41 (Free) Printable Activity Pages to Keep the Kids Busy This Winter

by Susie ForesmanDecember 19, 2023

These coloring pages, color-by-number printables, mad libs, printable mazes, and activity pages for kids are all free

Our best remedy for long winter days? A healthy supply of printable activity pages for kids—because when it’s too chilly to go outside, exercising their brains is the next best thing. We’ve rounded up the coolest printables with a timely winter theme, from mad libs to paper snowflakes, free coloring pages, color-by-number printables, and more. Fire up the printer!

North Pole Elf Application

This elf application is a fun Christmas activity page for kids — Elf for Christmas

In what might be the cutest winter-themed activity page for kids we've seen, have your little ones 'apply' to be an elf at the North Pole. They'll have to answer questions like "Can you make a snowball?" and "Do you like candy canes?" and there's a spot for them to pick their preferred job in Santa's Village. Download it here.

Try out this fun matching game activity page from Education.com! It'll keep the kids busy for hours.

Whether your kiddo loves skiing or not, they'll love coloring this cool skier from Education.com!

Count the Snowmen

Get counting practice in with this printable from MomDot. Once they’ve counted up all the snowmen, they can decorate them all too!

Trace the Winter Hat

This printable activity page for kids from Twisty Noodle is perfect for chilly days. Kids can flex their tracing skills, and then color in the hat however they like.

Ice Skating Tangle

Here’s a good challenge for your little ones: can they untangle the twisty ice skating path created by Tim’s Printables?

Trace, Color & Cut

Wintertime calls for a nice cup of hot cocoa, as Woo! Jr. knows. Whip up a batch while the kids work on tracing with this cute (and free!) printable.

I Spy, Winter Edition

If your little one is just learning how to count, this I Spy printable from Live Laugh Rowe will help them practice their skills.

Winter Mad Libs

Create a silly story with these fun winter-themed Mad Libs. Get the printables (including ones about a snowstorm, ice skates, and winter facts) from Woo! Jr.

Winter Secret Message

Kids can decode a secret message with this simple but fun printable from All Kids Network.

Cone Paper Dolls

Thanks to Mr. Printables, it’s ridiculously easy to make your own paper dolls. Just print out the doll printables and winter-themed clothes, then roll them up and glue your creations together.

Gingerbread Hunt

This activity from KCEdventures requires a bit of pre-planning, but it’s totally worth the effort. Print out the gingerbread people and hide them around the house, then let the kids hunt for them all!

Paper Snowflakes

Remember cutting out paper snowflakes as a kid? Now your little ones can do the same, thanks to First Palette.

Winter Color by Number

Perfect for preschool or kindergarten-aged kids, these color-by-number printables from Itsy Bitsy Fun will be the perfect snow day activity.

Wintry Scene Coloring Page

Keep your little ones entertained with this intricate winter scene coloring page from Dover Publications.

Snowflakes

Let your budding artist unleash their creativity on these snowflakes from First Palette. Available in different sizes and designs, they can color them, cut them out, and even use them to make a garland or another craft.

Snowman Playdough Mats

The kiddos can practice counting and work on their fine motor skills with this genius printable from Itsy Bitsy Fun. Plus, they’re always lured in by playdough!

Winter Dot Painting

This cute activity sheet for kids from The Resourceful Mama is sure to be a hit with your little ones. If you’ve got dot markers, they can fill them in with those, or you can use pom poms or regular markers.

Winter I Spy

Stuck inside during a snowstorm? This I Spy game from Simple Play Ideas will be a lifesaver. It’ll put your kids’ finding and counting skills to the test.

Winter Color-by-Letter

Little ones can practice their alphabet while coloring wintry pictures with these fun color-by-letter worksheets from Trail of Colors.

Winter Pattern Mats

We love this winter printable from Life Over C’s that’s sure to keep the kids occupied for an afternoon. Once you’ve printed out the pieces, encourage your littles to create different patterns on their mats.

Winter Word Search

If your kiddo’s got a handle on reading, you’ve got to use this word search printable from Real Life at Home. Hunker down by the fire while looking for words like reindeer and blizzard.

