Need an activity that doubles as a learning moment? Writing a limerick is actually simple when you learn the basics of its structure and it’s an excellent way to practice rhyming words with kids. While the origin of the limerick is unknown, many people believe it refers back to an Irish soldier’s song, “Will You Come Up to Limerick?”. Read on to get the simple tutorial on writing your own limerick with the kids!
1. Rhyme Time
A limerick has five lines. The first, second and fifth lines all rhyme with each other. The third and fourth lines rhyme with each other.
To
Who
Lock
Stock
Glue
2. Feel the Beat
The first, second and fifth lines (which all rhyme with each other) have the same rhythmic pattern:
Ba dum ba da dum da da dum (8 syllables)
The third and fourth lines (which rhyme with one another) have this pattern:
Ba dum ba da dum (five syllables)
3. Try it out
There once was a kid who was sad (Ba dum ba da dum da da dum)
He made up a lie to his dad (Ba dum ba da dum da da dum)
His pop knew the trick (ba dum ba da dum)
And called it out quick (ba dum ba da dum)
And now the kid’s ice cream’s gone bad (Ba dum ba da dum da da dum)
A famous example:
Hickory, dickory, dock The mouse ran up the clock The clock struck run, And down he run, Hickory, dickory, dock!
4. Get creative!
Want to make it easier on little ones? Try a “fill-in-the-blank” method. Just take away a few of the rhyming words and have them guess the answers.
There once was a _____ from the farm Who had sixteen hairs on his ______ Dog gave them a pull Cat laughed like a _____ They never meant him any ____.
Becoming a big brother or sister is an exciting time for firstborns. Days of solo playtime can now be replaced with magical adventures with a lifelong companion. While a new baby coming into the picture is indeed a joyous moment, it’s also a transitional period for the entire household. Schedules, routines and family outings all begin to change, which can be overwhelming for kids to process.
If you’re struggling to ease your youngster into this life-altering milestone, a relatable book may do the trick–and we have just the one for you! HarperCollins’ newly released Just Harriet introduces a precocious young girl named Harriet who is having trouble accepting a new baby that’s coming into the picture. Though she was promised that everything would stay the same, life is starting to feel different, especially since she’s sent to stay with her grandmother during the summer.
Written by Elana K. Arnold, the award-winning author of A Boy Called Bat, this young middle-grade story helps readers seven years and up understand and work through change. With some adventure along the way and a mystery that Harriet stumbles upon (and sets out to solve), kids will enjoy this transformative book.
The Story
Meet Harriet Wermer. A rising fourth-grader who enjoys adventure, playing with her orange Tabby cat named Matzo Ball, and spending time with her mom and dad. She doesn't like change and is known for telling a little white lie every now and then.
Although Harriet would much rather be alongside her parents during summer break, she learns that her parents won’t be able to spend time with her. Since her dad has to work and her mom is ordered to stay on bed rest for the remainder of her pregnancy, Harriet must stay with her grandmother and her grumpy old basset hound named Moneypenny.
Fortunately for Harriet, her Nanu (as she calls her) runs a cozy bed and breakfast on a small island off the coast of California. There, she makes new and interesting friends, finds a summer of adventure and may even unveil a surprise–one that involves her dad, a secret key and a treasure hunt. Can Harriet solve the mystery, and most importantly, come to terms with her new role of becoming a big sis?
Just Harriet is a wonderful addition to your child’s bookshelf that focuses on family life, personal growth and life changes. Purchase the book now and join Harriet in her exciting adventures!
It’s been a year for Rihanna. She officially became a billionaire in August, which made her the richest female musician and second-richest female entertainer. (Behind only Oprah!) Now, she’s getting ready to welcome a child with Rocky, who clearly adores her. He called Rihanna “the one” in an interview with GQ in May, and talked about how much their relationship meant to him, saying it was,”So much better. So much better when you got ‘the One.’ She amounts to probably, like, a million of the other ones. I think when you know, you know. She’s the One.”
In November, PEOPLE reported that the couple were dating after years of friendship. This will be the first child for both of them. Congratulations!
A superhero squad today, a band of bandits tomorrow, you never know where your kids’ imaginations are going to lead them. In order to help you be fully prepped, we’ve pulled together the ultimate list of kids’ dress-up clothes. Filled with supplies and props (most of which you probably already have) that will keep their minds engaged and active, keep reading to find out what should be in your dress-up box.
