There’s one universal truth in parenthood—there’s never enough time to make dinner. We’re always running someone to soccer practice, fighting giant piles of laundry, and trying to work a full day in between. The solution: 5-ingredient recipes that you can whip up in a flash. These easy meals are very kid-friendly, and mostly rely on items you’re likely to already have in your pantry so you won’t have to make a separate trip to the store (who has time for that?). We’ve left out some of the more obvious choices because we know you’re already a pro at grilled cheese, taco Tuesdays, quick eggs, and the like. Consider your meal plan done!

Creamy Tomato Tortellini with Pesto

The base for this filling dish is cheese-filled tortellini, which is pretty much the most kid-friendly pasta around. Add some mini meatballs or sliced pre-cooked sausage if you want to up the protein in this dish.

5-Ingredient Lemon Chicken with Asparagus

Pinch of Yum 5-ingredient lemon chicken and asparagus
Pinch of Yum

Whether you go with chicken thighs or chicken breasts, this recipe from Pinch of Yum is super flavorful and easy to make. The citrus from the lemon is mellowed out with honey to satisfy those picky palates.

Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps

We love how flavorful these lettuce wraps are. Butter lettuce works best and you can serve it over rice for those picky ones in your family.

Easy Crockpot Ranch Chicken

If your kid isn’t a Ranch fan yet, now is the time to indoctrinate them. This 4-ingredient recipe from The Cookie Rookie makes kid-friendly chicken in a veg-free sauce, so you’re more likely to avoid the mealtime tantrums.

5-Ingredient Coconut Curry

5 ingredient coconut curry
Pinch of Yum

There’s something super comforting about this coconut curry from Pinch of Yum. It uses chickpeas instead of meat so that means it will come together super fast.

Paleo Gnocchi Bolognese

Your family won’t even know that you’re using Trader Joe’s cauliflower gnocchi as the base of this delicious dish.

5-Ingredient Zucchini Fritters

This recipe is a great way to use up your summer bounty of zucchini. We suggest cooking them on your electric griddle if you have one.

Pa Amb Tomàquet (aka Catalan Tomato Bread)

Any vehicle for including more ripe tomatoes in our lives is a must-try. Also, this bread looks like a fun way to get the kids in on the cooking action.

Garlic Butter Chicken and Brussels Sprouts

Not only does this recipe only have 5 ingredients, but it’s a one-pot wonder as well. Chicken thighs, Brussels sprouts, and garlic are the main players in this flavorful dish.

5-Ingredient Chili

5 ingredient chili Gimme Some Oven
Gimme Some Oven

We love a chili recipe that comes together in a flash. You can even sub in meatless crumbles if you’d like to make this recipe from Gimme Some Oven vegetarian.

5-Ingredient Trader Joe’s Branzino

This recipe uses three of our favorite TJs items: branzino, lemony arugula salad kit, and frozen country potatoes.

One-Pot Pasta

Kristine's Kitchen Blog one pot pasta
Kristine’s Kitchen Blog

One-pot meals are a weekday dinner staple, and this one from Kristine’s Kitchen Blog serves up sausage with pasta. Bonus: You don’t even need to drain the pasta as it cooks right in the sauce.

Lemon Butter Scallops

5 ingredient lemon butter scallops Damn Delicious
Damn Delicious

Head over to Damn Delicious to snag this recipe that cooks up quickly and is great paired with asparagus or broccoli.

Quick Duck Stir Fry

A stir fry is a great way to use up any veg that might be sitting neglected in the bottom of your fridge. This one uses duck, but you could easily sub in chicken if you prefer.

Instant Pot Short Rib Ragu

Pinch of Yum 5 ingredient short rib ragu
Pinch of Yum

Our advice for this full-of-flavor recipe from Pinch of Yum is to double it. It’s that good.

Spaghetti Carbonara

Any meal that starts with cooking up some bacon is destined for greatness, and this spaghetti carbonara from Damn Delicious is no exception.

Instant Pot French Dip Sandwiches

You’ll get lots of flavor development in a short amount of time with this recipe from Amy + Jacky. We like to serve it on toasted ciabatta rolls topped with Swiss cheese.

Trader Joe’s Chicken Tikka Masala

@lainiecooks

4 ingredient Trader Joe’s Chicken Tikka Masala 🔥 #traderjoes #traderjoesmeals #easydinner #chickentikkamasala

♬ vlog, chill out, calm daily life(1370843) – SUNNY HOOD STUDIO

Our biggest dinnertime hack is using Trader Joe’s items to create a meal that is full of flavor and short on cooking time. This chicken tikka masala is the perfect option when you need dinner on the table ASAP.

Viral Feta Pasta Bake

@kelseyoppenheim

Someone stop me from eating this daily 😩👏🏻😍 #traderjoesfoodreviews #traderjoes #fetapasta #traderjoescookbook

♬ Jazz – Aylior

This recipe has been all over TikTok, and we totally understand the hype. You just throw some cherry tomatoes and feta in the oven to bake and boil up some pasta to mix in at the end. What could be easier?

Cacio e Pepe

We love that this pasta recipe is full of flavor but contains no visible vegetables that may turn your crew off dinner. Gimme Some Oven explains the easy steps to making this Italian favorite.

No-Fuss Prime Rib

Save this recipe for the holidays when time is short. You’ll impress your guests with homemade prime rib, we know it.

Trader Joe’s Lobster Bisque Pasta

Yes, this recipe uses Trader Joe’s lobster bisque to make the creamy sauce, and we are here for it.

5-Ingredient Chicken Lo Mein

@kennedychugg

Replying to @user9761876775593 CHICKEN LO MEIN 🍜😋 …or is this chow mein? I get so confused 😩 INGREDIENTS: ramen, chicken, veggies, soy sauce, oyster sauce 🍴 Add seasoning to your chicken then fry on high heat. Remove and add veggies to pan. Boil noodles for 3 mins or package directions. Mix osyer sauce, a splash of soy sauce, ramen seasoning, and water. Combine everything and enjoy! If you want to 🤌🏼 jazz it up 🤌🏼 add garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes to your veggies when cooking! #budgetmeals #51030meals #ramennoodles #lomeim #chowmein #dinnerideas #easydinnerideas #cheapeasymeals

♬ Keep Dat Clean Radio Edit By iCandy – Soap Radio. 🧼

This is an easy (and cheap) way to make those ramen packets into a dinner the whole family will love.

Now is the time to deck out your backyard for summer. Kids’ playhouses—which afford the same amount of fun without the possibly (probably) very germy play places—are selling like hotcakes. We discovered some of the most popular kids’ playhouses parents are buying right now, from beloved brands like Little Tikes and Step2. Are you going for the wooden playhouse in a modern style or opting for the epic two-story playhouse with a slide? Read on to find your perfect match!

Cozy Escape Wood 2-decker Playhouse with Twisty Slide

two story townhouse style playhouse
Bed Bath & Beyond

It's the New Orleans vibes for us, but the twisty slide doesn't hurt. 

Cozy Escape Wood 2-decker Playhouse with Twisty Slide ($1,217.69)—Buy Here!

KidKraft Wooden Playhouse

two little girls playing in outdoor modern playhouse
KidKraft

We love this white playhouse that allows you to jazz it up with their favorite colors! There's picnic seating on one side and a serving window on the other. 

KidKraft Wooden Playhouse ($299.98)—Buy Here!

Step2 All-Around Playtime Patio

Step2

This fun option combines a playhouse and water table for hours of outdoor fun. The little grill and removable canopy are the icing on the cake!

Step2 All-Around Playtime Patio ($178.02)—Buy Here!

Barbie Seaside Wooden Outdoor Playhouse with Attachable Doll Table and Chairs

barbie themed kids playhouse
Walmart

Literally what else could your Barbie-loving kiddo ask for? This is perfect for those warm spring and summer days.

Barbie Seaside Wooden Outdoor Playhouse ($379.00)—Buy Here!

Farmhouse Style Playhouse with Flower Boxes

white farmhouse style playhouse
Wayfair

This lovely playhouse includes a built-in kitchen, adorable wooden play food, and cedar window boxes to create your own potted garden!

