Batter up, bakers! These holiday baking tools are the must-haves of the season.

It’s that time of year! Sure, it’s always a good time for cookies, but there’s something extra-special about holiday baking. And extra-special treats call for extra-special tools. We’ve got the inside scoop on all the tools of the holiday baking trade, along with a few you might not even know about (that’s why we’re here!). We’ve got the goods for making holiday goodies your family and friends will be asking for until New Year’s Day (and beyond!).

Holiday baking doesn’t have to be a chore or a “have-to-do”! It’s one of the best excuses of the season to gather your favorite people together and create, or tell Alexa to turn up the Christmas tunes and spend an afternoon self-caring your way to a cookie wonderland solo. Baking is also ideal for gift-giving, tradition-creating, and cookie exchanging. Holiday baking is one of our absolute favorite parts of the season, and these are our favorite baking tools!

GIR Baker's Bundle

The GIR spatula is iconic, and it pretty much tells you how awesome their other products are. This Baker's Bundle has everything you need for cupcakes, pastries, and more!

GIR Baker's Bundle ($59.00), GIR.co—Buy Now

OXO Cookie Scoop

If you haven't jumped on the cookie scoop train, now is the time! Scoops keep you hands out of the dough (unless you want them in it!) and make your cookies uniform and easy to drop!

OXO Cookie Scoop ($16.99), Target—Buy Now

Christmas Cupcake Liners

When you're baking for gifts, the details make a big impact. These are sweet little cupcake liners that add an extra sprinkle of cheer!

Christmas Cupcake Liners ($11.99), Target—Buy Now

Holiday Cooking & Baking Sheet Set

A cute mini set to build your baking basics, including a half-sheet baking pan, classic cookie cutters, and silicon baking mat!

Holiday Cooking & Baking Sheet Set ($32.99), Target—Buy Now

Christmas Cookie Cutter Cube

Six shapes in one cookie cube, this handy tool takes the "cutter" out of creating cookie shapes. It's great for little hands, too!

Christmas Cookie Cutter Cube ($8.95), Target—Buy Now

Window Shaker Cookie Kit

You've probably seen window shaker cookies on Instagram or baking shows—three sugar cookies infused with a pair of melted candy windows holding sprinkles that shake around inside. They're so impressive and definitely festive, and this kit comes with all the supplies you need to go viral, yourself!

Window Shaker Cookie Kit ($24.99), Uncommon Goods—Buy Now

Christmas Cookie Coloring Tablecloth

Even if your littles haven't baked a cookie yet, they can get into the spirit of baking with this washable Christmas cookie-themed tablecloth! It comes with markers and can be washed over and over so the fun never ends.

Christmas Cookie Coloring Tablecloth ($30.00), Uncommon Goods—Buy Now

"Baking Spirits Bright" Personalized Apron

This darling apron comes in both an adult version and one for you little one and can be personalized with any name! Make it a family affair, or give them as a gift. Or both! Tis the season, right?

"Baking Spirits Bright" Personalized Apron ($21.99-$29.99), Personalization Mall—Buy Now

Christmas Tree Family Cookie Jar

You've gotta have somewhere to stash your creations, and this family cookie jar is the perfect place! Add up to eight names and your family will love it for years to come.

Christmas Tree Family Cookie Jar ($52.99), Personalization Mall—Buy Now

"Made With Love" Self-Inking Personalizaed Stamped

Putting your signature on your bakes is a must, and this personalized self-inking stamp lets you do it fast!

"Made With Love" Self-Inking Personalized Stamp ($24.99), Personalization Mall—Buy Now

Christmas Mug Cookie Cutters

These cutters allow you to bake up mug-hugging cookie that sit on the rim of a mug of coffee, tea, cider, or cocoa!

Christmas Mug Cookie Cutters ($16.00), Uncommon Goods—Buy Now

12 Days of Cookies Holiday Scratch-Off Recipes

Surprise cookies! Each scratch-off reveals a QR code that links to a recipe download, complete with holiday music. Text versions are available on the website, and blank recipe cards are included for your own baker's notes!

12 Days of Cookies Holiday Scratch-Off Recipes ($25.00), Uncommon Goods—Buy Now

Mini Pie Maker Dough-Presser Molds

Why are mini pies even more fun than a regular pie? These little dough-presser molds let you create holiday hand pies that are a hit at parties, bake sales, and as gifts!

Mini Pie Maker Dough-Presser Molds ($17.99), Amazon—Buy Now

Holiday Cookie Gift Boxes

Save yourself some gift-wrapping time with this set of festive gift boxes!

Holiday Cookie Gift Boxes ($19.99), Amazon—Buy Now

Christmas Baking Crew Tees

The family that bakes together...well, we can't find the perfect rhyme, but everyone should have a family baking tee! Personalized with your choice of six sayings, you'll have an adorable photo op and snacks!

Christmas Baking Crew Tees ($22.50), Etsy—Buy Now

PS: (Pretty Sprinkles)

Edible Glitter—Ruby Red, Diamond White, Emerald Green

Edible Glitter—Ruby Red, Diamond White, Emerald Green ($40.00), Amazon—Buy Now

Under the Mistletoe Sprinkles

Under the Mistletoe Sprinkles ($14.99), Amazon

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.

