These superfoods can make life a whole lot smoother for kids who just can’t go

Childhood constipation may not get the same air time as sleep regressions or toddler tantrums, but if you’re living with an uncomfortable munchkin whose bowels just won’t move, it’s probably all you can think about. Luckily, there are ingredients in our kitchens that have poop-pushing power and can easily be incorporated into our littles’ diets. As a dietitian, I turn to these delicious ingredients—fiber-rich fruits, seeds, and beans—to offer gentle yet effective constipation relief for kids struggling to use the bathroom.

Before we dive in, remember that boosting your kids’ fiber should be done slowly to avoid overloading their digestive system and causing painful blowouts or embarrassing accidents. Another tip: when you double down on fiber be sure to up their water game, too. This not only prevents dehydration, another cause of constipation, but it helps avoid any additional discomfort.

With that in mind, here are the six problem-solving foods that’ll help get things moving.

1. Prunes

If your kiddo is struggling with their bathroom routine, consider giving prunes a try. Famous for their natural laxative effect, prunes contain sorbitol, which helps pull water into the gut to keep things flowing. Sprinkle chopped prunes on yogurt or oatmeal, blend them into smoothies, or whip up a quick-cooking prune compote or jam to spread on toast. Don’t forget that pouches of prune purée can be an easy way to squeeze in a little fiber boost during travel season or when you’re on the go!

2. Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are your kids’ trusted digestive ally, boasting 8 grams of fiber in just 2 tbsp. Like prunes, these tiny seeds work their magic by hydrating the digestive tract, making number-twos a breeze. Chia seeds can easily be incorporated into your kids’ diet by baking them into muffins or pancakes, mixing them with breadcrumbs to make a coating for schnitzel, whipping up a delicious chocolate chia pudding, or sprinkling them on warm or cold cereals (mix them with colorful sprinkles to make them more exciting if you have to!).

3. Beans

Yes, beans may make you toot, but that’s exactly because they’re a fiber powerhouse, loaded with vitamins, minerals, and plant-based protein to offer some serious constipation relief for kids. From chickpeas to black, cannellini, and kidney beans, the bean family is super versatile. Bake black beans into brownies, blend chickpeas into hummus, or stuff kidney beans into tacos and burritos. Here’s another helpful tip: Before serving canned beans, give them a thorough rinse under water. This not only removes excess salt but it also washes away some of the gel-like starches that may cause gas.

Related: 5 Ways to Pack More Energy Into Your Kid’s Lunch

4. Ground Flaxseed

This little seed is a gentle champion, helping your tot tackle constipation thanks to its soluble fiber, which softens poo and makes it easier to pass. Opt for ground flaxseed over whole flaxseed as it’s easier for little tummies to digest and works even better when they’re backed up. You can get creative and use ground flaxseed as a substitute for breadcrumbs in meatballs or meatloaf, bake it into cookies, or use it as an egg replacement in baked goods.

5. Pears

Pears are a tasty, sweet choice for kids dealing with bathroom struggles, thanks to their fiber and sorbitol content. You can easily incorporate them into your kid’s meals by packing pear slices in their lunchbox, adding chopped pears to yogurt (and a dash of cinnamon for extra yum!), or baking them with coconut oil and blending up a delicious pear sauce.

6. Apples

If your kiddo is having a tough time in the bathroom, you’re in luck because apples offer a double dose of fiber. There’s insoluble fiber from the skin and soluble fiber from the flesh, making them an excellent choice when longing for trips to the loo. And let’s be real, have you ever met a kid who doesn’t adore apples? You can do so much with them: bake them into tasty oatmeal crisps, shred them into apple fritters, or serve apple slices with nut butter for dipping.

We all wanted a teacher just like Ms. Frizzle

They just don’t make ’em like they used to. Thankfully, the streaming platforms stream them like they do. From Tubi to Paramount+, to Netflix, the digital shelves are alive and well with the ’90s kids’ shows that raised you and that you can now share with your own little ones.

If you’re dreaming of Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, Clarissa Explains It All, Good Burger, and more shows and movies you used to watch back in the day, many of them are available to stream right now in your living room. Looking for a little more watch-list inspo? Keep scrolling for a list of favorites you will want to enjoy with your own kids.

’90s Kids’ Shows to Watch with the Family

1. Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers

Power Rangers is a 90s kids show
Netflix

Choosing a favorite Power Ranger was like picking a partner for Four Square: He or she would be your loyal companion for an unforgettable battle, so you had to pick wisely. Inspired by Japan’s Super Sentai franchise, the series about a group of teenage martial arts pros tasked with saving Earth from various villains was a smash when it debuted in 1993. And even though the series has evolved over the decades, nothing packs a punch of nostalgia like the high-energy original.

