[ad_1] Nutritious, fluffy, and so easy to make, these Buckwheat Pancakes are a favorite breakfast to share with the kids. They are a gluten-free, loaded with protein and fiber, and just so delicious. Buckwheat Pancakes I love having easy options for weekend breakfasts—especially recipes that work for family and friends with gluten intolerances. These pancakes […]

[ad_1] Having a smart freezer stash of some of the best healthy frozen foods can be a great safety net for super busy days—or weeks when you can’t make it to the grocery store. Here are my go-to family-friendly frozen foods. Best Frozen Foods You certainly don’t need to keep all of these frozen foods […]

[ad_1] With a quick method and a delicious, creamy texture, these Blended Overnight Oats are a favorite make-ahead breakfast to share with the kids. Blended Overnight Oats I’ve been making Overnight Oats for my kids since they were babies. My recipe that uses applesauce as the base is a forever favorite and I am so […]

[ad_1] With two kinds of apple for the best flavor and a tender texture, this is our absolute favorite Applesauce Cake. It’s easy, stores well, and is just so delicious. Applesauce Cake There are few things better than easy snack cakes and this applesauce cake is one of our favorites. It has double apple goodness […]

[ad_1] When life is hard, how can our family cope? What do we prioritize when we have to make tough choices? Listen to our season opener to learn what parents can offer our kids to help turn their adversity into resilience! Mackenzie DeJong Aunt of four unique kiddos. Passionate about figuring how small brains develop, […]

[ad_1] One pot and under 30 minutes? Yes! This homemade Hamburger Helper recipe is a fast dinner option that’s satisfying, comforting, and so darn delicious. Homemade Hamburger Helper It’s easier than I realized to recreate Hamburger Helper at home, or to just try a homemade version of this popular option if you’ve not had it […]

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 08/30/2023    Updated: 08/30/2023 Looking for some fall activities for kids? Check out this list of 25+ easy, fun fall-themed ideas that work well for all kid-ages. Remember: fall doesn’t have to mean expensive bucket lists and Pinterest plans. Simple activities at home make fall come to life. What are the best […]

[ad_1] Learn how to simplify mornings with these easy breakfast meal prep ideas to make for the kids—and yourself. Each of these can be made in minutes ahead of time, is seriously yummy, and loaded with nutrition. Breakfast Meal Prep I love having easy breakfast foods on hand, including cereal and toast, but I also […]

[ad_1] These fluffy Applesauce Pancakes are easy to mix up, taste sweet and comforting, and the leftovers store nicely in the fridge or freezer. Oh: They are really yummy topped with maple syrup—or served plain! Applesauce Pancakes Every weekend, we have pancakes or waffles. We have a little more time to cook and it’s a […]

[ad_1] Find the best trusted lunch containers for kids and adults to make sorting through the options much easier. These picks for lunch boxes, thermoses, dip containers, water bottles, and insulated bags are durable, affordable, and easy to clean. Lunch Containers I know firsthand that shopping for lunch boxes, thermoses, snack containers, insulated lunch bags, […]

[ad_1] With one simple method, you can make the best Orzo Pasta Salad using your family’s favorite ingredients and dressing. This is infinitely flexible, it stores well so you can make it ahead, and it’s great cold or at room temperature. Fresh, fast, and so yummy, this Orzo Pasta Salad is a fast vegetarian main […]

[ad_1] It’s frustrating when kids make messes but you’re left to clean them up. Nagging about kids cleaning and yelling until it’s over isn’t a fun way to finish a day of play. Read this post to learn more about how clean-up looks from a kid perspective, why cleaning up can be a struggle, and […]

[ad_1] Packed with produce, whole grains, and yummy flavor, these Morning Glory Muffins are a perfect way to start the day—or to refuel throughout the day. Try the muffins warm for breakfast or for snack. And know they freeze well so you can add them to your stash! This post is sponsored by Colavita Morning […]

[ad_1] Mackenzie and Suzanne make ‘cents’ of some of the most-asked allowance questions in this bonus episode.  https://fb.watch/mBahZGOj4Q/ Mackenzie DeJong Aunt of four unique kiddos. Passionate about figuring how small brains develop, process, and differ. Human Sciences Specialist, Family Life in western Iowa with a B.S. in Family and Consumer Sciences and Design minor. More […]

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 08/19/2023    Updated: 08/19/2023 Making a rainbow rice sensory bin is one of the easiest and most satisfying DIY projects. In this post, you’ll learn how to dye rice (in a taste safe way) and find sensory bin activities that can be done once the rice dries. Grab your rice, food coloring, […]

