ML Interest Tag: hygiene

The Best Baby Bath Toys, According to Amazon Parents

by Kate Cartia

Who knows which baby bath toys are the best better than other parents (who have actually used them)?

Bathtime is one of our favorite times to bond with our little ones. It’s usually at the end of the day, after dinner adventures and before bed, so it’s just the kind of wind-down we and our kiddos need. Warm water, bubbles, and splashing (sometimes lots of splashing)—what more could you ask for? Oh, and as a bonus, it’s the perfect time for playing. Which of course means we’re on the hunt for the best baby bath toys.

Bath toys are especially fun because they offer littles a chance to experience different textures and ways to play. Plus, gone are the days of only rubber ducks and boats (though we love those!); there are so many awesome toys to choose from, specifically designed for the bath. But you don’t have to take our word for it! These are the top Amazon toys, according to reviewers. Sure, there are rubber duckies and boats, but there’s also blocks, and balls, and baby bath squirt toys, so you’re sure to find something (or somethings) that’s perfect for your little babes. We’ve got the baby bath toys parents are loving right here!

Duck Tubing Floating Bath Toys

Three connecting tubes, three rubber ducks, and a mold-free design! These ducks are ready to play.

Amazon Review:  I wanted some floating bath ducks that weren't “squirters” so that they wouldn’t mold. These are a nice size (bigger than expected), good quality, and super cute! My girls love to also put other bath toys on the “duck train”. -BrookeMarie

Duck Tubing Floating Bath Toys ($18.99)—Buy Now

KaledioCubes Stack & Squeeze Blocks

This 9-pack of blocks are brightly colored and covered with letters and numbers, so they'll grow with your babes!

Amazon Review: After screening numerous baby block listings (many of which claim to be hole/mold-free but are not), I was thrilled to finally discover a truly hole-free set. I have cleaned these blocks in the dishwasher (top rack) several times, so far without issue. I look forward to using them as bath toys and not having to worry about mold growth. -K.Cox

KaledioCubes Stack & Squeeze Blocks ($10.99)—Buy Now

Green Toys Paddle Boat and Tugboat Combo

Boats are a classic bath toy, and this set from Green Toys have little pour spouts and don't have any BPA!

Amazon Review: As always green toys remains one of our favorites. They're great size and usually bigger than expected. They're made of recycled materials which is another plus and I can't say enough about the durability of these toys. They can get tossed around and still look great. The paddles on the boat really move and there's a spout on them both that you can pour water out of. -Tiffany Sprouse

Green Toys Paddle Boat and Tugboat Combo ($27.99)—Buy Now

Munchkin Bath Numbers & Letters

36 floating letters and numbers in bright, kid-friendly colors!

Amazon Review: My 18 month old loves these, the first set I bought, he had thrown them all over the house and I couldn't find most of them lol, I bought a 2nd set and keep it in with his bath toys. These suction really well to my tile bath wall. When he bites on them, they do leave teeth marks that will not come out. Also the set only includes 1 of each letter and number so spelling anything isn't really possible if you need more than 1 of the same letter lol. All in all, these are decent for the price. They are pretty sturdy and haven't ripped, so you don't have to worry about you kid boring a chunk out of one. -Brandie L.

Munchkin Bath Numbers & Letters ($5.95)—Buy Now

Munchkin Float & Play Bubbles

This set includes 2 fun ocean friends and two twirly rattles. The characters move freely around the bubbles, and the textured rings float!

Amazon Review: So I’m a stickler for bath toys without holes in them. I didn’t know so well for my first child who is now almost 13….. but I learned over time with my others. I bought these for my 8 month old as he’s into little noises and things for bath since he’s sitting up. When I got these they didn’t even make it into the bath for the first few weeks, he sat playing with them on the floor with his toys and loved them as is! They are perfect size, the rattle noise inside isn’t loud and obnoxious it’s actually kind of a lull soothing noise, the objects inside keep him entertained even still. Now that they’ve been in the bath, they haven’t leaked any water in, they float well and are fun! Happy I bought these. -Erica Mara

Munchkin Float & Play Bubbles ($9.39)—Buy Now

Munchkin Ocean Squirts Bath Toys

8 water-squirting friends that are easy for little ones grasp!

Amazon Review: So cute and my daughter plays with them continuously! -Tyler Goulding

Munchkin Ocean Squirts Bath Toys ($10.49)—Buy Now

 

Munchkin Bath Bobbers

Lightweight penguin and polar bear bath bobbers are great for both babies and toddlers!