Winter Lacing Cards

Let the tots work on their fine motor skills with these cute lacing cards from Living Life and Learning. The set includes a snowflake, reindeer, and gingerbread man.

Snowman Bingo Game

We love this print-and-play bingo game from Crazy Little Projects. You can use mini marshmallows as markers to fit the snowman theme.

Winter Coloring Page

Keep it simple by printing out this fun coloring page from Trail of Colors. Kids will love decorating the mittens, hat, and scarf whether or not it’s snowing where you live.

Snowman Shape Matching

Even if it doesn’t snow where you live, kids can still build a snowman thanks to this clever worksheet from Totschooling. Plus, they’ll get to practice matching shapes while they’re at it.

Fine Motor Skills Builder

Print out this page from You Clever Monkey to help your kids build fine motor skills. Have them decorate the tree with playdough, buttons, or small beads. You can even make it into a counting or alphabet game.

Winter Scene Playdough Mats

To keep the kiddos occupied for an afternoon, print out and laminate this winter scene from Living Well Mom. Then they can get creative building and decorating snowballs and snowmen.

Christmas Counting Picture

Your kid will sharpen their math skills while also having fun with this Christmas math worksheet! Find it on Education.com.

Winter Gross Motor Movement Game

If you’re stuck inside on a cold day, this cool printable game from Gift of Curiosity will keep the boredom at bay. Print out the cards and place them on a cube (or just shuffle them in a stack)—each card directs kids to do a different action.

Winter Cutting Practice Symmetry Worksheets

Kids can sharpen their scissor skills and learn about symmetry with these cool activity pages from Itsy Bitsy Fun. Once they’re done cutting out the shapes, they can decorate them with markers or crayons too.

Snowman Number Match

How cute is this matching activity from A Dab of Glue Will Do? It’s a great way to get some extra math time in this winter.

Snow Day Bingo

Keep the cabin fever away on your next snow day by trying out this genius twist on bingo from All Free Kids Crafts. Kids can cross out a bingo square for each activity they do, from drinking hot cocoa to having a dance party.

Snowflake Fine Motor Activity

If your littles like playing with hole punches, this activity from Early Learning Ideas will definitely be a winner. They can go to town punching the holes, and then they can decorate their snowflakes with crayons or glitter glue.

Winter Spelling Activity

You don’t have to let winter break brain drain set in thanks to this awesome activity from The Measured Mom. Similar to a board game, it can be adapted to any word list.

Christmas Spot the Difference

Look and see if you can find all of the differences in this worksheet! Find this exciting worksheet on Education.com.

Winter Bucket List

Make your game plan for the rest of the season with this cool idea from 3Dinosaurs. There are versions available for kids to write their wishes down or to draw them out if they’re not writing yet.

Winter Mazes

Perfect for preschoolers and kindergarteners, these wintry mazes from BrainyMaze are super fun. Each page includes a maze and a counting and writing activity.

Build a Snowman Worksheet

Here’s a fun activity from Education.com to help combat cabin fever—kids can color their own snowman, then cut out the pieces and glue them all together.

Gingerbread Matching Game

Challenge your tot to find the two matching gingerbread men in this printable from Squishy-Cute Designs.

Gingerbread Man Color By Number

This fun worksheet will have you and your kid wanting to bake gingerbread cookies! Find this cute color by number worksheet at Education.com.

16 Trader Joe’s Appetizers to Serve During the Holidays This Year

by Kate LowethNovember 30, 2023

These Trader Joe’s appetizers are the easiest way to look like a gourmet chef in 15 minutes or less

Whether you are getting together with your family or having a mom’s night sans kids, you’ll definitely need some amazing appetizers to whip up this holiday season. Trader Joe’s has easy appetizers ready to go in their frozen section along with easy-to-make recipes from dips you can only find this time of year. These Trader Joe’s appetizers will save you tons of time during the holidays this year and will impress the pickiest of guests.

Mini Veggie Samosas

A popular Trader Joe's appetizer, these two-bite samosas are filled with a curry-infused mixture of peas, carrots, potatoes, lentils, and onions. Wrapped in a flaky phyllo crust, the scent alone will have guests wandering toward the appetizer table.

Fried Olive Bites

These tiny bites only come out at the holidays and they are filled with cheese for the perfect bite on your appetizer buffet.

