Your Month-By-Month Guide to Activities During Baby’s First Year

by Oz SpiesApril 17, 2024

Your baby’s first year will be a whirlwind of dirty diapers, meeting milestones, and flashing charming, toothless smiles that’ll melt your heart. Amid all that, it’s hard to know when they’re ready for new experiences, like swim classes or their first airplane trip. That’s where we come in. If you’re trying to figure out how to balance what baby can do with places to have fun (we know you’re ready to get out there), simply pull up this list. It matches fun baby activities with the right age to introduce each.

Places to Have Fun: 0-3 months

a park is a place to have fun with a baby — iStock

Go on a Walk

Strolls around the block, through a nearby park, or in your favorite neighborhood are great at any age for you and your baby. It’s a chance to get out of the house, breathe some fresh air, and maybe even run into a friend or two. Speaking of, this is one of those baby activities that’s best with another parent. That way you can gab and share and get that support that all new parents need.

Take a Baby and Me Yoga Class

If your two-month-old naps easily in a car seat or stroller, you might be ready for a baby and me yoga class, where you can get some exercise and meet some other new parents, too. Some classes are also designed to include babies in the movements. Just make sure your little one is ready to participate before making the switch.

Meet Up with Family

Whether you head out to a coffee shop to meet up with grandparents, or you bring a picnic to a nearby park to meet up with baby’s uncle, those first few months are a great time for family (near and far) to meet your newest addition. The best part? These folks are going to want to hold your baby, and unlike most who ask, we’re pretty sure you’ll let them.

Join a Parent Workout Class

Finding the time to work out in those first few months can be challenging. But if you can bring baby along with you, you’ve at least got a fighting chance. National programs like FIT4MOM include babies in the workout, so you can get out, get exercise, and meet other new parents.

Good to Know: The American College of Obstetrics & Gynecologists (ACOG) gives the green light to working out a few days after giving birth if you had an easy vaginal delivery. But it’s best to consult with your OB-GYN before starting back into a workout routine.

Places to Have Fun: 3-6 Months

the zoo is a good place to have fun with a baby — iStock

Visit Your Local Zoo or Aquarium

A trip to the zoo offers loads of new sights and sounds for a stroller-bound five- or six-month-old. A petting zoo can be a great sensory experience and a chance to practice farm animal sounds. If there’s not a zoo nearby, you can get some animal time by heading to a local dog park to watch the puppies play.

Related: The Very Best Zoos in the U.S.

Try Storytime

Most libraries and lots of independent bookstores across the country offer free storytime sessions for babies and toddlers. Many even have special times for the youngest babes. Starting around four months old, your child will love snuggling with you to enjoy rhymes, songs, and super-short stories.

Go for a Hike or a Run

Simple walks are good for those first few months. But when your wee one is a bit more stable around three to four months, you can head out for longer, bumpier treks into the great outdoors. At that age, babies can ride in a solid, structured back carrier, which makes your adorable load easier to carry on extended treks.

Places to Have Fun: 6-9 Months

A mother holds her baby over head on a beach — iStock

Explore the Beach

Around this time, babies are learning to crawl. If you’re lucky to time this developmental stage with summertime, we couldn’t think of a better place to explore than a nearby beach. Sand works surprisingly well as a surface to learn to crawl. And babies this age love the sensation of sand running through their fingers and squishing under their toes.

Swing at the Park

You’ve been waiting to take your baby to the playground forever, and now is the time. The baby swings at your local playground are perfect for little ones who can sit up on their own and control their head. Try out a swing at six months to see if your baby enjoys it, and expect them to love it by eight or nine months. To make the seat more comfortable for them, tuck a blanket in front of, or behind, your baby to fill out the bucket swing.

Sign Up for a Music Class

Although baby may be too little for an at-home dance party, that doesn’t mean you can’t make music a part of baby’s life. Around seven months, when kids can sit up and bang a rattle, parent and me music class starts to be extra fun for little ones and their grown-ups. Hint: they’re even more fun when you bring a friend.

Visit a Local Children’s Museum

Most children’s museums have set up awesome, interactive centers specifically for babies and toddlers under three. They’re equipped with soft pillows to scramble across and big blocks to stack. Try this when your crawler needs a safe, fun place to explore, starting right around eight months of age.

Places to Have Fun: 9-12 Months

a mom and baby in a swimming pool, places to have fun — iStock

Try a Swim Class

The American Academy of Pediatrics says kids as young as age one may be ready to start swim lessons—and research suggests that swim lessons for kids under age four reduces the risk of drowning. If you have a water baby on your hands, your child might enjoy splashing around in a parent and me swim class starting around this age.

Take a Baby Gym Class

Active crawlers, usually between eight to ten months, will get a kick out of a gym class. They can scramble over pyramids of pillows and giggle underneath a parachute, all in a super-cushioned play area. All that activity tires kids out, which usually translates into good, long naps.

Get a New Set of Wheels

At age one, your not-so-tiny-anymore baby should be ready to try a ride-on toy. From trikes to toddler-sized fire trucks, anything with wheels and foot-to-floor action is a hit with toddlers. Hint: it makes a great first-birthday present.

Make sure to capture all of your first-year fun—and share it 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.

33 Ways for a Mother & Daughter to Spend Time Together

by Leah R. SingerApril 10, 2024

Have a water fight, take a road trip, or just talk. There are so many daughter & mother activities mothers that’ll strengthen the bond

Between school, work, and keeping the family afloat, sometimes it’s tough for mother-daughter activities to come front and center. To help you keep that bond strong, we found 33 of the very best ideas. Whether your daughter is 5 or 15, keep reading to discover mother-daughter activities you’ve got to try at least once.

1. Play a game of basketball. Even if you aren’t the next Steph Curry—you can still shoot hoops with your daughter. Plus, it’s a great workout!

2. Have a spa day. Every mom and daughter deserves the royal treatment at least once. A soothing mask, manicure, pedicure, and refreshing cucumber water will make for a memorable day.

3. Write in a journal together. Sometimes talking about our feelings is tough. But using a mother-daughter journal to share our dreams and disappointments can be a great bonding experience (and a wonderful keepsake for the future).

4. Have a movie marathon. Pick a series of movies (Star Wars, Harry Potter, Disney), pop popcorn, and make a day of movies in your family room.

5. Go on a road trip. Nothing says togetherness like riding in a car for a long time. Create a playlist of music you both want, pick a destination, and start driving.

6. Set up and finish a jigsaw puzzle. A puzzle guarantees hours of quality time with your daughter.

7. Run a race. Whether it’s a 5k or a 1-mile fun run, train with your daughter and show her that girls can do anything!

8. Go out to eat. Pick a spot from our ultimate list of restaurants where kids eat for free.

9. Have regular mommy-daughter dates. Whether it’s a lunch date, a walk to the park, or visiting a local museum, you don’t have to wait for a special occasion to spend time with your daughter.

10. Pick a Pinterest project to tackle. You know all those crafts and projects you have pinned? Find a perfect one for a mother-daughter team and make an afternoon of it.

Related: 12 Everyday Ways to Celebrate Your Kids

a good mother daughter activity is reading together — iStock

11. Read together. Whether your daughter is two or 12, you'll never forget the experience of bonding over words together when you read a book.

12. Set up a science project. Studies show girls lose interest in science by age 15, so start early and keep her engaged to fight this startling statistic. Try some of these classic science experiments at home.

13. Go to high tea. Find a fancy hat and get your pinkies up. High tea is a luxurious activity every mom and daughter should do at least once.

14. Volunteer or do a community service project. There are a lot of community activities for families. Pick an activity that will help mom and daughter give back to others while spending time together.

15. Schedule a professional photoshoot. Most moms have hundreds of photos of their daughters, and we all love a good selfie. But having a photographer other than yourself capture lasting memories is a gift you'll enjoy well into the future. We love Shoott, the company that connects local photographers with people who want their pictures taken.

16. Go to a fancy dinner. Make a reservation for a restaurant you've always wanted to try and have a date night with your daughter.

17. Have a water fight. Invest in some balloons and water guns and spend the day getting wet.

18. Learn to build something. Put your girl power into action, and perfect your building skills at a class through Home Depot or another hands-on workshop. There's no reason the hammer and drills should be left to fathers and sons.

19. Have a one-on-one conversation. We've got 47 conversation starters right here.

20. Have a picnic. Pack a picnic lunch (or buy a delicious sandwich at a local shop) and find a pretty outdoor spot. Spend some time eating, chatting, reading, or playing together.

a good mother daughter activity is spending time cooking — iStock

21. Bake a cake or cook a full dinner. You've probably enlisted your daughter's help baking cookies or peeling veggies. Take your culinary skills up a notch and attempt to create an entire cake or a four-course meal.

