ML Interest Tag: go-green

15 Reasons Chicago Makes the Perfect Family Vacation Destination

by Leah R. Singer
Partner Content

Every family needs to visit the Windy City at least once as a vacation destination. From Navy Pier to Wrigley Field, Chicago has so many amazing hotels, shops and fun activities that will keep your family entertained for days. Bonus: we found a few awesome hotels to make your travel easy and fun, whether you’re looking to stay close to Uptown or want a hotel with kid-friendly amenities. With Marriott Bonvoy™, families can enjoy special rates, free in-room Wifi, mobile check in and more! Save up to 20% on your trip to Chicago with advance purchase rates. Scroll through to find three family-friendly hotels and 13 activities worth checking out.

See Chicago by Air and Water

Navy Pier

No trip to Chicago is complete without visiting Navy Pier. This city landmark offers musicals and plays, public celebrations, and public art and exhibitions. Take a ride on the the iconic Centennial Wheel and marvel at 360-degree views of Chicago and Lake Michigan. Or if your little ones aren't quite ready for the ferris wheel, they can enjoy a few rounds on the hand-painted carrousel. Check out Chicago by water on a cruise around Lake Michigan or the Chicago River. This famous spot also has tons of restaurants and shopping. And if you visit during the summer, make sure to check out the biweekly fireworks shows on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Online: navypier.org

Stand Above the City

The Skydeck

You'll feel like you're walking across the city at this iconic Chicago feature. The Skydeck Ledge is a glass balcony extending four feet outside the 103rd floor of Willis Tower, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere standing at 1,353 feet in the air. The Skydeck offers phenomenal views of Chicago and its four surrounding states. Make sure to order your viewing tickets before you visit so you don't miss this spectacular site.

Online: theskydeck.com

Stay in Downtown Chicago in Style

Westin Michigan Avenue Chicago

Stay in the heart of downtown at the Westin Michigan Avenue Chicago. This beautiful and family-friendly hotel is close to the beach, The Art Institute, Wrigley Field, steps away from Michigan Ave shopping and around the corner from American Girl Doll store.

Online: marriott.com/hotels/travel/chiwi-the-westin-michigan-avenue-chicago

Experience the Art of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago

Be prepared to spend hours in The Art Institute of Chicago, one of the world’s major museums. You can explore thousands of art pieces, from world-renowned paintings to obscure gems. Chances are, you'll recognize famous works by artists such as Andy Warhol, Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picaso, just to name a few. Kids love creating their own masterpieces in the Artist's Studio in The Family Room, which is open daily from 10:30 a.m -5 p.m. The Chicago Art Institute offers free admission for kids under 14 and Chicago teens under 18.

Online: artic.edu

Shop 'Til You Drop

The Shops at North Bridge via Yelp

If shopping is your family's go-to travel activity, you will love The Magnificent Mile on Michigan Avenue. With more than 460 shops, there is something for every member of your household, and it's all within walking distance of downtown Chicago. Kids will love the Disney Store and American Girl Place, and you won't be able to get teens out of Nike Chicago and TJMaxx. When you're ready to refuel after a day of shopping, you can enjoy delicious meals from more than 275 restaurants, featuring international cuisine or locally-sourced ingredients and flavors.

Online: themagnificentmile.com

Take a Walk on the Wild Side

Lincoln Park Zoo

Located in a Chicago suburb park and surrounded by the city skyscrapers, the Lincoln Park Zoo is like no other animal and nature sanctuary. This spot is a family-friendly space and is one of the only zoos and nature centers that is free to visit. That's right—free for kids and adults! Check out the Arctic penguins, and watch monkey, lemurs and gorillas climb trees. Don't forget to stop by the Children's Zoo to see black bears, otters, wolves and turtles. And your kiddos will love the cows, goats, pigs, ponies, chickens and rabbits in the Farm-in-the-Zoo.

Online: lpzoo.org

Revel in Wrigley Field Excitement

Hotel Zachary Chicago

If your family are sports enthusiasts and Wrigley Field is on your "must see" list, you'll love the Hotel Zachary Chicago. This hotel was inspired by and named for Wrigley Field architect and Chicago native Zachary Taylor Davis. Located across from Wrigley Field, staying here makes it easy to catch a Cubs game, eat at several local restaurants, shop nearby stores, and walk to various parks. This hotel also has tons of family-focused activities for both locals and tourists.

 

Get Lost in Space

Adler Planetarium

Get ready for an out-of-this-world adventure at the Adler Planetarium. The new Chicago Night Sky exhibition connects visitors to the city and you'll be amazed at what you discover when you look up. Check out the "Our Solar System" exhibit where kids can place their hands on a Moon rock and touch a piece of Mars. Kids will love the Community PlayLab where they transform into an astronaut and participate in science experiments in four areas of exploration—the imagination station, table-top STEAM activities, a sensory table, and a tot-spot. If you're visiting Chicago during the week, stop by the Adler Planetarium for Young Explorer Mondays where kiddos ages two through six get special programming created just for them.

