It’s August and school is upon us! Last year was just about the weirdest year ever for our kids, so this fall might feel a little intimidating or scary for some little ones. The good news? Kids are resilient and strong, but it makes total sense that they might have a lot of big feelings associated with being back in the classroom. Here are five creative ideas that might be helpful to ease the back-to-school transition:
1. Act It Out
If kids are nervous about going back to school, try roll play! First, act out what the first day of school might actually be like, then try the OTT version (Over the Top) where everything is silly and exaggerated. Try switching rolls. You can be the teacher and your child can be the student and then switch!
2. Draw It Out
Help kids feel ownership of their back-to-school process with an art project to decorate a new lunch box or a backpack. Using glitter glue pens or fabric markers give kids the freedom to go to town on an item they will be bringing with them to school. This gives them a sense of control and helps them bring their own unique perspective and artistic voice into an otherwise unfamiliar situation.
3. Play It Out
Kids need practice reading other people’s emotions—particularly with masks. Remind them of the importance of using their eyes to express and read emotions. Practice “HAPPY” “SAD” “ANGRY” and “SILLY” eyes. Make it into a game and see if you can guess each other’s emotions.
4. Talk It Out
Let your story be their school super power. Tell them the story of your first day of school or a memorable moment from your childhood at school with this framework:
A LONG TIME AGO, WHEN I WAS YOUR AGE, I HAD A HARD TIME WITH ___________ .
I FELT ___________ WHEN I WAS GOING TO ___________.
I TOOK MY DEEP BREATHS AND I __________.
IT WAS SCARY AT FIRST, BUT THEN I REALIZED ______________.
5. Dance It Out
Do you walk to school? How about dancing to school instead? Take turns leading different silly dance moves as you walk. Bonus: play some fun music on your phone as you go! Not walking, but driving? No problem, use arm-dancing that you can do SAFELY while driving!
Whatever you choose to do, keep in mind that the more creative play and imagination you can bring to the back to school process, the more your kids will have opportunities for laughter and joy! Laughter is proven to reduce anxiety and stress and, I think we all could use a little of that this fall.
Nina Meehan is CEO and Founder Bay Area Children's Theatre and the host of the Creative Parenting Podcast. An internationally recognized expert in youth development through the arts, Nina nurtures innovation by fostering creative thinking. She is mom to Toby (13), Robby (10) and Meadow (5).
Of the hundreds of pitches and sites we scroll through each week, there are just a handful of products that really catch our eye. And this week, we’re all about saving money thanks to our favorite Labor Day sales. Whether they’re kid-specific or broader picks that make our lives better (and brighter), these are the goods we’re raving about and putting into our shopping carts. The best news? All of these items give back to a good cause!
Play Maysie's Eco-Friendly Doll House
Adorable mini dollhouses settled in a vintage-inspired lunch box. All the furniture is attached to the lunch box and the accessories are magnetic!
Gel pen lovers will be thrilled over this multi-pack from Bright Stripes. And, each purchase benefits Art Feeds' International, a non-profit that strives to bring art lessons and supplies to kids in five different countries around the world.
Keds' Washable Double-Decker Rainbow Women Slip Ons
In honor of Women's Equality Day, Keds donated shoes to Artists for Humanity, as well as $10,000. The artists then created one-of-a-kind sneakers for purchase.
Right now the company behind this inspiring collection of stories is doubling their donations to our Better to Give partner, the International Rescue Committee (IRC), to help the IRC support families in Afghanistan and in crisis zones worldwide
This cozy throw from UGG is 40% off and we are pretty sure we’re going to buy two of them because we all know someone is going to steal it while we’re lounging with it on the couch.
Mini fashionistas will love this flower power fleece by Stella McCartney! Money-saving parents will love that it's $50 off thanks to the Saks Labor Day Sale. Here are the details and the chance to save even more money.
This playhouse is 59% off (Wayfair's Labor Day sale is next level with the savings) and while there are too many cute features to list, we can't get enough of that mailbox with flag and attached picnic bench. PS: This would make an adorable present for the holidays.
Your little T-Rex loves all things dino so give them something to stomp around in with these Jurassic-inspired sneakers. BTW—the whole site (yes, everything) is 50% off until Sep.6.
You can never have enough swaddles—even better when they come with adjustable fabric wings like this Delta set, guaranteeing a snug, comfy fit every time.
