Let’s get talking! Every baby learns at their own pace, but there’s plenty you can do to encourage your little bundle of joy’s first words. Because when it comes to baby language development, the more talking, reading, and singing you and baby do together, the better. So the next time you and your little one have some downtime or need something new to do, try one of these easy games that offer simple ways to encourage those precious first words through play.

But first, a few things to remember about baby speech development. Although most babies start to talk around that one-year mark, they spend lots of time learning how to speak in their first year. They notice how parents, siblings, and others respond when they make a sound—whether it’s a cry, a coo, or a squeal of delight—and learn from it. They start to babble. They point and gesture. They mimic conversation in the most irresistible way. Before you know it, they’ll be talking up a storm. Until then, pull out these baby language development games that are even fun for you, too.

fox puppet

photo: Jess via Paging Supermom

1. Puppets

Make your own puppet (like this adorable fox pictured above), find one at the store, or just slip a sock over your hand. Any way you do it, you can engage your child’s imagination and language skills by creating new characters with different voices. Your baby will be babbling or talking back to your hand in no time. It’s one of the easiest baby language development ideas out there.

2. Mimicry

Go ahead and say “mom mom mom mom” to your little one every day, several times a day if you like! Jackie’s baby at I Heart Arts and Crafts sure thinks it’s funny, and you might, too. Mimic what your baby says to get them in the mood. Even cooing back to the tiniest baby works that part of their brain.

3. Ring Ring

Why not give baby a call and see what they have to say? Babies love pretend telephone calls, and they all involve some important vocabulary: Hello and goodbye, mama, dada, nana, etc. They also get to talk just for the fun of talking. Some kids who are less enthusiastic about talking seem to be encouraged when they get to play with a toy phone that looks just like yours.

4. Tickle My Feet

Help support baby language development when you connect with their toes (and delight them at the same time) with a few rounds of This Little Piggie. Repeat as many times as you both can stand it, as repetition is crucial for babies to learn and understand language. Be gentle on the littlest babies to avoid overstimulation, but older babies may need a tickle tackle when you’re done.

Kitchen tools and toys in a basket

photo via The Magnolia Barn

5. Discovery Baskets

Introduce vocabulary with discovery baskets. They don’t have to be anything fancy – the container and objects can all be things you have around the house. Choose objects based on color, different foods, different textures, shiny things, things that have a smell – whatever you choose, take out each object and talk about it, and let baby play with the objects however they would like.

Related: 16 Books for Babies to Immerse Them in Reading from Day One

6. Counting Game

Research shows that infants are born understanding a bit more about numbers and arithmetic than you might think, and wow, do they love counting. Count three objects or claps with a steady rhythm, “One two three! One two three!” Repeat a few times, and then start counting to five. Create your own counting rhymes about your family or their favorite toys.

7. Big and Little

Help your little one learn the difference between “big” and “little” by giving baby two similar objects of differing size, like a big ball and a small ball. Say “This is the big ball; this is the small ball.” Talk to your little one about what you’re doing as you roll the balls, and ask baby to hand you the big ball or small ball.

8. Baby Jigsaw Peekaboo

Make your own jigsaw puzzle, and baby will be delighted by pictures of other babies, or of the faces of people they know and love. Talk about the puzzle, while you’re putting it together, repeating the names of those pictured. As they grow older, they’ll be able to use the puzzle to practice other skills, such as hand-eye coordination and pincer grasp.

9. I Know My Name

Observe your baby’s reactions to her name. Poke your head in his room and say his name, and then see what happens when you say another name. Insert her name in silly songs, and emphasize it in general conversations. If she reacts to her name, reinforce it. “Shannon likes eating yogurt. Yes, Shannon! We were talking about you!”

10. Talk, Sing, Read: Repeat

The more language they’re exposed to, the better. Narrate everything you do, and everywhere you go. People in the grocery store understand – they’re probably looking at how cute your babe is, anyway, not at you chattering away. Sing every day, even if you can’t carry a tune. Read books every day, even if baby can’t hold their head up. All these interactions are the building blocks of language and literacy.

Related: Spotify Playlists for Babies & Toddlers That Parents Will Actually Enjoy

Let’s get babyproofing around the house

Although it seems like it was just yesterday you were bringing your sweet baby home for the first time, the months have flown by. You’ve joyfully witnessed baby’s first smile, first time rolling over (both ways), and don’t even get us started on how amazing it was the first time baby sat—without padding or leaning on anything. Sounds like crawling is just around the corner—yet another in the line of baby’s firsts. That means it’s time to start babyproofing the place.

