The other night was “wine night” for a few moms in my neighborhood. We do this every couple of months when we get together for our “PTO meeting” where we stay out too late, pour one too many, and hit the alarm clock more than we should the next morning. The most recent one was last week. I desperately needed a glass of wine and some girl talk, but having a five-week old baby meant that I also desperately need sleep.

Wine or sleep? Wine or sleep? (The struggle is real!)

Then the voice of a good friend came through with some words of wisdom, a piece of mom advice that I always refer back to when I’m stuck in a situation where I really want to do something, but question whether I can fit it all in.

Let me tell you this is one of the best pieces of parenting advice that I ever received. It’s simple. It’s easy. It’s a no-brainer. But for some reason, it’s something that I always had a hard time implementing until recently. Ready for it?!

Say no to things that you may really want to do if it will make your life easier.

Sounds easy, right? Who doesn’t want to make their life easier? I mean we’re told in the workforce to say no all the time. It’ll help advance your career path. It’ll lighten your load. Heck, we say no to our kids all the time! Recently I have even seen books on why it is healthy to say no. But for my type A personality I always feel like I can figure out a way to make it all happen all the while stressing myself in the process—its just my personality. For better or worse I am a people pleaser which makes exercising this “rule” pretty hard at times. It’s hard to turn down things that you or someone in your family really want to do (like go drink some wine down the street).

Truth be told, putting it into action has literally saved me time and sanity. Let me give you some examples…

That birthday party for your kid’s classmate that starts at 7:30 pm when your kid goes to bed at 8 pm. Say no. When you’re invited to somebody’s house for a weekend get-together and you already have two other things to do right before then, say no. When school asks for you to help with volunteering for the next event but you’re not sure you can pick up your other kids and make it there in time, say no. When you get invited to Adele’s concert but you’re not feeling well and coming off a work trip, say no. When you want to catch some zzz’s even though you want some gal time, go for the sleep!

I found that there is always another time for these events, invitations, volunteering, etc. There will always be more birthday parties, get togethers, school fundraisers, and even concerts to attend. Your sanity, health, and time are more important! So do as we teach our kids when it comes to drugs—JUST SAY NO! You’ll thank me for it.

Erin is a working mom of two exploring ways to embrace change and find new hobbies in her search for life outside of Corporate America. She lives in Bucks County Pennsylvania with her husband, two kids, and Boston Terrier. She also loves ice cream and chocolate. A lot.

Families are so spread out these days that many of us have to get by with a little help from our friends—and our apps (it is the 21st century, after all). But with so. many. options out there it’s hard to know which are the best apps for moms and dads to help make our lives a little easier.

For new parents bringing home their first baby, it’s wildly overwhelming to know how to track feeding schedules, diaper changes, sleep schedules, and milestones (that notebook you were using at the hospital isn’t going to cut it—something I learned at our first pediatrician’s appointment when I couldn’t read my own exhausted handwriting). As your baby gets older, you’ll need to know where all the good playgrounds are, how to create the cutest photo books, and somehow find play inspo for your kid’s ever-changing age and stage. And let’s not forget that moms need to find mom friends to add to their village; there’s an app for that, too.

They say necessity is the mother of invention, and this list proves it. Here are 10 family apps that parents are using right now to make their lives easier.

Sharing photos and making baby books: Tinybeans

Tinybeans photo sharing app is one of the best apps for moms
Tinybeans

Some families have cities, countries, or even oceans between them and it’s a struggle to stay connected. If you’re looking for a secure way to share photos and videos of your littles with family and friends, look no further than, well, us! Not only does Tinybeans let you capture and share memories without any of the safety concerns of social media, but it’s also a handy milestone tracker and source of parental ideas and inspiration. You can grab your best posts and easily create beautiful photo books directly through the app. And don’t worry, Tinybeans prompts you to post if you aren’t a natural sharer, so we’ll keep those eager relatives off your back.

Cost: Free or paid (Tinybeans+: $74.99 per year or $7.99 per month) on Apple App Store and Google Play

Baby milestone tracking: The Wonder Weeks

Screenshots of the Wonder Weeks, one of the best apps for moms
The Wonder Weeks

Wondering why your happy babe is unusually grumpy or has suddenly become a stage-5 clinger? Enter The Wonder Weeks app, based on the popular book by the same name. What your baby is probably experiencing is called a “leap”—a period of rapid developmental gains that can throw your little one for a loop (there are 8 of these in baby’s first year). The Wonder Weeks app gives you peace of mind and information on how to best support your kid during these developmental leaps. All you have to do is tell the app your child’s birthday, and you’ll receive alerts prior to each leap and advice on how to handle them.

