Don’t forget about mom this holiday season. Saturday Night Live host Kristen Wiig highlighted what Christmas morning really looks like for some moms, in a sketch that went almost instantly viral when it aired in 2020 because it was so on point. In the sketch, Wiig gets woken up early by her kids, played by Kyle Mooney and Chloe Fineman.
Her kids and husband begin revealing all of their gifts, and mom, well… she doesn’t have much.
Mooney sings about receiving a Nerf gun, Hulk hands, a drum set, and a telescope. Fineman gets a hat, a phone, and a copy of Catcher in the Rye. Wiig’s husband, played by Beck Bennett, gets a signed baseball bat, a laptop, and a tie. And mom gets a… robe.
The song continues with the family listing off more and more presents, including the piano from Big. Wiig thanks her family (rather unconvincingly) for the robe, which she suddenly notices was also on sale.
While making breakfast, Wiig emerges from the kitchen with a dishrag over her hand letting her family know she burned herself. “It hurt pretty bad, but I didn’t even scream/because I keep the pain inside of me,” she raps.
When it looks like there might just be some extra presents for her after all, the kids and dad announce, “It’s presents for the dog!” The dog opens all of his gifts, which include a bone, treats, and, why yes, even his own robe.
As the sketch ends, an exhausted Wiig is sitting alone on the couch holding a glass of red wine. “Your mom does everything for your family,” says a voice-over. “This year get her more than one present. Moms like stuff, too.”
Treehouses, mountain views, beach days, and even a zombie-proof vehicle you can sleep in
Whether you’re looking for an awesome staycation or your next family road trip destination, we’ve pulled together the best Airbnbs for kids in every state. These family-friendly vacation rentals offer great locations, unique stays, and more, all at prices much lower than hotels. Plus, the convenience factor could not be higher.
ALABAMA: Off-Grid UNIMOG Zombie-Proof Adventure - Kimberly, AL
How cool is this Airbnb? This 1966 UNIMOG was used as a movie prop in TheHunger Games and the Walking Dead. Two people can sleep in the UNIMOG and there are spots for additional people to sleep on the open-air sleeping loft. You are totally off the grid at this spot as you'll drop your car at the farm's goat pen and throw your belongings in the back of the UTV. Staff will drive you what will seem like a hundred miles away from society onto the 105-acre sanctuary. You will hike beautiful scenery, play in the river and chill in your lounge chair on an observation deck that lets you truly escape the world below.
Sleeps: 4 but more can be accommodated. Dogs allowed. Cost: $102/night Online: airbnb.com
ALASKA: Shackleford Creek Mountain House—Cooper Landing, AK
Airbnb
You'll love exploring the mountains and lakes that surround this cabin that's a mile from the town of Cooper Landing. Fishing, hiking, and mountain biking trails are all within minutes of the house and there are multiple guides in town to help you get out there and explore. Guests have access to the gear shed where they can store gear and fish.
Have you ever thought about how cool it would be to stay in a Navajo hut, with an earthen floor and a wood-burning stove? This rustic Native American-owned traditional Navajo hut near Page, Arizona accommodates four family members and has a fully-stocked bathroom nearby and an outside fire pit is where you’ll cook your dinner under the moonlight. The best part: you’ll wake up to a traditional Navajo breakfast complete with blue corn porridge, fresh fruit, and ranch coffee or tea sourced from the land. Keep a look out for roaming sheep, sheepdogs, and horses before you set off for a visit to the nearby Grand Canyon.
ARKANSAS: Spacious Lake Hamilton Home—Hot Springs Township, AR
Airbnb
You can bring your whole crew and more to this lakefront house that sleeps 16. There are kayaks, a canoe, and a stand-up paddle board available for guests to use. The outdoor hot tub is the perfect spot to relax after a busy day.
Can't you just feel the chill vibe from this Aptos treehouse rental? Close to New Brighton State Beach, this rental offers nearby hiking trails and beach days galore. Mid-Century furniture fills the rooms where you can curl up for a good read after a day outdoors. Heated floors, Smart TV, and a gorgeous kitchen will make your visit that much more comfortable. Read our Santa Cruz guide for ideas on what to do in the area.
How cozy would it be to spend the night in this treehouse high above Cattle Creek? Climb up the staircase and you'll find a full kitchen and wood-burning stove. Bring your coffee and hot cocoa out to one of the decks and watch the stars. You can even bring your pets!
CONNECTICUT: Lakefront Cabin in Connecticut—Sherman, CT
Airbnb
Your family will love cozying up at the fireplace after a day spent snowshoeing or hiking in the nearby woods. You'll have water access if the weather allows and plenty of space to relax.
Stunning modern home within biking and walking distance to town. The main house is 3 bedrooms each with its own full bath, powder room, large living room, dining room, and kitchen area, and a large screen porch. The property also includes a separate studio/4th bedroom with a powder room and outdoor shower area.
Located just one exit away from Disney World, your kids won’t complain when it’s time to go back and rest. There’s the 101 Dalmatians room with spotted walls, twin beds, and stuffed dogs everywhere. The Frozen room is decked out with floor-to-ceiling decorations from the movie and stuffed Olaf and friends on the twin beds. Mom and Dad will appreciate the Mary Poppins master suite. The house’s game room is themed with Star Wars and features a space-age ping pong table, a conventional pool table, and a foosball table game. In case the kids didn’t burn off enough energy at the theme parks, there will be pretty of time to do so in the home’s private indoor pool.
The home also comes with a full kitchen, dining room that seats 10, living room, air conditioning, and TVs in every bedroom. A grocery store and fast food options are only a mile away too.
Just a few minutes away from downtown Atlanta you’ll find this luxury cottage “guarded” by alpacas and the beautiful Dali Llama. Imagine waking up in a super comfy memory foam bed to real roosters instead of an alarm clock. Then, make breakfast with farm-fresh eggs in a beautiful granite kitchen. Afterward, you can feed the llamas, play a board game or two or travel into town. Enjoy the garden from the cottage patio. The home is equipped with children’s toys, TVs, and Wi-Fi too. The place is a mixture of casual comfort and elegant touches. Get a sense of what it’s like to live on a farm without having to leave the city.
Enjoy the ultimate Hawaiian resort vacation. This villa is luxuriously equipped with every comfort that you can imagine. You'll have a private putt-putt course, a lush edible garden featuring tropical varieties such as papaya and mango, as well as a heated pool and spa.
Sleeps: 8 guests Cost: $631/night and up Online:airbnb.com
With this rental, you'll get absolutely stunning and unmatched views of the Salmon River! This beautiful, newly constructed, hand-crafted home features an open floor plan with southwestern accents throughout. Private beach access. Conveniently located one mile North of downtown Riggins, Idaho.
ILLINOIS: Stunning Old Town Penthouse with Private Rooftop (Chicago, IL)
Airbnb
If a 4,000-square-foot luxury penthouse, in the heart of downtown, sparks your interest, then look no further than this rental. Built in 1897 and renovated in 2017, this is a treasure like no other. There are two units connected in this penthouse, linked by a private staircase, allowing for two living rooms, two kitchens, and two laundry rooms.
