18 Christmas Books for Children of Color

So, today I am sharing parenting tips on a list of Christmas books for children of color. I’m a big advocate of reading.  It is an activity that was instilled in me as a child and I passed my love for reading on to my daughter. I’m now making it third generation, I’m passing my passion for reading to my granddaughter and grandson.

 

Christmas books for children of color

 

Reading is so important to all of our children’s education. It has been proven that children learn when they can relate.  So, seeing images that look like them or someone they know is one of the ways that help children learn.

 

Christmas books for children of color:

 

Christmas Books for children of color

 

Story Bird Dance and The Snowbird Ballet – First, this book is a perfect gift or Christmas book for the little ballerina.  The recital for Story Bird Dance Academy is approaching.  However, Jada is afraid to dance in front of the big kids.  And, Nia doesn’t like her costume.  How will they do in the recital.  Appropriate for ages 6 – 8.

 

Christmas books for kids

 

 

The Secret of Santa’s Songbird –  A northern Cardinal named Chipper  is slow at growing his feathers. He knows he different, but hopes to be like other birds.  Chipper delivers a Christmas gift that nobody sees coming.  Not even Santa.  Appropriate for ages 6 – 8.

 

Christmas books for kids

 

 

Adventures in Tutus – The Missing Christmas Gifts –  Follow Cloclo and Riri on an adventure to the North Pole to meet Santa.  They are wearing their tutus, and hope to meet Santa’s elves and reindeer.  Appropriate for ages 5 – 8.

 

books for kids of color

Sophie Washington Secret Santa

A secret “Santa” has been mailing presents to sixth grader Sophie Washington.  She has no clue who it could be since a gift exchange is not happening in school.  Sophie and her friends think either Nathan Jones or Toby Johnson, two boys in Sophie’s class, may be the secret Santa.  Sophie begins to unravel clues to discover her secret Santa.  Appropriate for ages 8 – 12.

 

cultural books for kids

 

 

Pinata in a Pine Tree –   Partridges are being replaced with Piñatas in this story of the 12 Days of Christmas.  Appropriate for ages 4 – 7.

 

 

cultural books for kids

 

 

A World of Cookies for Santa – A World of Cookies for Santa takes children around the globe to discover cookie treats left for Santa around the globe on Christmas Eve. The book also has cookie recipes the children can make.  Appropriate for children 5 – 8.

 

cultural books for kids

 

 

 

The Legend of the Poinsettia –  This books explains how the flower of Christmas, the poinsettia, came to be.  The poinsettia was a selfless gift from a little girl to Christ.  Appropriate for ages 4 – 8 years.

 

cultural Christmas books for kids

Together for Kwanzaa –  Kayla loves Kwanzaa. It is her favorite time of year.  Her brother Khari is supposed to come home for the festivities, but a heavy snowstorm is coming.   Will Khari miss Kwanzaa.  Great book to introduce children to Kwanzaa.  Appropriate for ages 3 – 7 .

 

Christmas books for kids of color

 

 

The All I’ll Ever Want Christmas Doll –  Nella’s family is poor, but she’s hoping Santa will bring her and her sisters a beautiful Baby Betty doll.  Will Santa grant her wish?  Appropriate for ages 4 – 8 years.

 

cultural books for children

I Got the Christmas Spirit – It’s the holiday season!  A mother and daughter are enjoying the lights and sounds of the season.  She’s also enjoying chestnuts roasting, carolers, and sleigh bells ringing.  She finally goes to see Santa, and gives him her Christmas wish.  What is her wish?  Appropriate for ages 3 – 6 years.

 

books for children of color

 

The Night Before Christmas  – Teenager, Noland Nixon retells The Night Before Christmas illustrations of an African-American family.  Appropriate for ages 6 – 8.

 

Christmas books for kids

The Day Santa Got Sick – What happens to the toys if Santa gets sick and can’t drive the sleigh?  That is exactly what happens one Christmas Eve.  But, a little girl elf and Mrs. Claus save the day.  Find out how.   Appropriate for ages 5 – 8.