Recommended age: 7 & up.

Available on Netflix.

2. Doug

Doug is a '90s kids show
Disney

In 1991, Nickelodeon debuted a 90-minute block of game-changing animation. Called Nicktoons, the lineup kicked off Sunday mornings and included The Ren & Stimpy Show, Rugrats, and this quirksome classic about a kid named Doug Funnie. The series, based on its creator’s real life and journal doodles, jumps between grade-school mishaps, growing pains, and heroic daydreams about a persona named Quailman. Trust us: It won’t be long before your little one sports their undies over their shorts. IYKYK!

Recommended age: 7 & up.

Available on Disney+ and Amazon.

3. Rugrats

Nickelodeon

Another original Nicktoon, Rugrats was the brainchild of then husband-and-wife animation duo Arlene Klasky and Gabor Csupo. A peek into the secret world of wobbly toddlers, their series features a klatch of adorable playpen dwellers who may not have teeth or potty skills down just yet but are all stocked up with senses of adventure and unbridled curiosity. Led by protag baby Tommy Pickles, Rugrats offers a hilarious bridge between two realms: that of innocent perception and that of the real world.

Recommended age: 5 & up.

Available on Hulu and Amazon.

4. Bill Nye the Science Guy

Bill Nye the Science Guy is a 90s kids show
Disney

A few years after Mr. Wizard took his bow in 1989, Bill Nye picked up the Bunsen burner and ran with it. Or rather, walked briskly, because running with fire is dangerous. Always cooking up the coolest experiments in a light blue lab coat and forever-present bow tie, Bill Nye uses boundless enthusiasm as a way to ignite curious minds and turn science into a fun escapade. Each episode is an electrifying experiment in the love of learning and is a fantastic way to introduce kids to science.

Recommended age: 7 & up.

Available on Amazon.

5. Hey Arnold!

Hey, Arnold
Nickelodeon

The star of this jazzy motley toon is a kid named Arnold. A nine-year-old who lives with his grandparents in a boarding house, he tackles everyday fourth-grader obstacles. You know, stuff like bullies, kiddie pools, and the power of friendship. Back then, Hey Arnold! was just our way of decompressing after school. Today, it’s a rad time machine that whisks us back to a world where the jazz is too good and “football-headed” kiddos are the real heroes.

Recommended age: 7 & up.

Available on Hulu and Amazon.

6. The Magic School Bus

The Magic School Bus is a 90s kids show
Netflix

If ever there were a way to get kids to crack a textbook outside the walls of a school, it’s this cosmic roller coaster of a '90s kids' show, featuring a shapeshifting yellow school bus and a zany teacher sporting some truly wonky fits. The series goes round and round with Ms. Frizzle and her students as they embark on adventures into the depths of the digestive system one day, and animal habitats in the wild the next, fusing a kid’s core curriculum with a healthy dose of magic and fierce staying power.

Recommended age: 5 & up.

Available on Netflix.

7. Dinosaurs

Dinosaurs
ABC

Maestro of the Muppets, Jim Henson, helped pioneer puppetry on prime time with this prehistoric fantasy series. A peek into the household of the Sinclairs, a family of full-body animatronic marvels, Dinosaurs is brilliant in that it’s entertainment for little ones and their parents. And thanks to its irreverent combination of sly satire and silly slapstick, it’s also a funny watch no matter which decade you view it in—even the Mesozoic era.

Recommended age: 10 & up.

Available on Disney+ and Amazon.

8. Clarissa Explains It All

Clarissa Explains It All is a 90s kids show
Nickelodeon

Nineties fashion icon Clarissa Darling knew a thing or two about, well, everything—hence the title of this coming-of-age comedy that had every preteen harmonizing with Rachel Sweet’s single-syllable theme song. Navigating the labyrinth of teen life and decoding every motivation along the way, Clarissa (played by the fantastic Melissa Joan Hart) breaks the fourth wall to fill her audience in on dilemmas that include how to master dating, friendships, and bratty little brothers.

Recommended age: 8 & up.

Available on Amazon and Paramount+

9. The Baby-Sitters Club

There’s an award-winning book series, a movie that launched the acting careers of Rachael Leigh Cook (She’s All That) and Larisa Oleynik (10 Things I Hate About You), and even a reboot that has critics bowing down, but no one can forget about the single-season series that solidified its fan base for life. With iconic episodes, like “Dawn and the Dream Boy,” “Stacey Takes a Stand,” and “Claudia and the Missing Jewels,” the world of the Baby-Sitters Club unfolds with empowerment that transcends time.