All images courtesy of retailers.

From cooking classes to kitchen necessities, Sur La Table is making this season delicious with the best food gifts out there

Loving food and loving Sur La Table go hand-in-hand. After all, for 50 years, Sur La Table has revolutionized how home cooks have stocked their kitchens and has pretty much set the industry’s standard (they were the first West Coast retailer to carry that kitchen staple, the Cuisinart Food Processor, in 1974! They’ve known what’s up for a while.). We head to Sur La Table first thing when we’re on the hunt for kitchen goodies and the best cooking gifts, and with the holidays coming, who isn’t? And now, we’re not only able to prepare our kitchens for the season; we can show off our new tasty talents with Sur La Table cooking classes!

Our shopping list for the Sur La Table sale is right here, along with the classes we’re signing up for to impress our guests this holiday season. We’re talking the best cooking gifts, supplies, and the perfect way to learn everything we’ve ever wanted to know about creating fantastic food. It also doesn’t hurt that they’re featuring sales up to 60% off, so you know it’s a great time to get your holiday shopping started (and possibly done?)! Maybe our Love Language is cooking…or eating. Yeah, it’s probably eating.

Online Freeze & Bake Appetizers Class

Our Thanksgiving is about to get even tastier (and arguably easier) thanks to this one! Learn to create Baked Brie en Croute with Apricot Jam, Honey Mustard-Prosciutto Palmier, and Italian Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms (no, seriously. You'll be able to make this stuff.). All three of these dishes freeze beautifully for make-ahead prep, and each one also has an easy vegetarian option. You really can please everyone this year!

Sur La Table Online Freeze & Bake Appetizers Class ($29) Here

Online Salted Caramel Lattice-Top Apple Pie Class

Lattice-top pie birdseye view

They had us at "salted caramel". Get ready to have the place of honor on the dessert table with this gorgeous lattice-top pie! This class teaches both pie crust technique as well as how to create the filling and lattice work. Honestly, you might want to go ahead and make more than one after you've perfected it. The chances of ever having leftovers are almost non-existent.

Sur La Table Online Salted Caramel Lattice-Top Apple Pie Class ($29) Here

Online Prep Now, Eat Later: Homemade Lasagna Class

Combine the holiday season with your everyday schedule and you have a time balancing act. We know you can do it, but we're also all for making it easier. Enter this saves-the-day weeknight dinner class! Homemade lasagna, made from scratch, that tastes just like home and is perfect for chilly weather that you can make now and pop in the fridge to be baked later. Crafted from parmesan Bechamel, homemade lasagna noodles, and Italian sausage or mushroom red sauce, it's love on a plate after a busy day!

Online Prep Now, Eat Later: Homemade Lasagna Class ($29) Here

In-Store Holiday Cookie Decorating Class

Christmas cookies

Are you more of an in-person learner? Looking for some family time? Sur La Table's got you. Their in-store class offerings include the Holiday Cookie Decorating Class, an all-ages class that teaches sugar cookie and gingerbread cookie decorating (plus, you get the recipes!). Head over to the link to select your location and find class times that are closest to you!

In-Store Holiday Cookie Decorating Class ($69-$89) Here

In-Store Festive Bread Workshop

A plate of snowflake shaped holiday bread

If you've always wanted to be the house that smells like freshly-baked bread over the holidays, you knead to check out this workshop! Raspberry Snowflake Pull-Apart Wreath and Chocolate Hazelnut Babka are both covered, and this two-hour class gives you the skills to recreate them at home!

In-Store Festive Bread Workshop ($89) Here

Sur La Table Harvest Appetizer Plates—Set of 4

Set of four appetizer plates

If you're creating all that fantastic food, you'll want a fun place to put it, right? These appetizer plates from Sur La Table are Thanksgiving-ready, dishwasher-safe, and beautiful, of course! We suggest grabbing two or more sets depending on the number of guests you're expecting for dinner.

Harvest Appetizer Plates—Set of 4 ($40 On Sale $27.96) Here

Sur La Table Cast Iron Set—5 Pieces

Cast iron is a must-have for the kitchen. It heats evenly, is oven-safe up to 500°, and makes an incredible gift for serious and amateur chefs alike! It includes two Dutch ovens and a 10" skillet, so the possibilities are endless. Plus, this set is on sale for an amazing price, so snap it up fast!

Cast Iron Set—5 Pieces ($600 $239.96) Here

Emile Henry Pie Dish

Red pie dish

You just learned the skills to make the most divine pies; now make sure you have the perfect dish to make them at home. The Emilie Henry Pie Dish is crafted from Burgundy clay that heats evenly, cooks gently, and is so durable it can go from a hot oven to the freezer immediately. It's chip-proof, can be cut into directly when serving, and is incredibly easy to clean. This is no run-of-the-mill pie dish!