Brie en Croute

If you require an excuse to eat a brie en croute, we will give you one. This frozen Trader Joe's appetizer is only available during the holidays which means you have to grab at least one.

Red Pepper, Cranberry & Walnut Dip

This seasonal dip is a new Trader Joe's appetizer in 2022.

Sweet, spicy, and tart, this seasonal dip from Trader Joe's will make a statement at holiday parties this year. Add it to your charcuterie board and pair it with a crostini or veggies!

Herbaceous Cheesy Bites

We love these flavorful bites that pack a nice crunch. These have just the right amount of spices to balance out the cheesy goodness.

Chicken & Chimichurri Empanadas

Bake these up in your oven and serve with your favorite salsa and you will have some happy guests at your next family party.

Pastry Bites with Feta Cheese & Caramelized Onions

We love these any time of the year as they are easy to crisp up in your oven and are perfectly bite-sized.

Crispy Vegetable Pouches

These only come out around the holidays and are a delicious, vegetable-forward option.

Korean Pancakes

Perfect for brunch, these cinnamon-filled Korean pancakes are flaky, chewy and irresistible. Kids and adults will love each and every bite.

Find them in the freezer aisle.

Coconut Shrimp

These are a kid favorite and perfect when served with the Thai Sweet Ginger Sauce for dipping.

Chicken Cilantro Mini Wontons

These are great pan-fried or boiled and the kids will definitely gobble them up.

Breaded Fried Ravioli

You had us at "fried!" Kid-friendly and easy to whip up, these fried ravioli are made with semolina pasta, and five kinds of cheese that includes ricotta, mild Monterey Jack, mozzarella, Asiago and Parmesan.

Kibbeh

Hearty and flavorful, this Kibbeh appetizer will become a family fave. Made with ground beef, onions and seasonings, these meatballs pair well with almost any dip.

Find for just $4.79 in the freezer section.

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Chicken Soup Dumplings

While these are technically an appetizer, we see nothing wrong with whipping up the entire box for dinner! Each one of these chicken soup dumplings is made with chicken, onions, green onions and a flavorful broth and can be found in the freezer section.

Mini Quiche Duo

Perfect for brunch or lunch, this box of mini quiche duos includes both mushroom and Swiss cheese and bacon and sweet onion options. Bake until golden brown, and enjoy thoroughly.

Each box is just $3.99 in the freezer section.

Creamy Spinach & Artichoke Dip

Forget making your own spinach artichoke dip, and snag this frozen version instead! All it takes is a simple warm-up before you're enjoying it with tortilla chips. This is a nice change to the traditional onion dips you find at family get-togethers.

You can't beat the $2.99 price tag on this dip!

The Most Popular Halloween Costumes for Kids in 2023

by Kate CartiaOctober 19, 2023

We’ve rounded up the most popular kids’ Halloween costumes of 2023 (for kids of all ages!)

Halloween is right around the corner, and that means it’s time to start thinking about kids’ Halloween costumes! Movies, TV shows, video games, and some tried and true classic Halloween costumes always seem to inspire the year’s most popular costumes. So, of course, we’ve got Barbie, Mario, Stitch, and Thor, along with lots more favorites. We’ve also made sure to divide them up by age and popularity, but there aren’t any rules. After all, it’s Halloween. These are also the costumes that tend to fly off the shelves the fastest, so unless you plan to make your own costumes this year, you’ll want to snag one of them before it’s too late.

New Kids Halloween Costumes for 2023

'Super Mario Bros.' Mario Costume

Mario Bros is a popular kids halloween costume in 2023 — HalloweenCostumes.com

With the hit movie making waves this past spring, the '90s kids' fave Super Mario Bros. is more popular than ever. Available in kids sizes 4-12 and includes a jumpsuit, hat, pair of gloves, and, of course, a mustache!

Super Mario Bros. Mario Costume ($39.99-$44.99)—Buy Here!

'Barbie Movie' Cowgirl Costume

Barbie is a popular kids halloween costume in 2023 — HalloweenCostumes.com

Hi, Barbie! You had to know the iconic Cowgirl look from the hit Barbie Movie would be here, but we're not at all mad about it. This set comes with a jumpsuit and bandana, but keep an eye out for the matching cowboy hat that's coming soon!

