafty type, go for this printable from Weekend Craft. It’s as easy as getting some cardstock, cutting it down to size, and adding a personal note inside.
We heart this rainbow painting project aspiring artists can make for mom on her special day. The Artful Parent is where you’ll find out how to create this card that’s meant to be treasured.
You don’t have to be a crafting genius to stitch together these lovable cards for mom. It’s a perfect preschooler activity. String, card stock, and helping hands are what it takes to wind up this Mother’s Day project without breaking a sweat. Get the details at Hello Wonderful.
Finally, a card that's big enough to match your little one’s love for Mom. Find out how to assemble this larger-than-life, undeniably stylish option at The Merry Thought. It's perfect for a Mother's Day picture!
Even if mom's not a bookworm, she can still find a special place for this photo collage in disguise. Use a photo booth fave, or crop some silly selfies to take center stage on the front, then follow the tutorial at Make and Takes so your card will make its mark!
Let your veggies pull double duty this Mother’s Day with a creative rose print card designed by Jen from Mum in the Madhouse. Whether your mini-me pairs this beauty with a sweet-smelling bouquet to match, or pens flowery best-mom-ever sentiments inside, it’s an easy option mom is sure to love.
With just a few items you probably already have in your pantry, you can create this turtle-themed card, one of our favorite Mother's Day card ideas to make mom smile. The tutorial from Sugar Aunts via Coffee Cups and Crayons will help you get it done.
This adorable flower bouquet by Melissa from Fireflies and Mudpies is not only easy to make, but it also has the sweetest printed message on the inside of the vase.
No matter how many kiddos are part of your crew (one, two, three, or more) this classic paint and press will come in handy. Have each kiddo make his or her own card or combine handprints of different sizes and colors into one beautiful bouquet. Get the deets at The Trendy Treehouse.
with additional reporting by Taylor Clifton and Aimee Della Bitta
As parents, there’s nothing quite like a homemade Valentine’s card for mom. We’ve searched the web and carefully curated everything from Valentine’s Day crafts for toddlers to easy Valentine’s Day cards for school, and all of them are sweet as can be. These Valentine’s Day recipes will sweeten any Valentine’s Day plans and these Valentine’s Day games will tucker them out. Choose your favorite ideas for making homemade cards for Valentine’s Day 2024.
Who doesn’t love plants? This homemade Valentine’s card can grow! Follow the instructions to make a seed heart that can be planted. Grow plants like wildflowers, herbs, and small vegetables.
Our kids love mandarin oranges (aka cuties), and this easy homemade Valentine's card from It’s Always Autumn is the perfect way to use them. Buy a big bag at the grocery store and you’re halfway there.
Build super cute homemade Valentine's Day cards this year with this printable from The Resourceful Mama. The only other things you'll need are LEGO bricks and plastic bags.
Your littles will soar to the top of the class with these awesome plane valentines from Crap I’ve Made. Snag toy planes on the cheap on Amazon or at a party store.
Since kids will be loading up on candy all day, we love this change of pace from Pretty Prudent. Pick from crayons, bubbles, glitter, or bandaids—all of which have their own clever puns.
If you want to get crafty for your Valentine this year, this idea from The Nerd’s Wife is an awesome option. Plus, you’ll get to put all your broken crayon stubs to good use.
Here’s another gift that keeps on giving: Play-Doh. Just add a fun label to the carton (Random Thoughts from a Supermom has a convenient printable), and the whole class will be sculpting hearts and flowers for their special someone.
We love the quirky character of these homemade Valentine's Day “cards” from My Paper Crane. The supplies are easy to round up, there's lots of room for kid participation, and the results are oh-so-cute.
Good news for little snake charmers! A Subtle Revelry has ultra-cute easy Valentine's Day cards that only require a teensy amount of effort and a handful of Dollar Store snakes.
What, you didn’t think those festive Valentine’s Day cupcake liners were only good for cupcakes, did you? Urban Comfort has a crafty idea that’s easy to make but oh-so-impressive.
A loving message and a treasure hunt all in one? Yes, please! A Mom with a Lesson Plan has a great idea for adding a little “I Spy” to your V-Day. It’s a great excuse to roam the neighborhood (or a good way to entertain house-bound little cupids).
You can’t help but love this idea from Art Bar Blog. With washi tape, alphabet stamps, and lots and lots of upcycled hearts, you can make gift bags for storing cards or holding other V-Day treats.