22. Travel to a new city. You can take a plane ride to another state or drive to the next town. Explore a new city with your daughter, and see what interests both of you.

33. Have a good cry together. Showing your daughter that it's okay to express her feelings is important. And, it's important to show her that you're human, too.

24. Take a hike. Find a trail to explore. Wander through your local park. Stroll the beach, head up a mountain, or discover the desert. Enjoying nature together may open your eyes to many new things along the path.

25. Go on a shopping spree. While it's probably worth saving up some money for this indulgence, an afternoon shopping spree is something every mother and daughter should do together.

26. See a play or musical. Dress up, have lunch, and experience a play or musical at a local theater.

27. Take a painting class together. Get artsy and do a painting or crafting class together. You'll love seeing your unique perspectives come to life on the canvas.

28. Go to an amusement park. Some moms like theme parks as much (or more than) as the kids. Spend a day at the Happiest Place on Earth, or explore the features at Universal Studios.

a dance party is a fun mother daughter activity — iStock

29. Have a dance party. Blast your favorite playlist and dance, dance, dance.

30. Look through old photos and scrapbooks. Before the days of Facebook, we kept our memories printed in albums. Share your old photo albums and scrapbooks with your daughter, and tell her stories about those special times.

31. Go thrift shopping or antique hunting. It's fun to hunt through thrift shops and see what treasures you can find.

32. Go fishing. Who says fishing is just for the guys? Find a local fishing hole and spend an afternoon casting a line.

33. Play a board game. There are plenty of games that are perfect for a mother-daughter afternoon. You can even take the game to a local coffee shop or park to make the time more special.

13 Dos and Don’ts for Babywearing All Year Long

by Kate DaleyApril 4, 2024

As a parent, we never have enough hands to get all the things done. Enter babywearing. Strapping your infant to your body is a fantastic, hands-free way to check some items off your to-do list, but it’s also a very pleasant means for you and your baby to enjoy some much-needed fresh air. So what happens when the seasons change? Wearing your babe requires different prep depending on the time of year, whether you’re bundling up for a trek through the snow or making sure they don’t overheat on a hot summer’s day. To learn more about what to do (and not to do) when it comes to babywearing as the temperatures change, we spoke to Joanna McNeilly, a babywearing trainer and the founder of the Center for Babywearing Studies in New York City. Here are all her tips to help you and your little strap up and get outside safely.

Do have a chat with your pediatrician first.

Talk to your doctor before you strap on the carrier, says McNeilly, especially when you’ve got a newborn. Babies under four months or with any medical complications can have less neck stability, so there are a few strategies your doctor might recommend when it comes to carrying your baby safely. The key is ensuring that their airway is always clear and their neck and back are evenly supported. Facing your newborn inwards (so you can easily kiss the top of their head) helps you keep an eye on them so you can better monitor their breathing, which is especially important if you’re both bundled up.

Don’t overlook your baby’s age.

How you wear your kiddo depends on how old they are. If your baby is younger than six months, they’ll be inward-facing in the carrier. Once they hit the half-year mark and older (and have the appropriate neck strength) you can wear them outward-facing or even in a back carrier. As your little one grows, change your babywearing strategy and the layers required based on McNeilly’s advice below.

Do layer around the two of you.

A newborn can’t regulate their body temperature in the same way that an older baby can, so the closer they can be to your body the better, says McNeilly. This means that you should aim to have minimal clothing between you and your baby and, if it’s cool out, you can add more warm clothing around both of you. “Create an ecosystem just for the two of you,” suggests McNeilly. For example, you could wear a camisole so you have skin-to-skin contact on your chest and neck area with the baby. Then, you can put on a cardigan and wrap a blanket or a maternity or babywearing coat around you and baby. If it’s warm out, having your infant close to you will also help you recognize if they’re overheating.

Don’t rush to put them in their own snowsuit.

Even as your baby gets bigger, you may not want them in their own snowsuit in the chilly fall, winter, or spring seasons because they’re often slippery and slightly too big. This makes it hard to properly place them in the carrier and more challenging to tell your baby’s temperature the longer you’re out, says McNeilly.

Do take precautions in warm weather, too.

If you’re going for a walk on a toasty day you can try to avoid the sun by going earlier or later. Be sure to cover your baby’s head with a wide-brimmed hat and ensure they are wearing breathable materials like linen or cotton.

Don’t forget about fingers and toes.

Protecting your baby’s extremities is extremely important when the weather is cool. That means making sure they have thick socks, warm mittens, and a hat that properly covers their ears. “Try and keep their hands free so the baby can self-regulate,” recommends McNeilly. This way, they can also let you know if they’re stressed or hungry.

Do look for babywearing gear.

Many maternity coats can also accommodate babywearing and include side vents under your arms or along the sides of the coat. This ensures that you and your babe are cocooned together for easier monitoring and helps you regulate both of your temperatures as the weather changes. There are also extenders or carrier covers you can put on top of baby to keep them cozy or dry if it’s wet outside.

Don’t forgo proper footwear.

What you wear on your feet really matters when it’s icy or wet outside, especially when you’re carrying precious cargo. Opt for supportive waterproof boots with traction or slip-on ice grips depending on your environment. “If you’re heading out into nature, you can even use trekking poles in an area that’s slippery or rocky,” says McNeilly.

Do check the forecast before you head out.

Is it going to be drizzly, humid, or far below freezing? Tailor your baby’s outfits to the expected forecast and remember that the weather can also change quickly. It could rain in the morning and then turn to snow in the afternoon or vice versa, so pack outfit options accordingly.

Don’t ignore fussy behavior.

Sure, they may have had a bad morning nap or be coming up on a meal, but never assume that’s why a baby in a carrier is fussing. “If your baby starts moving differently than before, suddenly they are kicking, maybe crying out a bit, stop, pause, and check on them,” says McNeilly. Put your hands on their torso to get a sense of their temperature and check their hands and feet. If the baby won’t settle or gets very agitated, remove them from the carrier as soon as possible to check how they’re doing and make sure it’s not a temperature issue.

Do know your limits.

“Knowing that your pre-pregnancy self and post-pregnancy self may have different limitations that you need to explore is important,” stresses McNeilly. Perhaps before baby you could go for an hour-long walk or stay out all morning. When you’re babywearing and running on a lot less sleep, what you’re capable of doing might have changed. Test out babywearing close to home for the first few times in case it’s too much for either you or baby. “Aim for 30 minutes in the carrier,” says McNeilly. “It’s hard on your body in the beginning of babywearing if you are the birth mother. You’re right in recovery, so ultimately taking small steps means you can eventually go longer.”

Don’t forget to plan ahead.

Think through where you’re going to feed the baby or put them down for diaper changes while you’re out. If you’re both wearing lots of layers, it’s critical to consider the environment you’re walking to. Does the coffee shop, restaurant, or mall have a decent changing area? The last thing you want to do is to try and change a screaming baby where it’s wet, cold, or uncomfortable. Think through your options to make it a pleasurable experience, says McNeilly. “Practice at home before you go out, because once you’re out in the world and you’re stressed out, you are not going to be as confident to practice the transition in and out of the carrier.”

Do know when to stick with a stroller.

“It’s always okay not to babywear,” says McNeilly. “Sometimes it’s better to use a stroller if the circumstances are that it’s really icy or slippery.” And if you know you’ll be out all day and babywearing will physically be too much for both of you, a stroller is always a great alternative no matter what the weather. Plus, you can always do a mix of the two.

Now get out there, you two! The world is your oyster…for the next 30 minutes, at least.

19 Sensory Activities That Toddlers and Babies Love

by Gabby CullenFebruary 20, 2024

Sensory play is critical for toddlers’ and babies’ developing brains, and you’ll enjoy watching as your child discovers new textures and learns about cause and effect, all while having tons of fun. So the next time you’ve got some sensory play on your mind, try these easy DIY ideas you can put together in a jiffy. Many use household items you already have on hand, like baby-safe paint, to stimulate babies’ senses and satisfy their need for exploration. Others may require you to grab a few things the next time you’re out at the store so can create these sensory activities for toddlers and babies when the time comes. Either way, planning sensory play at your house has never been easier.

Sensory Activities for Toddlers

1. The Sweet Sound of Velcro

The family at Mama.Papa.Bubba discovered their little one’s fascination with VELCRO and share lots of creative ways to use it to engage your curious kid. VELCRO can be used on its own, so kids can learn about how it sticks together and comes apart, or with different materials (think shoelaces, stuffed animals, socks) so they can figure out what sticks and what doesn’t. This is a no-mess activity, making it a great choice for days when you just can’t clean up another spill.

backyard waterpark ideas — Inner Child Fun

2. Sponge Bombs

On warm days, these sponge bombs are fun for kids of all ages. Your littlest explorer will be fascinated by the shape, color and texture of the sponges, and how they absorb and release water, while older kids can play catch, surprise friends with an unexpected shower, or score baskets. These can also be enjoyed in the bath or in your kitchen (perhaps with cookie sheets or towels to contain the water). Find out how to make them at Inner Child Fun.

