[ad_1] If you are dealing with picky eating, you know the struggle is real. But you might be asking “Why?” and “What can I do?”. Get research-based answers and reality-centered solutions in today’s episode! Mackenzie DeJong Aunt of four unique kiddos. Passionate about figuring how small brains develop, process, and differ. Human Sciences Specialist, Family […]

[ad_1] Use this easy method to make the best Pumpkin French Toast to share with the kids. These are a versatile, delicious breakfast option—and they take less than 15 minutes to make and reheat in 2 minutes! Pumpkin French Toast I love a breakfast that is flavorful, nutritious, and easy to make-ahead and freeze, and […]

[ad_1] With just a handful of nutritious ingredients, these Healthy Pumpkin Muffins are a treat that we love to make and enjoy each fall for breakfast, snack time, or as a simple side dish for dinner. And it’s easy to adjust for allergies as needed! Healthy Pumpkin Muffins This easy muffin recipe is loaded with […]

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 11/17/2022    Updated: 11/17/2022 Let’s talk about the best travel toys for big kids. Traveling with big kids is fun and a bit easier than traveling with toddlers (that’s an understatement). But big kids still need entertain on trips, and I’ve found some of the best travel toys for this older age […]

[ad_1] Parents of teens are sometimes asking “how do I get them to eat enough, but not too much?” Well it turns out that is a layered question! With so much development in this age group, there is a lot to take in. Hear all the insight, strategies, and recommendations in today’s episode. Mackenzie DeJong […]

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 11/17/2022    Updated: 11/15/2022 ‘Tis the season for Christmas, crafting, and all things DIY. But what if you have kids at the holidays? Are there Christmas crafts for kids, too? Welcome to the best curated list of Christmas crafts to try this season with your children. Are there actually doable Christmas crafts […]

[ad_1] Use this list to stock your pantry for easy baking—and always have the essential baking ingredients on hand to make all of your favorite recipes. Baking Ingredients In my job as a full-time content creator and recipe developer, I bake all the time. And I share a lot of recipes for muffins, cookies, breads, […]

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 11/16/2022    Updated: 11/16/2022 Christmas sensory bins make for fantastic holiday play. Created with a holiday version of the famous “rainbow rice,” this is the perfect indoor activity. Save these sensory bins supplies for years to come and you’ll always have a quick and easy Christmas activity for kids. How to start […]

[ad_1] Find the easiest ways to use up a can of leftover pumpkin you may have left from cooking or baking. Find recipes for pumpkin cookies, muffins, cupcakes, smoothies, oatmeal, and more. Leftover Pumpkin Ideas I know firsthand how irritating it can be to buy a can of pumpkin, use some in a recipe, then […]

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 11/15/2022    Updated: 11/15/2022 A Christmas math activity that’s hands-on, easy to prep, and not a printable? Yes, please. The “Christmas Tree Number Match” is the perfect way to play, decorate, and have some math fun this holiday season. What kind of Christmas math activity is this? The “Christmas Tree Number Match” […]

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 11/15/2022    Updated: 11/15/2022 Welcome to “Paint a Tree Farm” – a unique Christmas painting activity for kids. This activity focuses on geometry and art, as kids work with triangles and color hues/shades. With just a few minutes of prep, this easy Christmas art activity comes to life. How this Christmas painting […]

[ad_1] You can quickly make a batch of Cranberry Orange Sauce with this simple 30-minute recipe. You can even make it way ahead of when you plan to serve it and stash it into the freezer if that helps your sanity. It’s so yum! Cranberry Orange Sauce For years, I’ve been making a version of […]

[ad_1] Transform just a few simple ingredients—including a pile of broccoli—into this protein-packed Egg Bake to share with the kids. It’s an easy breakfast or lunch that stores well and is simple to make ahead. Egg Bake After posting my Zucchini Slice recipe and having such an amazing response to it, I knew right away […]

[ad_1] With a super simple, lightly sweetened dough, these Thanksgiving Cookies are such a fun dessert to make and share with the kids. You can do any shape you prefer, though we’re partial to tiny turkeys! Thanksgiving Cookies Ingredients You Need Here’s a look at the ingredients you need to make these Thanksgiving Cookies so […]

[ad_1] Find the most delicious canned pumpkin recipes to make use of a can of pumpkin you already have, as a delicious way to use up leftover pumpkin puree, or just as inspiration for seasonal cooking. Find recipes for pumpkin cookies, muffins, cupcakes, smoothies, oatmeal, and more. Canned Pumpkin Recipes I know that we often […]