Barbie Movie Cowgirl Costume ($54.99)—Buy Here!

Captain Marvel

Officially licensed and covered with the perfect details, this Captain Marvel costume will make your little one feel like they can take on the world (because of course, they can). It comes in sizes S-XL and includes the jumpsuit, belt, and mask.

Captain Marvel ($39.99-$69.99)—Buy Here!

Inflatable Alien

Aliens are sort of having a moment this year, but we're also into one-and-done easy kids' Halloween costumes. It inflates fast and stays that way, so all they have to do is step into it and go!

Inflatable Alien ($32.99)—Buy Here!

The Little Mermaid

It's hard to argue with a beautiful costume that only requires a fork as the perfect accessory (though you could totally add this awesome wig or this beautiful 2023 Ariel wig to create the whole mermaid vibe). This costume includes the sparkly dress and is available in sizes XS-XL.

The Little Mermaid ($49.99)—Buy Here!

Glow-in-the-Dark Witch

It's the Season of the Witch, and they simply never go out of style. This one from PBK is designed with a cool web pattern on the hat and dress that glows when the lights go out, and 3D spiders crawl up the cape (why doesn't this come in adult sizes, we ask?!). The set includes a dress, cape, and hat and is available in sizes 3T-8Y.

Glow-in-the-Dark Witch ($89.00)—Buy Here!

Ninja Warrior

Kids will always love ninjas and some of them dream of using their skills for good. Keep them agile with this Ninja Warrior costume, and consider using their costume choice as a chance to explain what being a ninja entailed historically. Encouraging research and learning leads to kiddos who are dressing as a historical figure/character versus a culture. How a costume is worn matters, according to Yuko Kaifu, president of Japan House in Los Angeles. This costume comes in sizes XXS-L and includes a jumpsuit, mask, belt, and throwing star.

Ninja Warrior ($24.99-$29.99)—Buy Here!

Pokémon

Pikachu is a popular kids Halloween costume in 2023 — Amazon

A cute Pokémon that's also super soft makes this costume a solid choice! Includes a velvet minky jumpsuit with a tail and headpiece.

Pokémon ($26.50)—Buy Here!

Among Us

Among Us has been popular for a long time, so it's no surprise it made the list again in 2023. This costume self-inflates fast and allows for vision and free hands, too! Comes in 4 colors/characters.

Among Us ($44.97)—Buy Here!

'A League of Their Own' Dottie

If you have a little slugger on your hands or just a kid who's all about girl power, Dottie Green is an easy pick! It's also a super cute group costume idea. It comes with a dress, hat, belt, and socks in sizes XS-XL.

A League of Their Own Dottie ($39.99)—Buy Here!

Optimus Prime

How epic is this Transformers costume? With a jumpsuit, chest piece, and mask, we think it'll easily win the costume contest.

Optimus Prime ($49.99)—Buy Here!

Grogu

The draw of Baby Yoda never gets old, and he gets even more precious when your little one portrays him. This one comes with a robe and headpiece.

Grogu ($49.99)—Buy Here!

L.O.L. Surprise Diva

Their favorite L.O.L. Surprise characters are here just in time for Halloween! They can pick between Diva and Queen Bee. Diva (pictured) comes with a dress, underskirt, belt, headband with bow, wig, and surprise gift!

L.O.L. Surprise Diva ($47.10)—Buy Here!

Most Popular Halloween Costumes for 2T-4T

Gabby's Dollhouse

There's a good chance your kiddo will want to wear this, Halloween or not. It comes with a jumpsuit and headband in sizes 2T-4T.

Gabby's Dollhouse ($24.96)—Buy Here!

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

2023 is seriously the year for blockbuster movies our kiddos can't get enough of, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are back and better than ever. The Donatello costume comes with a jumpsuit, mask, elbow pads, knee pads, shell backpack, and a belt. It comes in sizes XS-L.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles ($39.99-$44.99)—Buy Here!

Paw Patrol

What kiddo doesn't want to save the day? Whether they choose Chase or one of the other Paw Patrol pups, they'll be cute and cozy, too! It comes with a jumpsuit (that includes mitts and shoe covers ) and a backpack. Available in sizes 4T-L.