Glasses & Sunglasses Put on the perfect pair for instant rock star status!
Scarves & Ties Tie one on, add Dad's old vest, and you've got a professor or school teacher.
Jewelry All those old Mardi Gras beads will look great dangling around their necks.
Sports Jerseys What's an impromptu game without the proper sports attire?
Formal Wear When your kids want to host their fancy ball, old bridesmaid dresses (you'll NEVER wear it again), short dresses, suit jackets, white gloves and bowties fit the bill.
Shoes & Boots There's just something awesome about wearing Mom and Dad's shoes.
Toys If you don't already have them on hand, a doctor or veterinarian kit, a toy microphone, a cash register or any other open-ended play items are best bets.
Hawaiian Leis & Feather Boa No dress-up box is complete without one (or both) of these. We love these affordable options for leis and these colorful boas.
Jump Rope They'll use it to harness their horses, turn themselves into a train, or even rope imaginary cattle. Snag one here.
Cardboard Boxes Probably one of the most awesome and free props of all time, a big box transforms into a spaceship, a boat, or an eight-wheel truck. See our favorite ideas here.
Linens & Tapestry Sheets, pillowcases, and towels make for super-easy capes and ballgowns. Also, you can set the stage by throwing sheets over chairs and furniture to make a fort or cave for little explorers. Or, drape colorful tablecloths and tapestry to make exotic locales.
Play Money Pull from the Monopoly game for free!
Backpacks, Purses & More Old wallets, handbags, and last year’s school backpack are all perfect for stashing treasures.
Office Equipment Your CEO-in-training will have her startup business running in no time with old calculators, briefcases, staplers, keys, and computer keypads.
Other Props Other items, such as phones, baby bottles, kitchen utensils, mixing bowls, yardsticks, stethoscopes, old notepads, office stamps, and old passports are great additions to the dress-up bin; you never know who your kids will feel like being today!
Think back to your favorite movies, cartoons and books as a child. Did you have a list of beloved characters that you needed in every toy possible? Maybe it was a zany animal, a cuddly creature or a lifelike friend.
Now, imagine them all coming to life. That’s exactly what Kip, a shy girl living in a boisterous city, finds herself encountering in The Odds.
A graphic novel written and illustrated by bestselling children’s author Matt Stanton, The Odds follows protagonist Kip and her eventful journey of meeting ten fictional characters in the real world. As the first installment of Stanton’s book series for kiddos, readers of all ages will find themselves immersed in the challenges Kip faces from meeting her imaginary group.
One morning, Kip wakes up to find herself face-to-face with characters she’s either seen in TV shows, video games, her nightmares and even her father’s drawings. Known as “The Odds,” the quirky ensemble is made up of a dragon-hunting rabbit, a ninja, a race-car driver, an older man and a scaredy pants dinosaur. Thankfully, she has her dad by her side to help her with being forced to step outside of her timid bubble and down the path to self-discovery.
With Stanton’s colorful illustrations, humorous plot and heartwarming messaging, The Odds is a read the entire family will love—parents, included! Through Kip’s coming-of-age reflections, kids will learn about creating their own identity, developing new friendships, facing their fears and accepting themselves for who they are.
The Odds is hitting bookshelves on Jan. 4, 2022, so be sure to mark your calendars to grab a copy!
No matter how much you don’t want it to be, divorce is tough on kids. But having an open dialogue with children about the divorce process and how that can affect them helps to normalize their fears and frustrations. Whether it’s taking kids step-by-step through what happens or introducing characters that are relatable, these 12 books tackle divorce in ways that are compassionate and realistic.
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Mom and author Sara Olsher wrote the book she wished she could have given her own daughter while they navigated her own divorce. Written with clear words and bright illustrations, this book shows kids that even though divorce is scary, it is something lots of families get through.
It’s kinda weird for Max to go to an apartment where his dad now lives, and Max isn’t shy about letting his dad know. Told from the point of view of a kid whose parents have divorced, Max it’s an honest exploration of the emotions and challenges of day-to-day life after a divorce. Max makes some new friends and starts to think the apartment might not be so bad after all. Written by Linda Urban. Ages: 7-9
Max and his mom are about to go on a road trip, but Max isn’t excited for it like he usually is. Because usually, his dad comes too. This adventurous book, a follow-up to Linda Urban’s Weekends with Max and His Dad, tackles the emotions a kid can feel after a divorce—like how something like a family vacation can seem less than thrilling when you are missing someone. Ages: 7-9
A Kids Book About series tackles tough topics and puts them into books designed to help normalize discussions around things like anxiety, depression, and divorce. Divorce is tough on the parents, yes, but it can be extra tricky to navigate with the kids. Written by a parent, Ashley Simpo, who has been there, this book is meant to spark an honest discussion about the topic. Ages 3 and up.