Emile Henry Pie Dish ($54.95 On Sale $34.96) Here

Sur La Table Ultimate Cookie Cutter Set

Set of cookie cutters scattered around raw cut dough and frosting

It's that time of year! In addition to 14 stainless steel cookie cutters, you get 10 pastry bags, four stainless steel tips, one icing scribe, one 4" offset spatula, and one coupler. That's enough to make anyone feel like a pro! (And these cookie cutters aren't just for the holidays! You'll be able to create fun treats all year with this selection.)

Sur La Table Ultimate Cookie Cutter Set ($34.95) Here

Sur La Table Ornaments

We are completely in love with the Sur La Table collection of handcrafted artisan ornaments. These beautiful ornaments are unique and definitely ready to make your home sparkle. Whether you (or a loved one) are a cocktail lover, a chef, or just appreciate whimsical goodies, there's a huge selection for everyone on your list!

Sur La Table Ornaments (Starting at $18) Here

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.

All images courtesy of Sur La Table.

There’s nothing like a family road trip to get everyone excited to check out another area of the country. For your next adventure, up your road trip game with a camper van rental from GoCamp. We checked out the “Airbnb of camper vans” for ourselves and would totally recommend it for your next family camping weekend, especially with fall camping on the horizon. It comes with all the gear you need, plus a comfy spot to sleep away from the bugs. You’re going to love it!

1. Your GoCamp van comes with everything you need.

Kate Loweth

Gone are the days of packing a car full of gear for your next camping trip. GoCamp vans come with literally everything you need to cook, wash dishes and enjoy the campfire. In addition to the sink, our van had a solar-charged Yeti cooler and all the cooking gear needed to make some mean camping tacos. Pots, pans, a camp stove with propane, a French press for the all-important coffee, and place settings for four people were all included. The van's owner even let us use some of his camp chairs. All we had to bring was our clothes, sleeping bags for the kids, some food, and some firewood. That's it! 

Related: Camping Gear That Does Everything (Except Pitch the Tent)

2. The interior is your mini kitchen on the road.

interior of a camper van
Kate Loweth

The main drag of the family road trip is arguably the constant dining out. The GoCamp vans save you the aggravation (and funds) that requires by bringing your kitchen with you. While all the rigs are set up slightly differently, our Sprinter van had a pump-powered sink where we could wash dishes and an indoor area if we needed to cook out of the elements. It also came with a folding table to set up a kitchen outdoors.  

Bedding for the lower mattress was provided and the kids in the upper bunk brought their sleeping bags to make it easy. Sleeping in the Sprinter van was actually quite comfortable, much better than the usual camping sleep that's for sure! 

3. A camper van will have you sleeping in style.

Kate Loweth

There's something about bringing your bed with you that makes traveling in a GoCamp camper van especially epic. The GoCamp fleet of camper vans is anything but cookie-cutter. Scroll through their available rigs and you'll find everything from old-school Volkswagen Vanagons to Mercedes Sprinter vans. Different sleeping arrangements appeal to different families with some offering interior sleeping quarters and some roof-top popups or tents. The Sprinter van offers the largest option with seating for five and sleeping quarters (via a double bunk) for four. 

4. No RV spot needed.

Kate Loweth

Perhaps our favorite aspect of the GoCamp camping experience is that you don't need to search high and low for those high-demand RV campsites. A traditional campsite is plenty large enough to fit your camper van, your kids, and the gear. This gives you the flexibility to book your campsites as you go or try your luck at a first-come-first-served campsite. 

5. More time for hiking.

kids walking through trees at Point Reyes
Kate Loweth

An additional bonus comes when you arrive at your campsite and don't have to spend time finding a (hopefully) flat area and setting up your tent. Your all-weather sleeping quarters will keep everyone warm and happy, and you'll have more time to spend exploring your campground. 

Related: 45 Ideas That’ll Make You a Campground Pro

6. The ride is a part of the adventure.

camper van next to a field
Kate Loweth

We loved tooling around the Northern California coast on our recent GoCamp adventure because the van was so fun to drive and easy to maneuver. No blind spots or special parking spots were needed, the van could take us anywhere we wanted to go. The kids especially loved that our van was named "Vanica Patrick" and they enjoyed talking about our new friend Vanica all weekend long. 

Related: 11 Reasons Why You Should Try RV Camping with Kids

7. GoCamp is ready to kick off your next road trip adventure.

two boys on a tree stump while family camping
Kate Loweth

Your GoCamp rental comes with 125 miles per day included in your rental (with additional miles incurring an additional charge). Rentals range from $105-250/night and are a minimum of three or four days depending on the season. Check the rent-a-van page for current availability and see if there's availability near you. 

GoCamp Camper Vans
Online: gocamp.com

Editor’s note: This rental was provided by GoCamp but the opinions belong to the author. 

We all know how important moms are, but what do moms and local businesses have in common? They are both hardworking and the backbone of our families and communities! We can’t think of a better way to honor and support both than by buying small from local Bay Area businesses this Mother’s Day (and always!)—check out some of our Mother’s Day gift guide favorites below perfect for new moms, seasoned moms and moms all around!