Sephora's sale is off-the-hook with products being marked down up to 50% through Sept. 19. It was hard, but if we had to pick one item, it would be this matte lipstick from Fenty Beauty by Rhianna (in fall-friendly spiced terracotta)—but don't delay, the colors were running out of stock as we typed this.
Tye dye is still going strong—if you haven’t tried it yet, grab this kit (42% off!) and get ready for some wearable art to enter your life. Bonus: 10% of this purchase gets donated to Olive Crest—non-profit that serves at-risk children and families.
This candle is filled with soy-wax (better for you!) and 40% off (better for your wallet!). With scents of fresh sea salt, you can just close your eyes and transport yourself back to the beach of your dreams.
Finding cool, statement earrings that don't weigh you down is like trying to find a lost paci in the middle of the night...until we discovered these pretty color-block earrings from Esh Jewelry Collection on Etsy that are "feather light." Etsy is running special LDW sales starting Sep. 2). Your ears will thank you.
Don’t let the back-to-school process overwhelm you! This handy guide includes everything you’ll need in the school supplies department, ideas to combat first-day jitters, funny jokes to get you through and cute clothes that kids will love. Plus, we’ve included some lunch tips and hacks for when you just cannot make another PB&J. Parents, we’ve got you covered!
This list has loads of great backpack options including super stylish backpacks, adaptive backpacks for kids in wheelchairs and wheelie backpacks for those who have to bring every book home every day.
Lunch Boxes & Snack Bags
Start the year off strong with the perfect lunch box. This story has loads of options that will keep your food chilled, in separate compartments or piping hot—just the way your kid likes it.
While you are at it, grab some reusable snack bags so that you can go all green this year.
Bento Boxes
Put a bento box into your kid's lunch and they'll love the little compartments that can fit everything from rolled-up sandwiches to tiny crackers. There are even some that will keep your lunch chilled all day.
Water Bottles
Takeya
Leaky water bottles are the bain of parental existence, right? These are our favorite water bottles for kids from sippy cup versions to insulated stainless steel water bottles. that parents will love too.
Do yourself a favor and get your kids a clothing subscription service this school year. They will get some awesome new styles sent right to them and you don't have to take them shopping with you. Win-win!
Adaptive & Sensory-Friendly Clothes
Kohl's
When it comes to back-to-school clothes shopping, your kid’s all about perfecting “the look.” And with on-trend adaptive clothing lines galore to choose from, even issues like Sensory Processing Disorder or other special needs won’t hold your fashion-forward kiddo back. This BTS season it’s ready, set, shop … for everyone.
Shoes
Native Shoes
Let your little one slip into something easy and stylish this back-to-school season. These lace-free options give even the smallest pre-schooler the independence to get ready on their own. Which means less work for you!
Face Masks
Mightly
If your school is requiring face masks for in-person learners, now is the time to refresh your collection. This massive list has all the character, colorful and black (tweens, right?) face masks for kids that you could want.
Start a school day tradition like listening to a favorite song on the ride to school or having a special thing you say to your kids when you drop them off.
After a big day of big transitions, dinner can be the last night on your mind. Make dinner easy with these meal kit delivery companies.
Save this one for mid-October when all the lunch inspiration is gone. We've got tons of ideas for lunches from corndog muffins to grilled cheese rollups to freezer sandwiches.
Snag a bento box and check out this list of inspirational ideas for bento box lunches. All the friends will be jealous of your little one's spread!
The days of soggy tater tots and cardboard-stiff pizza are over. From chicken tikka masala and pasta primavera to avocado rolls and barbecue chicken wraps, today’s young foodies can order made-from-scratch meals and have them delivered straight to school. Hungry yet? Read on to find out how to upgrade your kid’s school lunch.
The LunchMaster
The LunchMaster
The Big Picture: The LunchMaster’s goal is to provide healthy, from-scratch meals that’ll give students the energy to learn with more success every day. They also strive to strengthen the community, whether that means working with local farmers or meeting the specific needs of parents and schools.
Where: San Francisco Bay Area and California Central Valley
What’s on the menu: California roll, carne asada street tacos, Italian market salad.
What makes it unique: Parents can choose up to eight menu options (there are hot and cold entrees, fresh fruit and veggie sides), including a gluten-free or vegetarian meal. Each choice has been designed by a Registered Dietitian, is freshly made with local ingredients and delivered to your kids’ school every day.
How it works: Get your school to register with The Lunchmaster and then you’ll enter your school code online. All Meals adhere to strict regulations, including the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP).
Average cost: One entree, fresh fruit, fresh vegetable, snack, and choice of cold beverage costs less than $6.