The Cozy Nest is an adorable three-bedroom, pet-friendly cottage with amazing views of a quiet, no-wake lake. There is a private, 4-person hot tub overlooking the lake. It's the perfect spot for your summer vacation!
The home is located in a small neighborhood surrounded by friendly neighbors with a great view of the lake. It has 2 spacious living room areas, 3 bedrooms, and a bathroom located on each level. It's only a short drive from Omaha so you can check out all the city has to offer while you are there.
Soak up the modern and vintage charm of our fully remodeled home! Eclectic accents include original 1960’s mirror artwork, original Lane dining and coffee tables, and a super cool 10-foot tall pocket door.
KENTUCKY: Fossil Creek Woodlands Retreat—Pendleton, KY
Airbnb
Fossil Creek provides a relaxing environment for family and friends to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy beautiful Kentucky woodlands. This home is situated at the base of 65 wooded acres in Oldham County Kentucky. Its name comes from the plethora of fossils that can be seen in the creek that runs along the front of the property. Kids will love checking out the "Hobbit Loft" that connects the three bedrooms.
Amazing three bedroom, 2500 sq. ft home with wrap-around deck overlooking the river with breathtaking views. The house is stunning with an enormous living room and master suite. Nestled in the woods on 7 acres, you will feel as if you are in a tree house. There is a bridge and trails that lead down to the river.
MAINE: Luxurious Treehouse Near Bar Harbor—Hancock, ME
Airbnb
Rekindle the joy of being a kid as you revel in luxury suitable for grownups. This treehouse is nestled among maple, spruce, cedar, pine, and birch. Spacious at 900 square feet, this treehouse offers such comforts as a whirlpool, sauna, kitchen, fireplace, seasonal outdoor shower, and plenty of deck space. Pets are welcome.
This perfectly private property, aptly named Peace and Plenty Farm, features a heated lap pool (open May to October) surrounded by wildflowers. It's the perfect place to relax after exploring historic downtown Frederick, Maryland (about 15 minutes away), or Gettysburg, Pennsylvania (45 minutes away). Other features include a grill, fire pit, and walking trails.
For a true New England vacation with a killer view, you can have this entire historic lighthouse and its adjacent home all to yourself. Located at the tip of Wings Neck Point along the western coast of Cape Cod, the lighthouse was built in 1849 and completely renovated in 2003. Formerly a U.S. Coast Guard lighthouse, the light tower still stands next to the original three-bedroom keeper's home. Kids will love climbing the whirling stairs and subsequent ladder to reach the glass top of the lighthouse, where they'll get a 360-degree view of the Atlantic Ocean and the adjacent rocky shores. And, when just looking at the water isn't enough, there is a private sandy beach nearby where kids can swim in the gentle waves of the bay.
MICHIGAN: Lake Skegemog Dream Retreat—Williamsburg, MI
Airbnb
For a truly spectacular stay, book this spacious 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath house offering top-notch features like a waterfront location on Lake Skegemog, a private dock, and a well-appointed interior. Completing the package, the vacation rental lies within a quick drive of major destinations like Mt. Holiday, the National Cherry Festival, and Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail. Kids will love all the exploring they can do on the property and nearby.
Perfect for a family reunion, the Northern Retreat sits on the edge of Roy Lake and contains three buildings over five acres. Here you’ll find eight bedrooms with 11 beds, nine bathrooms, a private tennis court, two exercise rooms, two screen-in porches, three decks, a barrel sauna, a hot tub, a game room (that features a pool table, ping pong, foosball, and a popcorn machine) and a most impressive movie theater room with nine reclining and a big-screen movie wall.
Outside you’ll find a walking trail, two fire pits, and a 32-foot-long dock. The house is located just a mile from the town of Nisswa which has several fun shops, restaurants and activities, and the Paul Bunyon Trail.
MISSISSIPPI: The Nest, a Waterfront Cottage—Long Beach, MS
Airbnb
Imagine drinking your morning coffee or an evening glass of wine on this spacious front porch while overlooking the breathtaking gulf! This charming beachfront cottage is the perfect place to relax while being near great restaurants, bars, nightlife, and of course the beach.
MISSOURI: Deer Ridge Crossing in the Ozarks—Cassville, MO
Airbnb
Head to the Ozarks to experience some time in this spacious yurt. 30 acres of woods are available for exploring and the kids will love seeing what creatures they can find. You'll love that this spot has a real bed. Feel free to bring your dog with you as this spot is pet-friendly.
The Raven's Nest treehouse is a modern A-frame treehouse nestled on 5 private acres. This artistically designed two-story treehouse has all the luxury amenities you'll need for your next family vacation. There's no shortage of activities as it is within 30 minutes of Glacier National Park and minutes from Whitefish Mountain Ski Resort. The grand entrance to the Raven's Nest is an iron staircase leading you up into the trees. There are two outdoor deck areas, a full bathroom on the main floor and a second-floor bathroom with a large soaking tub. Kids will especially love how two living trees grow through the treehouse interior of the Raven's Nest. There's a second treehouse on the property if you want to make it a multi-family visit.
This 5-bedroom farmhouse is ready to welcome your family for a relaxing vacation. Kids will love checking out the property's horses, cattle, and chickens. You can hike, fish in the private lake, and use the kayaks during your stay.
The Denali Farmhouse is a modern home with stunning private views of the Ruby Mountains. Pre-arranged farm tours of the ranching property are available. There are tons of hiking opportunities and in the winter, snowshoeing and backcountry skiing.
This ultra-cute caboose has the coveted sleeping spot in the cupola. You'll find that the caboose is located near lots of outdoor recreation spots like swimming holes and waterfalls, as well as several restaurants.
NEW JERSEY: Brand New Waterfront Home—Ship Bottom, NJ
Airbnb
You'll love the chill vibe in this vacation home and all the rooms have water views. The rooftop deck, beach, and dock, provide many options to relax or play. Bring your water toys or beach blanket and enjoy!
NEW MEXICO: Desert View with a Pool—Fountain Hills, NM
Airbnb
Relax in your own private heated pool and hot tub, and grill like a pro in your outdoor kitchen. Watch a game on the outdoor TV with an upgraded speaker system. Soak in some incredible Arizona views. As you lay in the loungers above the pool, you are surrounded by desert terrain and treated to a breathtaking view of Red Mountain.
NEW YORK: The Ranch With Outdoor Luxuries—Kerhonskon, NY
Airbnb
A hot tub, tank pool, outdoor movie screen, and fire pit nestled in the wilderness? Yes, please! (And that's just on the outside!) Stony Hill Ranch has four bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths, as well as a "Jam Shed" where you can rock out for an additional deposit. The property is in Kerhonkson, NY near the Shawangunk Mountains, but it's also near a Walmart if you need to stock up on things.
Take in the rustic, fairy-tale vibe of this custom-made treehouse in the midst of towering white oaks. Recline in a rocking chair and watch the sunset over the mountains, or try your hand at some stargazing from the comfort of the deluxe double bed. There's an additional treehouse on the property if you want to make it a multi-family stay.