Online: adlerplanetarium.org

Be Part of the Future Through the Past

Field Museum

Check out nearly 40 million artifacts from the past at the historic Field Museum. This city treasure aims to connect science with natural history. Kids can learn about dinosaurs, check out ancient artifacts and explore groundbreaking science. Make sure you save time for the Discovery Squad where you'll find hidden gems and specimens that are not on display in the museum itself. From rocks and minerals to ancient creatures, the Discovery Squad will keep kids (and adults) entertained for hours.

Online: fieldmuseum.org

Play Ball

Guru Marketing via Pixabay

Baseball fans will be in awe when they visit the historic ballpark. Watch a Chicago Cubs baseball game or attend spring training at Wrigley Field. Don't worry if you visit outside baseball season. The stadium offers tours for visitors so you can still experience the magic of Chicago baseball.

Online: mlb.com/cubs/ballpark/information

River Views Await You

Sheraton Grand Chicago

If you want to feel like you're staying at the forefront of the Windy City, you'll love the Sheraton Grand Chicago. This hotel features beautiful views of the Chicago River and Lake, and is in walking distance to Navy Pier and Riverwalk. The accommodations will leave you feeling rested and ready to tour the city.
 

Step into "Chicago's Front Yard"

12019 / 10260 images via Pixabay

Make sure to have plenty of time to spend at Grant Park and its more than 300 acres of public park. Located in Chicago’s central business district, Grant Park is home to some of the most famous Chicago sites, including Millennium Park, Maggie Daley Park and the famous Buckingham Fountain. The Park also includes baseball fields, tennis courts, gardens to stroll through, and so much more. The main attraction, Buckingham Foundation, is one of the world's largest fountains. It's open seasonally, from May to October, and showcases amazing water and light displays every 20 minutes.

Online: chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/grant-ulysses-park

Go Green

Garfield Park Conservatory

Lush greens, gorgeous views, outdoor gardens ... you'll see it all at the Garfield Park Conservatory. Key exhibits to visit include the Palm House. This room is 65-feet high, includes 70 stunning palms, and looks like you're in the tropics instead of the big city. Check out the Desert House that's full of cacti and succulents, and Aroid House that features a gorgeous indoor yellow lily pad pond. Kids will love the Elizabeth Morse Genius Children’s Garden where they can check out a giant, climbing vine with larger-than-life sized roots. They also have the chance to learn about flowers, seeds and leaves and play in a pond featuring hydroponic plants.

Online: garfieldconservatory.org

Play Like a Kid Again

Chicago Children's Museum

The Chicago Children's Museum, located in Navy Pier, has so many activities and exhibits for kids that will keep them excited for hours. Little ones can be scientists and explore the hands-on dinosaur exhibition, get creative in the art studio, or practice engineering skills in the Tinkering Lab. If kiddos want to move, the Museum has a giant treehouse to scale and three stories of ship-shape rigging to climb.

Online: chicagochildrensmuseum.org

Indulge in Deep Dish Pizza

Giordano's

A trip to Chicago isn't complete without experiencing its signature deep dish pizza. And while you'll find numerous pizza joints to choose from, Giordano's is often considered the city's best spot. With a recipe that started 200 years ago in Italy, Mama Giordano would serve this double-crusted, cheese stuffed masterpiece on special occasions. Now it's become a Chicago mainstay. With locations throughout Chicago, your family can experience this indulgence from almost any part of the city.

Online: giordanos.com

With Marriott Bonvoy™, members can enjoy special rates, free in-room Wifi, mobile check-in and the ability to earn and redeem points at Marriott’s thousands of hotels. Not a Marriott Bonvoy member? Join for free when you book! Save up to 20% on your trip to Chicago here!

—Leah R. Singer

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Want to Impact the World? Raise Helpful Kids!

By Mike Morrison

“Our greatness has always come from people who expect nothing and take nothing for granted—folks who work hard for what they have, then reach back and help others after them.” —Michelle Obama  

Raising a compassionate and helpful child is not so easy these days. The natural self-centeredness of a child’s early years combined with a culture that highlights individual achievement over collective progress means that we will have some extra work to do as parents.

As you would guess, a child’s ability to care about and help others needs to be nurtured in their early years. In fact, it is most sustainable when “helping” becomes part of family life.  

The wonderful thing about cultivating helpfulness is not only is it action-oriented, but it builds broader capabilities like compassion, kindness, and service to others. Children with a helping mindset become great friends, teammates, and co-workers. Families with helping habits strengthen the fabric that holds them together while infusing family life with new levels of meaning. The bottom line is that nothing connects us to each other like helping.