Oh La La Picnics!
Treat mom to an experience she won't forget anytime soon—a picnic in which she doesn't have to lift a finger! Oh la la picnics will provide a lavish picnic complete with food, decor and flowers and all she has to do is show up, ready to relax and enjoy (hunny, are you reading this?!). 

Aldea Home & Baby

This Mission District shop is offering gift baskets for Mother's Day that will definitely impress. The Cozy Time Bundle is perfect for the tea lover as it includes Index of Teas Team Towel, True Tea infuser mug, Mug Imprint Ochre, S'well Elan Sport Bottle and Mog Egg Cup from Donna Wilson. Or go for the Treat Yourself Bundle for a mom who needs a pampering session pronto. It includes a Louvelle eye mask, bath bomb cubes, Nightshift wax candle and Slow North Harmony bath salts. 

All items can be shipped or picked up curbside at their SF location.

Preserved
For the mom who is into (or wants to be into) the fermentation craft, Preserved in Oakland is a kitchen shop that focuses on pickling, canning and kombucha brewing. In addition to supplies, the shop offers artisanal food products, kitchenware and even workshops to answer all your questions about the sustainable process of preservation and fermentation. The Sourdough Starter Kit and Kombucha Kit are two kits to consider starting with!

Step Ladder Creamery

Treat mom to a cheese plate unlike any other. Stepladder Creamery makes small-batch cheeses with milk from their herd of LaMancha goats at their Central California farm. Their small cheese plate bundle includes four-ounce wedges of Paso Vino and Cabrillo, a Ragged Point, a Big Sur, a Spicy Fromage Blanc and a Marinated Fromage Blanc. Add on their goat milk soap or avocado blossom honey for the ultimate gift pack. They also offer a three-month subscription plan and a large cheese plate bundle for the ultra cheese lover. 

Three Babes Bakeshop
With humble beginnings as a pop-up shop from a shipping container in the Mission, Three Babes Bakeshop quickly expanded to farmers markets and their own commercial kitchen. In addition to using local, organic ingredients they also offer a virtual pie class, ‘you bake’ chocolate chip cookie dough and a pie subscription service. Find their delicious treats at the Ferry Plaza Farmer’s Market on Saturdays or pickup orders at their bakeshop kitchen.

Bakeshop Kitchen
2501 Phelps St.
San Francisco, CA
Pre-order pickups & deliveries

Ferry Building Farmers Market
Saturdays 8 a.m.-2 p.m. only

 

 

Farm Girl Flowers

Skip the dozen roses this year and go for something more earthy. Farmgirl Flowers delivers gorgeous bouquets and live plants all over the U.S. from their home base in San Francisco's Flower Mart. It's not cookie cutter arrangements here—rustic-style arrangements are hand crafted from fresh flowers and each bouquet is it's own unique work of art wrapped in a burlap bag. 

Arcana
A plant shop with a wine bar?! Yes, please! Treat mom to some greenery AND an outing at this gorgeously designed greenhouse that is also a community gathering place and art gallery. We're not sure this place could be more hip!

 

Kokak Chocolates

Kokak Chocolates
Single origin and handcrafted from sustainable and fair trade cocoa, Kokak chocolates stem from founder and chocolatier Carol Gancia’s serious love for chocolate. With a store in the Castro neighborhood of San Francisco, Kokak also offers local bicycle delivery locally and welcomes custom orders.

 

Earthen
With a ceramics studio in the back of the shop, Earthen features the work of local artists and makers which means a present for mom from here is a unique, one-of-a-kind ceramics or homeware good that she will love! 

Floral designer Natalie B Designs has a special treat for all mothers and little ones in the Bay Area. The Flower Crown Box includes supplies for two flower crowns (so little ones can design their own), greens and flowers, ribbon, wire, instructions and access to a step-by-step video. Beautifully arranged and thoughtfully sourced box is a great gift for mamas and daughters. Pick-up and shipping is available. 

Culk
A small business that prints original designs on clothing that range from local landmarks to work from local artists, Culk is also intimately involved with community fundraising for various causes including wildfire relief and offering art workshops to local high school students. A purchase here isn't just a fashion statement but an investment in the community as well! 

Alice C. via yelp

Cheesequakes, made in San Francisco, are all natural, creamy, and moist with a luxurious crust and flavors that, like San Franciscans, are sophisticated and unusual. Cheesequakes is offering delivery of its full-size and individual serving Cheesecakes, made with all natural ingredients and available in a variety of unique flavors, including “Mama’s Ricotta.” Cheesequakes offers Bay Area delivery via DoorDash.

Sweet Freedom
Food allergy moms—rejoice! This allergy-friendly bake store is gluten, dairy, wheat, egg, peanuts, tree nuts and soy free and the best part? You won't even know its missing... their cupcakes, cakes and cookies are THAT good. 

Beautiful Jewelry- Mountainside Made

Mountainside Made
Handmade, small-batch artisanal jewelry made in the Santa Cruz mountains, it's the perfect one-of-a-kind gift for mom. Creator Amber Duncan uses inspiration from museums and antiques to create simple and beautiful pieces that can be worn every day. Check them out in person at the General Store, or order online for shipping. The shop also offers Be Well boxes, including one for mom. 