NORTH DAKOTA: Scenic Buckhorn Ranch Cabin—Medora, ND
Airbnb
This log cabin is located in an isolated area of the North Dakota Badlands, about halfway between the North and South Units of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The historic district surrounding the cabin also offers world-class trails for horseback riding, hiking, and mountain bike riding, as well as opportunities for fishing and canoeing when river levels are adequate. Kids will love searching for fossils and minerals in the Little Missouri River bed.
OHIO: Lakefront Retreat on Portage Lakes—New Franklin, OH
Airbnb
This beautiful and spacious waterfront four-bedroom home is perfect for all your getaway needs! Bring your boat and dock at the property, or rent one nearby. There are many great local restaurants accessible by boat. Enjoy the firepit and fish from the dock. There's a game closet full of indoor fun if you catch bad weather.
OKLAHOMA: Luxurious Cabin for the Whole Crew—Broken Bow, OK
Airbnb
With three master suites and a loft that can sleep up to six kids, your crew will have plenty of space to spread out. Spend time cooking on the outdoor BBQ and then roast s'mores on the fire pit. It is just minutes away from everything Hochatown has to offer.
Surprisingly affordable, this is one of the best Airbnb vacation rentals we've seen. Cozy up in this work of art that's designed to make you (and the kids–it’s about the kids, right?) feel like you're part of the Hobbit's epic adventures. From the furniture to the walls and ceilings this handcrafted, sustainable abode is inspired by the Lord of the Rings and is guaranteed to infuse your vacation with magic. It's made from reclaimed clay, tree roots, and reclaimed materials, which you'll discover throughout the entire space. There's also a Hobbit-friendly memory foam queen bed, a leather sofa sleeper (also with memory foam), a kitchenette with a nearby dining area decked out with a Swarovski crystal chandelier, and a European-styled bathroom.
PENNSYLVANIA: A Cozy Bargain in the Poconos—Saylorsburg, PA
Airbnb
It's cute and compact, and the price is right! This little cottage in the Poconos is small but mighty, with peaceful sitting areas, a fire pit, grill, and patio string lights, and it's also pet-friendly. Plus, it's near hiking, flea markets, and other area attractions.
This gorgeous 1940s Quonset hut was used in the war to store ammunition and now is fully renovated and ready to welcome guests. Bedrooms consist of an upstairs Master bed with an ensuite bathroom and sitting area, 1 queen-size bedroom, 1 full-size bedroom, and 1 Summer Secret Kids Playroom with bunkbeds and additional air mattresses if needed. Borrow the bikes for a one-mile ride to the beach.
Will you head to the ocean or spend the day in the pool? The choice is yours at this gorgeous rental that's just a short walk to Center Street and 20 minutes to Charleston. Enjoy the low country breezes on one of the three porches, or gather the family around in the sunroom after a long day on the beach.
You'll love this hidden gem in the heart of the Black Hills, nestled on 3 private acres. With decks in every direction, you're encouraged to take in the abundance of nature. Watch for whitetail deer, turkeys, birds, and squirrels. Relax under the pines in the hot tub or the gazebo jetting out over a gully.
This cabin offers a charming and private Smoky Mountain escape. The peacefulness and solitude provide all the privacy you need for a break from the stress of the real world with your family. The cabin setting is quiet with the only noise being the Dollywood train whistle and local wildlife going about their day. The cabin is surrounded by woods on all sides, except of course for the clearing of the view.
TEXAS: The Silo House at Laughing Llama Farm—Troy, TX
Airbnb
Located near Waco, Texas, and about 20 miles from the downtown area, this expansive farm stay includes an incredibly unique converted grain silo with all the amenities, including a sleeping loft, full bathroom, kitchen, and a fishing pond on site. Visit with the sheep and llamas and relax in the peace and quiet.
This serene guest home on a family ranch is 9 miles south of Cedar City. Enjoy the miniature farm animals, orchards, and gardens. Minutes from Kanarraville Falls and other hiking trails and 10 min from Zion's North Entrance, this property is perfectly situated for outdoor adventures.
Sweeping views are part of the dream that comes with a visit to this Stowe, VT yurt. Warm yourself by the fire pit or indoor wood stove when the days get cold. Kids will love all of the wildlife on the property including birds, moose, deer, fish, frogs, salamanders and owls at night.
This large home in the heart of Clarendon in North Arlington offers a wading pool perfect for pint-sized swimmers. Before or after your dip, don't forget to roast marshmallows in the outdoor fire pit. Feel free to leave your car at home; this house is conveniently located near a metro stop.
If you’ve got a little LEGO lover in the fam, he or she is going to think everything about this house is awesome! The bright and funky architectural home (Wendell Lovett) includes LEGO design elements in the kitchen and LEGO wall art (using real bricks!), as well as plenty of open space and light-filled rooms. Parents and kiddos alike will love the A-frame design and spots of bright colors and stylish furnishings around every corner.
Set back on a wooded lot (with an outdoor eating space), the home features three bedrooms, a loft, and two and a half bathrooms and feels very open and airy with its high vaulted ceiling and open stairwell. This house has easy access to Matthews Beach and Magnuson Park (two kid faves), as well as the retail shops and restaurants at University Village. It is just far enough away from downtown Seattle to feel private, but also close enough when it’s time to go have fun.
WASHINGTON DC: Classic Scandinavian Kid Haven—Washington, DC
Airbnb
This 100+-year-old historic row house located in D.C.'s Mt. Pleasant neighborhood is perfectly situated to fun spots for the entire family, including Rock Creek Park and the National Zoo which are next-door neighbors, and the White House and National Mall which are two miles away. After exploring the city, let the kids hang in the playroom with toys, books, Wii games or splash in the ball pit (yes! there's a ball pit!).
From a guest: "The attic room is a kid's haven. We had to drag them out every day. They enjoyed the ball pit, puppets, LEGO, drum set, Wii game console, and a myriad of other toys." Sleeps: 8 Cost: $325/night Online: airbnb.com
This private 3-bedroom house includes a rooftop dome (which serves as the third bedroom). From almost every spot, enjoy the jaw-dropping scenery of endless mountains, three states, and the Potomac River.
WISCONSIN: Pirate Ship Adventure Cabin—Lyndon Station, WI
airbnb
Ahoy, me hearties! Pirate-loving littles will definitely want to spend a night aboard the “Passing Wind,” outside of Wisconsin Dells. The unbelievable Pirate Ship Adventure Cabin has room for six and is guaranteed to make memories. A slide, swing set, and tons of pirate décor add to the fun. Parents should know that the ship’s two bedrooms are separated by a short 15-foot walk across an outdoor lower deck, and bathrooms are a short walk away.
This gorgeous property sits in the middle of 15 private acres with views of the South Fork River Valley, Buffalo Bill Reservoir, and surrounding mountains. It has plenty of beds for your family and is a great spot to bed down and then head out on nearby adventures.