Unfortunately, these capabilities can get lost in our go-go, time-deficient worlds. Here are the five best strategies for developing helpfulness in your child and family life:   

1. Model It: Leverage the fact that our young kids want to be like us. If they see us helping a neighbor with their groceries, they will want to help too! When they see us volunteering time at their school or making time for those in need, they will naturally cultivate the same values. Smaller acts of helpfulness are a great way to start because they can be copied right away. When you share your home-grown tomatoes, let your child deliver them to your neighbor. The simple act will create powerful feelings that they will want to replicate over and over.

2. Talk About It: The dinner table is often a great place to get the discussion going. Share an inspiring story about how a friend routinely takes in stray animals and works to get them placed with great families. Talk about how your family can help out. Also, when kids hit around age four it is a great time to talk about the environment and how we can all help. Take the family recycling program to the next level by reducing waste and maybe starting a compost pile. The Lorax by Dr. Seuss is a fun read and has a friendly “go green” message for kids. 

3. Do It Together: An easy strategy is to include your little ones in things you are already doing. When you make a meal, give them a role. When you drop off clothes to charity, let them help too. Even in your daily regimen, try to find a task for them (time to bring your dirty clothes down!). The key is to slow down enough (and be patient enough) to make them a part of the things they see us doing. Be sure to thank them for helping out, but often the simple act of being included will provide its own reward.  

4. Let Them Do It: It is not surprising that young children often feel more like passengers than crew members in family life. For their early years, we have had to constantly do things for them, but we need to start including their little helping hands as they approach pre-school. Give them their own set of chores that they can feel responsible for. Make it a checklist on the refrigerator that becomes a visible reminder of much they are helping. Finally, balance the need to do’s (making their bed) with the want to do’s (feeding the family dog). 

5. Make It Rich in Rituals: Make helping feel like a rich family tradition with lots of meaningful rituals to look forward to. Here are some idea starters. Once a month help out at the local cat rescue and send pictures to friends encouraging adoption…add a visit to the ice cream after dropping off clothes at the donation center…when walking our dog, try to stop in at the local senior home and make some new friends…you get the idea. As you add and sustain these rituals, helping becomes more of who you are as a family, not just what you do.  

All five strategies are simple and can become easy-to-repeat habits if we can add a little patience and discipline to the process. We want to make helping a natural part of our lives—and make it fun too!  

It can be easy to get stuck in responding to our individual needs and lose our capacity to serve beyond ourselves. Paradoxically, when we take time to help, our own burdens shrink, and our hearts open in some powerful new ways!

Mike Morrison Ph.D.’s passion centers on developing leaders at all ages, from pre-schoolers to the corporate CEO leading a global enterprise. In today’s world, we all need to lead in some way and Mike has helped illuminate that path through three books, his most recent being Small Voice Says.

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The Scoop on Target’s New Household Essentials Brand

by Erica Loop

Earth Day may have come and gone, but that doesn’t mean you can’t continue to go green. Target recently introduced its new household essentials brand Everspring—and it’s filled with biobased, recycled and natural fiber-made products.

Keeping your kiddos safe is priority number one for you. That’s why you look for cleaning and household products that don’t come with a lengthy list of chemical ingredients. Now you have even more options! These products, which are “Target Clean” compliant, are made without phthalates or propyl-parabens.

Everspring features more than 70 cleaning and household use items. And bonus: you won’t need to dig deep into your child’s college fund just to keep your home clean and green. The products in big red bullseye retailer’s new brand sell for $2.79 to $11.99.

Senior vice president and general merchandise manager for Target, Christina Hennington said, in a press release, “Everspring is a great example of how we’re listening—and responding—to the evolving needs of our guests in a way that’s uniquely Target.” Hennington went on to add, “Guests can feel confident they’re purchasing essentials for their home that include ingredients and components they want and have the efficacy they need to get daily routines done. And, at prices nearly 20 percent less than comparable brands and a focus on fresh design, Everspring offers guests another compelling reason to stock up at Target.”

So what can you expect from Target’s new brand? The line includes dish soap, hand soap, paper towels, laundry detergent, household cleaners, candles and so much more. While keeping your family safe from the hidden toxins is a major plus, the “green” doesn’t end with what’s inside the bottle. Everspring’s product packaging is made from up to 50 percent or more recycled content.

Everspring is available now in stores and at Target.com.

—Erica Loop

Photos: Courtesy of Target

 

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30 Ways to Spend Time with Your Family in April

by Gabby Cullen

We’re all spending more time at home these days, and the good news is, there are plenty of ways to strengthen the bond between you and your kids. From creating a DIY obstacle course to taking a virtual field trip, here are 30 ways to spend time as a family this month.