 

Christmas books for children

 

 

Messy Bessey’s Holiday’s – Bessey and her mother love to bake cookies for Christmas, Kwanzaa, and Hanukkah.  After they bake the delicious treats, they clean up the kitchen, and than deliver the cookies to their neighbors.

 

Christmas books for children

 

 

How to Build an Elf Trap – If you want to catch an elf, you will need more than candy canes and ribbons!   Get help building your Elf Trap with precise calculations and the right engineering.  Appropriate for ages 4 – 7 years.

 

Christmas books for children

 

 

My Christmas Story Tree – An adorable board book takes toddlers through the decorating of a family  Christmas tree.  Beautifully illustrated with glitter and glitz.  Appropriate for ages Preschool – 2.

 

cultural books for kids

 

 

12 Days of Big Hair – Another great books that teaches African American girls to love their natural hair.  Everyone knows the 12 Days of Christmas.  However, The 12 Days of Christmas with replaced with a natural hair twist.  So, Effie’s Big Hair teaches her that her big hair is beautiful.  Appropriate for ages 5 – 8.

 

cultural books for kids

 

 

The Nutcracker in Harlem – Next, a little girls finds her voice as a musician in this rendition of the Nutcracker.  The setting is Harlem. Appropriate for ages 4 – 8 years.

 

cultural books for kids

 

 

A Piece of Black Cake for Santa   – So, Femi and her friends want to leave Santa Caribbean treats this year.  One of the treats is Black Cake. They also share some of their favorite winter activities at the Christmas fair.  Appropriate for ages 5 – 8.

Finally, these Christmas books for children of color will make great Christmas gifts.  So, add a few to your child’s reading list.  Also, you may like 24 Winter Books for Kids.

 

 

 

11 Ways to Recycle Christmas Cards

Today I’m sharing parenting tips on ways to recycle Christmas cards.  Year after year we receive beautiful Christmas cards, but we have no idea what to do with them after the holidays.  They’re too beautiful to throw away, so we just place them in a box and store them from year to year.  Christmas is around the corner.  Again, Christmas cards will be arriving in the mail or handed out at the office. Many have beautiful scenery or a picture of Santa.

 

 

Christmas Decor

 

Here’s a list of way to reuse them:

Name Tags –  First, use designs on the card for gift name tags.  Cut out a square from the design on the Christmas card.  Next, Embellish it with To and From lines.

Embellish Gifts Bags – Second, cut out design and embellish gifts wrapped in Kraft or plain colored wrapping paper.

Frame Them – Furthermore, you can frame the cards and make a vignette or wall display.  Pick up a few frames at your local Dollar Store.

 

recycled Christmas cards

 

 

 

Scrapbook Pages – Use cutouts from the cards to create designs to Christmas scrapbook pages.

Lid Covers for Jars –  Additionally, you can use a large circle punch to create a design for the top of jars.  You can fill the jars with cookies, candy, hot chocolate and more.  Be creative.

Drink Coasters  – Buy ceramic tiles and cover them with designs from

 

 

recycled Christmas cards

 

 

 

Design a Wreath – Recycle Christmas cards by making craft items.  Christmas Cards make great wreaths.

Embellish a Fireplace Mantel – So, your mantel is bare.  Display cards along your fire place mantel or shelves.  Add lights or greenery to the mantel to create a festive mood.

Decorate a Door Frame –  Furthermore, when I was growing up, sending Christmas cards to family and friends was a tradition.  One of my favorite childhood memories was seeing the Christmas cards received during the holiday season around the door frames in the house.

Create Jigsaw Puzzles – Also, recycle Christmas cards by creating jigsaw puzzles. I purchased this jigsaw puzzle maker for my scrapbook pages and I love it.

Christmas Ornaments –  Use a circle punch to create designs from the cards.  Next, use a hole punch to make a hole at the top of the circle.   Thread a piece of ribbon through the hole and tie on a tree or tree branches.