3. Bubbles & Blocks

And speaking of bubbles... Mama.Papa.Bubba put them together with DUPLO bricks for an easy way to keep kids entertained for a long time. Lay down a towel or plastic tablecloth, and fill a plastic container with blocks, soapy water (use baby wash or dish soap), and a dish brush or sponges. Then watch as your child explores the bricks, splashes the water, plays with the bubbles, and picks up the scrubber to get those bricks clean.

4. Cool Painting Trick

On a warm day, try out this idea from Domestic Mommyhood: painting with colored ice cubes. Using ice trays from your freezer, liquid watercolor, and tap water, make ice cubes and then head outside with some big sheets of white paper and watch kids use them like crayons to make their own masterpieces. Holding onto slippery ice cubes is a great way for little fingers to practice their grip strength, and we love that any mess from this activity is left outside.

5. Wonderful Water Beads

Pop by any preschool classroom and you’re likely to find kids and parents equally enamored with water beads. Something about their squishy texture just screams “play with me!” However, because they aren’t edible, sharing them with young children means getting creative. Meri Cherry has the great idea to fill resealable bags with these beads, seal ‘em up with duct tape, and let your little one squish, mush and roll to their heart’s content (under your supervision, of course).

6. A Rainbow of Exploration

Fill a container of any size and shape with almost any assortment of objects and voila! Instant entertainment for your little one. Little Bins for Little Hands tells you all you need to know to make one (or several bins), using items already in your home. Raid the pantry for beans, rice or cereal; head to the kitchen for measuring cups, spoons and whisks; duck into the yard for flowers, grass, pinecones and rocks; or hit up your closet for bracelets, shoelaces, old keys and buttons.

7. Spectacular Spaghetti

What’s colorful, slimy and completely fascinating? Cooked spaghetti. Spice it up with a bit of color, throw in some alphabet shapes, and you have an afternoon of sensory play for wandering toes, exploring mouths and bright eyes. It's another great idea from Anna at The Imagination Tree.

8. Make It Rain

Rain sticks take some time and work to create, but this is a musical instrument that will keep kids engaged for a long time. The Imagination Tree shares the instructions, which involve putting nails into a cardboard tube and filling it with small items (like rice, lentils, and barley) to make interesting sounds. Use one item per tube so each will make a different sound, just perfect for an impromptu jam session.

9. Welcome to the Coffee Shop

This coffee shop activity from Happy Hooligans combines two of our favorite things: imaginative play and sensory exploration. With just a few ingredients, including sand, water, dish soap and coffee cups, your toddler can set up a play coffee shop and explore mixing ingredients in different proportions and serving your family, all while learning about cause and effect, textures, and the basics of running their own restaurant.

10. Cotton Ball Bonanza

Want to take a quick shower? Let your child entertain themselves with a container of water and some cotton balls. As with most sensory play, simpler is often better when it comes to engaging little minds. Kids can explore how cotton balls absorb water, how the water comes out when you squeeze them, and how dry cotton balls stick together and come apart. This easy, inexpensive idea comes from Fun at Home with Kids.

11. Super Seeds

Also from our friends at Fun at Home with Kids comes this edible, safe-for-little-mouths activity uses basil seeds instead of the more common water beads. These seeds absorb water, resulting in a squishy, jelly-like consistency, and can be dyed any color you like. From there, your little one can scoop, pour, fill, empty, press, swirl, and more, all without you worrying about a choking hazard.

Sensory Play for Babies

12. Foamy Fun

Bubbles! Grab your hand mixer, dish soap, water, and food coloring to make this foamy soap that will entrance your child. Spoon it into a tray or low plastic bowl and add plastic animals or bath toys for even more fun. If you can't play outside, lay down a large towel underneath or put your tray in the bathtub for minimal mess. This good, clean fun doubles as an easy way to clean some kid toys. Get the instructions for this sensory play idea at Little Bins for Little Hands.

13. Jiggling Jello

Hands On As We Grow has an anthropological spin on the snack-time favorite by suggesting you insert small toys (or beans, rice, or beads) into the Jell-o, let it set, and then let your little one study how objects are suspended inside, and dig into it to see what they can extract. Your child will probably smell the fruity Jell-o, but if they take a nibble, watch closely for any choking hazards. It can get messy, so you might want to lay down a towel or tray or take this project outside or into the tub to minimize clean-up.

14. Toddler Tunnel

The folks at Toddler Approved are onto something with this simple yet brilliant idea to attach ribbons of varying lengths, widths and textures to an old box and letting your little one crawl in and out, feel the ribbons passing over their body, drag the box around, and play peek-a-boo with it. This creation can be left out and re-used or re-purposed, given it extra longevity and entertainment value.

15. Rice, Rice, Baby

One of our favorite bloggers, Fun at Home with Kids, came up with a fun and super-easy idea for rice play. Why rice? It makes a neat swishy sound and is safer than sand for babies who put everything (and we mean everything!) in their mouths. Just add a tray and some wooden toys and your tot will be occupied for a good chunk of time.

16. Pinterest for Babies

Make a cool "pin" board in a flash. Just grab the hot glue and some kid-friendly scraps you may have lying around the house for an eclectic collection of textures and colors. Check out Laughing Kids Learn for the DIY guide.

17. Star Light, Star Bright

Fill a jar with twinkle lights for your child's own personal light show! Watch them roll it, bang on it, even gnaw on the jar. Just make sure that the top is on tightly. Dayna and the gang at Lemon Lime Adventures show you how it’s done.

18. Splish, Splash!

All children love water play. To engage younger kids, you just need to dribble a little water on a cooking sheet, add a couple of balls, and watch baby explore the wet space. Get more on this from the mama at Dirt and Boogers.

19. Rolling in the Dough

Soft and shimmery, light and flaky, this baby-safe cloud dough is made with just two ingredients (whole-grain rice cereal and coconut oil) and is safe for wee ones to get in their hands, hair and even mouths. Head to the Lemon Lime Adventures blog for supermom Dayna's recipe for cloud dough.

Make sure to capture all the messy fun—and share it 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.

Can You Drink Coffee While Breastfeeding?

by Casey ClarkJanuary 5, 2024

You’ll want to know exactly how many cups you can have and what to look out for if your baby has caffeine sensitivity

There’s nothing that a morning cup of joe can’t fix—well, a crying newborn, but at least it’ll give you more energy to soothe them and go about your day. And you’re probably going to need all the fuel you can get while settling into new motherhood, whether you’re craving a gingerbread latte from Starbucks or an americano from your local coffee shop. But if you’re planning on bodyfeeding your baby, we’d guess there’s one big question on your mind: can you drink coffee while breastfeeding?

To get to the bottom of this, we asked the experts whether consuming caffeine while breastfeeding or chestfeeding is safe for both you and the baby—and exactly how much of that sweet, sweet energy juice you can have each day.

Can you drink coffee while breastfeeding or chestfeeding?

Breathe in a big sigh of relief because the answer is yes, you can drink coffee while nursing. Phew! What’s important is moderation and keeping an eye on your baby for any potential caffeine sensitivity, says Ashley Georgakopoulos, IBCLC, a certified lactation consultant and lactation director at Motif Medical.

How much coffee can you drink while breastfeeding?

You’re probably painfully aware of exactly how many cups you were allowed to drink while expecting, and the good news is you can have a little more once baby is on the outside. “During pregnancy, the recommendation is no more than 200 mg of caffeine a day,” says Dr. Denise Scott, a pediatrician and JustAnswer expert. “Caffeine intake while breastfeeding should be limited to 200-300 mg daily, which is equivalent to 2-3 cups of coffee.”

Georgakopoulos agrees, saying you should cap your caffeine intake at 300 mg per day. To put that into perspective, an 8-ounce cup of brewed coffee has around 96 mg of caffeine, a cup of black tea contains 47 mg, a shot of espresso has 64 mg, and a can of Coca-Cola has 32 mg.

Every body reacts differently to caffeine, especially if you’ve weaned yourself off of it for pregnancy, so if you start to suspect that your Grande latte is messing with your sleep, consider drinking even less.

Do babies ever react to caffeine? What are the signs and symptoms?

The way a baby responds to your beloved java generally varies based on the individual. And while caffeine does pass into breastmilk, your baby only gets around 1.5% of the amount of caffeine that you drank, according to La Leche League Canada.