Boy on Laptop, watching video, tutorial, computer learning, online learning
Andrea Piacquadio via Pexels

1. Take a virtual field trip to one of these awesome places.  

2. Work on a special project that’ll make the backyard seem extra special this summer.

3. Read one of our editor’s top picks for best books published last month.

4. Try a new meal subscription kit as a family.

5. Teach your kids about generosity. 

Amber Guetebier

6. Learn how to make a fairy garden. 

7. Get into the spring mood with a carrot or bunny craft.

8. Read a book that’ll help your kids identify bullying behavior.

9. Set up an obstacle course at home. 

10. Have a family dinner and spark the conversation with one of these questions.

11. We know you'll be spending time indoors this month, so this list of indoor activities has got you covered.

12. Explore our extensive list of homeschooling resources. 

13. Make something fun out of those extremely valuable TP rolls. 

14. Enjoy this awesome collection of incredible chalk art. 

15. Set up an art project that’s easy to clean up.  

courtesy Stephen Joseph Gifts

16. If your oldest is a preschooler, we’ve got something for you too.

17. Build an outdoor fort in your backyard.

18. Plan a trip to a National Park (for when it's safe to travel).

19. Cook a meal together.

20. Read a few feel-good news stories that will teach your kids about compassion.

iStock

21. Hike your own ‘hood.   

22. Host a family game night with another family. Check out our list of top-rated, new family board games first. 

23. April 10th is National Sibling Day. Read one of our favorite stories about brothers and sisters. 

24. Organize a treasure hunt with our own tutorial. 

25. Spend a whole afternoon doing things that don't require technology

Jelleke via Unsplash

26. Plant a summer garden. If you need a place to do so, consider an old wheelbarrow!

27. Make a butterfly mask. 

28. Learn how you and your crew can go green with little effort. 

29. Plan an evening to stargaze. We've got the perfect guide for starters here. 

30. Order take out to support a local, family-owned restaurant. 

—Gabby Cullen & Amber Guetebier

Featured image: Gustavo Fring via Pexels 

 

RELATED STORIES:

16 Friday Night Family Traditions to Try This Spring

30 Ways to Have Fun With Your Kids This Spring!

6 Easy Ways to Spend More Time Together As a Family

 

 

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The Best Locations for Spring Photos

by Annette Benedetti

Spring time in Portland is dazzling! With a rainbow of colors cast by a large array of flowers, bright green grasses, and an ever-changing skyscape that is as moody as your toddler, this time of year is perfect for capturing dramatic images of your loved ones. Whether you use pics for Instagram, holiday cards or to decorate your home, we’ve put together a list of the best places to head for your next family photo session. Read on to find out where your next shots should be taken.

photo: Noel via flickr

Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival

Open from Mar.23-Apr. 30, this festival gives your family access to 40 acres of blooming beauty. Is there really anything better than a backdrop filled with row after row of flowers and Mt. Hood in the distance? Every year the owners arrange their varieties of tulips, daffodils and other flowers differently to create new patterns of colors for your camera to capture along with the smiling faces of your wee ones. But the flowers aren’t the only setting for your family photo session.

For a fun shot, put your little on the cow train or search out the photo cut-out boards for loads of giggles and great snaps. The festival even hosts a photo contest, so your pics could really pay off!

Check out our guide to the festival to learn more.

Details

Cost: $40 for a season pass, $5 per person ages 13 and up. Family car is $20 for one day. Additional activities include additional pricing.
Address: 33814 S Meridian Rd, Woodburn, Or
Dates: Mar. 23-Apr. 30.
Online: woodenshoe.com

Leach Botanical Gardens

Referred to as the crown jewel of public park spaces in Southeast Portland, this garden has grown to nearly 17 acres and features a diverse collection of over 2,000 hybrids, cultivars, and native and non-native plants that serve as a perfect environment for your outdoor shoot. If you are looking to go green, this is the place. And in April you’ll find trillium, phlox, arisaema (Jack-in-the-pulpit); erythronium (fawn lily), dodecatheon (shooting star) and western flowering dogwood for the perfect flash of color. There are plenty of trails to wander on while trying to find your perfect spot. Search for the stone cabin for a fun adventure with a fresh approach to your framing. Or find the blue dinosaur to add some adventure. Don’t forget to bring snacks to help you sustain your day full of fun.

Insider tip: You can download the Leach Garden scavenger hunt ahead of time to keep the little ones occupied and eager to hunt down that perfect photo spot.

6704 SE 122nd Ave.
Portland
Hours: Tues.-Sat., 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Sun., 1-4 p.m. Closed Mon.
Cost: Free. Donations encouraged.
Online: leachgarden.org

photo: Matthewzumwalt via Flickr

Camassia Natural Area

Sculpted by prehistoric floods, this area’s rocky landscape is the surprising home to an array of sunning flowers. Located in the hills of West Linn, above the Clackamas and Willamette this 26-acre natural area is owned and maintained by the Nature Conservancy and during spring and summer and volunteers lead guided hikes and teach visitors about the ecology of the preserve. During April and May flowers burst into bloom and provide a striking contrast to the dark basal bedrock and green mosses. You are sure to get some standout shots. Hiking through the area also gives you the opportunity to get snaps of your kids or yourself in the midst of more than 300 plant species. Your little models might even learn something along the way.