We can’t get over the cute factor of these Valentine's Day cards for school from Domestic Mommyhood. They’re easy as pie to print, cut, and distribute—and they also make excellent lunchbox love notes.
What’s the ultimate show of support for your special valentine? A Subtle Revelry has the answer in the form of a printable high five. This nifty idea is easy and sure to be a classroom fave.
Even big kids like getting Valentine’s Day cards, and this one is cute, to the point, and includes a fun beauty gift. Get the printable from All Things Thrifty.
Got a little comedian in your household? These Valentine’s Day jokes for kids are sure to crack a smile sweeter than any chocolate. Let the kids memorize a few to share with friends, or write them on a note for V-Day lunches. Either way, you’re sure to get a laugh, a hug, and probably at least one eye roll. If your kiddo needs more joke material to work with, try out our other jokes for kids. If you’re looking for other Valentine’s Day fun for kids, check out these DIY gifts they can make for friends or loved ones, and Valentine’s Day-themed food and treats they’ll love.
iStock
1. What do you call the world's smallest Valentine’s Day card? A valen-teeny.
2. What did the stamp say to the envelope on Valentine’s Day? I’m stuck on you!
3. What did one volcano say to the other? I lava you!
4. What did the cucumber say to the pickle? You mean a great dill to me.
5. How did the phone propose to his GF? He gave her a ring.
6. What did the one sheep say to the other? I love ewe!
7. And how did the other sheep respond? You’re not so baaaaaa-d yourself.
8. What did the farmer give his wife for Valentine’s Day? Hogs and kisses.
iStock
9. And what did the tweenager give his mom? Ughs and kisses!
10. What did one light bulb say to the other light bulb on Valentine’s Day? I wuv you watts and watts!
11. What do you say to an octopus on Valentine’s Day? I want to hold your hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand!
12. What do you call a ghost’s true love? Their ghoul-friend.
13. What do you write in a slug’s Valentine’s Day card? Be my Valen-slime!
14. Knock Knock Who's there? Luke Luke who? Luke who got a Valentine!
15. Why is Valentine’s Day a good day for a party? Because you can really party hearty!
16. What kind of flowers should you NOT give on Valentine’s Day? Cauliflowers!
17. What do owls say to declare their love? Owl be yours!
18. What did one bee say to the other? I love bee-ing with you, honey!
Saying thank you to a mail carrier is an easy and thoughtful way to share the holiday spirit with others
Through snow and rain, heat, and gloom of night, your local mail carriers deliver your letters and packages directly to your door (or at least your nearest mailbox). And, during the season of goodwill and cheer, they deserve major props. From mail carrier thank you cards to gifts for mail carriers, here are six ways to thank your mail carrier. The best part? All of these are easy for kids and fun, too (think baking cookies!).
Write a letter!
USPS
Even if you don't know your mail person by name, you can still address them in a general way, such as "Our Favorite Mailman" or "Our Faithful Carrier." A simple note that says how much you appreciate the hard work they do (extra cute if your kids can write it out) will go a long way in making your postal worker feel special. Put it in an envelope and use stickers instead of stamps. (After all, they love mail, right?) You can also nab this free, downloadable template if you need a little help!
As always, a thank you card is a lovely gesture. Let the kids draw a little picture or get creative or use a printable like this one to make a little note to attach to the flag of your mailbox. If you can afford it, add a $10 or $15 gift card for somewhere like Amazon or a nearby coffee shop in the envelope. Be sure and do something OBVIOUS to make it clear it's not a regular piece of mail.
Include a Gift Card
iStock
If you can afford it, add a $10 or $15 gift card to somewhere like Target or a nearby coffee shop with the letter or the card. Be sure and do something obvious to make it clear it's not a regular piece of mail. Mail carriers are not legally allowed to accept single gifts valued at over $20 so keep that in mind.
A thoughtful gift (again, under $20) is another simple way to let them know you're thinking of them. Consider things like warm gloves, an insulated mug, cozy socks, or a new water bottle.
Bake Something Special
iStock
Leave cookies in the box or on the doorstep with a clearly marked sign. Be sure to seal them in something, even a ziplock or paper bag decorated with stickers works, and attach a note that says thanks! It's a good idea to list the ingredients in case of allergies or food sensitivities.
Say It Out Loud
iStock
Shout it out! If you're home when the mail comes, be sure to say, "Thank you!" Get the kids in the habit of saying it, too. You can always throw open a window and shout it out. A little gesture of kindness and gratitude like this can go a long way on a long day.