“Agitation, crankiness, difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, and a change in stool are common side effects that a mother might see in her baby,” explains Nicole Peluso, IBCLC, who manages lactation education at Aeroflow Breastpumps. “Some caffeine side effects are more difficult for a mother to observe in her baby, such as heart arrhythmias.” Peluso adds that this isn’t common, but if you notice any of these symptoms or feel like something isn’t right, you’ll want to consult your pediatrician to see what’s going on.

Additionally, caffeine consumption may affect the quality of breastmilk. Coffee intake of more than 450 mL daily (approximately two cups) may decrease breastmilk iron concentrations and result in mild iron deficiency anemia in some breastfed infants, according to the Drugs and Lactation Database.

Since most babies are born with sufficient iron for their first six months of life, this isn’t usually a problem until they’re older, according to the CDC. After that time, breastmilk no longer provides sufficient iron, and even less so if you’re consuming tons of caffeine. So it’s best to keep your coffee in check while nursing and make sure your little is getting sufficient iron from solids.

Is it better to drink decaf coffee while breastfeeding?

Most decaffeinated coffee still has caffeine in it but much less than traditional black coffee or espresso. According to La Leche League Canada, a 250 ml cup (8 oz.) of decaffeinated coffee contains between 3 and 15 mg of caffeine. This means you can either have more coffee throughout the day or enjoy your usual amount of coffee with significantly less caffeine, limiting the chance of any negative side effects. But it’s totally up to each parent since experts agree that drinking some regular coffee isn’t a concern.

What is the best time of day to have caffeine while nursing?

You’ll want to have your caffeinated beverage a few hours before you intend to breastfeed. “Caffeine peaks in the breastmilk an hour after consumption, so if you enjoy your cup a few hours before breastfeeding, that will help keep taste changes (and caffeine content) to a minimum,” says Dr. Navya Mysore, primary care doctor in New York City.

Additionally, Peluso adds that opting to drink coffee and other caffeinated beverages in the morning (before noon) will give both mom and baby the best chance of getting restful nighttime sleep. It’s also a good idea to limit caffeine intake when your baby is cluster feeding since there’s less time between feeds and this usually happens at night.

Are the guidelines different for newborns and premature babies?

“Babies who are premature, under six months, or have other health issues may be more likely to be sensitive to caffeine compared to older babies as they take longer to clear caffeine from their system,” says Dr. Mysore.

Caffeine guidelines are the same across the board, but remember that every baby is different, and if you suspect that yours might be sensitive to caffeine give your doctor a call to discuss decreasing your consumption.

What other foods and beverages contain caffeine?

To keep your total daily caffeine intake in check while breastfeeding, here’s a list of some other sources of caffeine, some of which you may not have realized:

White and green teas (15-39 mg for 8 oz.)
Soft drinks (30-35 mg for 8 oz.)
Dark chocolate bar (80 mg caffeine per bar)
Energy drinks (70 mg for 8 oz.)
Yerba mate or guarana (85 mg for 8 oz.)
Some over-the-counter medications (like pain relievers, cold remedies, and diuretics) also contain caffeine.

You can rest assured that no one is coming to pry that lukewarm cup of coffee out of your deeply exhausted hands. Just stick to the recommended amount, watch your little for signs of sensitivity, and check in with your pediatrician if you think something’s not right.

How to Thank Your Mail Carrier This Holiday Season

by Amber GuetebierNovember 20, 2023

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!

christmas shipping deadlines for the USPS — 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!

Make a Thank You Card

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

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.

Leave a Thoughtful Gift

wondering how to thank your mail carrier? Leave a gift in the mailbox — iStock

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

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

this is how to thank your mail carrier — 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.

We Tried Both Club Med Resorts in the Dominican Republic and Here’s Why You Should Take the Kids

by Kate LowethNovember 10, 2023

These all-inclusive resorts have amazing kids club programs that are included with your stay

Thinking of heading to the Dominican Republic with your family? You definitely should! It’s a quick flight from the East Coast and offers some of the most gorgeous beaches, welcoming people, and delicious food in the Caribbean. Club Med is an easy choice for families as it is truly all-inclusive. You can have them book everything from your flights to your airport transfers and excursions so you don’t even have to think about anything beyond packing your suitcase.

Club Med offers two properties in the Dominican Republic: Club Med Punta Cana and Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda. Which of these all-inclusive properties is best for families? We have the full scoop on both and a tip on how you can even enjoy both on the same vacation!

Club Med Punta Cana

Club Med Punta Cana is the brand’s flagship family property and you can see the focus on kids before you even arrive. Once your reservation is booked and paid in full, you can sign your kids up for the Mini Club program that offers a full-day kids club experience. Activities like crafts, tennis, archery, circus school, and so much more are included for ages 4 and up at Club Med. For kids under age 4, on-demand care is available for an additional fee. You can even get care for your kids during dinner hours so they can head off with their friends while you enjoy a quiet meal with your partner.

The property’s Mini Club facilities were quite impressive. There’s a zero-entry splash zone for cooling off when the temps creep up. Rooms for dining and activities along with playground equipment are also available. While we were on the property, we saw tons of kids participating in everything from water games to a pirate scavenger hunt!

Accommodations at Club Med Punta Cana

We stayed in the two-bedroom family room while at Club Med Punta Cana and it was very well-appointed for families of up to five people. There’s a parent room with a king-size bed and bathroom, along with a couch that can be arranged as a bed for a child if needed. A separate bedroom with two twin beds for the kids has plenty of storage area and a door that closes. There’s also a second bathroom in the hallway and a balcony. The family rooms are conveniently located in the middle of the property with easy access to Mini Club and the main restaurant, Hispaniola.

If you have a baby coming along with you, the Club Med Baby Welcome Kit can be reserved in advance without additional cost and it comes with a baby bathtub, bottle warmer, changing table, umbrella bed, and stroller (this is also available at Michès).

In addition to the family accommodations, you can upgrade your stay to the Exclusive Collection space where you’ll have even more room to spread out. This part of the resort offers room service for breakfast, as well as a private pool and bar.

Head to the Zen Oasis when the kids are at Mini Club for some time in the adults-only pool. Accommodations are also available in this more secluded area of the property if you are traveling without little ones.

Dining at Club Med Punta Cana

Club Med Punta Cana has three restaurants available as part of the all-inclusive package. Hispaniola is your go-to spot for buffet dining which kids really love. Breakfast is our favorite with the omelette station taking top marks, but the dinner buffet with the chocolate fountain is a kid favorite. Hispaniola offers a gorgeous oceanfront view, was recently renovationed, and is open for all three meals.

For a la carte service with ocean views, Indigo is your spot. We especially enjoyed our dinner at Indigo with perfectly grilled meats and delicious sides. The Dominican offerings like the curry plate were also quite tasty. Samana Restaurant was closed for yearly maintenance during our stay but it offers a variety of cuisines including Caribbean, French, Italian, Asian, and more.

Things to Do at Club Med Punta Cana

If you want a full day of activities, Club Med Punta Cana is ready to provide. The Club Med app will lay out all the activities available for the day from organized beach volleyball games to power walking. There are different nightly performances and the Michael Jackson show was particularly fun.

Before you arrive, check out the themes for the nights you’ll be there. This ranges from white night to black/gold or floral. We were surprised how much the guests got into this while we were there! It’s not mandatory of course but most people would dress up in that night’s theme before they headed to dinner. It brings a festive vibe to the dining and nightly activities.

During the day, you can head to the beach for some time on the lounge chairs or watersports like snorkeling and sailing. Gear is available to check out but if your kids have their own goggles or floaties they like, you might want to bring them with you. We did find that the lobby shops were quite well stocked with anything we might have forgotten to bring with us.

Adults should definitely plan to spend some time at the onsite spa while you are there. Services like massages and facials are available for an additional cost but we think it’s definitely worth it for access to the gorgeous indoor/outdoor spa space. You can even book a couple’s massage with a view of the ocean.

Getting to Club Med Punta Cana

If you are looking for convenience, this is the spot for you. Fly into Punta Cana International Airport and then grab your shuttle to the resort. The property is located just a 20-minute drive from the airport so you don’t have a long van ride after your flight. Couldn’t be easier!

@k8loweth

Club Med Punta Cana @Club Med Punta Cana @ClubMed #clubmed #clubmedpuntacana #puntacana #dominican #dominicanrepublic

♬ LALA – Myke Towers

Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda

Club Med Miches Playa Esmeralda for families

Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda is an oasis in the Dominican jungle and you’re going to want to check it out. A 1.5-hour shuttle ride will get you from the airport to this Exclusive Collection property and you’ll be impressed by your gorgeous surroundings from the minute you walk through the open-air lobby and are treated to a refreshing drink.

At Michès, you’ll find the service to be elevated from access to a pre-arrival concierge to the superior room amenities. All rooms have access to breakfast room services which is very convenient when traveling with kids.