5000 Walnut St.,
West Linn, Or.
Hours: No set hours but morning light is wondrous for photos.
Cost: Free
Online: nature.org

Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden

With simple to splashy waterfalls, rocks from Mt Hood and Mt Adams, a towering fountain, over 2500 species rhododendrons and azaleas plus other gorgeous flowers and trees you couldn’t find a more magical place to create memories. The flowers make a magnificent display of colors for family photo shoots and Crystal Springs Creek flows along the westside of the garden. The manicured areas offer awesome opportunities for a variety of portrait settings which can include small lakes, paved and unpaved paths, fountains and waterfalls.

5801 SE 28th Ave.
Portland
Hours: 6 a.m.-6 p.m. through Mar. 31, open until 10 p.m. beginning Apr. 1
Cost: $4 admission fee is charged from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Wed.-Mon., March through Labor Day, but it is free for children under 12.
Online: portlandoregon.gov/parks

photo: Jessica Tutton via Flickr

Portland Japanese Garden

The beauty of Portland’s Japanese garden is undeniable. Portland’s own Japanese garden is considered one of the best in the world and offers  tranquil environment for family members young and old to enjoy. This garden has been designed to give its visitors a real taste of what the seasons are like in Japan. There are five garden styles over the 5.5 acre area for you to and your kids to explore through the lens including the Tea Garden, Strolling Pond Garden, Natural Garden, Sand & Stone Garden and the Flat Garden.

It’s not hard to find a perfect place to stop for shots as you run across cascading water features, a chabana garden and a bonsai terrace. Expect to see cherry blossoms in April along with azaleas. If you are wanting to capture the garden at it’s most colorful, it is recommended to  wait for mid-May when other plants like wisteria and rhododendrons come into bloom. But, it’s no stretch to say that the Portland Japanese Garden is beautiful all year round.

611 SW Kingston Ave.,
Portland
Hours: Mon. 12-7p.m.; Tue.-Sun.10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Cost:  $16.95/adult, $14.95 /senior (65+), $13.50/college student (w/ID), $11.55/ Youth (6-17), children 5 and under free
Online: japanesegarden.com

The Oregon Garden

Located in Silvertion this beautiful space has over 23 different gardens for you and your little beauties to explore. With areas that feature ponds and sculptures, oak groves and even a hobbit hole, there are plenty of great shots to be had. Your kids will love looking for wildlife and pretending like they are forest gnomes. It makes for an easy way to while away a whole day while getting print-worthy images for your home your to send off to your loved ones.

879 W. Main St.
Silverton
Hours: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. until Mar. 23- Apr., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. May-Sept.
503-874-8100
Cost: Starting at $8
Online: Oregongarden.org

 

Do you have a favorite spring spot for family photos? Share it with us  in the comments!

—Annette Benedetti

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Healthy 3-Ingredient Recipes the Kids Will Actually Eat

by Anna Doogan
Partner Content

Between dance classes and soccer practice shuttling, getting a healthy and quick dinner on the table during the week can be a tricky task. Relax, because we’ve got you covered with a handful of easy dinner recipes that are super delicious and literally as easy as 1-2-3. Check out these 3-ingredient quick dinner recipes that are sure to become your new favorites.

This article is sponsored by Misfits Market—the grocery delivery service dedicated to making affordable, high-quality food more accessible while helping break the cycle of food waste. Misfits Market works directly with farmers and makers to rescue organic produce and other grocery items that might otherwise go to waste, then deliver them to your door—all at prices up to 40% less than the grocery store. Every Misfits Market box you order benefits farmers, helps prevent food waste and saves your family money.

Slow Cooker Portobello Chicken

Cutefetti

This earthy, creamy portobello chicken recipe from Dawn at Cutefetti gives big flavors using just a few items. Plus, it simmers in a slow cooker, meaning you can just toss the ingredients in and walk away. When your family’s hungry, it’ll be ready to go. Talk about easy!

Tomato Tortellini Soup

Honey and Birch

With three ingredients, one pot, major kid appeal and minimal prep time, this is the kind of recipe that makes parents happy. 3-Ingredient Tomato-Tortellini Soup from Jenny B at Honey and Birch is the kind of kitchen magic you’ll want to have up your sleeve for those busy nights or anytime at all.

Wild Rice Sausage Kale Bowl

Family Food on the Table

Go green with this gorgeous Wild Rice Sausage Kale Bowl from Kathryn at Family Food on the Table. Seasoned sausage, tasty rice and a vibrant veggie come together for a quick and comforting dinner that’s nutritious and simple. Need more ideas? Kathryn’s Gnocchi with Chicken Sausage and Spinach is another 3-ingredient dinner winner.

Creamy Tomato Shells

Pinch of Yum

For a super creamy pasta without the dairy, check out these tomato shells from Lindsay at Pinch of Yum. This meal whips up in no time, with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. You won’t even miss the cheese!