Paw Patrol ($49.99-$59.99)—Buy Here!

Bluey

We love Bluey around here, and we're guessing your little ones do, too. This jumpsuit with an attached tail and headpiece is available in sizes 2T-6T.

Bluey ($39.99)—Buy Here!

Light-Up T-Rex

This dino fave comes with battery-operated LED lights in the spikes on the head for a legendary costume. It's available in sizes 2T-6 and comes with a jumpsuit and headpiece (though you can be extra and add this fabulous matching prehistoric treat bag!)

Light-Up T-Rex ($89.00)—Buy Here!

Stitch

Everyone loves Stitch, and this sweet costume is just as plush as the character! We also love that it's a one-piece jumpsuit that just requires a zip-up.

Stitch ($39.99)—Buy Here!

Most Popular Costumes for Ages 4-6

Ms. Marvel

There are so many reasons to love Ms. Marvel, and her shape-shifting powers are no match for her foes. The costume includes a tunic with an attached scarf, pants with boot-tops, and an eye mask.

Ms. Marvel ($45.99)—Buy Here!

Thor: Love and Thunder

God of Thunder (or maybe your little lightning bolt)? We got you covered with this costume. It includes a full cape, an armor belt, a pair of gauntlets, and a jumpsuit.

Thor: Love and Thunder ($35.00)—Buy Here!

Lightyear

Your Space Ranger's imagination will soar to "infinity and beyond" in this Buzz Lightyear costume. It features all the intergalactic essentials needed to defeat Emperor Zurg in no time, including light-up wings! Includes bodysuit, wings, gloves, and headwear.

Lightyear ($44.99)—Buy Now!

Minion

We're pretty sure Minions will be one of the most popular costumes for kiddos for a long time, and with good reason. This little union suit is great for younger kiddos since it's another one-and-done.

Minion ($19.99)—Buy Here!

'Encanto' Mirabel

If you've been humming 'The Family Madrigal' for months, then Encanto is probably a family favorite. The Mirabel costume includes a beautiful dress and signature glasses.

Encanto Mirabel ($36.99)—Buy Here!

Spider-Gwen

Too cool for just one name, she is known as Gwen Stacy, Ghost-Spider, and Spider-Gwen. Whichever name your kiddo prefers, this authentic Marvel Spider-Gwen costume will help them launch Halloween into the Spiderverse. This one comes with a hooded bodysuit, mask, and gloves.

Spider-Gwen ($54.99)—Buy Here!

'Black Panther' Shuri

T'Challa may be the Black Panther, but even powerful superhero brothers need their little sisters to help them out of sticky situations every now and then. It comes with a bodysuit, armbands, and gauntlets.

Black Panther Shuri ($39.99)—Buy Here!

Most Popular Costumes for Ages 6-10

Cuphead

1950s-style Cuphead is the silly vintage costume they'll have a blast wearing. It comes with a mask, jumpsuit, and pair of gloves in sizes XS-XL.

Cuphead ($44.99)—Buy Here!

Minecraft Armour

Another year, another popular Minecraft kid's Halloween costume! These blocky looks aren't going anywhere, and we really appreciate the square helmet to give the cubic look they love without a mask (that they might love a little less). It comes with an authentic 3D top, pants, and headpiece in kids sizes S-L.

Minecraft Armour ($44.99)—Buy Here!

Obi-Wan Kenobi

What kid wouldn't want to be a Jedi Master? This Obi-Wan costume includes a hooded robe, tunic, pants, belt, and shoe cover!

Obi-Wan Kenobi ($31.99)—Buy Here!

'Hocus Pocus' Sanderson Sisters

Sisters! Perfect as a group costume or let them pick their favorite from Winifred, Mary, or Sarah Sanderson. Costume includes a sleeveless tutu dress with add-ons available to create the perfect look to put a spell on everyone they meet.

Hocus Pocus Sanderson Sisters ($54.99)—Buy Here!