[ad_1] Hi, I’m Susie! I’m a former teacher with a Master’s in Early Childhood Education and a mom to 3 kids. My mission is to bring hands-on play and learning back to childhood, support others in their parenting journey, and help everyone make it to nap time. Learn more here. [ad_2] Source link

[ad_1] Find the best make-ahead Thanksgiving recipes (that are also easy) to share with your family this year. Plus, find a game plan to make cooking the holiday meal as stress-free as possible with my best make-ahead tips and tricks so you can enjoy the holiday without spending hours in the kitchen. Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Recipes […]

[ad_1] Whether or not your toddler eats everything you make, it’s likely that they still like to be in the kitchen where all of the action is. These are my favorite kids cooking sets for toddlers and big that are perfectly sized for their smaller hands. They are great gifts for anytime of the year! […]

[ad_1] As children transition into school, the family lifestyle can shift which means eating can change too! In this episode, you’ll learn about specific developmental changes that impact our kids’ eating habits and what you can do to support healthful eating at this age. Mackenzie Johnson Parent to a little one with her own quirks. […]

[ad_1] Learn the easiest way to transform fresh Brussels sprouts into Brussels Sprouts Baby Food to serve as a puree or a baby-led weaning finger food. Brussels Sprouts Baby Food One of the best parts about feeding a baby is getting to share food and meals with them, which is why I love this easy […]

[ad_1] This method for baking a whole batch of French Toast in the oven is truly the best—you can pop the sheet pan in and go do other things—and come back to a whole pan of french toast, ready at the same time! It’s fast, flavorful, and delivers perfectly tender Oven-Baked French Toast, every time. […]

[ad_1] These Fluffy Pumpkin Cookies are soft and delicious, and they almost melt in your mouth. They take only 20 minutes to make and are perfect for Thanksgiving or winter holidays—or any time you have a craving. Pumpkin Cookies These soft-baked cookies taste like mouthfuls of the most delicious pumpkin bread, in cookie form. They […]

[ad_1] Your child’s first 1000 days of their life are a great opportunity to establish their eating habits. Listen in to learn why this time is so important and hear strategies for making the most of this important time! Mackenzie DeJong Aunt of four unique kiddos. Passionate about figuring how small brains develop, process, and […]

[ad_1] Learn the easiest way to make Roasted Acorn Squash to share with the kids as a side dish at family dinner. This works as well for a weeknight meal as it does for a holiday and can even be prepped ahead of time! Roasted Acorn Squash Roasted slices of acorn squash are such an […]

[ad_1] These soft-baked Sweet Potato Cookies are a favorite dessert in our house. They can be made ahead, adjusted for allergies, and topped with a super simple frosting to make them extra special. And they’re a perfect way to use up leftover sweet potato puree. Sweet Potato Cookies These Sweet Potato Cookies may rely on […]

[ad_1] With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can make this cozy Pastina Soup to share with the kids in under 30 minutes. This is a perfect fast meal for any night of the week—or one that’s extra nourishing for anyone dealing with a cold or illness. Pastina Soup Tiny star pasta soup was […]

[ad_1] Make the most of your applesauce supply with these delicious kid-friendly recipes that use applesauce. You can use leftover applesauce, a new jar, or just find recipes that rely on this natural sweetener for little kids. Recipes That Use Applesauce If you find yourself with a little leftover applesauce to use up or wanting […]

[ad_1] By now you’ve heard our hosts tell you that everyone has a natural temperament, come explore how your child’s may be influencing how they eat! 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 […]

[ad_1] These Pumpkin Pancakes stir together in one bowl, are fluffy and flavorful, and are a perfectly cozy breakfast to share with the kids. Pumpkin Pancakes We make pancakes each Sunday, and we tend to rotate flavors throughout the year. A favorite is Pumpkin Pancakes, which are fluffy and nicely spiced from the pumpkin pie […]

[ad_1] If you’re looking for a fun and easy breakfast for the littles come fall, these Baked Chocolate Pumpkin Donuts are a yummy option. Plus: They’re easy to make and packed with protein and classic pumpkin flavor! Pumpkin Donuts I love introducing my kids to my favorite foods, and all things pumpkin flavor rank right […]

[ad_1] Learn the easiest way to cut fresh acorn squash so you can roast it, bake it, puree it, and more for baby food and side dishes. Plus: get storage info and more. How to Cut Acorn Squash Acorn squash, with its curved shape, can be tricky and intimidating to cut. But with this easy […]