 

Maple-Mustard Baked Salmon

For the Love of Cooking

Fresh salmon and a sweet and tangy marinade pair up perfectly in this recipe from Pam at For the Love of Cooking. Even on a busy night, you can pull off this dinner that’s sure to please even the most particular little palates.

 

Stuffed Flank Steak Pinwheels

The Weary Chef

These tasty steak pinwheels may look fancy, but they couldn’t be simpler. This recipe from Andi at The Weary Chef has something for everyone. Kids will love the fun shape, and you’ll love the addition of healthy green spinach. Win-win.

Salsa Verde Chicken

What Great Grandma Ate

Make a big batch of this yummy salsa verde chicken, and you’ve got countless meal possibilities for the days ahead. Toss it over rice, stuff a quesadilla or enjoy it on its own. Jean of What Great Grandma Ate created this super simple and crave-worthy recipe that will give you a jump start on the week’s meal prep.

Easy Beef Stew

NerdyMamma

Fast, hearty and packed with veggies, this Easy Peasy Beef Stew by NerdyMamma comes together in under twenty minutes and is a total kid-pleaser. Add some bread and a fresh salad on the side, and dinner is done!

3-Ingredient Tilapia Skillet

Primavera Kitchen

Even if you only have 30 minutes, you can get this one done. This simple tilapia skillet from Olivia at Primavera Kitchen is quick, flavorful and a great way to introduce kids to fish. Tomatoes add a fresh pop of color and a boost of Vitamin C.

3-Ingredient Chicken Parmesan

The Nutritionist Reviews

Cheesy chicken parmesan with just three ingredients? Yes, it’s totally possible, and it’s about to join your dinner rotation. Amanda of The Nutritionist Reviews created this recipe that will become your new weeknight go-to.

 

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Sara via Bitz N Giggles

Ok, so technically, this recipe has 5 ingredients, but it gets dinner on the table in under 20 minutes, so that's a huge win for us. Sara from Bitz N Giggles takes you step by step through this refreshing twist on your average chicken tenders. Get the recipe here. 

3 Ingredient Pesto Gnocchi

Cathleen via A Taste of Madness

Did you know that you can sauté gnocchi in a pan without boiling them? We didn't either, until Cathleen from A Taste of Madness posted this deliciously simple recipe. Feel free to make it your own once you make her recipe.  

 

 

What’s your favorite 3-ingredient meal for busy nights? Will you try any of our recipes? Let us know in the comments below!

—Anna Doogan

 

Healthy 3-Ingredient Recipes the Kids Will Actually Eat

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30-Minute Dinners That Are Insanely Easy

by Anna Doogan

If you’re anything like us, you’re always on the hunt for quick dinner ideas to make busy weeknights a little bit easier. We’ve rounded up our favorite healthy 30-minute meals that are guaranteed to please everyone at your table, from a unique take on pizza to a lightning-fast stir-fry. Just scroll down for all the details.

Mini Egg Pizzas

Instead of ordering a pizza, go for this healthier version that comes together in just 15 minutes. Use naan bread or a flatbread for the crust, then top it with your favorite veggies. An egg cracked on top gives it a nice protein boost. To get the recipe, click here.

Garlicky Peanut Soba Noodles with Roasted Broccoli

My Kitchen Love

With a few pantry ingredients and a bunch of broccoli, you’ll have this tasty meal on the table in no time. We love the tangy, sweet peanut sauce, and even veggie haters will be seduced by the crispy roasted broccoli. Click here to see the recipe from My Kitchen Love.

Sneaky One-Pot Mexican Pasta

Siriously Delicious

This recipe from Siri Daly is a win for picky eaters—they won’t even realize they’re eating veggies, thanks to a sneaky squash puree. The dish is rounded out with ground turkey, taco seasoning and plenty of cheese. Get all the details by clicking here.

Beef Stir-Fry

The Leaner Approach

It doesn’t get much easier (or more delicious) than this stir-fry from The Leaner Approach. Just be sure to prep and chop all your ingredients before you start cooking because things move fast once you start sautéing. Click here to grab the recipe.

Crispy Parmesan Crusted Fish

alanagkelly via flickr

White fish fillets cook up in no time at all, which is why we love this parmesan crusted fish from !Hola! Jalapeño for an easy weeknight dish. Pair it with steamed green beans or pasta to round out the meal. To get the recipe, click here.

Baked Ravioli

Foodista via flickr

Take your pasta dinner to the next level with this recipe from Laughter and Grace. Refrigerated ravioli is paired with a meaty spaghetti sauce, then it’s all covered with cheese and baked. To grab the recipe, click here.

Thai Basil Pork

Lara Ferroni

It’ll be love at first bite with this delish Thai-inspired dish by Patricia Tanumihardja. If you’re not a fan of pork, you can sub in whatever your family prefers, from ground turkey to scallops to salmon. You can also throw in frozen veggies to make it a complete meal—delish! Click here to see the recipe.