Last, we hope you like a few of our recycle ideas and will put them into affect.  Finally, you may also like 7 Christmas Morning Tips You Need.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cello 101: Ideal Cello Bows for Cellists

 

cello bows

 

When it comes to cellos, the bow plays an important role in the overall function of the instrument. Without using an appropriate one, it would be hard for cellists to achieve the sound they want.

So, in order to reach the full potential of your bowed stringed instrument do your research:

Choosing A Cello Bow

Apparently, choosing a cello bow involves testing various bows.  Search for the best bow so you can produce more quality music using your cello.  Take yourtime, and be diligent.

First, test the bow with your cello.  It will help determine if it produces the type of sounds you want.  Furthermore, it’s important to consider the following types of cello bows:

  • Wooden –  The most popular types of wood that are used in making bows are the Brazilwood and Pernambuco.  They differ in quality because the wood is taken from different parts of the tree.

The Brazilwood comes from the thinner part of the tree, therefore offering low quality material.  Pernambuco is heavier and more solid than Brazilwood.

  • Fiberglass –  Fiberglass is included as a cello bow.  However, it is not a great option. It is the cheapest option you will find on the market. Some buy this cello bow due to tight budget, however, the quality is not good.
  • Carbon Fiber –  The durability of carbon fiber make it an excellent material for cello bows. It can withstand  harsh weather conditions.  Furthermore, it is as strong as the wooden bows.

Compared to Pernambuco, you will get almost the same quality.  It is also an excellent choice for changing climates, and doesn’t affect the sound quality at all.

Remember, there’s nothing wrong about being picky when purchasing a cello bow. After all, quality is an essential factor in your life as a cellist. So go ahead. Be as meticulous as you can be when choosing the perfect bow.

Aside from budget, consider the amount of time you will need to test different bows. This will help you find the right one with the best quality at a reasonable price.

 

8 Tips to Trim Costs From Your Holiday Dinners

Hosting holiday dinners can be stressful and expensive. Not only can planning the dinner be stressful, it can get expensive depending on the number of guest you will be feeding and entertaining. So, today I’m sharing parenting tips on how to cut down on expenses for your holiday dinners.

 

 

holiday tips

 

 

Here’s a few tips trimming the cost from your holiday dinners:

 

Purchase in Bulk – I have found that it is more cost effective to purchase items in bulk for holiday dinners. For example, potatoes, shredded cheese, pecans, and vegetables. I purchase the industrial size cans of green beans and corn.  Also, large bags of pecans for sweet potato casseroles and desserts.   As well as large bags of shredded cheese.  I usually fix 10 lbs. of mashed potatoes depending on the number of guests.  Having left-overs for the next day or allowing guests to take a plate home is a ritual in my family.  So, it is imperative that I have plenty.

Buy Generic Products –  I don’t purchase generic items for all of my food purchases because I don’t want to lose the quality of my dishes.  However, I do purchase generic or store brand cheese, butter, all purpose flour etc.  I have found that I can enhance the dishes with spices and seasoning.  The turkey I splurge on.  It is the center of the dinner.

 

tips for holidays dinners

 

Shop at the Dollar Store –  The Dollar Stores has great items to use for decorating, and crafts for the kids.  Festive platters, napkins, plastic utensils  and items for center pieces can be had.  Using paper plates and plastic utensils cuts down on my clean-up time.  Especially, if I’m having a large number of guests.  If it’s 6 – 8 people, I use my holiday dishes and serving pieces in a more formal setting.

Have a Potluck –  Have each guest bring a dish to contribute to the dinner.  This cuts down on your food costs and cooking time when preparing holiday dinners.  Plus, your guests feel that they played in role in the success of the dinner and festivities.

Plan Your Menu – When you’re entertaining, planning your menu is essential.  So is knowing the number of guests who will be attending.  This includes children.  Figure out your side dishes.  They will take the most time to prepare.  I decide what I can put in crockpots or fix the night before and simply heat up before guests arrive.

Make Your Own Desserts –  Rather than purchase expensive desserts in stores or having them made by a bakery, make your own.  Cake mixes can be whipped up in no time, and so can pie fillings.  So, add homemade desserts to your holiday dinners.  Homemade is always better in my home.

