When the temperatures climb above 90, and the kids have gone through every book they have, it’s time to hit the movie theaters (or Netflix). Each summer, the motion picture industry takes advantage of the captive audience of children on break from school. In addition to seeing the new movies in the theater, I find it fun to introduce my kids to classics movies from my childhood. My husband has been willing our son and daughter to grow up faster, so they could watch the “original” Star Wars trilogy. Both finally watched them over the past few months…and my husband hasn’t been happier. Here are my recommendations for summer movies, both new and old:
13
Jul
2016
Books to Keep Your Kids Entertained this Summer
Oh, how I love the non-schedule of summer days! Kids (and kids at heart) delight in the time allowed to explore, head out on adventures, and create memories. However…with summer comes the hot temperatures, and if you are living in the Midwest, you know what I mean. June gives way to July, which can be downright hot and sticky. When it’s too hot to even go to the pool, it’s time to curl up with a good book. You can’t go wrong with recommendations from Scholastic Books (broken down by age group), and these lists of Newberry and Caldecott winners. In addition to these trusted sources, here are a few suggestions of my own:
12
Jul
2016
Avoid the ‘Summer Slide’ with These Fun Tips
As a teacher, I always give parents ways to avoid the “summer slide” with their kids. What exactly is the summer slide? It is the temporary setback some children experience in their learning over the summer. Now, summer is absolutely a time for kids to enjoy life, relax, and take a break from the daily routine of school! I’m a firm believer in this. However, it can only help your child’s education to encourage them to learn something new over the summer.
Here are some fun, educational things you can do with your kids this summer…and they may not even realize they’re learning something at the same time!
8
Jul
2016
7 Annoying Questions Adoptive Parents Are Tired of Hearing
It never fails that a well-meaning family member, friend or passerby will ask a seemingly harmless question that has the power to boil an adoptive parent’s blood. Which of these are you most tired of hearing?
6
Jul
2016
Inexpensive Family Vacation Ideas for Summer
I love summertime in Kansas City! As a teacher, it’s my chance to get out with my family and explore all this city (and the surrounding suburbs) have to offer. What’s not to love about Kaleidoscope, the trains at Union Station, Worlds of Fun, Oceans of Fun, Deanna Rose…I could go on and on. Oh! I forgot about Shatto Dairy, the Museum at Prairie Fire…we live in a fantastic city!
But every once in awhile, we get the urge to hit the road and see what our neighboring states have to offer. Now, this isn’t as spontaneous as it sounds. This takes research and planning, because we like to do things on the cheap (hence no mention of places like Hawaii). My hope is that these suggestions will save you busy families time and money, when you’re looking for a chance to get out of town for a bit.
30
Jun
2016
Hot and Hungry? Try These Healthy Summer Snacks
Whether you’re having an outdoor picnic, a day at the amusement park, or a road trip, chances are you will need some snacks on hand for the kids. Gummy worms and soda are certainly an appealing option from time to time, but on other occasions, you might be looking for something a little more nutritious.
In order for kids to grow up healthy and strong, they need a variety of nutrients, including protein, fiber, and all kinds of vitamins and minerals. Fortunately, there are many ways to incorporate healthy foods into your kids’ snacks in a way they will love.
29
Jun
2016
Tips for a Safe Fourth of July Celebration
July is just around the corner, as is the Fourth of July holiday…which signals the beginning of the end of summer in my house (we are teachers, reporting to work at the beginning of August). But when we aren’t lamenting the fact that school starts in a month, we like to celebrate the holiday like other Americans with a cookout, dip in the pool, and some fireworks.
27
Jun
2016
Activities to Do with Your Child’s Birth Parents
Summer vacation is a great time to get in touch with your child’s birth parents – or even get together. If you and your child’s birth parents are meeting up over the summer, here are just a few fun things you can do:
23
Jun
2016
Cut Down on Screen Time – Why, How and What to Do Instead
School is finally out for the summer – and for a lot of kids, all that extra time is going towards phones, computers, and video games. While your kids should embrace the activities they enjoy, there are also known benefits to reducing your time with your electronics.
21
Jun
2016
Namaste. It’s International Yoga Day
Ommmmm. Today is International Yoga Day so take a break from your hectic day to stretch it out in a downward dog pose. Oh and be sure to include the little ones!