Amazon Review: These bobbers are so fun for bath time! Float perfectly and sometime my 7 month old can easily grab. -Hannah Martin

Munchkin Bath Bobbers ($7.39)—Buy Now

Green Toys Ferry Boat

This set includes mini cars for loading and unloading, plus it's made from recycled plastic!

Amazon Review: Only 13 months old and what a great way to keep him busy in the tub! -Kim

Green Toys Ferry Boat ($16.15)—Buy Now

 

Munchkin Arctic Polar Bear

He's going fishing and your little one can help! The floating polar bear holds 4 fish rings on each leg.

Amazon Review: This is larger than I thought it would be, in a good way! It’s very durable and the rings are large enough to not be a choking hazard for smaller children. I love that water can’t get into the toy and mold. I wasn’t going to review this, but it impressed me! -108

Munchkin Arctic Polar Bear ($9.39)—Buy Now

Blue's Clues Bath Squirters

The gang's all here! Blue, Magenta, and Slippery Soap are ready for bathtime.

Amazon Review: They don’t hold water so no stress about mold!! They are great bath toys! -Corey Diesz

Blue's Clues Bath Squirters ($14.99)—Buy Now

Cloud & Droplet Silicon Bath Toys

You can open and close these cute toys for easy cleaning, plus they're ergonomically designed for little baby hands!

Amazon Review: I purchased these in a high-end shop while on withy husband. I was pumped to find the exact same product on Amazon and purchased a second set. My kids LOVE taking a warm "tub" nightly. So, these are used daily. We are going on a year and we have not had any problems with mold. I love that they are dishwasher safe. I throw them in the dishwasher once a month or so (I have always done this with bath toys). Honestly, I bet I could go longer, they never look or smell dirty. We did have one go missing and found it a few months later sitting in some standing water left in the pool out back, that did mold. So, unless you're not planning on draining your tub at all ever you should have nothing to worry about. This is a wonderful bath toy! -Huntington

Dive Gems Toys

This 12-piece set is colorful and smooth, plus older kids will love them for the pool!

Amazon Review: I ordered these for my daughter when she was 6 months old . My daughter is currently going on 18 months she still loves them ! We use them for bath, at the beach, & pool. -Alyssa Miranda

Dive Gems Toys ($12.95)—Buy Now

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

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11 Ways to Celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in Los Angeles

by Jennifer O'Brien

On Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, discover MLK events, celebrations, and local volunteering opportunities for you and your kids around LA

Each year, on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Americans unite to honor his legacy and tireless work as a champion of civil rights. So when is Martin Luther King Day? MLK Day takes place the third Monday in January each year. Fun fact: King’s actual birthday is January 15 (he was born in 1929). In addition to celebrating King’s legacy, this holiday has also become a National Day of Service—encouraging Americans to volunteer and do good in their communities. So whether you want to celebrate MLK at a parade or spend the day giving back to others, here are all the things to do on MLK Day in Los Angeles.

How to Celebrate MLK Day in Los Angeles

1. Long Beach Martin Luther King Jr. Parade and Celebration

Jan. 14: This beloved event returns for its 35th year to celebrate Rev. Dr. King and the diverse community of Central Long Beach. Festivities kick off at 10 a.m. at the intersection of Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. and Anaheim St., followed by the park celebration from noon-5 p.m. at Martin Luther King Jr. Park. The park celebration will include a main stage with live performances, a health and wellness area, youth area, and tons of food and vendors.
Martin Luther King Jr. Park
1950 Lemon Ave.
Los Angeles
Online: longbeach.gov

2. Santa Monica Symphony MLK Holiday Concert

Jan. 14: In partnership with the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Westside Coalition, the Santa Monica Symphony honors the legacy of Rev. Dr. King with its annual MLK concert conducted by Gary Pratt. The concert opens with Coleridge-Taylor’s Danse Negre and Price’s rousing Symphony No. 1 and concludes with Gershwin’s iconic Rhapsody in Blue with Jason Stoll on piano. The event is free, but pre-registration is required. Doors open at 2 p.m. with the performance running from 3 p.m.-5 p.m.

