If a road trip with your rugrat has you stressed—don’t fear! A smart stash of supplies will keep your little one comfortable and content on your travels. This road trip with baby checklist includes everything from snacks for all parties involved, ways to keep kiddo comfortable in their car seat, and extra supplies like books and new toys to make the trip actually enjoyable.

1. First Aid Kit

Buy a ready-made kit to keep in the car or put together your own with the essentials (adhesive bandages, antiseptic pads, gauze pads, tweezers, cold packs, scissors). Bonus: A box of bandages can keep a toddler busy in a pinch. Simply open up the box and let your little one take out the strips and put them back in, over and over. If that loses its magic, let them peel and stick bandages all over themselves and the car seat.

2. Bags to Hold Dirty Clothes

You may be leaving your house, but you’re not leaving laundry behind, unfortunately. Pack a few plastic bags you can use if there’s a blowout or spit-up situation. Better yet, buy Wash.It.Later’s Soak & Save Bags to give you a place to stash dirty clothes until you can toss them in the wash. These bags are pocket-size, leak-proof and have built-in stain-busting solution inside them.

3. Sun Shade

Who doesn’t get cranky when they’re too hot? That air conditioning doesn’t always reach the back seat. To keep kids cool and block UVA and UVB rays, attach one of these sun shades to your car window.

4. Diaper-Changing Kit

When you’re dealing with a dirty diaper on the road, a good diaper kit is a game-changer. You’ll want one that includes a changing mat, wipes, and diaper sacks that lock in wetness and odor, for when you don’t want your car to smell like…you know. No more digging through bottomless diaper bags looking for changing necessities in a panic! Now your trip just got a whole lot smoother.

5. Extra Baby Blankets

Muslin swaddling blankets are lifesavers on long road trips, and in general. They can keep your baby cozy when it’s nap time, act as a light and sound-reducing cover, mop up messes, and can even be folded into a makeshift diaper in a pinch.

6. New Toys & Old Favorites

Pack your little one’s favorite toys, especially a lovey, and throw in a few newbies, too. Put a cardboard box or plastic bin on the seat next to your child’s car seat and fill it with a mix of easy-to-grab toys, like this Oball Shaker and a drawing board. Small trucks and dolls are always a hit too. To maximize the wow factor and keep kids busy longer, wrap each toy before the trip. For more ideas, check out The Best Baby & Toddler Toys for the Car.

7. Mini Vacuum

Crumbs and toddlers go together like peanut butter and jelly. If all that mess drives you nuts, buy a portable vacuum cleaner with a car-compatible power plug, like this one. You’ll use it (and love it!) for years to come.

8. Extra Outfits—for You & Your Babe

Bring at least two or three changes of clothes for your baby, and keep it easily accessible. Keep a clean shirt nearby for yourself, too, as there’s a good chance you’ll get soaked in spit-up. It’s the law of the road.

9. Board Books

A few board books are perfect road-trip distractions for babies and toddlers. Littler ones love to gnaw on Indestructables, drool-friendly books featuring faves like farm animals and smiling faces. Interactive lift-the-flap books and texture-packed books are made to mesmerize toddlers. For more book ideas, read 25 Board Books Every Baby Needs.

10. Tunes for Days!

Your favorite jams will help put everyone on board in a good mood! No need to resort to the Wiggles; put on any music that makes you happy, and chances are your baby will bop along to the beat too. Just be sure to put together a lullaby-packed playlist for nap time.

11. Munchies

Road trips always induce snack attacks, no matter what age you are! We have some smart travel-friendly snack ideas here.

Make sure to capture all your adventures on the road—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.

It’s summertime, and the parties are easy—especially birthday parties! With great weather, water, and a little creativity, you can have plenty of fun in the sun. We’ve gathered the best outdoor birthday party ideas for your summer kiddo, from messy art parties to twists on water play. Sit down, grab a popsicle, and prepare to take your party to the next level with the inspiration we found from the best party planning pros out there.

If you need more outdoor birthday party ideas, check out 2024’s top trending birthday party ideas here, our favorite classic birthday games, birthday party snacks, and birthday desserts that aren’t cake.

The Best Outdoor Birthday Party Ideas for Kids

Ice Cream Sundae Party

Take that drippy, messy, delicious treat outside with an ice cream sundae-themed party. This fun party kit adds a festive touch and kids can enjoy the rest of the event by playing outdoor games. Eat up the best ice cream sundae tips here.

Magic Rainbow Party

What’s waiting at the end of the rainbow? A fantastic outdoor birthday party. Rainbows make for a natural outdoor party theme that’s easy to pull off with brightly colored decor, Skittles-sprinkled desserts, and a rainbow pinata.

Picnic Lunch Party

With a few blankets, picnic snack ideas, and balloons, you can set up a perfect outdoor birthday! What we love about this is that you can find a park with a playground and keep your party activity planning to a minimum. See our other favorite picnic party ideas here.

A Circus Party

While it’s true you can have a big top-themed party any time of year, in the summertime, it’s your chance to be a little extra. Know anyone who can juggle or make balloon animals? This is their time to shine.

Field Day Fun Party

Take a cue from everyone’s favorite day in elementary school and host a field-day-themed party. Tug-of-war, relay races, and wheelbarrow races: it’s easy to put together fun activities for this party. It practically plans itself! If you need more ideas and want to add to the classic field day events, check out our favorite classic yard games that are easy to repurpose for a field day birthday party.

Related: 17 Summer Birthday Party Ideas That Never Go Out of Style

Outdoor Art Party

Katie's Pencil Box

Add an extra dose of color with an outdoor art party. Set up big canvases like the ones shown above—or just tape butcher paper to the fence—and let your guests' inner Picassos come out. Some other supplies that are perfect for throwing an artsy bash include mini canvases, paintbrushes, and lots of washable paint. 

Popsicle Fun Outdoor Birthday

Buckets of frozen treats and bins of water toys in Giggles Galore’s popsicle party go a long way with the kiddos on a warm (birth)day with this simple outdoor birthday party idea.

Tea Party

Kelle Hampton

With flowers blooming, summer is the perfect time for an outdoor tea party. Add a whimsical activity and turn the party into a fairy garden with a fairy house craft. Check out The Garden Spot for more fairy tale tea ideas and find our fave tea time snacks here.

Camp Out Party

Alison McKown via Just Add Confetti

Get out into the great outdoors with a summer-camp-themed birthday party complete with a delicious s'mores cake. We love the clever merit badge activities that Alison of Just Add Confetti dreamed up for her son's fifth birthday. Bonus: you can use her free printable for your party. Find out all the details at Just Add Confetti.

Soccer Party

picture of a soccer party, one of the best outdoor birthday party ideas
Jillian Leslie via Catch My Party

Score loads of points with a soccer-themed birthday party. Get inspired by this soccer-themed party over at Catch My Party—jerseys double as decoration and plastic trophies are full of munchies. Plus, the activity is a total no-brainer. Up for a game of soccer, anyone?

Flower Power Party

Courtney Vickers

Kori Clark transforms soft blooms in coordinating colors into a fresh, beautiful take on the standard princess party. Pick a color palette and just add (lots of) flowers, homemade and otherwise.