The Big Picture: Yumble doesn't deliver lunch to your kids' school, but instead will deliver freshly-packed, ready-to-eat meals to your house, so all you have to do each day is pull one out of the fridge, throw it in a lunchbox and go!
Where: The east coast.
What's on the menu: Presto! Pesto Chicken Sandwich Meal, Mac N Cheese & Nuggest Please, Orange-You-Glad Chicken Bowl and more.
How it works: Simply sign up for four, six, eight or 12 meals a week, and they'll be delivered to your front door on either Tues., Wed., Thurs or Fri.
The Big Picture: Founded in 2006 by two ambitious moms hoping to change lunchtime at America's schools, Revolution Foods is now one of the largest lunch providers in the nation, dishing out more than 2 million meals per week to kids K-12. All meals are made without any artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners, high-fructose corn syrup, MSG, nitrates or nitrites.
Where: California, Texas, Colorado, Louisiana, Tennessee, the Mid-Atlantic states and New England.
What's on the Menu: Meals vary per region but may include Korean BBQ beef, enchiladas, chicken pesto pasta salad, jambalaya and more.
How it works: The company works directly with the schools under the National School Lunch Program, so meals are served family-style or in cafeterias for little or no cost to the students.
Average cost: Free to qualified students under the National School Lunch Program.
The Big Picture: You wouldn't feed your one-year-old the same stuff you'd give your eighth-grader, would you? Well, neither would Chefables. Originally founded with a mission to provide healthy meals to the tiniest eaters—kids as young as one in childcare centers across the San Francisco Bay Area—this lunch delivery company now provides made-from-scratch meals and snacks to kids up to eighth grade.
Where: San Francisco Bay Area.
What's on the Menu: Homemade turkey burger on whole grain roll, served with grilled asparagus and fresh strawberries; baked whole wheat pancakes with berry compote; roasted chicken chow mein.
How it works: Parents go online or use their smartphones to assemble sides, snacks, and/or entrees a la carte to their child's lunch. Meals are delivered just before lunchtime.
What makes it unique: It's not just the kinds of food that's age-appropriate; it's also how the food is served. In creating the daily menus, Chefables co-owner Lesley Kohn said the chefs consider everything from how many teeth their little eaters might have to how big the portions should be to satisfy those hungry tummies. And, everything from the bread to the yogurt is made from scratch.
Average cost per meal: Free or low cost to students/schools who qualify for the National School Lunch Program; otherwise, sides start at $1 and entrees average about $5.
The Big Picture: Organic Kids LA started in 2011 with one mom making baby food for her friends and selling it at local farmer's markets. Today, the company serves elementary, middle and high schools and four camps across the greater Los Angeles area.
Where: Los Angeles
What's on the Menu: Vietnamese spring rolls with rice and edamame; turkey sloppy joe's with cold carrots and ranch dressing plus sweet potato chips; spaghetti bolognese with broccoli. There's also a different salad every day as well as a DIY bento box with more than 40 choices.
How it works: Parents load their online account with "credits" in order to customize and buy lunches in advance, and the meals are delivered in reusable boxes to the child's school before lunchtime. Empty boxes are then collected after lunch and returned to be cleaned and reused.
What makes it unique: The company uses 100% organic fruits and veggies, grass-fed meats and free-roaming chicken. Also, if kids don't want a hot lunch, they can pick and choose cold items to create their own 4-cup bento box.
Average cost per meal: Varies depending on size (small, $6.50; medium, $7.25; large, $8). Add-ons (cold-pressed juices and extra snacks) are at an additional cost.
The Big Picture: California Pizza Kitchen at school? Yes, please! Wholesome Food Services has a slightly different business model than most other lunch delivery companies: It partners with local restaurants (including CPK, Wahoo's Fish Taco, Jamba Juice and others) to provide yummy meals to school kids.
Where: Colorado, Dallas, Chicago (with more cities to come).
What's on the Menu: Every day features a different restaurant, so Mondays could be pizza and salads from CPK; Tuesday could be spaghetti and meatballs from Noodles & Company. Click here to see some of the partner restaurants.
How it works: Parents order online up to two months in advance. Orders are sent to partner restaurants, who make the foods, which are then picked up and labeled individually for each student.
What makes it unique: Instead of making lunches in its own kitchen, Wholesome Food Services uses partner restaurants to prepare foods kids already know and love. Another cool perk? Every day, Mom or Dad can write a special note to be included on their child's lunch box label.