Southwestern Black Bean Salad

Cookie Monster Cooking

Brighten up your dinner table with this filling salad from Cookie Monster Cooking. It’s filled with fresh corn, hearty black beans, savory queso fresco and a tangy dressing. Drooling yet? Get the recipe by clicking here.

Salmon Cakes with Lemon Green Beans

Catherine Bulinski via flickr

What’s not to love about these delicious salmon cakes from Momma Cuisine? They’re filled with crunchy breadcrumbs, hearty salmon and red pepper for crunch, and they cook up in less than 10 minutes. Pair them with lemony green beans for a well-rounded meal. Click here to snag the recipe.

Red Pepper & Broccoli Frittata

Jen Silverstein/Red Tricycle

Keep it simple but delicious with a hearty frittata filled with veggies and cheese. The good news: if you end up with leftovers, it tastes just as great (if not better) the next day. To get the recipe, click here.

Quesadilla Pie

Alice Seba via flickr

This quesadilla pie from Dash is comfort food at its finest: shredded chicken is layered with tortillas, chunky salsa, sour cream and cheddar cheese. To get the details on how it’s done, click here.

Chicken Pesto Pasta

pesto chicken pasta is a kid friendly pasta recipe
Leelalicious

Go green with this simple recipe from Regina at Leelalicious. With chicken, pasta and pesto, you’ve got a filling meal that you can whip up in 20 minutes, and dinner is done! Grab the recipe right here.

Quick and Easy Skillet Lasagna

 Our Family Eats

Lasagna in 30 minutes? Yes, it’s totally possible! This skillet version saves you time but doesn’t hold back on flavor. Our Family Eats has the recipe that’s soon to be one of your favorites. Get the full recipe here.

Pasta with Peas and Bacon

cyclone bill via flickr

Go back to basics with a tried-and-true, kid-approved recipe. For those nights when the tots are fussing and the clock is ticking, you can’t go wrong with this 30-minute meal. To see the full recipe, click here.

Pork Tenderloin with Lemon Garlic Sauce

Timothy Vollmer via Flickr

If you need a hearty entrée that will satisfy your crew in a hurry, look no further than this juicy pork tenderloin with a bright lemony sauce. Just add a veggie and rice, and you’re all set! You can find the recipe right here.

Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry

Chef Savvy

The next time you’re craving Thai food, skip the takeout and try this easy Thai basil chicken stir-fry recipe from Chef Savvy. Add steamed rice and you’ve got a restaurant-worthy dinner in 30 minutes. Click here to get the recipe.

Go-To Stir Fry

honey garlic chicken broccoli stir fry
Kari of Get Inspired Everyday

Thank goodness for stir fry! This dish not only features a good amount of broccoli, but it also has sweet and savory flavors that are better than any takeout options. Did we mention it only takes 30 minutes to make? Get the recipe from Get Inspired Everyday.

Pan-Roasted Chicken and Shallots

FoodNetwork.com

This chicken recipe is super simple, but fragrant shallots and rosemary make your kitchen smell like you’ve been cooking away all day! This amazing dinner from The Food Network just made your weeknights a little bit easier. To make it yourself, click here.

Filet of Sole à la Meunière

Robert Rosenthal

Fish dinner on a busy weeknight? It can be done! Pass on the fish sticks and serve your family these sole filets with a delish brown butter sauce. Robert Rosenthal, author of Short Order Dad: One Guy’s Guide to Making Food Fun and Hassle-Free has you covered. To get his recipe, click here.

Vegetarian Lettuce Wraps

Well Plated

Tofu and mushrooms replace the meat in this quick vegetarian version of lettuce wraps. With a sweet and tangy sauce and cool, crisp lettuce leaves, these wraps come together in a snap for a fast dinner. Get the recipe from Well Plated right here.

Tuscan-Style Sausage Soup

Prevention RD

Great news! This recipe from Prevention RD uses ingredients you probably have on hand. Plus, there’s a healthy twist: low-sodium chicken broth, whole wheat pasta, and lots of adaptability if you want to add your fave veggies. Get the recipe here.

—Anna Doogan & Susie Foresman

 

 

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10 Face Painting Ideas That Are Totally Doable

by Jennifer Massoni Pardini

With Halloween around the corner, your little ones may still be deciding … dragon or dinosaur? Moana or Maui? Too many trolls to choose! With the transformative power of face paint, a last minute mind change will never mean you have a costume to return. We rounded up easy ways to trick out your Halloween and keep imaginations spinning all year long. Keep reading to see them all.

photo: Clare Jeffery via Flickr

1. Keep their eyes on the prize.
Whether your trick-or-treater wants to be a wizard or a witch, an eye mask always completes the makeover. You can find a slew of eye inspiration here, or design your own fun shape and embellishments for a truly unique look.

photo: Donnie Ray Jones via Flickr

2. Try out a prowl.
Does it get any easier than a set of whiskers? We don’t think so. And really, they’re all your shy cat or fierce lion needs to play the part. Any black eyeliner will do the trick. In fact, look no further than mom’s makeup bag for tons of fun ways to use everyday makeup as face paint.

