Both Aldi’s beer and wine advent calendars will have the same price as last year
Is it October? Yes. Are we dreaming of Aldi’s wine and cheese advent calendars? Also yes.
The retailer has dropped the 2023 advent calendar collection, and there is definitely something for everyone this year. From global wines and the new Irish Cream Countdown, cozy home decor advent calendars, and pet treats, you’ll want to head to your nearest Aldi on Nov. 1 when the calendars all hit shelves.
Aldi Advent Calendars for Those with a Sophisticated Palate:
Aldi has plenty of holiday cheer to share this year. The Holiday Magic Wine Advent Calendar, in particular, has 24 unique labels and 16 wine varieties from eight countries of origin. Each label has a scannable QR code to learn more about the wine and to explore the region, varietal, and culture of the country.
Other calendars include:
Barissimo Coffee Advent Calendar ($14)
Beer Advent Calendar ($50; in select markets)
Emporium Selection Cheese Advent Calendar ($17)
This must-have calendar is packed with European Cheeses like Dutch Goudas, Red Leicester, and Double Gloucester.
Bay Island Hot Sauce Advent Calendar ($15)
Wicked Grove 12 Days of Cider ($20)
12 Day of Irish Cream Calendar ($30)
Holiday Magic 5 Days of Sweet Red Wine ($20)
Holiday Magic 5 Dayd of Dry Red Wine ($20)
Moser Roth Luxury Chocolate Advent Calendar ($16)
There's even an advent calendar for your pets! The Pure Being Dog Advent Calendar is just $8, and the Pure Being 12 Days of Cat Treats is just $6.
Aldi Advent Calendars for Some Much-Needed Self-Care:
When it comes to self-care this crazy holiday season, Aldi has your back. Choose from seasonal candle calendars and even fun puzzle advent calendars that'll give you a chance to relax.
Huntington Home Advent Calendar ($40)
Merry Moments Advent Calendar Garland ($13)
Mini Puzzle Advent Calendar ($10)
Advent Calendars for Kids:
Aldi's advent calendars for 2023 also offer several fun kids' advent calendars. Cool collectibles and chocolate await with this year's lineup.
Nickelodeon Paw Patrol Advent Calendar ($25)
Pokeman/Cocomelon Advent Calendar ($30)
Compound Kings Slime Advent Calendar ($17)
Moose Toys Bluey Advent Calendar ($20)
Zuri Mini Brands Advent Calendar ($30)
Choceur Kids Advent Calendar ($1.50)
As always, supplies are limited, and calendars are expected to sell out fast. Head to your local Aldi on November 1 to commence with the merry-making!
Have you ever seen a baby costume that wasn’t adorable?
We love a good first. First smile, first time they sit up, and definitely first holidays. Halloween is a super fun one, thanks to the opportunity to put your little one in a costume that somehow makes them even cuter (before they have a strong opinion about what they wear for trick-or-treating, right?). Another bonus? Most baby costumes double as a cozy outfit they can wear while older siblings snag candy around the block on Halloween Eve. Plus, they make for the perfect family Halloween pictures. We’ve put together a list of the cutest and most popular baby costumes for 2023. Read on to check out our picks!
Baby Yoda Costume
Super Hero Stuff
We know his name is actually Grogu, but he'll always be Baby Yoda to us. Includes a robe and matching green ears cap.
We're really sorry for putting the song in your head, but you've gotta admit—it's catchy. Plus, if it leads to the adorable popover Baby Shark costume, we'll deal with the ear worm.
Everything about this sweet lion costume makes it oh-so-Instagram-worthy, down to the red ribbon on the tail! Includes jumpsuit, tail, hood, and booties.
Why wait until the holidays to get into the spirit? Your heart will grow 3 sizes when you see your babe all Grinched up. This costume comes with a hooded costume and shoe covers.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
Get your supply of white sheets ready, because you’re going to need them for a few of these last-minute Halloween costumes
Feeling frightened that it’s almost trick-or-treating time, and you don’t have your kid’s costume ready yet? Check out these easy last-minute Halloween costumes for kids. Many of them can be made with things you have stashed in your closets and dress-up bin, and take less time to make than it takes to eat a supersized candy apple.
Your kiddo can be an Olympian in less time than it takes to sing the national anthem. Pull out a tracksuit, or a leotard if you’ve got a gymnast at home, then dig out a medal from a fun run or a 5k. Have her throw her arms in the air and give a cheer for this easy DIY Halloween costume!
Five supplies are all you need to make this sweet strawberry from Pretty Life Girls. After a quick trip to the craft store, you can whip up this no-sew costume that is adorable, but more importantly is comfortable for kids and adults, too!
Legwarmers, a pair of leggings, and a onesie are all you need to get your heart rate pumping with this DIY aerobics instructor costume. Bigger kids can swap a swimsuit for a onesie. We love that the key ingredients for this costume can be worn again. If you're itching to do a little crafting, check out Primary's DIY felt boombox to take this costume from low-impact fun to step aerobics queen.