Related: 18 Pool Party Ideas to Help You Throw an Epic Bash

Luau Party

One of our favorite outdoor birthday party ideas is to have a luau! Not only are the colors fun, but you can serve plenty of fruit, and pulled pork sliders, do the limbo, make a tropical mocktail for kids, hand out plastic leis and sand buckets for party favors, and so much more.

A Ball Bash

Bloom Designs

Bloom Designs starts with colorful tickets as invites and adds a booth of the kiddos’ favorite game day snacks, and TBH, we can’t think of a better excuse for nachos and cheese puffs. Throw a few inflatable balls onto the lawn, and you’ve got an outdoor birthday party home run.

Mud Run Party

Ashley Ann Photography

Under the Sycamore’s clever-themed party uses boxes, tires, string, and other obstacle-worthy props to create the ultimate outdoor birthday challenge. Bonus: parents will thank you at the end of the night (think pooped-out kids falling straight into slumber!).

Outdoor Movie Night

A family-friendly flick, munchable sides of popcorn, and a basket of blankets for when the night cools down complete the ingredient list for an awesome outdoor birthday movie night. Wondering what you’ll need? Check out our favorite outdoor movie night ideas and our favorite movie night snacks!

Bubble Mania Party

Happy Hooligans

This easy homemade bubble recipe by Happy Hooligans is sure to cause some bubble mania (with the most gigantic bubbles ever!) amongst the littles. Pair the recipe with different kinds of wands, have towels on hand, and let the suds take over.

Related: How to Throw a Sensory-Inclusive Birthday Party for Neurodiverse Kids

Tie-Dye Party

Chaotically Creative

This outdoor birthday party idea might just be the perfect opportunity to introduce the kiddos to your favorite '70s playlist (Bee Gees, anyone?). Plus, partygoers get to take home a fun “to dye for” party favor that lasts longer than candy or trinkets from your standard goody bag. Chaotically Creative gives inspiration for helping party-goers get their groove on.

A Farmer’s Market Party

A market full of fresh fruit in vibrant ripe colors is the perfect inspiration for your (organic) farmers-in-training to celebrate a birthday—or at least an excuse to nosh on something other than candy, as Eye Heart Pretty Things beautifully demonstrates.

A Berry Good Birthday Party

Kat Forder Photography via Hello Wonderful

Summer is berry season, so it's natural to throw a sweet berry-themed bash. Bright red touches make this party fabulous and will put a smile on any fruit lover's face. Hello Wonderful will show you just what to pick to throw your own berry bash.

Impress your kids and all the guests at your Halloween party with these spooky, delicious, and creative treats

If you’ve already sorted out your crew’s costumes and carved up your pumpkin, and you’ve still got time, how about crafting up a few easy Halloween treats? We’ve got all the goodies (and even Halloween-themed dinners) for kids you could ever want, from healthy(ish) picks to snacks inspired by creepy crawlers.

Cute Halloween Cat Treats

A black cat cookie with candy corn eyes
A Taste of Madness

Whole Wheat Black Cat Cookies. How cute are these kitty cookies from A Taste of Madness? You don’t need special cookie cutters to make them, and the kiddos can help top them off with adorable candy corn eyes. Using wheat flour helps make them a little more wholesome than your average dessert, too. 

Black Cat Oreo Treats.
These treats from Moments with Mandi are sure to impress your little ones—they’re (almost) too cute to eat. We love the wide eyes drawn on the chocolate candies and the chocolate chip “ears.” 

Classic Betty Crocker Black Cat.
Your kittens will go crazy for this delish cake from Betty Crocker. No fancy pans are required for this one—just round cake pans and a bit of clever cutting to make the cat shape. Topped off with licorice whiskers, it’ll be just as tasty as it looks.

Black Cat Cutout Cookies. For an easy but delicious treat, make these cutout cats from Cinnamon Girl. The recipe is pretty straightforward, and you can let your little sous chefs dot on watchful eyes once the cookies have cooled. 

Related: Easy Halloween Decorations You Can Make for About $5

Mummy-Themed Easy Halloween Treats

Madeleine cookies are decorated to look like mummies and Minions for Halloween treats
Sugar Bowl Bakery

Mummy Madeleines. These Madeleine Mummies and Minions look like you slaved away in the kitchen, but they're fuss free. Just put some white frosting in a piping bag with a cross-hatch tip, then make lines or zigzags before popping on some candy eyes and sprinkles. We tend to love these soft and fluffy traditional or pumpkin spice Madeleines from Sugar Bowl Bakery.

Mummified Oreos. How Does She serves up a spooktacular assortment of haunted treats, including to-die-for Mummy Oreo Suckers. And think about it: If you can make Oreos into something cute, what other cookies can you transform?

Halloweeño Jalapeño Popper Mummies
. If you’re a fan of spice, this hot idea from The Hopeless Housewife is sure to startle your taste buds. Terrifyingly simple to bake, these Jalapeño Popper Mummies make a great savory appetizer for your Halloween bash.

Mummy Pretzels. This salty, sweet, and spooky treat is scarily simple to make. The most difficult step according to Simply Being Mommy is waiting for the chocolate to cool and harden before eating!

Witch-Inspired Halloween Treats

Decorated chocolate kisses sit on top of Oreos to create the Halloween treat Witch Hat Cookies
Princess Pinky Girl

Witch Hat Cookies. This super easy recipe from Princess Pinky Girl results in adorable witch hat treats in no time flat. Gather up Oreos and chocolate kisses plus a few other ingredients for this party-ready dessert.  

Witch Guacamole Dip. Bright green guacamole glows from underneath a tortilla chip hat in Spicy Southern Kitchen’s Witch Guacamole.  Mash up some avocados or grab your fave store-bought guac as the base for this healthy Halloween treat. 

Butterscotch Brooms.
Every witch needs her broom, so you’ve got to whip up some cute broomsticks inspired by From Calculus to Cupcakes. They’re super quick to throw together, and they hit the perfect balance between sweet and savory.

Deathly Chocolate Graveyard Cakes. We think this spooktastic dessert from Half Baked Harvest is genius. With gravestones made out of brownies and witch legs made out of rolled wafer cookies, decorating them is half the fun. 

Easy Halloween Treats That Aren’t Too Sugary

Low-sugar pumpkin mousse sits in a bowl
Super Healthy Kids

Mousse Made Easy. Looking for a kid-approved party dessert that won’t scare away adults? Like a light, fluffy piece of pumpkin pie without the crust, this pumpkin mousse from Super Healthy Kids uses only six simple ingredients. Prep it in advance and make the most of your time with guests. 

Awesome Apple Cupcakes. Love the taste of old-fashioned Halloween treats? Take a trip down memory lane with luscious fall flavors of apple and cinnamon. These beautiful cupcakes from Sarah Bakes Gluten Free will remind you of the sweet caramel apples of your youth without too much of the sticky stuff.

Not-So-Basic Bark. Turn after-school grumps into giggly ghouls with this super-cute candy bark from Fork and Beans. Vegan and gluten-free with no icky preservatives, you’ll love getting your (somewhat healthy) chocolate fix. It’ll take a few steps to get to the finished product, but we promise this bark will make you want to take a big bite. 