 

Thanksgiving Pies Ideas

 

Look for Budget Friendly Crafts –  Craft items, coloring books and games can be purchased from the Dollar Tree to occupy the kids.  If you have a printer, look for games or coloring pages on-line.

Prepare Dishes You Can Stretch –  I always plan dishes that will ensure left-overs or are hearty and filling.  For example, green beans and corn are filling.  So, they go a long way and there are usually left-overs.  Same with mashed potatoes and gravy.  Corn pudding is another dish that is hearty.  As a result, I can serve smaller portions and have some left over for the next day.

We hope that you have found our tips beneficial.  Make your holiday dinners memorial.  Implement a few, and watch your savings add up.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Why They Should Bring Back Drive-in Theaters

 

movie ideas

 

If you enjoy going to the movies, try a drive-in theater.  I have fond memories of going to the drive-in when I was teen. Drive-in theaters were popular in the 60’s and 70’s, but lost their popularity when colored TVs emerged. They are slowly making a come back across the country, and I’m jumping up and down.

I have one near by, so I decided to take my grandchildren to see The Grinch.  I’m always striving to do something different so they will have a great memory, and a drive-in is something they’ve never experienced.

 

 

Holiday Movies

 

I thought seeing The Grinch was a great way to begin the holiday season.  It was a perfect chilly Sunday evening with no school the next day.  So, we gathered our warm coats, hats, gloves and headed out to the Family Drive-in Theater.  Being out after dark and watching a movie in the car excited the kids.  It made me joyful too.  Making my grandchildren happy and creating memories is what it’s about as a grandparent.

The Family Drive-in Theater is the only one in the Washington, D.C./Northern Virginia metropolitan area.  It’s a family owned business that has been open since 1956.   The concession stand is how they make most of their money.  The theater itself is quite nostalgic.

When we reached the theater, a line had already formed.  We waited patiently.  Fortunately, the price for entry was reasonable.  It was $8.00 for adults and $4.00 for children 4 -11.  My grandchildren fell into the $4.00 category.  Normally, there is a double feature playing.  Except for Sundays, only 1 movie is shown.   So, it was $20 for 4 of us.  We entered the theater area and found a great spot directly in front of the movie screen.  Arriving early has its advantages.  If you arrive early enough, the kids can play on the playground until the movies start.

 

holiday movies

                                                                     Movie screen at Family Drive-in Theater

 

We needed to use the rest room and than head to the snack bar area before the movie started.  The menu was surprising.  There was the usual popcorn and soda fountain drinks.  But, they offered chicken salad, angus burgers, tacos, and shrimp.  It was quite the menu.  Actually, better than any regular movie theater that I’ve been to.  My grandson ordered corn dogs and hot chocolate.  The corn dog was so good, he had to have another.  I ordered the shrimp basket, which included fries.  My granddaughter ordered popcorn.  It was quite the feast.

 

drive-in theater speakers

Speakers at Family Drive-in Theater

 

We headed back to the car to get settled before the movie started.  We had the option of tuning in on the car radio for the sound or using their speakers.  Or, you could also use a portable radio. We used their speakers. They hook on to your car window or sit on your dashboard.  The kids thought the speakers were cool.  They also thought it was cool to be able to sit under the stars, and watch the movie.  When they visit, they want to go to the outside movie theater again.  They also enjoyed The Grinch.  It was short, about 1 hour and 15 minutes, but entertaining.

If you have a drive-in theater in your area, load up the kids and head out.  It will be a memory they always treasure.  I can’t wait to take them back next summer.

 

 

Making a Bathroom Safe for Children

bathroom safety tips

Bathrooms can be dangerous places for children.  Especially, young children who are notorious for slipping in  tubs and shower surfaces.  Fortunately, there are a number of straightforward precautions for making a bathroom safe for children.   Katie Mills, a bathroom design expert, from www.poshh.co.uk explains a few things you can set in place to protect your little ones.

Think about the lock

You can tell your children to leave the lock open.  But, in reality curiosity may get the better of a child.  When children are young, it’s best to have a lock which can be opened from the outside.  If, for some reason, that’s not possible, then it would be safe to remove the lock.  Just put up a reversible sign for “vacant” and “in use”.