Cardboard, gray and white paint, and sharp scissors are all you need to make this easy DIY Halloween costume. Bonus: a fierce shark costume comes with a soundtrack that all the trick-or-treaters will be singing, "do do do." Find out how you can make one of your own over at Hello Wonderful. Check out more of our favorite cardboard box costumes here.
This version might look complicated, but the very easy DIY option requires a white sheet, coffee, white underthings, and not much else! Check out a stress-free tutorial here.
Dig into your kiddo's dance bag, and you'll find the key ingredients for a ballerina costume. Add a fancy updo and voila: you have a future New York City Ballet dancer costume. If you don't have a tutu, check out this easy, no-sew DIY tutu tutorial.
Chew on this cute DIY costume! Gather up balloons, felt, and silver ribbon: that's about all you need to create your own bubblegum costume. While this version features a pink dress, we think a pink t-shirt would work just as well for a kids' Halloween costume. Find the step-by-step instructions at Studio DIY.
Dig out an old pair of pants and your trusty black Sharpie for this easy DIY Halloween costume. With a snip of scissors and a light coat of green makeup, you'll soon have Frankenstein's monster lurching out your front door. Get the tutorial here.
Clear and white balloons pop all over a set of white PJs for this easy DIY Halloween costume—it's bubble bath time on the go! Primary has all the instructions so you can make your own, and then take that rubber ducky for a spin around the block.
Pick your kiddo's favorite emoji and whip up this cute Halloween costume that's easy to customize. You'll be running after your smiley face trick-or-treating in no time. Hello, Wonderful shows you how you can make your own with not much more than cardboard and paint.
Pull out a brightly colored skirt or a tutu and a light t-shirt or leotard, and your little ones will soon be trolls. The awesome hair-dos look impressive—but they're easy to pull off when you follow blogger Doranda's DIY tip. Troll or treat!
With not much more than a big piece of poster board, you can create a perfect paper doll costume. We love that this easy DIY Halloween costume costs way less than a pumpkin spice latte while still being extra eye-catching. Follow the step-by-step directions at Slapdash Mom.
Make your star a constellation this Halloween. Brit + Co's adorable, sparkly costume relies on a gold ribbon and glittery duds that your kiddo probably already has in her closet. They recommend using craft foam for the head-topping star—but cardboard plus gold paint will also work in a pinch.
This adorable wind-up doll is guaranteed to be one of the sweetest DIY costumes you'll find. Plus it's easy and cheap to make it yourself. Find how you can turn your toddler into a doll at Hart + Sew.
In less time than it takes to do the Monster Mash, you can make an adorable black cat costume. Paging Supermom calls it her Super Easy Kitty Cat Costume—and we couldn't agree more. It's a sweet option for preschoolers who change their minds about their costumes at the last minute. See our other favorite cat costumes here.
We love this Morton Salt Girl costume because it's cute, clever, and takes almost no time to pull together. An extra bonus—since it relies on regular clothes, there's nothing that'll make sensitive kids uncomfortable while they're on the hunt for candy. But remember, as Brit + Co will tell you, the container of salt is a key accessory.
This unusual animal costume is simple to make and packs a big punch. Dig out an umbrella and ribbon, then swim over to A Casarella to learn how to make your own easy jellyfish costume. We love her clever tip that'll give this daytime costume a spooky nighttime glow.
Dust off that denim, wrangle up a pair of boots and top it all off with a plaid shirt and a ten-gallon hat. You’ll have everything you need to be a cowgirl or boy costume—minus the horse, of course. If you’ve got a pool noodle left over from summer fun, you can turn it into a horse ready to ride off into the sunset. Yee Haw!
Pirate
iStock
Shiver me timbers! It's easy to pull together a last-minute pirate costume. Grab a striped shirt and wrap a bandit around your kiddo's head. Pull out a pair of old pants and cut off the hem, using some shark teeth-style zigzags If you'd like a little extra flair, add eyeliner, a pile of necklaces, and make your tiny Blackbeard a cardboard cutlass. Don't forget to check our guide on how to talk like a sailor!
Calling all sports fans! Dig out your kid's fave jersey—whether it's football, hockey, or basketball—and in no time you'll have a sporty Halloween costume. You can add an accessory like a helmet or a hockey puck, a swipe of festive face paint, and then get out the door. Candy's waiting!
Wait until you see the “Peter Pan” family costume!
If you start now, it’s easy to coordinate an awesome family Halloween costume that will earn you tons of compliments from fellow trick-or-treaters. From Scooby-Do-themed get-ups to Star Wars family costumes, there are plenty of great ways to dress up your brood this year. For parents who prefer to be a bit more behind-the-scenes, we’ve also got the most popular Halloween costumes for kids in 2022, baby Halloween costumes you can DIY with a onesie, and cardboard box Halloween costumes (because what else were you going to do with those Amazon boxes?)
If there’s anything we can agree on, it’s that going to the movies hits differently when snacks are involved. This fun family costume takes everyone’s favorite movie theater snacks to the next level.
Good as gold! We give the green light to the striped stockings and big green hats that make these lucky little ones ready for trick-or-treating. Create a rainbow and add gold coins to a shirt, and you’ve got an adorable leprechaun family Halloween costume idea.
We love DIY costumes and give a wave of approval for this adorable shark family. You and your herd of fish will be sure to see grins on fellow trick-or-treaters.