Club Med Michès is focused on sustainability and they even have a water bottling facility on-site, eliminating the need for single-use plastic bottles. You will find glass bottles available in your room and they replace them as you use them throughout your stay. You can also find bottle-filling stations around the property.

Accommodations at Club Med Michès

Four villages make up the accommodations and you’ll find a different vibe in each. Explorer Cove is where we stayed and it had good access to the main area of the resort with pool, as well as the Mini Club and beach. Families will enjoy the Deluxe Family Room which has an adult room with a bathroom, a separate room with two twin beds for the kids, plus a second bathroom. Limited snacks and beverages are available in the in-room fridge and you’ll have a Nespresso machine as well.

Other areas of the property include Caribbean Paradise (a colorful area for families and couples), Zen Oasis (a relaxing area for everyone), and Archipelago (an adult-exclusive area with suites). No matter where you stay, adults have access to the Zen Pool (pictured above). Believe us when we say that you won’t want to leave this area once you’ve seen it! This gorgeous green pool has lots of spots for sunbathing or reading in the shade, as well as a swim-up bar where you can get fresh-made smoothies or cocktails as you like. Claim one of the hammocks and you’ll be in heaven.

Mini Club at Club Med Michès

Just like at the Punta Cana property, kids ages 4 and up have access to the Mini Club program at Michès with similar offerings like circus school, water play, crafts, theater, and more. Infants from 4 months and up can have booked care for an additional price. The splash pad in the Mini Club area is available to families even if you aren’t using Mini Club that day. The dump bucket was a huge hit as you can imagine!

Dining at Club Med Michès

The gourmet food offerings at Michès really shine and you can see that from the moment you wake up. Head over to the coffee shop where you can find hot and cold coffee drinks, frozen yogurt, pastries, and small sandwiches.

The buffet at Cayuco had pretty much everything you could want from fresh fruit to Asian bowls to fresh-made pancakes. Adults dining without their kids can enjoy their meals in the adults-only area if they wish. Don’t miss Club Med’s signature white chocolate bread while you are there! Be sure you check the schedule for nights when they offer the Secret Chocolate Room experience. The kids will go wild when they learn that they can have as much chocolate as they can fit on their plates.

Coco Plum focuses on local specialties with many different seafood options as well as non-meat options. Try the fish tacos while you enjoy the waves crashing nearby.

Coal & Copper is the resort’s steakhouse that welcomes guests for an additional fee. We had an amazing meal here and the staff was very attentive. The portions are massive so make sure you are hungry when you arrive!

Things to Do at Club Med Michès

Take advantage of all the activities offered at Club Med Michès as there really is something for everyone. The treetop palapa is a lovely venue for morning yoga before you head to the nearby Zen Pool. Tennis lessons, fitness classes, watersports, circus lessons, and so much more are on the agenda. The tough part—balancing the relaxing with all the activities.

Club Med Michès has an excellent spa that we got to visit during our stay. Enjoy your time before or after your treatment trying out the three plunge pools that go from refreshingly cold to hot. Any way you like to relax is available here.

Nighttime brings all sorts of performances like traditional Dominican dancers and circus acts. Be sure to check the Club Med app for the schedule for the day so you know what to expect.

@k8loweth

Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda #clubmed #clubmedmiches #clubmedmichesplayaesmeralda #dominicanrepublic #travel

♬ Paradise – Bazzi

Things to Know about Visiting Club Med in the Dominican Republic

You can arrange a day trip to Club Med Punta Cana from Michès if you want to check out the other property. Some people even split their visit between the two properties if they want a little variety.
The mosquitos come out at dusk in Michès. The resort provides bug spray and sprays the property as well but keep that in mind if you are sensitive.
Mini Club can book up so if you are sure you want to use it during your stay, book it as soon as you arrive at the resort or in advance if possible.
Many families bring strollers or foldable wagons with them. Floaties for the swimming pool are also allowed (and sold at the gift shop at both locations).

Club Med does a great job welcoming families, setting space aside for parents to relax without their kids, and bringing visitors together for shows and parties. It really is quite the fun all-inclusive family vacation!

—images by the author except where noted.

Editor’s note: This trip was hosted by Club Med but all the opinions belong to the writer.

42 Gifts That’ll Be on Every 6-to 9-Year-Old’s List This Year

by Gabby CullenOctober 25, 2023

These toys and gift ideas for kids ages 6-9 include must-have items like the Bitzee Digital Pet and a Roblox gift card

It’s gift guide season, and today we’re tackling the elementary-age crowd (for younger kiddos, check out our preschoolers’ gift list and for the older crew our tween guide is a must-read). The 6-9 age group is so fun because they’re old enough to appreciate a thoughtful gift, yet still young enough to be wowed by the magic of it all. From the never-go-out-of-style gifts like LEGO sets to one of the hottest holiday toys of 2023, we’ve got a covetable selection of toys and gift ideas for kids ages 6-9 at a variety of budgets.

Air Hogs Zero Gravity Sprint

Air Hogs are a fun gift idea for kids ages 6 to 9

Zip, zoom, and drive this race car on any smooth surface, including the walls and ceiling.

Air Hogs Zero Gravity Sprint ($35)—Buy it here.

LEGO City Ski & Climbing Center

the new LEGO ski set is a good gift idea for kids ages 6-9

This new set includes eight minifigs, a warming hut, skis, snowboards, and even a snowman!

LEGO City Ski & Climbing Center ($119)—Buy it here.

LeapFrog® Magic Adventures™ Telescope

The LeapFrog® Magic Adventures™ Telescope features up to 110x magnification and lets kids zoom in on the moon at night or nature during the day. Capture and save what you see, and explore out-of-this-world discoveries and more through 100+ NASA videos and images on the 2.4” screen.

LeapFrog® Magic Adventures™ Telescope—Buy it here.

Miniverse Make It Mini Kitchen

Miniverse toys are a good gift idea for kids ages 6 to 9

If your grade school kiddo hasn’t been swept up in Minverse madness yet, here’s the perfect introduction. The kitchen comes with the UV-light oven needed to ‘make’ their treats, and two bonus recipes and oven mitts are also included.

Miniverse Make It Mini Kitchen ($40)—Buy it here.

Fortune Teller Book Kit

The paper fortune cookie tellers of our youth are back and better than ever. This book is filled with tear-out pages to fill in and fold up (in gender-inclusive designs!).

Fortune Teller Book Kit ($8)—Buy it here.

Marvel Avengers: Beyond Earth's Mightiest Action Figures

A new and improved set of Marvel’s most famous superheroes, including Captain America, Hulk, and Black Panther.

Marvel Avengers: Beyond Earth's Mightiest Action Figures ($25)—Buy them here.

LilGadgets Untangled Pro Wireless Headphones

They’ll need a pair for school and for travel, and these wireless headphones have a built-in microphone and come in 10 different colors.

LilGadgets Untangled Pro Wireless Headphones ($50)—Buy them here.

Hess 2023 Police Truck & Cruiser

Two toys for the price of one? We're there. This super durable set both light up and make sounds (but not overly annoying ones, we swear), plus they're collector's items. Hurry, though. They will sell out; they do every year.)

Hess 2023 Police Truck & Cruiser ($42.99)—Buy Here!

5 Second Rule Relay

5 Second Relay game is a good gift idea for kids ages 6-9

A mash-up of Pass the Baton and 5-Second Rule, this fast-paced game is a great gift idea for kids ages eight and up.

5 Second Rule Relay ($19)—Buy it here.

woom OFF 4 Bike

woom Bikes are designed specifically for kids and their needs. The woom OFF 4 Bike is a 20" bike that provides off-road capacity in a kid-friendly lightweight frame. Also available in black.

woom OFF 4 Bike ($849.00)—Buy it here.

Bitzee Digital Pet

One of the coolest new toys we’ve seen in 2023, kids can pet, feed, and play with up to 15 3-D digital pets. The more they play, the faster they level up!

Bitzee Digital Pet ($25)—Buy it here.

Pokemon Pikachu Train and Play

There are over 50 reactions to engage your budding trainer. Everyone's favorite Pokeman even moves his arms and his cheeks light up!

Pokemon Pikachu Train and Play ($30)—Buy it here.

Create Like Frida Self-Portrait Mirror Painting Kit

Creative kids will be inspired by the world’s most famous self-portrait artist with their own art set that includes three pre-printed and one blank decal.

Create Like Frida Self-Portrait Mirror Painting Kit ($25)—Buy it here.

Magic Treehouse Boxed Set

Encourage their love of reading with a set of this beloved book series that includes #1-28!

Magic Treehouse Boxed Set ($81)—Buy it here.

Beast Lab: Shark Beast Creator

One of the hottest gift ideas for kids in 2023, little scientists can combine all the ingredients they need to create their very own beast. The sounds, lights, and mist actions give this kit an authentic lab vibe.