 

(Sort of) Nutritious Halloween Treats

Mini monster sandwiches topped with olive eyes
My Own Road

Monster Sandwiches. What's a monster mash without monster sandwiches? This idea from My Own Road is an easy way to ensure that there's hearty food on your Halloween menu—you know, before the giant sugar rush. Plus, it's a cinch to customize these mini monster sandwiches with your fam's fave deli meat and fillings.

Halloween-Themed Sushi Balls. These adorable Halloween-themed sushi balls from Chopstick Chronicles are fairly easy to make, and you can change up the ingredients according to your little monster's palate. Put a bunch together as a main dish or spread them around as creepy little sides.

Frozen BOO-nana Ghosts. These ghost-shaped boo-nana popsicles are a fun treat the kids will love making as much as eating. Erin Clarke at Well Plated takes the healthy route and dips the banana shapes into vanilla yogurt rather than white chocolate—and you can turn these treats into mummies with a bit of peanut butter, caramel or nut butter, and coconut sugar.

Hooting Owls. Not as spooky as ghosts and gravestones but how can you resist these delicious Halloween owls? Spread peanut butter or cream cheese on crackers and add sliced and whole almonds for this nocturnal nibble from Charity Mathews at Foodlets.

Related: 30 Perfectly Spooky Halloween Books to Read This Year

Creepy, Crawly Treats

Bakerella

Spider Cake Pops. One bite of these creepy crawly cake pops and you might understand why the old lady swallowed the spider. Wriggle over to Bakerella to learn to make these eerily delicious arachnids. Hint: The placement is all about timing.

Dirt and Worms Pudding Cups. We dig this easy-to-make dessert from Like Mother Like Daughter. Great for serving the kids at your Halloween party, they’re also fun for spring and Earth Day, too.

Creepy Corn Dog Centipedes. Hungry Happenings transformed ordinary mini corn dogs into a Halloween centipede, complete with ketchup eyes. If your kids like creepy crawlers and enjoy playing with their food, this might be the snack for you.

Jello Worms. Mel’s Kitchen Cafe used straws and a package of gelatin to make this squirmy Halloween treat. While they might gross out older ghosts, these squiggly creatures are sure to be a hit with your little goblins, and they’re super easy to make.

Kooky Halloween Monster Treats

These Halloween treats are chocolate monster cookies with candy googly eyes, chewy chocolate chip cookies, and chocolate ganache.
Self Proclaimed Foodie

Chocolate Monster Cookies. We’d welcome these monster cookies from Self Proclaimed Foodie to any Halloween party. The secret lies in the edible googly eyes—but don’t forget the perfect chocolate chip cookies and chocolate ganache.

S’more Monsters. What’s better than s’mores? S’mores that look like monsters! You won’t need a campfire to create this delicious Halloween-themed treat from Jodi Levine over at Say Yes, but you will need cookies, marshmallows, and little helping hands.

Dangerous Donuts. Donuts get a monstrous makeover with this snack from A Spicy Perspective that the little ones will go crazy for. Either make ahead for your guests or lay out the supplies and let the kids take creative control. You’ll need some plastic vampire fangs, sprinkles, and you guessed it… candy eyes.

Chocolate Monster Pops. You’ll have plenty of little monsters gathering around a batch of these chocolate Frankensteins from Handmade Charlotte. The supplies include basic baking stuff: chocolate bars, coconut, and icing. We are especially zinging with delight over the Hershey Kiss neck bolts. 

Related: 36 Halloween Movies That Aren’t Too Scary for Kids

Ghost-Inspired Treats

Sugar Bowl Bakery

Brownie Bites with Fondant Ghosts. Need a last-minute Halloween treat? We love these adorable desserts from Sugar Bowl Bakery that use store-bought brownie bites and small pieces of fondant to create the perfect, non-scary ghost friend.

3-Ingredient Easy Ghost Cookies. The only thing scary about these cookies from Butter with a Side of Bread is how easy they are to make. All you need are Milano cookies, white chocolate, and small chocolate chips to whip up these friendly, Casper-style sweets.

Ghosts in the Graveyard Dessert Shooters. Don't worry, these alcohol-free treats from Sugarspun Run are for everyone! Think OREO dirt cup with a marshmallow ghost that is fun and easy to make.

Frightfully Easy Halloween Cupcake Treats

Easy to make RIP cupcakes with chocolate wafers, pumpkin shaped candy corn, vanilla wafers and chocolate frosting.
Christal Yuen

Ghoulish Graveyard. What you'll need: crumbled chocolate wafers, pumpkin-shaped candy corn, vanilla wafers, and chocolate frosting. What to do: After covering the chocolate cupcake with chocolate frosting, crush chocolate wafers and sprinkle them over the frosting as "dirt." Set a pumpkin-shaped candy corn on top and write "RIP" on the vanilla wafer before planting it in the "graveyard."

Wicked Witch. What you'll need: green icing, one straw cut in half, and gum drops. What to do: Frost your cupcake in plenty of bright green frosting. Snip your straw in half, and slice a red gum drop down the center, so you have two identical halves (and a pair of ruby slippers). Stick one to each end of the straws and lay the "legs" on your serving platter. Now lay your cupcake house upside down on top of the legs. We can almost hear Dorothy trotting away in glee. 

Not-So-Scary Mummy. What you'll need: Mini M&Ms and white frosting. What to do: Using a piping bag (either store-bought or DIY), place lines across your cupcake to form your mummy's bandages and then two affix candy eyes.

Caught in a Spiderweb. What you'll need: White frosting and black gel icing. What to do: After frosting the cupcake in white, use your gel icing to make three concentric circles on top. Take a toothpick and, starting in the center, drag the toothpick through the icing to the edge (imagine slicing a pizza) to create the spooky spiderweb effect.

These Amazon snacks will keep the whole family fueled

There’s nothing kids love more than asking for snacks. Except maybe slime. But especially over the summer, “can I have a snack?” is the song that’s sung in all our homes. Somehow, during the out-of-school months, kids work up the appetite of hard-working farmers and going to the grocery stole daily is just unbelievably inconvenient. Luckily, Amazon comes to the rescue once again. These Amazon snacks aren’t just really good, they’re also easy to order and have on your doorstep (which is especially good when it’s too hot to want to do anything). Plus, they’ll be great for school lunch packing in a few short weeks. While you’re shopping for pool toys and SPF, throw a few of these ultra tasty Amazon snacks into your cart (and snag a few for yourself).

LesserEvil Himalayan Pink Salt Organic Popcorn

LesserEvil

Popcorn is arguably one of the best snacks, and LesserEvil's minimally-processed organic popcorn is an absolute fave. And its seasoned with Himalayan pink salt, which just sounds fancy. LesserEvil Himalayan Pink Salt Organic Popcorn ($16.62)—Buy Here!

Pirate's Booty

Pirate's Booty

These addictive cheddar puffs are a win for the whole crew, especially since they're baked (not fried), and only 70 calories per bag. Pirate's Booty ($14.38)—Buy Here!

GoGo Squeez

GoGo Squeez

With 3 yummy flavors, these applesauce squeeze pouches are awesome refrigerated or not. GoGo Squeez ($11.88)—Buy Here!

Stretch Island Fruit Strips

Stretch Island

6 flavors of non-GMO fruit strips mean you can make everyone happy. Stretch Island Fruit Strips ($25.26)—Buy Here!