Whether just for Thanksgiving or year-round, this farmhouse decor is such a vibe
Thanksgiving will be here before we know it. While you’re busy planning your menu for Thanksgiving Day, don’t forget that the presentation is key! You can easily create a gorgeous seasonal tablescape of your dreams with these farmhouse decor items that are Joanna Gaines-worthy. And the best part? There are tons of things you can order straight from Amazon.
This decorating style has really taken off in the past ten years or so, and it’s definitely not going anywhere soon. The modern combination of soft tones, natural materials, and rustic metals is such a cozy and comfortable mix that we just can’t get enough of. It also tends to include neutral hues, so it’s ideal for fall and Thanksgiving! We’ve rounded up some of our favorite farmhouse decor pieces that will be on your table in just two days (if not sooner!). Keep reading to see them all.
Jute/Burlap Table Runner
Amazon
Decorating for the holidays is all about the details, especially when it comes to table settings. Easily dress up your table with a simple burlap table runner in a non-traditional color. This particular piece come-on over 13 colors and is so neutral, you can continue to use throughout the year!
What better centerpiece can you have besides rustic pumpkins with the message "give thanks?" These handmade gourds are made from polymer clay and are just the right size to make a statement without overwhelming the table. Plus, they leave plenty of room for the food!
Farmhouse decor is all about texture and the elements, and that's why these unique galvanized napkin rings are perfect for the big day. They tie in the perfect amount of rustic feel, while still being perfectly appropriate for Thanksgiving. We plan on keeping them out year-round.
Thanksgiving is all about the food so you can't forget the napkins! Go with a generous and oversized version like these linen napkins for your meal. The blue-gray color is an homage to traditional farmhouse design but natural enough to easily pair with harvest colors like orange and red.
Creating a tablescape is all about adding texture and dimension. These braided rattan placemats pull double duty––acting as a placemat or charger, and giving depth to your design. Also, the natural rattan elements give your table a rustic feel.
Farmhouse decor doesn't typically lend itself to the traditional reds, yellows and oranges of Thanksgiving, but you can still get the holiday vibe by bringing neutral greenery into your design with a eucalyptus garland. The silver dollar design is moldable to your tablescape and brings just the right amount of living garland to your table.
You can incorporate elements into your tablescape that are both beautiful and functional, like a wooden tiered tray. Whether you use to display finger foods, desserts or pile with decorative pumpkins, this gorgeous serving ware not only gets the job done but looks great while doing it.
No detail is left untouched at your Thanksgiving table! Use natural elements, like these wood-styled place card holders, to add something extra. They are an easy and affordable way to further your farmhouse decor theme. This set also includes coordinating cards that fit right in.
Cake stands hold more than just cakes—they take on pie, cupcakes and can even just serve as a decorative item. This rustic metal cake stand comes with tons of detail, from the metal and wood vintage look to the scalloped design.
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.
You and your magic-loving tykes aren’t Hogwart’s Alum? No worries, because with a little practice, and a lot of illusion, the kids will be amazing audiences (probably you) in no time. We’ve got seven easy magic tricks, and don’t forget the “Alakazam!”
photo: Gabby Cullen
Paperclip Magic Trick
For our first trick, we chose a simple one with a major WOW factor. A dollar bill and two paperclips are all your magician will need to get “oohs” and “ahhs” from audience members of all ages. Make the magic happen by jumping over to Kids Activity Blog for the how-to.
Color Coded Cards
Card counting isn’t a necessary skill when performing the color card trick, which makes it perfect for tiny magicians’ assistants. Simply separate a deck into black and red stacks (without showing anyone), then ask an audience member to pick, look at, and reinsert a card; after cutting the stack, “magically” select the right card (it should be the only wrong card in a colored stack). If you’re curious about the fine print, Funology has the details.
photo: Shelley Massey
Awesome Illusions
Your older brainiacs may know the secret behind plastic and polymers, so this “magic” trick is a great way to have your science pros impress any younger siblings. We’ve got the scoop for any sorcerers’ assistants right here.