John Adams Middle School Performing Arts Center
1630 Pearl St.
Santa Monica
Online: smsymphony.org

3. Minecraft March on Washington (Virtual Event)

Jan. 14 & 16: As part of LA Works MLK Day of Service, this virtual event builds upon the anti-racism movement through an interactive march on Washington in Minecraft and an in-person event at LA Memorial Coliseum. Tour a virtual exhibit of the 1963 March on Washington and interact with civil rights leaders like Rev. Dr. King himself. The event takes place from noon- 9 p.m. on Jan. 14 and 10 a.m.-9 p.m. on Jan. 16. Advance registration is required and closes at 5 p.m. on Jan. 11. Once you register, LA Works will email a link to attend the event. Access to Minecraft (Java or Bedrock edition) is required. Event details.

4. LA Works Martin Luther King Day of Service at LA Memorial Coliseum

Jan. 16: In 1964, Rev. Dr. King passionately addressed 15,000 Angelenos at LA Memorial Coliseum on the issues of race relations and human dignity. This year, LA Works continues Rev. Dr. King’s legacy by empowering LA volunteers to fight for food and climate justice. The day of service schedule starts off at noon-1 p.m. where volunteers will sample vegan food at booths hosted by local restaurants and learn about local activity to combat climate change. From 1:15 p.m.-1:30 p.m., there will be a keynote speaker, and from 1:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m., volunteers will rotate through eco-action stations, including creating urban greening kits, assembling disaster preparedness materials, and making a climate action pledge. There will also be a family zone with volunteer activities designed with kids in mind. Register online to volunteer.

LA Memorial Coliseum
3911 S Figueroa St.
Los Angeles
Online: laworks.com/mlk

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7Wz4qalnkP/?hidecaption=true

5. King Day at California African American Museum

Jan. 16: From 10 a.m.-5 p.m., on Jan. 16, CAAM celebrates Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a day of festivities. This year’s theme of “MLK: A Legacy of Service” will include a performance by the Inner-City Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles, the King Study Group, and family activities provided by the LA Public Library. Admission is free, but attendees are asked to RSVP to the event ahead of time.

CAAM
600 State St.
Los Angeles
Online: caamuseum.org

6. Kingdom Day Parade

Jan. 16: Known as America’s biggest and oldest birthday celebration of MLK, the 38th Annual Kingdom Day Parade features this year’s theme of “America, The Last Best Hope of the World.” If you are wondering what time does the MLK parade start in Los Angeles? The parade takes place at 11 a.m. and provides a festive, family-friendly opportunity for the LA community to gather and celebrate the life of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. With over 250,000 spectators expected to line the parade route filled with floats, marching bands, and tons of fun, this is must-do event. It will also be broadcast on TV at 11 a.m. on ABC-7.

Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Los Angeles
Online: kingdomdayparade.org

7. A Walk to Remember MLK in Redondo Beach

Jan. 16: Join fellow community members in a Day of Service by walking to honor the life of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The walk begins at 101 W. Torrance Blvd. in Redondo Beach and ends at the MLK Jr. memorial located in front of the Redondo Beach Police Department. While the walk is free, event organizers ask all participants to bring a child or adult/teen kit filled with necessities (see website for specific needs) to donate at the event or any time prior to that at the RBPD. All kits will go to the RBPD Domestic Violence Advocacy Program. Attendees should meet at the Pier Sub-Station at 10:00 a.m.

Redondo Beach Pier Sub-Station
101 W. Torrance Blvd.
Redondo Beach
Online: eventbrite.com

https://www.instagram.com/p/CJrq8pEsHsW/?hidecaption=true

8. Big Sunday MLK Clothing Drive and Community Breakfast

Jan. 16: Big Sunday is hosting their 11th Annual MLK Day Clothing Drive and Community Breakfast on Jan. 16 from 10 a.m.—1 p.m. at 24th St. Elementary School. This big block party will feature a community breakfast, arts and crafts projects to benefit local nonprofits, entertainment from the Blue Breeze Band, a Civil Rights Exhibit, and Big Sunday’s Something in Common project. They will also be putting together 2,023 winter clothing kits for folks who are struggling. They are happy to accept donations of any new clothing or shoes, or you can sponsor a new clothing bag for $25. All ages are welcome!