[ad_1] This quick Rice Noodle Salad is a favorite family dinner when I don’t feel like cooking—you just have to boil water, then the rest is assembly only! It takes about 20 minutes and is so fresh and delish. Rice Noodle Salad My new cookbook, Dinnertime SOS, is a collection of fast and yummy dinners […]

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 08/17/2023    Updated: 08/17/2023 Fine motor skills develop throughout childhood, but how do you support those growing muscles? Try this list of 25+ fine motor activities designed to help kids build their strength and dexterity. These easy activities make growing fine motor skills fun for everyone. What are fine motor skills? Fine […]

[ad_1] Learn how to make the yummiest Peach Yogurt with just a few ingredients to serve fruit-on-the-bottom style, mixed together, in a pouch, or in a bowl with a spoon. This is fast, easy to store, and works with fresh or frozen peaches. Peach Yogurt After loving my Blueberry Yogurt and Strawberry Yogurt, I have […]

[ad_1] Make quick work of breakfast or snack time with this satisfying (and so yummy) Protein Banana Bread. It’s a delicious mix of nutrients and is perfect to make ahead and share with the kids. This post is sponsored by Stonyfield. Protein Banana Bread I love having ready-to-go breakfasts on hand to help simplify our […]

[ad_1] Use this list of kids lunches the next time you’re at a loss for what to pack in the lunchbox or for what to serve at home for the midday meal. There are kids lunches and toddler lunch ideas here so you can save time with these quick-reference concepts to make it all easier. […]

[ad_1] With just four simple and affordable ingredients, you can make tender Baked Chicken Meatballs to share with the kids. Bonus: You can tuck a veggie into the mix, and they are perfect to batch-cook and stash in the freezer! Baked Chicken Meatballs Meatballs are one of the foods I grew up eating regularly and […]

[ad_1] Combine the best of both quick-bread worlds with this easy Zucchini Banana Bread. It’s delicious chilled or warm, as breakfast or a snack, and is a perfect use for ripe banana and zucchini. Zucchini Banana Bread I love an easy quick bread recipe to take care of breakfast and snack for the coming week […]

[ad_1] Imagine the very best banana bread crossed with the ultimate blueberry muffin. This quick bread is epic! [ad_2] Source link

[ad_1] I may be prone to hyperbole, but this Blueberry Banana Bread is ridiculously delicious. Imagine the very best banana bread crossed with the ultimate blueberry muffin. Epic! Blueberry Banana Bread There are few things I love more than a slice of banana bread—and when you add in blueberries, well, it’s the best! This recipe […]

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 08/04/2023    Updated: 08/04/2023 What are the best bath toys for kids? Bath toys are a shockingly important part to the bath time equations but which toys are the most beloved? This list, compiled from 10 years of at home data, has the bath time answers. Do kids need bath toys? Yes […]

[ad_1] With just five ingredients and a texture and flavor that’s similar to a soft oatmeal cookie, these Banana Oatmeal Bars are a nutritious (and yummy!) make-ahead breakfast or snack. Banana Oatmeal Bars I am so happy to share this recipe today because it has become a new staple weekday breakfast in our house. It’s […]

[ad_1] With bright fruit flavor and a simple crisp topping, this Peach Crisp recipe comes together with pantry staples and either fresh or frozen peaches. It’s a yummy fruit dessert to share with the whole family! Easy Peach Crisp Recipe This Peach Crisp is one of my go-to summer desserts. It makes a lot, is […]

[ad_1] With just 4 simple ingredients, this Cucumber Yogurt Sauce comes together in minutes and is a flavorful, yet mild topping or dip to make grain bowls, chicken, meatballs, veggies, pita chips, and more extra yummy. Cucumber Yogurt Sauce Adding kid-friendly sauces to family meals can be an easy way to add flavor that everyone […]

[ad_1] If you have a toddler throwing food, you know firsthand how frustrating it can be. Here’s why it might be happening and a few easy things you can try to decrease food throwing at the table. Toddler Throwing Food Sometimes toddlers throw food to get a reaction as they learn that they’re independent from […]

[ad_1] Change up the usual sandwich lunch for these easy and fun pinwheel sandwiches. With easy options for the filling to please a variety of eaters, this is a great kids lunch for home or at school. (And yummy for adults, too!) Pinwheel Sandwiches I love making all sorts of wraps for kids, and using […]