RXBAR Mini Protein Bars

RXBAR

RXBARs list all their ingredients right on the front of each package and contain 6g of protein and 2g of fiber. RXBAR Mini Protein Bars ($39.56)—Buy Here!

POPPI Probiotic Sodas

POPPI

Finally, a soda with 5g of sugar or less and probiotic benefits that still tastes like a treat. POPPI Probiotic Sodas ($26.99)—Buy Here!

Trail Mix Snack Packs

Nature's Garden

These trail mix snack packs are chock-full of Omega-3s without any GMOs or preservatives. Trail Mix Snack Packs ($21.94)—Buy Here!

Garden Veggie Straws

Sensible Portions

Garden Veggie Straws are a great alternative to potato chips (not that we have anything against potato chips), and their straw shapes make them a little less messy. Garden Veggie Straws ($6.98)—Buy Here!

Gimme Roasted Seaweed Sheets

Gimme

These are seriously nutrient-dense crunchy snacks that are awesome alone, crumbled over salads, and thrown into lunchboxes. Gimme Roasted Seaweed Sheets ($6.29)—Buy Here!

Simple Mills Almond Flour Farmhouse Cheddar Crackers

Simple Mills

Certified gluten free, grain free, soy free, corn free, gum free, and emulsifier free; Paleo friendly and Non GMO Project Verified. What's not to love about these cheesy crackers? Simple Mills Almond Flour Farmhouse Cheddar Crackers ($5.99)—Buy Here!

Love, Corn

Love, Corn

Love, Corn snacks are incredibly crunchy, plus they're just salty enough to snuff out cravings. Love, Corn ($24.99)—Buy Here!

Bare Baked Crunchy Fruit Chips

Bare

Fruit chips are an easy way to get your kiddos to eat their fruit—you can even put them on top of oatmeal, cereal, and yogurt. Bare Baked Crunchy Fruit Chips ($21.92)—Buy Here!

Skinnydipped Minis Almond Variety Packs

Skinnydipped

If you haven't tried Skinnydipped almonds, you're missing out. They're a sweet snack that you can feel good about eating. Skinnydipped Minis Almond Variety Packs ($27.99)—Buy Here!

KIND Bars

KIND Bars

KIND Bars are like granola bars that got a flow up. They're low sugar and a good source of protein, too. KIND Bars ($16.99)—Buy Here!

Magic Spoon

Magic Spoon

0g of sugar, low carb, and the perfect portion? Magic Spoon lives up to the hype and comes in several kid-friendly flavors (though us moms love it, too). Magic Spoon ($29.99)—Buy Here!

Annie's Organic Bunny Snack Packs

Annie's

Everyone loves a good Bunny Snack, and this variety comes with both Birthday Cake Bunny Grahams and Cheddar Bunnies. Annie's Organic Bunny Snack Packs ($15.99)—Buy Now!

Del Monte Bubble Fruit Snacks

Del Monte

Boba tea is a favorite, so these fruit cups with popping boba balls are super fun, and the new flavor combos are just a bonus. Del Monte Bubble Fruit Snacks ($7.98)—Buy Here!

Orgain Organic Kids Protein Shake

Orgain

For fast breakfasts, nutritional  supplementing, or an easy on-the-go snack, these kid-ready protein shakes are excellent. Available in strawberry, vanilla, and chocolate. Orgain Organic Kids Protein Shake ($20.26)—Buy Here!

Cerebelly Smart Bars

Cerebelly

We're all for easy ways to get kiddos to eat their veggies, and Cerebelly rocks 16 brain-boosting nutrients in all of their products. Cerebelly Smart Bars ($5.99)—Buy Here!

Snack Mates Chicken & Apple Sticks

The New Primal

Not all kids are into jerky, but the mild flavor of chicken and apples make these sticks little one-friendly. Snack Mates Chicken & Apple Sticks ($40.49)—Buy Here!

Blake's Seed Based Crispy Treats

Blake's Seed Based

There's nothing quite like an old-fashioned RKT, but if you'd feel better about them being a little healthier, these treats from Blake's are sprinkled with seeds that we actually think makes them even better. Blake's Seed Based Crispy Treats ($21.99)—Buy Here!

LÄRABAR Kids Brownie Bars

LÄRABAR

Okay, we know they're going to ask for sweets, and these brownie bars deliver with way less worry about junk being added, too. LÄRABAR Kids Brownie Bars ($4.72)—Buy Here!

Nature's Bakery Fig Bars

Nature's Bakery

These are actually even more satisfying than the original fig cookies (not that we have anything against those!). They're also non-GMO and vegan. Nature's Bakery Fig Bars ($22.14)—Buy Here!

Three Wishes Cereal Variety 3 Pack

Three Wishes

You really won't believe how good these cereals from Three Wishes are. They're awesome from the box, with milk, in a snack bag. Adults and kids both are going to ask for it over and over. Three Wishes Cereal Variety 3 Pack ($28.99)—Buy Here!

Snack Peak Nut Variety Pack

Sahale Snack Peak

All you have to do is read all the varieties in this pack and you'll see why they're oh-so-cravable. Snack Peak Nut Variety Pack ($39.99)—Buy Here!

Hint Kids Water

Hint

A great alternative to juice, soda, or sports drinks, Hint keeps them hydrated with fun fruit flavors (and none of the sugar). Hint Kids Water ($14.99)—Buy Here!

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We’ve got quick and easy snacks for a birthday party kids will love

You’ve been prepping for weeks for your kids’ upcoming birthday party. How’s that menu coming along? If you’ve put the food off because you don’t know where to start, fear not. We’ve gathered up a slew of birthday party snacks that include sweets, savory sides, and even healthy options that kids of all ages will enjoy. All that’s left is to decide on the cake, and we’ve got you covered there, too!

Baby & Toddler Birthday Party Snack Ideas

Baby Trail Mix

Baby trail mix is a fun birthday party snack.
Smart School House

Looking for a simple (but healthy) snack for your upcoming baby or toddler party? You'll find both with this baby trail mix recipe from Smart School House. Made with freeze-dried strawberries, yogurt melts, and berry Cheerios, this simple birthday party snack is great for morning or afternoon parties and can be scooped into cups so little hands can stay busy while snacking.

 

Yogurt Melts

 

You don’t have to be Martha Steward to whip up your own yogurt melt for a baby’s party! This easy recipe requires one ingredient (hint: it’s yogurt!) and just a little freeze time. Get creative with different flavors, then divvy up in cups for the perfect (not too messy) snack for party time.

Related: 11 (Free!) Birthday Coloring Pages for Toddlers

Little Kid Birthday Party Snack Ideas

Chocolate Covered Pretzels

Chocolate covered pretzels are a good birthday party snack
The View from Great Island

A bowl of plain pretzels? Not for your party. The best part? They are easy to make because you're starting with store-bought food, AND you can personalize them to your liking! Just grab the chocolate of your choice and lots of fun, celebratory sprinkles to take this birthday party snack from The View from Great Island up a notch!