24th St. Elementary School
2055 W. 24th St.
Los Angeles
Online: bigsunday.org

9. Leadership Long Beach MLK Day of Service

Jan. 16: For 13 years, Leadership Long Beach has coordinated the largest MLK Day of Service in LA County, bringing together thousands of volunteers to complete dozens of community service projects. If you have a project idea, Leadership Long Beach welcomes suggestions on their website. All service projects must be completed between 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. on Jan. 16 and be easy enough that volunteers can quickly jump in to make a difference. Projects must be completed within the cities of Long Beach or Signal Hill and have a dedicated leader who will guide and supervise volunteers to complete the work.

Online: leadershiplb.org

10. National Park System Free Entrance Day in Honor of MLK

Jan. 16: In honor of MLK’s birthday, National Park service sites will waive entrance fees for everyone on Jan. 16. Many national parks also host a variety of service projects that people can sign up for as volunteers, so be sure to check the park’s website for any opportunities.

Online: nps.gov

Related: Our Favorite National Parks within Driving Distance of DTLA

11. Martin Luther King Jr. Walk-A-Thon

Jan. 16: Join the African American Historical Society for a Walk-A-Thon in honor of MLK. This year’s theme is “A Legacy of Strength, a Future of Action.” The 5K walk starts at the Stratton Center and ends at the Main Library Breezeway across from the Civil Rights Institute with a stop at the Martin Luther King Jr. statue along the way. Early registrants have an opportunity to receive one of a limited number of commemorative coins to celebrate the grand opening of the Civil Rights Institute, as well as a family pack of tickets to an Ontario Clippers game at Toyota Arena. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. at Stratton Center and the walk begins at 10 a.m. Afterwards, there will be booths, entertainment, and performances. Proceeds from the Walk-A-Thon will benefit the Riverside African American Historical Society’s initiatives. Online registration prior to the event is encouraged, but on-site registration will available too. Tickets are $35 for participants ages 13 and up and include a t-shirt.

Stratton Center at Bordwell Park
2008 Martin Luther King Blvd.
Riverside
Online: raahsinc.org

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Survey Says: Kids Are Cleaning More Than Ever

by Erica Loop

Are your kiddos helping out around the house more than ever? It’s no secret that the pandemic put most families into hyper-drive when it comes to overall cleanliness. Now there’s data to back up what you’ve suspected over the past year-plus.

According to a recent survey conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of SC Johnson, more than half of Americans believe the pandemic has had a positive effect on their cleaning habits. Beyond that, the data shows families are cleaning together more than they were in the pre-pandemic days.

photo: Burst via Pexels

The survey, conducted between Feb. 10, 2021 and Feb. 16, 2021, included 2,000 adult participants aged 18 and up. The findings show Americans are now spending more time than ever cleaning their homes, which equates to an average of six hours weekly!

Alan VanderMolen, Senior Vice President and Chief Communications Officer at SC Johnson, said in a press release, “At SC Johnson, our goal is to create a healthier world by educating and enabling people on cleaning and hygiene so that they can respond to this pandemic and future public health threats.” VanderMolen added, “We are encouraged to see families are working together to improve and maintain their cleaning habits because healthier homes create healthier communities and a better world.”

Not only are they spending more time cleaning, American adults are also more satisfied with the cleanliness of their home. The poll shows a whopping nine out of 10 of people surveyed feel their efforts have paid off in cleanliness.

When it comes to kids and cleaning, 44 percent of parents say their kiddos help more to clean now than they did before the pandemic. Seventy-one percent of these parents also expect their children to keep up the cleaning efforts from now on!

—Erica Loop

 

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This Cool New Technology Makes Brushing Fun!

by Jamie Aderski
Partner Content

You made it through the school day, dinner, baths, and now it’s time…to brush! AHHHHHH! Getting kids to brush their teeth can be a nightmare, but it doesn’t have to be. While kids may not love brushing their teeth, there is no doubt they love games. That is why we love Colgate’s hum Kids toothbrush and its partner app that turns oral hygiene into an irresistible augmented reality game. Read on to learn more so your family can brush on while you keep calm.

 

For a limited time only, use code rthumkids for 20% off your hum Kids purchase!

What Is hum?

Designed for ages 5-10, hum Kids is a refillable manual toothbrush that, through the magic of its free partner app, turns the mundane routine of toothbrushing into cool games via creative and colorful augmented reality. Kids will be pumped to brush and play, defeating “cavity monsters” by brushing them away as they hop around teeth—now they’re hitting all the brushing zones that make for a healthy mouth! (And you’ll be pumped to see them excited about brushing their teeth.)