Our handy babyproofing checklist includes clever DIY tricks that make your home safer for your child and can save you some money too. Whether you need to babyproof your cabinets, your fireplace, or drawers, these ideas are a great place for any parent to start.

When to Start Babyproofing

As your little one gets close to crawling, it’s time to babyproof your home and other places they visit frequently, like grandparents’ homes. To start, get on the floor and look at the surroundings from a baby’s perspective. See what’s tempting to grab and pull on, what’s at eye level, and what could injure them. Then, put away fragile items, move cords, secure furniture that could fall over, and put padding on sharp edges. Every few months, and when your child reaches a new milestone, like walking, evaluate your home for additional babyproofing needs. As kids grow taller, the danger zones will change and likely increase.

Related: 12 Babyproofing Tips to Corral Your Crawler

Babyproofing Checklist for Your House

1. Secure stairway railings

The railings on staircases or landings on upper floors may look narrow, but they’re big enough for kids’ limbs (or heads) to get stuck in. Secure clear plastic or fabric to railings to deter kids from playing on them.

2. Hide cleaning products

Plastic bins with lids and latches that baby can’t open are a safer place for cleaning products than under your kitchen sink. If you can store them on a high shelf or out of sight in a tall cabinet, that’s even better.

3. Corral cords

Cut a slit down an empty paper towel roll or piece of pipe insulation and thread multiple wires through it to keep them from becoming tangled in your tot’s curious hands. You can also use zip ties to pull together cords and then tuck them far away from baby’s reach. Don’t forget your USB cords that still hold a charge when they’re plugged in.

4. Cover outlets

Plastic covers are the easiest way to cover outlets around the house (and safest too). But in a pinch, or when you’re visiting relatives or traveling, you can put adhesive bandages or duct tape over electrical outlets. Avoid cartoon varieties of bandages that will attract little ones’ attention.

Related: 15 Products You Need When Your Baby Starts Crawling

Renee Servinsky of Sassy Wife/Classy Life

5. Block off the fireplace

Babyproof a fireplace without sacrificing aesthetics too much by covering the opening with a piece of magnetic chalkboard (we love the one above from Sassy Wife/Classy Life). The chalkboard blocks off the fireplace and give little ones a surface on which to draw with chalk and play with magnets (choose large magnets that don’t pose a choking hazard).

6. Place dishtowels out of reach

Nix the dishtowel hanging off your oven door handle. Kids can pull down on it and open a hot oven or bonk themselves with the heavy door. Move towels to a higher shelf or put them on command hooks out of baby’s reach.

7. Test choking hazards with a toilet paper tube

There’s no need to purchase a choke tester. Anything that can fit into an empty toilet paper tube is small enough for your baby to choke on. Keep all those wee things out of reach.

Related: Your Guide to Safe Sleep for Baby

8. Create a TP protector

Babies love to unroll toilet paper as much as pets do. Keep your TP intact and out of baby’s hands and mouth with a two-liter soda bottle! Cut off the top and bottom of the bottle and cut a slit down the remaining center piece. Use tape to cover sharp, raw edges and slide the container over your toilet roll to cover it. See the tutorial at My Frugal Baby Tips.

9. Protect with pool noodles

These summertime staples can be used for everything from door stoppers to crib-rail covers that prevent tots from rolling out of bed. They’re also good for wrapping around sharp edges, like around the fireplace, to minimize bumps and scrapes.

10. Pad corners with tennis balls

Tennis balls can soften sharp corners where a pool noodle doesn’t fit. Cut a few small slices into the ball’s core so you can wedge it over items like table corners. It may not look pretty, but this hack is pretty temporary. Before you know it, your toddler will be steady enough on their feet that you no longer feel the need to protect every corner in your home.

11. Shorten pull cords

Use clothespins or twist ties to shorten and hold up pull cords on curtains and blinds to remove this strangulation risk from your home. Command hooks are also handy for keeping cords out of reach.

12. Sock it to knobs

To keep little hands from turning door knobs, cover them with a spare sock and wrap a hair tie or rubber band around the base to hold the sock in place. An adult can still squeeze and turn the handle, but a child won’t be able to.

13. Band together on horizontal cabinets

Attach hair ties or rubber bands to keep paired cabinet doors closed. Just loop the tie around the handles and your baby will only be able to open the doors a little bit, not wide enough to slip a hand through.

14. Get a handle on vertical drawers

Slide a yardstick or tension rod (or another long, thin object) through the handles of horizontally stacked drawers, rather than spending time and money on individual locks.

Make sure to capture photos of your baby crawling around their newly babyproofed pad—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.

