Parents may be feeling stretched too thin worrying over camp being cancelled and an unknown plan for the school year. Starting today, “Camp Panera” is here to give parents a break, offering free kids’ entertainment, and for 2,500 lucky parents, gift cards for a kids meal to take one item off their ‘to-do’ list. Panera has partnered with lovable kids’ band Koo Koo Kanga Roo on an interactive variety show to provide a virtual camp experience.
“We understand how tough it is for parents this year, and we empathize with those that are taking on so many roles, from camp counselor to cafeteria cook, so we wanted to find a way to help,” said Eduardo Luz, Chief Brand and Concept Officer for Panera Bread. “That’s why we created Camp Panera, to take making lunch and entertaining the kids off of parents’ plates—even for just a half-hour. It’s another expression of our Panera Warmth – a way to show parents we’re here for them.”
Starting today, anyone can visit www.PaneraBread.com/CampPanera to tune into the Camp Panera virtual camp experience with Koo Koo Kanga Roo.
Koo Koo Kanga Roo members Bryan and Neil are taking on the role of Panera Camp counselors and hosting a variety show for families to sing and dance along. The band has a long history of being Panera fans, releasing the album “Fast Casual” in 2018, entirely inspired by Panera and featuring songs including Bread Bowl, U Pick 2 and more.
At Panera, on top of favorites like Mac & Cheese, Grilled Cheese and Broccoli Cheddar soup, kids can choose almost any item on the Panera menu as a smaller sized entree, resulting in nearly 180 menu combinations. Panera’s menu is full of freshly-prepared offerings parents can trust to be free from artificial flavors, preservatives, sweeteners or colors from artificial sources as defined on Panera’s No No List.
As an American ex-pat I’ve often joked about living in the future and being 13-14 hours ahead of my parents in New Orleans, we pretty much are. But now I’m truly seeing what it’s like to be ahead in time as the U.S. begins to face what we’ve been living with for weeks. Yes, I’m talking about the new Big C: COVID-19.
I’ve been pretty quiet about the pandemic on social media, choosing to focus on my virtual 5K, silly memes, and thoughtful quotes. For one, it seemed enough people were speaking up already and if I said my piece, would I be contributing? Would I be helping in any way? The long and short of it is absolutely not. I’m not a doctor. I don’t work for any government. I’m a wife and mother and have been for over twenty years.
I guess this makes right now my time to shine because I can speak up and tell you what certain parts of your future will probably look like. While I certainly don’t have all the answers, I have practical knowledge on some things, and if I can offer reassurance in any way, make suggestions that can lessen what you feel weighs heaviest on you, then I’m glad to do my part.
At the end of February when the Prime Minister of Japan requested all schools across the nation close through the end of March, asking people to work remotely, you would have thought the end was nigh. It’s a now-familiar scene to you all, you’re experiencing it currently.
But it didn’t take long for things to settle. After the initial few days, the hoarding craze dissipated. The city grew much quieter, subways grew emptier, festivals and celebrations were canceled. In Japan, encouraged (not enforced) social distancing was put into effect, so I understand what you are seeing, what you are hearing, what you are experiencing. Like grocery shopping, several areas of life have returned with a sense of normalcy, and we’ve been checking on one another, maintaining support, but continuing to be considerate in our day to day.
Oh yes, we’re also still washing the heck out of our hands.
You will get there, too. By nature, the Japanese are a community-minded people, so it’s not terribly surprising that gradually the rest of us also picked up on that calm, remembering we are also a part of that community even if it’s for a brief time. But it was an important reminder that no matter where we are in this world we take care of one another by thinking of one another.
We’ve been doing that in different ways, and it began before our children’s DLP’s (distance learning plans) started. This is a big one and I empathize. With schools closing this will have its challenging moments. Single parents, environments where both parents work, children of varying ages, no one has a monopoly on who it’s going to affect hardest because it will affect everyone. It will test you. Thankfully, over this past week, we’ve seen a blessing of sources that are online and whether your school has a DLP in place or not, this is fantastic! Virtual museum explorations, art programs, online orchestral and operatic performances. The arts are being kept alive! Check out this link for many amazing virtual museum tours. It’s a great way to explore the world from the comfort of your home.