Pizza Quesadilla

A Taste of Madness

Perfect for that not-quite lunch or dinner party, these pizza quesadillas from A Taste of Madness make a great birthday party snack for little kids through teens. All it takes is four ingredients (and you can easily use whole wheat tortillas to make it semi-healthy) to put together, then serve with an assortment of dips. Good luck keeping the parent's hands off of these!

No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Bites

No-bake strawberry cheesecake bites are a fun birthday party snack
Typically Simple

Raise your hand if you do NOT want to do any baking for your upcoming birthday party. These no-bake strawberry cheesecake bites from Typically Simple are here to save the day! A simple filling goes into fresh strawberries, then dipped in graham crackers for the perfect bite-sized snack for both kids and adults.

BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Buns

The Recipe Rebel

Need a hearty birthday party snack? The Recipe Rebel's BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Buns fit the bill. It takes just 15 minutes of prep time and five ingredients (including store-bought pizza dough) to get these buns into shape. After baking, you can either serve or freeze it for a future party. It's meal prep at its' finest!

Funfetti Dip

Funfetti dip is a sweet birthday party snack.
Shugary Sweets

What's more fun than funfetti dip? We can't think of anything that'll satisfy your birthday party guest's sweet tooth better than homemade cake batter dip made with just five ingredients and literally takes five minutes to make! Don't forget the animal crackers! Get the recipe from Shugary Sweets.

Related: 15 Vintage Birthday Cakes Like Grandma Used to Make

Mini Corn Dog Muffins

Mini corn dog muffins are a perfect birthday party snack.
Bake Me Some Sugar

Corn dogs are cool, but have you had mini corn dog muffins? Great for little hands and perfect for parties, this dippable dish from Bake Me Some Sugar combines a cornbread muffin and a hot dog into a delightful party snack.

Birthday Cake Popcorn

Birthday popcorn is a fun birthday party snack
Peanut Blossom

Kick your popcorn up a notch, birthday style, with this simple recipe from Peanut Blossom. It uses melted chocolate with cake batter mixed in, sprinkles, and M&M's. The best part? You can customize all the decorations to match your party theme!

Banilla Bites

A Helicopter Mom

If you've got a little bit of extra time on your hands, trying out these Banilla Bites from A Helicopter Mom is a no-brainer. Grab the four store-bought ingredients, then get to assembling these adorable mini sandwiches that the kids won't be able to turn down (thanks, sprinkles.)

Easy Meatball Sub Sliders

Meatball sub bites are a good birthday party snack.
One Little Project

Four ingredients, 10 minutes of prep time, and just 15 minutes to bake is all it takes to get these meatball sub sliders ready to go. Great for evening parties or even a fun sleepover, this hearty snack will be a fan fave. Get the recipe from One Little Project

Flourless Monster Cookie Bars

Peanut butter cookie bars are a good birthday party snack
One Lovely Life

Need a gluten and dairy-free snack idea? This birthday party snack from One Lovely Life combines peanut butter, rolled oats, chocolate chips, and M&M's, and bakes for under 30 minutes. You can even customize your bars with a candy color! 

Nutella Deviled Strawberries

Lauren's Latest

Need a healthy birthday party snack? These Nutella "deviled" strawberries spotted over at Lauren's Latest combine fruit and chocolate for fabulous finger food that everyone from toddlers to adults will enjoy.

No-Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars

no-bake peanut butter pretzel bars are a good birthday party snack.
Today's Creative Life

There's nothing like cereal for a late-night snack, which makes these no-bake cereal bars from Today's Creative Life perfect for a slumber party. Combine cereal, pretzels, and peanut butter to get this crunchy snack ready for your kiddos' upcoming bash. 

Sugar Cookie Bars

Chelsea's Messy Apron

No need to whip up dozens of individual cookies when you have Chelsea's Messy Apron recipe for sugar cookie bars. Made in one pan, this chewy and soft cookie is topped with homemade buttercream frosting and sprinkles. Make it yours by customizing with your own party colors!

Related: 51 Totally Goofy Birthday Jokes for Kids

Teenager Party Snack Ideas

Pizza Dip

Pizza dip is a good birthday party snack for teens.
A Subtle Revelry

We know teens will never truly tire of pizza, but if you're looking for a new take then this pizza dip from A Subtle Revelry is here for you. Cream cheese, sauce, pepperoni, and even more cheese are baked together in this surprisingly simple snack, which can be served with crackers or breadsticks. 

Air Fryer Apple Fries & Caramel Dip

Bitz & Giggles

Whether it's a fall-themed party or not, you can't go wrong with air-fried apples and caramel dip! The homemade dip is easier than you think, and making the apples into crispy fries is a cinch thanks to the air fryer you've had sitting on the counter since the pandemic. See how it's done over at Bitz & Giggles.

Pretzel Dogs

Pretzel dogs are a fun birthday party snack.
Food Fanatic

Skip the hot dogs for this party, and whip up some pretzel dogs instead! Yes, this recipe from Food Fanatic calls for homemade pretzel dough, but the added effort results in delicious dogs that will make your party out of this world.

Chicken Nugget Sliders

5 Dollar Dinners

Once you get this recipe for chicken nugget sliders under your belt, you'll be dishing them up everywhere from birthday parties to Super Bowl get-togethers. Hawaiian rolls, nuggets, sauce, and cheese form the base for this mini sandwich that lets you prep over 15 sandwiches at a time!

Slow Cooker Monkey Bread

Slow cooker monkey bread is a perfect birthday party snack for teens
Baked By an Introvert

When you make monkey bread in a slow cooker, you can skip proofing the bread: set it and forget it. This particular recipe from Baked By an Introvert includes homemade bread, but thanks to a stand mixer, is easier than you think. The result? Warm, ooey, gooey dessert that the teens will devour.

Soft Pretzel Bites

Pretzel bites are the ultimate birthday party snack.
Food Fanatic

These soft pretzel bites from Food Fanatic are made with homemade dough that requires no shaping and bake in just seven minutes. While it will involve a little patience as you let the dough rise, the result is buttery, salty pretzel bites that would pair well with pizza dip (see recipe above) or just eaten a la mode.

 

When it comes to feeding our families, parents know that despite our best intentions, sometimes all we can handle is what is quick and easy. But we also know that healthy food choices now set our kids up for better choices as they grow up. So what’s a busy parent to do? We asked some nutritional experts for advice on what to buy at the grocery store to set ourselves up for success, whether prepared foods, frozen veggies, or fresh. So even when you’ve got to bust out the mac and cheese once in a while, take their tips below, and you’ll be on the right track for a happy, healthy, well-fed family.

What to Buy at the Grocery Store

Whole Foods/Georg Beyer

Fresh Seafood

Registered dietician and Fresh Thyme Market's resident industry and retail expert Meghan Sedivy recommends parents make seafood a main source of protein twice a week if possible. “In addition to being a great meatless alternative, fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, sardines, trout or oysters are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids that promote brain and heart health." 

If you're not out there with a rod and a reel yourself, the frozen fish you find at the grocery store is usually flash-frozen for optimal taste and freshness, which makes it easy to have it on hand for a quick dinner. Sedivy reminds us that fatty fish is also, "a great source of vitamin D, the sunshine vitamin, which aids in calcium absorption, immune function, and protecting bone, muscle, and heart health.” 

