Tag: blogger

Categories
Kids Activites

Teaching Kids Empathy and Compassion through Books

My good friend Alison Manahan is a Speech Language Pathologist, specializing in early speech and language intervention and she also is an Usborne Books & More consultant.  As an SLP, Ali chooses Usborne Books because the books are interactive, colorful, and engaging.  Children love being part of the book whether it be lifting flaps, using flashlights to discover secrets or learn about their favorite topics through internet linked titles.  With Usborne, children will get factual information in a fun way, for all ages!

I asked for her help in compiling her favorite books for helping our kids learn empathy and compassion. I’ve included her links for easy shopping!

Boy Boy is a book about two groups fighting and a very special boy, who cannot hear and uses signs to communicate, that helps the two groups understand each other in a new way.  Click the picture to order.

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Room on Our Rock There are two ways to read this story. When read from left to right, the seals believe there is definitely no room on their rock for others. When the book is read backward, the seals welcome others to shelter on their rock. A heartwarming story about sharing and compassion. Click picture to order

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The Extraordinary Life of Malala Yousafzai Attacked by the Taliban for daring to stand up for girls’ education, this young woman is a voice for the oppressed and an inspiration for people fighting for justice all over the world.

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All About Families Families come in all shapes and sizes and from all sorts of backgrounds. They speak various languages, eat different sorts of food, live in different kinds of homes, and celebrate special occasions in a variety of ways. This book lets children explore questions such as ‘What is a family?’, ‘What different sorts of families are there?’, and more. Click picture to order.

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Can I Join Your Club?  Duck just has one question: Can I Join Your Club?

He wants to belong to all of them. To any of them. Elephant Club, Lion Club, he just wants to belong. And he tries so hard to fit in so he can – kids will love pointing out in the illustrations just exactly how he tries – a curly wig, dark glasses – but it just doesn’t work. He can’t be someone else.

So, he starts his own club. And there’s ONE rule – everyone is welcome! Because when it comes to making friends, being yourself is all that counts, in this heartwarming celebration of diversity, inclusiveness and friendship. Click picture to order.

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Polly and Buster  Top of Form A spellbinding trilogy about the magic of friendship. Everyone knows that witches don’t mix with monsters. Witches are educated, clever, sophisticated. But monsters? Monsters are just uncouth. Some are even dangerous.

But Polly the witch and Buster the feelings monster have been best friends forever.
It’s the sort of friendship that makes your heart squeeze with happiness.
Somehow, they’ve managed to keep their friendship a secret.
Until one day, when everything changes …

Click picture to order

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Here and There How do people in other countries shop for groceries, go to school or work, or go on vacation? See the ways our lives are different and what we all have in common with this entertaining and informative look at the lives and cultures of people all over the world. Click picture to order

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Bully on the Bus All the emotions seven-year-old Leroy experiences as the bully on the bus taunts and threatens him are perfectly captured in this sensitive and beautifully written verse novel. The heartwarming ending is empowering and offers courage to anyone who’s ever felt small. Click picture to order.

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Stay Strong! The age-appropriate exercises and activities are designed to tackle the complex emotions a child faces and help the child to work out how and why they feel that way. The writing and drawing activities show you how to cope with the way teasing and bullying make you feel, give you ideas about how to feel better and help you to find the courage to make it stop. Click picture to order

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Hope you love this roundup.  Please comment below with what books you ordered!