Finding the perfect gift isn’t always easy, but there’s one surefire way to ensure you feel good about what you purchase and that your recipient feels the same. Choosing products from a brand that not only creates something high-quality but also offers tangible solutions to one of the biggest problems facing our modern world: homelessness.

That’s why we love Bombas. They make sustainably crafted, long-lasting socks, t-shirts, underwear, and slippers that are as comfortable as they are attractive. For every single item purchased, Bombas will donate one to someone experiencing homelessness. Every. Single. Item. That means if you get a four-pack of socks, four pairs are donated. A three-pack of t-shirts? Three tees are donated. In this way, you can purchase gifts for the people you love and spread that love throughout the community and the world. Read on for our picks for the top five gifts to snag right now from Bombas.

For the New Father:

Father Baby Gripper Slipper 2-Pack

$59.85 BUY NOW

There’s cozy, and then there’s new-baby, stay-at-home-and-cuddle cozy. For those dads out there with a new baby, this set includes two pairs of Gripper Slippers, a half-sock, half-slipper hybrid soft enough to wear all day long. Choose one pair in dad’s size, and the other pair will fit a baby 6 to 12 months old. We love that the donation also includes keeping another baby’s toes warm.

 

 

For Any and Every Woman

Women's Holiday Calf Sock 4-Pack

$60.60 BUY NOW

For the woman who has everything she needs, trust us: she still needs these socks. Not too high nor too low, they are the perfect combination of form-fitting and soft and work great with boots, sneakers, or just wearing around the house. The four-pack includes four different pairs, and you can choose from a variety of color schemes and patterns. And true to their commitment, Bombas donates four pairs of socks for this purchase.

 

 

For Big Kids:

Youth Merino Wool Calf Sock 4-Pack Gift Box

$54.00 BUY NOW

One size fits most kids between the ages of 5 and 11, making this four-pack set versatile for kids of a wide age range; they’ll last long enough to pass them down to younger siblings too. Perfect for cooler months, the wool keeps them warm but is soft and not itchy. The socks provide enough structure to stay in place and not slouch, making them great under boots. There are two different color palettes to choose from, and the set also comes in a cute little gift box. And, like the women’s four-pack, four socks purchased mean four pairs donated to a kid in need. Epic win.

 

 

For the Little Ones

Toddler Snowflake Gripper Calf Sock 4-Pack Gift Box

$38.00 BUY NOW

This limited edition set of Bombas holiday socks comes in a snazzy tube that slides perfectly into stockings and comes packed with four pairs of perfect-fitting socks for kids ages 1 to 5. The Gripper socks work great on slippery floors and have a seamless toe designed to avoid that annoying bump and negate the battle to line up the socks “just so,” and are particularly helpful for children with sensory sensitivities. Plus, let’s be honest: your toddler will play with the gift box for days, so it’s really a twofer.

 

 

 

For Any and Every Man

Men's Sunday Slipper

$75.00 BUY NOW

Getting the father figure (or grandparent, boyfriend, uncle or brother-in-law) in your life slippers might seem cliche but hear us out: all slippers are not equal, and these are the ones he will wear again and again and think happily of you every time. They have a layer of memory foam and a rubber sole, making them easy to wear around and outside the house. The slippers are lined with a sherpa-like material inside, so they’re warm enough to wear without extra layers. They have a classical feel that fits all kinds of personalities and styles. It’s the kind of underrated gift that will give them years of happiness.

Use code TINYBEANS to get 20% off your first order (applies to first-time shoppers only) on the Bombas website! Buy one to donate one!

Want to take the kids ice skating? These family-friendly outdoor ice skating rinks in Chicago are perfect for beginners

Sock skating on a wooden floor might be fun (have you ever tried it?), but there’s nothing like feeling the cool breeze on your face as you glide across a real ice rink. It’s time to lace up your skates for an essential winter activity. Keep reading to find great places to ice skate in Chicago. Many are free, some are new—and most offer loads of other activities in the same location. So after attempting a few figure eights (or, you know, just making it from one side of the rink to the other), you can cozy up with Santa or warm your bellies with a cup of hot cocoa.

best ice skating in chicago
Rosemont

 

1. Parkway Bank Park

In the wintertime, Parkway Bank Park in Rosemont offers skating in the park, where The Chicago Wolves ice rink takes center stage with the perfect ticket price: free! You're allowed to bring your own skates, but if you need to rent a pair, they're available on site for $8. Easy parking and plenty of dining options round out the seasonal fun. After untying your skates, head over to the Sugar Factory and warm up with over-the-top hot cocoas.