Here’s what to do when your child gets three of the same toy for Christmas
Wouldn’t it be great if everyone’s holiday resembled a scene depicted in a Norman Rockwell painting? It’s just not realistic—and where’s the fun in that, anyway? Smiles and tantrums, calm and kerfuffles, serenity, and debacles are all the things that make the holidays unpredictable and beautiful. Our holiday survival guide includes a list of possible snafus and tips to help you keep your cool.
Imagine you’re standing in the line of melting children and anxious parents waiting to overpay for that annual snapshot with the mall Santa. It's your turn and suddenly one of your little angels develops an irrational fear of all things Santa. Mr. Claus props your kid up like a wet noodle as you’re looking for the nearest exit.
Holiday Survival Guide Tip: What's the problem here? A cheesy mall snapshot capturing a Level 4 toddler freakout and an obviously annoyed Santa is Instagram gold. Get the shot, dig out their favorite lovie you’ve stashed in the diaper bag, and smile because this is a picture you’ll treasure.
Possible Snafu: Gift Duplication
iStock
An adult who receives a duplicate gift will proclaim their love of the item while discreetly digging through tissue paper in search of a gift receipt, careful to preserve any tags. Children, however, are prone to reactions anywhere on the spectrum of matter-of-a-fact “I already own this” proclamations to window-shattering, rolling-on-the-floor screaming fits.
Survival Tip: Never underestimate the value of role-playing. Prepare them for the possibility this could happen and coach them on ways to respond— "No matter what you receive, just say 'thank you" It's also a great time to remind them it’s the thought, not the gift, that counts. Play a fun role-playing game and simulate opening something they already own, allowing yourselves to get a little silly. Should the situation occur, it’ll be an amusing wink-and-nod secret between you.
Once the pine-scented dust has settled, post-holidays, you’re left with a mountain of toys and tchotchkes that need to find a resting place in your already-busting-at-the-seams home. Finding space for the 25 spider rings and 16 pencils accumulated at the school Halloween party drove you to tears, and now you need to find space for a life-sized panda bear, Barbie’s Beach House, and Ken’s midlife-crisis cherry red Corvette.
Holiday Survival Guide Tip: Resist the urge to meet the garbage man at the curb come trash collection day and adopt a one-in, one-out rule. A couple of weeks before Christmas, review your kid’s wish list with them and explain in order to receive, they need to give. Be prepared: They’re resourceful little boogers and will try to convince you they can find space for it all—even if it means shoving things under chairs, stacking items precariously, or throwing out their underpants to make room in a drawer. Donate gently loved but no longer wanted toys to a worthy local nonprofit organization.
Toy manufacturers seem to enjoy the idea of parents wrestling with a mini screwdriver to get battery compartments open. And they usually don’t even throw us a bone by giving us the first round of juice with a starter set of batteries. What do you do if it's Christmas Day, no stores are open and Johnny cleared out his closet to make room for a life-like dinosaur that walks, talks, transforms, and is slated to crush his little sister’s My Little Pony herd?
Survival Tip: Do yourself a favor and buy batteries in bulk before Santa makes his rounds. For the most part, you know what gifts they’re receiving, so research the batteries requirements and be sure to have them on hand. Throw a few extra in the cart for the unexpected gifts from the family. While you're at it, grab a toothpick-sized screwdriver the next time you're at the hardware store— you're going to need it.
Holiday euphoria has fueled a sudden burst of energy and you have an inexplicable urge to bake 15 different types of cookies and a fruit cake. After a quick ingredient review, you realize you're a ¼ tsp. of vanilla away from your destiny, but your little one is napping. Even if he wasn’t, you risk getting stuck in line behind the people clearing out the bottled water supply preparing for snowmageddon because they spotted a flake.
Holiday Survival Guide Tip: Stock up on baking essentials. Most ingredients required for baking have a long shelf life, so if it takes you until Easter to use them all, no biggie. You can also get simple ingredients and lots of staples delivered to your home fast by using a food delivery service such as Instacart.
Maybe before you were a parent it brought you great joy to buy the most annoying gift you could possibly find for a sibling's kids. Why not? You didn’t have to live with it and plus, when you were little your brother teased you relentlessly, so he totally deserved to lose partial hearing because you gifted his two-year-old cymbals. The day of reckoning is upon you—the gifts your kid receives will be big, they will be loud and they’re going to have more pieces than stars in the sky.
Survival Tip: We can't help you here. If you fired the first shots, you have no choice but to accept an annoying gift or two. After the scores have been settled, initiate a peace treaty so no one needs to live in fear of what might be under the tree. Discuss parameters for gifts and work together to complete wish lists. If they break the treaty, you are well within your rights to unleash a wrath that can only be calmed by buying your niece or nephew a rambunctious puppy or a matching drum set for those cymbals.
It seems like just yesterday your little bean came into this world and now, here they are, celebrating yet another birthday. You’ve watched them grow, learn new things and played witness to their heartwarming milestones (remember the first time they tried real food?).
As they continue to develop their fine and gross motor skills, introducing them to fun, interactive and educational toys from VTech® and LeapFrog® can help them during this process. Unsure of where to start? We’ve created an easy-to-follow guide of the best gifts, categorized by price, to help you decide which toys will make them smile—and fire off those neurons!
Little ones will love mimicking mom and dad with the Click & Count Remote™ from VTech®. With nine different channels to explore, tots can learn numbers, colors and shapes, while also singing along to adorable songs, listening to fun melodies and watching the pretend news and weather.
Say goodbye to a bathroom sink overflowing with water. VTech's play soap dispenser lets your kiddo wash their hands without all the mess. They can practice pump-pressing, which will project a musical light onto their hands, and learn healthy hygiene habits with a catchy 20-second song that teaches them the five steps to handwashing—the perfect amount of time for scrubbing away icky germs!
This interactive flashlight not only functions like a real flashlight (fully loaded with six vibrant color settings!), but it also shines a light on how fun learning can be. Your little one will be informed when the flashlight has been turned on and off to introduce them to opposites and when they spin the magical color-changing ring, they'll learn about different colors and animals. They can also press the buttons on the side to listen to upbeat tunes and nature sounds, sing their ABCs or play an interactive game.
Who said ironing clothes can't be fun? LeapFrog's motion-activated iron set features over 10 educational activities that'll encourage your child to count to five, sing the alphabet and discover different colors, fabrics and heat settings as they iron out the wrinkles in the play clothing.
Let your toddler's inner rockstar shine with the VTech® KidiBeats Drum Set™, which features three drum pads and a cymbal that each play its own unique sound. Your little drummer can jam along to nine different styles of music, including rock, pop and dance, and also learn their letters and numbers along the way.
According to experts, parents should introduce their children to a second language as early as possible. With this interactive book, your kiddos can get a leg up on practicing over 100 words in both English and Spanish, including word categories such as animals, pets, colors, food, mealtime, activities, opposites, and more.
Your early learner's imagination can run wild with this video game that takes them on a quest for keys to unlock Clever Castle. The adorable adventure introduces early learning through the exploration of over 150 educational prompts, including letters, numbers, shapes and colors. Insert the plug-and-play HDMI game stick and USB power cable into the television and start playing the video game immediately using the wireless controller—no web connection, downloads or account setup required!