Good brushing habits mean collecting points and unlocking cool filters and masks that keep them coming back for more. Top secret: With the help of the app, your kid is actually learning how to be an excellent brusher (less money at the dentist for you!), and you can keep track of their progress in the parental dashboard—genius! It even tells you which spots they need to focus on and how to help them improve their brushing.

Everything about hum Kids was made to be kid-friendly, from the bright colors (it comes in yellow and coral) to the thumb grip made specifically for little hands!

For a limited time only, use code rthumkids for 20% off your hum Kids purchase!

What We Love About It

Technology like no other: Never before has brushing been educational through smart AI and fun! No more fights, no more dreaded bedtime struggle. Not only does hum Kids take that stress away, but you can also be confident that your kids are learning a crucial life skill that will keep them healthy throughout their lives—what toothbrush could ever say that before?! Utilizing interactive technology, accessed easily from your smartphone or tablet, your family can now enjoy “Fun Now. Better Brushing Forever.” We couldn’t have put it better ourselves!

 

For a limited time only, use code rthumkids for 20% off your hum purchase!

 

 

—Jamie Aderski

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Sesame Street Wants to Teach Your Kids About Self-Care

by Erica Loop

Sesame Workshop and SC Johnson recently collaborated to create a new line of videos promoting healthy practices at home—in an eco-friendly way!

As part of Sesame Workshop’s Caring for Each Other initiative, the videos star Elmo and his father Louie. The pair models healthy routines your kiddo may need to follow for sick days, bedtime and bath-time.

photo courtesy of PR Newsfoto/SC Johnson

Not only will the videos help children learn about basic hygiene practices, the educational Elmo-packed clips will also focus on and promote sustainable practices. Fisk Johnson, Chairman and CEO of SC Johnson, said in a press release, “It’s important that we all work together to help children respond to challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Johnson continued, “Our goal is to combine our expertise in science and innovation with Sesame Workshop’s decades of experience in educating and connecting with children so we can equip them with the skills needed to lead healthier and more environmentally conscious lives.”

Steve Youngwood, CEO of Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit educational organization behind Sesame Street, said of the collab with SC Johnson, “Sesame Workshop is proud to work with SC Johnson to help families stay healthy, connected, and full of curiosity—with a little help from the Sesame Street Muppets.” Youngwood added, “Together, we can give children the skills they need to thrive and navigate whatever comes next in 2021 and beyond.”

For more information on the new videos or the Caring for Each Other initiative, visit Sesame Workshop’s website here.

—Erica Loop

 

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Cooking with Kids: An Age-by-Age Guide

By Peggy Brusseau

kids cooking kitchen

As parents, we want our children to be happy and confident. We hope they will grow into the sort of adults we would like to know: able to look after themselves, social and successful in at least one role. Knowing how to prepare one’s own meals is a fundamental aspect of being an adult. Beyond just opening packets, the ability to select fresh food and combine it in a tasty and appealing way is a true life-skill.

It makes sense to introduce this skill to children early in their lives. The ability to prepare nutritious and sustaining food is an especially precious possession. And now, even more so, knowing that plant-based diets are thought to provide ‘primordial prevention’ against the serious chronic diseases of our time, puts the potential for good health firmly in the cook’s hands.

Even very young children can participate in the preparation of family meals. It’s a chance to connect with real food ingredients and to recognize qualities that will help children make healthy and compassionate choices, later. They will develop skills and talents to use throughout life. Everyone appreciates a good meal…and the cook who made it!

In fact, children usually love being in the kitchen. Cooking is creative and fun. Eating is social and delicious. It’s all good news!

Most of us parents have to ‘re-wire’ our attitudes and habits, though. Because cooking beside kids is a party! Yes, there are safety issues. Sure, a few hygiene practices need explaining. But when else in your life are you going to see your five-year-old kneading bread dough; your tweenie inventing sandwiches that include mashed potato; your teen using the wooden spoons to practice a drum riff on your mixing bowl—at the same time as whipping up a stunning lentil soup?

Kids in the kitchen offers a chance to put the joy back into meal making. Don that funny apron you were ‘too cool’ to wear a year ago. Serve the dessert first for an ‘upside-down’ dinner. Breakfast can be candle-lit; ambient music can be heavy metal.

If you are worried about safety, the mess, or a shortage of time, take a moment to consider the options: banning children from the kitchen will keep them in unskilled ignorance until young adulthood or beyond. Share meal prep with them now, and they are likely to gain skills, grow in confidence and probably delight you with wonderful conversation and photo opportunities.