Between Nov. 18 and Jan. 1, make it a full day of wintry fun by visiting the Sparkle Light Festival at Impact Field. You'll be treated to tubing, a holiday market, festive food and beverages, Santa's workshop, a train ride, and holiday crafts, all amongst an immersive display of more than one million holiday lights.

Dates: Nov. 19-Jan. 29

5501 Park Pl.
Rosemont
Online: rosemont.com

2. Millenium Park

Spectacular city skyline views will be your backdrop when you take a spin at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park. Reservations are required for 90-minute skate sessions. Once again this year, the rink will offer free ice skating lessons on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 to 10 a.m. (Skate rentals are extra.)

Dates: Nov. 18-Mar. 5

201 E. Randolph St.
Loop
Online: chicago.gov

3. Maggie Daley Park

The Maggie Daley Park ice skating ribbon is one of the best spots in the city to skate a figure eight. Meanwhile, the railing that lines the loop is the perfect pick-me-up for wobbly skaters, young and old alike. Tickets are released on a rolling basis at 12 p.m. on select dates. Check their website for the release date schedule.

Pro Tip: A skate assist sled is available for use by skaters with physical disabilities and their companion skater.

Dates: Nov. 18-Mar. 5

337 E. Randolph St.
Loop
Online: maggiedaleypark.com

4. Winterland at Gallagher Way

New this year, the ice rink at Gallagher Way will be moved into Wrigley Field as part of their Winterland attractions. It's open for skating and bumper car riding. Admission into Winterland is $5. Skating is additional. Visit prior to Dec. 31 and shop Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville, Chicago's take on a traditional German Christmas market. Shop, eat, enjoy free entertainment, shop some more, and even say "guten tag" to Santa Claus. Admission to Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville continues to be free.

To learn more about Christkindlmarket's two locations, read our review here.

Dates: Nov. 18-Jan. 8

3650 N. Clark St.
Wrigleyville
Online: gallagherway.com

5. Brookfield Zoo

Brookfield Zoo's Holiday Magic is Chicagoland's largest and longest-running lights festival featuring over a million twinkling LED lights, and it's best enjoyed on ice. Take the family to circle the skating rink on the East Mall.

Dates: Nov. 25-Dec. 31

3300 Golf Rd.
Brookfield
Online: czs.org

6. Navy Pier

Although not outdoors, Navy Pier's Light Up the Lake ice rink provides all the holiday feels that make it worth mentioning. This indoor, temperature-controlled experience features a sprawling light garden of large-scale sculptures comprising more than 600,000 twinkling lights, a massive Alpine ice rink, authentic beer garden, kiddie train rides, Santa's Merry Main Street and gift market, and other family friendly and date-night activities.

Dates: Nov. 25-Jan. 7

500 E. Grand Ave.
Streeterville
Online: navypier.org

7. Watts Center at Watts Park

Double the fun! Watts Center boasts not one but two outdoor ice rinks. Tucked away in north suburban Glencoe, this gem offers figure skating lessons, ice hockey and recreational skating. When the conditions allow, you can also play on the sled hill. Check their calendar for themed skate sessions, like Glow Skate, Skate & Create, Holiday Skate, and more.

Dates: Nov. 25-Feb. 26

305 Randolph St.
Glencoe
Online: glencoeparkdistrict.com

8. Midway Plaisance

Feel the history in the air at Midway Plaisance ice skating rink, the original site of the world-famous Chicago's 1893 World's Fair. Skating is free and skates are available to rent. You can request sled-assisted skating, which allows people of all abilities to skate together, by calling 312-442-2194. Skate trainers are also available at the rink, first-come, first-served, for children new to skating.

While you're in Hyde Park, visit the Museum of Science & Industry's Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light and be enchanted by the trees and displays decorated to represent the rich multicultural heritage of Chicago.

1130 Midway Plaisance North
Hyde Park
Online: chicagoparkdistrict.com

9. Peninsula Chicago

Located above Michigan Avenue, the Peninsula Sky Rink is the only hotel skating rink in the city, now in its 10th year. Surrounded by skyscrapers and the glow of twinkling lights, the synthetic rink is tucked into a winter wonderland with festive music and dazzling snowflake lighting. Warm your bellies on a selection of hotel beverages and snacks at the Chalet.

Skates are available to rent with proceeds donated to Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago and Hephzibah Children's Association.

Dates: Nov. 25-Feb. 28

108 E. Superior St.
Near North Side
Online: peninsula.com

For up-to-date information on ice rinks operated by the Chicago Park District, check out their dedicated Skate in the Parks page. 

—additional reporting by Debra Flanagan

Wait until you see the McDonald’s french fry toddler Halloween costume!