The Pop-a-Balls™ Push & Pop Bulldozer™ will boost your little builder's movement and motor skills, as they roll the toy across your living room floor. The colorful balls pop up through the chimney and fly back into the bucket as it moves to keep your toddler active and engaged. Plus: the fun buttons on the side will help them repeat colors, numbers and words for an educational spin.
In need of a helper around the house? With the LeapFrog® Pick Up & Count Vacuum™, your child can join you during a deep clean by picking up ten colorful pieces. As your kiddo works to vacuum each pretend dust bunny, the smart toy will say the color aloud and count each one to encourage your kiddo to do the same.
As your bundle of joy goes from crawling to walking, the VTech® Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker™ will grow right alongside them. Start off with the easy-to-remove learning center for ground-level play, which features five piano keys that play music, three shape sorters and three light-up buttons, two colorful spinning rollers and a pretend phone. Once your explorer is ready to make some moves, turn the panel center into a walker so your baby can be on the go.
If you have a budding athlete in the family, this 2-in-1 kids basketball hoop sports center is the perfect gift. Plus: The animated light-up scoreboard counts baskets up to 10 and plays encouraging animations, sounds and phrases.
Forget about owning a lemonade stand when LeapFrog® will let you run your own ice cream cart. Watch your mini confectioner create imaginative and mouth-watering ice cream combinations with the adorable Scoop & Learn Ice Cream Cart™. Toss in extra sprinkles for us, please!
For more birthday gift inspiration, visit vtechkids.com and leapfrog.com to discover other adorable toys that’ll promote learning and fun!
It seems like just yesterday your little bean came into this world and now, here they are, celebrating yet another birthday. You’ve watched them grow, learn new things and played witness to their heartwarming milestones (remember the first time they tried real food?).
As they continue to develop their fine and gross motor skills, introducing them to fun, interactive and educational toys from VTech® and LeapFrog® can help them during this process. Unsure of where to start? We’ve created an easy-to-follow guide of the best gifts, categorized by price, to help you decide which toys will make them smile—and fire off those neurons!
Little ones will love mimicking mom and dad with the Click & Count Remote™ from VTech®. With nine different channels to explore, tots can learn numbers, colors and shapes, while also singing along to adorable songs, listening to fun melodies and watching the pretend news and weather.
Say goodbye to a bathroom sink overflowing with water. VTech's play soap dispenser lets your kiddo wash their hands without all the mess. They can practice pump-pressing, which will project a musical light onto their hands, and learn healthy hygiene habits with a catchy 20-second song that teaches them the five steps to handwashing—the perfect amount of time for scrubbing away icky germs!
This interactive flashlight not only functions like a real flashlight (fully loaded with six vibrant color settings!), but it also shines a light on how fun learning can be. Your little one will be informed when the flashlight has been turned on and off to introduce them to opposites and when they spin the magical color-changing ring, they'll learn about different colors and animals. They can also press the buttons on the side to listen to upbeat tunes and nature sounds, sing their ABCs or play an interactive game.
Who said ironing clothes can't be fun? LeapFrog's motion-activated iron set features over 10 educational activities that'll encourage your child to count to five, sing the alphabet and discover different colors, fabrics and heat settings as they iron out the wrinkles in the play clothing.
Let your toddler's inner rockstar shine with the VTech® KidiBeats Drum Set™, which features three drum pads and a cymbal that each play its own unique sound. Your little drummer can jam along to nine different styles of music, including rock, pop and dance, and also learn their letters and numbers along the way.
According to experts, parents should introduce their children to a second language as early as possible. With this interactive book, your kiddos can get a leg up on practicing over 100 words in both English and Spanish, including word categories such as animals, pets, colors, food, mealtime, activities, opposites, and more.
Your early learner's imagination can run wild with this video game that takes them on a quest for keys to unlock Clever Castle. The adorable adventure introduces early learning through the exploration of over 150 educational prompts, including letters, numbers, shapes and colors. Insert the plug-and-play HDMI game stick and USB power cable into the television and start playing the video game immediately using the wireless controller—no web connection, downloads or account setup required!
The Pop-a-Balls™ Push & Pop Bulldozer™ will boost your little builder's movement and motor skills, as they roll the toy across your living room floor. The colorful balls pop up through the chimney and fly back into the bucket as it moves to keep your toddler active and engaged. Plus: the fun buttons on the side will help them repeat colors, numbers and words for an educational spin.
In need of a helper around the house? With the LeapFrog® Pick Up & Count Vacuum™, your child can join you during a deep clean by picking up ten colorful pieces. As your kiddo works to vacuum each pretend dust bunny, the smart toy will say the color aloud and count each one to encourage your kiddo to do the same.
As your bundle of joy goes from crawling to walking, the VTech® Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker™ will grow right alongside them. Start off with the easy-to-remove learning center for ground-level play, which features five piano keys that play music, three shape sorters and three light-up buttons, two colorful spinning rollers and a pretend phone. Once your explorer is ready to make some moves, turn the panel center into a walker so your baby can be on the go.
If you have a budding athlete in the family, this 2-in-1 kids basketball hoop sports center is the perfect gift. Plus: The animated light-up scoreboard counts baskets up to 10 and plays encouraging animations, sounds and phrases.
Forget about owning a lemonade stand when LeapFrog® will let you run your own ice cream cart. Watch your mini confectioner create imaginative and mouth-watering ice cream combinations with the adorable Scoop & Learn Ice Cream Cart™. Toss in extra sprinkles for us, please!
For more birthday gift inspiration, visit vtechkids.com and leapfrog.com to discover other adorable toys that’ll promote learning and fun!
When my firstborn turned one, my well-meaning (and kid-less) brother sent him a musical lawnmower for his birthday. As a newly minted walker, this seemed like the perfect toy for my son, right? Wrong. While the toy was great in one sense (he walked everywhere with it), the maniacal song it played echoed loudly throughout our home… and haunted our dreams.
Chances are, if you’ve got a toddler, you’ve got some of those cursed musical toys lurking in your toy chest. Maybe you’ve hidden them away. Maybe you’ve taken out the batteries and gently lied, “Oh no, it’s broken,” to your wide-eyed toddler. Whatever lengths you’ve gone to to avoid those Grinch-y “oh, the noise, noise, noise” moments, we completely understand. But parents, you can save those little white lies for the big stuff (like tooth fairies and water-filled spray bottles that kill monsters under the bed), because we’ve rounded up some do-re-me-fa-so amazing toys that make music your kids love without giving you a perpetual headache.
You can count on the calming sounds of classical music to seamlessly blend into the background of your family’s daily life with this toddler favorite. It rotates through eight different Mozart masterpieces, and tots can turn instruments on and off with the touch of a button. Want to isolate the French horns? Give it a push. Only up for the tickled ivories? Piano mode it is. Or your kids can listen to the whole kit and caboodle in orchestra mode. Add in a volume button and you’ve got a toy you’ll never fear giving to your 2-year-old. Play on!