Beast Lab: Shark Beast Creator ($70)—Buy it here.

Barbie's Dreamhouse for Nintendo Switch

This brand-new game isn’t just fun for Barbie lovers! Design gurus will enjoy picking wallpaper and decor to create the ultimate home for the iconic doll and her friends.

Barbie's Dreamhouse for Nintendo Switch ($40)—Buy it here.

Dig It Up! Ancient Artifacts

Indiana Jones doesn’t have anything on your curious kid. There are six molds that look like iconic historical items like the pyramids, a Viking helmet, and the Great Wall of China. Using excavating tools, kids will dig for treasures in each one.

Dig It Up! Ancient Artifacts ($40)—Buy it here.

The Otero Kid's Sunglasses

We love how Pair offers magnetic frames to customize your base frames, and we know kiddos will, too. Keep their sensitive eyes protected with a ton of color and lens options, so they can enjoy the sun in style.

The Otero Kid's Sunglasses (Starting at $60.00)—Buy Here!

Squishville 'What's Cookin'' Squad

Squismallows, but make them smaller. This collectible version of the cult-favorite stuffie includes all 12 members of the squad.

Squishville 'What's Cookin'' Squad ($35)—Buy them here.

WishCraft Flower Power DIY Soaps Kit

There are enough supplies to make six different beautiful soaps.

WishCraft Flower Power DIY Soaps Kit ($25)—Buy it here.

Sharper Image Laser Tag Set

Bring the fun of laser tag home! With light-up vests and action sounds, it’s like they’re in the arena.

Sharper Image Laser Tag Set ($30)—Buy it here.

Rainbow High Color & Create Fashion Doll

Rainbow High dolls are a popular gift idea for kids ages six to nine

New in 2023, this doll comes with blank clothing and washable markers so kids can design different clothes on a whim.

Rainbow High Color & Create Fashion Doll ($30)—Buy it here.

TMNT Mutant Mayhem Figures

A perfect gift idea for your elementary school kid who loves Leo, Donnie, Raf, and Mikey.

TMNT Mutant Mayhem Figures ($40)—Buy them here.

VTech Turbo Edge Riders Rally Track Set

VTech Turbo Edge Racers are a new gift idea for kids ages 6 to 9

Speedsters can create their own course with over nine feet of starter track, and you can incorporate materials you find around the house to create obstacles, tunnels, and more.

VTech Turbo Edge Riders Rally Track Set ($20)—Buy it here.

ThinkFun Rollercoaster Challenge

This STEM game is perfect for kids ages six and up. It’s Half logic, half roller coaster engineering, and 100% fun.

ThinkFun Rollercoaster Challenge ($30)—Buy it here.

Crayola Wixels Animal Activity Kit

Crayola Wixels is a fun gift idea for kids ages 6 to 9

Kids can use the color map to create pixelated animal art or create their own designs.

Crayola Wixels Animal Activity Kit ($15)—Buy it here.

Pokemon Bulbasaur Plush

This adorable guy is perfect for kids who still love stuffies, but are ‘too old’ for traditional options like teddy bears.

Pokemon Bulbasaur Plush ($30)—Buy it here.

Dog-E

All of the fun of a pet without the cleanup! This interactive pup is ready for love and care and even comes with six games, like Fortune Teller and Ultimate Nose Boop.

Dog-E ($79)—Buy it here.

Would You Rather? Box Set

Get your elementary school kids talking with three different sets of questions: Would You Rather? Family Edition, Would You Rather? Made You Think!, and Would You Rather? Christmas Edition.

Would You Rather? Box Set ($17)—Buy it here.

Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea

In the latest installment of Dav Pilkey’s popular elementary school series, Piggy is back! Who will stop him from attempting to put his diabolical plan into action?

Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea ($9.50)—Buy it here.

Iscream Neon Friendship Bracelet Tattoo Set

Kids can ‘gift’ their friends a friendship bracelet that pops with color and peels off easily.

Iscream Neon Friendship Bracelet Tattoo Set ($7)—Buy them here.

Kutsurogu Japanese Paper Shade Lamp

For your budding interior designer, this unique lamp is just the ticket. It’s handmade and battery-operated, so there’s no cord to hide.

Kutsurogu Japanese Paper Shade Lamp ($62)—Buy it here.

Roblox Gift Card

Give them plenty of Robux this holiday season because you know they’re going to ask for them anyway.

Roblox Gift Card ($25)—Buy it here.

Djeco Le Grand Dressing Room Paper Dolls

Djeco paper dolls are a good gift idea for kids ages 6 to 9

There are three dolls and over 110 items of clothing included in this sweet box set.

Djeco Le Grand Dressing Room Paper Dolls ($18)—Buy them here.

FlashCatch Light-Up Football

A light up football is a fun gift idea for kids ages 6 to 9

Kids don’t have to stop playing when the sun goes down with one of these LED-powered balls that lights up with every throw and catch.

FlashCatch Light-Up Football ($35)—Buy it here.

Fashion Plates Drawing Kit

Fashion plates are a fun gift idea for kids ages 6 to 9

The ‘90s called, but we’re not giving these back! As fun as ever, kids can design their own line of clothing with this kit that now includes a set of cool stickers.

Fashion Plates Drawing Kit ($25)—Buy it here.

Tech Deck 25th Anniversary Set

Tech Deck is a good gift idea for kids ages 6 to 9

The iconic mini skateboards get an anniversary makeover with this awesome limited edition collection.

Tech Deck 25th Anniversary Set ($20)—Buy it here.

Jellycat Amuseable Watermelon Bag

Fashionista alert! This super soft crossbody bag also comes in designs like toast, a cloud, a coffee cup, and a rainbow.

Jellycat Amuseable Watermelon Bag ($30)—Buy it here.

Harry Potter Magical Art Coloring Book

Muggles will enjoy bringing various scenes from the movies to life with this intricate book.

Harry Potter Magical Art Coloring Book ($11)—Buy it here.

Indoor Scooter Board

Let them move around even when the weather isn’t cooperating. Choose from four vibrant colors.

Indoor Scooter Board ($34)—Buy it here.

LEGO Dots Message Board

Budding tweens will love being able to express themselves! There are 531 pieces they can use to create their statements.

LEGO Dots Message Board ($20)—Buy it here.

Monopoly: The Super Mario Bros. Edition

Combine a classic board game with everyone’s favorite plumber brothers and what do you get? The ultimate family night.

Monopoly: The Super Mario Bros. Edition ($17)—Buy it here.

Brio Labyrinth

What we love about this version of the classic skills game is the extra wooden boards kids can swap out when they’ve mastered the first.

Brio Labyrinth ($60)—Buy it here.

Foil Scratch Art Kit - Geometric Animals

Six silver and gold scratch cards reveal beautiful geometric animals.

Foil Scratch Art Kit - Geometric Animals ($13)—Buy it here.

Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

Images courtesy of retailers.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.

Discovering Paradise: Azul Beach Resort in Negril, Jamaica

by Claire ZlobinSeptember 28, 2023

Miles of beaches, delicious Jamaican food, and relaxation await

Jamaica is home to Bob Marley, Usain Bolt, Appleton Rum, warm waters, and fantastic food. With its world-famous Seven Mile Beach, Negril is one of the country’s gems. Azul Beach Resort is stunningly located along Seven Mile Beach. You are at all times literally steps to the beach; with its boutique feel, it’s the perfect oasis for couples and families. When you visit Azul Beach Resort, it will be hard to choose what you love the most—the stunning sunsets, the food, the beach, or the people.

Everything You Need to Know about Azul Beach Resort in Jamaica

With nine restaurants, nine bars, seven pools, a spa, and a gym, this smaller property offers a very relaxed guest experience. There are only 283 rooms and most buildings have only two floors, which makes the amenities ratio to guests very favorable. The family suites have a separate living area and you have 12 different room types to choose from.

No need to worry about waking up early to reserve beach umbrellas; there are more than enough for everyone. The entire resort, except for the beach, is smoke-free so you can relax especially when traveling with kids.

Highlights from Azul Beach Resort in Jamaica

swim-up rooms azul beach resort jamaica — *Azul Beach Resort*

Activities galore: Whether you want the gym, spa, yoga, rum tasting, wine tasting, margarita workshops, dancing, or foam pool party, Azul Beach has it covered. We were really impressed with all the activities the resort offered throughout the day. Our favorite activity was the foam party at the pool.

Kids Club: The Azulitos Kids Club is quite large, with a variety of activities for kids ages 4-12. When the kids are at the Kids Club, adults can spend the day on the adults-only side of the property for a different feel.

Toddler All-Inclusive: Yes, that’s right. Almost everything you need for your baby and toddler is available, so you can pack light and relax, knowing your baby’s needs will be met.