If you say ‘Yes!’ to kids in the kitchen, here are simple tips to help you get started:

Safety: Give your child a qualification! The role of Safety Officer gives them the power to correct you if you break one of the Safety Rules. You’ll have to agree on the Rules; but the young officer learns to value and pay attention to details of safety, which they are then unlikely ever to forget.

Mess: Have plenty of floor cloths and hand towels at the ready and make sure everyone knows which is which. Offer aprons. Sweep up before you trip up. Do the washing up while you sing or play word games. Most of all, relax. This is a phase that won’t last forever.

Time: Yes, it does take more time; but it’s an investment in your child. You can schedule long sessions for the weekend; on other days, share simple tasks that suit their age. Try not to watch the clock; a non-pressured atmosphere is best.

3-6-year-olds: Water play comes into its own! Stand them at the sink and let them scrub vegetables, wash berries, or measure liquids. On dry land, let them try kneading and stirring.

7-10-year-olds: Children of this age are natural experimenters. Let them make a spice mixture, concoct a new spread, or design a smoothie. When they are ready, encourage them to write a recipe!

11-13-year-olds: The age of expertise. Theirs might be the difference between black, pink and white peppers, but it still denotes enthusiasm! Putting safety first, let them learn the same kitchen skills you have. Sharp knives, blenders, hotplates and open flame are facts of life and, with your unobtrusive guidance, these young people can deal with them very well.

14-16-year-olds: At this age, they can ‘take over’ or successfully deal with your phone call asking ‘Please, can you make dinner tonight?’ But, they still need to feel looked after, so don’t make that call too often!

16 plus: Going solo is just around the corner. Encourage them to develop a wide repertoire of dishes to set them up, for good!

You: Become assistant to your child: help only when necessary, preferably only when asked. Enjoy!

Peggy Brusseau has written or co-written some 24 books, many of them major bestsellers. Her recently published book, The Contented Vegan: recipes and philosophy from a family kitchen, is a guide to the fastest-growing lifest‌yle of the 21st century. Peggy lives in London with her husband and sons.

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How to Make Handwashing More Fun

By Britannica For Parents

Photo: © Marilyn Nieves—E+/Getty Images

Back in March, when we were all first learning how to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, experts encouraged us to wash our hands often and thoroughly. The popular measure of each handwashing session was singing the ”Happy Birthday” song, twice. Months later, how many of us are still singing and counting as we wash?

We may be growing weary of COVID routines, yet as parents and caregivers of young children, we’re still responsible for teaching our little ones to wash their hands and follow good hygiene practices. It’s time to shake things up and find some new ways to make handwashing fun and educational.

Mix Up the Music!

You can sing the “Happy Birthday” song in about 10 seconds. When you sing it twice, you’re sure to reach the recommended 20 seconds of handwashing. But of course there are other songs children can sing as they wash. “The ABC song,” for example, takes a bit longer than 20 seconds, but is still an excellent choice for preschoolers.

How about one of these?

  • “Itsy Bitsy Spider” (20 seconds)
  • “If You’re Happy and You Know It (Wash Your Hands)” (20 seconds)
  • “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” (28 seconds)
  • “Old MacDonald Had a Farm” (26 seconds per verse)
  • “The Wheels on the Bus” (15 seconds per verse)
  • “Baby Shark” (5 seconds per verse)
  • “BINGO” (16 seconds per verse)
  • “London Bridge Is Falling Down” (12 seconds per verse)

Or check out this awesome handwashing song from The Wiggles!

Try New Soap!

The novelty of a new type of soap can be enough to add some zing to your child’s handwashing routine. Your child may enjoy foaming soap, colored soap, soap that comes in fun shapes, or soap with a special scent. If spending money on fancy soap is not for you, maybe you have some little hotel soaps or soap samples you can let your child use for handwashing.

Pretend & Play at the Sink

Does your child have a plastic doll or animal toy that won’t be damaged by water? Ask your child to teach their toy how to wash their hands or paws. Your child will likely enjoy the opportunity to be the boss. And their own hands will get clean in the process!

Learning the Letters W – A – S – H

If your family needs some reminders to wash their hands, ask your child to help make some signs to place near the sink or by the front door, and they’ll learn their letters at the same time. The sign might be a simple reminder, such as “Have you washed your hands?” Or try a more elaborate project, such as a poster with instructions and diagrams. Your child may also enjoy making a chart or graph to record how many times family members wash. Use stickers or checkmarks and help your child count up the total at the end of each day.