Love,

Jenna

Categories
Budget Friendly Finds Kids Fashion Men’s Fashion Women's Fashion

Patriotic Wear for the Whole Family

Infant Boy 4th of July Shortall / Infant Boy Shorttail with Flag / Toddler Girl Smocked Flag Dress / Infant Boy Bubble/ Infant Boys Striped Overall/ Infant Girls Red and White Romper / Toddler Girl Heart Romper / Toddler Girl Navy and White Dress / Toddler Girl Checkered Top/Skirt/Toddler Girl Swim Suit / Toddler Slip on Shoe / SunSan Sweetheart Sandals / Toddler Pull-on Shorts/ Toddler Boy 4th of July set /Boys 3-Pack T-shirts / Comfy Boy Pull-on shorts/ Men’s Under Armor Flag T-shirt / Men’s Amazon Essential Shorts/ Men’s Amazon Essential Anchor Shorts/Men’s Short Sleeve Oxford/ Men’s Anchor Short Sleeve Oxford / Under Armour Canvas Slides / Men’s Cole Haan Leather Slides / Men’s USA hat / Women’s Ruffle Sleeve Dress / Navy Blue Women’s Button up dress /Striped Women’s Button Up Dress / Navy Blue Tank Swing Dress / Women’s cropped USA t-shirt / Women’s LIT tank top / Women’s USA Tank Top / Women’s USA t-shirt / Women’s Distressed Shorts in White/ Rattan Earring Set / Women’s Slides

Categories
Kids Activites

Boredom Busters

These days can be long and leave your kids asking you “what’s next!” I made you a great guide of boredom busters so you never have to hear “I’m bored” again! Tip: Rotate new and old toys in and out of your playroom to help beat boredom before it starts!

Sensory play

We have tried many different kinds of play snow. We’ve ordered the kind you make on your own (do not recommend—-way messy!) and other that eventually falls apart. We got this particular brand before Christmas time and love it! It’s such a fun texture, super light and it’s really fun. It can get messy inside, but it’s really easy to vacuum up so I never mind letting them play it in the play room or at the kitchen table. This kit comes with molds, which is fun, because the snow holds it’s shape well.

Click here to order https://amzn.to/3d4Vydu

Speaking of play snow, we’ve also tried making it at home. My kids have also had fun playing with our homemade snow. I will be honest, I don’t love the texture, it kind of gives me goosebumps, but it smells good and is fun for multiple play sessions. We happened to have some miniature trees leftover from Christmas, so we threw those in there with a couple construction vehicles. Here’s what you need to make it:

  • 3 cups baking soda (I have a big bag that I keep on hand for projects and cleaning) Tried to link it for you but it’s out of stock on Amazon currently?
  • 1/2 cup hair conditioner-we just have a cheap bottle ordered from Amazon-like this: https://amzn.to/3cXQo2Q

Mix together until you have the right consistency and enjoy.

 

Fine Motor

These get played with so often in my house! I like them because they are a good fine motor tasks but easy enough for my three year old to do it on her own. https://amzn.to/2LPdD3n

https://amzn.to/2LPdD3n

We seem to get some sort of magentic tiles for a gift every birthday, which I am NOT complaining about. My kids mix and match the name brand with the other brands and other magnetic toys we have. Linking some sets below:  https://amzn.to/36jSRT3

https://amzn.to/36jSRT3

This includes pieces to make a marble run

https://amzn.to/3eZ8Mdp– These are another fun fine motor toy that is fun for my 5 year old and 3 year old.

 

 

Gross Motor

Set up an indoor obstacle course

We have a Nugget Comfort couch which adds to the variety of obstacles we set up. We also have a kids balance beam, stepping stones and little orange cones that we use to create indoor space to run and jump!

Balance beam, similar to ours, linked here: https://amzn.to/3gdXFOr

Stepping stones, linked here https://amzn.to/2WTRebz

Kids cones, we purchased these for a construction themed birthday party , but continue to use them daily https://amzn.to/2KKljU9

The ultimate energy burner

A bounce house. I never thought I’d have one in my house, and here I am, living the dream. My kids LOVE when we get the bounce out. If you have the space, you won’t regret your decision to make this purchase.

https://amzn.to/35cGLdX

 

 

We use this foam ramp and steps allllll the time with our Nugget Couch and balance beam! They go on sale periodically too!! https://amzn.to/36ldVZb

 

This post contains affiliate links

Categories
Kids Activites

Boredom Busters

These days can be long and leave your kids asking you “what’s next!” I made you a great guide of boredom busters so you never have to hear “I’m bored” again! Tip: Rotate new and old toys in and out of your playroom to help beat boredom before it starts!