Gourmet All-Inclusive: In addition to everything else that’s included, you’ll find a welcome bottle of sparkling wine or locally inspired beverage in your room when you arrive.

Lots of space on the beach: We loved that you didn’t have to pay extra for the day beds; the Balinese beds and beach huts are free.

There are designated areas for beach towels during the day, and there is no need to have a towel card; just grab and go. If you arrive after 4 p.m., you can request towels from housekeeping.

Customized service: If you are celebrating a special occasion, the team will work with you to bring your vision to life, whether it’s a wedding, anniversary, or kid’s birthday celebration.

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A post shared by Claire Zlobin @Drop Of Golden Sun (@dropofgoldensunca)

The Food! A little bit of spice and a whole lot of flavor.

Jamaican food is known worldwide, and what we loved about this property is they didn’t tone down the flavors. The food is fantastic. For traditional Jamaica cuisine, make sure to book ahead at least one night at Ackee.

We could have lived at Garfield’s Beach House and found ourselves heading there for lunch most days because it’s on the beach.

Beans Gourmet Coffee Shop

In the morning, you can grab your specialty coffee, juices, and treats; in the afternoon, they offer sandwiches and cakes.

The food displays at Mahogany Restaurant & Kitchen were above expectations for a buffet-style restaurant.

Tips for making the most out of your stay at Azul Beach Resort in Jamaica

lobby at Azul Beach Resort negril Jamaica — *Azul Beach Resort*

There is a resort casual dress code for dinner. For the most part, it’s fairly casual; collared shirts are recommended for gentlemen in the evening. The only thing to be aware of is sleeveless shirts and caps are not permitted during dinner.
If you have dietary restrictions, speak to your concierge ahead of time
Download the app and check out what activities or special events are happening at which restaurants.
Bring bug spray and afterbite for the noseeums.

Denys Zlobin

Things to do nearby

Seven Mile Beach: No need to go too far; you can walk along the beach steps from the hotel or spend quality time with the family on the world-famous Seven Mile Beach. Its white sand and crystal-clear waters are perfect for building sandcastles, playing beach games, and watching the sunset. Be sure to pile on the sunscreen.

Rick’s Café: Take the family to Rick’s Café for a memorable experience. Kids will love watching the cliff divers or even participating. This popular tourist spot has local food, live music, and gorgeous sunset views.

Rhodes Hall Plantation: This is a good educational and fun activity for the whole family. This historic fruit plantation is still in operation and offers many activities, including horseback riding, trails, glass bottom boat rides, and snorkeling.

Make sure to capture all the vacation fun—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.

Editor’s note: This trip was paid for by Azul Beach Resorts, but all the opinions belong to the writer.

Micro-cation in Mendocino (& the Railbikes Experience All Will Love)

by Kate LowethSeptember 25, 2023

The coastal views are unlike anything you’ve seen before

You don’t have to have a full week vacation to get some rest and recharge with your crew. Mendocino is the perfect option for a family micro-cation as you can drive there when work and school get out on Friday and enjoy the weekend on the coast. We have the full scoop on all the family-friendly Mendocino activities your kids will love including the Skunk Train railbikes and horseback riding on the beach. Book your Mendocino escape today!

Getting There

Just over three hours north of San Francisco, the drive to Mendocino County can definitely be part of the adventure. A less windy route takes you from 101 to exit at Railroad Avenue where you head to toward Bodega Bay on the coast. Cows, horses and goats will keep the kids entertained along the way. Stop at Bodega Bay Oyster Company for some local shellfish. If you time your arrival for Saturday or Sunday noon-4 p.m., they will be serving up barbecued oysters!

Bodega Bay is another great stop along your drive. Bribe the kids with taffy from Patrick's Salt Water Taffy (pink building on the coastal side of Highway 1 in Bodega Bay) and then grab some fried artichokes with a gorgeous view at The Birds Cafe.

Stock up for your Mendocino visit with a stop at Surf Market in Gualala. In addition to picnic staples like local cheese, bread and sandwich fixings, you can purchase some fresh fish or sausage from their extensive meat counter to cook up for your dinner.

If you are to driving through Anderson Valley don't miss The Apple Farm. Head off the main road for just a moment on the way into Hendy Woods State Park and you will find this adorable farm stand were they serve delicious apple cider and offer hard cider tastings on the weekend. Be sure to grab a bottle of the non-alcoholic variety to sip as your finish your drive through the redwoods. The Apple Farm also has overnight accommodations.

Adventures

Skunk Train – Fort Bragg
All aboard! Fort Bragg is where you can catch the Skunk Train for a ride through the redwoods along Pudding Creek. This train (so named because oldsters claimed that you could smell it coming before you'd see it) has both indoor cars and an outdoor car so that you can walk around and make the most of your ride. The Pudding Creek Express is a one-hour, 7-mile round trip tour that takes you over the first tracks laid down by the California Western Railroad. Snacks and beverages (including beer and wine) are available for purchase on the train.

Kids will love the experience of riding the railbikes and we totally recommend it for families. Two riders are seated on a double recumbent bike that rests right on the train tracks. With power-assisted pedaling, you and your partner make your way along the tracks for a 30-minute ride. When you get to your destination, you have some time to take a hike in the woods or grab a snack before you head back into town.

After your ride, check to see if the Mendocino Coast Model Railroad is open for visitors. Your Skunk Train ticket will get you in to check out over 1,300 feet of track that document the area's logging history. You may have trouble getting the little LEGO lovers past the kid-level train table out front (strategically placed to let them touch the LEGO trains and not the model trains inside).

Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens – Fort Bragg
Color is everywhere at the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. The succulent garden offers colorful cactus and spots to sit and enjoy your afternoon. March and April bring the fragrant rhododendrons that thrive in this coastal climate. Come in the summer and the vegetable garden will be full of life. Stop by to see if any strawberries are ripe and try one for yourself.

Russian Gulch State Park – Mendocino
There are tons of state park options to get your redwood fix in Mendocino County. Russian Gulch State Park offers a view of a collapsed sea cave called Devil’s Punchbowl just a short walk from the parking lot (high tide provides the most drama). If you have more time to spend in the park, hike the Fern Canyon Loop Trail to check out the waterfall.

Catch a Canoe & Bicycles Too - Mendocino
Nestled in a small cove on Big River Estuary, just before it flows into Mendocino Bay, is the adventure destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Established in 1982, Catch a Canoe and Bicycles Too offers ultra-stable redwood outriggers, kayaks, canoes, SUP and bicycle rentals for anyone who wants to explore beautiful Big River and beyond. Cruise down the water to see seal or otters on shore and plenty of birds catching fish. You can even bring Fido along on the Canine Cruiser, a specially-designed rig that allows dogs to see all the action.

Ross Ranch Horseback Riding - Manchester
Go for a horseback ride on the beach or through the redwoods with the skilled horses of Ross Ranch. Kids 6 and up can participate in this experience (we highly recommend the beach ride!) that lasts about 1.5 hours in the saddle. You'll take a slow pace down to the sand where the horses will walk along a gorgeous and nearly-deserted beach.

Ford House Museum – Mendocino
If you've got some history buffs in your crew, definitely plan to stop at the Ford House Museum in Mendocino. Here you can take a look at a huge diorama depicting the town as it stood in 1890 (count how many water towers you can find!). Check out the whale bones and learn how whales use baleen to filter feed in the waters off Mendocino.

B. Bryan Preserve – Point Arena
Did you know that Mendocino County is home to giraffes, antelopes and zebras? Around 100 of these majestic animals live at B. Bryan Preserve in Point Arena and you can bring the kids there for a visit. They are currently offering self-guided car tours and guided tours aboard a 1974 open-air Land Rover where you can learn how they breed critically-endangered and endangered African hoof stock. You can even spend the night in one of the on-site cottages.

Point Arena Lighthouse – Point Arena
Get a bit of a history lesson along with a gorgeous view of the coastline when you visit the Point Arena Lighthouse. This non-profit that is completely dependent on visitors is a great place to spend the afternoon. Begin your visit at the museum where you can learn the history of the lighthouse and see the original 1908 First Order Fresnel lens that was removed from the lighthouse in 2009. Learn how the lighthouse keepers were responsible for keeping the light going and cleaning every nook and cranny of the lens. Head to the whale watch room where you can borrow some binoculars to try and spot a gray whale offshore. After your museum visit, climb the 145 steps to the top of the tallest lighthouse tower on the West Coast where you will get a 360 degree view of the coastline along with an informative lesson from the tour guide there.