For academics, sites like Khan Academy, Prodigy, Explore Learning, and Zearn have been used in the classroom for years and are still encouraged with distance learning. But don’t forget one of the best classrooms, the outdoors! Get your children (and yourself) outside to work off some of that energy. Clear your mind, reset your body, have dance parties, do YouTube workouts. Your physical and mental health are important, and even 10 minutes outside in the fresh air or in a room by yourself will do wonders.
And now a gentle reminder from your friendly neighborhood ex-pat.
Remember to step away from the news and Facebook. Turn them off and do something nurturing instead. Let’s see fewer pictures of empty shelves and more gestures from full hearts. There is frustration and worry in a time like this, there is heartbreak as well, but if allow yourself to consider it, there are also blessings in disguise. We are being given time that normally isn’t afforded. In a safe manner (yep, I’m throwing that very effective social distancing at you again) many of us now have the opportunity to reconnect with family, catch up with friends, moments to share with our children that may have been otherwise missed. We are being forced to slow down.
Initial panic is beginning to give way to community consideration and thoughtful conversation, virtual hands are sharing recipes and pictures of family breakfasts. Netflix recommendations are being suggested, books we’ve put aside are being read, games we’ve had on shelves are being played, and the glorious music from the balconies of Italy are filling our feeds. This is not a request that you forget what’s happening outside, but more that you don’t overlook what’s happening inside either.
From the bottom of my heart, I feel for what you are going through. My prayers are constant but my hopes remain high. I’ve seen glimpses of everyday normalcy, a slow but steady return. We’re not there yet, there’s still a way to go, but every morning it feels just a little closer. I’ll take that and breakfast with my family. Let’s use this time to savor the good and learn from the things we want to change. With level heads, compassionate hearts, and a little time, corners will be turned. I feel confident about this.
Elizabeth has traveld and lived around the globe with her family of four, but no matter where they are their ties to the South follow. She is celebrating their last year in California as they transition back to Japan, and hopes you'll enjoy their day to day, sharing recipes, traditions, travels, and family anecdotes.
I had heard about mom guilt. My first encounter with it was interviewing for a nanny job at the age of 22 where I tried to empathize with the mom as a young adult, and not an ounce of mom experience. I had no grasp of the weight of what she was saying until I too became a mom and my guilt started dragging me down.
As a stay at home mom, I certainly may not experience mom guilt in the working-mom sense brought on by the fear of missing milestones, not being able to kiss every boo-boo, or missing the tickles and giggles that fill each day but I have guilt and it comes from a very different place. As a stay at home mom, I am lonely, anxious, and well…bored. The daily anxiety of needing to do more, contribute more, and feel important fills my mind. Trust me, I know what you are thinking! Being a mom and raising good humans is beyond important and totally checks all the above-mentioned criteria. But knowing this does not take away the monotony of the job. So, I feel guilty as hell! I am a child specialist for crying out loud, so what gives?
Before I had kids, I had a prestigious job of running private early education facilities and loved it. I worked hard to put myself through college and grad school while being a full-time teacher’s assistant and then climbed the ladder to Director. It made me feel important and the continuous dialogue with colleagues and peers was mentally stimulating.
So when I embarked on the motherhood journey, I found it exciting and all-encompassing, and I jumped in with both feet the minute my baby was a ball of cells in my womb. My old life, as I knew it, was a distant memory. This continued for a while, but slowly the anxiety coupled with the monotony of the day-to-day began to buzz in my mind like a trapped summer fly in the house. Every day was the same: waking up, making breakfast, packing lunch, school drop off, park times, play dates, snacks, cleaning up, storytimes, building Legos, playing dolls, cooking dinner. The list went on and on of a never-ending schedule and constantly diffusing tantrums. The thoughts of wanting to leave my house, brainstorm with like-minded people, and yearning to be involved in something exciting crept in, and then the guilt began to build.