Sensory play

We have tried many different kinds of play snow. We’ve ordered the kind you make on your own (do not recommend—-way messy!) and other that eventually falls apart. We got this particular brand before Christmas time and love it! It’s such a fun texture, super light and it’s really fun. It can get messy inside, but it’s really easy to vacuum up so I never mind letting them play it in the play room or at the kitchen table. This kit comes with molds, which is fun, because the snow holds it’s shape well.

Click here to order https://amzn.to/3d4Vydu

Speaking of play snow, we’ve also tried making it at home. My kids have also had fun playing with our homemade snow. I will be honest, I don’t love the texture, it kind of gives me goosebumps, but it smells good and is fun for multiple play sessions. We happened to have some miniature trees leftover from Christmas, so we threw those in there with a couple construction vehicles. Here’s what you need to make it:

  • 3 cups baking soda (I have a big bag that I keep on hand for projects and cleaning) Tried to link it for you but it’s out of stock on Amazon currently?
  • 1/2 cup hair conditioner-we just have a cheap bottle ordered from Amazon-like this: https://amzn.to/3cXQo2Q

Mix together until you have the right consistency and enjoy.

 

Fine Motor

These get played with so often in my house! I like them because they are a good fine motor tasks but easy enough for my three year old to do it on her own. https://amzn.to/2LPdD3n

https://amzn.to/2LPdD3n

We seem to get some sort of magentic tiles for a gift every birthday, which I am NOT complaining about. My kids mix and match the name brand with the other brands and other magnetic toys we have. Linking some sets below:  https://amzn.to/36jSRT3

https://amzn.to/36jSRT3

This includes pieces to make a marble run

https://amzn.to/3eZ8Mdp– These are another fun fine motor toy that is fun for my 5 year old and 3 year old.

 

 

Gross Motor

Set up an indoor obstacle course

We have a Nugget Comfort couch which adds to the variety of obstacles we set up. We also have a kids balance beam, stepping stones and little orange cones that we use to create indoor space to run and jump!

Balance beam, similar to ours, linked here: https://amzn.to/3gdXFOr

Stepping stones, linked here https://amzn.to/2WTRebz

Kids cones, we purchased these for a construction themed birthday party , but continue to use them daily https://amzn.to/2KKljU9

The ultimate energy burner

A bounce house. I never thought I’d have one in my house, and here I am, living the dream. My kids LOVE when we get the bounce out. If you have the space, you won’t regret your decision to make this purchase.

https://amzn.to/35cGLdX

 

 

We use this foam ramp and steps allllll the time with our Nugget Couch and balance beam! They go on sale periodically too!! https://amzn.to/36ldVZb

 

This post contains affiliate links

Categories
Women's Fashion

Summer Walmart Finds for under $20

Summer Staple

This is my new summer uniform!  It might replace my joggers….probably not though.  This dress is so soft, I love the cut and the pocket detail on the chest is so adorable. Fits true to size, but would size down if between sizes. With this dress, I was able to style it several different ways to make it a versatile dress for work and play!  Linked here https://bit.ly/2WNvcat

Navy Blue Swing Dress

This dress is another closet staple, coming in under $10 and available in may colors, this is also a versatile summer staple.  I love the soft fabric and FUNCTIONAL pockets!  See below how I styled it for all your summer needs! Linked here https://bit.ly/3e53gV8

Camo shorts

These shorts are fun and comfy! It appears they aren’t available on line right now, though things come back in stock often.  Here are some other colors that might be fun for summer!  These fit true to size. Here’s the link to order https://bit.ly/2Zri1gS