photo: Lynne Bailey via Flickr

3. Color inside the lines.
If freestyling is leaving you uninspired, invest in a stencil set like this one from Create A Face for dozens of great ideas. With plenty of options on hand, these can be reused for birthday parties or rainy-day dress-up down the road. And don’t forget about arms and legs—you can stencil on temporary tattoos too!

photo: clappstar via Flickr

4. Face off with a friend.
A partner in candy crime can double the fun. For any full-coverage commitment, be sure to go with natural, non-toxic paints like these from Elegant Minerals. In general, check that any face paint you buy is water-soluble and free of lead, nickel, chromium, or any other skin allergens—the only Halloween heavy metal we’re interested in is of the musical variety.

photo: Nathan Rupert via Flickr

5. Go abstract.
Bold colors and swooping lines are a simple way to pull off a strong, dramatic, and one-of-a-kind look. And if you only need a handful of colors, Go Green Face Paint’s organic, stackable kit packs in plenty o’ paint to get the job done.

photo: Becky Baran

6. Add a little lip.
Nothing is cuter than when your pup starts talking like a toddler. If you want to make the mouth a key part of the animal fun, again ensure safety by going with food-based ingredients. It will take a little extra prep work, but you’ll save a lot of time worrying! This recipe by Mommypotamus largely consists of cornstarch, flour, honey, water, and natural food dye.

photo: Diana Beato via Flickr

7. Bling out.
If you have a kid who will jump for gems, they are a perfect way to add that little extra pizazz. Mama Clown’s assorted self-adhesives make it easier than ever to bedazzle your design. Try adding a necklace or forehead hat or crown to complete the look.

photo: James Kim via Flickr

8. Get in the hot seat.
Why not take the first spin? Your Halloween artists may come up with ideas they never would have thought of without brushes in their own hands. If you’re in need of the right tool for the job, check out Silly Farm’s extensive assortment of supplies.

photo: Jessie Bailey via Flickr

9. Remember a ‘stache.
Second to whiskers, little is easier than adding a mustache. Consider going multi-colored to kick things up a notch. Extra points if you make use of eyebrow real estate! Dress Up America’s Face & Body Crayons will give you extra control with color and are another great option for kids to use themselves.

photo: USAG- Humphreys via Flickr

10. Cheek to cheek … and sweet.
Less can truly be more. Give everyone you trick or treat a reason to smile with something as simple as a rainbow, heart, or peace sign. The Klutz Face Painting Craft Kit has several step-by-step cheek designs to pull off that most classic look of all.

 

 

Plan to face paint this Halloween? Share your ideas in the Comments below!

—Jennifer Massoni Pardini

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30 Incredibly Easy Ways to Keep Kids Busy After School

by Christal Y.

School’s back in session and the witching hour—those afternoon moments when crankiness is at its peak—has cast a spell over your little ones. Time to pull out your arsenal of activities to keep kiddos busy and happy before dinner’s served. Need a few new ideas? We’ve got you covered. Read on to discover our Red Tricycle checklist of fun, filled with 30 easy, awesome ways to help little minds unwind. Print it out, pin it up, and revisit for activity inspiration.

Psst—click on the blue text in the pdf to get the tutorial! If you want to go green and save paper, opt to check off each box digitally. Remember to save the file to save your progress. Click here to download the pdf (right click and “save as” to save onto your computer).

30waystoplayafterschool-pptx

1. Play a classic backyard game.

2. Build a nature fort in the backyard. 

3. Create something cool out of cardboard.

4. Look for butterflies. 

5. No paint brushes? No problem. Here are 10 art projects that don’t need bristles. 

6. Go on a scavenger hunt that requires quiet time. 

7. Make a puppet theater.

8. Read a book that inspires innovation.

9. Get crafty a project with five supplies or less!

10. Practice your pirate vocab.

11. Make your TP roll go the distance and use it in a project. 

12. Set up an imaginary world of play and watch the afternoon fly by.

13. The homework’s gotta happen. These ideas will make it fun!

14. Make a pet rock.

15. Arrange a creative play date with friends.

16. Give their brain muscles a boost with easy memory games.

17. Make a toy car garage.

18. Let your little magicians impress you with seven easy magic tricks. 

19. Spice up coloring time with a new and cool coloring book.

20. Explore the art of image projection with a DIY pinhole camera.

21. Discover easy ways to upcycle your scrap paper.

22. Run relays in the backyard.

23. Feel the force with a Star Wars-themed activity. 

24. Give their green thumbs a workout with eight easy gardening ideas.

25. Share some wacky animal facts.

26. Explore science with simple outdoor experiments.

27. Have a dance party.

28. Whip up a batch of your own bubbles.

29. Try out a new subscription box.

30. Make math fun with these easy games.

Share this checklist with your friends and then tell us below your go-to activity for after school fun!

 

— Christal Yuen & Gabby Cullen

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