Farmhouse Style Playhouse with Flower Boxes ($949.00)—Buy Here!

Montessori Wooden Playhouse

Etsy

This adorable playhouse is full of learning opportunities. Made out of Baltic birch plywood, it is designed to encourage children's creativity, communication skills, fine motor skills and first educational skills. With numbers, letters, clock parts and mathematical symbols, there's tons for kids to do. Bonus: it's super easy for parents to put together without any additional tools needed!

Montessori Wooden Playhouse ($801.90)—Buy Here!

Sunny Solid Wood Playhouse

Wayfair

Made out of durable wood, this playhouse is fun for the little ones. Flower boxes and a wooden table make this one extra cute, too.

Sunny Solid Wood Playhouse ($189.99)—Buy Here!

Play & Fold Away Modern Farmhouse

white tall kids playhouse with slide
Target

Not only is this cute, but the best part is the unique folding mechanism that allows it to be easily stored when not in use and the carrying handle that makes this the most convenient climber for your family!

Play & Fold Away Modern Farmhouse ($169.99)—Buy Here!

Yurt Playhouse

Etsy

How cute and boho is this yurt-shaped playhouse that doubles as a playpen for babies? We can totally see this set up as a backyard oasis with tons of pillow poufs and some twinkle lights. 

Yurt Playhouse ($1,113.27)—Buy Here!

Backyard Discovery Cedar Playhouse

Amazon

This cedar playhouse comes with a stove, a toy sink and a play cordless telephone for extra fun when friends come over.

Backyard Discovery Cedar Playhouse ($280.98)—Buy Here!

Reign Two Story Playhouse

two story playhouse with swingset
Maisonette

What a stunner, right? With a kitchen downstairs, little living space upstairs, and a slide and swings to boot, you can't go wrong here.

Reign Two Story Playhouse ($3,900.00)—Buy Here!

Waldorf Playhouse

indoor arch playhouse
Etsy

This open-ended play structure is full of pretend-play opportunities for kids of all ages. Snag that cloth covering as an add-on and you'll have shade from the summer sun if you want to place it outside. You can also add on the play stove if you want to get your kids cooking. 

Waldorf Playhouse ($413.01)—Buy Here!

Lattice Fence Detail Playhouse

green and blue plastic kids playhouse
Fruugo

This playhouse comes with a little door flair, plus an outdoor grill space.

Lattice Fence Detail Playhouse ($1,049.00)—Buy Here!

—Kate Loweth & Kate Cartia

 

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

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

All images courtesy of retailers.

 

Somehow, 2024 is absolutely flying by. Summer break is around the corner. It feels like we’ve been going, going, going since December. If you’re finding yourself starting to feel a little more stress than you were expecting as the weather warms up, we fully understand. Aside from really encouraging you to do your best to focus on self-care, hydrating, and getting the rest you need, we’ve got another idea. We want to give you a little stress relief inspo with the ultimate in stress relief: a mom-friendly getaway. And for that, you’ll need a relaxing vacation rental.

Doesn’t seem possible? It is. We promise. You don’t have to book a week at a resort in the Bahamas to unwind (although if you do, we’d love to join you!). Sometimes a weekend away is all we need to get our bearings and recharge. Of course, if you’re already feeling spread a little thin, you probably don’t want to do the research on that. And that’s where we come in! Whether it’s a trip for two or somewhere for the whole gang (and their crew!), we’ve set you up below. These are the best mom-friendly relaxing vacation rentals out there to help get you balanced, grounded, and fully refreshed.

Freehand Cellars Airstream | Wapato, WA

airstream trailer with deck in desert at night
Airbnb

The Airstream is iconic, so this is a definite Bucket List rental! Add the location (steps away from Freehand Cellars Tasting Room and surrounding Yakima Valley) and the amenities (hot tub and views) and you get an epic getaway.

Guests: 3
Cost Per Night: $144.00

Freehand Cellars Airstream | Wapato, WA—Book Here!

Bell-Zwart Lodge | La Grange, CA

Airbnb

If peace and quiet is your jam, the Bell-Zwart Lodge surrounded by rolling hills, lakes, and 59 miles to Yosemite National Park would be perfect. Plus: cows. 

Guests: 9
Cost Per Night: $183.00/night

Bell-Zwart Lodge | La Grange, CA—Book Here!

Leaf Treehouse at HoneyTree Farm | Fredericksburg, TX

Airbnb

A grown-up tree house nestled in the Texas live oaks, just 10 minutes from historic Fredericksburg, TX? Add a reading nook, hot tub, rain shower, and beautiful views, and you have one magical stay.

Guests: 2
Cost Per Night: $338.00

Leaf Treehouse at HoneyTree Farm | Fredericksburg, TX—Book Here!

Indio Hills Desert Escape | Indio Hills, CA

Airbnb

This one is ready for the whole crew! It sleeps 16, so a girls trip or extended family vacation would easily fit. 20 minutes away from everything, a saltwater infinity pool, tanning shelf, swim-up bar, and Palm Desert vibes? We're there.

Guests: 16+ (bring all your friends!)
Cost Per Night: $438.00/night

Indio Hills Desert Escape | Indio Hills, CA—Book Here!

Glamping Luxury Tent for 2 | Moab, UT

Airbnb

This is a one-of-a-kind destination on 80 acres of secluded land in Moab on the Crooked Bindi Ranch! Furnished with luxury hotel-grade beds and linens and complete with a private bathroom built into the red rock landscape itself, it's luxe with a wild streak.

Guests: 2
Cost Per Night: $222.00

Glamping Luxury Tent for 2 | Moab, UT—Book Here!

Naturalist Boudoir | Lumberton, TX

Airbnb

Privacy is no problem at this beautiful B&B in the heart of the Big Thicket. Hot tub and outdoor shower complete this cozy and romantic escape!

Guests: 2
Cost Per Night: $301.00

Naturalist Boudoir | Lumberton, TX—Book Here!

The A-Frame at Creekside Dwellings | Beach City, OH

Airbnb

A sweet spot near Amish Country, this A-frame home offers privacy, views, and a hot tub. Rustic on the outside, bright and breezy on the inside. Oh, and that hot tub...

Guests: 2
Cost Per Night: $170.00

The A-Frame at Creekside Dwellings | Beach City, OH—Book Here!

Walkin' After Midnight Cabin | Broken Bow, OK

Airbnb

Another larger property for a group getaway, this luxury cabin is absolutely loaded with amenities! A 16ft deck, hot tub, built-in grill, and incredible views are all included, and then some.

Guests: 15
Cost Per Night: $513.00

Walkin' After Midnight Cabin | Broken Bow, OK—Book Here!

The Loft House | Athens, GA

industrial interior of home rental
Airbnb

The epitome of modern, the updated inside is just as fabulous as the outside! This home has a private yard with 8ft privacy fence, 25'x25' basketball court, putting green, horseshoes, and more.

Guests: 8
Cost Per Night: $185.00

The Loft House | Athens, GA—Book Here!

Updated Retreat with Saltwater Pool | Kissimmee, FL

glass enclosed indoor pool and deck
Airbnb

If the stunning pool, game room, and community playground aren't enough, this property is just 5 miles from Disney World! If you idea of relaxation is being surrounded by all your friends and family and lots of sun and fun, this retreat is a win.

Guests: 12
Cost Per Night: $294.00

Updated Retreat with Saltwater Pool | Kissimmee, FL—Book Here!

Scandi Cabin | Asheville, NC

small rustic cabin and firepit
Airbnb

This beauty was featured on the Design Network's Tiny BnB, it's a nature-lover's dream destination! The open-air porch features a wood-burning stove, and the property boasts a hot tub, fire pit, and nearby hiking trails.

Guests: 2
Cost Per Night: $237.00

Scandi Cabin | Asheville, NC—Book Here!

Arbor Crest Cottage | Darlington, WI

dark cottage in the woods
Airbnb

Lovingly referred to as a "farmette" by the hosts, this precious abode includes goats, chickens, ducks, a hammock, and a modern-farmhouse vibe.