Recommended age: 7 & up.


Season 1 is available on Amazon

10. Are You Afraid of the Dark?

Are You Afraid of the Dark is a 90s kids show
Nickelodeon

Remember SNICK? Nickelodeon's answer for preteens who preferred spending Saturday night on the couch watching TV, the two-hour lineup saw shows like All That and The Adventures of Pete and Pete get some play. But our favorite has to be Are You Afraid of the Dark? Eerie and atmospheric, the series is a collection of ghost stories conjured up by teenage storytellers who call themselves the Midnight Society. And don't be surprised if you see some familiar faces when you revisit the show. Read: Ryan Gosling!

Recommended age: 10 & up.

Available on Paramount+ and Amazon. 

11. Boy Meets World

Boy Meets World is a 90s TV show
Disney

Though the Boy Meets World universe is filled with guest-star cameos from the likes of Keri Russell, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Adam Scott, and Rue McClanahan, the core cast remained the same for seven seasons. Cory, Topanga, Shawn, Eric, and, later, Morgan guided fans through the '90s with humor, heart, and so much Feeny. Morphing from a lighthearted sitcom to a self-aware portrait of adolescence, this gem is totally worth revisiting with a younger generation.

Recommended age: 10 & up.

Available on Disney+, Apple TV, and Amazon.

12. All That

All That is a 90s kids show
Nickelodeon

Another leg of the SNICK lineup, this weekend hit is basically Saturday Night Live for younger audiences. Sketch comedy for kids, by kids, it gave now-household names like Nick Cannon, Amanda Bynes, and Kenan Thompson, a shot to raise the roof with skits that, though wildly different, all shared one goal: getting all that laughter. Fun fact: In a stroke of fate, Thompson would go on to star on the big-kids' SNL for 20+ years.

Recommended age:

Available on Paramount+ and Netflix. 

13. Kenan & Kel

Kenan & Kel is a '90s TV show for kids
Nickelodeon

Fans of All That know where we're going with this: Kenan Thompson and Kel Mitchell first appeared together on SNICK's sketch comedy show before landing a sketch comedy show of their own. Dubbed Kenan & Kel, the show is set in Chicago and follows the misadventures of two high schoolers who reeeaaally love to ask, "Who loves orange soda?" It's peak humor that eventually leads to the two best friends starring in a whopper of a movie together.

Recommended age: 8 & up.

Available at Amazon and Netflix.

14. Sister, Sister

Sister, Sister is a 90s kids show
ABC

Twin sisters Tia and Tamera are separated at birth but reunite in their teens, then move in together to create one big, happy family with dad Ray and mom Lisa. So goes the fictional small-screen story of real-life twins Tia and Tamera Mowry. The result? One of the most genuine displays of onscreen chemistry, female empowerment, and sibling dynamics to ever grace the screen. Fun fact: Tia and Tamera performed the catchy "Sistaaa! Sistaaa!" theme song you still sing today.

Recommended age: 9 & up.

Available on Hulu, Netflix, Paramount+, and Amazon.

15. Saved by the Bell

We'll be the first to admit it: Saved by the Bell hasn't aged well. Bloated machismo, fat-shaming, gender stereotypes, and a lack of diversity aren't okay now, and they weren't okay then. But that doesn't mean you won't also find yourself waxing nostalgic over the Bayside crew's antics, from Zack and Kelly's puppy love to Slater and Lisa's top-notch comedic timing to Screech and Mr. Belding's odd coupling. As for the 2020 reboot? It's so good, we can't believe it was canceled.

Recommended age: 9 & up.

Available on Apple TV, Amazon

 

 

Katy Perry and Jimmy Kimmel set out to achieve the unachievable: create a children’s song that will knock the most-watched music video of all time, “Baby Shark,” off its throne. On Monday, the duo collaborated to “doot doot” something about the catchy children’s song for the sake of all our sanity.

Pinkfong’s “Baby Shark” has racked up over 10 billion YouTube views since launching and has been the creative driver behind scores of new children’s product lines. Perry and Kimmel’s creation, dubbed “Toot Toot Poop!” has quite a challenge before it, but even if they don’t overcome the “Baby Shark” behemoth, parents everywhere appreciate their effort.

Kimmel lays the premise for his creative collaboration at the beginning of his show. “Those of you who are parents know the song “Baby Shark.” It is the most watched—and hated—YouTube video of all time.” Tired of being bullied and badgered by toddlers intent on singing the song over, and over, and over again, Kimmel decided to pull Perry in to create the next viral children’s songsation.