There’s no doubt your little pumpkin will look adorable in any costume, but if you’re eager to flex your creative spirit this Halloween and pull out all the stops for that must-have photo op, you’ve come to the right place. From stunning and elaborate to creative and hilarious, we’ve narrowed our top picks for the cutest and most clever toddler Halloween costumes. We can almost hear the “oohhs” and “awwws” now!

Teal, Yellow and Pink Butterfly

If you’re looking for a unique, show-stopping costume, this butterfly flutters to the top of the pack. To make this exact costume you’ll need Martha Stewart paints, stencils, and plenty of cardboard. Head over to Tell Love and Party for all the details.

Cabbage Patch Doll

The beauty of this toddler Halloween costume is that you can order it! Now, will they keep the wig on long enough to hit the trick-or-treat circuit? That’s another question all together.

Circus Animal Cookie

This circus animal cookie costume hits all the right notes. It’s colorful, cozy, and completely original. Visit A Joyful Riot for all the details on how to re-create this sprinkled-covered costume. Although this tutorial was technically designed for a baby, you can easily adapt it for a toddler or big kid. Just buy bigger clothes and be prepared to cut out a few more circles—it’s that easy!

Related: Family Halloween Costumes That Are a Freakin’ Delight

BB-8 & Rey

Halloween costume inspo is bubbling over on Lauren Mancke’s Insta feed. The talented designer highlights a costume (or three) a day throughout October. Mom to twin girls and a son Fox, she motivates everyone to scratch that creative itch and go big this season! She also offers tons of great ideas on family costumes, like this deep sea Odessey your whole crew will love.

Pretty Peacock

It may not feel like it, but the amount of time you’ll get to dress your kids up for Halloween is finite. So why not go all out while you can? This Peacock costume is stunning and will make for the most beautiful photos. Use this image as inspiration or follow this step-by-step tutorial to create a similar look.

Carousel Horse Toddler Halloween Costume

Save those amazon boxes! This DIY costume uses the most versatile material around—cardboard. Find all the details on A Joyful Riot, including a template that will get you on your way to replicating this amazing Carousel horse for your sweet trick-or-treater.

McDonald’s French Fry Box

The cutest fast food order we’ve ever seen. Even better, the accessories you’ll need can be picked up with a quick trip through the drive-through!

 

Astronaut Jetpack Costume

Sure you can find an astronaut costume online, but if you want to shoot for the stars you can create your own. Check out Bravery Magazine for all the details on how to make this out-of-this-world costume.

Related: Deceptively Easy Baby Costumes Made with a Onesie

Treasure Chest

Ahoy, me hearties! Why not turn your biggest treasure into a pirate’s booty this Halloween? Use this costume by Wild Ink Press as inspiration to turn that cardboard box into a golden treasure chest. Even better, you can play along by dressing up as a pirate yourself. Family costume, complete!

Awesome Octopus

Sewing skills are required for this adorable octopus costume, which comes complete with soft, squishy tentacles for your little one to play with. If you’ve got the skills and some time, the final result is so worth it. Check out the project at Mermagblog.

Army Guy

Halloween only comes around once a year! So if you don’t mind going through lots of green spray paint, this costume will turn heads and make your little soldier the talk of the town. Check out the full tutorial here. 

Rainbow Wagon

Incorporating a wagon into your toddler’s costume is brilliant for so many reasons. So, when we saw this rainbow weather costume from Studio DIY, we instantly fell in love. Use the wagon as a base, toss your little cloud in, and you’re guaranteed a night of trick-or-treating that doesn’t need to end early! There are tons of options for turning it into a family weather costume, like the sun and rain you see here or even a snowflake or lightning bolt for siblings.

Baby Owl Toddler Halloween Costume

Toddler Halloween Costume
The Love Notes Blog

Whooo is the cutest child around? Yours, of course. This DIY costume takes a little time and patience, but it’s worth it to see your baby owl looking cuteand feeling comfortablein the final result. For step-by-step instructions, go to The Love Notes Blog.

Birthday Cake Costume

A birthday cake for Halloween! Yes, please. This sweeter-than-sugar costume is just what you need to flex your creative spirit and give your little one a costume they’ll never forget. A Subtle Revelry shares all the details on how to make this dreamy fit.

Tiny Toadstool

Wispy House

This teeny, tiny toadstool makes an excellent sidekick for a mini Mario Bros or a fairy princess. Wispy House has all the info on how to make this magic mushroom.

 

Hey Mamas (and of course Papas) out there!

Let’s talk about crafting with your kiddos.