Disappearing Coin Magic Trick
Beginning illusionists will really need to get their hocus pocus working if they want to make a coin disappear. From sweeping the coin under the table to saying the magic words, kids trying this trick will learn that practice makes perfect, and a lot of hand waving helps. You can get the whole tutorial over at Kid Spot.
photo: Gabby Cullen
Floating Toothpick Magic Trick
This trick gives liquid soap a little mojo (we aren’t talking dirty dishes). Getting the five toothpicks to stay in the right place while floating in the water will be your little magician’s hardest challenge. This trick is all about the science of water and surface tension, so kids will be learning a little something, too! You can find out how to master this gimmick over at Kid Zone.
photo: Gabby Cullen
Magnetic Pencil Magic Trick
From levitating, and rubber-esque scribblers, to sticking a #2 through your head; there is more than one way to perform a magic pencil trick. The one we like for beginning magicians will defy the laws of magnetic forces—the pencil will seem to be stuck to the performer’s hand. Magneto would approve! Find out how to perfect this trick here.
photo: Gabby Cullen
Coin-in-Matchbox Magic Trick
Presto! The classic coin-in-matchbox not only looks super cool, but after a few practice rounds, it’s a trick even a muggle can manage. You don’t need anything but the box, a coin, and a few views of this awesome tutorial from Instructables.
Show Dad the L-O-V-E this year with a crafty card made at home
Father’s Day is nearly here! To celebrate the amazing job your special dad does every day, why not celebrate with one of these homemade Father’s Day card ideas? You don’t have to be a master crafter or daring DIYer to make one, so dust off your crafting stash and check out some genius Father’s Day cards!
This adorable handmade Father’s Day card idea is pretty easy, and it’s definitely one he’ll want to keep. Have your kids pick out the character they want to use, and have fun with it.
This Bomb Pop card is a super cute and easy way to make a card your kid’s “pop” will love! Also, take the perfect opportunity to follow it up with actual yummy Bomb Pops afterward.
This homemade Father’s Day card idea perfectly fits the bill for the handyman in your life.
Cricut-Made Father's Day Card Idea
Karly Wood
Is the dad in your life into everything? This DIY card is the perfect fit! Made with a Cricut Joy, we snagged this completely free design and let this mini machine do all the work. Peppered with images of outdoor activities, and typical dad icons, this card will perfectly communicate about your fave father.
For DIY-obsessed dads, we love this easy idea from Lil’ Luna. It’s a free printable, so all you have to do is print it out, cut it out and stick it on the gift card of your choice.
Get your little one involved in making this simple homemade Father's Day card idea from Solis Plus One. Tots can go to town filling the page with color.
Emojis are so yesterday. Use sign language to tell Dad how you really feel about him. Delia Creates has designed stylish (and free) downloadable templates that your sidekick can use to choose just the right message to tell Dad how much he means to everyone. It’s almost too easy!
Timepieces like this creative fill-it-out-yourself booklet designed by Hello, Wonderful are what memories are made of. Your guy will forever cherish the innocently hilarious answers his kiddos give to creative questions like, “the most fun thing I’ve done with my dad is…” and “my dad smells like…”.
Surprise Dad when he walks through the door on his special day with this colorful card that doubles as a banner. Let him slowly pull out the greeting, like a magician pulling an endless string of hankies from his sleeve. Then hang it across the mantle, so Dad really gets the message. Skip over to Modern Parents Messy Kids for the tutorial.
This coloring superhero card by Alpha Mom is an easy-breezy option that ranks high on the cuteness factor—the best combo if we say so ourselves. The kids can customize the fill-in-the-blank section to make it their very own.
Chalk, check. Driveway, check. Adorable kids that make your photo come to life, double check. That’s everything you need to make this sweet Father’s Day card we spotted over at Crafty Texas Girls. Looking for a gift too? Have the photo turned into a mug, mousepad, or keychain!
Between a great meal, a nap, a chance to cheer for his favorite team or dad-on-kid quality time, you can keep it simple when deciding on Dad's gift this year. This printable card from Julep is ready for him to spin the wheel of wish lists and decide just what he wants most for Father’s Day. Card AND gift completed.
Celebrate the spider-killing, boo-boo-kissing guy who waits patiently at the bottom of the slide so his cutie pie can slide confidently down, knowing he’ll be there, with this well-earned jar of goodies. Let your little one decide what to fill it with. And find the free printable at Tatertots and Jello.
This bow-tie card is a keeper, especially when you take a photo of your little one holding it and turn it into a gift or (even better!) dad’s new screen saver. The template and tutorial are available at Julep. This a perfect DIY card for the three and under set—easy-peasy—just the way we like it!