Science Experiments

Aspiring scientists may enjoy using a magnifying glass at the sink to study their hands before, during, and after each wash. Make sure there’s enough light to see the texture of the skin, the shine of the soap bubbles, and the slick surface of the water.

Adding fun and educational activities to your child’s handwashing routine may mean allowing for more time at the sink, but the benefits include cleaner hands and wiser minds.

Sources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “When and How to Wash Your Hands,” 2020 UNICEF, “Everything You Need to Know about Washing Your Hands to Protect Against Coronavirus (COVID-19),” 2020

Learn More

BrainPOP, “Washing Hands Activities for Kids,” [n.d.] Gordon, Beth, “20 Ideas for Making Hand Washing for Kids FUN!” 2020

Britannica For Parents
Tinybeans Voices Contributor

We’re living in a time when it’s nearly impossible to distinguish fact from fiction. Parents need information they trust to help them make good decisions about raising their curious learners. Britannica for Parents provides safe and credible resources to empower all kids and parents and inspire curiosity for generations to come.

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American Dream Announces Reopening Date

by Jennifer Swartvagher

New Jersey’s American Dream is set to reopen following Governor Murphy’s recent announcement. Guests are invited to visit the acclaimed indoor entertainment experiences including Nickelodeon Universe, DreamWorks Water Park, Out Of This World Blacklight Mini Golf and The Rink beginning Oct. 1. Retailers will also be opening at American Dream for the first time, including ZARA, H&M, Primark and more.

Nickelodeon Universe at American Dream

To ensure the safety of guests, reduced attendance levels and extensive health and safety protocols will be observed by all attractions and retailers.

A few things guests can expect upon their return to American Dream include, but are not limited to:

  • Face coverings required for entry into American dream
  • Reduced capacities throughout American Dream and within each of the open attractions
  • Increased sanitizing and disinfecting throughout American Dream common areas and attractions 
  • Hand sanitizer stations and hygiene reminders installed throughout American Dream and within the attractions
  • Physical distancing guidance, including ground markings, plexiglass barriers, touchless programming and more.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

Featured photo: American Dream

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How to Manage Family Conflict during COVID

By Erin Wiley

Let’s play a little Jeopardy, shall we? The answer, for $500: “Being cooped up for six months with no social gatherings, wearing masks everywhere we go, working from home but still losing income, terrifying nightly news reports every day of the week, and confusing opinions about how school should look this fall”. Ding! “What are some of the situations that are leading to greater conflict in our families during COVID, Alex?” Correct! $500 pretend dollars for the exhausted-looking person reading this article!

Chances are you know exactly what I’m talking about. Not only is there still great fear about the virus in general, but people are on edge about the economy, our jobs, our kids’ schooling, loneliness and disconnection in our extended families and communities, and more. And this viral crisis shows no signs of ending anytime soon. As a therapist, I can tell you it’s leading to heightened conflict in homes across America. How do we better manage the stress, frustration, anger, and disappointment so that we can keep distress in our families to a minimum? Here are five top tips for handling conflict during COVID. 

1. Listen: When you are not in agreement with someone important to you, listen to and validate the other person’s point of view. This is the best first step. It’s disarming for people when they feel truly heard, especially when two people have very different beliefs or feelings on an issue. You don’t have to agree with someone to reiterate their point back to them in an attempt to show you are listening and you understand where they are coming from. Start here.

2. Try and find common ground: Emphasize anything that is similar or that you can agree upon. This can lead to a faster resolution and better compromise. You maybe want something done differently or at a different pace, but usually what we all want in the end is similar: peace, order, harmony, progress, healing, chocolate, and naps. Look for areas where you can reach an agreement.

3. Let it go: Sometimes it isn’t worth the fight. Remember: people do not have to agree. Ultimately we need to learn to let go of control of others. We should seek to be kind and respectful above being right/winning. Not every fight is one you can let slide… but perhaps you can change your tone or approach in a disagreement to lower the level of conflict with people you love.