“Let’s think about key stuff that two year olds would really find interesting,” started Perry during the duo’s brainstorming studio sesh. Repetition and kid hot-topics, like dinos, farts, garbage trucks and food all got hashed-out on a white board. “Yum yum is a good one, right?” Kimmel said. “It causes all the hair on my body to stand up when I say the word ‘Yum Yum,’ but I think that’s good because the parents have to hate the song,” he added. “Nom nom” got thrown in the mix as Perry discovered that fart sounds really influenced the beat in a flatulent—and overwhelmingly positive—way. And just like that, a classic was born.

Instrumentally, the duo hit a roadblock when Perry mentioned she couldn’t play the piano—the only accompaniment in the studio—but they kept going and found the perfect “poop” key to play. Deciding early on to “Keep It Simple Stupid,” Kimmel suggested they cut the “simple” and just “Keep It Stupid.” As a result, they created a song that moves you (or, at least, describes the movement of your digestive system).

YouTube

“Clap your hands and stomp your feet/ Give me something good to eat,” Perry sings in the hyper-colored video featuring the unforgettable chorus, “Yum yum, nom nom, toot toot, poop!” Kimmel takes it from there, singing about what happens after the food hits your tongue. “First the food goes in your mouth/ Then it starts to travel south,” he sings, and the music video rises to the creative challenge with the pair floating down a cartoon esophagus into a stomach.

Chicken fingers, cheesy fries, pumpkin pancakes and chocolate pies fill the song, and if that wasn’t enough to keep it in your head, the chorus circles back to “Yum yum, nom nom, toot toot, poop!”—guaranteeing you will never. ever. get it out of your head.

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We’ve all heard the adage, “breakfast is the most important meal of the day.” In truth, besides being associated with better memory, eating a healthy breakfast has also been linked to better test scores, increased attention span and decreased irritability in kids. That’s why we’ve synced up with a registered dietician to get the skinny on the importance of breakfast and easy ways to make it happen every morning. The major bonus is that you can score all these easy breakfast ideas at Trader Joe’s! Keep reading to see them all.

Single Serve Protein Muffins

Trader Joe's

You've heard of mug cakes, now there's a new baked good in town. Trader Joe's new gluten-free Dark Chocolate and Maple Protein Muffins are made with cassava and other tasty ingredients like coconut flour, almond meal, chocolate chips, cocoa powder and more. Each one comes in their own cooking cup that just requires water or milk, then microwave for 60 seconds before indulging 12 grams of protein!

Find in the breakfast aisle for $1.99 each.

Steel Cut Oats

Trader Joe's

Marissa Kent, RDN, shares that "breakfast is the meal that not only helps ensure kids eat enough to support their growth, but it also replenishes their blood sugar level, which is needed to perform well in school. Breakfast foods that contain carbohydrates will replenish a child’s glucose levels."

Oatmeal or steel-cut oats are a great option. High in insoluble fiber, steel-cut oats help maintain a healthy and regular digestive system. They are naturally free of gluten, which makes them a good option for most diets, and are easily customizable by adding fruit, nuts, seeds or nut butter. Dieticians love steel-cut oats because of their low glycemic index, fiber, high iron content and their status as a complex carbohydrate, which helps to maintain a steady flow of energy throughout the day—something your kiddo needs to get through school.

Trader Joe's has you covered in the steel oat department: you can choose between the frozen or the boxed version (which requires a little more cooking).

Açaí Bowls

Trader Joe's

When it comes to super health food, Açaí is here to stay. The vibrant fruit is loaded with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which mean tons of health benefits for your littles. Enjoy a faster recovery time from illness, better cognitive functioning and a more controlled appetite when you serve an Açaí Bowl for breakfast.

You can snag Trader Joe's frozen Açaí, which is priced a little under $5 and is easily combined with greens and fruit to make a nutritious breakfast that almost tastes like ice cream.

Buttermilk Protein Pancakes

Trader Joe's

Skip sneaking protein powder into your pancakes, and just buy Trader Joe's Buttermilk Protein Pancake mix! Made with whole wheat flour, whole grain oat flour, whey protein concentrate and buttermilk powder, each serving of two flapjacks equal 10 grams of protein. Why should you pack in the protein? In addition to keeping kids full longer, protein helps to build muscle in growing littles, boosts metabolism and helps bodies repair themselves after an injury.

Egg Fritata

Trader Joe's

Do your kids love eggs? You'll want to pick up a box of Trader Joe's Egg Fritata's on your next grocery run. Each mini egg round is made with egg whites, whole eggs, and whey protein concentrate, which equates to 12 grams of protein and 15% of your daily calcium.