The Big Picture: There is a monthly menu of breakfasts, lunches and snacks that arrive daily to preschool and child care centers in six east coast states.
Where: Massachusettes, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia
What's on the Menu: Grilled chicken parm, veggie chili, pasta with turkey meat sauce and more.
How it works: Contact a Smart Lunches rep to see if your school is in an area the company serves. From there, you'll be able to see if Smart Lunches is a good fit for your kids' school program.
What makes it unique: There are gluten-free and veggie options offered every day.
Red Rabbit - Greater New York, Philadelphia and New Jersey regions
Red Rabbit
The Big Picture: This Harlem-based business was founded in 2005 and serves more than 20,000 meals per day to elementary and middle schools throughout the greater New York, Philadelphia and New Jersey regions, dishing up heritage-based, healthy favorites for little or no cost to qualified students.
Where: Greater New York, Philadelphia and New Jersey regions.
What's on the Menu: Chana Masala, Jerk Chicken, Pollo Guisado and much more.
What makes it unique: Ingredients are locally sourced and include culturally relevant ingredients that kids recognize. Everything is made from scratch. Nothing is frozen, processed, or fried and all meats are bought directly from local butchers.
Average cost per meal: Free or low-cost to students who qualify for the National School Lunch Program. In schools that don't apply for federal reimbursement, lunches are about $5 per meal.
The Big Picture: Founded by a husband and wife catering team who believed that school lunches should be "freshly prepared in a kitchen and not a factory," Choicelunch lets parents browse a selection of 16 daily entrees and up to 40 different snacks to be delivered (in a compostable box!) just before lunchtime.
Where: Over 300 schools in California.
What's on the Menu: Kid favorites like pizza, buttered noodles, plus more adventurous items like avocado sushi rolls and chicken tikka masala.
How it works: Parents can order online via the mobile app (iOS, Google Play) and an online ordering system that shows pictures of every entree. There's also a monthly meal plan that gives parents a discount and includes perks like credits for vacation or sick days and no fees for last-minute ordering.
What makes it unique: Orders can be placed months in advance—or at the last minute. Also, to lessen its environmental footprint, Choicelunch designed its meal boxes using GMO-free potato starch and uses fresh fruit baggies made of corn. There's also an allergen filter that helps put parents at ease about food choices.
The big picture: Red Apple Lunch helps busy parents provide healthy, yummy lunches for their kids without the hassle of extra prep. Everything is delivered to your doorstep!
Where: Currently serving the greater Boston area.
What's on the menu: Each lunch comes with the main item, fruit, veggies and a treat. You can opt to add a drink or a snack.
How it works: This Boston-area school lunch delivery service allows parents to choose lunches for the week and decide on a delivery day.
What makes it unique: For every lunch ordered, Red Apple Lunch provides a meal to a family in need.
Editor’s Note: Most require a partnership with a school in order to deliver lunches. If your school is not on board yet, talk to the school’s principal or food coordinator to drum up interest.
You always hear about doing random acts of kindness for strangers. But sometimes those little acts can have a big impact on our own kids too. There are lots of ways you can make time for kids that really won’t cost you much in terms of effort, but will go a long way in your little one’s day. In the spirit of positive parenting, here are 27 little gestures that make kids feel really important.
1. Host a Yes Day. Ice cream for dinner? Yes! An impromptu trip to the park? Sure! Imagine the joy your kids will feel when you say "yes" to everything! Inspired by the Yes Day book, this post has all the details you need to say "yes" all day long.
2. Color together. Grab a blank stack of paper, a pack of crayons and your imagination and start drawing. Spend time with your kids drawing pictures together, and then hang your art throughout the house to remind you of the special time together.
3. Show appreciation and say "thank you." Everyday life can get tough, and sometimes we forget to appreciate the little things our kids do for us. Make an effort to thank them for even the smallest things. Did your kiddo do a great job getting ready for bed? Tell her how much you appreciate it. It may seem little to you, but it will mean the world to her.
4. Don't say anything when your kids dress themselves "creatively." Left on their own, many kids will dress themselves in mismatched outfits and funky shoes. Why not let them have a day where you go with the flow? Maybe even tell them how much you love their outfit!
5. Had a fight with your partner? Make sure your kids see you apologize and make up.
iStock
6. Spend time outside together. Turn off the screens and step outdoors for family fun. We're not talking about major camping trips or outdoor adventures. Little things like going for a family walk, a trip to the park, or having a snowball fight will make your kids feel happy to be with you.