I know, as parents, we always like non-screen activities for our kids. And one of the best ways to do that is to help them with simple arts and crafts!

However, you may be thinking, “UGH. What a mess it will make.” Or, “I’m sure they’ll fight with each other while sitting at the table together.” Or “I wonder if I have all the supplies I need?” And, “How can I help all of them at once?”

And if you are thinking these things, let me tell ya, I’m right there with you!

However, there are a few simple ways to make crafting with your kiddos a bit easier, and a more calm, enjoyable experience.

1. Plan the Craft Ahead of Time

So, if you’re like me, I’m not a big planner by any stretch of the imagination. I watch in envy as organized people get things done calmly and perfectly.

However, I do try to hone these organizational skills at least a little. One way you can do this with crafts for kids is to plan ahead. And by this, I mean, pick maybe 2 or 3 crafts to do with your kids for the week. Pinterest is a great place to research easy crafts.

Then look at the supply list which is usually provided in the instructions, and make sure you have all the materials you need. And if you don’t just add them to your supermarket list for when you go out next time. Or order from Amazon! Hey, even easier, head to your neighbor’s house and see if they have some supplies to share.

Just be sure to have all your supplies handy and ready to make your crafts for the week.

2. Set Up Your Craft Area

Next, it’s time to set up your craft area. You could choose a space on your countertop, dining room table or some people even have rooms dedicated for crafts.

Just clear off the area you are going to use, mine is usually the dining room table. Stuff somehow, every day, every minute, every hour, gets accumulated on there. So the first thing I do is to clear off the stuff that’s somehow piled up on there. Must be gremlins or something.

Then, once you have a clear surface to work on, set up a designated station for each of your kids. Place all the supplies out that they will be using, in the order that they will most likely be using them in. This is so they have their own station with supplies to use, and they’re not fighting over each other’s stuff. I tell mine if a dirty, stinky old sock was on the ground and one wanted it, then the other ones would insist on having it too! ;)

So set up those nice, neat craft stations—just don’t expect them to stay neat for long.

3. Enlist a Craft Helper

Ok, so it really is nice to have another adult on hand to help, especially if you have multiple, preschool-age children. So if grandma is coming to visit maybe plan the craft for that day.

Or, if it’s a more in-depth activity, maybe plan it on a weekend when your partner may be there to help out.

However, if there are no other adults available, I have my older children help a younger one. They may not be thrilled but it will be a good experience for them, teaches them about helping others, am I right?

Also sometimes if I explain the craft or experiment before starting, then the older kids can complete it independently. This allows me the freedom to help the younger ones. And don’t worry, once they get into a “craft routine” the process will go much more smoothly!

4. Expect a Mess

Ok, parents, so this is where we lower our expectations. Those beautifully staged photos of kids doing crafts, laughing merrily, clean and well-dressed, with their mom standing over them smiling happily and calmly helping? Well, let’s face it, that’s (usually) not the way it works.

Mine are usually completely covered with paint or glue, the table is also strewn with the same sorts of materials. So make sure if it’s a messy project, to put some newspaper or plastic table cloth down to protect your surface. Make sure they are dressed in old play clothes too.

An easy-to-clean rug or hardwood or tile floor under your workstation helps too because some of the craft and activity supplies are bound to sneak their way to the edge of the table and fall onto the floor.

Remember, it’s easy to be annoyed by messes but it really doesn’t take all that long to clean up. Don’t forget to get the kids involved in the clean-up process as well!

Crafting with Kids

Have I convinced you to check Pinterest for craft ideas, gather your kids up and get your crafting supplies out yet?

I certainly hope so!

And remember it’s ok to lose your mind sometimes…just as long as you find it again. ;)

But, in all seriousness, I hope these steps will help make the crafting and activity process a little easier for both you and your little ones

Have fun, and as I’m sure you’ve heard before…time goes by fast and they’re only little for such a short amount of time. So make the most of it!

RELATED STORIES:

Hey there! I'm a wife, mom, homebody and lover of all things home and family. I'm also the author of the blog Dappled Skies and Diys. Over on the blog I share simple DIY projects, kids' crafts and activities, and gardening tips along with a few mom-life stories for fun!

Your guests will love these baby shower game ideas

When you’re planning the activities for a baby shower, you’re looking for games that are easy to learn, fun to play and not likely to make guests cringe. These games are all that and more.

ABC Baby Book

cuppacocoa

The prize for this game goes to the mom-to-be, who gets a homemade alphabet book crafted by her favorite people. Let guests choose what image to draw for each letter or, if you think they'll need inspiration, choose a theme for the book (it can even match the shower theme). Stop by the cuppacocoa blog for a free template and full instructions.