Also, consuming eggs is linked to better eye health, an increase in good cholesterol, better bone health as a result of calcium, and kids will get a good serving of tons of vitamins from A to Selenium.

Multigrain Waffles

Trader Joe's

Kent states that parents should "aim for a balanced plate with a variety of nutrient-rich foods each morning to fuel the child’s body and brain." That's why we love the easy to make multi-grain frozen waffles from Trader Joe's. After toasting one up, add fruit and nut butter to round out this tasty breakfast that meets all your kids' nutritional needs right out of the gate.

Smoothie with Milk

Trader Joe's

"Including a source of dairy, such as milk, at breakfast is important as it helps make sure children are getting enough calcium. Milk has been shown to be the top source of calcium, vitamin D, phosphorus, and potassium for kids" says Kent.

Ensuring your kids have dairy or a dairy alternative source can go a long way. A simple way to sneak it in is to blend up a smoothie that contains the calcium-rich food with leafy greens and fruit. You can find plenty of dairy and non-dairy options at Trader Joe's, like nut or oat milk, in addition to tons of frozen fruit options that will make your smoothie a cinch.

Yogurt with Fruit

Having yogurt in the morning means your kids are getting a healthy serving of protein, calcium and live cultures: All of these things work together to keep kids full longer (and have a healthier gut). On your next Trader Joe's run, check out the huge selection of dairy and dairy-alternative yogurt products like greek, creamy cashew and cultured coconut milk options. Toss in fresh fruit and whole-grain cereal to make a fun parfait, and your kiddos will love eating healthy before you know it.

Chicken or Turkey Sausage

Do your kids love a heartier breakfast? Substituting with one of the many Trader Joe's sausage options is the way to go. Choose from tasty flavors like Sweet or Spicy Italian, or Apple Chicken when pairing with eggs or whole-grain toast. Turkey and chicken sausages are a leaner option when it comes to meat than their pork counterpart, and are a great source of protein.

Quiche

KensingtonBearAnnabel via Instagram

"Breakfast is a prime opportunity to provide children with a source of choline by serving eggs. Choline is important for the creation of memory cells," says Kent. Not only can you get a healthy serving of eggs when you serve up Trader Joe's Mixed Mushroom & Spinach quiche, but you also sneak in lots of greens, too. Check out TJ's freezer aisle for several other flavors if your kids aren't partial to this version.

Organic Coconut Almond Chia Cereal

Trader Joe's

If your kiddo isn't super hungry in the morning, you probably already buy a decent amount of cereal to get them going. Instead of the sugar-dense options, check out Trader Joe's Organic Coconut Almond Chia cereal, and dispel any negative comments about serving up a bowl of cereal in the AM. Kent states that "Most ready-to-eat or cooked breakfast cereals are fortified with vitamins and minerals, such as B vitamins and iron. Some may also be protein and fiber-rich. Kids can get a significant amount of nutrients from these cereals."

––Karly Wood

 

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Smoothie season is here! With so many fruits and veggies in season, it’s the perfect time to dust off your blender. Below, we’ve rounded up our favorite healthy smoothie recipes that kids and adults alike will love. While you’re at it, get your little sous chefs involved in measuring out the fruit and learning how to make a smoothie. Grab some spinach, freeze a few bananas and read on to get started.

Click here to save this list on your healthy recipes Pinterest board.

Strawberry Lemonade Smoothie

Lemons Zest

Brighten up your morning with this sweet-tart smoothie from Lemons + Zest. A little lemon zest gives it an extra pop of flavor, while a touch of flaxseed sneaks in some fiber. To get the recipe, click here.

Mango-Berry Swirled Smoothie

Perry’s Plate

This pretty smoothie from Perry’s Plate tastes like summer in a glass. It’s dairy-free and made with fresh mangos, frozen berries and a few other ingredients. Click here to get the recipe.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Split Smoothie

Food Network

Your kiddos will love this "chocolate milkshake," which comes together with the help of Greek yogurt, bananas, peanut butter and hot chocolate mix. It's the perfect treat on a hot summer day. Hint: Serve icy cold!

Ingredients
2 tbsp peanut butter
1/2 frozen banana
1/2 cup non-fat Greek yogurt
1/2 cup 1% low-fat Darigold chocolate milk
3 tbsp hot chocolate powder

Method:

1. Throw all the ingredients in a blender, and blitz until smooth!

Mango Smoothie

Mummyology

Mango is the perfect summer fruit—so why not mix it up into a slurpable concoction? With just a little orange juice and ice, you'll have a tasty treat in no time. Hop over to Mummyology for the recipe, plus lots of other kid-approved smoothie ideas.