7. Share words of affection. Make sure you tell your kids you love them, or how you're proud of them for simply being a good kid. Words can be powerful, and your kids will remember what you say.
8. Have a tea party. Get those pinkies up, make finger sandwiches, brew some tea (or juice boxes) and put on a fancy hat for fun.
9. Give them extra time before bedtime. Does your kid constantly ask to push her bedtime? Surprise her one night by letting her have an extra 20-30 minutes before snoozing.
10. Help your kid be brave. Let them express themselves fully and read a few books about bravery. Give your kiddos the tools they need to express self-confidence. These small efforts will go a long way in instilling confidence in even the youngest of tykes.
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11. Eat a family meal together. It's okay if a family dinner isn't your thing. How about family breakfast, or lunch on the weekends? Whatever works for your family, make an effort to have a special meal together.
12. Wear the handmade jewelry item they made you. Remember that macaroni necklace your son made you? Take it out of the drawer and wear it for a day.
13. Tell them a story about what they were like as babies. Remind them about the first time they smiled, their first word, or the first time they walked.
14. Let them know it's okay to quit. If your kiddo has been miserable playing soccer or attempting a new skill, give them permission to move on and leave the unhappy activity behind.
15. Play a game. Get out a deck or card and play Go Fish, or gather around the table to play a board game.
16. Watch the sunrise or sunset together. It only lasts a few brief moments, but sometimes that's all you need to make a big impression on your kid.
17. Help them clean their room. We're always telling our kids to pick up their stuff and clean up. When you have a bit more time to give, make a point to do the clean-up work together.
18. Have an impromptu dance party. This can be as simple as putting on a few songs and dancing in the living room. No fancy equipment. Just some music and a willingness to move.
19. Let your kid pick the dinner menu. This little gesture can make your kids feel really important, especially if you have a picky eater in the house. Need meal inspirations? We've got you covered with these cookbook recommendations.
20. Play video games with them. While the idea of playing Minecraft or Roblox is probably not your idea of fun, the opposite is most certainly true for your young gamer. How much would they love it if you took some time to play alongside them?
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21. Learn something new together. Have you always wanted to make a pie? Do it with your kiddo! Does your little one want to learn a new dance move? Get your rhythm on together. Working together to achieve a goal will strengthen your bond and show your kiddos you care about their efforts.
22. Read together. Grab a book and snuggle up on the couch together and read. Whether your kiddo is small and needs you to read aloud or you've got a young reader who prefers their own book, take a few minutes to bond over books. Your kids will remember this time together.
23. Have a pajama day. While it's great to get outside, there's nothing wrong with having a day indoors that focuses on indoor play, movies, books and stay in pajamas all day.
24. Print photos and make an album for your kids. We have thousands of photos, but they exist virtually. Print out a handful of photos and create a small album for your little one to flip through. They will love this simple act of kindness.
25. Write a note of encouragement. This can be as simple as "I love you and thanks for being a great kid." Slip the note in their lunch box. Tape it to the mirror, or leave it on your kiddo's pillow.
26. Take a walk on a rainy day and splash in ALL the puddles. Letting out your inner four-year-old will show your kids that you're not afraid to get silly too.
27. Pick a summer anthem. If you and your kids have a theme song for summer, you'll be able to sing together every time you put it on.
Amazon’s epic Prime Day has arrived! Get ready for some stellar deals and the best savings of the year.
Open to Prime members, Prime Day has over 2 million deals in electronics, baby, home, beauty, fashion and more. It’s also the perfect time to support small and medium businesses in addition to woman-owned, Black-owned and family-owned businesses.
We’ve rounded up the best deals for families and kids and be sure to check back often as more items make the list.
Baby
Willow
Regalo Baby 12-30% off select items like Sensory & Learning My Play Mat, Extra Tall Walk Thru Baby Gate and 192-Inch Double Door Super Wide Adjustable Baby Gate and Play Yard
Not a Prime member yet? There’s plenty of time to sign up and enjoy a 30-day free trial! Just head to Amazon and then shop Prime Day. Be sure to keep checking back as more deals are announced.
––Karly Wood
All photos: Courtesy of Amazon/Feature photo: Rawpixel
If embracing Star Wars style only on May the 4th isn’t enough for you, you’re not alone. Ever since Star Wars Day has come and gone, there are tons of new galaxy-inspired products hitting store shelves. From baby Yoda jammies and Mandalorian-inspired backpacks, there are plenty of ways to show your strength against the dark side! Keep scrolling to see our faves.