Cost: $5.99 on Apple App Store and $6.49 on Google Play

Feeding: Solid Starts

Screenshots of Solid Starts, one of the best apps for moms
Solid Starts

Starting solids is a game changer—a new activity to add to your routine, those adorable scrunched-up faces when baby tries new foods, and getting to drop a few of those breast or bottle feeds (bless!). But there are also so many questions when it comes to nutrition, safety, and which foods your baby should have based on their age. Solid Starts makes this entire process much easier for parents who are interested in baby-led weaning, putting everything you need to know about starting solids right at your fingertips. This includes information about more than 200 foods, including how to prepare them based on age and which are potential allergens, which you can access in the free version. If you pay, you can also keep a food log that records your baby’s progress, make lists, document reactions and sensitivities, and access a searchable database with more than 300 recipes.

Cost: $1.99 per month or $9.99 per year on the Apple App Store and Google Play

Sleep schedule: Huckleberry Baby

Screenshots of Huckleberry Baby, one of the best apps for moms
Huckleberry Baby

Your friends with kids have probably prepared you for how much time you’ll spend obsessing over your baby’s sleep. From wake windows to sleep cues and, later, sleep training, there’s so much to think about. Enter Huckleberry Baby, which takes the guesswork out of your baby’s sleepy time to help tired parents everywhere get more Zzz’s. The free version tracks your kid’s sleep and eating sessions, but parents who need more support can pay for Huckleberry experts to customize a unique sleep plan for each and every family. There’s no generic advice and no crying it out, per the app website. It helps you discover your “child’s natural rhythm” and takes the guesswork out of creating a sleep schedule that works for everyone involved, from newborns through three years old. No wonder it’s got thousands of 5-star ratings.

Cost: Free or paid (Huckleberry Plus: $9.99 per month or $58.99 per year and Huckleberry Premium: $14.99 per month or $119.99 per year) on Apple App Store and Google Play

 

Family organizer: Cozi

Screenshots of Cozi Family Organizer, one of the best apps for moms
Cozi Family Organizer

Choir practices and baseball games and gymnastics… oh my. If you’ve entered your glorified chauffeur era, you know how crucial it is to track where every kid needs to be whenever they’re not at school. And most importantly, all drivers, I mean parents, have to be on the same page. Cozi takes the guesswork out of family organization by offering a way to track the whole family’s activities in one place. Family members are color-coded so they know who needs to be where at a glance, and you can share the grocery list, to-do list, meal plan, and more—so it all doesn’t fall on one person (we know who that would be).

Cost: Free or paid (Cozi Gold: $19.99 – $39 per year) on Apple App Store and Google Play

Meeting other moms: Peanut

Screenshots of Peanut, one of the best apps for moms
Peanut

Those long, monotonous days of early motherhood can feel so lonely and the best salve is meeting other moms who are going through the same things you are. While some parents are able to wing it and make friends at the museum or the playground, others need a little help. Peanut is basically like Tinder for moms looking to make friends. You can search for your future bestie based on age, location, where they’re at in their parenting journey, and more. The app’s groups and communities let you build relationships with other parents who share your interests. And if you need a little mom advice this is an alternative to your Facebook moms group, which we know can be a tad…dramatic at times.

Cost: Free and paid (Premium features from $3.99 to $79.99) on Apple App Store and Google Play

Groceries and meal planning: Plan to Eat

Screenshots of Plan to Eat, one of the best apps for moms
Plan to Eat

When you have the Plan to Eat app, you’ll at least spend less time staring aimlessly into an empty refrigerator wondering what in the world you’re going to cook for dinner. This app is a quick and easy way to plan your grocery trips and meals for the week. You can choose and upload recipes from anywhere on the web and a shopping list is automatically created for you in the app with items sorted by store and aisle. You can also categorize all your recipes any way you want and you won’t be stuck searching Pinterest or your old handwritten recipe cards ever again.

Cost: Free or paid ($5.95 per month or $49 per year) on Apple App Store and Google Play

Music and audiobooks: Spotify

Screenshots of Spotify, one of the best apps for moms
Spotify

The Spotify app is a lifesaver that the whole family can enjoy, from impromptu dance parties and keeping kids occupied in the car to podcasts and audiobooks for everyone. Ever tried doing storytime without even picking up a book? On particularly exhausted nights, Spotify’s storytime podcasts do the trick—or you can search audiobooks from Dr. Seuss, Peppa Pig, Robert Munsch, and more. And oh the playlists you’ll make: a “bedtime playlist,” a “car playlist,” or, if you’re like my 5-year-old, a “Super Mario Brothers” playlist that features every Mario song known to man. The only downside of using Spotify to curate your favorite kid’s music is that it will kill your Spotify Wrapped, the app’s wildly popular and personalized year-end review. My most-liked song of last year was “Poopy Bum Bum.” You’ve been warned.