Cake Batter Smoothie

Kendra's Treat

There's no doubt your kids will go crazy for this cake batter smoothie from Kendra's Treats. With cake mix and rainbow sprinkles, not to mention a surprisingly light list of ingredients (no ice cream here), what's not to like?

Peach Flax Smoothie

Super Healthy Kids

Flaxseed is super popular among health food nuts, and for good reason—it's got omega-3 fatty acids, which support brain development in kiddos and help maintain a healthy digestive system. This peach smoothie from Super Healthy Kids is the perfect way to introduce flax into your little one's diet without them even noticing.

Summer Delight Smoothie

Tinned Tomatoes

Make the most of that fresh farmer's market produce with this summery recipe using nectarines and raspberries from Tinned Tomatoes.

Honeydew Melon Smoothie

Artsy Momma

If your kiddo loves honeydew melon, this smoothie from Artsy Momma is bound to be a home run. Add a little whipped cream and sprinkles on top, and your kids will think they're having dessert for breakfast!

Monsters Green Smoothie

Mom Endeavors

We couldn't resist throwing a truly green smoothie into the list—after all, the foodie world is crazy for spinach-laden smoothies right now. Luckily, there's a way to make green smoothies appealing to the younger set. Mom Endeavors' clever recipe makes use of lots of fruit, a bit of spinach, and a few fun decorations to make a kid-approved treat perfect for a monster-themed party.

Beet Strawberry Lemon Smoothie

Raw on $10 a Day

Beets, strawberries and lemon juice come together to make the prettiest (and tastiest!) deep red smoothie. Check out the recipe at Raw on $10 a Day.

—Susie Foresman

Featured photo: ElementDigital5 via Unsplash

 

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You (almost) never mind when they decide to take apart old electronics. So adding another ingredient to their learning lab just makes sense, which is why we’ve rounded up six new STEAM books (that’s science, technology, engineering, arts and math to you newbies) that push inquiring minds to ask, “Why?.” From books with fearless new characters to hands-on tinkering tutorials and simple science projects, read on for our favorite new releases. Bonus: reading these with your kids could help cut back on the number of times you find yourself re-assembling your universal remote!

The Curious Kid’s Science Book: 100+ Creative Hands-On Activities

By Asia Citro, MEd

Ages 4-8

Available Sept. 2015

From 150+ Screen Free Activities for Kids and Fun at Home with Kids author and educator Asia Citro, comes a new book of science fun, and it’s just as colorful and engaging as it’s predecessor. The breakdown of each experiment—which range from cooking to environmental science, engineering and a whole chapter dedicated to baking soda and vinegar—make them easy to understand. Asia has a gift for making hands-on creativity seem like second nature and even though the book is aimed for scientists ages 4-8, there are also advanced level questions and projects, making this book perfect for families with kiddos of all sizes. Each one has a conclusion from a very enthusiastic test subject, usually Asia’s daughter or her friends, the index makes for easy searching and there’s a great supply checklist at the back of the book.

Buy it now: amazon.com/thecuriouskidssciencebook

 

Hello Ruby: Adventures in Coding

By Linda Liukas

Ages 4-7

Available Oct. 2015

Ruby is a small girl with a big imagination. Written by a central figure in the programming world, this classic adventure story takes young kids through 10 chapters of curiosity, playfulness and rules— a celebration of computing. Join a spunky girl whose favorite expression is “Why?” as she meets up with friends Django, Penguin and the Snow Leopard on a journey to retrieve her lost collection of special gems.  The youngest readers will love to hear about Ruby’s trials and triumphs, while older listeners will gain familiarity with basic coding concepts: sequences, variables, loops, conditionals and operators. Kids can also go online to download interactive games from Ruby’s world, and an app in in the works.

Buy it now: helloruby.com/shop

Human Body Theater

By Maris Wicks

Available Oct. 2015

Get ready for a theatrical review of the entire human body—  graphic novel style. The grinning skeletal figure takes kids on an anatomical journey, and the colorful graphics make this an almost comical take on the human body’s ooey-gooey insides. Kids will laugh to see dancing oxygen bubbles make their way through a heart valve and we can hear the giggles that’ll come from the chapter about the digestive system. Kids will learn why they get sick, why they need to eat good foods, and why they see, taste, touch and smell. At the end, when they finally get to meet the little girl who has been putting on her “body layers” chapter by chapter, they’ll want to flip back to the beginning and start all over again.