A terrible feeling of mom guilt sat with me like acid reflux after a fast-food binge. I felt guilty for wanting more. I felt guilty looking for jobs and going on interviews, to only talk myself out of actually taking positions when it came time to assess the childcare logistics; which in turn made me feel even more trapped.
Then one day, after some heavy in-and-exhales, I decided to give myself a mental break. The realization that I can love my kids just as much as a stay at home mom and still have a life outside of them was freeing. Wanting more is okay. Going back to work is okay. Utilizing some of the “ it takes a village” we desperately need to raise our kids is okay.
To all the stay at home moms, who are struggling with staying at home, I get it. You are not alone. We all know that you love your children. We all know you are grateful for your children. We all know there is nothing you love more than your children. With all that, we also know to stay at home is isolating and lonely, so it’s okay if at some point you are ready to do something that isn’t staying at home with the kids.
Hello! My name is Brittany and I am the creator of Mama Bear Britt! I am a child development specialist, former preschool director and mama of two littles. I am working hard to create a place for parents to gather, learn and share. Join my tribe!
Days as a parent bounce between counting the days until your child is moved out to clinging to every precious moment you can. We all dread the thought of our kids no longer needing us. But when does that day finally arrive? Here are 10 bittersweet signs your little one may not need you as much as they used to.
1. They Apologize Sincerely
There are many benefits to apologizing. A sign of maturity is losing the need to always be right. Being comfortable with admitting that they were wrong means they have the wisdom to know that no one can always be right.
2. They Take Care of Their Own Appointments
Possibly the simplest of cues letting you know your child has matured is that they make and follow through with appointments on their own. This simple gesture shows they can think ahead, make preparations for themselves and stick to a plan.
3. They’re Developing Themselves
Educating your children is one of the most important duties that a parent has. Your child acquiring the ability to teach themselves new skills and knowledge without feeling encumbered with stress is a positive step to self-sufficiency.
4. They Can Take the Blame
Every parent has seen their child quickly try to shove off the blame somewhere else to save their own neck. Growing out of this habit and acquiring the ability to take responsibility head-on is a firm step into adulthood.
5. They Can Stick to a Budget
The ability to make and stick to a budget is an essential skill every adult must learn in order to care for themselves. Your child displaying these skills means they’re moving in the right direction towards financial stability.
6. They Show Some Grit
The world can be a tough place. Being an adult means you no longer sit around and wait for things to be handed to you. Showing the resolve, courage, and strength of character to get what they want themselves is a strong sign they can make it on their own.
7. They Can Cook
In a world of Doordash and Uber Eats it’s all too easy for young adults to pass on this skill, but ordering the easy way out isn’t always going to be an option. Knowing basic cooking skills is another hint that your child is ready to be a full-fledged adult.
8. They Ask for Help
Although this one may seem counterintuitive – adulthood isn’t always about being independent. Realizing others may know more than you and not being afraid to utilize their skills is a trait that can help your child succeed when they feel lost.
9. They Empathize
Empathy is a fundamental part of human interaction that can help your child succeed socially and in the workplace. Shedding their self-centered ways is a powerful hint that they’re growing into an emotionally mature person.
10. They Help You More Than You Help Them
Parents are often familiar with the random phone calls asking for help from how to start the washing machine to how many minutes they should let the pasta boil. There may come a time where this dynamic shifts and you find yourself making the calls for help with your new iPad or yard work you just don’t have the energy for. This change is the biggest sign that they’ve grown into a caring an independent person.
Whether dreaded or welcomed, there comes a time when your child will no longer need you in the same way they used to. One important thing to remember in this journey is that these signs of development in your child’s life don’t indicate your redundancy but instead represent your success as a parent.
My name's Vicky and I have a beautiful four-year-old son named Paul who just started preschool. When I'm not being a mother, I practice tennis and play with my corgi, Milo.
Social skills are skills that involve everything social—which encompasses a lot more than you might think! In order to make friends kids need to be able to initiate appropriate interactions and conversation, and then maintain those interactions and conversation. They also need to be able to maintain relationships, which means they must be able to empathize with others, problem solve, and react appropriately to negative situations. Social skills are really important because kids need friends. Children who have difficulty with social skills may feel lonely and isolated at school, and these are not fun feelings for anyone to have. If you feel your child has a true social skills deficit, you should seek professional help. In most cases, group activities are a great way to promote social skills development.