The search is over! We spotted this ultra-coordinated family costume over at Say Yes. It's easy to pull together from items likely already in your closet.
We're clapping our hands for these whimsical costumes featuring Peter Pan and his Lost Boys. Grab a little pixie dust and fly over to A Beautiful Mess for a closer look at the costumes. It's easy to re-create if you just believe! You can even make your pixie dust by clicking here.
How cute is this Wreck-It-Ralph group costume idea? We love how a lot of these costumes might be laying around your house. Head over to See Vanessa Craft for the tutorials for each costume.
Fulfill all your Goblin King dreams with this awesome family costume. Sarah, Jareth, and baby Toby complete this perfect trio of a costume. Find out how it's done over at Brit + Co.
Few things say Halloween more than Creatures of the Night. You'll find all the how-tos and close-ups of the spooktacular makeup at Tell Love and Party featuring Frankenstein, his bride, a mini mummy, and a baby bat.
The family behind Chris Loves Julia took this awesome film-themed photo for the invitation to their annual costume bash. A flashback to a favorite childhood movie, the kids may not be familiar with The Sandlot, but they'll love the fun summery costumes.
More than 7 million Baby Shark bath toys have been recalled due to risk of puncture wounds and impalement. Here’s what parents need to know
The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission is recalling more than 7 million Baby Shark bath toys. Zuru, the company that makes the toys, is participating in the recall and offering full refunds for affected toys: Robo Alive Junior Baby Shark Sing & Swim Bath Toys (full-size) and Robo Alive Junior Mini Baby Shark Swimming Bath Toys (mini-size).
“When using the recalled bath toys, particularly in a bathtub or wading pool, a child can slip and fall or sit onto the hard plastic top fin of the shark, posing risks of impalement, lacerations and punctures,” CPSC said in a press release. The agency added that there have been at least 12 reported incidents of kids “falling or sitting onto the recalled full-size Baby Shark bath toy, resulting in impalement injuries, lacerations and puncture wounds, including to children’s genital, anorectal and facial areas. Nine of the incidents required stitches or medical attention.”
The toys, which are based on the popular kids’ song “Baby Shark,” come in yellow, pink, and blue, and were sold individually and in packs of two or three, from May 2019 through March 2023. They cost between $13 and $15 for the full-sized toys, and between $6 and $20 for the mini toys.
CPSC says anyone with these toys should stop using them immediately. You can also contact Zuru for a refund of the purchase price by following these steps:
Disable the tail fin (by cutting it on the full-size bath toy or by bending it on the mini-size bath toy).
Mark the body of the shark bath toy with the word ‘recalled’ and the unique code provided during registration for the recall.
From drawing lessons to DIY science experiments, the popular streaming platform is filled with amazing (and appropriate) content
Sometimes YouTube gets a bad rap. Sure, there are countless videos of kids unboxing toys and grown men narrating Minecraft—but there’s also tons of educational content to keep your kids entertained and learning. From step-by-step drawing lessons to DIY science experiments, YouTube is teeming with amazing content you’ll feel good about sharing with your littles. Here are our recommendations for the best YouTube channels for kids.*
*If you feel safer putting your kid on the more kid-filtered YouTube Kids, you can find select episodes of much of the below content via the YouTube Kids search bar.
Science & Nature YouTube Channels for Kids
Smithsonian - While the Smithsonian does have a paid portion of its channel, there is still a plethora of free videos to peruse on its Youtube Channel—everything from documentary-style videos with real, historic footage of big events throughout history to a series on orangutan conservation that will make your little a full-on expert on apes.
National Geographic - You'll find a sprawling library of Nat Geo videos, from Brain Games to Planet Earth. Parents will need to sleuth the channel to find the videos most appropriate for their kids' needs, but there are so many quality choices Mom and Dad may want to come back and browse for themselves.
Bill Nye The Science Guy - The quirky scientist has a myriad of easy-to-understand segments on a variety of complex scientific concepts including static electricity, chemical reactions, and evolution. Kids will love Nye's goofy demeanor; parents will love that he explains things just right for young scientists.
Cincinnati Zoo - This zoo recently made it its mission to offer "Home Safaris" for homeschooled kids. The 45-minute virtual field trips give viewers an inside look at the zoo's various residents with the help of a keeper, who teaches a full-on lesson (Psst: Our favorite is this one-on-one with the hippos.).
San Diego Zoo - Watch a giant tortoise munch down a watermelon; see a baby gorilla's tiny face up close; watch polar bears play in the snow. There's a reason the San Diego Zoo is known worldwide—and its Youtube channel gives viewers an inside peek into the action.
Sick Science - Steve Spangler hosts this fun channel that gives kids great ideas for DIY experiments. Kids can make a "sugar kaleidoscope," make geodes inside an eggshell, and make an instrument out of a straw.
Mystery Doug - Big concepts, small concepts—it's all here. Mystery Doug puts sciences into words and visuals that kids can understand. Each video is about five minutes long, and Doug (a former school teacher) makes it easy for kids to grasp questions like, "How do germs get inside our bodies?" or "Why do we get goosebumps?" To subscribe, go to his website (it's free!). Some videos also have easy-to-do activities or experiments that go with them.