Cost: Free or paid ($16.99 per month for a premium family plan) on Apple App Store and Google Play

Play and activities: BabySparks

Screenshots of Babysparks, one of the best apps for moms
BabySparks

Sure your baby can very briefly entertain themselves by looking at shiny things, dangling toys, or just enjoying some tummy time, but if you’re looking to take your play to the next level and stimulate some brain development—or you’re flat out of ideas for how to play with your babe—the BabySparks app is a great place to start. The app features thousands of personalized activities and milestones for littles from infancy to three years old and a slew of virtual and on-demand parenting classes that cover nutrition, potty training, and discipline, plus 450 new articles added to the app every week. That’s a whole lot of info at your fingertips.

Cost: For 0-12 months, a one-time purchase of $7.99. Basic subscription is $4.99 per month or $29.99 per year and premium subscription is $19.99 per month or $119.99 per year on Apple App Store and Google Play

Tracking diapers, feeding schedules, and more: Baby Connect

Screenshots of Baby Connect, one of the best apps for moms
Baby Connect

Baby Connect is the ultimate tracking app for all the tired newborn parents looking to monitor their babies’ feeding times and amounts, diapers, naps, bedtime, milestones, and more. You can review stats by the day, week, or even since birth if you need to, and then share the data with your partner and nanny. The best part? Say goodbye to the dreadful task of explaining everything you just did to someone else before you can take that much-needed break.

Cost: $4.99 per month or $119.99 per year for the family plan on Apple App Store and $6.99 to $164.99 on Google Play

Finding the best parks: Playground Buddy

Screenshots of Playground Buddy, one of the best apps for moms
Playground Buddy

Once your baby is old enough to enjoy going to the park (and you’re ready to get out of the house more often) the Playground Buddy app is an invaluable resource that grows with your family. Perfect for toddlers and elementary-aged kids, this app provides a map of all the closest playgrounds, plus photos so you can see what they look like and what types of equipment they have (look out for baby swings!). You can also share the playground with others when planning playdates, even if they don’t have the app. You’ll have access to an encyclopedia of 400,000 playgrounds in 170 countries right in your pocket.

Cost: Free on Apple App Store and Google Play

A seasoned mom shares all the best ways to navigate the festive season with a wee one

They say it’s the most wonderful time of the year—and it is!—but even at the best of times the holidays can be a tad stressful, from travel logistics and finding the right gifts for everyone on your list to those less-than-subtle comments from relatives. Now throw a newborn into the mix and suddenly the season has an entirely new sense of magic, plus a fresh set of challenges as you navigate ever-changing sleep schedules, seasonal viruses, and an overwhelming number of commitments. As a mom of six, I’ve journeyed through my share of holidays with a new baby in tow (my third was born one week to the day before Christmas, and I really wish I’d had this list back then). Drawing from personal experience and expert advice, here are some tried-and-true tips for helping a new mom survive (or even thrive!) this holiday season.

1. In Good Health

No matter the season, keeping your babe healthy is always priority number one, but it’s especially important to be on guard with a newborn during the holidays. Baby’s immature immune system, large crowds gathering indoors, and the circulation of respiratory viruses make for the perfect storm. Dr. Priya Thomas, founder of Mindful Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine and mom of three, explains the risk. “An adult who just has a cold can pass along RSV, which can become severe in young babies.” Her advice is to steer clear of the crowds, practice proper hand-washing, and ask others to do the same before holding your infant. “Parents should feel empowered in this area, as it’s a matter of the health of the newborn,” says Thomas. But she is quick to remind us that that doesn’t mean new parents need to skip all the fun with friends and family. “This is the time to be creative. You don’t have to miss out on the holiday cheer, just avoid the large holiday parties and opt for a more intimate gathering in your home,” she suggests.

Related: 3 Ways to Protect Your Baby From Respiratory Viruses, According to a Nurse

2. Respond Right

As you spend more time with family and friends in the coming weeks, expect a flurry of questions and offers of unsolicited advice. (Take it from me, this time of year they’re as reliable as busy stores and even busier parking lots.) For example, if your little one’s sleep schedule coincides with a family event, you might hear remarks like, “We never cared about schedules in my day.” While these comments are often well-intended, they may not be helpful, especially when tender, postpartum emotions are swirling. To ease the pressure of responding in the moment, prepare a general response ahead of time, such as “We’re doing what we think is best for our baby.” Give your response with confidence and a smile, then gracefully transition the conversation to a more enjoyable topic. And, if tensions escalate still, take some advice from Theresa Gray, founder of Blooms of Grace Counseling. “If you’re noticing that you’re starting to feel anxious, angry or stressed, it’s okay to step away for a moment,” she shares. “Take deep breaths that fill your belly and relax your jaw and visualize a peaceful scene or memory.”