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 07/23/2023    Updated: 07/23/2023 An outside-the-box painting activity that uses literal boxes – and it’s a 10/10. If you’re looking for an interesting art project for kids, try this painted box cake activity. It’s the perfect outdoor activity for kids to try alone or in a group. What is a painted box […]

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 07/23/2023    Updated: 07/23/2023 Skip the sand this summer and switch to a dirt box: it’ll change everything. This construction site small world is an amazing example of why dirt in your sand table is the way to go. Check out this easy outdoor activity that only needs dirt and trucks What […]

[ad_1] With just two simple ingredients, you can make the yummiest creamy Chocolate Chia Pudding that’s both delicious and nutritious. We love this most for breakfast, but it’s a great snack or dessert, too. Chocolate Chia Pudding There are only two ways that I’ve found that my kids enjoy eating chia seeds—in my Blueberry Chia […]

[ad_1] Simplify warm-weather cooking with this vetted list of summer meals. With easy options for each meal fo the day meant to shorten the time you spend in the kitchen (and not turn on the oven as much as possible!), these are a great way to simplify in the summer. Summer Meals I am always […]

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 07/14/2023    Updated: 07/14/2023 This simple idea for making chalk paint only needs two ingredients and a grater. It’s process art meets a motor skills workout and a science lesson – and it’s absolutely perfect. What is chalk paint? Chalk paint (in this instance) is created by combining chalk dust with water. […]

[ad_1] With just 5 minutes and basic pantry ingredients, you can make the yummiest Homemade Hummus without tahini. This means that it’s nut-free, so it’s an option for school and allergy families, and it’s just perfect for dunking crackers or spreading on bread. Hummus without Tahini Making hummus at home can seem daunting, but it’s […]

[ad_1] These Fruit Snacks (which some call fruit gummies) have fruits and veggies, are easy to make, and taste super yummy. They even have protein and are soft enough for toddlers to safely chew. They’re a seriously fun snack! Fruit Snacks Raise your hand if your kiddo loves fruit snacks! Mine sure does and even though […]

[ad_1] You can make the yummiest Peach Crumb Bars with simple ingredients and fresh or canned peaches. This recipe is perfect for dessert or snack—and is even allergy-friendly, too! Peach Crumb Bars I am all about recipes I can make with a base of pantry staples, and this recipe is one of our favorites to […]

[ad_1] Crispy on the outside and tender in the middle, these Zucchini “Fries” are a really delicious way to serve zucchini. Pair with a favorite dipping sauce to make them even yummier. Zucchini Fries When it’s high zucchini season, I am looking for all of the ways to use it up. And at other times […]

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 07/07/2023    Updated: 07/07/2023 What exactly is kinetic sand and how do kids play with it? Is it reusable? Taste safe? Should you buy it or DIY it? Explore the ins and outs of kinetic sand with answers to all these questions and more. It’s time to become a kinetic sand expert. […]

[ad_1] Stir together this wholesome Blueberry Baked Oatmeal before bed, pop it into the oven when you wake up, and you can sit down to a hearty bowl of oatmeal with the family without any standing by the stove and stirring. Plus: It reheats so well! Blueberry Baked Oatmeal This breakfast recipe is easy and […]

[ad_1] With just a few ingredients, including frozen or fresh mixed berries, you can bake up a delicious (low added sugar) Berry Crisp recipe bursting with fruit goodness. Add some ice cream or whipped cream for a final touch. Berry Crisp Recipe There are few desserts as easy and as rewarding to me to make […]

[ad_1] Transform fresh or frozen berries into the yummiest Blueberry Sauce to top oatmeal, pancakes, and yogurt. It’s ready in about 15 minutes and can even be frozen for easy meal prep! Blueberry Sauce I’ve always loved using fruit sauces as dips and toppings for food I make for my family, and this blueberry version […]

[ad_1] With just a few pantry staples, you can make the creamiest, most luxe vegan Chocolate Mousse to share with the kids … or to just enjoy yourself. This takes minutes to make and is downright dreamy. Vegan Chocolate Mousse This might be my favorite fast dessert ever, especially because I can make it whenever […]

[ad_1] To help you make the most of your berries, this collection includes my favorite Strawberry Recipes to share with kids for breakfast, snack, and dessert. Strawberry Recipes Whether you go strawberry picking and have an excess to use, or you want to try a new way to serve them, these recipes are my favorites. […]