Doctor Mad Science - This channel is full of easy-to-understand videos of simple-to-perform science experiments. Got milk, Q-tips, and soap? You've got one experiment covered! A grape and a microwave? You won't believe what happens (and make sure you supervise!). The channel is hosted by a young autistic boy, who narrates and does all the experiments himself.
Art For Kids Hub - We love watching artist Rob—and his adorable family—making art together. Rob gives easy, step-by-step instructions that will have even the smallest kiddos making art in just minutes. With popular kid subjects like Pokemon, Star Wars, Frozen, and Fortnite (as well as a slew of other things that are just plain cute), the videos make drawing super-easy and fun.
Disney Parks Drawing Tutorials - Learn how to draw your favorite Disney characters (Note: The link takes you to the Disney Parks channel, and you have to scroll to find the characters you want to draw.).
EasyPicturesToDraw - For more reluctant artists, these step-by-step tutorials make it super-easy to draw simple characters.
Red Ted Art - Easy-to-do art projects that are suitable even for young (3+) children. Kids and parents can create everything from cardboard roll projects to pop-up cards and bath bombs.
Babble Dabble Do - Part art, part science, this channel teaches kids how to make a variety of things, from paper lanterns and rubber eggs to wizard's brew, rubber eggs, and DIY toys (we love this super-easy instructional on how to make a "rubber" egg). Some of these are a bit complicated, so most require parental supervision to keep kids on track.
KidsActivitiesBlog - You'll find simple art projects using household items. There's a slew of toilet paper roll projects, as well as things like paper plate crowns, sidewalk chalk paint, and gak bubbles.
Inner Child Fun - Kids can learn how to make a duct tape wallet, a paper fortune teller, tissue paper flowers, a foolproof paper airplane, and more.
Muffalo Potato - Kids learn to draw using the shapes of numbers and letters.
Art with Mati & Dada - Animated shorts (each is around eight minutes long) that make it easy for kids to learn about specific artists, from Van Gogh and Leonardo da Vinci to Jackson Pollock and Kandinsky.
Smart Girls - Saturday Night Live's Amy Poehler co-founded Smart Girls to help young people "cultivate their authentic selves"—and its YouTube channel highlights a variety of topics, from "Making Math Fun" to profiles of famous women in history. It's best for tweens to teens.
TED-Ed - Short videos on interesting topics, from "A Day in the Life" videos about various people in history ("A day in the life of an ancient Egyptian doctor," for instance) to brainy riddles for kids to solve.
TinkerLab - An online maker space where kids can learn how to create a variety of things from basic and repurposed materials—from cloud dough and paperclip bracelets to chain reaction ideas and stop-motion animation instruction.
Soul Pancake - Older kids and tweens can explore the world—and learn how to change it—via these inspiring videos.
It's OK to Be Smart - Joe Hanson, Ph.D. helps answer fun questions like, "Humans are smart. Why are babies so unsmart?" and "How to drink coffee in space."
YouTube Channels Perfect for Kids Who Like to Cook
Nerdy Nummies Cooking - Kids will learn how to make a variety of cakes, cupcakes, and sandwiches—often shaped or themed on pop culture favorites (make Star Wars' blue milk or Harley Quinn's famous cheese sandwich.).
The Bow Girls - Two adorable sisters teach kids how to make fun things like ice cream cupcakes, blueberry muffins in a mug, and green eggs and ham.
Miniature Space - Want to see giant on-screen hands making a hamburger fit for a mouse? Kids aren't necessarily going to recreate these edible items at home, but watching these tiny foods being made is fascinating for all! Even the plates and frying pans are dollhouse-sized... and yet it all works and cooks like real (human-sized) things.
Cosmic Kids Yoga - A yoga and mindfulness program designed for kids 3 and up, yogi Jaime makes yoga poses fun for kids by turning them into stories and using some of the kids' favorite pop culture themes to grab their attention (there's a Minecraft yoga story, for instance, that asks kids to use various poses to "survive" the Minecraft world).
Go Noodle - Short videos (they're all under five minutes) to get kids moving, these videos make perfect "brain breaks" during the day. Kids can hop on and learn Fortnite dances, pop bubbles on screen, or hop and jump with Sonic the Hedgehog.
Just Dance Kids - You don't need a video game console to let your kids follow the Just Dance moves. Just type "Just Dance Kids" into the YouTube search menu, and you'll get a plethora of videos that'll make kids feel like they're playing the game (and younger kiddos don't even know the difference).
YouTube Channels for Toddlers/Preschoolers
The Snack Town All-Stars - Join in on the fun with Banana, Apple, Orange, and, Grape. These animated healthy snacks sing fun songs about eating good foods and there are even soothing lullabies for naptime.
Songs for Littles - Ms. Rachel is sacred to a toddler or preschool parent. If you haven't heard of her yet, we recommend you get on it.
Super Simple Songs - Toddlers will be mesmerized watching these colorful videos featuring simple songs like "Twinkle Twinkle" and "Five Little Ducks." Need a few minutes to decompress? Plop your tot in front of this for a bit, and you'll both be happy.