Floors with good grip

Children are going to run and probably jump as well.  The younger they are, the less control they are going to have over their bodies.  As a result, they are more than likely need to make a last-minute rush for the toilet.  Floor coverings with a good grip will help in making a bathroom safe and avoiding falls.

Potty training seat with step to toilet

You want to make it as easy, safe and comfortable for your child to use the toilet during potty training.  A seat with a step stool to access the toilet will go a long way in helping a child overcome fear of the “big toilet”.  Furthermore, it helps in making a bathroom safe for children.  It will also make life more comfortable for you.  You won’t have to hold your child on the toilet, you can just be with them.

Step stool for sink

You want to get small children up to a height where they can use standard sinks comfortably.  Most importantly, without the risk of them toppling over and banging their heads against the sinks.  For similar reasons, you may want to upgrade your faucet so it operates with a press button or lever.  Furthermore, a motion sensor is ideal. Likewise, make sure that soap, toothbrushes and toothpaste are all easy for your child to reach.

Easy access storage for bath/shower toys

Toys can be a tripping hazard for both children and adults.  Easy access storage allows the toys to corralled in one place, and takes away the excuses for not putting them away after use.

Secure storage for “adult-only products”

People often think of putting first-aid products and medicines in a safe place.  However, there common bathroom items which need to be kept out of the hands (and mouths) of young children.  These includes cleaning products, electrical products, sharp objects and toiletries to name a few.  Locks and/or childproof catches are the ideal solution.  However, a magnetic closure would be better than nothing.

Child-accessible (or automatic) lighting

You can now buy motion-detecting bathroom lights, which switch on when the bathroom door is opened.  Also, they switch off either when it is closed or after a specific length of time.  Alternatively, there are now plenty of battery-operated LED lights. In addition to making the bathroom safer for a child, these can also make night-time bathroom visits much less intimidating.

Non-slip mats in the bath and/or shower

Next, baths are a convenient way to get younger children clean.  However, it’s important to be very aware of the drowning hazard they pose.  Adults can drown in very little water.  Furthermore, children have smaller lungs in smaller bodies and are therefore more at risk.  Never leaving young children unattended in baths is the first step to making a bathroom safe for children.  And, even when they are attended, you can save yourself heartache and trips to the hospital by using non-slip mats.  It imperative that toddlers and younger children have a secure grip when getting in and out of the bathtub.

Hand rails are a bit of a mixed call.  They do provide a grip and hence security.  But, can be dangerous if children fall and mouth or head.  It could lead to lost teeth.

Depending on the age, showers are actually the better option.  They eliminate the risk of drowning.  Even so, it’s highly recommended that a non-slip mat be used.  This is useful for adults.

6 Ways to Save on College Tuition

Sending a kid off to college is a bittersweet experience for most parents. While you’re excited that your child is getting a higher education and growing up, college tuition comes with a hefty price tag. In addition to tuition, there are other expenses such as decorating a dorm room, paying for food, etc.  However, what most people don’t realize is that there are plenty of ways to save on college tuition.  Some of these you may know about, while others you may not.  We have a few parenting tips on ways to save on college tuition.

 

 

save on college tuition

 

 

 

  1. Apply for scholarships

First, there are plenty of scholarships out there.  So, be sure you and your child do your homework and look for what’s available. Talk with your child’s school, local government, your employer, and any other places that could potentially offer scholarships. In addition, check out websites like scholarships.com that provide you with a list of all available scholarships on the market today. Even if your child only gets one of the scholarships he or she applies for, it’s better than having to pay full price to go to school.

  1. Apply for financial aid 

Along with scholarships, financial aid is available to certain students who qualify. Applying is easy and you’ll find out just how much you qualify for during the application process. Furthermore, it may be a good idea for parents and the student to both apply and see what works best in your favor. Just keep in mind that some financial aid programs may be required to be paid back at a later date.  Additionally, be sure you’re always reading the fine print before you accept any money from the government, lenders, etc. 