[ad_1] Learn the easiest way to turn fresh acorn squash into Acorn Squash Baby Food—as both a puree and a baby-led weaning finger food. This can also work as an easy side dish for the entire family, or you can easily freeze portions for future weeks. Acorn Squash Baby Food When fresh winter squash like […]

[ad_1] Combine 4 simple ingredients to make lower-sugar homemade Chocolate Milk that’s creamy and so super delicious. Plus: You don’t need any fancy tools to make it! Homemade Chocolate Milk There’s something so satisfying about a glass of chocolate milk, and while I admit that I totally balked at the idea of giving kids flavored […]

[ad_1] We may have strong beliefs and values around food and our kids, but what we actually do and say has the most impact. In this episode, you’ll hear practical strategies for raising a healthy and independent eater. Mackenzie DeJong Aunt of four unique kiddos. Passionate about figuring how small brains develop, process, and differ. […]

[ad_1] Use this easy method to make the best French Toast Sticks at home to share with the kids. These are a versatile, affordable alternative to buying frozen ones at the store—and they take less than 15 minutes to make and reheat in 2 minutes! French Toast Sticks My kids love having a range of […]

[ad_1] Learn how to make quick and flavorful Green Bean Baby Food as a baby-led weaning food or as a Stage 1 or 2 puree. Plus, find tips on how to store and combine the puree with other flavors to make yummy baby food combinations. Green Bean Baby Food Green beans are such a common […]

[ad_1] With a quick cooking method and the creamiest texture, this easy Butternut Squash Apple Soup is a family favorite. It’s great for babies on up to adults, happens to be dairy-free, and is packed with vegetarian protein. It’s so darn good. Butternut Squash Apple Soup As soon as the temps drop, this creamy and […]

[ad_1] Learn the easiest way to make a batch of Homemade Applesauce Pouches for easy snacks and meal components. It takes less than 30 minutes and is a perfect for babies and toddlers—and it stores so well, too! Applesauce Pouches I sometimes buy applesauce pouches at the store, but when apples are in season and […]

[ad_1] Fluffy, tender, and just sweet enough, these easy Chocolate Muffins are a favorite breakfast and snack to share with the kids. Bonus: They bake up in less than 20 minutes and store so well! Chocolate Muffins We’ve long made our Chocolate Protein Muffins, Chocolate Chip Mini Muffins, and Chocolate Banana Muffins, but I had […]

[ad_1] Lies, and tantrums, and bad attitudes, oh my! When kids have challenging behaviors, it might be that they need help learning to regulate! Helping our children learn to manage and regulate themselves is a big task for parents. These episodes explain the concept of self-regulation, explore contributing factors, and hone in on strategies to […]

[ad_1] Some of the most common parenting questions are “how do I get my kid to listen to me?” or “What should I do about [insert challenging behavior]?”. The answer to both of these questions is related to the discipline strategies we use. In these episodes, the cohosts look at several factors that influence our […]

[ad_1] Which feeding style do you bring to the table? Listen to hear about the four styles. Plus, learn one of our cohost’s favorite food strategies! Mackenzie Johnson Parent to a little one with her own quirks. Celebrator of the concept of raising kids “from scratch”. Learner and lover of the parent-child relationship. Translator of […]

[ad_1] So every kid is different every stage of parenting has different tasks AND my child has different types of development? Then how do I know what is temperament and what is just “a phase”? These episodes answer that question and more by giving examples of what temperament traits might look and sound like at […]

[ad_1] Every family goes through ups and downs, but sometimes the tough times can feel especially difficult to guide our children through. As parents, we might feel completely overwhelmed, inadequate, or just unsure of how to help our child while we might be struggling too. These episodes discuss skills and strategies parents can use to […]

[ad_1] This easy Apple Baked Oatmeal is moist, flavorful, and packed with whole grains and fruit. Plus, it has a texture that’s soft enough for even the littlest eaters, can be eaten in slices or scooped into a bowl, and stores well in the fridge for days. Apple Baked Oatmeal With an easy method and a […]

[ad_1] This cozy Macaroni Soup is an easy and flavorful family meal—and so nourishing with tomato, beef, and loads of veggies. I love to make this with elbows, but other small pasta shapes such as wagon wheels would work well, too. Macaroni Soup We eat a lot of soup in our house (often on Sundays), […]