KidsTV123 - Toddlers and preschoolers can learn basics like letters, shapes, and colors with these short musical videos.
Sesame Street - Kids can dance, sing and learn with all their favorite Sesame Street friends.
Pinkfong - It's the YouTube channel that hatched the infamous Baby Shark—and tons of other cute song videos your toddler will love.
WordWorld - Full episodes of the popular PBS show that helps kids learn how to build and recognize letters and words.
OK GO - This LA-based rock band makes music videos that look more like YouTube stunts than songs. The band does all kinds of cool stunts set to their music, from singing and dancing in zero gravity to a dance routine done on treadmills. Kids will be too enthralled to dance, but that's OK—so will you.
Dude Perfect - What started as four friends recording trick shots in their backyard basketball court has become a multimillion operation—and one of the most popular sports channels on YouTube (they have 50 million subscribers!). The friends do all kinds of fun record-breaking stunts, including "the world's longest basketball shot made with your head," and "the world's highest basketball shot (which was thrown from the top of a skyscraper).
Storyline Online - Celebrities read aloud from their favorite storybooks, which are then given some simple animation to bring the stories to life.
It’s a job that requires unending patience and fortitude
When it comes to being a stay-at-home parent, there are always those (the former co-worker, the couple next door who doesn’t have kids, your own mom) who might see it more like a glamorous lifestyle and less the real-life mess that it can oftentimes be. In truth, it’s a job that requires unending patience and fortitude, and35% of you are choosing to do it. In honor of the crumbs and carpool lines, we came up with a few words of encouragement for stay-at-home moms everywhere.
It’s okay to be exhausted, and admit that you’re exhausted.
Being a stay-at-home mom isn’t a walk in the park; in fact, there are a lot of things you just don’t know until you know. Chasing a toddler, walking the dog, cooking the meals, folding the hundredth towel for the hundredth time, being a positive influence, and doing it all with a smile—it’s exhausting! This isn’t the kind of job that lets you sit down often, and sometimes, at the end of the day, it’s all you can do to keep your eyes open. You know what? That’s okay. You are a superhero to your family, but IRL, you’re only human. It’s time you learn to be okay with admitting that you’re tired. And what goes along with admitting you’re exhausted? Making yourself rest. So put those feet up now and then, and let your partner put the kids to bed, or let that lovely person who delivers the takeout from your favorite restaurant bring dinner tonight. You’re allowed to be tired, but only if you promise to rest.
You’re still allowed to have things that are just for you.
Sharing is one of the first things we are taught as children, and it’s probably something you try to instill in your own as well. Share the blocks, share the popcorn, share the backseat. With all that ‘share’ mentality you’re putting out there for your kids, it’s easy to forget that some things can be just for you. Many two-year-olds’ favorite word is “mine,” and while it can be excessive, there’s nothing wrong with letting a few things be “mine” when it comes to yourself. Maybe it’s a Substack that you write, or a dream of one day opening a bakery, or Workin’ Moms that you binge-watch at night when the kids are in bed. You’re still an individual, and it’s okay to have things just for you.
You’re priceless (and should make $180,000 a year).
There’s nothing more frustrating/annoying/rage-inducing than a partner that believes that “they make the money” that supports the family or that a stay-at-home parent’s monetary value isn’t as contributory to the family. On the contrary, a recent study found that given everything that a stay-at-home parent does, their annual salary would be $184,820. Imagine paying for a nanny, coach, housekeeper, groundskeeper, dog walker/pet sitter, interior designer, laundry manager, plumber, photographer, tailor, nutritionist/chef, accountant, art director… the list goes on and on. And, put on top of that someone that provides romantic company? You get the idea. Your value is immeasurable, so never doubt for a second how much you truly contribute to your family.
It’s okay to fantasize about your life before kids.
Staying out until two, enjoying long, leisurely brunches, going on last-minute getaways, having a clean car, flying with just a carry-on, having extra money, sleeping until you wake up, riding in the car with the windows down listening to anything but Baby Shark on repeat… these are all things we temporarily kiss goodbye when we have kids. Those good old days when life was just about what we wanted are over. But that doesn’t mean you can’t think about them while you’re washing spit-up out of your hair for the fifth time or picking cereal out from in between the seats of the car. You had a different kind of life before the kids arrived, and there’s no shame in reminiscing about those times.
You’re allowed to love your life just exactly as it is.
iStock
Doesn’t it always seem that when people are unhappy, they want you to be unhappy too? It’s like people want you to feel bad about not feeling bad. Well, brush off those haters. There’s nothing like being a parent, and there’s nothing wrong with liking your life exactly as it is. Nothing cuter to you than matching up teeny, tiny little socks? Embrace it! Love being there to pick them up from school and hear about every moment of their day at school? Savor it. It’s true what they say about time moving quickly, and this is the only time in your life when you’ll get to have these special times with your kids. So slow down and appreciate your lifestyle. There’s nothing wrong with loving it exactly as it is.
A little screen time isn’t going to kill them.