3. Baby Yourself

This time of year is all about giving, so go ahead and give yourself the gift of a break. “Self-care is often thought of as things like hot baths, mani-pedis, and shopping trips with friends, but those aren’t really the things that recharge us,” explains Gray. “Instead, self-care during this busy and highly sociable season might be to get up before the baby to prepare yourself and your heart for the day.” She continues: “It should include spending intentional time with your spouse or close friends and asking for help and communicating the needs and desires you have.”

a toddler sleeping on their tummy for a story about when babies can sleep on their stomach
iStock

4. Respect the Nap… Or Don’t

With all of the added festivities, the holidays are notorious for throwing off routines. As the parent, you get to decide whether to toss your schedule to the wind or politely decline any events that may mess it up. In my early years of motherhood, I took the respect-the-nap-at-all-costs approach. Although I missed out on certain events, I enjoyed the outings I did take because I had a happy, rested sidekick. Now, six kiddos in, we tend to let baby nap on the go, and she generally thrives in the spontaneity. In the end, how much to alter your baby’s schedule over the holidays is up to you and the kind of kid you have. “There is wisdom in keeping to a schedule, as there is a physiological need for that, but some flexibility is good, too,” says Thomas. “I am all about being mindful of what works for your family.”

5. Layer Up

The weather outside can be frightful this time of year, so it’s especially important to dress your little one so that they’re warm and comfortable. Because infants aren’t able to regulate their body temperature yet, they can lose heat four times faster than adults—though that’s not a reason to keep them indoors, no matter how many times your grandma warns about catching your death of cold. “Your baby is not going to get sick from exposure to the cold, but do be mindful of low temperatures and proper clothing,” advises Dr. Thomas. Layering is the key to ensuring your tot doesn’t get too cold or too hot. The rule of thumb: Dress them in the same amount of clothing you’d wear yourself, then add a layer. Also, be sure little’s outfit includes a hat, as the head and face are where babies lose heat the quickest.

6. Travel Smart

If you’re hitting the road this year, it can be helpful to plan your drive around baby’s nap time or bedtime to help you travel in peace. If they’ll be awake for the drive, schedule in lots of stops for feeding and cuddling. If your babe is prone to fussiness in the car, consider a genius travel companion like this: the Baby Shusher. It has consistently calmed our crankiest car-bound babies (and also soothed their hyperventilating parents) for years. Another option is the Hatch portable sound machine, or just turn up the tunes. “Santa Baby,” anyone?

Related: 11 Do’s and Don’ts of Your Baby’s First Holiday Season

7. Toy Time

Now that you’re a parent, it’s time we break it to you: for the next decade, the holidays will be virtually synonymous with toys. So many toys. If you have family eager to load baby up with gifts, my seasoned-mom advice is to skip anything with batteries (a.k.a. noisemakers) and keep it simple. For young babies, an activity mat is a great choice, suggests Thomas. “You can do tummy time on the mat with a newborn even just for a few minutes,” she says. “Look for one with a mirror and different contrasting colorings and textures, things they can touch and feel or make sound.” For older babies, my go-to’s are wooden blocks, hand puppets, and board books, each of which develops their motor skills or fosters imagination and emotional connection.

a mom cuddling a bundled up baby during baby's first Christmas
iStock

8. Slow Down

During the holidays, we often feel the pressure of doing more, but this is your permission to slow down. Replace the holiday “ho-ho-ho” with “no-no-no.” “Self-care sometimes means saying ‘no,’” Theresa explains. “You don’t have to do everything and be everywhere. Choose the things that prioritize the health of your family and the reason for the season.” (Read that again if people-pleasing is your kryptonite.) Letting the hustle and bustle of the holidays pass while you soak up the simple pleasures—quietly snuggling up on the couch with your favorite festive bevy and your tiny little elf—may be the best thing you add to your schedule this season.

9. Nobody’s Perfect

Sometimes, the most precious moments are the least perfect. It took me a long time to learn this. For years, I aspired to have the perfect Christmas tree (you know the one, straight from a Pottery Barn catalog), but with so many curious little hands moving things around, I’d have to rush to secretly redo the ornaments each night after bedtime. Now, looking back, I realize that I missed the magic in pursuit of perfection. Learn from my loss and let go of the idea that there is an “ideal” Christmas or Hannukah card, photo, or party. Instead, be present with your baby and enjoy the moment, no matter how imperfectly (or downright messily!) it unfolds.

It’s hard to choose between the Instant Pot chicken wings and the bacon-wrapped potato wedges

Whether you’re having a small gathering, heading to a big bash, or just want something special for a movie night with the kids, we have a few easy appetizer recipes that’ll come in handy. From finger foods to veggie appetizers, keep reading to check out our favorite appetizer recipes that are all made using three ingredients or less.