[ad_1] With one super simple cooking method, you can roast sweet potato wedges to serve one of three yummy ways—BLW style, mashed, or pureed into classic sweet potato puree. It’s the easiest way to make sweet potato baby food. (And the rest of the family can enjoy it, too!) Sweet Potato Baby Food Sweet potato […]

[ad_1] Transform fresh pumpkin into a perfectly smooth pumpkin baby food. Serve it as is, combine with other flavors and nutrients, and learn tips for freezing it too! Pumpkin Baby Food Fall and winter are a great time of year to make fresh baby food—and pumpkin is a nutrient-dense option to have in the mix. […]

[ad_1] When it comes to food, so many factors influence what we (and our kids) eat. Come explore those influences and meet a new face on the podcast! Mackenzie Johnson Parent to a little one with her own quirks. Celebrator of the concept of raising kids “from scratch”. Learner and lover of the parent-child relationship. […]

[ad_1] Cooking up a storm in a play kitchen is a favorite activity for many kids and a great way to have low-pressure interaction with all sorts of food! Find the BEST play kitchen accessories for kids including blenders, mixers, play food, pretend pots and pans, toasters, and more. Play Kitchen Accessories From essential pots […]

[ad_1] In the fifth season of the podcast, our cohosts, Lori and Mackenzie, explore research and reality of parenting children at each age and stage of child development. On this page, you’ll find an outline of the season’s content and a brief description of each episode. S5: Ep. 1 – Parenting in StagesWhether you’re a new parent […]

[ad_1] In the fourth season of the podcast, our cohosts, Lori and Mackenzie, explore the research and reality to break down the big job of parenting into five core tasks using a parenting model called the RPM3. On this page, you’ll find an outline of the season’s content and a brief description of each episode. […]

[ad_1] These quick stove top Cinnamon Apples cook in under 10 minutes, are perfectly tender, and can be served with or without added sugar. They’re a delicious snack or topping for yogurt or oatmeal—and they taste like apple pie filling! Cinnamon Apples We love apples prepared in all sorts of ways, including Sliced Baked Apples […]

[ad_1] Making Baked Fish Sticks at home delivers the crispiest, most tender results with just a few simple ingredients. They’re a favorite and affordable way to serve fish to kids, and they’re so good that the adults at the table will love them, too! Fish Sticks Real talk: I fully expected my kids not to […]

[ad_1] Meet one of our newest tableware love, the Lalo Big Bites Kit. This collection includes everything the kids need at the table in a sturdy design and the prettiest colors. Read on for a full review, plus tips for usage and care. This post is sponsored by Lalo. Toddler Dishes We’ve long used and […]

[ad_1] Learn how to freeze pancakes the easy way to ensure they are just as good as freshly made when you pull them out of the freezer. I’ll share tips on the best storage bags and how to thaw and heat pancakes, too. How to Freeze Pancakes Knowing how to freeze pancakes is key to […]

[ad_1] Tender, full of apple flavor, and topped with a yummy streusel, these Apple Cinnamon Muffins are a forever favorite muffin. They store well for days and are an easy make-ahead breakfast or snack to share with the kids. Apple Cinnamon Muffins We love baking with apples, and while I’ve had Applesauce Muffins, ABC Muffins, […]

[ad_1] These Healthy Brownies are a delicious option when you have some over-ripe bananas to use up and you’re in the mood for a chocolate dessert. These are fast to make, are just sweet enough, and store amazingly well in the fridge for an entire week. Healthy Brownies Okay real talk: These bananas are so […]

[ad_1] Perfectly creamy Sweet Potato Puree is one of our very favorite easy side dishes (and baby foods!). This is delicious in fall, takes less than 30 minutes, and can be flavored in all sorts of ways to suit your preferences. So yum. Sweet Potato Puree Quickly cooking sweet potatoes, then pureeing them into a […]

[ad_1] In the third season of the podcast, our cohosts, Lori and Mackenzie, explore the research and reality around temperament – which makes each child (and adult) different. On this page, you’ll find an outline of the season’s content and a brief description of each episode. S3: Ep. 1 – Temperament: It’s in Their NatureHow […]

[ad_1] Transform fresh beets into a delicious baby food with this easy method. This works as a baby-led weaning food or as a puree, and it’s easy to make ahead and freeze for future weeks. Beets Baby Food Beets are one of our favorite baby food options since they have a unique earthy flavor, and […]