When was the last time you used the bathroom by yourself? Or read something that wasn’t on the back of a cereal box? Or had an adult conversation with your partner that wasn’t interrupted by a chorus of “I’m hungry” from the peanut gallery? Sometimes you need a moment to yourself, and there’s nothing wrong with letting your kids indulge in a distractive activity while you do so. So pull up their favorite TV shows or put on a movie just for them, and don’t feel guilty for a moment.
It’s okay to take a break.
Do you know how the flight attendants on the plane remind you to put on your oxygen mask before assisting others? This is a simple concept—if you can’t breathe, you can’t help anyone else. The same goes for your everyday life—if you haven’t taken a moment to take care of yourself, how can you take care of anyone else? Take a break, and add a little self-care to your day. Sign up for a weekly yoga or spin class, plan a lunch out with a good friend, or heck, just walk around the grocery store by yourself for a change. There’s nothing wrong with asking for help from Grandma or Grandpa, hiring a sitter, or looking into Mom’s Day Out programs so you can take a moment for yourself. You’ve earned it, and it’s more important than you think.
You don’t have to be supermom.
You food-prepped for the week with only organic goodies, great job! Everything is labeled and stocked in the fridge… but you hit the drive-thru on the way home from school because you Just. Can’t. With dinner tonight. Guess what? There’s no shame in your game. Some stay-at-home parents plan art projects with all the bells and whistles, some come up with ideas on the fly, and some don’t do it all. Stop comparing yourself to others. The kids will be happy either way. You don’t have to be a supermom, just a mom or dad who’s there for your kids.
Even if they forget to say it, they do love and appreciate you.
If you’re an employee of a big company and you have a great year, you might receive a nice bonus payment. If you’re a fundraiser and you throw a big event that raises lots of money for your charity, you might receive a big pat on the back. If you’re a chef and you create a wonderful meal, the patrons may leave a glowing review that you can proudly read. But moms rarely get any accolades or words of encouragement for the jobs that they are doing. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if Mother’s Day or Father’s Day came every month to remind you that you are valued and appreciated and that everyone is truly grateful for your help/time/patience/love? Well, even if they forget to say it, your family does love and appreciate you. Try to remember that.
We feel you.
Sure, sometimes it feels like stay-at-home-mom survival, just making it from naptime to bedtime, but know this: we feel you. There are moms everywhere that are going through what you’re going through, the good and the bad. The smiles and the meltdowns, the poop diapers and the PTA meetings, the carpool lines and the after-school snacks, and the hugs and the bedtime stories. Hang in there, you’re doing an amazing job!
The days you’ve spent dreaming of taking a family vacation are here—and the time to do it is now. While you may have put off a getaway with your entire clan, there’s no better moment than the present to enjoy one-on-one time with those who matter most.
Traveling with children of any age can be challenging, but there are tricks to get the job done and keep everyone happy throughout the journey. To help rid yourself of worry and lessen the number of hiccups along the way, we’ve compiled Marriott Bonvoy’s go-to tricks that’ll help moms and dads go on any trip with ease.
1. Find a destination that will keep the entire family happy
What constitutes a vacation means something different for everyone. Some prefer to sit back and relax on the beach, while others thrive off outdoorsy adventures that challenge them. Once you add children to the mix, these preferences change even more.
To help you decide which destination is right for your family, ask yourself what your goal is on this getaway. Are you looking to wind down? South Florida may be calling your name. Do you want to explore historical monuments and cultural experiences with your kiddos? A trip to Washington D.C. may be on your horizon. Perhaps you’re looking to tackle a new activity, like hiking in a state park, where Minneapolis may be the name of your game.
2. Don’t wait until the last minute to book your trip
Once you’ve made up your mind of where your family will be vacationing, it’s time to start coordinating your flight, especially if you plan to travel out of the state and want to avoid a road trip at all costs. Travel booking app Hopper recommends booking domestic flights one two months in advance and to avoid waiting until three to four weeks before your departure, as airfares typically spike by then. For holiday travel, a good rule of thumb is to snag your seat three to four months out.
As for lodging, most hotels, such as Marriott Bonvoy, allow almost a years’ worth of lead time to reserve a room. Fortunately, you don’t need that much time, at least according to Hopper. The sweet spot for guaranteeing your space is three to four months ahead of your trip.
3. Redeem your hotel points for awesome perks
We have good news. If you’re a member of the free Marriott Bonvoy program and have traveled since signing up, you’ve already racked up points. The best part is, you can turn your accrual into paradise—a.k.a. get a free night at any one of Marriott’s nationwide properties, including Chicago, Myrtle Beach, Los Angeles, Atlanta, or Charlotte, to name a few.
Depending on which tier you’ve reached, you can receive even more benefits, from mobile check-ins, late checkouts and free breakfasts to extra rewards points, enhanced free Wi-Fi, and guaranteed room types. Did we mention that your current vacation counts toward future travel plans, earning you points as well?
4. Pack items that’ll keep kids entertained
Whether you’re taking a two-hour flight or have a five-hour road trip mapped out, always have toys, interactive books or a tablet on hand. It’ll keep your children in good spirits and hopefully cut down on the number of times they’ll ask, “Are we there yet?”
To not disturb your peace (and those around you), bring kid-friendly headphones so you can limit the number of times you hear Baby Shark in one sitting.