4. Become a proficient apologizer: When you do mess up and things get heated or you’ve been unkind, don’t hesitate to apologize. When you ask for forgiveness for your behavior or words, all it means is that you are acknowledging that you did something hurtful, not that you are a bad or weak person. The healthiest people apologize easily (it takes lots of practice to get there) because they see nothing wrong with admitting they may have done something hurtful to someone else. An “I’m sorry” can go a long way in times of conflict, and it’s a great example to set for others around us who may struggle with this basic relationship skill. Be generous with repair attempts. It ultimately will pave the way for greater peace in our most important relationships. 

5. Practice self-care: Work on emotional management and de-stressing outside of times of conflict. Find ways to process your emotions and create healthy outlets for your stress. Take care of yourself physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually so that you can be as balanced as possible when conflict does arise. Work on healthy food choices for optimal health, improve sleep hygiene and routine, and move your body with a simple exercise like walking. Get outside. Play with your pet. Find a few minutes alone each day. Meditate, journal, or create a spiritual practice. Recognize when you need a break from other people, and make it happen. Go for a drive. Sit in the sun for a few minutes. Even a few minutes of self-care daily can help us create the internal peace we need to stay calm when conflict does arise. 

Most of all, cut yourself and others around you some slack. This is unprecedented. People are struggling. This is hard. There is great uncertainty. We are all just taking it day by day. In times as stressful as this, we know that incidents of conflict are going to rise—it’s inevitable. We can’t change that fact, but we can be prepared with strategies like the ones suggested above to help smooth over the struggles brought upon by the unprecedented difficulties we are all living through at this time. We can do this, Friends. For our families, and with our families, we can do this.

Erin Wiley, MA, LPC, LPCC, is a clinical psychotherapist and the Executive Director of The Willow Center, a counseling practice in Toledo, Ohio. The clinical focus of her therapy work is marriage, family, parenting, and relationships. She has extensive training in marriage counseling from the Gottman Institute. 

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Believing in the Tooth Fairy Is Good For Your Little One’s Oral Health

by Jennifer Swartvagher

How does your family celebrate a lost tooth? Placing your little one’s tooth under their pillow to wait for a visit from the Tooth Fairy cam help promote good oral hygiene. This National Tooth Fairy Day, Delta Dental reminds families of the role the Tooth Fairy can play in teaching children about oral health.

tooth fairy

A new survey from Delta Dental reveals that 80% of households with children receive visits from the Tooth Fairy, and these visits are motivated by a desire to give children something to be excited about, according to more than half of caregivers polled. In addition, 45% of caregivers report that having the Tooth Fairy visit gives them a reason to celebrate and 42% said it makes their child feel special.

Beyond celebrating a lost tooth, a visit from the Tooth Fairy instills good oral health habits in a positive way according to one third of respondents. Delta Dental has created a trove of oral health education materials centered on the Tooth Fairy. We encourage families to enjoy the resources, activities, and games together to learn more about oral health. 

Tooth Fairy Poll

According to the Original Tooth Fairy Poll, the Tooth Fairy’s average cash gift increased 30 cents for a lost tooth, for a total of $4.03 per tooth.

Delta Dental has been analyzing the Tooth Fairy’s U.S. annual giving trends since 1998. The newly disclosed value of a lost tooth has more than tripled since its inception when the value of a lost tooth was $1.30, and now reaches its fourth highest payout in the history of the survey.

The Original Tooth Fairy Poll has typically mirrored the economy’s overall direction, tracking with the trends of Standard & Poor’s 500 Index (S&P 500) for 15 of the past 18 years. Last year, a single lost tooth was valued at $3.70 and this year’s survey shows upward growth to $4.03, an increase of nearly 9%. Over the same time period, the S&P 500 also experienced growth, with a 22% increase, reaching its highest average since the inception of the Original Tooth Fairy survey.

“The Tooth Fairy is one of health care’s most powerful tools for teaching children about their oral health,” said Jennifer Elliott, Chief Marketing Officer, Delta Dental Plans Association. “By celebrating a lost tooth, children begin to learn the importance of their oral health in an engaging and fun way. At Delta Dental, we continue to provide tools for parents, families and communities to educate young Americans about the importance of their oral health and our 22nd year of this survey shows our dedication to keeping the Tooth Fairy an active part of oral health education.”

The Original Tooth Fairy Poll was conducted between December 30, 2019, and January 11, 2020, among a nationally representative sample of 1,000 parents of children ages 6-12.

For more information about the Delta Dental-sponsored survey and oral health tips for infants to pre-teen, visit Original Tooth Fairy Poll.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

All photos courtesy of Delta Dental

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