[ad_1] Here’s how to choose a baby food maker that’s durable, easy to use, and worth the cost. Get tips on how to choose, which foods to make, and how to know if you need one. Baby Food Makers When I was a new mom, it was so hard to know which gear I needed […]

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 06/29/2023    Updated: 06/29/2023 Looking for a super simple, but major wow-factor activity? Try setting up an outdoor colored water station. Using just water, paint, and some kitchen utensils, this activity comes together in seconds… but holds little attention spans much longer. Why create an outdoor colored water station? Kids love water. […]

[ad_1] Learn which color of banana can cause constipation and which can actually help alleviate it with this quick guide (plus recipes to try). Do Bananas Cause Constipation? Whether bananas cause constipation depends the ripeness which is detectable by the color of the peel. Underripe bananas, so ones that are more green than yellow, have […]

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 06/28/2023    Updated: 06/28/2023 Create this shockingly easy backyard game with just a few supplies. Sponge targets is a great outdoor activity for all ages. From toddlers to adults, this simple summer fun is perfect for all. What are sponge targets? The best part of summer is taking playtime outside. Combine outside […]

[ad_1] Pack fruits and veggies into your next batch of freezer pops with these super simple and delicious Blueberry Popsicles. That’s right—they even have a dose of spinach inside for extra nutrition for the kids! Blueberry Popsicles Whenever the weather warms up, and we’re spending more and more time outside, I try to keep our […]

[ad_1] An outdoor science bin is an epic summer activity. With just some baking soda and vinegar, kids can experience a combination art and science activity. This is one of the best and easiest activities to do with kids. Why make an outdoor science bin? Hello friends and welcome to my “let’s make giant activities […]

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 06/23/2023    Updated: 06/23/2023 You need to make a rainbow rice sensory bin… today. This is one of the best sensory activities for toddlers and preschoolers, and beloved by big kids still. It’s surprisingly easy to create and absolutely beautiful. What is a rainbow rice sensory bin? A rainbow rice sensory bin […]

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 06/23/2023    Updated: 06/23/2023 Enjoy this “how-to” article for making a frozen paint summer activity. This perfect outdoor art project provides a sensory, science, and creative way to explore paint. This activity works for toddler to big kids. What is frozen paint? Summertime = all the art outside. Don’t get me wrong: […]

[ad_1] When should kids start using scissors? This will vary home to home, but I recommend introducing scissors between 2-3 years old. Kids then can become comfortable with scissors between 3-5 which support their use in school. How do you help left handed kids with cutting? First off, I’m left-handed and so is my husband. […]

[ad_1] Hitting the road with the family is usually equal parts exciting and daunting. To help, these 50 easy road trip snacks will get you started packing and eating healthy meals and snacks for yourself and the kids. Road Trip Snacks We’ve taken a few long trips as a family and boy oh boy, I […]

[ad_1] Wow, this recipe for Date Bars is so good. It’s super moist and easy for little ones to chew, and it’s made with a handful of wholesome ingredients that taste seriously good too. It’s ready in under30 minutes and stores amazingly well. Date Bars This bar recipe is a yummy snack or breakfast since […]

[ad_1] With just three simple ingredients and a quick stir-together method, this 3-ingredient Banana Pudding hits the spot. There are even a few variations so you can customize the sweetness level as you prefer. 3 Ingredient Banana Pudding Whenever the mood for pudding strikes, we turn to either my Chocolate Avocado Pudding or this super […]

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 06/20/2023    Updated: 06/20/2023 Looking for summer activities for kids that are awesome but in no way complicated? Welcome. This list of easy, fun, and engaging outdoor activities to try this summer is perfection. What are the best summer activities for kids? Hello, summer. We’ve been waiting for you. We’re ready for […]

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 06/19/2023    Updated: 06/19/2023 If your children have grown too tall for a store bought water table, consider making a DIY water table from PVC pipes. The design is simple but the end result is anything but basic. Keep kids enjoying outdoor activities longer with this project. Why make a DIY water […]

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 06/19/2023    Updated: 06/19/2023 If your child loves vehicles, this “clean the trucks” activity is perfect for them. With just a few quick ingredients, you can set this outdoor activity up in seconds – and end up with a child playing for much longer. What is a clean the trucks activity? Cleaning […]

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 06/19/2023    Updated: 06/15/2021 This activity proves it: dot stickers are amazing indoors and out. Try this outdoor dot sticker line-up to see. It’s a fine motor wonderland and a perfect activity for quiet outside play. My love of dot stickers has been long, storied, and well-documented. I love dot stickers something […]