Guests: 4
Cost Per Night: $94.00

Arbor Crest Cottage | Darlington, WI—Book Here!

Taos Skybox Horizons Studio | El Prado, NM

exterior of box home in desert
Airbnb

This level of serenity is unmatched. Both rustic and modern, this studio-style rental is 15 minutes from the Taos Plaza and right under the vast starry skies!

Guests: 2
Cost Per Night: $159.00

Taos Skybox Horizons Studio | El Prado, NM—Book Here!

Blue Heron Hideaway | Mineral, VA

updated lakefront home
Airbnb

A brand new home situated on the private side of Lake Anna, this group-ready home even includes 120ft of sandy beach and a furnished deck!

Guests: 16
Cost Per Night: $216.00

Blue Heron Hideaway | Mineral, VA—Book Here!

Formosa Valley Resort | Four Corners, FL

patio with small in-gound pool
Airbnb

Star Wars, Harry Potter, and Mickey, oh my! 10 minutes from Disney World, this townhouse even has a patio pool!

Guests: 8
Cost Per Night: $118.00

Formosa Valley Resort | Four Corners, FL—Book Here!

A-Frame in Door County | Sister Bay, WI

aerial view of a-frame in woods
Airbnb

Beach-front-like living in Wisconsin? This A-frame has you covered! It's located on the shores of Lake Michigan and is large enough to host a group.

Guests: 8
Cost Per Night: $345.00

A-Frame in Door County | Sister Bay, WI—Book Here!

The Steel Pueblo | El Prado, NM

container home in the desert
Airbnb

We're loving the El Prado, NM properties, mostly because of the views! This is such a unique rental created with a modified shipping container, surrounded by mountains, and close to town and all the adventures it offers.

Guests: 2
Cost Per Night: $156.00

The Steel Pueblo | El Prado, NM—Book Here!

Hawkeye Dome | Yucca Valley, CA

pool view into the desert
Airbnb

Hawkeye Dome was featured on the May 2019 cover of Dwell Magazine, so you'll understand why it was so hard for us to pick just one picture to feature! This dome-style rental feels off-the-grid and luxurious and is close to hiking, views, and feels like your own little oasis.

Guests: 6
Cost Per Night: $310.00

Hawkeye Dome | Yucca Valley, CA—Book Here!

Mesa Tiny House Oasis on Alberta | Portland, OR

interior of tiny home in portland, or
Airbnb

Nestled in the middle of the Alberta Arts District in Portland, this adorable tiny home is at the heart of all the action. You won't have to go far (though you might not even want to! This house is so lovely inside, too.)

Guests: 2
Cost Per Night: $74.00

Mesa Tiny House Oasis on Alberta | Portland, OR—Book Here!

Cargo Home Glamping on Lake Conroe | Willis, TX

exterior of container home
Airbnb

We didn't think we'd ever put "romantic" and "shipping container" in the same sentence, but here we are! This rental includes a heated pool, rooftop deck, and is only 30 minutes from The Woodlands and an hour from Houston.

Guests: 2
Cost Per Night: $159.00

Cargo Home Glamping on Lake Conroe | Willis, TX—$159.00

Royal A-Frame | Front Royal, VA

grey a-frame cabin exterior
Airbnb

Featured in The Washingtonian, this A-frame sits in the Shenandoah Valley. Of course that means stunning views come with the home, along with access to wineries and breweries, hiking, biking, and so much more!

Guests: 6
Cost Per Night: $116.00

Royal A-Frame | Front Royal, VA—Book Here!

Rustic Retreat | Maggie Valley, NC

exterior of midcentury modern home in valley
Airbnb

This home, designed by Norwegian architect Bernardo Rostad, sits at the base of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It's definitely for those looking for a truly rustic experience with a spring-fed pool and hot tub!

Guests: 4
Cost Per Night: $295.00

Rustic Retreat | Maggie Valley, NC—Book Here!

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

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

All images courtesy of retailers.

Spring break is here. Summer is coming. And for moms with kiddos on school break, that means one thing: swimming. But as much as we love splashing with our little ones, the struggle is real. Between chasing after the kids and jumping in with them, finding the right swimsuit cover-up can lead us straight down the street to Old Oversized T-Shirt Lane. We’ve all been there—trying to wrangle our little ones while simultaneously trying to look okay and, y’know, not fall out of any part of our swimsuit at the pool. These mom-approved Amazon swimsuit cover-ups are gonna be a game-changer.

Swimsuit cover-ups the ultimate mom hack to make us feel more comfortable and confident while still enjoying the sun and water. And let’s be honest, they’re often much cuter than our actual swimsuits (unless you follow our swimsuit guide, in which case, they’ll be equally as cute). Regardless, something to throw on during swim days are a must. So, in honor of all the swim-loving moms and their splashy babes out there, we’ve put together a list of the best mom swimsuit cover-ups from our favorite partner in parenting: Amazon. Snag one or three—we’re going to be ready for anything this summer. We’re moms, afterall. We have to be.

Collared V-Neck Cover-Up Shirt

Ekouaer

If you're into cover-ups that don't have to look like cover-ups, this pullover collared v-neck shirt is perfect! Available in multiple colors.

Collared V-Neck Cover-Up Shirt ($27.49)—Buy Here!

Chiffon Tassel Swimsuit Cover-Up

Yincro

Who doesn't love tassels? This poncho style is also super comfy.

Chiffon Tassel Swimsuit Cover-Up ($26.99)—Buy Here!

Button Down Long Cover-Up with Side Slit

Uvog

For those of us who prefer some extra coverage, this long shirt dress style delivers. It also goes from beach to brunch in a snap.

Button Down Long Cover-Up with Side Slit ($32.99)—Buy Here!

Patterned Kimono

woman wearing black and white robe-style swimsuit coverup
La Blanca

Prefer patterns? We've got you! This kimono style comes in lots of patterns, so you'll be able to match your suit, too.

Patterned Kimono ($63.61+)—Buy Here!

Crochet Detail Cover-Up

Adisputent

Wait until you get see the back of this beauty! You'll probably want more than one—we sure do.

Crochet Detail Cover-Up ($25.99)—Buy Here!

Long Tie-Dye Kimono

Bsubseach

This one works as a cover-up or as a light layering piece over a tank top. Lots of patterns available, too.

Long Tie-Dye Kimono ($29.99)—Buy Here!

Spaghetti Strap Wrap Cover-Up

Fadalo

Yes, the user reviews suggest there's a bit of a learning curve for throwing it on, but it's a super popular cover-up that really is really comfy once you get the hang of it!

Spaghetti Strap Wrap Cover-Up ($30.99)—Buy Here!

Loritta Crochet Front Cover-Up

Loritta

This flowy cover-up is almost too pretty to wear to the pool. Almost.

Loritta Crochet Front Cover-Up ($16.99)—Buy Here!

Crochet V-Neck

Jeasona

Talk about staying cool! This breezy cover-up  is light enough for hot summer days.

Crochet V-Neck  ($19.99)—Buy Here!

Tie Waist Kimono

woman in green beach kimono
Bsubseach

The waist cinch on this kimono is so flattering (and prevents the wind from giving you a Batman vibe).

Tie Waist Kimono ($28.99)—Buy Here!

Short Tank Dress

woman in pink and green printed tank dress
Jar of Love

Nothing says "summer" quite like this classic tank dress! It comes in lots of colors and patterns. Short Tank Dress ($18.89+)—Buy Here!

Mid-Length Kimono

multicolored kimono
Breezy Lane

How pretty is this color combo? If that's not your thing, though, they offer several other options!

Mid-Length Kimono ($25.96)—Buy Here!

Deep Vee Mini Dress

Hout

The stretchy fabrication of this mini dress makes it oh-so-comfy!

Deep Vee Mini Dress ($25.98)—Buy Here!

Off-the-Shoulder Slit Tee

Ekouaer

We're not totally anti-tee as long as it's a super cute one like this!