This plush animal and book set from Slumberkins is designed to support children through any kind of family change, divorce included. Help your littlest ones navigate big feelings as your family navigates change—Fox will help remind them it is not their fault, they are safe, loved, and their feelings are normal. Ages: 3-8
First published over 25 years ago, this innovative book has helped generations of families learn to talk about and navigate divorce. It’s a comprehensive guide in a language parents and kids can both understand, and tackles topics like having two homes, living with one parent, holidays and special occasions, stepfamilies, and more. Ages: 4-7
Claire Masurel’s little book is simple but incredibly impactful as it takes on a topic that can be very confusing to children during a divorce—living arrangements. The artwork by Kady McDonald Denton helps illustrate both the differences when Alex is at Mommy’s house and Daddy’s house, but also the similarities—in both homes Alex is loved and safe. Ages: 2-5
Divorce Is Not the End of the World: Zoe's and Evan's Coping Guide for Kids
Written by brother and sister Zoe and Evan Stern, with a little help from their mom, Evelyn Stern, this is a first-hand account and coping guide for kids, by kids. Zoe and Evan know just how it feels when parents divorce—theirs split up when they were 15 and 13. They’ve created a positive guide for kids to explore and acknowledge the feelings that come up: guilt, anger, fear, new rules in new homes, blended families, and more. Ages: 8-12
Twelve-year-old Rebecca’s life has changed pretty quickly, almost overnight. Her parents have separated and they’ve moved suddenly to live in Atlanta with Rebecca’s grandma. In Gran’s attic, Rebecca discovers a magic bread box, and it seems to help...at first. Rebecca can get anything she wishes for, as long as it fits inside the box. But soon she discovers the consequences to her wishes, and they aren’t all good. An interesting way to view divorce and the feelings kids have along with it. Ages: 8-12
Big & Little Questions (According to Wren Jo Byrd)
Nine-year-old Wren Jo Byrd’s parents separated over the summer, and now she’s starting a new school year. Wren does not want anyone to know, not even her best friend, Amber. But as the year progresses and a new girl enters the scene who wants to be friends with Wren, Wren struggles to keep her secrets—her dad lives somewhere else now, and things are not the same at her home with her mom. It’s a book about divorce, yes, but also about friendship, and trusting others with things we think should be kept secret. Ages: 7-9
What’s the first rule of punk? Be yourself. On the first day of a new school, twelve-year-old Malú (María Luisa, if you want to annoy her) doesn’t exactly have a smooth day: she violates the school’s dress code with her punk rock look and upsets Posada Middle School’s queen bee. But her dad, who now lives far away because her parents have divorced, reminds her, things get better if she just remembers what being punk really is. This awesome book by Celia C. Perez gives kids encouragement to be themselves and be strong even when there are big changes at home. Ages: 10-12
Many divorce books show kids living primarily with mom and spending time with dad on weekends, but that is not always the arrangement—and it’s not the arrangement in Paula Danziger’s book. Phoebe’s parents are divorced and now she’s living with her dad in the country, and taking the bus into the city on weekends to be with mom. Phoebe isn’t happy about it, but she’s getting used to it until her mom announces she’s getting remarried and everything changes again. Ages: 10 and up
—Amber Guetebier Featured image courtesy of Slumberkins
Being a child in today’s world is very different than just a decade ago. Kiddos have traded in toys for cell phones, playtime for screen time and hanging out with friends in person for texting and FaceTime. It has not only changed the way they interact and play but also shifted the type of gifts they’re now asking for—because if you don’t have the latest phone or tablet, who are you?
If Grandma and Grandpa give your youngsters the next gadget to add to their tech arsenal this holiday season, you want to ensure their new present doesn’t expose them to potential harm. By having so much technology at their fingertips, the world has truly become their oyster, along with the dangers of the internet that comes with it.
That’s what Bark, a parental control app, is hoping to change. Founded in 2015 by CEO Brian Bason, who’s a dad of two, Bark helps parents monitor everything their kiddos do on their phones. From text messages and emails to YouTube and over 30 social media platforms, parents and guardians can have insight into what their children are actually seeing online. In 2020 alone, Bark analyzed 2.1 billion messages and has been able to help protect 5.9 million kids.