If your kids love The Wheels on the Bus, they’ll love the puzzle that sings it to them as they remove and replace pieces using the easy-to-grab knobs. What parents love is that each light-activated song section plays through (only) one time after being triggered. No loops here. And the volume is Goldilocks’ just-right. But we’d be remiss if we didn’t point out a potential downside. Missing (or left out) pieces can lead to unintentional serenades at ungodly hours when the early morning sun comes through the windows and sets off the incomplete puzzle. An unfortunately true story.
Even if you didn’t have this one as a kid, it’s easy to see why it’s a timeless favorite. Not only does it play kids' favorite nursery rhymes, it also looks like a relic they might find at a grandparent’s house. (What is that thing anyway?) As far as music players go, this one is easy for parents to tune out and simple enough for kids as young as 2 to use. They can spin their favorite records like wannabe DJs without (much) help from you. That’s what we call a win-win.
This one’s “big” (wink, wink) fun, whether your tot just started to walk or they’ve been doing it for a while. It combines music and movement—two things that top a toddler’s playlist. Plus, it boasts all the must-haves to keep parents sane, like volume control and an automatic power off. Your toddlers will love that it’s versatile, too—they can listen to demo songs, record their very own and play back anything that’s created. When it’s all done, this oversized musical mat rolls up for easy storage (hello, clean playroom!).
This eco-friendly toy, featuring simple instruments from around the globe, will have you pondering what it would take to start a family band. With nine instruments, there’s (probably) at least one for every person in the family. These music makers not only let kids get creative while they play, they also avoid those sing-songy riffs so many battery-powered toys are known for. But if we had one tip for this set, it would be to consider “disappearing” the flute early on. You're welcome.
While we can’t promise this drum set won’t inspire louder (think: teenage) days, we can say it won’t leave your eardrums bleeding when your little rock star plays it. It features nine different melodies that change up often and includes 16 different drumbeat sounds. Kiddos can play on learning mode (the toy mixes drums beats and lights to counting and phonics) or they can switch to free play mode to get creative. Just remember, no Freebird.
We dig this push-n-go vehicle set that won’t drive you crazy with loud songs that go on forever. Instead, these cuties play simple songs that are catchy enough to intrigue your kiddos without morphing into earworms. They’re built for little hands and have a simple design that kids can figure out on their own. But the best part of this music maker has to be the auto-sleep mode that stops the music after just 20 short seconds of inactivity. So when your toddler inevitably gets distracted by that—hey, squirrel!—the band decidedly won’t play on.
Family reunions are on everyone’s mind so when you combine great destinations with great stays, you’ll have a memory-making vacation that is worth repeating year after year. The beauty of living in LA is that you have the mountains, the desert and the beaches all within a reasonable driving distance (and honestly, who doesn’t want to vacation here?). Check out our favorite Airbnbs that can accommodate family reunions and large groups no matter the size of your brood.
Voted one of the top homes in Idyllwild, this newly remodeled property has all the amenities you’ll ever need to have lots of fun times with your group. Designed with plenty of indoor space to have multiple, distinct units within the layout of the house for privacy, your crew will also enjoy hosting game nights in the spacious communal areas. There are endless possibilities for group tournaments with the pool table, ping pong table, pickle ball court, dart board, corn hole and your favorite board games. The expansive deck on the acre of forest land will give you the most magical natural scenery so you can bask in the creek view.
This spacious and cozy cabin features cathedral ceilings, log walls and a charming fireplace surrounded by the enchanting Big Bear mountains. There are plenty of places both indoor and outdoor to enjoy a hot cup of cocoa while kids frolic around the cabin. The fun continues in the secluded property with a pool table, table tennis, foosball, air hockey and a hot tub. You'll discover the sunrises and sunsets among the crisp air are breathtaking.Added bonus for families traveling with young children is the cabin provides a pack ‘n play and high chair upon request.
Nestled within the forest at an elevation of 6200 feet, this Alpine-style home features a large wrap-around porch where you can spend your day appreciating the panoramic San Jacinto Mountain ridges. The breathtaking views in this chalet offer serene hikes throughout the mountain retreat while having the Idyllwild restaurants and shops just minutes away. The signature feature of this home is the relaxing Yoga studio perfect for your crew to feel a Zen-vibe on your vacation.
All the conveniences of modern luxe living are part of this gorgeous property among the breathtaking lake views as seen on its two decks. Designed with families and large groups in mind, your little ones will explore the many features of the game room and discover there are loads of board games to play, foosball challenges to partake in and plenty of songs to sing on the karaoke machine. Hiking trails and the Village are just moments away to soak in Lake Arrowhead’s natural beauty. Bonus for those traveling with young children is there are plenty of high chairs and pack and plays which make this home truly family-friendly.
Nestled within the pine trees lies this woodsy palace among one-a-half acres of luscious land. The beauty of this log home is its spacious and cozy accommodations that include a gourmet kitchen perfect for preparing large meals, multiple game rooms to diversify the family bonding time and a mesmerizing deck area complete with a hot tub and BBQ for some outdoor chill time. If you visit during snow season, bring your sleds because there’s plenty of room for sledding adventures on the property!
If you’re looking for a modern take on vacationing surrounded by nature, this exquisite home is just for you. It has all the amenities you would need for large groups to enjoy both privacy, featuring 3 levels of indoor space, as well as plenty of communal areas for memorable family game time both day and night. Families and friends can partake in some competitive play within the two game rooms containing your favorite board games, table tennis and family-friendly books. And if you want to feel the fresh air, venture outdoors in one of the 2 decks to view the lake under the festive lighting while making s’mores over the fire pit with your whole crew.
If you’re looking for a desert escape with lots of activities to do with your family and friends without ever having to leave the property, look no further. You can set up teams and enjoy a game of basketball on their very own private court, then have a break by taking a dip in the pool while listening to the meditative sounds of the waterfall. If basketball is not the game of your choice, you can easily convert the courts to be either tennis or badminton, which can add more good times to your desert dream destination. Unlike the homes in Palm Springs, this property does not have a noise ordinance so your little explorers are free to laugh as loud as their hearts’ desire.
Your kids will want to splash all day in the spacious pool while you watch over them in the jacuzzi as you indulge in your favorite beverage under the desert sky. This paradise location is clean, newly furnished and has plenty of space to accommodate for large groups. Your explorers will enjoy the huge backyard with a fire pit, zen garden and hammock. And for added fun, it also has a pool table for some quality time indoors.
Mere minutes from the Joshua Tree National Park, this desert oasis has all the amenities to make a large group feel right at home on five acres in the Highlands. The outdoor patio with its luxurious pool surrounded by the expansive grounds provides the ideal backdrop for a relaxing desert escape. Indoors, it even comes with its own game room containing a pool table, foosball and a barrel arcade. Both adults and kids will appreciate the serene location while partaking in some memory-making quality time.
This oasis offers the perfect combination of desert vibes mixed with the amenities of a modern, luxurious vacation home. Just 15 minutes from Joshua Tree National Park, you and your group can spend your days on the 5-acre property playing Marco Polo in the chic pool followed by a game or two on their horse shoe court. When you fancy a break from the fresh air, bond with your guests in the game room featuring a pool and Ping Pong table. What makes this destination ideal for large groups is that it has three kitchens to suit the needs of your fun group of family and friends.