Off-the-Shoulder Slit Tee ($23.99)—Buy Here!

Lace-Up Cover-Up

woman in off-white fitted beach coverup
Bsubseach

More of a fitted silhouette fan? This one is for you!

Lace-Up Cover-Up ($27.99)—Buy Here!

Bat Wing Button-Down Oversized Cover-Up

Ekouaer

This loose and flowy button-down is a boyfriend style that comes in a lot of different prints.

Bat Wing Button-Down Oversized Cover-Up ($27.99)—Buy Here!

Cover-Up Dress with Pockets

AI'MAGE

Honestly, this one had us at "pockets".

Cover-Up Dress with Pockets ($24.99+)—Buy Here!

Off-the-Shoulder Floral Cover-Up

La Blanca

With an off-the-shoulder silhouette and pockets, this is maybe the perfect cover-up.

Off-the-Shoulder Floral Cover-Up ($65.08+)—Buy Here!

Sheer Wide-Leg Cover-Up Pants

Ruewey

Available in several colors, these cover-up pants are perfect for combining with one of the tops or with a tee, too.

Sheer Wide-Leg Cover-Up Pants ($18.99)—Buy Here!

Kaftan Cover-Up

Bsubseach

Golden Girls chic? Absolutely nailed it. This boho-meets-beach town piece comes in a bunch of colors and it's so pretty.

Kaftan Cover-Up ($29.99)—Buy Here!

Spaghetti Strap Romper

Snugwind

Prefer a one-and-done option that's not a dress? We've got you covered.

Spaghetti Strap Romper ($28.99)—Buy Here!

Babydoll Dress

Wander Agio

The '90s are back and this babydoll dress cover-up proves it.

Babydoll Dress ($19.99)—Buy Here!

Sheer Ruffle Sleeve Cover-Up

Billabong

We're loving the combination of the higher neckline and sheer fabric.

Sheer Ruffle Sleeve Cover-Up ($37.74+)—Buy Here!

Plunging Neck Lace Cover-Up

Floerns

Not quite ready to cover it all up out of the water (you look great in that swimsuit, by the way)? Reach for this pretty cover-up.

Plunging Neck Lace Cover-Up ($25.99+)—Buy Here!

 

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

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

All images courtesy of retailers.

We want our kids to be liked, so when they’re not picked for a team or their BFF suddenly switches to another friend group, it’s almost (but not) harder for us than for our littles. After all, we want to help them build self-confidence and self-esteem, and when our kids feel left out, we’re stuck trying to figure out what to do.

“When a parent feels that their kid has been slighted, a lot of times they want to fix it right away, but they need to learn to pause,” says Katie Hurley, a child and adolescent psychotherapist and author of the award-winning book No More Mean Girls: The Secret to Raising Strong, Confident, and Compassionate Girls.

That’s right, Mom and Dad. Our kids have got this—at least, most of the time. Read on to learn how to build self-confidence and self-esteem in kids when they feel left out and when you should (and shouldn’t) get involved.

First of all: Don’t tell your kids, “It’s not a big deal.”

Even at the most “inclusive” schools, your child’s school day holds a veritable minefield of opportunities to be excluded. A friend is sitting at a different lunch table? That’s a blow! A BFF chooses to play kickball instead of the usual recess chat session? Ouch! These moments might seem trivial to you, but these everyday moments are loaded with meaning for kids.

“Lunch is always a hard time because sometimes lunch tables change without warning. If your child is used to sitting with a certain group of kids one day and then someone suddenly switches to another table, it can feel really hurtful,” says Hurley. So resist the urge to tell your kid not to worry, and just empathize.

Empathize—and resist the urge to fix it.

If hearing that another child ignored your kid on the playground makes you want to go full Mama Bear, hold up. Letting your kids deal with their dramas may not be so bad. Hurley, who also wrote The Happy Kid Handbook: How to Raise Joyful Children in a Stressful World, explains, “You don’t become resilient if you don’t go through hard things. Building distress tolerance is important.” Some things you can say:

  • It’s hard to feel left out.
  • I get it.
  • It looks like that really hurts.
  • I would feel lonely, too.
  • That sounds really hard.

Don’t try to rationalize (at least, not yet).

If your kid just found out they weren’t invited to a sleepover, now’s not the time to tell them how most parents can’t handle a soccer team-sized gaggle of kids on their living room floor. Let your child feel all the feelings and save the rationalizing for later.

“The child is feeling hurt and rejected, so your rationalizing and making it better is not addressing their hurt. Respecting where they are with feeling hurt is a top priority,” explains Jennifer Miller, founder of Confident Parents Confident Kids, a website based on Miller’s book of the same name.

Once your child has expressed their feelings and seems out of the red zone, that’s when you can try to give them an explanation.

Then, shift into problem-solving.

Once your child has felt all the big feelings and seems calm, try to shift the conversation to the future. If the problem is not having someone to play with at recess, for instance, talk about some easy ways they can learn to approach a group (this LifeHacker article has some good tips) or what other options there may be during that time frame (some schools allow kids to go to the library).

Talk about “Friendship Seasons.”

If your child’s best friend seems to be suddenly pulling away, remind your child that it doesn’t mean it’s forever. Parents should tell their kids that friendships may come and go like “seasons.”

“Sometimes friendships feel like summer all the time—you’re playing every day and everything is great—and then all of a sudden it’s winter,” Hurley said. “You can say something like, ‘It sounds like it’s time for a pause on this friendship.’”

Make a friendship map.

Hurley suggests that parents have kids draw a map of all the places they go–including sports teams, religious school, and extracurricular classes—and name all the kids who are their friends in those places. This helps them realize that while they may have their core besties at school, they’ve got buddies in other places, too.

Don’t make the other person the bad guy.

While it may offer consolation to say things like, “He’s just jealous” or to dismiss the offender as being “mean” or a “bully,” putting down the person who is doing the excluding only teaches your kid how to exclude, too! It also zaps any opportunity for your child to come up with solutions to the problem.

If the issue is one person dictating the games at recess, for instance, calling that friend “bossy” doesn’t make it better; but teaching your child how to develop—and enact—a turn-taking system does.

Don’t compliment our kids to make them feel better.

We’re parents; it’s natural to look for a way to build kids’ self-confidence and self-esteem when they’re down. But while our first reaction may be to praise them (“But you were the best one there!” “You’ll get it next time!” “I still love you!”), this may not always work when our kids are feeling left out.

“When we say something back to them to make them feel better . . .  it actually lowers their self-confidence,” clinical psychologist Dr. Becky Kennedy said in this viral TikTok video. “Confidence isn’t feeling good about yourself; confidence is self-trust.” Instead, she said parents should say things like:

  • “I’m so glad you’re sharing that with me.”
  • “Tell me more.”
  • “Keep going.”

Kennedy said, “When we show our kids that we’re not scared of their experiences, they learn not to be scared of those same experiences.”

Know when it’s FOMO.

Nobody can go to every event, party, and sports game happening on any given Saturday—despite how some kids may feel. So if your kid breaks down when they find out something is happening without them, try to remind them of all the activities and events they are doing.

Talk about inclusion.

Now that your child knows what it feels like to be left out, you’ve got the perfect opportunity to talk to them about how it may feel for others. Don’t do this when your child is upset; instead, keep it in your back pocket to bring up later. “Kids should know that sometimes they will be excluded and sometimes they will be the excluder. That can begin to open up conversations about being inclusive,” says Hurley.

Realize that there’s a silver lining.

Sometimes, being left out can be a powerful motivator. Not making the soccer team may push an aspiring soccer player to practice more; conversely, not getting a part in the school play may make a child realize they don’t like acting that much anyway.

Even more importantly, feeling left out is a perfect opportunity to build empathy. “It really hurts to be left out, to feel rejected, but it allows kids to begin to empathize and have compassion for others who are marginalized and to learn how to be an inclusive child which is not automatic,” states Miller.

Know when something more is going on.