Cooking Class from Cozymeal

Browse an endless variety of cooking classes from this San Francisco service. Gourmet chefs share their knowledge and experience in a welcoming environment to learn something new. Whether it's the art of macaroons or Italian comfort food, there is something for everyone. Book an online class and treat mom to something delicious on her special day. 

Online: cozymeal.com

Leon and George

Leon and George

This San Francisco-based potted plant company offers an amazing white-glove service with each order that is hand-selected, treated and styled. Plants come in a variety of sizes and you have access to their awesome team of trained horticulturists and master gardens to help pick out the perfect plan for mom. They also arrive in a beautiful ceramic pot (in various color options) and furniture-grade wood stand of your choice. Now that's great service! 

Onlineleonandgeorge.com

—Christine Lai, Sandra Lee & Kate Loweth

RELATED STORIES:

31 Gifts Moms Really Want for Mother’s Day
22 Homemade Mother’s Day Cards Every Kid Can Make
Mother’s Day Paper Crafts for Kids

Fun food will always make it easier for your kids to eat their lunch and dinner. Brighten up your kids’ next meal with one of the smart flower food ideas we hand-picked for you. We have everything from vegetable flower bouquets to apple roses, and of course, ham flowers. Enjoy these clever food hacks any time of the year with your family and friends!

1. Vegetable Flower Bouquet via Fork & Beans
This is the best hack to get the kids to eat and love crudites. All you need here is a knife or cute cookie cutter with a flower shape. Add a vinaigrette or any other favorite dressing your child loves so they can dip away.

2. Tomato Tulips via OneLittleProject
What flower do you think of first when thinking about springtime? Tulips! Cherry tomato tulips are a fun idea for lunchboxes as you can use your kids’ favorite foods: cherry tomatoes and cream cheese. Use a mix of yellow and red tomatoes for an even more colorful composition.

3. Ham Flowers via Tueko.com
Maybe one of the most popular hacks, this ham flower is impressive when you see it but is so easy to make. You only need a knife and ham.

4. Strawberry Flowers via @making_lunches_fun
What about trying strawberry roses or strawberry tulips? The strawberry rose is a just a one-ingredient recipe requiring simple cutting skills to create petals one after the other. Strawberry tulips require 4-ingredients (cream cheese, powdered sugar, sour cream, fresh strawberries) and about 20-min. worth of prep time.

5. Rolled Up Fruit & Veggies via Buona Pappa
This hack has been replacing the strawberry rose in most of our kids’ lunch boxes lately and we understand why. It’s easy to roll up food and you can “twist” the recipe with any fruit or vegetable available.

Do you have a story you’d like to share with our readers? We’d love to hear it! Sign up to contribute your story on our Voices Network.

Teuko is the first platform that empowers families to simplify lunch packing. Using Teuko, they can find and share kid-approved lunchbox ideas, recipes, and tips, all in one place. Teuko is transforming the lunch packing experience by boosting inspiration and motivation week after week. 

There’s nothing as motivational as working out with a friend, especially a pal who is on the same health track as you. So when we discovered the #fitmom community on Instagram, an incredibly positive community full of delicious food pics, innovative fitness techniques and life with kids, we knew we had to share more. Scroll down to see which moms we turn to for instant inspiration (especially on the days we can hardly get out of bed!).

 

@bwmcfitness
As a trainer and mom of 4 boys, Jennifer Gelman aims to find the athlete in every parent. Her workout videos and photos are truly fun to see, especially when she incorporates her kiddos into the routine. Nothing will work out your glutes like squatting with a three-year-old in your lap! Follow her at @bwmcfitness on Instagram.

Healthy living isn’t just about getting your reps in and eating right—it’s also about the mindset and finding balance. That’s why we love Brooke Froelich, a momma who tackles life outdoors with her little one. Snow or shine, she always makes sure to get fresh air into her routines. See her trail adventures at @brooke.froelich on Instagram.

@momswearheels
Monica Bencomo of @momswearheels has got the trifecta of healthy living. She’s funny, fit and full of advice for parents who are looking to achieve a balanced lifestyle. While there are not as many photos of food, Monica posts recipes and inspiring before and after photos that get us pumped for a morning workout.

@nomnompaleo
You could plan your entire breakfast, lunch and dinner plans for the rest of the year just by looking at @nomnompaleo‘s Instagram. Michelle Tam is a foodie genius behind an award-winning blog, cooking app and award-nominated cookbook, so there’s no doubt that her family is happily well fed. Plus, they say diet is 70% of the way to getting fit, so follow @nomnompaleo to get a 10% head start.

 

@trishaenriquez
From one mom to another, Tricia Enriquez is a fitness coach that all parents can get behind. Many of her photos feature her adorable daughter dancing or working on that downward dog stretch right beside her. Plus, if you’re all about before and after photos for proof or jumping into a 30-day challenge, @trishaenriquez will satisfy that bug.