[ad_1] Learn the easiest method for how to freeze apples to save leftovers and preserve apples to use in smoothies, crisps, cobblers, oatmeal, and more. This 5-minute method is the best! How to Freeze Apples Whenever I slice up apples and my kids don’t eat them all, or I have apples that need to be […]

[ad_1] In the second season of the podcast, our cohosts, Lori and Mackenzie, explore the research and reality around the superpowers of self-care as parents. On this page, you’ll find an outline of the season’s content and a brief description of each episode. S2: Ep. 1 – Being Both a Parent and a PersonBeing a parent is […]

[ad_1] In the first season of the podcast, our cohosts, Lori and Mackenzie, explore the research and reality around common parenting questions related to children’s behavior. On this page, you’ll find an outline of the season’s content and a brief description of each episode. S1: Ep. 1 – All Things Parenting Have parenting questions? Our […]

[ad_1] Learn how to freeze sandwiches and which ones freeze best—because YES, you can freeze sandwiches—to make life easier, especially when it comes to packing lunch. Can you freeze sandwiches? One of my favorite meal prep ideas is to freeze a batch of simple sandwiches for the kids so they’re ready to grab and go […]

[ad_1] I have all kinds of easy ways to incorporate veggies into pasta dishes for kids, but some days, we just need the classic and comforting option of Buttered Noodles. This is my go-to method for the creamiest, easiest buttered pasta to share with the kids. Buttered Noodles It will come as no shock, I […]

[ad_1] Find new and classic ideas for what to make with ripe and overripe bananas—which includes banana bread, yes, but so much more!—with these easy banana recipes. Banana Recipes The next time you find yourself with overripe bananas, do not waste them! Transform them into one of these recipes right away, or stash them into […]

[ad_1] The most tender, flavorful, delicious chicken? This Yogurt Chicken is in the running! The easy chicken recipe is delicious on its own, shredded for kids, or added to pasta, rice, or another favorite meal. Plus, it stores well and can be served cold or warm. Yogurt Chicken We love Baked Chicken Tenders and Chicken […]

[ad_1] Mix up the lunch menu with these easy lunch wraps. They’re each fast to make, use straightforward ingredients that are easy to find, and can be made in minutes. Lunch Wraps Whenever my kids decide they no longer want a sandwich, or I’m out of bread, we turn to wraps. These ideas are easy […]

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 09/18/2022    Updated: 09/18/2022 Introducing a magically, multi-step toddler activity using the supplies you have around the house. This fall sort and paint activity is the perfect combination of nature, math, and art. Plus, it’s a perfect way to make it to nap time. What is a fall sort and paint activity? […]

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 09/18/2022    Updated: 09/18/2022 This simple fall leaf craft is one of the best: a way to connect in nature with toddlers, create art, and practice fundamental skills. Grab your toddler and head outside; this fall craft is one of the best you’ll try this season. What is a fall leaf craft? […]

[ad_1] Learn the easiest way to make a batch of Homemade Applesauce, with six flavor options, in less than 30 minutes. It’s delicious, versatile, and easy to store for future meals and snacks. Homemade Applesauce I sometimes buy applesauce pouches and jarred applesauce at the store, but when apples are in season and I can […]

[ad_1] Learn the easiest way to make a batch of Homemade Applesauce, with six flavor options, in less than 30 minutes. It’s delicious, versatile, and easy to store for future meals and snacks. Homemade Applesauce I sometimes buy applesauce pouches and jarred applesauce at the store, but when apples are in season and I can […]

[ad_1] Find the best, easy weeknight dinners for family meals with these 15 30-minutes (or less!) ideas. With options to make them ahead, freeze them for later, and share with kids of any age. Easy Weeknight Dinners for Family I know that we’re all looking for easy meals that can be made quickly, so this […]

[ad_1] Cheesy, comforting, and packed with plant-based protein and veggies, this family-friendly Chili Mac is a super yummy dinner for everyone at the table. (Bonus: Leftovers reheat so well!) Easy Chili Mac I’m always looking for new pasta dishes to make for my family—because pasta is one ingredient my whole crew loves—and this Chili Mac […]

[ad_1] Use this easy method to make fresh, delicious strawberry juice in just 5 minutes without a juicer. The juice has simple ingredients, vitamin C, fiber, and yummy flavor—and stores really well. Strawberry Juice Making strawberry juice at home is quick and easy, and delivers a really flavorful juice that’s rich in nutrients. It’s one […]