And while any group activity will involve some degree of social skills, there are activities that will provide more opportunities for social interaction than others. And because practicing any skill is important, the more opportunities your child has to practice social skills within a class the better.
Team Sports
This category is broad and includes classes that are not organized sports but involve teams of children working towards a common goal. When a team is working towards a common goal they must interact in order to do so successfully. Even if your child is on the quieter side, she must be observant of her teammates and interact with others in order to participate in the activity. Observing other children interact is a good way for children who have difficulty with social skills learn more about what appropriate social interactions look like among their peers, which can help improve their skills even when they were not a direct part of the interaction.
Creative Classes
When choosing a creative class for your child, you may want to take your child’s personality into consideration. Depending on how your child reacts in certain situations you may want to choose a creative activity she has a lot of experience in or one that is completely new. For example, if your child tends to be shy and easily embarrassed, you probably don’t want to sign her up for an activity she’s never done before, because it is likely to make her feel incompetent which will not put her in the mood to interact with others. However, if your child is the kind who tends to dominate social situations and enjoys showing off, giving her the opportunity to try a new activity that she is not likely to be the “best” at may set her up for more success socially during the class. Regardless of which creative activity you pick and why, creative activities provide good opportunities to practice social skills, especially when children are working in close proximity to each other. Creative activities tend to be very relaxing for children and can help children come out of their shells, which opens the door for a lot of opportunities for practicing social skills. Additionally, creative activities tend to have quieter environments than team sports which will allow your child to focus more on interaction in a less stressful way.
Because children who have difficulty with social skills will benefit from not only initiating but also maintaining relationships, you should consider signing your child up for a series of classes, rather than a drop in class, where she will get the opportunity to spend time with the same group of kids every week. Luckily for your child, and you, you can do so quickly and easily through GoBambino!
GoBambino helps parents discover and book kids' activities, lessons, classes, camps and workshops. Stress-free and commitment-free. We built GoBambino to simplify (ever-so-slightly) the chaotic lives of today’s moms and dads.
With summer coming to a close and school starting up, it’s the time of year you’re likely seeing more of your fellow moms. Whether it’s at a PTA meeting or a playground, a little compliment from a fellow mama can make your day (or even your year!). Scroll down for a few of encouraging words to try out and put a smile on another mom’s face because you know she needs it.
This might sound like a general or benign comment, but when you think about how hard moms work to make sure their kids are happy, healthy and good citizens, it actually means the world to be acknowledged as a great mom!
2. You deserve it.
Whether it’s 5 minutes alone with your phone and a cup of coffee or an hour at the gym, mom guilt often keeps us from doing what is best for ourselves (and our bodies). Mamas, the message is loud and clear: you deserve it! The time you dedicate to yourself will make you a better mom overall, and no one can complain about that. And remember, massages should be viewed as routine, preventative care, not an indulgence (just sayin…).
3. I get it.
Letting a fellow mom know that not only do you understand what she is going through, you empathize. It doesn’t matter if it’s a kid throwing a tantrum or listening to a mom vent about the work-life balance: moms just want to be understood and acknowledged that the struggle is real.
Find that weepy-eyed kindergarten mom who just dropped her sweetie off for the first.time.ever. in big-kid school and give her a big, giant hug. It’s okay to leave, as hard as it can be.
5. This is totally worth it.
All the shuttling, juggling, guilt, stress and endless hours of joy, laughter, and silliness: it’s all worth it. You are raising an amazing person, doing the best you can, and it is worth it.
When your kid is reverting back to toddler-like tantrums at the age of 8, nothing will make you feel better or more normal than hearing another parent say, “My kids do that too!” Commiserating with other moms can help you feel less alone and like you can actually handle whatever comes your way.