 

@thefoodiekids
Sometimes the key to eating happy and healthy is eating with style. That’s why we love The Foodie Kids of Austin. They feature delicious dishes foodie kids are gobbling up left and right. In a very yummy way, @thefoodiekids offers up great ideas on new foods your mini-me might want to try. Sure there are desserts and french fries featured, but life is about balance and @thefoodiekids has got that balance right.

 

@Busy.Fit.Mom
Brooke Amaral of @Busy.Fit.Mom breaks down how to balance fitness, nutrition and mom life in an inspirational way. You can’t help but feel motivated after seeing her sessions. Whether in the gym or outside having adventures with her kids, catch her in action at @Busy.Fit.Mom.

@jennagtaz_fit
Find your “why” and self-confidence with Jenna Guerrettaz over at @jennagtaz_fit. She’s dedicated to helping other moms find their way to a healthier life that fits them. No cookie-cutter advice here. Be sure to add her to your feed ASAP for fit tips.

 

@Caroline_Prestano
We love how honest @Caroline_Prestano is. She keeps it real and gives you doable workouts you can tackle at home (like she does in her basement.) Plus this podcaster has recipes and more for her followers. Follow @Caroline_Prestano to find out more.

—Christal Yuen with Jesseca Stenson

Featured image: Madison Lavern via Unsplash

 

RELATED STORIES: 

26 of the Best At-Home Workout Programs

35 Healthy (& Easy!) Meals to Kick-Start the Year

Meditation for Parents: A Guide for Beginners

Your baby may not remember this first Valentine’s Day, but that’s no reason not to go big with hearts and sweets. Read on for outfits, activities, sweets and photo ops to make this holiday memorable. You’ll looooove how cute your photos come out.

1. Choose an Outfit You'll Love

Primary

Buy a special outfit for the big day, like this heart-printed bodysuit from Primary. It's made from 100% combed cotton slub, with snaps on the shoulder seam for easy on/off. Visit Primary's Heart Shop for this and other clothing items in lovely prints and colors.

Available at primary.com, $16.

2. Share a Sweet Treat

Sugarwish

If your baby is eating solids (or just gumming them), use a small heart-shaped cookie cutter to make a sweet treat for you to share. From watermelon to toast or lasagna noodles, there are lots of foods you can cut into cute shapes. For something even more decadent, send away for Sugarwish cookies. The company offers 20+ cookie flavors, including keto-friendly, vegan and gluten-free options. 

3. Count Down to the Big Day

Pottery Barn Kids

Advent calendars aren't just for Christmas anymore! Build up excitement for Valentine's Day with Mickey Mouse and this cotton canvas and felt calendar that has pockets to hold small gifts for the 14 days leading up to the big one. Fill each pocket with a love note, treat or toy, or keep it simple and just move the Mickey ears to the correct day in the countdown. Available at Pottery Barn Kids, $49.

4. Decorate with Love

Instagram-ready! Decorate with items baby will love to play with, like these wood blocks ($45) that spell out LOVE, HUGS, KISS and XOXO. 

Available at Etsy shop Timeless Notion.

5. Read Together

Books you and your child will love: My Little Lovebug ($35), a personalized book featuring your child's face and name with lots of sweet sentiments and cute animal images. Kisses, Kisses, Up & Down ($7, paperback) is an interactive read that'll have you giving your baby kisses on their nose, toes, belly, chin and more. I Love You Stinky Face ($7, paperback) is a sweet story about the unconditional love a mother has for her child.

It's never too early to read to your baby. Check out these tips for reading to a newborn.

6. Take Some Pics

Under the Pear Tree

Kiss your baby while wearing bright red or pink lipstick for an Instagram-winning photo. Kiley from the Under the Pear Tree blog used the app PicMonkey to add some artistic flair for this memorable photo. Pro tip: Don't use long-wearing lipstick.

7. Make Cupid Cupcakes

These red velvet cupcakes from Bakerella feature cupid arrows attached to a 6-inch lollipop stick. You'll find both the arrow printables and cupcake recipe on the Bakerella website.

8. Write Love Letters to Your Baby

Your child (and your future self) will thank you for celebrating this Valentine's Day by professing your love to your mini-sweetheart. The time capsule Letters to My Baby ($13) contains 12 fold-and-mail letters so you can continue on your tradition every Valentine's Day for years to come. 

9. Create a Heartfelt Keepsake

Mitts, Piggys and Paws

Remember how tiny baby's hands are with a keepsake you can display for Valentine's Day or all year round. This sweet heart is from Mitts, Piggys and Paws. You send them an impression of your child's hand in PlayDoh and they'll create a one-of-a-kind piece of art.

10. Swaddle Your Baby in Love

Aden & Anais

Hearts and stripes and everything nice decorate these muslin swaddles ($55 for 4) from Aden & Anais. The breathable, versatile and soft fabric surrounds your little one in comfy goodness and makes everybody who sees your baby smile. Lay them on the floor during during tummy time or cover part of the car seat on a sunny day for an afternoon snooze on the go.