If your child is perpetually feeling left out, you might want to do a little digging to figure out what might be going on. “A lot of times the kids who are always left out are the ones who keep to themselves or who hang back and wait to be asked,” Miller says. Those kids may need a little more coaching to step into things on their own. If you know they want to be in the talent show, for instance, help them find a group long before the week of the show.

Of course, if the issue is bullying or a child feeling excluded from all social events, you may want to talk to a teacher or the school psychologist or find a therapist to help your child. “Deliberately being left out because kids are being unkind, that’s never a good experience. That’s a different conversation,” Hurley says.

Related Story: 7 Things You Can Do If Your Child is Being Bullied

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

Summer, and the hot weather that comes with it, is just around the corner, which means preparing yourself for spending hours near/in/by the water. Your best bet? Swimming pool games don’t require props and promise hours of poolside perfection for mom and dad. From Marco Polo to sharks and minnows, our favorite pool games mean one thing: you’ll be traveling light all summer long. If you don’t have your supply of swimsuits yet, be sure to check out the best suits for every mom bod and our favorite swimsuits for kids!

Wishing Well

Similar to Treasure Dive, Wishing Well sends players on a search for coins at the bottom of the pool. This version, however, involves lining participants up shoulder-to-shoulder with their backs to the pool while someone throws a handful of loose coins into the water. The players then dive into the pool to collect the coins before they land on the bottom. Let the players keep their coins as a prize or collect them all and toss them again.

Popsicle

If you’ve ever played freeze tag on dry land, this is exactly that, only in the shallow end of the pool. Start with one person as “it,” and have him or her tag the other players, who are swimming. When tagged, a player must stand frozen like a popsicle until another un-tagged player can thaw him out by swimming underwater between his legs. Just be sure to change the “it” person every so often to avoid having pouty kiddos in the pool.

Treasure Dive

Who needs fancy dive sticks or expensive torpedoes when you’ve got a public pool and a kid with goggles? Just in case you’re a little afraid of what Junior might find, take a handful of coins and toss them in the water to focus his search.

Funny Hair Competition

You know you’ve done it. If you ever had hair longer than shoulder-length, you’ve done the George Washington (emerged from underwater with your hair flipped down over your face, then rolled it back over your head for a stylin’ Colonial-era ‘do). Other classics include the dinosaur (spiked hair), Princess Lea (dueling buns), and the sweet roll (spiraled over the entire head).

Submarine Races

Racers become human submarines as they race underwater to see who can get the farthest without emerging for air. The key to a successful submariner is a strong start, followed by efficient flutter kicks. Some have been known to dive deep early so as not to lose momentum on the surface mid-pool.

Underwater Tea Party

Goggles come in handy here. In an underwater tea party, two players must sink to the bottom of the pool where they sit criss-cross-applesauce and partake in a fancy tea fit for a queen. Pouring from imaginary teapots, stirring imaginary cups of tea, offering each other lumps of sugar, and passing trays of finger foods and sweets are par for the course.

Sharks & Minnows

While there's debate as to the proper starting position of the minnows (in the water or out of the water on the far side of the pool), and variation exists on the proper call to action by the shark (“Sharks and minnows, one, two, three. Fishies, fishes, come to me!” versus “Fiiiishies! Come out and plaaay!”), there’s no debate this classic swimming pool game will be entertaining our children’s children for summers to come. Could there be anything more thrilling than narrowly escaping the touch of the treacherous shark?

Octopus

The goal is to be the last swimmer unattached to the human chain of “outed” participants. The octopus begins with one player who tags another player who then must link arms with one another (hence the growing octopus). As the octopus grows and the number of unlinked players diminishes, it gets trickier and trickier to evade the “tentacle” of players in the pool.

kids playing pool games
iStock

Atomic Whirlpool

Part pool game, part magic trick, this game involves a line of kids inside the pool but along the edge (in the shallow end). Have them walk, then jog, then race as fast as they can—still in single file—around the perimeter of the pool and then yell “switch!” When they turn to run in the opposite direction, the current will keep them from running, but certainly, increase the laughter factor. Bonus? Running in the pool will wear. them. out.

Chicken Fight 

We give the namesake of this game two thumbs down, but the pool game is a solid 10 in our book. Be sure to set the bar high when you define the rules of engagement before shouldering up. Chicken fights are played with a minimum of four participants (two “bases” and two “chickens” who each climb onto the other player’s shoulders). A chicken can push, pull, tickle, tackle, and splash the other chicken off its base to dominate as World Chicken Champion (until the next round, anyway).

Pool Pizza

This variation on colors involves one person—the “it” one—being named the chef. Other players pick their favorite pizza topping and group together. When the chef calls out their topping, those players swim to the other side of the pool. If the chef catches you, however, you go straight into the pizza “oven” (the out area, usually on the stairs or along one wall).

Mermaid Splash

Little mermaids take turns swimming with their ankles together, then go underwater and rocket out of the water with their arms in the air (a la Ariel in The Little Mermaid) to see who can jump the highest out of the water.

Slingshot

Who doesn't have a great memory of being catapulted from the water by mom or dad? Turn this classic parent-child bonding (or sibling) sesh into a friendly competition to see who can go the furthest, the highest, or do the coolest trick in the air.

Splash Dance

Choreograph your own water ballet to go with one of your favorite songs. Perfect for a solo endeavor or with friends (think synchronized swimming), this pool game is video-record-ready!

Secret Message

Think Telephone but underwater. For this swimming pool game, choose one person to relay the message (usually one or two words). Then the "guesser" goes underwater with the messenger and tries to guess what they're saying. You can make it easier by offering hints like theme, color, category, etc. Kids who don't swim in deep water can participate in this pool game because they can dip their faces in to hear the message. 

kid playing pool games in the summer
LeeAnn Cline via Unsplash

F.I.S.H.

Similar to P.I.G. in basketball, the first player in F.I.S.H. is the leader, and the other players must follow exactly what the leader does. Jump from the side, do a certain dive, perform a choreographed pool number—whatever the task, the players must follow it or be given a letter from F.I.S.H. The first player to spell F.I.S.H loses the game.

Belly Flop Competition

Similar to a cannonball competition but without the showmanship mid-flight, the belly flop competition is all about the biggest smack of flesh on water. Who needs a cool flip mid-air when everyone knows you’re going for surface-area-to-contact records?

Categories

With this game, the more swimmers you have, the merrier (but we know of confirmed rounds of Categories involving only two players, so work with what you’ve got). Begin by choosing someone to be "It." The selected player chooses a category other players are familiar with (think colors for the small set, or candy bars for the older kids). "It" stands outside of the pool with their back turned from the water and all other players line up directly underneath them with their hands on the wall, waiting for their selection to be guessed. If it is, the player tries to swim to the other side of the pool without being tagged out.

Cannonball 

Best performed from a springy, 1980s-era diving board, cannonball competitions are similar to dance-offs; each participant tries to “up” the next with their artistic interpretations mid-flight and ultimately, by the size of her splash.

Air Ninja

Adrenaline, meet categories. Starting on the side of the pool in a jump-ready position, count “1,2,3” and then your choice of any animate or inanimate object. Kiddos will leap into the air, strike their pose, and come up for air giggling. Some sure-fire objects they’ll love to imitate are tigers, turtles, and trees, but the more creative you get, the more they’ll beg for more.

Pool Tag Survivor

Chose one player to be "it." The chosen player then yells out "dolphin," "froggy," or "submarine." Dolphins swim on top of the water, froggies swim in the middle, and submarines swim at the bottom of the pool. Whoever is "it" must close their eyes and try to tag the other players. When a player reaches the other end of the pool, they yell out "Survived!" Players who get tagged decide which one is "it" next. 

Marco Polo

Forget Marco Polo who was the first European to reach China. In America, if it’s June, July, or August, Marco (Polo!) is the king of the pool. “Marco” catches other players based on their reply to his call, and there’s no adrenaline-like daring to be the fish out of the water! Just like tag, only in water and with your eyes closed, how many hours did you spend playing this easy but exciting pool game as a kid?