5. Snacks, snacks, and more snacks
A hangry kiddo is a kiddo to not handle lightly, as they’ll change the tune of your getaway within seconds. Pack a travel bag that’s loaded with low-sugar snacks to keep your little ones’ hunger at bay. We’re talking cheese crackers, granola bars, trail mix, hard pretzel bites, animal crackers, dry cereal, popcorn, fruits, you name it.
Not only are these treats easy to open and (sort of, almost) mess-free, but they’re also convenient when anyone in your group is in need of a pick-me-up.
6. Surprise your little ones with a special gift
For children, nothing beats surprises they can unwrap. Buy them an inexpensive goodie that will keep their attention for hours at hand and keep the feel-good emotions going.
Our favorite travel companion that’s certain to wow your kiddos is an LCD writing tablet. Imaginative minds can sketch as many drawings as they’d like, then once they’re ready to create a new masterpiece, they can erase it and start fresh. Thanks to the tablet’s attached stylus, you can also avoid the need for crayons that’ll end up dropped or lost in no time.
7. Remember to pack light but keep essentials on hand
We know it’s easier said than done, but packing what’s absolutely needed will make for less stress in the end. Also, over-packed suitcases are heavy and inconvenient to lug around, along with your children. Just think about the last time you took a trip and how much of the clothes and shoes you packed you actually used.
Since accidents are almost inevitable with little ones, like spilled juice and a scratched knee, have a list of essentials with you at all times. We advise keeping some items handy, such as a first aid kit, disinfectant wipes, a plastic bag for trash, reusable water bottle, pull-ups and basic, over-the-counter medication for motion sickness, headaches and upset stomachs.
8. Plan travel and events around naps
If you have infants or toddlers, you know all too well the importance of nap time. When traveling, think of it as your secret weapon for a smooth and seamless commute. With an afternoon flight, it’s likely your tots will have started to wind down from all the excitement and are going to want to get some shut-eye.
On the other hand with a road trip, leaving very early in the morning or late at night can help keep them resting peacefully since you’re sticking to their typical, at-home sleep schedule. Similarly, with any activities and events, make sure you book them before or after their nap, so they remain in a good mood and are ready to take on the next adventure.
9. Carve out extra travel time for the unpredictable
Sometimes life just happens and you can’t predict when a random rush hour will hit or when there are flight delays. It’s best to leave yourself wiggle room no matter if you’re commuting on land or in the air.
Allow ample time to get through the airport security, which can feel chaotic with kids in tow, might we add. If you’re bringing breast milk or baby food for the trip, keep in mind that security will stop to test them before you can make your way to your flight gate. On the flip side, map out rest stops along the way when driving long distances. It’s important to give everyone time for restroom breaks and to stretch out their legs.
10. Always create a plan B for your itinerary
While it would be wonderful if we could control Mother Nature every now and then, it’s a possibility that the weather can damper your plans. Have a backup list of indoor activities for rainy days, so you can keep the day moving without any hiccups.
Look to museums, adventure parks, amusement centers and arcades that the whole family will enjoy. Don’t skip over themed restaurants that are kid-friendly and feature fun characters or options that offer both a dinner and a show.
With over 7,000 hotels worldwide, Marriott Bonvoy offers a variety of options to meet your family’s needs. Once you reserve your stay, you can focus on the most important part of your getaway: making memories your children will take with them for years to come.
We’ve all been there: we’ve turned on the radio to the perfect family-friendly song, but before long, we’re overhearing some questionable lyrics faster than we can say, “Alexa, stop!” That’s why savvy parents stick to age-appropriate playlists. No time in your schedule of fussy baby feedings and never-ending toddler nap routines to prep a mix tape? Fear not—the hard work has been done for you. Spotify has countless collections of songs, from nursery rhymes and lullabies to modern classics that even the most Baby Shark-averse adult will enjoy. All you have to do is cue up one of these parent-approved Spotify playlists for kids and enjoy the free concert.
Let’s face it—there’s a wide range of kid songs out there, and what constitutes a bop to one parent may sound like nails on a chalkboard to another. Thankfully, this list of 60 songs weeds out the polarizing “hits” and is curated to include more universally appealing classic and contemporary songs alike.
One thing that the Disney vault can’t contain? The catchy soundtracks from its archive of animated movies. This 160+ song playlist has everything from the latest Encanto ear worms to ballads that will take any millennial parent back to their own Disney-movie-watching childhood.
If you’ve ever cried at an Instagram Reel of a newborn baby you don’t actually know, it’s likely because it was set to one of the sweet songs in this calming baby playlist. From Taylor Swift’s “Never Grow Up” to Jack Johnson’s “Better Together,” these simple melodies will warm your heart.
Sure, the “Mozart Effect”—the belief that babies exposed to classical music will have higher IQs—has never been scientifically supported, but it still feels good to switch off the Baby Shark in lieu of some Flight of the Bumblebee now and then, right?
Hitting the road? Get ready to sing your hearts out with these family-friendly road trip classics that will make the miles fly by. Bonus: this mix of 80 songs will get you five hours of driving time before you even have to think about what to play next.