  1. Find money around the house

Unfortunately, not everyone has a savings account set up to send their kid to college.  However, there are still ways you can cut down on the cost. For example, can you sell a damaged car in order to earn some extra cash?  Can you rent out a room in your home to earn extra money?  Can you put a hobby to work and earn extra dough?  Think about all the different ways you can turn old items or new hobbies into extra income that can go toward the school tuition.

  1. Think outside the school

Schools are good at packaging everything together and making it seem like a great deal.  But, what they don’t tell you is that most of these things can be itemized and broken down to reduce costs. For instance, instead of including room and board in your tuition expenses, determine if there are other options.  Can your child either commute to school while living at home or by renting an apartment nearby the campus.  Unpacking some of these university perks could end up saving you a lot of money in the long run.

  1. Enroll in work study

Most schools offer a work study program.  It allows student to work and the “money” earned during their shifts is applied to their tuition.  At most schools, this is a very minimal working requirement (like 5 hours a week, if that).  But, the impact it can make on your tuition costs could be impressive. If your school offers a work study program, be sure to have your child enroll in it so you can save money.

  1. Take pre-requisite classes somewhere else

Most colleges require you to have a certain set of classes completed before you can graduate. However, most of these pre-requisite classes can be taken anywhere and credits can be transferred.  So, consider taking the pre-requisite classes at a local community college where the tuition is much cheaper.  Doing this can save you a great deal on tuition.  Most importantly, be sure the credits will transfer to your school of choice when the time is right.

College tuition is getting more expensive by the day, and it’s hard for parents and students to afford going. However, if you use these tips you’ll find that there are a variety of ways you can cut down on the expenses.

 

 

Tips to Help Kids Who Play Acoustic Guitars Be Successful

Today, I’m sharing parenting advice on kid friendly acoustic guitars. Whether you had a hand in motivating your child to pick up the acoustic guitar or not, the moment you child says he or she wants to play guitar, listen closely. If your child is seriousness, start looking for kid-friendly acoustic guitars.  Additionally, check out age-appropriate music lessons with teachers that specialize in teaching children.

 

 

 

acoustic guitars

 

 

Once your child starts their lessons, as a parent you need to offer support as well and encourage your child to keep learning and practicing.  Also, make sure your child is getting what they need to become a good guitar player.

 

Tips to help your child become a good acoustic guitar player:

 

Get a good acoustic guitar of the right size

Acoustic guitars that are smaller than full-sized models are great options for kids.  These guitars are easier for children to hold.  Furthermore, there are plenty of kid-sized guitars on the market.  For example, the Martin LX1 Little Martin, Taylor GS Mini and Epiphone Pro-1 to name a few. These acoustic guitars are all from trusted brands so you can be sure to have a reliable instrument for your child.

 

Hire a good teacher

When hiring a teacher, look for an instructor that can tailor lessons according to your child’s age, level of understanding and physical capacity. The teacher should also be someone your child likes.  If they don’t like their teacher, they could lose interest in playing the acoustic guitar.

So, once you find a teacher your child likes, make sure you touch base with them on a regular basis. You are now a team.  As a result, you must work together to help provide your child with the best music education.  Ask how you can help.

 

Set up a practice space and schedule

Designate a room in the house or corner of your child’s bedroom as their practice space.  Make sure it is free of clutter and other distractions. The space should be comfortable, have a straight-backed chair, a sheet music stand or table and ample lighting.

Sit down with your child and work on a practice schedule. Consider school and extracurricular activities, weekend  activities, chores, homework time etc.  When your child is part of the planning, they are more likely to stick to the practice schedule.

 

Set up a reward system

Rewards are great motivators and give children something to aim for. You can set up a reward system every time they ‘unlock’ an achievement.  Additionally, memorizing a set of three chords or knowing all the notes on the fretboard can be incentives for rewards.  Make the rewards  simple.  For example,  such as a cupcake for a chord, or something bigger, like a shirt of their favorite band when they are able to play a song without making an error.