Buy it now: amazon.com/Human-Body-Theater

Ruff Ruffman’s 44 FAVORITE Science Activities

By Candlewick Press

Ages 8-12

Available Mar. 2015

For the older scientists in the group, the PBS star of FETCH! lends himself to a book filled with projects great for either school or home. Ruff simplifies the scientific method for kids, provides a sweet lab notebook, gives the heads up on safety procedures and even gives tips for creating award-winning science fair projects. Look for the icons indicating levels of difficulty, or when/if parents need to get involved. From there on out, it’s 44 step-by-step brain busting experiments waiting to be tested.

Buy it now: candlewick.com/ruffruffman

Tree of Wonder

By Kate Messner

Aged 4-10

Available Aug. 2015

Imagine trying to count all the amazing and eco-tastic diversity found in a rain forest. It’ll take more than 10 fingers to get the job done! New number counters and practiced pros alike will enjoy the lush illustrations in this delightful account of one almendro tree that dozens of creatures call home, including toucans, bats and monkeys. Each number (and animal) doubles, until reaching over 1,000 leafcutter ants.  Not only is it a visual treat, but it’s a fun way to combine a little math and ecology, all in one read.

Buy it now: chroniclebooks.com/tree-of-wonder

Peg + Cat: The Race Car Problem

By Jennifer Oxley and Billy Aronson

Ages 3-7

Available Sept. 2015

A fun first in a series about STEM-loving Peg and her trusty sidekick Cat. They’ve built an amaaaaazing car out of things they found lying around in the junkyard, and now, Peg will have to guess, brainstorm, play games, sing songs and make mistakes during her efforts to race in the Tallapegga Twenty (a really big deal!). It’s a good thing Peg knows the best shape to use for making wheels and how to count laps to keep track of who is ahead! Touted by Common Sense Media as a TV role model, Peg and Cat’s creative approach to problem-solving aims to help children find new and positive ways to deal with everyday situations in their lives.

Buy it now: candlewickpress.com/pegandcat

Does your kid like to explore STEAM stuff? Share with us in a Comment below.

— Gabby Cullen

Even though they’re not supposed to, we all know kids love to make fun of the gross things the body does. That’s why the Pacific Science Center has embraced their impolite nature and brought the new Grossology exhibit to town. From an animatronic nose that shows what causes sniffers to flow, to a towering Burp Man who sips from a three-foot soda can until he pops, you’ll enjoy the rip-roaring laughter as your mini-jokesters discover the science behind the stinky, slimy, and offensive waste products of the human body. It’s learning at its grossest.

photo: Kristina Moy

Why so Gross?
Most kids turn up their noses when it comes to learning about the systems of body, but tell them they are going to explore where pee and poop come from and they’re all ears. Why? Because kids love gross things. This realization is what led best-selling author, Sylvia Branzei to write the Grossology book series that teaches kids science through yucky things. The popularity of her works have led to a Canadian animated television series, plus two all-amazing museum exhibitions currently on world tour. Be sure to check out the animatronic version of Her Grossness when entering the exhibit, and before leaving head over to the Let’s Play Grossology game where she tests visitors on all the disgusting facts they have learned.

photo: Rachael Brandon

What’s Inside
You might be wondering if your junior biologist is going to contract something vile on this outrageous expedition (we wondered that too), but despite every slimy, mushy, oozy, disgusting thing not discussed in polite society being put up for display, the actual gross stuff has been left for everyone’s imagination. Even the most squeamish kiddos will want to crawl and slide their way through the thirty-foot long replica of the digestive system, and there’s no shame in eagerly exploring the Vomit Center to discover why, and what goes on when we get sick. Since it’s all in the name of learning you will also find simple, cartoon-like graphics accompanying interesting Health Factoids displayed throughout the exhibit. These easy-to-read signs explain everything from why not to stick your finger in your nose, to why amusement park rides make us woozy. The important stuff, right?

photo: Kristina Moy

What Snot to Miss
It’s true, most kids will find everything about the Grossology exhibit to be pretty awesome, but there are some definite must-see features they will be begging to explore. Who wouldn’t want to take a trip through the enormous Tour Du Nose exhibit where you can delve into all of the major nasal features, then listen as the schnoz awakens and lets out a giant sneeze. Even grandma won’t be able to contain her giggle when hanging out at the Toot Toot station, where visitors explore the physics and vibrations that elicit those rude sounds. If you’ve got a climber on your hands, they’ll be up for scaling the Skin Climbing Wall using pimples, moles, wounds, warts, hairs and blemishes as foot holes and hands grips.