Baby Guess Who?

iStock

Maximum fun with minimal prep work: Guests email you baby photos of themselves prior to the shower, and you print them up, number each one, and create a display on a wall or table. Print out numbered sheets where guests can try to match each guest to the pictures. 

Year One Bucket List

Keababies

There are so many memorable things parents can do with their baby in the first year, but with baby brain, it can be hard to remember to do them. Have guests write down one first-year bucket-list item (from blowing. bubbles to visiting the zoo) on a note card and drop it into a basket for the mom-to-be to take home. Bonus points for using a diaper caddy as the basket, like the one above from Keababies, since the mom will find this invaluable for diaper changes. 

Clothing Decorating Station

Lovely Indeed

Fill up baby’s wardrobe with customized outfits using blogger Lovely Indeed’s decorating station idea. Provide solid-colored baby clothes in a variety of styles and sizes, fabric markers, iron-on designs, and an iron. Your friends will have fun designing these tiny outfits, and Mom will get one-of-a-kind baby gear made with love.

Wishes for Baby

Art Bar

Ask every guest to share a wish for the new baby in this sweet idea from the Art Bar blog. Use pastel card stock and the blog’s free animal templates, or use scrapbook paper and your own shapes for the cards. Hang ribbon and small clothespins on your wall so guests can post their wishes for everyone to read.

Candy in a Baby Bottle

Sharon McCutcheon via Pexels

For a super easy game, fill baby bottles with a set amount of small candies, like sprinkles. Place a bottle at each table with a note that asks guests to guess the number of candies. This game doubles as an icebreaker as tablemates try to figure out the exact number. At each table, the person with the closest guess can win the candy.

Play-Doh Creations

Joao Cachapa via Pixabay

Give each guest a container of Play-Doh and 15 minutes to sculpt a baby-related masterpiece (like a baby, pacifier or bottle). Let the mother-to-be pick her favorite to win a prize.

Hand-Crafted Baby Blocks

Fireflies and Mudpies

Ask shower guests to show off their artistic sides by decorating baby blocks. Provide blank wooden blocks, markers, stickers and more (Fireflies and Mudpies has instructions for making these textured blocks) and let your guests get creative. After the party, paint the blocks with a natural wood varnish for a special gift for baby.

 

Children's Book Quiz

iStock

For a book-loving mom-to-be, set up a quiz with trivia from classic children’s books. Or, create a fill-in-the-blank quiz with titles of children’s books. This is a good way to get guests chatting, as they remember their own childhood favorites.

Match the Socks

Cheski Sock Company

All you need to play this game are a bunch of new baby socks in different colors, patterns, and sizes and a cute laundry basket. We love the sock bundles from Cheski Sock Company, shown above. Throw the unpaired socks into the basket, set a timer, and have each guest match as many as they can in one minute. Mom-to-be gets a laundry basket and a great sock collection for baby, and your friends get a workout and some laughs. 

Katie L. Carroll

featured image: iStock

 

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When it comes to little girls and easy hairstyles, more often than not, the responsibilities are relegated to moms. But there’s no reason why dads can’t be in charge of whipping up a spectacular ‘do, too. Whether you’re a first-time hairstylist or a seasoned hairbrush pro, there are plenty of inspirational and instructional hair tutorials online that can teach virtually any dad how to become a hairstyling pro. Read on to view some of our favorite dad/daughter videos below. 

8 Easy Styles Any Dad Can Do

This video includes eight different styles, including braided ponytails, buns with braids and more. Be sure to order ponytail holders before you get started!

Low Pigtail Braids

Perfect for a bike ride, or a day at school, Daddy Daughter Hair Factory can show you how to perfect the low pigtail braid hairstyle. Don't forget the wet brush for tangles!

Easy Styles That Take Little Time

"Maddy and Daddy" bring you some easy hairstyles like a ponytail, twist bun and pigtails that you can totally pull off. 

Braided Buns, Top knots, and Princess Ringlets

With more than 1 million followers on Instagram, Mike Worthington and his daughter Asia have become such a viral sensation with their fun online hair and fashion tutorials that they've taken their show on the road with a Daddy Does Hair roadshow!

The Daddy Sock Bun

Featured on DadsDoHair.com, a Facebook community that features real dads giving instructional videos on quick and advanced hairstyles for other dads (and moms) looking to learn to do with their daughter's hair, this video shows an ingenious use of an old sock to create a beautiful hair bun.