7. You look great today!
If you notice another mom’s new haircut or stylish shoes, say something! Moms tend to put themselves last on the “getting ready” train, especially during hectic mornings so anytime we get a compliment about looking even moderately put together, that’s a big win.
8. Trust your gut.
When we’re faced with big choices (or sometimes even medium-sized ones) we moms have all felt that instinctive answer to whatever decisions we are trying to make: it’s called your mom gut and we’re not talking about the one you keep hoping will “go away” when you keep up your Pilates. No one will encourage you to trust that instinct more than another mom, and nobody will give you props for doing like your mom tribe, either. When you know, you know.
What do you want to say to other moms? Comment below!
When it comes down to getting more bang for your buck, one of San Diego’s Top Mom Bloggers, Kate Hamernik knows all the best places to go in San Diego and shares all the awesome spots on her blog, San Diego Deals and Steals. SDDS has everything from the best places to get frozen yogurt down to the free days at the best museums. We had a chance to catch up with Kate and talk about kids, motherhood and her family favorites in San Diego.
What is your favorite pearl of wisdom for a frazzled new mom to find her happiness? One of the best pieces of advice I can give to our friends when a new baby enters their family is just to understand everything goes SO fast. Sometimes new moms get overwhelmed by each stage and never get the chance to really enjoy those special stages before they are on to the next one. I think it is important to remind new moms that those overwhelming moments do not last forever, they are only a season that will be gone too soon. I remember being so exhausted with our new babies, but I look at a teensie newborn and miss that tiny stage where they just curl up in a tiny ball on your chest. Take too many pictures, sleep when you can, give yourself a break when it comes to the laundry, and just enjoy every stage as much as you can. Drinking in the positive will get you through the challenges.
What’s the best thing about living in your neighborhood?
Our neighborhood is AWESOME! We live in North County and it is perfect for our stage of life. We live within walking distance of a couple great parks, and we can drive to several more in a matter of minutes. Our kids love the local ‘spray grounds’ and our library has awesome story times and craft days! We are close enough to enjoy a walk on the beach or an afternoon at the San Diego Safari Park (passes are such a great deal!). We have found that we can really have so much fun without spending a lot of money. We feel so fortunate to live in San Diego!
Where do you shop for your kids clothes?
I am a little bit addicted to kids clothes. With three kiddos, I could go broke with my obsession! I shop at a lot of different stores, but my hands down favorite store is Spin Again in Encinitas. Spin Again is an awesome store for kids 2T through teens. They have great new items, but they also have the BEST resale clothing! They have awesome prices on boutique, name brand, and surf clothing. They are very particular about what they will sell – so you know everything is in great shape. I have bought my daughter some of the sweetest Gymboree, Roxy, and other name brand dresses at a fraction of the cost! My son has Quicksilver, Diesel, and Hurley items that we get so many compliments on. I have even bought myself designer jeans from their teen section! I like that we can sell our name brand clothing that is in good condition to Spin Again too!
Where do you like to catch a bite with the little ones in tow?
We honestly don’t get out too much with our little ones. When we do, we really enjoy going to Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza. We often share a pizza and a nice salad. We like the fresh ingredients and the casual environment. Our kids are willing to try new food if it is in pizza form! The big kids actually really love salad and they have fun combinations that are really healthy. If it is a special occasion we sometimes share one of their big desserts too.
What’s your favorite “escape hatch”—a way to put in some “me” time to recharge?
Haha! ‘Me time’? What is that?! If I can go grocery shopping by myself I consider myself very lucky! Just kidding! Kind of. In all seriousness though, I have found that writing and organizing my blog is a great way to recharge. I love that I have a little something that is mine. Don’t get me wrong, my family is my life. My husband, and my kids are precious and seriously all I live for. But I think a lot of moms can empathize with how tired I am! Taking care of an infant, shuffling big kids around to their various activities, helping with homework, breaking up arguments, and debating what is ‘fair’ and ‘not fair’, I just really like having a little something that is mine.
Some people love camping. Even with kids. For others it’s more of a challenge. We completely empathize with Rob Wolf (who some of you may know as the producer of That Baby DVD) for his camping mishap. Rob, thanks for the laugh.