Who runs the world? Girls! And if you’ve got such a little one running your house, this empowering playlist—composed of all-female artists, from Oliva Rodrigo to Aretha Franklin and Billie Eilish to Mariah Carey—will serve up plenty of girl pride.
Nevermind Madonna, Cher, or Adele. The mononymous singer on rotation in any house with babies and toddlers is Raffi. For millions of fans spanning 40 years, the Armenian singer’s music—”Baby Beluga” or “Down By the Bay,” anyone?—has been the soundtrack of their childhoods.
Sometimes waking up after naptime, or doing tummy time, or eating broccoli can feel like such a slog. Why not add some musical motivation to your little one’s routine? This playlist of upbeat tunes is sure to add some pep in their first steps. Seriously. Have you heard the first few seconds of Justin Timberlake’s “Can’t Stop This Feeling,” and been able to stop feeling better? Thought not.
Winter weather got you down? Rain in the forecast? Let the lyrics to these springtime songs brighten the most dreary of days. From “Let’s Go Fly a Kite” to a medley of sunshiny hits—there’s “You Are My Sunshine” and “Here Comes the Sun,” to name a few—this playlist will give your family everything but the Vitamin D.
They say to never wake a sleeping baby, but it takes just one extra-loud song in a seemingly steady playlist of lullabies to startle a newborn out of a REM cycle. This collection of soothing songs, however, promises nine hours’ worth of lyric-free instrumentals to keep your little one conked out.
Tired of the Top 40? This quirky mix of underrated kid songs will pique parents’ interests just as much as their target demo. From Snoop Dogg rapping examples of positive mantras in “Affirmation Song” to a stream-of-consciousness melody about donkey-shaped piñatas and cupcakes at “Goin’ To a Birthday,” these songs are deep cuts with deeper meanings than the standard nursery rhyme fare.
Guitar lovers, get excited! This playlist features 160 sweet instrumental lullabies that are all performed exclusively on the popular instrument. Trust us, the riffs in ”This Old Man,” “London Bridge,” and “Do Re Mi” just hit differently on the strings of an acoustic guitar.
Sometimes, it takes more than a good beat to inspire your kids to get up and dance. If you want to burn some energy, this playlist includes classic sing-alongs like “The Wheels on the Bus” and instructional ditties, like “Reach Up High,” which will have even the youngest of children following along with every line.
Your little ones might not know the Backstreet Boys or Britney yet, but it’s never too early to give them a proper musical education on all things pop. Curated by Spotify, it’s part of a series of “Raised on . . .” playlists meant for parents and children alike, and it includes lineups dedicated to Rock, Punk, Country, Hip Hop, and Metal, among others.
Donuts aren’t just for breakfast anymore. It’s true. While you can still find the classics just about everywhere, your kids’ favorite morning sweet treat has been spotted going gourmet with unique flavors, crazy toppings, and wild shapes (our apologies to the circle). From Cajun-inspired concoctions to creations you have to see to believe, check out our list of the best places in the metroplex to indulge.
Welcome to the best donut shop in Dallas. From their house-made glazes to one-of-a-kind toppings, this is a must on your list of “donut shops to try before I die.” We’re drooling over menu items like the “Peace-stachio,” the “Breaking Bad,” and (of course) the “Homer.” Did we mention they also serve chicken and biscuits? Be still, our hearts.
Heart-shaped donuts for Mother’s Day? Snowflake donuts for the holidays? Funnel cake donuts? Yes, please. This artisan donut shop is bound to have a flavor, shape, and theme for any moment you get a craving.
We need to be honest. Some of the best donuts in Dallas can be found at this spot, and they look more like cakes than breakfast food. And with names like the Horchata Donut, the Key Lime Meringue Pie Donut, and the Carmel Toffee Crumb, we see no reason why you shouldn’t have one for dessert. Plus, they’ve got cold brew growlers to go, and for you donut junkies out there, be sure to sign up for their rewards program.
Park Place Donuts
Here’s where you’ll find crazy character donuts like Minions, Hello Kitty, and Baby Shark, alongside Nutella Oreo donuts, Fruity Pebble donuts, and Strawberry Cream Cheese donuts. Don’t worry! You’ll find all your go-to flavors here too.
This fun shop is in historic Sundance Square in downtown Fort Worth. Not only do they serve a monthly rotating menu of donuts like Root Beer Float, Hibiscus Lime, and Strawberry Shortcake, but they’ve got beer and wine for purchase too, which means you can stop here later in the day (open until 3 pm Sun-Thurs, and 10 pm Fri. & Sat!) and everyone in your crew can enjoy happy hour.
One of the best places in Garland to get a fix for your sweet tooth, this family-owned shop brought their favorite recipes from Louisiana and has been serving donuts, kolaches, breakfast sandwiches, boudin, and beignets since 2013.
The menu at Detour changes every month, and the options are totally different. Think Thai Tea & Coconut, Blueberry Goat Cheese, Tiramisu, Lemon & Earl Gray and much more. And don’t worry, donut traditionalists, there’s a menu of classic options like glazed, chocolate, old-fashioned, apple fritters, and the ever-popular donut holes.