Baked Brie with Jam

Savory, gooey cheese, sweet fruit preserves, all served warm, what’s not to love? Get the recipe from America’s Test Kitchen.

Avocado Dip

Serve this 3-ingredient no-cook appetizer with crackers or veggies, either way, it’ll be a hit. Get the recipe from All Things Mama. 

3-Ingredient Hawaiian Meatballs

Ready in just 20 minutes, this 3-ingredient appetizer is perfect for little hands! Get the recipe from When Salty and Sweet Unite.

Proscuitto-Wrapped Pears with Balsamic Glaze

This is the definition of an easy appetizer recipe! If you want to get really fancy, consider throwing in a slice of cheese.

Monkey Bread

This cheesy monkey bread from Brit + Co is literally as easy as 1, 2, 3... ingredients. Kids will love the soft bread and parents will love how easy it is to make. 

Caprese Skewers

caprese skewers are an easy appetizer recipe
iStock

Quite possibly one of the easiest appetizers to whip up, simply grab fresh mozzarella balls, tomatoes, and pesto; skewer, drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinaigrette, and go! 

Tomato and Cheddar Palmiers

The Suburban Soapbox

These pretty palmiers from The Suburban Soapbox will definitely impress your guests. Buttery puff pastry and tart tomatoes meld perfectly with rich cheddar cheese—delish! 

Crock Pot Chili Cheese Dip

chili cheese dip is an easy appetizer
Julie’s Eats and Treats

Break out your slow cooker for this crowd-pleasing dip from Julie’s Eats and Treats. With just two ingredients, it’s definitely the simplest thing you’ll make all day. 

Related: 18 Finger Foods Easy Appetizers You Can Make in 30 Minutes or Less

Mozzarella Cheese Sticks

Averie Cooks

This appetizer from Averie Cooks is kid-approved and super easy to make. You’ll get the crunchy, melty effect of mozzarella sticks but without the mess and hassle of deep frying. 

Instant Pot Wings

Instant Pot wings are an easy appetizer
Mom Advice

Everybody loves chicken wings, and Mom Advice has a foolproof method for making them in the Instant Pot. A quick pass under the broiler gives them a crispy finish. 

Pesto Yogurt Dip

Melanie Makes

This light and fresh dip from Melanie Makesis an ideal appetizer to serve before a heavy holiday meal. Pair it with plenty of fresh veggies, cheese, and crackers, and you’ll be ready to entertain a crowd. 

Best Breadsticks Ever

These breadsticks are an easy appetizer
Kiwi & Carrot

How fancy do these breadsticks from Kiwi & Carrot look?! Using a pre-made puff pastry makes them super easy to pull off, even if you’re not a master baker. 

Crock Pot Glazed Kielbasa Bites

Julie’s Eats and Treats

This genius recipe from Julie’s Eats and Treats is totally hands-off, thanks to the magical Crock Pot. It’s made with kielbasa, brown sugar, and one unexpected ingredient.

Bacon Wrapped Cherries with Thyme

We Are Not Martha

It might sound strange, but stay with us: these bacon-wrapped cherries from We Are Not Martha are delicious. The savory bacon makes a perfect contrast for tart, juicy cherries. 

Related: 13 Trader Joe’s Appetizers to Serve During the Holidays This Year

Quick Dinner Rolls

Life, Love and Good Food

Start your meal off with these yummy dinner rolls from Life, Love and Good Food. No rising required—just mix up the three ingredients, and bake the rolls in a muffin tin. 

Everything Parmesan Crisps

The Suburban Soapbox

This inventive take on a crispy cracker from The Suburban Soapbox is bound to be a hit with cheese lovers. Even better, they come together in less than 10 minutes, leaving you more time to obsess over the rest of the menu. 

Creamy Salsa Dip

Simply Stacie

For a crowd-pleasing appetizer, whip up a batch of this super easy dip from Simply Stacie. Paired with fresh veggies and tortilla chips, don’t be surprised if this one disappears fast. 

Classy Pigs in a Blanket

Culinary Hill

Make your party extra magical with an appetizer that only uses two (count ‘em, two!) ingredients. These pigs in a blanket are the definition of simple—and you can even add a touch of sesame seeds to up the wow factor. Get the recipe over at Culinary Hill.

Blue Cheese Bites

blue cheese bites are an easy appetizer recipe
A Wicked Wisk

Serving something warm to take the chill off is also the perfect way to welcome guests. This easy appetizer recipe from A Wicked Wisk combines a couple of our favorite things—flaky biscuits and flavorful blue cheese—to make a melty, bubbly appetizer perfect for a crowd. Drooling yet? 