The most powerful thing you can give children learning to play the acoustic guitar is encouragement. Show how proud you are of them when they attend their lessons, practice on schedule and do their best to become a better musician. If you keep giving them words of encouragement, they would be more motivated to keep going!

 

4 Ways to Keep Your Children Safe While on Vacation

Keeping our children safe is always a top priority for parents. This is especially true when we are on vacation. Vacations expose families to different kinds of risks and dangers depending upon where they travel.   Our mode of transportation could include danger and risk as well as what we do once we arrive at our destination.    Today, I’m sharing ways to keep your children safe while on vacation.  Below are some essential safety and travel tips for different kinds of vacation locations and activities.

 

child safety

 

 

Tropical Vacations

When it is cold where you live, taking your family to a tropical getaway is a popular vacation idea. However, there are certain precautions you need to make for babies and small children.  Here are a few ways to keep your children:  

·         Preventing their sensitive skin from dangerous sunburn. Especially,  between 10 am and 2 pm when the sun rays are the strongest. You should also apply sunscreen often when they are exposed to the sun.

·         Because children don’t sweat as much as adults do, they can become dehydrated faster. Be sure to provide them with enough fluids on a regular basis/  And, watch for signs of dehydration such as fussiness, redness of the skin, and excessive crying.

·         Tropical climates are known for insects that bite and children tend to be magnets to them. Using insect repellents will help to protect them. However, you don’t want to cause them harm from the harsh chemicals found in many repellents. Read the labels before using any repellent and be sure to avoid ears, eyes, open cuts, and mouths.

 

 

child safety

Boating Trips

Many families are boat lovers and taking their children out on the water can be a thrilling adventure.  However, keeping them safe is something that requires some basic understanding of boating safety. Some ways to keep your children safe include:

·         Create and share your float plan with a family member or local marina staff.  Be sure to include where you are going and for how long.

·         Establish basic boating rules.  They should be required to follow them just like they do at home. For example, they should be told to keep their hands and feet inside the boat at all times.

·         Every member of your family should have access to and wear a properly-fitting and age-appropriate life jacket.

·         Be aware at all times of what is going on around you when on the water. This includes knowing where your children are and what they are doing.

·         Have good situational awareness by always paying attention to other boats in the area, the weather conditions, and the tides and currents.

·         Check the boating vessel before leaving the dock to verify that everything is in working order, especially safety equipment.

·         Know the responsibilities, rules, and safety precaution responsible boating operators need to learn and follow.

 

 

child safety

Camping Trips

Taking your family camping can be a great escape from life’s ordinarily hectic routine. There’s nothing like sleeping in tents under the stars and cooking your food over a campfire.  It helps families bond and get a release from the stresses of everyday life. Taking necessary precautions to keep everyone safe is imperative. Ways to keep your children safe include: 

·         Never leave children alone, especially small ones, near an open fire.

·         Minimize tick and mosquito bites by applying bug spray to your children’s clothing.  Always read the labels first.

·         Give each family member a whistle to use in case someone wanders off. This will help your children get back to you should they stray too far from your camping grounds and get lost.

When Travelling Internationally

Taking your children on vacation to another country can be an enjoyable and educational experience. But, it doesn’t come without risks. To make sure your memories are good ones, here’s a few more ways to keep your children safe:

·         Vaccinate your children against diseases for the country you plan to visit.

·         Before booking your trip, check the security and safety of your preferred destination. If there is unrest, change your plans.

·         Purchase world travel health insurance in case someone gets sick or injured while away.

Most importantly, do not take your eyes off your children. They are notorious for wandering away should something catch their eye. Hold their hands when in crowded areas. Another idea is to write your cell phone number on your child’s arm should the unthinkable happen and you lose them in a crowd.

Family vacations are wonderful times for sharing memorable experiences. There are too many horror stories we have all heard about where unplanned events or accidents happen.  What was supposed to be a fun time can turn into a nightmare if there wasn’t a list of ways to keep your children safe.   

Following necessary safety procedures and using common sense can go a long way to making family vacation memories beautiful experiences.  Ways to keep your children safe should always be a priority.