Front Tie Tank

Easy to wear both knotted in the front or on the side. Cute with a front tuck or untucked for as a more casual look.  Linked here https://bit.ly/2TkoqGW

V-neck Tank

This stylish, comfotable and versatile tank makes for another great summer staple.  Fits true to size, size down for a more fitted look.  Gray tank linked here https://bit.ly/3ean4qt

Overalls

I bought these at the beginning of the spring season and haven’t yet worn them but they are definitely growing on me.  What do you think of the overall trend? I think I’ll get some use of these.  Fit true to size, size down if in between sizes. Linked here https://bit.ly/2ykpQKr

White shorts

The white shorts I have on are from last season, they fit TTS and super cute. So I wanted to find a similar pair this season. This button up pair is even  cuter than last season.  Linked here https://bit.ly/3bOY0n6

Button up Henley

I wanted to grab this top cause I think it would be perfect for so many occasions this summer, but they didn’t have my size.  Looked to run slightly big and boxy, so size down if in between.  Linked here https://bit.ly/3bP9V4q

Cute Sandels

Love these sandals. They come in three different colors and have plenty of sizes available online.  With a price tag under $20, I might get all three colors?!?  Linked here https://bit.ly/2zgWa11

Sunglasses

I’m obsessed with these sunglasses.  They give me ALL the Tom Ford vibes without the price tag!  Definitely worth checking out! Linked here https://bit.ly/36ilwaZ

 

This post contains affiliate links 

 

 

 

 

Categories
Women's Fashion

My top swimsuits picks for $30 or under

 

It’s nearly Memorial Day, which should mean the summer kickoff, the end of the summer and the start of long summer days at the pool. But this year, summer is going to look a little different.  With no pools open, we won’t be spending the hot days running around our public pool, instead, we will be staying cool in the backyard with a baby pool and sprinkler, throw back to my childhood.  However, this has NOT stopped me from getting my summer gear ready, and it shouldn’t you either!  I found some amazing swimsuits for UNDER $30 and here are my favorites! I’m also linking my favorite shoes for summer (Birkenstock dupes!) and my favorite self-tanner, cause let’s be honest, the days of bathing in the sun and getting a nice even tan, without horrible lines, are over for me, at least for now.

Because I spend my summer days with my kiddos at the pool, I wanted to make sure these were appropriate and functional for schlepping three kids and their gear to the pool.  So most of these suits provide a fuller coverage than some options on the market.

One Shoulder Beauty

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This is my top pick because of the fit and the one shoulder look, which I’m a total sucker for! I find the asymmetrical look with the ruching at the belly, making this a flattering fit for several body types.  The bottom coverage is rated at moderate, which I found it to be a more full fit.  This runs small, order one size up, two sizes up if you have a long torso.  This suit, could also be bump friendly for my pregnant friends and very flattering on my post partum mommas! Love this!  Here’s the link https://amzn.to/2Avt3ay

Elegant and Fun

0This swimsuit is great because it takes a simple black suit and makes it elegant with the criss cross in the front.  I love the mesh detail on the straps and at the waist.  Super flattering and easy to wear.  This one runs true to size, I’d order up a size if you have a long torso, I do not have a long torso but I did not find it any too long!  Here’s the link https://amzn.to/2ZcIbnv

Simple and Sweet

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This suit is another simple black suit with the added pop of color with the ruffle on the shoulder. Overall, I really like this suit, but it’s scored the least points with me because of the fit.  I found the overall fit to be snug, even though I ordered but it allowed for a lot of room at the top and I found myself having to pull the shoulders up if I moved around a lot. I think I’ll save this one for a girls day at the pool and not risk a “nip slip” at the pool (can I say “nip slip”???) . Here’s the link https://amzn.to/2yblo0t

pick 4

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You will definitely want to add this one to your cart! This one rings out UNDER $20!!!   I love the black and white stripes and retro vibes.  The cross right above the waist makes for a flattering fit. The v-neck adds some flair but it’s not so deep that it’s hard to wear!  This suit fits true to size, I ordered my regular dress size in this one.  It comes in tons of different color combos if you are looking for something a bit more interesting than black and white (I’m boring).  Here’s the link for ordering https://amzn.to/3cGUpZH

My Birkenstock dupes are linked here https://amzn.to/3bDGv99, ringing in under $20 these are a bargain!  I’ve tried other EVA Birkenstock dupes and not been happy.  These fit true to size, with flexible sizing due to adjustable straps.