Related: Did Somebody Say Bacon? 7 Bacon Appetizers to Make Today

Honey-Roasted Pecans

Trial and Eater

If you’re worried about dinner timing or want something festive (and deceptively simple) on your snack tray, make a batch of these honey-roasted pecans from Trial and Eater for guests to graze on throughout the day. The recipe couldn't be easier, but it’s way more delicious than the store-bought kind. 

Bacon-Wrapped Potato Wedges

bacon-wrapped potato wedges are an easy appetizer recipe
A Calculated Whisk

Potato wedges just got even tastier, thanks to this recipe from A Calculated Whisk. How? Why, wrap them in bacon, of course! Now you’ve got an appetizer fit for a hungry crowd of grown-ups and kiddos alike. 

Baked Ham and Cheese Roll-Ups

baked ham and cheese roll up is an easy appetizer recipe
Pumpkin ‘n Spice

For an appetizer that’s a bit more filling, try these yummy roll-ups from Pumpkin ‘n Spice. It’s easy to customize them with your favorite meats, cheeses, and seasonings. As a bonus, you can keep this recipe in rotation for school lunches. 

 

So you’re about to have a threenager. Congratulations! The added excitement in your life—from exuberant gestures of love to devastating reactions to anything that causes sadness—means that you’ll want to celebrate this milestone. Keep reading for our take on throwing the most epic birthday party for three-year-olds ever.

To Theme or Not to Theme?

Three-year-olds are passionate people, which means they love the things they love. Surround them with those things and you can practically forget the rest of your to-do list.

Real Mom Advice: I threw a ninja-themed party for my son when he turned three, and he was more excited about the decorations than he was about his presents. He still has his banner—his name in Japanese surrounded by ninja images—hanging in his room.

How Many Kids Should I Invite to a Birthday Party for Three-Year-Olds?

By three, your daughter probably has her people. She knows what she likes, who shares toys well, and who doesn’t. However, you’re still in the middle of preschool life, which means smaller classes and moms who volunteer together and know each other well. At this point, unless you’re going to pull your invitation list from multiple places (the classroom, the neighborhood, the mommy-and-me music class), you might need to invite everyone in the class.

Real Mom Advice: I was working full-time when my daughter turned three, and her daycare class was pretty large. I didn’t have other groups to pull guests from, so to keep the numbers more manageable, I just invited the girls. We sent party favors and cupcakes to school on Monday to share with the whole class and the boys.

gift for a 3 year old birthday
Ekaterina Shevchenko via Unsplash

Should I Limit Gifts?

This is a hot topic that fans somefeelings, so go with your gut. If you know your kid is getting a billion gifts from grandparents and you want to ease off, maybe going the no-gift route is right for you. Or perhaps your party is the extent of your favorite three-year-old’s birthday celebration. In that case, gifts could be great—especially if your party guest list is on the shorter side.

Real Mom Advice: At three, your little one’s shelves might be filling up. Now’s a good time to box up some of those rattles and rollers to save for the next one, or to donate.

How Long Should a Birthday Party for Three-Year-Olds Last?

Three-year-olds are not known for getting bored, so even if you go a little too long, they’ll be busy. A two-hour party seems like the sweet spot, but depending on your schedule, you could go a little shorter or longer.

Real Mom Advice: Have a plan on standby for when the party’s winding down, but parents haven’t yet packed their kiddos in the car seat. This is when things could get hairy. A pack of balloons will work woners, because all you have to do is blow up a few by mouth, throw them to the c,rowd and tell them to keep those bad boys from touching the ground. Then, start saying yourthank-yous and goodbyes.

iStock

What Time of Day Works Best for a 3-Year-Old Birthday Party?

Since many three-year-olds have dropped their naps but still get a little cranky in the afternoons, planning your party for the morning—or no later than lunchtime, if you want to serve lunch—is pretty solid advice.

Real Mom Advice: If any of your guests are the oldest children, go ahead and set up the pack-and-play and baby swing in advance of the party. Your parent guests with wee ones who still nap in the mornings will thank you, and you won’t have to leave the party to pull the equipment out of the closet.

Where Should We Have It?

Pandemic partying has its own set of constraints, but your main consideration here will be safe. While everyone has their comfort level with who, where, and how you interact with those outside your regular circle, a three-year-old party is incredibly well-suited to pandemic gatherings: They’re small, they work best outside, and they’re relatively short.

Real Mom Advice: If you feel comfortable having a party in a jump house or trampoline park, these rock for three-year-old parties. However, a playground or a backyard works equally well.

3 year old birthday fun
iStock

 What Do We Do?

Three-year-olds love accomplishments, and you can harness the power of this by having a pre-planned craft, art project, obstacle course, or game stations. Tie your activities into your theme, and you’ve just #won.

Real Mom Advice: My son loves trophies, and it was easy to order a box of them on Amazon before his big day. We incorporated an awards ceremony at the end of the party and gave each guest a trophy for something they did that was awesome. Not trying to brag, but it was kind of the best party ever.