Pennyroyal Farm – Boonville
Take your trip home via Highway 128 so that you can pass through Boonville, home to Pennyroyal Farm. This farmstead creamery and winery offers daily tours of the barn where you can meet the goats and sheep that live there. Learn all of their names (yes, each one has a name!), how these animals are raised and how their milk is turned into cheese. Time your visit with lambing season in the spring for an extra-special treat. Your tour ends with a wine and cheese tasting for the parents and a grape juice and cheese tasting for the kids.

Beaches and Tide Pools

Bowling Ball Beach – Point Arena
Bowling Ball Beach is so named because of the massive bowling ball-shaped formations that line the beach when the tide is low. These are concretions—sedimentary rock formed when mineral cements bind grains of sand or stone into larger formations. You can access the trail to Bowling Ball Beach at mile marker 11.41 where the sign reads "Park facing south only." Here, take the northern path across the bluffs and follow the stairs down. At the bottom, you will likely have to scramble across downed logs to access the beach. Just take it slow and the adventure will be worth it!

Glass Beach – Fort Bragg
Treasure hunters flock to Glass Beach to search the sands for glass made smooth by years of riding the waves offshore. From 1906 to 1967, everything from cars to batteries to bottles, cans and appliances were unceremoniously pushed over the cliffs into the ocean. Mother Nature turned this trash into treasure of tiny sea glass. Get the kids to search for colors from clear to the more rare reds and blues. Just make sure that all treasures get left behind for the next visitor to enjoy. As with all California State Parks, the glass found at Glass Beach is protected and should not be taken home.

MacKerricher State Park – Fort Bragg
A prime spot for tide pools, MacKerricher State Park is just three miles from downtown Fort Bragg. Stop in at the visitors center when you arrive to feel pelts from animals that live in the area and see how your size compares to that of a whale. Then follow the map to the boardwalk and seal watching station. If you arrive when the tide is low, the area has a massive tide pool that will keep the kids busy for hours. Look for colorful sea stars and speedy sand crabs. Then venture on down the boardwalk to look for seals sunning themselves on the rocks.

Where to Eat

Mendocino has no shortage of great spots to grab a bite for the road or to enjoy a meal with a view. Frankie's offers the kid-favorite combo of pizza and ice cream. The thin crust cheese satisfies any kid appetite and the candy cap mushroom ice cream is a sweet treat for adventurous eaters. When the sun is out and the fog stays away, pick a spot on the deck at Flow Restaurant where the view is gorgeous and the fish tacos are a favorite. If you are looking for a family friendly fine dining experience MacCullum House Inn staff is happy to accommodate your kids pallet. Although the restaurant does not have a kids menu the chef is willing to adjust some items to be sure your kids find something they like and the banana split with house made ice cream is delightful.

In Fort Bragg's Noyo Harbor, the Harborview Restaurant at the Noyo Harbor Inn gets top billing for gorgeous views and delicious food to go along with it. Book a spot on the deck and just might spot a seal swimming by during your appetizer course. So fun! You can also head to the harbor itself for some of the freshest fish you've ever had. We loved the casual vibe on the outdoor deck at Noyo Fish Company (definitely get the fish tacos).

The quaint town of Point Arena has a tiny coffee shop, Little Green Bean, that offers tons of area recommendations while you wait for your beans to be ground and your pour-over drip coffee to brew. Head across the street to Franny's Cup and Saucer to satisfy your sweet tooth. Open Wednesday-Saturday, favorites at Franny's are the macarons, giant gingersnaps and not-to-be-missed Friday donuts. The Point Arena Wharf has a coffee shop so grab a cup of coffee and walk the pier, climb some rocks and look for sea creatures in the tide pools.

Where to Stay

Noyo Harbor Inn—Fort Bragg
You'll love the location of the Noyo Harbor Inn for your visit to Mendocino and all the conveniences it offers. Located just above Noyo Harbor, you'll be off the main drag of Fort Bragg with views of the harbor right out your window. It's right down the street from the Skunk Train and Glass Beach, and just a short drive to the Point Cabrillo Lighthouse. Families will enjoy the spacious rooms with balconies, giant ensuite tubs and coffee maker/mini fridge. The on-site restaurant offers top-notch service and some of the best food in town. Make sure you request table on the deck for the best views.

500 Casa Del Noyo
Fort Bragg, CA
Online: noyoharborinn.com

Inn at Schoolhouse Creek—Little River
If you want some extra space to spread out, a kitchen to cook up some farm-fresh eggs in the morning and a quaint cottage to call home, this is your spot. The Inn at Schoolhouse Creek offers cottages with different layouts to suit the needs of families of all sizes. On a recent visit we stayed in the Pomo Cottage that had a full kitchen, bedroom with king-sized bed, pull out couches that could sleep up to four people and a private hot tub for soaks under the sun. The property also has a spa (currently closed), BBQs for public use and a gorgeous property and creek for exploring. Dogs are also welcome!

7051 North Highway 1
LIttle River, CA
Online: schoolhousecreek.com

Mendocino Grove – Mendocino
Even though Mendocino Grove has only been open for a few years, they have glamping down. Safari tents on wooden platforms welcome you to this gorgeous area just five minutes from downtown Mendocino. There are two family tent options, queen bed with two twin beds (sleeps 4) and queen bed with four bunk beds that comfortably sleeps six. You'll be cozy for the night as they have bed warmers for all your campers. Each campsite has its own fire ring for campfires and you can purchase wood and s'mores kits on site.

Amenities that you'll love include spa-quality bathrooms and hot showers. Wake up to coffee, oatmeal, and hot chocolate at the community area in the center of the camp, with additional items for purchase. Mendocino Grove has bocce ball, hammocks, hiking trails and a volleyball court to keep the kiddies busy. Depending on when you stay you may be able to enjoy a free concert, participate in a yoga class, or support local farmers with their Farmer Dinner Series. For some on-the-water time, walk down the hill to Catch-a-Canoe to rent a kayak or outrigger canoe for the morning.

9601 CA-1
Mendocino, CA
Online: mendocinogrove.com

The Little River Inn – Little River
Located right in the middle of all the Mendocino County action, the Little River Inn knows what keeps families happy when they are away from home. Each room on this property has rocking chairs with a view of the coast and if you are lucky, some amazing sunsets. Rooms are equipped with a small fridge, Keurig coffee maker, TV and WiFi. Borrow a game or movie from the front desk to keep the kids entertained, or hike down the trail to the nearby beach. Golf, tennis and spa services are also available on site. If you choose to stay in one of the onsite cottages you may even be able to enjoy a coastal view from your private hot tub. Definitely pick up a box of their fudge and a bag of their cookies when you check in.

The hotel's restaurant offers both breakfast and dinner with a view of the crashing waves or the hotel's beautiful garden. Breakfast choices include Ole's Swedish Hotcakes (the short stack is still big enough to share), Little River Inn scones and loads of egg options. If you are there for Sunday brunch, make sure you ask for your complimentary glass of champagne. For dinner, kids can choose from options like the monster burger (which really is quite large) or fish and chips. Give yourself a few extra minutes of peaceful dining and ask for their coloring packet—a dozen-page booklet that gives the history of Mendocino County and area highlights, all for you to color!

7901 N. Highway One
Little River, CA
Online: littleriverinn.com

Point Arena Lighthouse Vacation Cottages – Point Arena
For a truly coastal experience, you can stay right at the Point Arena Lighthouse in one of their six vacation cottages. Three of them comfortably sleep six people with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. They come with a well-equipped kitchen, satellite TV, wood-burning fireplace and the most gorgeous coastal views. Wake up to hear the waves crashing against the rocks and spend your days exploring the 23 acres of land adjacent to the lighthouse.

4550 Lighthouse Road
Point Arena, CA
Online: pointarenalighthouse.com

MacCallum House Inn

MacCallum House is a boutique hotel and restaurant in the heart of the town of Mendocino. This Victorian home is surrounded by beautiful gardens and has 19 rooms in the main house. In addition to the main house the inn offers a variety of accommodations including a stay in the historic barn, cottages, suites and more. Many of the spaces include fireplaces, hot tubs, and ocean views. With so many options you are sure to find the perfect room accommodations for your family. The MacCallum House Restaurant is part of California's original farm-to-table and chef-driven dining movement and provides a delicious taste of local, fresh and seasonal cuisine.

45020 Albion Street
Mendocino, CA
Online: MacCallum House

Places to Have Fun: 0-3 months

Go on a Walk

Take a Baby and Me Yoga Class

Meet Up with Family

Join a Parent Workout Class

Places to Have Fun: 3-6 Months

Visit Your Local Zoo or Aquarium

Try Storytime

Go for a Hike or a Run

Places to Have Fun: 6-9 Months

Explore the Beach

Swing at the Park

Sign Up for a Music Class

Visit a Local Children’s Museum

Places to Have Fun: 9-12 Months

Try a Swim Class

Take a Baby Gym Class

Get a New Set of Wheels

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