What’s better than shopping at your favorite store? Being a total bargain shopper and scoring a deal on the things you need and want. With growing families and rising costs on everything from groceries to gas, every dollar saved can make a big difference, so we’ve rounded up the best tips for how to save money at Target, Costco, IKEA, Aldi, and more.
Target
Target
Target might be the store where you spend the most, but there are plenty of ways to save every time you visit.
Target's Circle Rewards is the best place to start. Sign up for the free program that gives you 1% back on all your purchases, which can be spent at Target. Members also get special deals, early access to sales, and a birthday gift. You can access the rewards through your Target app, which also features Target's Circle offers. Circle members also receive a bonus once in a while, so be sure to search the app before you hit the aisles.
Hit the Dollar Spot. Bullseye's playground can be a treasure trove of bargain items, especially when needing goody bag items, stocking stuffers, or Easter basket fillers.
Pick the best day to shop. According to RetailMeNot, Target pushes out clearance items in each department on specific days, so the day you shop can impact your savings. These are the days rumored to be the best clearance prices for each item: Mon.: electronics, accessories, kids' clothing, books, baby items; Tues.: women's clothing, pets, food; Wed.: men's clothing, health, and beauty, diapers, lawn, and garden, furniture; Thu.: housewares, lingerie, shoes, toys, sporting goods, luggage, decor; Fri.: auto, cosmetics, hardware, jewelry.
Check the weekly ad. Like the classic coupon section of the newspaper, Target still offers a weekly ad. You can even sign up to have savings emailed to you.
Check the Promotions. Target lists all their promotions, from Buy One Get One to Free Gift with Purchase on their website, so check it before you go.
Shop during Deal Days. They pop up right around Amazon Prime Day, so be on the lookout to save up to 50% on items like electronics, home items, clothing, and more.
You can also sign up for Target's RedCard to earn 5% cash back. If you don't feel like getting another credit card, Target also offers a debit card that links to your existing checking account and offers the same benefits.
Stack your coupons. Target allows you to combine store coupons with manufacturer's coupons, Cartwheel offers, and RedCard discounts so you can save four ways at the same time.
If the store is out of stock on a sale item, simply ask for a raincheck. Target will generally guarantee any sale price, other than clearance items and limited-edition lines.
Don't miss the aisle endcaps or the back of the store. You'll often spot Target's red sticker clearance items that can score you up to 70% off on certain items.
Set up a registry. You'll get 15% off any items on your registry that aren't purchased, so even if you think you're not going to be gifted something add it anyway.
You can never manage to make it out of Target with just what you came for, so if you really want to save money your best bet is to skip the store altogether and order online. Target also offers same-day drive-up service at over 1,250 stores so you can just pull up, get your items and go. Don't forget that you can shop for clearance items online as well.
Costco
iStock
Costco has everything, including many ways to save money when you shop at the discount warehouse. It's not often you can save money on gift cards, but Costco is one of the best places to score a deal on buying what is essentially money. You can score big discounts on gift cards, like $100 worth of Build-A-Bear credit for $80. This comes in handy over the holidays or for end-of-the-school-year gifts.
If you're looking to save money on prescriptions, then head to the Costco pharmacy where you can earn deep discounts even without insurance coverage.
Book your next family vacation with Costco and you're sure to save. Costco Travel offers deals on theme parks, hotels, airfare, car rentals, and more.
Going to the movies with a family shouldn't break the bank, but it can. Luckily at Costco, you can buy a 10-pack of movie tickets at a discounted price and they never expire.
Buy all the name-brand stuff. Usually, ALDI doesn’t do brand names, but when they do, it’s anywhere from 20-40 percent cheaper than the other stores.
If you're looking to restock your wine bar, there's no better place to score a deal than ALDI. When a good wine is on sale, however, it goes fast so the best way to save is to buy a few bottles at once, or you might not see the same deal again.
To save the most, make your ALDI trips on Wednesdays and Sundays when you can score deep discounts in the ALDI Find's section. Wednesday is also the day that you will find the best deals on meat, with savings of up to 57%.
With ALDI's "Twice As Nice Guarantee," the store will refund your money on any ALDI-brand item simply because you didn't like it. That's always helpful when your kids insist they will eat something and then suddenly refuse it.
Shop for seasonal items at ALDI to save some money. Decorative items and speciality holiday foods are often a better deal than at some of your other favorite spots, like Target.
The best way to save money at IKEA is by joining the free IKEA Family reward program. You'll be alerted to special sales and receive exclusive product discounts, not to mention a free cup of coffee every time you visit.