The app, which has won awards from The National Parenting Center, Mom’s Choice Awards, and National Parenting Product Awards, was created with the assistance of renowned child psychologists, digital media experts, law enforcement professionals, and youth advisors. As a result, Bark has built an advanced algorithm technology that can detect signs of violence, online predators, adult content, cyberbullying and more.
Receive Alerts Directly to Your Phone
If a child engages with unsuitable content, such as a worrisome website or game, or receives a potentially harmful message, parents are notified with emails and text alerts, thanks to Bark’s 24-hour detection services. The algorithm is also trained to detect slang terms and emojis that kids use today to communicate.
To help parents address tough situations, Bark provides expert recommendations from child psychologists on what steps to take after a particular alert, how to talk about it and more.
Select Your Preferred Monitoring Levels
In each category (sexual content, profanity, etc.), Bark users have the option to select one of three monitoring sensitivity levels (relaxed, moderate, or strict) and can be selective of which alerts they want to see and how. According to Bark, the average parent will receive concerning alerts within 24 hours after signing up.
With 42% of children spending over 30 hours a week on their phones, it can become almost a part-time job for parents to keep track of all that their youngsters are doing on their devices. Bark helps by making sure parents receive alerts about anything concerning, so they don’t have to manually look through every single keystroke their child has made.
Say Goodbye to Tech Overload
As kids spend more time glued to their phones, parents may also want to cut back on screen time. Fortunately, Bark helps promote a healthy balance. It allows families to limit the amount of time spent on the internet by setting customized device use rules for school time, bedtime and free time.
The app also allows parents to pause access on both Wi-Fi and cellular networks when children need downtime for homework, dinner or just a moment without their phone.
Block Inappropriate Website and Games
Parents can also turn to the web filtering features to block specific websites or website categories, like streaming and gaming. So if Roblox or Fortnite is a no-go in your household, you can easily restrict access. If your child does attempt to visit a restricted site or app from the designated block list, you’ll receive an alert notifying you about the issue.
Limit Access to App Stores
App Stores can be made off-limits to youngsters who may have gotten their hands on it in the past—and accidentally purchased a good number of games without your approval. Not only does this save your wallet and you from headaches, but it helps you decide what they’re able to engage with.
Check Your Kiddo’s Whereabouts to Help Keep Them Safe
After the 2018 devastating school shooting at Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Fl., Bark extended its services to all K–12 public and private schools in the nation at no cost. Parents can also turn to the app’s check-in feature to ensure their child’s safety by sending a notification to their phone that requests a response.
Bark has also recently released a new location sharing feature that alerts parents whenever their child arrives at, or leaves, a specific location.
While adults cannot control the entire internet, they can use Bark to create healthy guardrails for their children and make sure they know when their child may be in danger.
Sign up for Bark today and start your seven-day free trial, so you can have peace of mind while your child is online. Learn more about Bark and its mission to keep children safe in this video here.
One of our editors, Karly Wood, took Microsoft Edge, a browser loaded with shopping tools, for a test run for her holiday shopping. Here’s what she found:
Christmas is easily my favorite time of year. While many people quickly tire of the music, shopping and overall flurry of the season, I could blast my carols all day, every day and be quite the happy elf.
Even though the season seems synonymous with spending money, I’d be lying if I didn’t admit that staying on budget when it comes to gift giving is one of my top priorities. Would I love to spend hundreds of dollars on each member of my family? Absolutely! Can I afford to do that? No, I cannot.
When I heard that a new browser just launched to make staying within my holiday budget a cinch, I had to try it out. I took to Microsoft Edge to use my $250 budget and see just how far this smart browser could stretch my funds—and spoiler, I was pleasantly surprised!
It's So Easy to Use
Trying new things can be exciting, but right now I need function! Microsoft Edge is so straightforward. Just pop in your shopping items and you're off and running! The browser automatically takes you where you need to go, offering ratings and reviews, coupons and pricing trends along the way. I've been wanting to get my step mom an Ancestry DNA kit and I know they've been on sale. But rather than purchase through the Ancestry website, Microsoft Edge showed me that I could purchase on Amazon and skip the shipping costs!