Whole Foods

Have you ever heard the term “shopping the edges?” It means focusing on the exterior aisles of the grocery store—where the whole foods reside (all the processed food is in the middle). Renowned chef Gerard Viverito, aka “The Sustainable Chef,” stresses the importance of eating whole foods because that’s where you’ll get a nutritional bang for your buck. He says, "emphasize food quality over quantity by focusing on whole, unprocessed foods that are nutrient-dense foods, high in fiber and low in net carbs-but are still packed with other nutrients.”  

Also, according to Nicolette M. Pace, MS, RDN, CDE, CBC, CDN, CFCS, and FAND, you should be paying attention to the labels. “Don't be fooled by packaged items that are marketed as ‘made with fresh fruit’ or ‘contains a full serving of vegetables.’ Single-ingredient foods like an apple or broccoli do not need labels they are whole foods." Instead, Pace recommends that you cut your selections to those with five or fewer ingredients. "More than likely, a paragraph of ingredients will contain additives, preservatives or flavor enhancers which if routinely eaten can harm a child's health.”

Plant-Based Snacks

Often, the snack foods our kids want for lunch or after school are just empty calories. Consider swapping some of them out with plant-based snacks. Kids will still feel like they're eating snacks, but they'll fill up on fiber and protein. Jill Castle, MS, RDN, is a huge believer in plant-based proteins for kids. “For plant-based snack ideas, try edamame in the shell or black bean dip with whole-grain crackers,” she says. Or, if they’re dying to have a favorite like mac and cheese, a plant-based version, like Banza, a high-protein, chickpea-based pasta, is a good substitution. “Not only does it deliver a plant-based source of protein, but it’s also a significant source of calcium and iron,” says Castle. 

vegetables should be on your list of what to buy at the grocery store
FitNish Media via Unsplash

Fresh (and, If Possible, Local) Produce 

When it comes to healthy food, fresh is best. The best way to eat fresh produce is to try to eat seasonally and locally. If you can’t swing that, stick with what’s available or frozen veggies. It’s also important to try to “eat the rainbow,” Pace says. “Start with a list of different fruits and vegetables that are five different colors in a rich rainbow of healthy nutrition for a child's mental and physical growth. A colorful plate of food is not only appealing to kids, but the plant pigments in red, orange/yellow, green, purple, and even white are plant chemicals, which are super-smart superfoods that help keep kids healthy and develop well.” 

Sedivy agrees with this concept. “I always recommend picking up fresh, in-season produce when grocery shopping. Not only do fruits and vegetables add a pop of color to your plate, but they add flavor, and texture and increase your nutrient intake. Aim for at least three different colored fruit or veggie options like blueberries, tomatoes, green beans, or Brussels sprouts to ensure that you are consuming a variety of nutrients.”

Healthy Fats 

Fat can be an excellent source of nutrition; it just depends on what type you're eating, and yes, there’s a difference. Fats from things like avocados, nuts, seeds, and fish are all filled with healthy-boosting qualities. Chef Viverito is a big fan. His list of healthy fat sources includes grass-fed butter, ghee, avocados, coconut oil, MCT oil, olive oil, sesame oil, walnut oil and Malaysian certified sustainable palm oil. He mentions palm oil in particular. “Malaysian palm oil has scientifically proven benefits for the heart, brain and liver. It is loaded with carotenoids, much more than carrots and tomatoes. It’s also much better for cooking and grilling, as it holds up to high heat and has a neutral flavor.”

Pantry Staples

It’s important to have a few basic ingredients on hand at all times, so you can make a homemade meal instead of deferring to pre-packaged meals, so be sure to always have a running list before you hit the grocery store. If you're wondering what you can make with these few ingredients, check out our roundup of pantry meals

What Not to Buy at the Grocery Store

soda isn't what to buy at the grocery store
NeONBRAND via Unsplash

Sugary Drinks

We’ve known about this one for a while, but sometimes it can be tempting to let the kids have that sugar-free energy drink or even the juice box. There’s not only a ton of added sugar in sodas, juices and other flavored drinks, but there are also a lot of artificial ingredients. According to The Sustainable Chef, it’s important to avoid heavily processed fruit juices and sodas. “Clean hydration is important because they help flush your system,” he says. “Water, sparkling water, green tea, black tea, coffee, protein shakes, milk alternatives, vegetable juice, kefir, and kombucha can all offer interesting alternatives to often chemical-laden and heavily processed fruit juices and sodas.”

Processed Foods

Processed foods are another one to avoid if you can. Processed foods are likely to have far more additives and fewer of the micronutrients your body needs. What’s more, they are associated with several negative health effects, including weight gain, diabetes, overall mortality and heart disease. By choosing processed foods over nutritious, whole foods, you may become deficient in micronutrients like calcium, magnesium, zinc, folic acid, and vitamins C, D, and K,” says Chef Vivierto.

Non-Grass Fed or Organic Meats

This can get pricey, but it’s worth it. According to the Cleveland Clinic, while grass-fed meats are the best, organic meat is still better than nothing at all. The benefits of choosing these pricer cuts of meats range from being better for the environment to having more nutritional benefits like extra omega-3 fatty acids, less cholesterol and more antioxidants. 

Pre-Packaged Deli Meats

Turkey, ham and chicken cuts can be a good source of protein for kids, but the pre-packaged stuff has tons of saturated fat and sodium. The Cleveland Clinic recommends selecting fresh deli meats because they have fewer nitrates, look for the leanest cut of meat or a low-sodium option. 

 

 

There’s nothing as motivational as working out with a friend, especially a pal who is on the same health track as you. So when we discovered the #fitmom community on Instagram, an incredibly positive community full of delicious food pics, innovative fitness techniques and life with kids, we knew we had to share more. Scroll down to see which moms we turn to for instant inspiration (especially on the days we can hardly get out of bed!).

 

@bwmcfitness
As a trainer and mom of 4 boys, Jennifer Gelman aims to find the athlete in every parent. Her workout videos and photos are truly fun to see, especially when she incorporates her kiddos into the routine. Nothing will work out your glutes like squatting with a three-year-old in your lap! Follow her at @bwmcfitness on Instagram.

Healthy living isn’t just about getting your reps in and eating right—it’s also about the mindset and finding balance. That’s why we love Brooke Froelich, a momma who tackles life outdoors with her little one. Snow or shine, she always makes sure to get fresh air into her routines. See her trail adventures at @brooke.froelich on Instagram.

@momswearheels
Monica Bencomo of @momswearheels has got the trifecta of healthy living. She’s funny, fit and full of advice for parents who are looking to achieve a balanced lifestyle. While there are not as many photos of food, Monica posts recipes and inspiring before and after photos that get us pumped for a morning workout.

@nomnompaleo
You could plan your entire breakfast, lunch and dinner plans for the rest of the year just by looking at @nomnompaleo‘s Instagram. Michelle Tam is a foodie genius behind an award-winning blog, cooking app and award-nominated cookbook, so there’s no doubt that her family is happily well fed. Plus, they say diet is 70% of the way to getting fit, so follow @nomnompaleo to get a 10% head start.

 

@trishaenriquez
From one mom to another, Tricia Enriquez is a fitness coach that all parents can get behind. Many of her photos feature her adorable daughter dancing or working on that downward dog stretch right beside her. Plus, if you’re all about before and after photos for proof or jumping into a 30-day challenge, @trishaenriquez will satisfy that bug.