Columbia Outer Rim Collection
Columbia is back with another limited edition collection! The special lineup includes three styles for men, women and kids with prices ranging from $45 to $65. Each piece is packed with Star Wars iconic images and is perfect for summer adventures.
When it comes to stylish duds, Hanna Andersson has it in the bag. The brand's collection of PJ's for the whole fam and comfy shirts, dresses and more mean you'll be embracing the Force in total style.
May the Force be with your Amazon Echo Dot 4th Generation! Otterbox has just dropped a new Grogu Echo Dot Stand in its Made for Amazon Star Wars OtterBox Den Series and its available for pre-order starting May 4.
Head to amazon.com to pre-order, with shipping starting Jun. 10, 2021.
Hershel Mandalorian Collection
Herschel's second Star Wars collab has landed! The Mandalorian-inspired lineup features a Little America Backpack, Classic X-Large backpack, Little Herschel Pop Quiz Lunch Box and a Heritage Kids Backpack––all with legit Mando patterns and phrases.
This Grogu-approved tea is made with hibiscus, blueberries and organic monk fruit and comes in a collectable tin. It's a part of the Mandalorian Tea Collection and joins The Child Green Tea and Mysterious Black Tea.
Available at www.RepublicofTea.com and select specialty retailers across the country, $8.50
The Black Series Galaxy's Edge Captain Cardinal Electronic Helmet
Captain Cardinal served as Armitage Hux’s personal guard and now your kiddos can feel like the real deal. This wearable helmet has a voice distorter, adjustable fit, interior padding and everything you need to fit right into the galaxy.
Do you cringe when you hear the word “math”? Or maybe you remember trying to get out of going to school because you had a multiplication test that day? Us too. Math anxiety is actually a common thing and paired with learning loss from the COVID-19 pandemic, kids (not to mention, parents) need all the support they can get. It probably won’t surprise you, but math during COVID suffered more than other subjects; since math tends to be learned at school, parents are often less equipped to help their kids with math, and it’s more challenging for teachers to engage kids in math using remote platforms. A study published in January 2020found that 67% of teachers reported that students’ math anxiety was a problem.
Now for the good news: We’ve found a solution! Osmo is an innovative, hands-on digital learning tool that’s interactive and engaging. These games pack a learning punch, and to kids, they are just playing video games—very sneaky, Osmo, but we are into it! The big news is that the geniuses behind the brand have created Osmo’s Math Wizard to help kids ages 6-8 enjoy learning math—it’s a creative take on math curriculum-based content for first and second-graders. Read on to learn four ways that Osmo’s Math Wizard Series is the math anxiety cure you’ve been searching for.
Everyone learns differently, and being rushed to keep up with a group is not ideal when it comes to learning a new skill. Osmo’s Math Wizard is perfect for this because it’s a self-paced math game series. By combining digital gameplay with active, hands-on learning methods, kids build math confidence and understanding before moving on to the next challenge. This way, they can actually retain what they learn.
2. They're Not Being Put On the Spot in Front of Peers
A big part of anxiety is the fear of failing. Taking a risk answering a question from the teacher or being put on the spot to give an answer they are not prepared for can be embarrassing—this can lead to “I can’t!” and kids giving up. Osmo works with your kid one-on-one, guiding them along the way, even giving hints when they need them. Instead of breaking them down, Osmo’s learning system builds up their confidence and encourages their curiosity about the subject—that is no easy task for a virtual school or classroom full of peers.
One of our favorite things about Osmo's Math Wizard game system is that with the help of Osmo, your kid takes the wheel when it comes to learning. That means you can kick back and relax for a bit since they don't need your help or guidance to get through these learning games! This is a series of activities they can do all on their own; in fact, it's even better if they do—it's another confidence-boosting opportunity that will keep the math scaries at bay for years to come.
4. It's FUN To Play!
If you haven't guessed it by now, Osmo's Math Wizard makes learning math an incredibly fun and rewarding experience. This series features four action-packed game boxes (two of them brand-spanking-new!). The first box, The Magical Workshop, takes kids on an adding and subtracting adventure! Brew potions with dragon claws and magic sparkles to master place value on a magical quest—add and subtract balloons to help dragons fly! Box two is Secrets of the Dragons, where they'll explore the Dragon Reserve to discover the rarest of dragons, learning how to measure their growth as they feed them to become big and strong.