Original Price: $99.00
Price with Microsoft Edge: $59 + Free Shipping ($9.95 value)
Savings: $49.95
Microsoft Edge Does All the Coupon Work
Ever since Extreme Couponing rocked television, I'm always on the prowl for a good discount. Usually, that can take a lot of my time––which I don't exactly have a lot of on hand right now. Luckily, I don't actually have to do anything extra to make sure I'm getting all the available coupons at my fingertips. While I was shopping, the browser automatically showed me if there was an available coupon and get this: automatically applied it for me when I checked out! Because what's worse than finding a coupon, but forgetting to use it? (Been there, done that!) Based on this awesome feature, I snagged my daughter's coveted Barbie Dream Closet Playset at Target for almost $16 off!
Original Price: $48.49
Price with Microsoft Edge: $44.99 (7% off sale price) - $11.25 (Target Circle 25% off Coupon) - $ 1 super random Microsoft Edge Coupon= $32.74
Savings: $15.75
Peace of Mind on the Best Price Possible
How many hours have I wasted pondering if should buy something, only for it to go on sale after I purchased it? Microsoft Edge, you can do all that for me now, thanks. The browser does all the nitty gritty of tracking prices, so you know if your item is at a stable price or plans to fluctuate. Based on this awesome feature, I was confident that I was getting a great price on this Snapware set my mom wanted from Costco.
Original Price: $29.99
Price with Microsoft Edge: $24.99
Savings: $5
Heads Up on Better Pricing
Wait, I don't have to visit 20 websites to find the best price, you say? I've been on the hunt for a dutch oven for my dad for months, but they are pricy! Once I started shopping on Microsoft Edge, I knew I would get the best price. I checked out the Lodge website which listed the one I was looking for for $89 (way cheaper than Le Creuset, but come on savings!). Once I was there, Microsoft Edge alerted me to the fact that Walmart had the same item for $20 cheaper! Plus, all I had to do was click the link and it took me directly to the correct website. It's like I made money with how easy it was!
Original Price: $89.00
Price with Microsoft Edge: $69.00
Savings: $20
Microsoft Edge, you are my holiday best friend. I was able to knock out a bunch of family gifts, not to mention dance teachers and a buddy gift—while staying within my budget.
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When it comes to giving gifts for the holidays in 2021, you want to give Dad something he’ll treasure . . . and use. We asked our editors what they’re giving the papas in their life, from the practical to the personal. Read on to see the unique gifts for dads they’re gifting this year.
Keep your favorite beer cold, fresh and carbonated for up to two weeks with this pressurized growler. Not only does it look good on your counter, but you can choose your desired carbonation level for optimal refreshment.
Dad can take his gaming to another level when he jumps into VR with this set. He can also immerse himself in a concert or sporting event, get moving with a fitness program and travel all over the world. Be warned: the teens are going to want to borrow it, for sure.
Dad will love all the bells and whistles that come along with this ultra-durable hoodie like the sunglasses loop, bottle opener pocket and dry pocket. Plus, the style can't be beat.
This will be a fun puzzle for the family to put together over winter break. You can feel good about giving a gift from this women-owned family business that donates a portion of proceeds to marine conservation initiatives.
Get Dad geared up for grilling with this thermometer that he can monitor via an app. It comes with an apron that any dad would be proud to wear at the grill.
Yes, there's a smaller (less-expensive) option to get these treats shipped to your home, but take our advice and go big. With flavors like Pecan Pie and The Elvis, you're going to wish you gifted this to yourself.
The holidays are filled with traditions, joy and tons of hilarious moments when you have kids. Whether you’re already worn out from winter break or if you’re just trying to keep up with that dang Elf on the Shelf, there are plenty of Twitter parents sharing in the same Christmas magic. Keep reading to see some of our fave tweets about surviving the holidays with kids.
1. Have kids, they said.
Let’s get married and have kids so instead of enjoying a glass of wine and a movie you can watch Peppa’s Christmas for the 86th time while I go outside and figure out why the giant inflatable Santa isn’t blowing up.
As a parent I love this time of year: listening to the kids write their letters to Santa, watching Christmas films, going out and choosing a Christmas tree, and going into the attic to get all the decorations so I can just sit up there in peace for about half an hour
Have kids so that instead of real gifts you can give friends and family novelty photo items with pictures of your children they saw on social media 6 months ago.
I was trying to yell at one of my kids but I forgot her name. I actually forgot all of my kids names, so I just started yelling reindeer names until she looked at me and I told her to stop rolling her grapes down the slide.