Aimee Della Bitta

featured image: Silviarita via Pixabay

RELATED STORIES:

How Valentine’s Day Changes After Baby (& Why You’ll Love It)

8 Valentine’s Day Art Projects to DIY With Your Baby

12 DIY Projects for a Crafty Valentine’s Day

What’s better than new holiday decorations? Affordable ones of course! IKEA just unveiled it’s 2021 holiday collection and decorations start at just one dollar.

Every item in IKEA’s new Vinterfest collection is designed with families in mind. Each piece is sleek and stylish, yet simple and functional. In other words, you won’t spend the entire month of December asking your kids not to touch anything. That classic Scandinavian style that’s basic yet bold embodies this whimsical collection. Here are a few of our favorites.

Artificial Tree

This six foot tree couldn't be easier to put up year after year. Needle-free and easy to store, this popular IKEA item is truly the gift that keeps on giving.

$130

Animal Ornaments

Could these adorable animal ornaments be any cuter? Each pack comes with Scandinavian-inspired forest animals that include a fox, hare and a reindeer.

$13

Cookie Cutters with Container

Enjoy some quality family time baking those holiday cookies with this set of assorted cookie cutter shapes.

$4

Tealight Holder

Whimsical and functional, this adorable tree and fox tealight holder is the perfect way to dress up that boring little candle.

$10

Table Runner

A fun and festive table runner for just $5?! This four foot runner is made from cotton and is easily machine washable.

$5

Holiday Tin

Pack those fresh-baked cookies into these adorable tins and they make the perfect homemade gift for a teacher or neighbor.

$4

You can shop the entire Vinterfest collection in stores and online here.

—Karly Wood

All photos: IKEA

 

RELATED STORIES

We’ll Gladly Work 9 to 5 to Buy This Dolly Parton Advent Calendar

Little Debbie Is Coming to Ice Cream Pints for the First Time

The Best Advent Calendars of 2021

Covering your house with Halloween thrills and chills has never been easier. We found 14 homemade (or almost) Halloween decorations that range from super clever (dead & breakfast anyone?) to delightfully simple. Scroll down to get inspired. 

Add a Bubbling Cauldron to the Yard or Front Porch

courtesy of Grandin Road

Witches and wizards will appreciate a properly bubbling cauldron on Halloween night. We love this tutorial from Scattered Thoughts of a Crafty Mom. Get what you need in the link below! 

Get the look here

Go Overboard on Pumpkins

Andrei Lanovskii via Unsplash

We love the idea of going overboard on pumpkins lining your front porch. You can get various sizes and shapes and even use some luminaries! 

Get the look here

Halloween Yard Sign

Jen Theodore via Unsplash

Lead little ones to your front door with eerie signage. From Harry Potter to zombie warnings and more, there’s no end to the possibilities! We love this version from Birds and Soap.

Get the look here.  

Keep It Simple

Annie Spratt via Unsplash

If you aren't a huge fan of over-the-top Halloween decorations, keep it simple with gourds, pumpkins and straw. It's still got that festive feeling, and you aren't staring down skeletons for a month. 

Get the look here, or snag real pumpkins at your local pumpkin patch. 

Make a Cave-Like Entrance

The Crafting Chicks

It’s easy to make your porch a spooky cave where bats dwell like this cobweb banner we spotted over at The Crafting Chicks. We love how it’s sweet enough to not scare off tiny trick-or-treaters. 

Get the look here. 

Milk Carton Luminaries

Jen Sedillo via Eighteen 25

Better start saving your milk jugs (and ask your friends!) now to make your own Spirit Jugs like the ones from Eighteen 25.

Stacked Painted Pumpkins

courtesy Brit Co

These stackable pumpkins look amazing, add a funky vibe to your front porch, and are surprisingly easy to make—especially when you follow the tutorial we found over at Brit + Co. It’s also a decoration idea that’ll last for years and can be used both inside and out. 

Get the pumpkins here

Dead & Breakfast Sign

Christy James via Confessions of a Serial DIYer

How clever is this Dead & Breakfast sign from Confessions of a Serial DIYer? It's the perfect addition to your haunted home. 

Get the look here.

 

Easy Floating Ghosts

Practically Functional

These floating ghosts seem more sweet than spooky. The best part? This last-minute decor detail is a cinch to make. Jessi of Practically Functional has the details on a DIY anyone can tackle.

 

 

Giant Spider Web

Jacob Clayton at MyUntangledLife

Life can be a tangled web and MyUntangledLife makes one of the best! Drape this amazing spider’s home on your front porch for the holiday and see how many little ghouls and goblins dare enter!  

Get the look here

Mice Silhouettes

courtesy Sixty Fifth Avenue

If you’ve got steps up to your front door, this idea from Sixty-Fifth Avenue works perfectly. We love the silhouette mice: they add a spooky touch without being too creepy. Add in a few pumpkins and any Cinderellas out for a stroll will feel right at home. You can find the silhouettes at the local craft store or make your own if you’re feeling crafty. See the entire set up over at Sixty-Fifth Avenue.