 

 

Planning a first birthday party for your little one? These Seattle bakeries get top marks for too-cute smash cakes that little ones love. Whether you go for a mini version of the larger cake you order for party guests or you go for cupcakes alongside a smash cake, these bakeries can deliver the perfect amount of sweetness and artsy design.

Sugar n Flakes Bakery
The bakers at Sugar n Flakes Bakery are firm believers that birthdays are special for all of us, regardless of age. If small is what you need, they’ve got you covered with a six-inch cake (smash or otherwise) that feeds six to eight people. Even this downsized version comes with flavors a-plenty, although vanilla cake with vanilla buttercream is the go-to choice for your baby’s first. And if gluten-free or vegan tops your cake-needs list, they can help with that too.

The Sweet Side
Kara Burfeind says that she has been baking longer than she can remember and can’t think of many other things that she enjoys more, except maybe decorating her prized pieces. After graduating from the Bonnie Gordon College of Confectionary Arts in Toronto, she opened The Sweet Side bakery offering French macarons, her famous carrot cake by the slice, and many other desserts. If a tiny cake is what you need, count on her to design a cake you won’t forget.

Seatown Sweets
If a classic smash cake (vanilla cake with vanilla buttercream) is what you’re after, look no further than Seatown Sweets. Head Baker, Kayla Heffner rocks this classic four-inch cake with the best of them. If you want to branch out a bit, you can play with chocolate and vanilla flavor pairings, and choose more or less decoration on six-inch party cakes that serve up to 12.

Cakes by Ilse
Ilse ter Heerdt Idema is a PME-certified master cake decorator who got her start in the Netherlands before offering her wares here in the Northwest. Since that time, she has honed her skills even further receiving PME diplomas for sugarpaste, royal icing, piping, and sugar flowers. She is always looking for the best recipes and ingredients to serve her customers, including many European brands, while also minimizing her plastic usage as much as possible during the baking and decorating process in her home.

Jenny Cookies
Though Jenny Keller has made a name for herself baking cookies, her skills are not limited to just cookie dough. She brings as much creativity to her cakes (and other confections) as she does to her tasty cookies. In fact, she’s baked for many celebrities and large brands wanting beautiful desserts for their own parties, but she is just as happy creating such delights for us everyday folk as well.

Trophy
You already know Trophy for their amazing cupcakes, but did you know they also bake bigger cakes too? We’re obsessed with their sprinkle-covered creations and know you will be too. You can even order their Decorate-Your-Own Magic Cake kit which comes with everything you need to make your baby’s cake extra special.

Flying Apron
Now for something completely different. Can a bakery that offers 100% certified gluten-free and plant-based sweets be any good? Of course! Flying Apron took flight in the early 2000s before the trends, and they haven’t changed their ways since, except to continually improve their products and designs. Today they operate two bakeries in Seattle. When it comes to small cakes, they’ve got both four-inch and six-inch options, so you can feed anywhere from four up to twelve people.

KJ’s Cakery Bakery
When it comes to small cakes, we think the 6″ x 5″ Celebration Tall Cakes well.. take the cake. Bakery owner Kathy Jo Miller has creative kid-friendly combos, like strawberry lemonade, banana pudding and birthday explosion, that add a festive flair to even the smallest birthday bash.

Baked
You may be familiar with Kristina Serfass and not even know it. That’s because she is a two-time winner of Food Network’s “Cake Wars” TV series. Kristina got her love for baking from her Sicilian grandmother and her artistic talents from her German mother. Although her bakery usually focuses on elaborate custom cakes, they also offer some fun small cake options that make pandemic-sized birthdays special.

Make sure to capture photos of your tot covered in cake—and share them with 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.

Looking to add some big fun to your backyard bash? Look no further than these giant lawn games! These larger-than-life versions of classic games are perfect for all ages and add a playful twist to any outdoor gathering. Whether you’re looking for a game to keep the kids entertained or a way to liven up your next BBQ, jumbo yard games are the way to go. From giant Jenga to oversized bowling, there are so many options to choose from. But where do you start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

We’re sharing our top picks for giant lawn games that you can purchase right now. In fact, most of them are from Amazon, so you can get them almost right now. It’s never too early to start planning your spring and summer get-togethers, and these are also perfect for spring break. Plus, we made sure to consider kiddos of all ages so no one gets left out. Get ready to supersize your next backyard game night!

Oversized Yardzee

giant wooden dice set lawn game
SWOOC

This oversized Yahtzee (Yardzee—get it?) game is so much fun for everyone! And this set isn't just limited to Yahtzee. Farkle, Bowling, Pig, and more (20+ games) are packed into this one, weather-resistant set. 

Oversized Yardzee ($39.99)—Buy Here!

Giant Yard Pong

giant yard pong lawn game
Juegoal

This jumbo yard pong game is perfect for all ages. This set includes 12 oversized red cups, four balls, and a carrying case so you can take easily bring the fun with you to the beach or your next family gathering. Available in red, black, or teal/glow in the dark options!

Giant Yard Pong ($39.99)—Buy Here!

28 Piece Large Wooden Dominoes

giant dominoes lawn game
Triumph Sports

Color-coded and varnish-finished, these giant dominoes are ideal for the the whole family!

28 Piece Large Wooden Dominoes ($44.63)—Buy Here!

2-in-1 Vintage Giant Checkers & Tic Tac Toe

giant checkers board
SWOOC

Did someone say 'washable'? The board—a durable and reversible canvas—can be machine-washed, so grass stains and drink spills are no problem at all. This set comes with everything you need for Checkers and Tic Tac Toe.

2-in-1 Vintage Giant Checkers & Tic Tac Toe ($39.99)—Buy Here!

Jumbo Ring Toss

Amazon

This giant ring toss game is simply a backyard must-have. A tried-and-true favorite activity through the spring, summer, and fall, ring toss has a way of bringing people (of all ages) together. This particular set has almost 12K glowing Amazon reviews, too, so they're clearly doing something right.

Jumbo Ring Toss ($24.99)—Buy Here!

GoSports Ladder Toss

set of two ladder toss games
GoSports

This ladder toss is a great game for all ages to play. Set up is easy and you'll be having a blast in no time.

GoSports Ladder Toss ($49.99)—Buy Here!

MegaChess

giant game of chess
MegaChess

Just as the name implies, this is indeed a mega game of chess. With a 25 in. tall king (should give you a good idea of the size we're talking about here), this is such a charming set for mega chess fans.

MegaChess ($450.00)—Buy Here!

Giant Playing Cards

hand holding giant playing cards for lawn games
Yuanhe

Who among us doesn't need a full (all 52 cards) deck of enormous playing cards?

Giant Playing Cards ($13.69)—Buy Here!

Kick Croquet Game Set

giant kick croquet game
Franklin Sports

Kids will have a ball with this fun, outdoor, giant kick croquet game! Kick Croquet combines the fun of running and kicking a ball with the extra added attraction of guiding it through a course of wickets. You can make the course as hard or easy as you want. We're talking soccer vibes in a huge croquet set.

Kick Croquet Game Set ($34.18)—Buy Here!

Giant Connect 4

giant connect 4 game and bag
Giantville

If this isn't the most fun game for families, we aren't sure what is. Set up this jumbo version of Connect Four in your backyard and the kids will be dueling it out all summer long (but, you know, like in a healthy, friendly competition way). Don't believe us? Read the reviews!

Giant Connect 4 ($208.21)—Buy Here!

Giant Jenga

jumbo jenga game
Jenga

Don't you just love this extra-huge version of Jenga? The kids might need your help setting it up every time they knock it over, but other than that this is certainly one of the best jumbo lawn games you can bring home.

Giant Jenga ($118.50)—Buy Here!

Giant Kick Darts

SWOOC

Sure, this huge inflatable game could go one of two ways depending on the kind of neighbors you have and the aim your family has, but it's still wildly fun.

Giant Kick Darts ($149.99)—Buy Here!

Giant Inflatable Dice 6-Pack

Amazon

This inflatable dice set comes with six dice so that you can teach the kids one of these fun games or even use them to make match concepts fun. We love that they are easy to transport so that you can bring them with you camping or on your next family vacation.