Big news: Two hot new boxes were just added to the Math Wizard family! The Amazing Airships box features fantastical two mini-games. Build awesome airships to deliver packages all across Spellbarrow Port! Here's the catch: Airships need to balance their lift and the combined weight of the packages and vessel to work. In Clockwork, get ready to guide a team of quirky clockwork robots through the skies. Use your finger and your counting skills to wind up your robots just the right amount and watch them go. As you explore, more and more robots will join your cause, each bringing their unique abilities, whether it's bashing through walls, hovering over gaps, or walking upside down on the ceiling.
The second new box, The Enchanted World Games, includes two games that combine sports with math skills. In Bento Box, kids put together a magical lunch box. Players can choose from five different sports, including sprinting, pole vaulting, archery, swimming and wrestling, and help the athletes by feeding them the best combination of fruits. Add the points from the fruits you place to make the correct total. In Juice Team, teams are counting on the right blend of juice to win their trophies. Add the superfood fruits to create a magical juice, using the right combination of numbers to reach the target. Players will learn to make the same number in different ways and will need to blend wisely for maximum results. Win trophies and unlock more sports like soccer, basketball, baseball and more.
These games build foundations of multiplication, mathematical thinking, reasoning, problem-solving, strategy, mental math and more. The more they learn...eh hem...play, the more rewards they earn to unlock new worlds, trophies, gear for their dragons or airships and more, so they will always want to come back for more!
Psst… Want to be a “cool mom”? Here’s a tip: Osmo is the hottest gaming/learning system on the market, and it’s worth all the hype and more. Osmo is an award-winning play system for iPad and Fire tablets—loved by kids, parents and educators around the world! It’s one-on-one interactive, so kids can focus, connect, learn and have a blast doing it. Numbers, math, letters, spelling, art—these games and kits have it all covered (and you can officially be off-duty as a teacher for a while.)
Just when we thought it couldn’t possibly get any better than this, Osmo introduces its new Math Wizard! Osmo’s Math Wizard is an active, engaging series that helps kids ages 6-8 get a better grasp on math—it’s a creative take on math curriculum-based content for first and second-graders. Rather than being put on the spot in a classroom setting, Math Wizard helps kids build confidence through self-paced gameplay and targeted hints to keep them on track. Even better: They don’t need your guidance because Osmo’s Math Wizard has your back with their kid-driven learning adventures. Read on to learn about their game boxes (two of them brand-spanking-new!) that will make learning math a fun and rewarding experience.
Imagination takes flight in this addition and subtraction adventure! Brew potions with dragon claws and magic sparkles to master place value on a mystical quest. Then, add and subtract balloons to help dragons fly! These magical games are meant to support first and second-grade math curriculum learning. Kids will learn to add and subtract up to 120, counting and place value and comparing numbers. It also comes with two extra digital games for kids to play, for a total of four games!
Box 2: Math Wizard & Secrets of the Dragons
Master measurement with Dragons! Explore the Dragon Reserve to discover the rarest of dragons, learning how to measure their growth as you feed them to become big and strong while completing your Dragon Guidebook. This mystical game is also meant to support first and second-grade math curriculum learning. Kids will learn how to use a ruler, how to use non-standard units to measure, estimating length and adding length.
And now…drumroll, please…two new game boxes! Bonus: Each includes two mini-games that will keep your kid coming back for more problem-solving fun.
*New* Box 3: Math Wizard & The Amazing Airships
Mini-Game 1: Amazing Airships
Build awesome airships to deliver packages all across Spellbarrow Port! Airships need to balance their lift with the combined weight of the packages, and the vessel in order to work. Build the airships on their mat and put them to the test in the skies of Spellbarrow Port. Collect tokens while the airship travels to its destination, and cash them in to purchase upgrades like decorations and magical trails.
Just when you think you’ve got the hang of it, Captain Tiberius asks you to unload your cargo—use your math skills to re-calibrate your airship! Stages of the game become more and more challenging but like all Osmo games, kids go at their own pace, learning and having fun along the way.
Mini-Game 2: Clockwork
Get ready to guide a team of quirky clockwork robots through the skies of Spellbarrow Port. Use your finger and your counting skills to wind up your robots just the right amount and watch them go. As you explore, more and more robots will join your cause, each bringing their own unique abilities—whether it’s bashing through walls, hovering over gaps or walking upside down on the ceiling.
Each level has one or more magic crystals. Place your robot on a crystal, the robot powers on and you can wind it up. The more you wind up the robot, the farther it will travel. Count the number of spaces your robot needs to travel to the golden cog. As you progress in your journey, you’ll have to puzzle your way around levers, doors, springboards, traps and pitfalls to reach your goal.