Create a truly memorable vacation with your family and friends in this refined, modern retreat overlooking Surfrider Beach and Malibu mountains. Light and luxurious-living abound in every nook and cranny of this spacious getaway. The beauty of this villa is that you won’t need to take the kids on a long road trip to feel like you’re indulging in a beachy paradise. The little ones can jump on the trampoline while you grill the meal and lounge on the relaxing sun chairs taking in the LA sunset. Don't forget to check out our family guide to Malibu before you go!
This beach-chic 2-story home is just a few blocks from the Oceanside Beach, downtown and the pier. There is plenty of space both indoors and outdoors for your little ones to play hide-and-seek at this spacious beach-community home. Because San Diego County can still feel like summer during the holidays, you can spend the afternoon on their beautiful deck or in their jacuzzi while your kids splash around the pool and then explore the entertaining play structure. End the night by playing a competitive game of horse shoe! An added bonus to this house is LEGOLAND is just a quick few minutes drive away.
In this beachy paradise, step outside and enjoy the sand on your feet and make cute sand castles with the kids. The property itself gives you that perfect California-chill vibe with all the amenities you would need to host a large group. Something special about this location is from the house your little beach goers can watch the dolphins bounce and play in the ocean waves. The added bonus is that a large variety of recreational equipment is included in the rental including bikes, boogie boards and a double kayak!
Your group will feel relaxed and at home in this large property with plenty of space to cook memorable meals and enjoy eating them in the gorgeous patio overlooking the Saddleback mountains. The house is on a cul-de-sac and, therefore, surrounded by privacy and plenty of greenery. Your children will be entertained by watching the horses pass by along the equestrian trails. You can easily hop on one of the trails to exercise while exploring your surroundings. This property is not within walking distance from the beach, but it is easily accessible by car. Added bonus to this house is it has a fun play set which will inspire plenty of good times for your kids.
Picture yourself cutting the turkey at your Thanksgiving dinner then looking up and basking in the ocean view right outside your window. This comfortable and expansive three-story beach home allows for large groups to have their own levels while also offering several communal spaces throughout the property both inside and under the sun. Having the beach as your backyard is really the only playground your little ones will need the entire trip. While they make sand castles, you can BBQ dinner on the oceanfront patio.
For a complete unique group experience, the entire 5-unit boutique hotel gives guests the ideal combination of privacy and communal living. The convenience of this location provides a few minutes walk to the famous State Street, Paseo Nuevo shopping center, and the iconic Santa Barbara waterfront. You have options with units that have full kitchens and some that have convenient kitchenettes to meet the diverse needs of your group. The children will enjoy eating in the picturesque backyard after you explore the beauty of Santa Barbara throughout your day.
For a somewhat longer road trip, stay at this magical estate that will give you all the comforts and luxuries you need for a large group reunion. The layout of the property lends itself to giving multiple families privacy and serenity among the verdant vineyard in San Luis Obispo. The estate has spacious grounds for the kids to play freely while the adults relax on the patio soaking in the picturesque nature views. Your little farmers will enjoy checking out the chicken coop on the property and will end their adventurous days by listening to stories told around the fire pit in the evening. The gorgeous ranch offers trails where you can bump into any number of animals like wild turkeys and quail!
If you’re willing to splurge a bit, you and your group can spend your holiday vacation within a peaceful estate surrounded by magnificent avocado, citrus and oak trees where you can explore the hiking trails and find yourself in natural hot springs and stunning waterfalls. Ojai has the perfect moderate climate that invites you to spend your days outside grilling on the BBQ on the deck while your children play tag around the expansive property. For an additional fee, you can reserve the adjacent Zen Studio to add more space and amenities if needed by your guests.
When staying in this luxury villa, you can indulge in poolside views of the mountains, valley and nearby golf courses with the option of spending your vacay on the scenic property or visit downtown just a few minutes drive away. Because you most likely will be relaxing outdoors for much of the day in Ojai no matter the time of year, the spacious deck offers several entertainment options including a fire pit and BBQ. Indoors there is a game room with a pool table, foosball and a drum set for your little musicians to add some fun tunes to your holiday.
This gorgeous ranch offers a private, idyllic location beautifully situated among two vineyards offering breathtaking mountain views and plenty of land for the little ones to run freely. Majestic oak trees are nestled among the estate which includes a pond, luscious fields, and its very own farm. What makes this property so captivating is the layout of cottages which allows for families to maintain privacy and have their own mini-ranch space to accommodate their needs.
Sometimes the greatest escape from the hustle and bustle of the city isn’t an escape at all. An Airbnb staycation is a perfect alternative to all of that flight booking, guidebook reading, and restaurant scouring. Make your next family vacay R&R-ready by booking at one of these local abodes with kid friendly perks (think: dress up closets, projector screens and fun green spaces).
Yard for Days
Even though this Arlington home is full of wide open spaces (exhibit A: the sprawling basement playroom), it manages to give off major cozy vibes. Just a hop, skip and jump from Westover Library, spontaneous story times are the standard. If your brood is in a bouncy, ball tossing kind of mood there’s plenty of yard plus three public parks nearby.
From a guest: “It had tons of space, a playroom for the kids, is close to restaurants, and a 10-15 minute drive to downtown D.C.” Sleeps: 8
The Whole Kid and Caboodle
This house was literally designed with kids in mind. Equipped with cribs, play kitchens, and tons of books, you’ll only need to bring your bambino’s change of clothes (leave the hefty toy bag at home). Located in Brightwood, you’re two blocks from Rock Creek Park and just minutes from Silver Spring, gateways to family fun activities. Bonus: The master suite boasts a king-size memory foam bed, so you can sleep-in or co-sleep comfortably.
Sleeps: 9
Online: airbnb.com/rooms/23558219 Cute as a Button
his adorable home is located in Capitol Hill, just minutes from H Street (date night!) and Eastern Market (weekend stroll!). The light and airy vibes are perfect for your fams rest and relaxation but you’re still close enough to see any of the museums and monuments. With a play space, projector and dress-up costumes on site this will provide your kids with hours of fun while you relax on the patio with a bevy.
From a guest: “Terrific host and beautiful home. The kids loved the projector and the outdoor space and are already asking about going back!” Sleeps: 6
Online: airbnb.com/rooms/8149062 Garden Party
The garden of this home will entice you to spend the majority of your time outdoors (we’re envisioning kids chasing butterflies and making some major grass angels). Not to mention, this home is located in Arlington, right next to a historic park. FYI: Let the host know, before you go if you need a crib, toddler bed, or kid’s table, all of which she’ll set up before your stay.
From a guest: ” After very busy days, being able to come “home” to a quiet, spacious and relaxing retreat was perfect for our family.” Sleeps: 6
Fun Land
This 100+ year old historic row house located in D.C.’s Mt. Pleasant neighborhood is perfectly situated to fun spots for the entire family, including Rock Creek Park and the National Zoo that are next-door neighbors, and the White House and National Mall that are two miles away. After exploring the city, let the kids hang in the playroom with toys, books, Wii games or splash in the ball pit (yes! there’s a ball pit!).