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And of course, my favorite self tanner.  So if your days of sunbathing quietly while reading a book and sipping a cocktail are over, like mine, here’s what you need to get you through!  I am obsessed with this self tanner.  I love the color, it’s bronzey, never, ever orange, easy to apply and smells good!  What more could you want in a self-tanner.  I build my color over a couple nights for best results. So go ahead and add to cart with your swimsuits and sandals for the ultimate summer readiness package!  https://amzn.to/2WFeMkj

0

https://amzn.to/3cGUpZH

Categories
Kids Activites

Boredom Busters

These days can be long and leave your kids asking you “what’s next!” I made you a great guide of boredom busters so you never have to hear “I’m bored” again! Tip: Rotate new and old toys in and out of your playroom to help beat boredom before it starts!

Sensory play

We have tried many different kinds of play snow. We’ve ordered the kind you make on your own (do not recommend—-way messy!) and other that eventually falls apart. We got this particular brand before Christmas time and love it! It’s such a fun texture, super light and it’s really fun. It can get messy inside, but it’s really easy to vacuum up so I never mind letting them play it in the play room or at the kitchen table. This kit comes with molds, which is fun, because the snow holds it’s shape well.

Click here to order https://amzn.to/2KHUGz9

Speaking of play snow, we’ve also tried making it at home. My kids have also had fun playing with our homemade snow. I will be honest, I don’t love the texture, it kind of gives me goosebumps, but it smells good and is fun for multiple play sessions. We happened to have some miniature trees leftover from Christmas, so we threw those in there with a couple construction vehicles. Here’s what you need to make it:

  • 3 cups baking soda (I have a big bag that I keep on hand for projects and cleaning) Tried to link it for you but it’s out of stock on Amazon currently?
  • 1/2 cup hair conditioner-we just have a cheap bottle ordered from Amazon-like this: https://amzn.to/3cXQo2Q

Mix together until you have the right consistency and enjoy.

 

Fine Motor

These get played with so often in my house! I like them because they are a good fine motor tasks but easy enough for my three year old to do it on her own.

https://amzn.to/3d05BjY

We seem to get some sort of magentic tiles for a gift every birthday, which I am NOT complaining about. My kids mix and match the name brand with the other brands and other magnetic toys we have. Linking some sets below:

https://amzn.to/3eXCNKt -These are currently on sale!

https://amzn.to/2y88YX6 -This includes pieces to make a marble run

https://amzn.to/3eZ8Mdp– These are another fun fine motor toy that is fun for my 5 year old and 3 year old.

 

 

Gross Motor

Set up an indoor obstacle course

We have a Nugget Comfort couch which adds to the variety of obstacles we set up. We also have a kids balance beam, stepping stones and little orange cones that we use to create indoor space to run and jump!

Balance beam, similar to ours, linked here: https://amzn.to/2Lq2zcN

Stepping stones, linked here https://amzn.to/3bodcHz

Kids cones, we purchased these for a construction themed birthday party , but continue to use them daily https://amzn.to/2KKljU9

The ultimate energy burner

A bounce house. I never thought I’d have one in my house, and here I am, living the dream. My kids LOVE when we get the bounce out. If you have the space, you won’t regret your decision to make this purchase.

https://amzn.to/35cGLdX

We use this foam ramp and steps allllll the time with our Nugget Couch and balance beam! They go on sale periodically too!! https://amzn.to/36ldVZb

This post contains affiliate links