Giant Inflatable Dice 6-Pack ($17.29)—Buy Here!

Giant Inflatable Bowling Set

Etna

This is a super fun option for little ones since there's very little risk of them getting hurt. Have the kids kick the bowling ball or mix it up and have them kick it backward—there are tons of ways this can be a fun and active game.

Giant Inflatable Bowling Set ($24.99)—Buy Here!

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

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

All images courtesy of retailers.

Minute to win it games for kids make for instant fun

If you’re looking for a great way to spend the evening at home with the family or you’ve got a big party to plan, there’s a good chance you’re searching for fun games for kids. That’s where minute to win it games come in. (You can also try out some of the best jokes for kids, DIY magic potions, ultimate trivia questions, and amazing movie night ideas.) These completely creative games will make all the difference during your next rainy weekend afternoon, family game night, or birthday party.

What’s a minute to win it game?

Simply put, it’s a 60-second game using items typically found around the house. Participants attempt to see who can finish a challenge first or who can complete a task the most times in under a minute. You can even add a theme, like Halloween minute to win it games or holiday minute to win it games!

How to play minute to win it games

These quick, exciting games are good for parties, of course, but you can also do them with just one or two players! There are three basic ways you can play Minute to Win It Games.

  • Player vs. timer: In this style, a player races against the clock. They still have just one minute to complete the game and if they do win, you can move on to another game. If they don’t, you can choose to let them try until they do beat the clock or move on to another player.
  • Player vs. Player: In this version, which works great for small groups, have two people compete against each other (for a minute), and whoever completes the challenge first, wins! This way, you can rotate through your crew at a reasonable pace.
  • Group Minute to Win It Play: Here’s where you’ll split your group into two teams. Each team decides who goes first, and then those players compete against each other to win! This is fun for teammates too because they’ll be cheering on competitors in each round.
minute to win it dice game
Paging Fun Mums

1. Dice Balance
The kids over at Paging Fun Mums try to see how many dice they can get on the stick in one minute (the most dice win!). It's a little tricky and super fun to watch!

2. Sticky Situation
This popular game requires players to bounce a ping pong ball just right, to land it on a piece of bread slathered in peanut butter. See the full instructions here.

3. Cup to Cup
Have your players sit outside in a single file line (have the last player sit back to back with the second to last player). Put one bucket at the front of the line and one bucket at the end of the line. From there, players must fill a small plastic cup from the first bucket and pass it over their heads to the last bucket. The first team to reach the designated mark on the bucket wins!

4. Sock the Block
Build several LEGO block towers and place them around the room. Players must use balled-up socks to knock over all five towers.

5. Nose Dive
The secret weapon in this game? Petroleum jelly dabbed on the nose. Using their noses (no hands allowed), players must move five cotton balls from one bowl to another, before the minute is up.

minute to win it games are fun activities for kids
iStock

6. Defying Gravity
Up and away! Using one hand, kids keep their balloons in the air for one minute. If this is too easy, for the half-pints you can add two balloons (or more!). Remember, no resting a balloon on a body part.

7. Wrap It Up
A two-player game that involves wrapping one player up with streamers, ribbon, or toilet paper.

8. Ball Drop
Have your player stand on a chair. Set a plastic cup on the ground in front of them and give them three ping pong balls. The object is to get all three balls in the cup without missing or having any bounce out.

9. Cereal Scramble
Cut the front of a cereal box into equal pieces. Stack the pieces into a flat tower and set a timer for one minute. Each child has a minute to piece the cereal box together.

10. Movin' On Up
Stack up 25 plastic cups of one color and add one cup of a different color at the bottom. Half-pints move the top cup to the bottom and see how far they can move the single-colored cup to the top in one minute.

girl playing the stacking cup minute to win it game
iStock

11. Stack Attack
This one might not be as tasty as cookie face, but it's still pretty popular. Give the kids one single stack of 36 plastic cups. Each child gets one minute to stack all of the cups into a pyramid and then unstack them, making a single column again.

12. Johnny Applestack
How about them apples? Another fun stacking game for kids using fruit from the kitchen—apples. Little ones have one minute to stack five apples (or three for younger kids) on top of each other and stay for three seconds.

13. Rubber Band Shooting Gallery
Get some rubber bands and aluminum cans and have players stand 10 feet away. Start the clock and see how many they can knock over in a minute!

14. Junk in the Trunk
Each player will need a tissue box, pantyhose and ten ping pong balls. Put the ping pong balls in each tissue box. Then, tie the boxes around each player. Kids have one minute to shake out (no hands) as many balls as they can.

15. Doughnut Chew
A piece of cake! Of all the minute to win it games, kids will eat this one up. First, tie a string around a doughnut, then hang it between two chairs. Littles need to eat the doughnut within a minute without it falling to the floor.

 

girl with balloon
iStock

16. This Blows
If you’re looking for a minute to win it game that your tween or teen will still get a kick out of, this is it. Each player has one minute to blow up a balloon and then use the air that’s inside of it to knock over as many plastic cups as they can. If they still have time on the clock, they can repeat the steps to blow down any leftover cups.

17. Chandelier
Light up the fun! You'll need 15 empty soda cans and four paper plates. Kids have one minute to stack cans with paper plates in between to see how high they can go.

18. Sponge Run
Place a kiddie pool or a bucket full of water on one side of the yard, and place an empty bucket on the other side. Players must soak up as much water in their sponge as possible and carry the sponge on top of their heads to the empty bucket. Once they arrive, players must squeeze as much water as possible into the empty bucket and head back to their teammates. The first team to fill their bucket to the line wins.

19. Noodling Around
Start this minute to win it game with one strand of uncooked spaghetti. The player puts the end of the dry noodle in their mouth; they have 60 seconds to pick up six uncooked pieces of penne pasta—with the spaghetti. Oh, and without using their hands!

20. Scoop It Up
Move six ping pong balls from one bowl to another, using only a spoon. Again, like some of the other minute to win it games, the kids can’t use their hands. Instead, each child will use a spoon—in their mouth.

Chica Circle

21. Card Ninja
Tweens and teens will get a giggle out of this minute to win it game. Slice a watermelon in half, securing it on a table or other flat surface. Give the kids cards to throw (kind of like throwing stars). Whoever gets the most cards into the melon in one-minute wins. Chica Circle has more details

22. Puddle Jumper
Set up a series of plastic cups. Fill them to the top with water and set a ping pong ball on the first in the row. The kids need to blow the ball from the first cup to the second. Keep going with more balls, racing to see who moves the most in one minute.

23. Penny Hose
Players have to retrieve two pennies from the bottom of a pair of pantyhose. It's hard than it looks!

24. Nut Stacker
It’s almost like the penny game, just slightly more difficult. Instead of stacking coins with one hand, each child has one minute to stack hex nuts onto a wooden stick or dowel.

25. Leaning Tower of LEGO
Fill two bins/buckets with LEGO (the number depends on the age of the players). Players must stack all the bricks in the container. If the tower breaks, continue to stack. The first person to stack all their bricks wins!

Sunflower Mom

26. Peep Face Game
Got extra peeps? We love this twist on the cookie minute to win it that's a fun game for kids at Easter. Sunflower Mom gives her little chicks one minute to stick as many peeps as they can to their face! Little bunnies think this game is funny.

27. Hot Chocolate Marshmallow Toss
Have players stand back from the table with mugs on it. Give players a designated number of marshmallows and see how many the team can throw into the mug in one minute.

28. Penny Tower
How many pennies can your child stack in one minute? If they just guessed a million, they’re not exactly right. The trick to this game is that the child can only use one hand. And believe us, that makes it oh-so-challenging.

29. Cookie Face
This is by far one of the favorites of kids just about everywhere. Not only do they get to play a super-silly game, but it’s all done with cookies. Cookies! Place a regular ol’ sandwich cookie on the child’s forehead. They’ll need to use their facial muscles to move it down their face and into their mouth—without using their hands.