Your board game enthusiasts will rave over the table-sized replica of the famous Operation Game, where kids can learn about body parts by trying to remove them without touching the table sides. Watch as your sharp-shooter takes aim at the Up Your Nose game, where they launch pollen balls into a giant snout, and when they hit their target the green stuff comes oozing out. Another surprising adventures is the cool, virtual reality experience called Urine The Game that takes visitors on an exploration of how the kidneys remove waste from the blood. They will also love winning big with the Gas Attack pinball game, where players score off of bumpers displaying foods that cause flatulence. There’s so much excitement to be had, but the real take-away at the end of the day is that learning about the body can be fun… if you’re willing to go there.

photo: Rachael Brandon

The Details
Grossology is open at the Pacific Science Center and runs through Jan. 3, 2016. To find out more before you go, watch this video segment from Evening Magazine. (Psst! It features our Seattle editor’s little Grossologists). Admission to the exhibit is included with general admission prices, and is free for members.

photo: Rachael Brandon

Pacific Science Center
200 Second Ave. N.
Seattle, Wa 98109
206-443-2001
Online: pacificsciencecenter.org/exhibits/grossology

Dates: Now through Jan. 3, 2016
Hours: Daily, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (through Sept. 7, 2015)
Cost: $19.75/Adults; $14.75/Youth (6-15); $11.75/Kids (3-5); Free for members

Have you and your crew checked out this new Grossology exhibit? Tell us what you thought about it in the Comments below.

— Rachael Brandon

Finding new lunch snacks to surprise your kiddos with is always a challenge, but these homemade snacks will totally make their days while also supporting local businesses. And who knows—you might just end up buying a few for your own brown bag, too!

Sunfire Girls
Don’t let the word “chips” scare you—the Sunfire Girls sell dehydrated, not baked or fried, kale chips, which are loaded with Vitamins B and C to help maintain nutritional value. Bonus: the dressings they toss the chips in come in flavors like Ancho Chile and Coconut Lime and are all vegan and raw. Handmade in Chevy Chase.

Online: sunfiregirls.com

Number 1 Sons
Instead of using vinegar as their pickling agent, Number 1 Sons puts their cucumbers into a barrel with salt, water and spices. Not only are the pickles tasty, they are a natural probiotic, which helps your kid’s digestive system by replenishing the natural flora inside the belly. This year, their cucumbers came from Spring Valley and Bigg Riggs in West Virginia. In addition to their many pickle varieties, they have other types of fermented foods such as kimchi and kraut. You can find their stand at farmers markets in D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia. Handmade in Lyon Park. 

Online: number1sons.com

Michele’s Granola
Your kids better watch out—once you taste this granola, you might want it all for yourself. Michele’s Granola is handmade from 100% organic whole grains, and comes in five regular flavors as well as seasonal varietals (did someone say Pumpkin Spice?). You can buy bags of the granola online, or from farmers markets or stores near you.Handmade in Timonium, Md.

Online: michelesgranola.com

Teeny Pies
If you’re looking for a sweet treat to surprise your kids with but don’t want to actually spend hours baking your own, Teeny Pies is a great alternative. This little company specializes in artisan sweet and savory pies, which come in 4” ‘teeny pies, as well as 9” regular pies for the sweet varieties. They use locally sourced produce, and a family recipe for the whole wheat crust. These pies can be ordered online and picked up at several farmers markets, as well as delivered (for 5 or more pies). Handmade in NoMa. 

Online: teenypies.com

2 Armadillos
Not only does 2 Armadillos, a crispy chickpea maker, have the best name ever, but their snacks are vegan, all natural, and sugar and gluten free. They do all the work for you, putting their four flavors—Rosemary, Spicy Cayenne, Tomato Basil, and Cinnamon Toast (yum!)—into 32 lunch-ready 1 oz. snack packs. Use their online locator to find a store near you, or order online for $5 shipping. Handmade in NoMa.

Online: 2armadillos.com

PollyStyle
Though everything on PollyStyle’s artisanal snack menu looks delicious, the graham crackers are already a proven hit with the under-10 set. With just a bit of local honey and cinnamon, your kids will love the sweetness of these biscuits, and you’ll love the price: $6.75 for a dozen. You can find PollyStyle snacks at stores near you or online (we see you adding that curried cashew brittle to your cart!). Handmade near Rock Creek Park.

Online: pollystyle.com

Have you tasted any delicious, locally-made snacks? Dish in the comments section below. 

—Kelly Ann Jacobson

Photos courtesy of Sunfire Girls via Facebook, Number 1 Sons via Facebook, Michele’s Granola via Facebook, Teeny Pies via Facebook, 2 Armadillos via Facebook, crimfants via Flickr