Simple Fishtail Braid

Bryan Leffew is a stay-at-home dad who has been doing his daughter Selena's hair since she was a baby. In this video, Bryan practices a simple braid for one of Selena's upcoming performances at school

Spinning Hair Bun

War veteran and police officer Manny Colon offers up a novel approach to creating the perfect hair bun for his daughter Lily. Hint: it doesn't involve a vacuum cleaner, but it doesn't require some fancy footwork from Lily.

Slicked-Back High Ponytail

This father has a rather interesting way to create the perfect high ponytail on his daughter. Ta-da!

Flip-Through Ponytail

Entrepreneur Mark Peters offers some helpful, pain-free hints on how to transform a low ponytail into a flip-through pony.

Double Hair Buns With Diagonal Parts

Breeze_N_Dad's YouTube channel and Instagram page feature plenty of simple and lovely hair styles that most dads can do for their daughters, including this adorable double hair buns with diagonal parts style. Having a comb will help perfect the part.

Toddler Pigtail Braids

Dad does his baby girl's hair, with guidance from mom.

Dutch Braid

As a single dad, Philippe Morgese taught himself how to do his daughter Emma's hair. What began as father-daughter bonding turned into Daddy Daughter Hair Factory, a popular Facebook community and live workshops that teach other dads how to do their daughters' hair.

Three Easy Hairstyles

Filmmaker Steven Miranda shows three easy hairstyles that any dad can do.

Dealing With Thick Hair

Dad Olu offers up easy tips for kids with thick hair, just like his adorable daughter Kemi. Find out more about this adorable duo by clicking here.

— Kipp Jarecke-Cheng

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Feature photo: Gift Habeshaw via Unsplash

So, for my little monster’s second birthday she got a MONSTER (shocking) pajama party.  Complete with monster paper dolls, sock monster favors, and, of course, a monster cake!  It couldn’t be a monster party without a monster cake.

What you will need to create your own monster cake:

  • a round cake pan
  • a cake mix or a homemade one frosting, dyed to your desired color
  • sixlets, in your chosen color/s
  • paper eyeballs
  • wooden skewers
  • hot glue gun & glue stick

For my eyeballs, I used Photoshop Elements to create what I was looking for.  I created one orange and one pink, those were our party colors.  I went with only two eyeballs for my monster; but you could definitely add or subtract from this, there are no rules when it comes to monsters!

Once I was done I printed them out, glued them to some grey cardstock to make them sturdier, and then hot glued them to two wooden skewers.  With them attached to the skewers, I can just poke them into the finished cake wherever and however I choose.

I used a 7 inch round cake pan, you can use whatever size or shape suits you and your monster needs.  As I said with the eyeballs, there are no rules when it comes to monsters!

I used box cakes and store bought frosting because baking is not always my strong suit, and, honestly, it is just simpler.  I first dyed my frosting a light pink so that the bits that could be seen would match. Then I baked, I cooled, I frosted, I stacked, I frosted the rest and then the real fun began.

I got out my massive amount of orange and pink sixlets and started covering the cake.  I started in the middle of the top and worked my way out and then down the sides.  I picked the two colors at random, just reached in and pulled out.  You could easily make a pattern out of it if that’s what you want.

It was tedious; but, eventually, the cake was covered in the sixlets and looking like a scaly, bumpy, pink, and orange monster.  I situated it on the platter, poked the eyes into place, and voila!

There was singing, wish-making followed by cake slicing and eating!

I also made cupcakes, as the cake was not very big, and I always love to make too much.  I made smaller eyeballs and hot glued them to toothpicks for the cupcakes.  The cake ones would have been oddly huge on the cupcakes.

 

I'm a stay-at-home mother of three amazing kids.  My days are filled with bus stops, cleaning food off the walls, changing diapers and tackling the perpetual mountain of laundry.  And I wouldn't trade it for anything!

Nostalgia alert! Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots are making a comeback—on the big screen.

The beloved childhood game is back and battling again. Instead of battling on your kitchen table, these robots are duking it out in a new feature film.

photo courtesy of Businesswire

The live-action adventure is a collab between Mattel Films, Universal Pictures and Vin Diesel’s One Race Films. Not only is Vin Diesel’s production company bringing the battling bots to life, the actor is starring in the flick.

Diesel said in a press release, “To take the classic Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em game, with Mattel as my partner, and align it with the kind of world building, franchise making success we have had with Universal, is truly exciting.”

Robbie Brenner, executive producer of Mattel Films added, “We are proud to bring this iconic piece of Mattel IP to life on the big screen with our tremendously talented partners Vin Diesel, One Race Films and Universal.”

Currently, there is no release date for the film, but stay tuned.

—Erica Loop

 

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