*New* Box 4: Math Wizard & The Enchanted World Games
Mini-Game 1: Bento Box
In this game, you have to pack a magical lunch box. Players can choose from five different sports (including sprinting, pole vaulting, archery, swimming and wrestling) and help the athletes by feeding them the best combination of fruits. Add the points from the fruits you place to make the correct total.
On some game levels, you can also help out the athletes with magical power-ups—the athletes of the Enchanted World Games depend on you! As you win medals, you can unlock more sports. Collect gems as you play the game, and spend them at the store to buy cool outfits in the Enchanted Store. Don’t forget to try the special power outfits - they give you super-boosts in the game!
Mini-Game 2: Juice Team
These elite teams are counting on the right blend of juice to win their trophies. It’s like Bento Box, but with teams! Add the superfood fruits to make a magical juice, using the right combination of numbers to reach the target. Players will learn to make the same number in different ways and will need to blend wisely for maximum results.
On special levels, you can play sporty mini-games to help your team to victory! Win trophies and unlock more sports like soccer, basketball, baseball and more. Once you’ve blended your way to victory, spend your hard-earned gems at the Enchanted Store to buy outfits for your team!
The kitchen can easily become cluttered, making it less efficient to do daily tasks like making the kids’ lunches. Here are our top five kitchen organization tricks to help organize your kitchen and simplify school lunch preparation.
1. Clean Out Your Pantry & Refrigerator
Places like the pantry and fridge can quickly become disorganized. If you often catch yourself searching for certain foods or rummaging past miscellaneous items like pet food or cleaning supplies, take the time to clean out these spaces. Remove everything and set them on the counter or table. Sort through the items and toss anything that is expired, anything you know you won’t use, or anything that doesn’t belong.
While everything is out of the pantry or refrigerator, take a moment to wipe down the surfaces. Before you put anything back, create an organizational system that makes the most sense for you—such as sorting and storing items by type or priority for easier access. Bonus points if you repackage some items into clear storage bins for better visibility!
2. Optimize Your Storage Spaces
While we wish everyone could have walk-in pantries and spacious cabinets, that’s not always the case. Regardless of the size of your kitchen, there are ways to maximize what you have and create a more optimized storage system. Use cabinet shelves to double or triple your shelf space or under-cabinet baskets to create additional storage. If you don’t already have a kitchen island, add a simple wire shelving unit with a wooden top. Not only will this increase your storage space, but it will also increase the amount of work surface you have.
For a weekend project, you can go a step further and renovate your pantry. Remove inefficient wood shelves and replace them with wire shelving. A small swap like this can make a world of a difference for everyday use.
3. Keep Frequently Used Items on a Cart
Are you always pulling out the same items when making your kids’ lunch or running out of storage room? One of our favorite multi-purpose solutions for kitchen organization is a mobile wire utility cart. This rolling cart can act as moveable storage to hold frequently used snacks, containers, or cooking utensils. This can help streamline the lunch preparation—not only allowing you to pull out everything at once but giving you the ability to tuck it away quickly once done.
4. Designate a Lunch Box Home
Never hunt for a lunch bag again by creating a designated lunch box storage spot. Streamline the process and add small coat hooks in your pantry or a J-hook onto wire shelving to hang lunch boxes near where you prepare the food. Alternatively, keep them along with their backpack, sports gear, or other school items to keep it all stored in one spot.
5. Make Lunch Prep Accessible to Your Kids
When your kids feel like they’re part of the lunch-making process, they may be more encouraged to eat and enjoy the meal. Help get your kids involved by keeping items easily accessible. Organize your kitchen to give them some autonomy—store common lunch foods at their height, like in a lower drawer in the fridge or on a lower shelf in the pantry and ask them to pick out what type of fruit cup they want that day.
Store non-dangerous utensils like kid-safe knives, plastic cookie cutters, or rubber containers at their level to select and grab themselves. You can also stash a small stool nearby, so they can reach the counter and assist with food prep and lunch box assembly.
Hopefully these kitchen organization tips will help make packing the kids’ lunches more efficient and enjoyable for the whole family.
Teuko is the first platform that empowers families to simplify lunch packing. Using Teuko, they can find and share kid-approved lunchbox ideas, recipes, and tips, all in one place. Teuko is transforming the lunch packing experience by boosting inspiration and motivation week after week.