30. Keep it Up
As light as a feather! Little players keep two feathers in the air for one minute (or as long as they can). The catch is they can just use their breath. To make it easier for younger kids, they can use a straw.

goldfish games are minute to win it games
Ginger Snap Crafts

31. Go Fish!
Whether it's crackers or mini marshmallows, this fun game for kids is easy! You'll need straws and two plates. Little gamers have one minute (to win it!) to see how many fish they can transfer from one plate to another with the suction from the straw and no hands. See more Goldfish Minute to Win It Games over at Gingersnap Crafts.

32. Ping Pong Toss
Players have one minute to try and toss ping pong balls in a container down the table. Three in a row wins, or, at the end of the minute, whoever has the most balls in their container.

33. Spin Doctor
As far as a minute to win it games go, tweens find this a ton of fun. A player spins a coin on the table. A second player stops the coin with one finger on its edge (upright!). Either player can spin the coin, and it's a win when you stop the coin for three seconds within a minute.

34. State of Fun
This minute to win it game uses brainpower! Get a sheet of paper and pencils for players, then have them write down as many state capitals as they can before the timer goes off. The player with the most correct state capitals wins the round.

35. Gummy Worm Search
This minute to win it game is messy, so save it for warm weather or a summer birthday party! Fill aluminum pie pans with gummy worms and cover them with whipped cream. Players have to find the gummy worms using their mouths, no hands! The player who finds the most gummy worms at the end of the round wins. 

Make sure to capture all the giggles—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.

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

 

Every school year, parents reach out to their children’s teachers to inquire about any number of things. Sometimes it’s over a concern over their child’s academic performance or a conflict between students. Other times, these questions for teachers can be a bit more invasive, like when a school parent demands to know why certain things are being taught, like in the recent instance of a small faction of parents getting upset over Michaelangelo’s statue of David being shown in the classroom. But for every one of these situations, there are a slew of other questions that teachers would love to hear from the parents of their students. We asked several current and former teachers what questions they would love to hear from parents, and here’s what they said.

“What are my students’ strengths in your classroom?”

Jessica Matoian, an 8th-grade social science teacher at Sequoia Middle School in the Fresno Unified School District, says she would love to hear this question from parents, along with questions about how they can help develop those strengths outside of the classroom. “I believe in a growth mindset in my classroom. If I can work with parents and guardians on developing their students’ strengths, instead of highlighting their weaknesses, I find students are willing to take ownership of their strengths and build on them on their own,” says Matoian.

“Is my child happy? What lights them up?”

Brooklyn-based Christina Soriano, who taught elementary school art, social and emotional wellness, and Kindergarten summer school from 2006 through 2022, says she never heard any parent ask this, but wishes she had. “These questions are important because they are child-centered and strengths-based. It’s sometimes second nature, or sometimes cultural, that we go straight to how to make a child ‘better’ in a subject. Of course, that is a main point of schooling and learning, but it’s equally important to know what makes a child excited and joyful during the school day,” she says.

“How can I help my child succeed in your classroom?”

Victoria Taylor, a teacher with 20 years of experience and founder of BestCaseParenting, says she appreciates when parents take an interest in their children’s work. “Simply asking about ongoing projects and assignments can be extremely helpful to students and teachers alike. I understand it’s a lot for busy parents to stay on top of everything, but small gestures such as sending in student supplies or helping their child stay organized can make a huge difference,” says Taylor.

The same goes for Christina Collura, a full-time kindergarten teacher, autism advocate, and mother of two. “I am a firm believer every child has strengths (and weaknesses), and building and teaching children based on those strengths are vital to forming and building on a successful learning path,” says Collura.

“What supplies or materials do you need restocked/refilled for the classroom?

Amanda Dexter, who has been teaching middle and high school for eight years in Missouri’s St. Joseph School District says she would like parents to inquire about supplies long after the school year has begun. “At the beginning of the year, classroom supplies are usually fully stocked, but come a few months later and we’ve run out of glue sticks, construction paper, whiteboard markers, Kleenex, disinfecting wipes, pencils, etc. You’d be amazed at how quickly a class can burn through what seems like ample supplies in the beginning,” says Dexter. “Usually it is up to the teacher to restock supplies out of their own pockets.”

“Are there any educational activities or resources you recommend?”

“Parents who ask this question are actively seeking ways to enrich their child’s learning experiences. As a teacher, I can suggest educational apps, websites, books, or hands-on activities that align with the curriculum and support their child’s interests and learning style,” says Donna Paul, a Montessori teacher turned blogger at That’s So Montessori.

“How can I help my child develop independence and life skills?”

This might not be a typical question asked by parents, but Paul, who has over 10 years of in-class Montessori elementary teaching experience, says those who do inquire about this recognize the importance of preparing their children for future success. “I can provide suggestions on age-appropriate tasks, organization strategies, and opportunities for problem-solving that empower children to become self-reliant and confident individuals,” she says.

Related: Teacher Shares ‘Secret Code’ Used When Emailing Parents about Their Kids

mom asking a teacher questions
iStock

“How can I support my child’s learning at home?”

While supporting a child’s education in the classroom is essential, Paul feels that parents should also look into how they can extend this into their homes. “By asking this question, parents show their commitment to their child’s education and seek guidance on how to extend learning beyond the classroom. As a teacher, I can provide valuable insights, resources, and strategies for creating a supportive learning environment at home,” she adds.

“What can I do to support my child’s social and emotional well-being?”

Nowadays, more parents and teachers are learning about the importance of social-emotional learning on top of academics. “Parents who ask this question demonstrate their understanding of the vital role social and emotional development plays in a child’s overall success. By seeking advice, parents can gain insights into how to foster healthy relationships, resilience, and emotional intelligence in their child’s everyday life,” says Paul.

“Does my child behave at school (and) are they respectful?”

Julie Navitka, a former middle school teacher (from 2008 through 2022) at Robert Andrews School in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, suggests parents ask this question to gain better insight into their child’s behavior. Why? While teachers will generally inform parents when their students are crossing the line with their behavior, it’s a good idea to check in with teachers to see if there are inklings of problematic behavior that can be addressed early on.

“Does my child get their work finished (and on time?)”

Navitka, who briefly taught high school and has since started blogging at Successfully Sustainable, also recommended this question. Questions for teachers like this can not only help prevent any academic slides but also potentially detect a larger issue if the student is having a lot of difficulty staying focused and completing tasks, such as a learning disability or a cognitive disorder like ADHD.

“Does my child distract others from their learning?”

While parents should always ask questions related to helping their own students, it doesn’t hurt to inquire about how they are ensuring the success of the entire classroom. “Teaching can be extremely stressful, and even though it’s not the only (or biggest) factor, dealing with unsupportive parents plays a role in this stress,” says Navitka. Being proactive in addressing issues like these can make difficult conversations about behavior issues smoother.

“How can I help contribute to the classroom?”

While donating supplies is always helpful, Birney Elementary School teacher Robert Garcia wishes parents would ask how they can help contribute to the classroom in other ways. “It could be volunteering, donating special incentives, or just making a guest appearance,” says the 6th-grade teacher who has taught in Fresno Unified School District for 29 years.

“What skills is my child struggling with that may not be covered in class?”

Eddie Maza, an 11th and 12th-grade English teacher at The Idea School, a private school in New Jersey, says it can often be difficult for teachers to address individual students’ needs at the beginning of the school year. “As a high school English teacher, I encountered students who required assistance with fundamental grammar issues. While I would have liked to provide them with additional support, the nature of teaching a large class made it challenging to offer supplementary content. By asking the teacher about specific areas that need improvement and how to develop those skills, you can create a plan to help your child catch up with the class,” says Maza.

“How can I support my child’s work without completing it for them?

According to Maza, “Parents naturally want to assist their children with school work, but it’s important to ensure that working through challenging assignments, collaborating with peers, and communicating with teachers remains part of the learning experience. Involvement from parents is valuable, but asking this question helps ensure that your efforts to support your child’s education do not deprive them of the essential learning experience.” Alternatively, he says parents can ask, “What are the objectives of this assignment?”

Related: 16 Things Parents Don’t Need to Worry About (According to Teachers)