From a guest: “The attic room is a kid’s haven. We had to drag them out everyday. They enjoyed the ball pit, puppets, Legos, drum set, Wii game console, and a myriad of other toys.” Sleeps: 8
We all love birthdays, and there is nothing more joyful than celebrating a little human’s special day! Don’t have time to search high and low for that “wow” gift that will let their imagination go wild? We hear you. Read on for our round-up of ten ultra-special gift ideas for your preschooler!
Bathtime is playtime! We are loving this little fishing set. Kids can catch and "reel in" a cute sea creature, catching it with a net. The best part: letting it go free back into the ocean, err, tub, and doing it all over again.
Meet your family's new storytime companion! The Toniebox is an imagination-building, interactive and screen-free digital listening experience that plays stories, songs and more. It comes to life when paired with a Tonie, which are hand-painted characters—some you know like Disney's Lion King and some are brand-new to discover! All Tonies come pre-loaded with loads of content, with stories to tell, worlds to explore and songs to sing along with! There are even Creative Tonies that allow you to add your own favorite songs and stories, or let grandparents read your kid their favorite book for an extra-special bedtime treat! Portable and sturdy, yet soft and bed friendly, it's the ultimate mix of technology and creativity that will keep your little one engaged, playing all on their own or with family and friends!
Cha-Ching! With all the beeps and buzzes of the real thing, kids love adding it all up and keeping their customers happy! Bonus: It's a great way to learn math skills, too. Shop 'til you drop—your little cashier will add it all up!
Nothing says "fun" like ice cream! Put together the ultimate ice cream treat with this fun set by Melissa & Doug! With so many flavors to choose from and a magnetized scooper, you'll think you're at the ice cream shop because this is the real deal.
Need to get the wiggles out in between virtual classes? This trampoline will be your lifesaver! It's fun, it's active and it's irresistible to kids. Pro-tip: keep it indoors for weather-proof fun anytime!
This birthday-themed LEGO Duplo set makes a great gift for their special day! Let their imagination run wild as they put together the ultimate celebration using fun and festive blocks!
This set of wheels is a classic for a reason! Kids love opening the door, sliding into the driver's seat and cruising with their feet! Plus, this cool coup's smiling eyes are pretty darn cute.
Kids are naturally inquisitive, so these binoculars are a no brainer! They can explore the world around them, near and far, indoors and out. Keep them entertained, engaged and discovering the world around them in a whole new way!
Music is a great way to encourage fine motor skills and creativity! This little drumset is all electronic with a soft "thump" so it won't hurt your ears while little ones are channeling their inner rockstar.
Camping is all the rage right now—why not make it an indoor activity, too? This easy pop-up tent makes the perfect reading nook for your little one. Grab a flashlight and some popcorn and now you've brought the great outdoors inside!
Lately, a walk through the park (even wearing a mask) has been a welcome escape from the confines of home. Throughout my life, swimming, singing, and reading books have provided opportunities for me to escape. But I rarely have access to a pool in my adult life, there are too many people in my home for me to sing every time I want to, and I’m embarrassed to admit how long it’s been since I’ve read a book for pleasure. I used to go through three books a week and tune out the world as I read. I found joy in reading to my children, or even sitting in the same room as we all read our own books.
This week—after far too long—I finally started reading Becoming by Michelle Obama. It’s a relief to escape into someone else’s world, adventures, successes, and struggles. As an educator, I read constantly for work, and while I enjoy much of it, it’s not really by choice.
In mid-March, like most kids, my boys had to continue school from home, online. My boys are now 19 and 21. They came home to continue their first and third years of college from their bedroom or our living room, on their laptops. They celebrated their birthdays at home—I put together a surprise Zoom call for my older one. Twenty-one. I wanted there to be something to remember beyond ‘COVID-19.’ He was initially so annoyed that I told him “Nana wants to say Happy Birthday via video after dinner.” Actually, so annoyed doesn’t really describe it. He used some not-so-lovely words and told me that his birthday was always about me. Actually, it is so close to Mother’s Day, a day that usually winds up being about him, or everyone other than me. Anyway, he was pleasantly surprised that I figured out how to contact his friends from camp, high school and college to join our family from near and far—everyone said ‘surprise!’, sang happy birthday, and chatted for a while. I had the chance to do a little activity which, of course, embarrassed him a bit before he continued the call with a small group of close friends who remained. He couldn’t go out to a restaurant or bar and order his first legal drink that night, but he was able to buy himself a gift, with his face mask on, at the liquor store. A rite of passage, I suppose. I just hope that when my younger one turns 21, the coronavirus is truly a thing of the past. Not that he will need to go to a bar in order to celebrate his 21st birthday, it would just be nice for him to be able to be with friends.
Sheltering in place. We’ve had select moments here and there, though honestly, it has been anything but ‘sweet’ to be home all together these past few months. My husband and I were supposed to be ’empty-nesters.’ Initially, that made me really sad; my kids had grown up, gone away to school, moved onto a new chapter in their lives. We knew it was temporary, but no sooner had I begun to kind of like it, did they move back in with no real end in sight.
Their summer jobs were even canceled. My husband and I also both teach for colleges, so with the four of us at home, there were many hours each day that at least 3 of us needed a private, quiet space to take or teach classes. Now college semesters are over, but there are still times when more than one of us needs a private, quiet place for a meeting or a class, to practice guitar or drums, have a Zoom call for fun, or simply to be alone for a few minutes. We don’t have an attic or a basement or a garage or a back yard, so I had made a color-coded schedule to hang on the fridge to minimize the arguments when it came to who got the bedrooms behind closed doors and who had to be in the living room while someone else was there working out in our new mini ‘home gym’, or watching TV with headphones. It was agreed that the drum set and the beds couldn’t be moved out of the bedroom, yet that didn’t keep one brother from being angry with the other for needing the space.
I’ve always worked part-time from home. However, having to balance parenting young adults with 100-percent of my work from home and limited opportunities to be with friends, colleagues, students, and clients is not easy. I have the good fortune of still having my work. And yes, I can also go out without worrying about not having a babysitter. We have our health and one day I’m sure I’ll miss them so terribly, perhaps I’ll look back on this time feeling grateful that we were together. Perhaps.
I’ve known that one day my kids would grow up and move out. As difficult as parenting is, I never thought I’d actually want them out. And at the same time, I never want them to leave. I question my parenting skills and choices, I then question my professional self because I have a deep understanding of child development and human behavior. I feel the challenges of being a good role model for adapting to change and dealing with stress when I’m trying to adapt and deal.
I have to trust that I’ve given my kids the love and guidance they need to survive with us and on their own, pandemic or not. This story is not yet over, but of course, I’m hoping for a real happy ending. Life as a parent certainly isn’t ‘a walk in the park.’
Lora Heller is a music therapist, Deaf educator, and author of several sign language books for kids. She has also written for music therapy professional publications and national parenting magazines and is the on-line expert for various parenting programs including ParentsTV.com baby sign language videoseries. Lora founded Baby Fingers in 2000. www.mybabyfingers.com