[ad_1] Transform yogurt and fruit into the yummiest Yogurt Bars with this simple method. It’s a fun way to serve yogurt, it’s a great snack for warm days, and it’s a fun option for teething relief for littles. We like this with a base of granola, but you can skip that if you prefer. Yogurt […]

[ad_1] This quick and easy Blueberry Banana Smoothie is a great option for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert. It packs Vitamin C, potassium, healthy fats, and fiber to keep little bellies full and happy. Blueberry Banana Smoothie I try to always keep blueberries and bananas in our freezer so we have easy ingredients for […]

[ad_1] In the eleventh season of the podcast, our cohosts, Mackenzie Johnson and Dr. Suzanne Bartholomae, explore research and reality on all things kids and money. On this page, you’ll find an outline of the season’s content and a brief description of each episode. S11: Ep. 1 – Financial ParentingDid you know you are practicing […]

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 06/15/2023    Updated: 06/15/2023 Ice cream in a bag is one of the quintessential summer activities for kids. The best part: it’s actually doable and you don’t need a bunch of fancy ingredients. This gross motor workout will quickly become a core memory for your family. Can you actually make ice cream […]

[ad_1] This fresh Pineapple Smoothie is flavorful (think Dole Whip), nutritious, and a perfect breakfast or snack to share with the kids. Plus: It has probiotics, fiber, and protein, too. This post is sponsored by Seed. Pineapple Smoothie Whenever the weather warms up, smoothies go into regular rotation in our house—and this pineapple one is […]

[ad_1] Transform fresh or frozen berries into the yummiest Strawberry Sauce to top yogurt, oatmeal, pancakes, and yogurt. It’s ready in under 15 minutes and can even be frozen for easy meal prep! Strawberry Sauce I love using fruit sauces as dips to add flavor to kids meals, as toppings for pancakes, oatmeal, and cake, […]

[ad_1] Transform three kinds of fruit into the most fun popsicle to share with the kids. These homemade Rocket Pops are easy, flavorful, and perfect for celebrating. Rocket Pops My girls love the bright red, white, and blue popsicles that make a frequent appearance at holiday parties each summer, so I thought I’d put our […]

[ad_1] Make the most of the produce you buy—and reduce food waste and maximize your food budget in the process—with these easy tips to make your produce last longer. How to Store Produce There’s nothing worse than tossing fresh berries or veggies that have sat in the fridge too long, or that went badly immediately […]

[ad_1] Seriously tender, easy to stir together, and loaded with the classic flavors you expect from zucchini bread, this Zucchini Cake is the most delicious. It’s great for using up excess zucchini or to celebrate any occasion. Zucchini Cake After I perfected my Carrot Cake Bars, I knew I wanted to share a zucchini version […]

[ad_1] Think of this like a bright, fresh, and easy version of an Alfredo sauce. Greek yogurt is the star here, and combined with lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs, it’s a delicious pasta recipe to share with the kids. Pasta with Yogurt Sauce Having another easy option for creamy pasta is always a good thing […]

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 06/04/2023    Updated: 06/04/2023 Looking for some new painting ideas for kids? Think “outside the canvas” with these unique painting activities. Ditch the white paper and try these fun ways to paint with kids. What are some painting ideas for kids? There’s so much more to painting with kids than white paper […]

[ad_1] With just 3 ingredients and no churning or special methods required, this Blueberry Ice Cream is a fast treat that always hits the spot. Blueberry Ice Cream I have experimented with so many flavors of easy homemade ice cream that don’t require an ice cream maker because I love being able to make quick […]

[ad_1] Here are my favorite books about food—including how to feed kids and our larger relationship with food and bodies—that have informed my own thinking about my work. And they are where I turn whenever real-life challenges arise with food or feeding. Best Books About Food I know we all want a quick fix when […]

[ad_1] Whether online shopping, utilizing a product, or viewing an advertisement – we are consumers and so are our children. Listen to the season finale to hear about how we can help raise kids to be informed and intentional consumers! Mackenzie DeJong Aunt of four unique kiddos. Passionate about figuring how small brains develop, process, […]

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 05/31/2023    Updated: 05/31/2023 Trying to figure out how to organize toys in the backyard and garage? Check out these genius outdoor toy storage ideas that are realistic and have been successful for years. These ideas may not be “Pinterest-perfect” but they’re effective ways to keep outdoor toys tidy. How do you […]