Do I Bake a Cake?

Bake it or fake it, this isn’t going to be a three-year-old’s first rodeo. They’re going to be on the lookout for the sweet stuff.

Real Mom Advice: Tie the cake decoration into your theme, and it won’t matter if it’s filled with zucchini. (Don’t try this—we’re kidding.) But for real, decorate the cake and know that your local grocery store is an excellent option, too. You don’t have to go specialty bakery here. They’re three, so they’ll be psyched no matter how much you spend on it.

a birthday party for a three year old
iStock

Do I Feed People at a Birthday Party for Three-Year-Olds?

Three-year-old parties are generally not drop-off affairs, which means you’re also going to be hosting a handful of adults. Don’t go overboard with catering to the grown-ups, but it’s a nice gesture to fill a cooler with more adult-type beverages—sparkling waters, sodas, or beer and wine if you’re inclined—just to keep everyone hydrated. For the kids, set out bowls (or individual baggies) of their favorite fruit, veggie, or salty snacks, and juice boxes or containers of water. Steer clear of candy and sweets on the snack table, as you’ll be loading them up when it’s time to blow out the candles.

Real Mom Advice: At my daughter’s party, which was tea party-themed, I went overboard on sugary toppings for the cupcakes (the “craft” was to allow each guest to decorate their cupcake). Rookie move. Not a sprinkle was left on the table, and the guests spent the last hour growling at one another. Be sure you keep an eye on the sugar, is all I’m saying.

What about Favors for a 3-Year-Old Birthday Party?

Yes, favors for the win! Don’t go wild, but a festive-looking package at the exit gate will guarantee an easy send-off.

Real Mom Advice: Slap bracelets, bouncy balls, bubbles, and sticker books are always good. If you want to step it up a notch, personalized sippy cups are cute. At this stage, it’s less about what’s in the package than how fun it looks when you’re passing them out.

How Do I Make It Stop?

Cue the exit music, start a conga line, and head toward the party favor station (and the car door).

Real Mom Advice: Putting an end time on the invitation may seem weird, but it’ll make sure everyone is on the same page, and it will save you from the awkward goodbye.

What about the After-Party?

Don’t give in to the urge to have a private family party immediately after the party with guests ends. Shut. It. Down. Make time for maybe a book or possibly a cartoon, then nap time—if that works with your schedule. You and your three-year-old are going to need to chillax. Save the after-party for another day.

 

Regardless of what your early ’20s held, you’d better buckle your seatbelts for a new era of partying: the two-year-old birthday party. These revelers are looking for hands-on fun, and they’re leaving it all on the dance floor. Keep reading as we dive deep into the best way to throw (and manage) an epic two-year-old bash.

How Long Should It Last?

Since these kids bring the intensity, a two-year-old birthday party should be short and sweet. An hour and a half of activity, rounded out by cake, and you’re set.

Real Mom Advice: Two-year-olds have trouble with transitions, so be sure to motivate them to move through the party without tears by building up to better and better experiences. Start slow, add some excitement, corral them with cake and send them out the door with an exciting-looking party favor.

What Time of Day Works Best?

You’re still squarely in the world of nappers at this stage, so pick a time when your birthday toddler is at their best. Do they get grumpy after a nap? Plan the party for the morning. Will it ruin their day to miss a favorite cartoon in the morning? Plan it for the afternoon. Whatever you decide, make the timing work for your guest of honor.

Real Mom Advice: You’ll always have reasons to structure your day around someone else’s convenience. Grandparents who like to sleep late, sibling soccer games and college sports schedules come to mind. But do yourself a solid and plan the party to maximize your child’s enjoyment. It’ll be better for everyone in the long run.

Where Should I Have It?

While everyone has their comfort level with who, where and how you interact with those outside your regular footprint, a two-year-old birthday party is incredibly well-suited to pandemic gatherings. They’re small, they work best outside and they’re short. Win, win, win.

Real Mom Advice: Playgrounds and backyards—or neighborhood coves, if you have them—make excellent party spots for your budding two-year-old. Think of it as a field day. You’ll be setting up stations, so you need space, but you’ll want to create a “hive” of activity in one central location.

Do I Need a Theme?

Whether it’s a toga party in college or a Paw Patrol affair for your birthday kid, themes can be solid party boosters. And since two-year-olds love playing dress up, wearing their finest theme gear can add a lot of excitement to the soiree. But if you don’t have time to take things to the next level, don’t sweat it. At this point, a theme is extra.

Real Mom Advice: Not naming names, but we know someone who had a football-themed second birthday party because it was November and the parents’ favorite team was playing. Bad. Idea. Luckily, I… I mean, the mom, remembered she had a bubble machine and saved a spiraling party that was not focused on the birthday kid.