 

@thefoodiekids
Sometimes the key to eating happy and healthy is eating with style. That’s why we love The Foodie Kids of Austin. They feature delicious dishes foodie kids are gobbling up left and right. In a very yummy way, @thefoodiekids offers up great ideas on new foods your mini-me might want to try. Sure there are desserts and french fries featured, but life is about balance and @thefoodiekids has got that balance right.

 

@Busy.Fit.Mom
Brooke Amaral of @Busy.Fit.Mom breaks down how to balance fitness, nutrition and mom life in an inspirational way. You can’t help but feel motivated after seeing her sessions. Whether in the gym or outside having adventures with her kids, catch her in action at @Busy.Fit.Mom.

@jennagtaz_fit
Find your “why” and self-confidence with Jenna Guerrettaz over at @jennagtaz_fit. She’s dedicated to helping other moms find their way to a healthier life that fits them. No cookie-cutter advice here. Be sure to add her to your feed ASAP for fit tips.

 

@Caroline_Prestano
We love how honest @Caroline_Prestano is. She keeps it real and gives you doable workouts you can tackle at home (like she does in her basement.) Plus this podcaster has recipes and more for her followers. Follow @Caroline_Prestano to find out more.

—Christal Yuen with Jesseca Stenson

Featured image: Madison Lavern via Unsplash

 

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If you’re homeschooling your children by choice, or you’re doing so because of COVID-19 shutdowns, it’s a challenge. Homeschooling your children can be rewarding, but there are also a lot of things you have to overcome. One issue you may be facing is how to keep giving your kids healthy, nutritious snacks and meals while they’re spending so much time at home. The kids’ meals you feed your family, as well as their snacks, are what will fuel them to perform at their best level during their homeschool day, and the following are some tips and ideas. 

1. Use a Meal Delivery Service
One option that can be convenient and perhaps a lifesaver, especially if you’re working from home at the same time as teaching or overseeing learning, is a meal delivery service. A meal delivery service will bring kid-approved, fresh, and prepared items right to your door. It eliminates the need to do meal prep, and if you go with a delivery service like Yumble, their items are specifically geared toward even the pickiest of eaters. 

2. Create an Idea List
If your kids are a bit older and you want to take some of the work off your plate, you can create a list of meal and snack ideas, perhaps monthly or weekly. Stock the house with the items from that list, and then your kids can refer to it when they’re hungry. They can use it as inspiration to make their own meals and snacks based on what you have at home and what they’re in the mood for. You can make it part of your kids’ responsibilities to mark off any ingredient or food items that you run out of from the list, so you know when to replenish them. 

3. Prep Snacks
You may already be meal prepping for lunch when you’re homeschooling, but don’t forget about snacks. Snacks are an important part of kids’ days and they fill-in nutritional gaps with items they might not get during mealtime. If you meal prep, make time to prepare snacks ahead of time as well. Packs of cut-up vegetables with dips are a good option, as are hardboiled eggs and muffins. 

4. Get Inspired
The following are some ideas you can use as inspiration for lunch ideas when your kids learning at home:

  • Cheese quesadillas on whole wheat tortillas
  • Breakfast for lunch with things like scrambled eggs and pancakes
  • Mini pizzas on pita bread
  • Almond butter and jelly sandwiches

5. Choose Accessible Tools & Storage
Finally, when you’re making lunches and snacks for your kids during the homeschool day, there are some tools and storage containers that can make things easier. You can use mason jars to store items like soup, salads, or fruit and vegetables that you prepare ahead of time. Silicon muffin cups are a fun way to make dips accessible for fruits and vegetables. You can also use color-coded plates and Tupperware so kids can easily find the items meant for them. 

It can be a bit of a challenge to also handle lunches and snacks when you’re homeschooling your kids, but with a little planning, it’s also more than possible.

 

"Rae is a graduate of Tufts University with a combined International Relations and Chinese degree. After spending time living and working abroad in China, she returned to NYC to pursue her career and continue curating quality content. Rae is passionate about travel, food, and writing (of course)."

The holidays are here and your kids are going gaga for candy, cookies and sweets. After all, who can blame them? Before they reach a regrettable sugar rush, read on to hear from Pediatric Dietitian Crystal Tsai. As an Outpatient Pediatric Dietitian at Stanford Children’s Health, Crystal has some pragmatic advice about eating healthy around the holidays. She recently dished to us about holiday health and wellness, healthy snack ideas, what to look out for on food labels and even some surprising foods your picky eater may actually love. Check out the full interview below for words of wisdom every parent should hear.

Red Tricycle: Do you have any go-to rules for eating healthy around the holidays?

Crystal Tsai, MS, RD: I always encourage families to have balance and moderation all the time, including the holidays. It’s okay to indulge in the treats and food traditions that are coming up around the holidays, and at the same time we should continue to include healthy choices to nourish our bodies. Treat the entire day like a normal day—eat a healthy breakfast and lunch and try not to graze while preparing for the big meal. I recommend against fasting the entire day in preparation for the big holiday meal as this can often lead to unhealthier choices due to extreme hunger, such as eating more simple carbohydrates or starches and over-eating. During the holiday meal, plate the vegetables first, then add the other foods. Enjoy your meal and avoid feeling guilty about it. Enjoy other aspects of the holidays that are unrelated to food! The holidays are not all about food, so remember why everyone is gathered together for this.

RT: How can parents create a holiday dinner that feels special but is also healthy?

CT: Include vegetables in as many colors as possible. There are many dishes that could easily include more vegetables if you just get creative with which ones would pair well with the dish. Otherwise, having vegetables on the side works well too, and always put them on your plate.

RT: How many cookies and candies are reasonable for a kid to eat at a holiday event? What about a parent?

CT: This is probably the most difficult question to answer. I can’t put a number on it since it depends on the situation and the treats, but I think the big things to remember are that cookies and candies are treats and should be treated as such. If you’re eating healthfully and filling yourself up with healthier foods first, you might not have much room for more than one or two treats. Depriving yourself or your kids of the treats will only make them seem more desirable and unobtainable, which opens the door to over-eating them at some point. Eating too much can foster feelings of guilt and general physical discomfort. Both ends of the spectrum are unhealthy. I encourage parents and kids to decide together how much of the cookies/candies they want to eat that everyone can feel good about and enjoy, and no one feels either guilty or deprived.

RT: Do you have any tips for adding vegetables into holiday dishes?

CT: A lot of casseroles or side dishes can use vegetables. Add more vegetables than what the recipe calls for. Make a vegetable soup as a side. Make colorful salads. Throw vegetables into pastas.

RT: My toddler likes all the typical kid food—mac ‘n’ cheese, pizza, goldfish. How do I integrate more vegetables into his diet while still ensuring he’s eating enough every day?

CT: Every child is different when it comes to vegetables. Some hate the foods touching and mixing and others prefer it that way. I encourage parents to offer what you are eating (and what you are eating should include vegetables; you are not exempt to your own vegetable-eating wishes for your child!). And, allow your child to decide for themselves if they want to eat it or not. It might take a while before they decide to try it, but if you are modeling eating yummy and healthy vegetables, and you don’t force your child to eat them, many kids eventually decide that they want to try it too.