20 Healthy Carrot Snacks for Kids

carrot snacks for kids

 

First, finding healthy snacks for kids can be daunting.  So, I put together a round-up of healthy carrot snacks for kids.  I have found that making food and meal time fun helps kids relate to food.  Additionally, I believe it makes them more receptive to wanting to try new food ideas.

Next, my granddaughter and grandson love carrots.  As with most kids, they get bored of the same old carrot and ranch dip concept.  However, if I place ranch dip in a clear cup with cute little carrots with the greenery on them sticking out they’re excited.  It makes the dipping and licking exciting.  Munch, munch, crunch, crunch, and away the carrot goes!

So, here’s a few healthy carrot snacks for kids to help you create a fun lunch or snack for your little ones:

 

carrot recipes for kids
Carrot and Sweet Potato Fries –   Whip up this yogurt dip for carrot fries.  Carrots snacks for kids don’t have to be bland or boring.

 

 

carrot snacks
Cinnamon Roasted Carrots – I found this cinnamon roasted carrot recipe on McCormick site.

 

carrot snacks for kids

 

Parmesan Carrot Shoestring Fries – Shoestring fries are a perfect match for chicken tenders.

 

 

carrot snacks for kids


Carrot Pancakes
– Make breakfast fun and healthy with these carrot pancakes.  For the little ones who turn up their nose at the though of a carrot, they don’t have to know the significance of this ingredient.

 

carrot snacks for kids

 

No Bake Carrot Balls – You should know this recipe calls for nuts.  You may be able to substitute this ingredient or omit it.

 

carrot snacks

 

Carrot Pizza – This is one of my favorite recipes.  It’s fun and healthy.

 

healthy snacks for kids
Carrot Utensils   – These eating utensils make the perfect dipping tools for a ranch dressing.

 

 

Carrot Juice – Carrot juice, a healthy alternative to milk or juice.

 

carrot snacks for kids

Roasted Carrot Hummus – My grandson love Hummus.  It’s they’re not receptive to eating carrot sticks, try celery.

 

carrot snacks for kids
Hard Boiled Egg Carrots – I love this snack idea.  Perfect for breakfast or lunch.

 

carrot snacks for kids
Rice Krispies Carrots  – Celebrate your Letter C activities with this Rice Krispy treat.

 

 

carrot snacks for kids
Carrot Veggie Puffs – This veggie puff recipe would make a great addition to dinner.  It includes zucchini as well as carrots.  Why not grow a few zucchini as well as the carrots.

 

 

carrot snacks for kids
Apple Carrot Greek Yogurt Muffins – These muffins would be perfect for breakfast, lunch or a snack while discussing your activities.

 

 


Honey Roasted Carrots – Not only are these carrots delicious, but they would make a great garden project.  Plant these colorful carrots in the spring with your child.  A simple container/flower pot will suffice.

 

carrot snacks for kids

Carrots and Dip – Ranch dip is always a hit.  Cute idea, and you can use the pot later to plant a flower or garden herb.

 

carrot snacks for kids

 

Apple Banana Carrot Muffins – Serve with a glass of Almond Milk or low fat regular milk.

 

carrot snacks for kids

Carrot Croquettes –  Great idea for dinner or lunch.

 

carrot snacks for kids

Baked Carrots Fries – Baked carrot fries with ketchup.  Kids love to dip.

 

carrot snacks for kids

 

Carrot Oat Cookies – So, who said cookies are healthy.

 

carrot snacks for kids

Cinnamon Carrot Fries – Last, cinnamon on carrots, I don’t think they need a dip.  Yum!

Most importantly, I hope that you found one or two carrot snacks for kids that will make your kids crunch, munch and smile.  These snacks will go perfectly with our fruit and vegetable educational activities.  We suggest that you incorporate the snacks into a lesson plan.  Also, we have the Letter C – C is for Carrot activities too.  Our fruit and vegetable educational activities teach children about healthy foods and home gardening.  Finally, they’re perfect for homeschool or extra home work activities.  Healthy habits start at home, and so do healthy meals.  You should also check out our A is for Apple Snacks for kids.