What Do We Do?

If you’re going the outdoor route, nothing beats sensory tables for a two-year-old party. Kinetic sand, real sand, flour tables (add water and spoons and you can turn it into a dough table) and shaving cream can get the party started. For a craft, homemade drum sets with balloons and rubber bands over an empty can and make-your-own sensory Ziploc bags work well. For a more active group, playing simple games like “the floor is lava” or trying to keep the balloon off the ground is a solid choice.

Real Mom Advice: If you’re going with a theme, you can tie it in to each station, even if it means printing out a matching sign and taping it to the table. And don’t forget the bubbles. A bubble machine will rock your world.

Do I Make a Cake?

Does a fish need a bicycle? Of course not, but it’s really cool! Cakes, cupcakes, cake pops…. it’s a birthday, y’all! If you’re a baker, there’s no group more forgiving of a baking flop than a bunch of two-year-olds. Of course, purchasing is always a sweet option, and you get the best portion control—and less of a sugar high—with cake pops.

Real Mom Advice: Save the treat for the end of the party for maximum enjoyment. Also, if you’re looking to go the route of gluten-free, sugar-free or any other free, give your bakery a call at least a week out so you’re not scrambling to make something work at the last minute.

What Do I Feed People?

Two-year-olds ‘ birthday parties are generally not drop-off parties, which means you’re going to also be hosting a handful of adults. Don’t go overboard on catering to the adults, but it’s a nice gesture to fill a cooler with more adult-type beverages—sparkling waters, sodas, or beer and wine, if you’re inclined—just to keep everyone hydrated. For the kids, set out bowls (or individual baggies) of their favorite fruit, veggie or salty snacks and juice boxes or individual bottles of water. Steer clear of candy and sweets on the snack table, as you’ll be loading them up when it’s time to blow out the candles.

Real Mom Advice: At two, many kids with peanut allergies don’t even realize they have them yet. Play it safe and stay away from anything that might reveal a food allergy.

What About Favors?

Yes, favors for the win. Don’t go overboard, but a festive-looking package at the exit gate will guarantee an easy send-off.

Real Mom Advice: Slap bracelets, bouncy balls, bubbles and sticker books are always winners. If you want to step it up a notch, personalized sippy cups are cute. At this stage, it’s less about what’s in the package than it is about how fun the package looks to the kids when you’re passing them out. And for heaven’s sake, skip anything that’s a noisemaker like a whistle, PLEASE.

How Do I Make It Stop?

Cue the exit music, start a conga line and head toward the party favor station (and the awaiting minivans).

Real Mom Advice: Putting an end time on the invitation may seem weird, but it’ll make sure everyone is on the same page, and it will save you from the awkward goodbye.

What About the After-Party?

Don’t give in to the urge to have a private family party immediately after the party with guests ends. Shut. It. Down. Make time for maybe a book or possibly a cartoon, then nap time—if that works with your timing. You and your two-year-old are going to need to chillax. Save the after-party for after your next sleep block.

As if you didn’t already loooove her laidback style (and just about everything else about the superstar actress), Drew Barrymore’s family calendar system is about to become your new BFF. This celeb mama has it down when it comes to balancing work and family life.

Um, wait. None of us really do. And just because she’s fab and famous doesn’t mean she’s got the whole working mom thing under wraps. But she does have some pretty brilliant advice for mommy-ing with a busy, busy work schedule. She’s a mom, actress, entrepreneur and so much more. Yep, Drew Barrymore has a busy schedule — and that means having to take time away from her family life to work and travel.

Barrymore posted to Instagram her tips for working moms. Even though the actress-mama may have more money and fame than any of us regular ol’ folk could imagine, that doesn’t mean she isn’t totally down to earth when it comes to finding ways to balance parenting and her job.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BgXq7_1gPCX/?taken-by=drewbarrymore

Barrymore starts her post by writing, “Olive has a working mom. So, I came up with a couple of systems. One is “THE CALENDAR”. It has been very successful recently.”

So what is “THE CALENDAR”? Well, Barrymore uses an old-school paper calendar—not an app, not an online version and not some sort of mobile-connected, super-confusing techy version—to circle all of her travel days. She then has her daughter, Olive, mark the days with an “X” as they end. This gives her a visual reference for how long mom is gone and when she’ll be back.

Along with “THE CALENDAR,” Barrymore makes sure that she doesn’t give her daughter a negative picture of working. She writes on IG, “I always explain to her that I love my Job. I don’t say, “I have to go to work” with a grimace on my face, because I fear it will make her feel negative about something a lot of moms must do to provide.”

We totally agree, Drew! And thanks for the awesome tips.

What’s your best piece of working mom advice? Share your tips with us in the comments below.

—Erica Loop

Featured image: Drew Barrymore via Instagram

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