Aside from that, pasta is probably one of the easiest ways to integrate vegetables. The sauce masks the flavors and most people don’t mind a chunkier sauce filled with vegetables. Another favorite is finger food type of vegetables for toddlers, where they can pick up an entire (softened) carrot stick or zucchini stick or cucumber stick and have fun with them.

RT: Evenings are always a mad rush to get dinner on the table, and it’s even worse during the holidays. Do you have any go-to dishes or advice for busy parents that will help them get a healthy meal on the dinner before bedtime?

CT: A slow cooker! And chopping vegetables/other things ahead of time (or buying them pre-chopped) to save yourself time when you’re really in a bind to throw things together.

RT: What are your recommendations for on-the-go snacks during holiday travel (both homemade and the store-bought variety)?

CT: Healthy snacks should include something high in fiber (such as a fruit, vegetable, or whole grains) with a protein (cheese stick, nuts). The snacks easiest to travel with are probably dried fruit (no sugar added, limit to a handful) and nuts (also limit to a handful). If you can, keep fresh fruits with you or pack mini sandwiches with whole grain bread or pitas stuffed with some veggies and cheese or hummus. Otherwise, I recommend buying things that are higher in fiber (aim for 3 g or more per serving), low in sugar (as low as you can get, ideally 5 g or less per serving) and low in saturated fat (1 g or less per serving). Another good general rule of thumb when reading labels is whether you know what the ingredients are and where they came from. Ingredients with long complicated names are usually more highly processed.

RT: Besides my pediatrician, whom can I talk to or what resources are out there if I have questions about my family’s diet and nutrition?

CT: Registered dietitians (RDs) are credentialed professionals who stay updated on the most evidence-based practices. I highly encourage you to ask for a referral to see a dietitian if you have specific questions. If you are reading things online, the more credible sources are hospitals or articles written by RDs.

RT: My son loves chickpeas. Are there any surprising foods that parents tell you that their kids love that maybe they’ve never considered trying?

CT: My six-year-old niece loves plain, soft tofu with nothing added to it which has always surprised me. I have also heard of kids loving edamame.

Stanford Children’s Health is the only health care system in San Francisco exclusively dedicated to pediatric and obstetric care. With 25 primary care locations throughout the Bay Area, chances are there’s a Stanford pediatrician right in your neighborhood who can fulfill your child’s everyday healthcare needs.

Find a Stanford pediatrician in your neighborhood.

 

Do you have questions about Celiac Disease in kids? Read here for more information from Stanford Children’s Health.

14 Essential Tips for Moms Pumping at Work

However you choose to feed baby—nursing, formula or a combo of both—returning to work after having a baby is no easy feat. And, breastfeeding moms who plan to pump at work encounter a unique set of challenges. Turn your anxiety into confidence with our best tips and tricks for pumping moms returning to work. Many of our staff pumped when returning to the office and we’re dishing insider know-how from moms who have been there, done that. You got this, mama!

1. Fight for Your Rights
Fight for your rights to have a private place to pump. In fact, it’s federal law for employers to provide employees with reasonable break time and a place to pump that isn’t a bathroom. Read more about the federal law here and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself to your employer.

photo: unsplash

2. Make It a Priority
Block off time on your calendar to pump and treat it like an important meeting. Be upfront with your colleagues that this 30-minute window cannot be interrupted or moved. If you’re nervous talking to your non-parent colleagues about pumping, think of it as you educating them about returning to work as a nursing mom and be proud that you’re normalizing breastfeeding and pumping.

3. Choose a Pump That’s Convenient, Comfortable & Effective
The Luna Breast Pump from Motif Medical is built for modern moms who want a pump that maximizes output, has a quiet motor and is covered by insurance. The Luna boasts hospital-strength suction with moms reporting that using the Luna means pumping more milk in less time. Other features include a backlit LCD screen for those late-night sessions, a night light, quiet motor and auto shut off. Learn more at motifmedical.com, buy it on Amazon or use their insurance lookup tool to check your insurance coverage now.

4. Keep It Consistent
Pump every time your child would nurse so generally 3 times a day, depending on your baby’s age and how often she eats. As always, defer to your pediatrician for feeding amounts and schedules.

5. Extra, Extra!
If possible, keep an extra pump, pump parts and pumping bra at work so you don’t have to haul everything back and forth from home to work every day.


Photo: ExplorerBob from Pixabay

6. Stay Hydrated
Most breastfeeding moms will tell you that staying hydrated is essential to keeping your supply up. Keep a big bottle of water at your desk and bring it into the pumping room with you. Forget to drink during the day? Some moms swear by water bottles like this one that reminds you of your intake by the hour.

Pro tip: our editor loves this water bottle for its convenience—you can use it one handed!

photo: Stacy Spensley via flickr

7. Eat Well
Pumping requires calories and keeping up a good supply requires that mama stays nourished. For eight snack ideas that require only one hand to eat, check out this post.

8. Bring Baby with You
Ok, you may not be bringing baby with you to the office, but how about the next best thing? Load up your phone with videos and photos of your little one to help you relax and “let down.” Some moms even watch a video of their baby crying or have a small item of clothing like a hat or shirt that smells like their child.

9. Stay Distracted
Our editors have said that the worst thing you can do is stare at the pumping bottle as it fills (or does not) fill up. Keep yourself relaxed and distracted by queueing up your favorite podcast to take your mind off the task at hand. If you’re nervous that you’re losing out on work time, some moms like to bring their computer in the room to write emails or surf the web while you do it.

Pro tip: one lactation consultant swears by this hack that covers the bottle when you pump.

10. Minimize Cleaning
Pump directly into storage freezer bags. If you’re not sure if your pump allows for that, check Amazon for adaptors. Our editors also suggest storing your pump parts in a ziploc bag and placing in the fridge. Wash everything at the end of the day. If you would rather sanitize every time, some moms like to clean the pump parts with a steam bag after every pump.

photo: Vertie via Pixabay

11. Label It
Bring a sharpie you can label milk with the date and number of ounces. Our Editorial Director used strips of painter’s tape, which she could easily peel off her reusable containers.

12. Transport in Style
Make sure you have a small cooler bag to carry pumped milk back home in. We love these PackIt freezable lunch bags—the freezer gel is built into the lunch bag so you don’t have to worry about transporting gel packs to and from work. Plus, baby can use this lunch bag when he gets to school age.

13. Ask for Help
We can’t tell you how many times our editor has sent her BFF texts in the middle of the night asking everything under the sun about pumping. If you don’t have a tribe to ask questions to, good news: there are plenty of online groups and websites you can turn to for help. From La Leche League to moms Facebook groups to local lactation consultants (ask your doctor for a referral), find the educational tips you need.

14. You’re a Boss
Remember that you can’t do it all and don’t feel guilty about being away from your kid, pumping not as much milk as you had hoped for or blocking off your calendar multiple times in a day to pump. Just take it one day at a time and know thousands of moms experience and feel what you’re going through right now. You’re not alone and you rock!

Have any more tips to add? Send them our way to editor AT tinybeans.go-vip.net.

—Erin Lem, Amber Guetebier and Jennifer Silverstein

 

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