 

Climbing Skeletons

Stefanie Schiada of Brooklyn Limestone

We are in awe of the skeletons caught crawling all over this amazing home in Brooklyn. Stephanie of Brooklyn Limestone shares her inspirations and stunning home decor here. And, even if you don't have a 100-year-old home to decorate, you can still get the look by following this tutorial from Instructables

Nancy Creative

These Jack O’ Lanterns are anything but “cookie cutter"! They’ll light a ghoulish path to your door as luminaries, or add a stylish pop to your porch. All you need are stainless steel cookie cutters and a rubber mallet. Nancy at Nancy Creative has the scoop.

 

— Natasha Davis & Gabby Cullen

 

RELATED STORIES
Amazon’s Best Halloween Decorations (Most Are Under $20!)
Boo! Lowe’s Is Getting Ready for Halloween with Spooky New Inflatables
11 Ways to Dress Up Your Front Porch & Door This Halloween

Who’s happier to ditch real school for summer fun, you or your minis? We’ve curated a list of tactile learning activities to keep the kiddos off screens and out of the summer slide. Read on for 15 creative learning ideas that’ll give those golden afternoons a little brain boost.

Click here to save this list on Pinterest.

Activities to Promote Literacy

Tell Tales

Rory's Story Cubes

Story Cubes are a creative way to practice putting together stories, and your sidekicks won’t know that they’re learning. Roll the dice and use the results in a tall tale. These are a great way to pass the time on car trips. For the smallest fry, use three dice. For older scribes, use all nine and split the words up between the beginning, middle, and end of their stories. 

Write Letters

August de Richelieu via Pexels

Penpals! The kids can practice their fine motor skills while sending a little sunshine to a friend or relative. Or you can take the love up a notch and write to seniors in care homes. Contact your local senior residence, or check out one of these programs. 

Bake Letters

cottonbro via Pexels

What’s better than learning to read with cookies? Nothing. Use this alphabet cookie cutter set to bake words in the ultimate tactile reading game. Spelling has never been more delicious.

Play with Words

Pixabay via Pexels

How many words can your wordsmiths make with the sentence ‘Learning from home is fun?’ Take Anna Whiteley's idea a step further and create summer-themed sentences such as ‘Hot days are perfect for popsicles,’ and ‘Our family loves the beach.’

Do a Scavenger Hunt

Caleb Oquendo

Get the crew reading and moving with one of our indoor/outdoor-friendly scavenger hunts. Early readers can use the pictures to puzzle out the words and avoid the summer slide. Veteran readers can solidify their spelling skills.

Activities to Promote Numeracy

Count the Beans

Teresa Douglas

Teaching math concepts is a snap when you use tactile learning aides like beans or grains of rice. Your minis will intuitively understand division if you swap the beans for candies and tell them to split the candies fairly. 

Make Patterns

Teresa Douglas

Collect rocks, sticks, and other treasures from outside to make creative patterns. Your crew can learn to make patterns that repeat, grow, or spiral. The Artful Parent has beautiful photos for inspiration. 

Take a Walk

Jessica Lucia via flickr

Take a math detective walk. Give your budding Sherlock a notepad and pencil and get outside. How many birds can your little spot? Pick different themes for each walk, or spend the week focused on just one.

Get Into the Kitchen

Polina Tankilevitch via Pexels

Keep those measurement skills burning all summer long with the cookbook How Many Ways Can You Cut a Pie? If your crew prefers cookies, this three-ingredient oatmeal cookie is quick, easy, and healthy enough for breakfast!

Play Cards

Oleg Magni via Pexels

Turn an ordinary deck of cards into a creative learning experience. We Are Teachers serves up math-tastic ideas for reviewing addition, subtraction and fraction concepts in spades. 

Measure Up

Waseca Biomes

Who’s bigger, your mini or a dolphin? Could you have a tiger over for tea? Would either fit in a chair? Whip out Wasecabiomes Animals of the world Measuring Tape and help your budding biologist find out! 

Explore Science

Melissa Heckscher

Make some bouncy balls with ingredients you can find at the grocery store. The fine folks at The STEM Laboratory walk you through the activity and even explain the science behind it. Hint: You’ll never look at spaghetti the same way again. 

Get Some Sun

Teresa Douglas

Practice the first step of the scientific method by measuring the amount of sunlight in a garden. This activity is a great excuse to get the kids outside. Every hour the littles mark whether the plants are in the shade, partial sun, or full sun. Give your scientist a clipboard for added pizzazz. 

Engineer a Little Fun

Teresa Douglas

Introduce your engineer-in-training to Snap circuits, a tactile way to learn about electricity and closed circuits. As a bonus, your engineer will also learn to follow plans and problem solve. 

Kristina Paukshtite via Pexels

Your little scientists will love learning about DNA through the magic of strawberries. Each strawberry cell has eight copies of DNA, which means you can see them without a microscope in this fun experiment. Slide over to Little Bins for Little Hands to see how it’s done.

—Teresa Douglas

 

RELATED STORIES:

18 Cheap Sidewalk Activities to Get You Outdoors

Vacay at Home: 7 Days of Indoor Play Ideas

11 Clever Counting Games for Kids