Another cool Family reward program perk? If you check in at a kiosk or use your family member card at check-in, you'll be entered to win a $100 gift card. They have a drawing every month!
Did you refurnish the kids' bedroom a month before everything went on sale? Don't worry IKEA has one of the best price match guarantees and will give you a price adjustment for up to 90 days after purchase.
To find some great deals pay a visit to the As-Is section, where you'll find returned and open-box items at deep discounts up to 50 percent off. Shop on Monday for the best finds after everyone has made returns over the weekend.
To be alerted to upcoming sales and deals, follow IKEA on Facebook and sign up for mobile alerts to receive text notifications.
The best way to save money with Amazon is by becoming a Prime member. From free shipping, which will soon be just one day, to discounts at Whole Foods, the savings, and benefits are more than worth the cost of membership. You also save money as a member by opting for slower delivery. The No-Rush Shipping Program allows members to automatically get a discount at check-out or a promotional reward posted to their Prime account.
Sign up for the Amazon Rewards Card from Chase. You'll get 5% back on amazon.com and at Whole Foods, 2% back at gas stations, restaurants, and drugstores, and 1% back on all other purchases.
You can save money by cashing in your credit card rewards points. For example, Amex customers can earn $30 off of a purchase of $60 or more when they cash in rewards points for a limited time.
Save money and the planet with Amazon's Trade-In program that allows customers to send in old electronics, like smartphones and video games, for recycling in exchange for Amazon gift cards.
Want to save money on games and apps? Use Amazon's FreeTime Unlimited. When you purchase an Amazon Fire Kids Edition tablet you'll score a month of FreeTime Unlimited at no extra cost which gives you access to thousands of apps, videos, and books at no additional cost.
The best way to save money at Trader Joe's? Simply shop at Trader Joe's. The grocery chain doesn't feature any sales, but that's because its prices are often as good as it gets.
Still, if you're looking to save, the best time to shop at Trader Joe's is on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings when products are just being restocked, and you'll find the best selection in produce to maximize your money's worth.
Speaking of produce, you'll never want to make a Trader Joe's run without adding bananas to your list, at just 19 cents each, you really can't find a better deal.
Check out these tips from The Krazy Coupon Lady to learn all sorts of ways to save money on Apple products. Find out when the best times to buy certain Apple products are, ways to save money on Apple purchases, tips to get the most value out of your Apple devices and so much more. Also, save 5% when you use your Target RedCard on Apple products that Target sells. If you're going to make an Apple purchase, it's helpful to know that there are easy ways to save some money at checkout.
Do you ever wonder how to be a good neighbor? It can be as simple as waving hi, chatting up the family next door, or helping someone out when they need a hand. Remember, it’s never too late to strengthen your bond with the people who live next door, across the street, or at the end of the block. Here are 12 simple ways you and the kids can connect with your neighbors today and every day.
1. Ask them their name. This seems like a no-brainer, but so often we don’t know even know our neighbor’s names!
2. Exchange phone numbers. A simple gesture that says you’re looking out for them.
3. Bake something. The holidays often bring this kind of tradition, but why not invoke it on a random Wednesday? Few people will be disappointed in freshly baked bread, cookies, or other goodies. And everybody loves coffee cake.
4. Plant it. A cutting from your favorite houseplant or a pre-potted begonia: even a small bouquet of flowers is a sweet and inexpensive way to say, “Hey!”
6. Make it a double. Next time you’re at the store, grab an extra bar of soap, dishwashing liquid or another cleaning product and gift it to your neighbor. It doesn’t need to be expensive, and keep in mind many people have chemical and scent sensitivities.
7. Make a hello card. Have the kids paint or draw a simple card that just says “Hello, neighbor!”
8. Carry the load. Help unload the trunk of the car or pick up a package from the bottom of the stairs and place it in front of their door.
9. Invite them to dinner. Make dinner at your house or meet them at your favorite place. There are so many options for your comfort level.
10. Do a work exchange. Mow their lawn, shovel their driveway, pull weeds or something similar. Even if you live in an apartment building you can help tidy up communal spaces or carry their recycling down to the street.
11. Organize a pot-luck. If you don’t have the space to do this in your own place, use a nearby park or community center. Make simple invites that you hand-deliver and set a time limit.
12. Start a club. If you share a passion or hobby with your neighbor, do this hobby together or start a group in your community. This could be a book club, knitting club, woodworking club and so on. The options are endless!