'Miraculous' Ladybug

The lovely Ladybug from Miraculous is as heroic as she is awesome! This costume comes with a jumpsuit, gloves, eye mask, and iconic blue wig. Since the full-feature movie just dropped on Netflix, we're betting this kids' Halloween costume will be everywhere

Miraculous Ladybug ($49.99)—Buy Here!

'Top Gun'

Your little Maverick will be totally ready to take flight in this costume! Add a pair of aviator glasses to the flight suit and let them pick from the included interchangeable patches.

Top Gun ($38.18)—Buy Here!

Most Popular Kids’ Halloween Costumes for Ages 10-13

'Fortnite' Drift Twofer

Let them dance their way into Spooky Season with this Drift Twofer costume, including the signature kitsune mask. Add the included jacket and gloves and they're ready to go.

Fortnite Drift Twofer ($29.99)—Buy Here!

Wednesday Addams Party Costume

Wednesday Addams is a popular kids Halloween costume in 2023 — Amazon

They'll be able to dance dance dance from house to house trick-or-treating in style with this ruffly party dress inspired by our favorite braided beauty, Wednesday Addams. This set comes with a dress, belt, socks, and braided wig and is available in sizes 4-13 years.

Wednesday Addams Party Costume ($39.99)—Buy Here!

'Stranger Things' Robin

Robin totally rocked the Video Stop on Stranger Things and managed to defend Hawkins in her spare time. This kids' Halloween costume comes with a jacket + attached vest and a tie.

Stranger Things Robin ($34.99-$39.99)—Buy Here!

'Spy x Family' Anya Forger

If your kiddo is an anime fan, they'll adore this Anya Forger costume! It includes a dress, socks, hair accessories, and a fantastic pink wig.

Spy x Family Anya Forger ($32.99)—Buy Here!

Addison Alien with Light-Up Skirt

In true Addison style, this costume lights up for a true out-of-this-world style. The set has a printed jumpsuit, light-up skirt, and belt. We love the great wig, too (sold separately here!).

Addison Alien ($45.00)—Buy Here!

Macaroni and Cheese

One of their favorite foods makes for one heck of a cool costume! A hooded shirt with an attached cup also makes this super easy.

Macaroni and Cheese ($49.99)—Buy Here!

LED Stick Figure

These fun stick figure kids' Halloween costumes have become super popular; probably because they look great at night. The costume comes with a jumpsuit, mask, gloves, and battery pack.

LED Stick Figure ($44.99)—Buy Here!

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

The Best Baby Carriers for Little Ones on the Move

by Kate CartiaSeptember 26, 2023

There’s no shortage of baby carriers out there. But what if you want to, y’know, be comfortable while using one? Ah, there’s the catch. Parents can be discouraged from babywearing thanks to baby carrier bad press like getting too hot, back pain, inconvenience, not to mention the safety issues that can come from improperly wearing certain carriers. All of that can make it sound all sound pretty daunting and unappealing. But not to worry! The right baby carrier makes all the difference. And the best baby carriers are life-changing!

Finding the best baby carrier that keeps you and your precious cargo comfy and cool can be a chore, but we’ve done the work for you! We’re sure we’ve found the perfect baby carrier for you on this list. We’ve found carriers in all different styles and fabrics, as well as a wide-range of age-appropriateness. So buckle up and get ready for Babywearing 101.

BabyBjörn Baby Carrier Mini

BabyBjörn is one of the most trusted names in baby carriers, and this almost-5-star-rated Baby Carrier Mini proves why. Designed for 0-12 months and 7-24lbs, it's easy to put on and take off, it's soft, snug, and simple to use. It offers the perfect amount of support for your little one and is super comfy for you!

BabyBjörn Baby Carrier Mini ($109.99)—Buy Here!

Solly Baby Wrap

Reduce infant crying, increase connection, and enjoy hands-free wearing in our buttery-soft and breathable Solly Wrap. Even weight distribution makes the Solly Baby Wrap so comfortable for both baby and the wearer, year round. Available in multiple colors and prints! 8-25 lbs

Solly Baby Wrap ($69.00)—Buy Here!

Ergobaby Aerloom

The Aerloom Carrier is designed with comfort in mind. The seamless knit technology, FormaKnit, is lightweight, and the Aerloom is ergonomic in all carrying modes for baby, and offers curved straps and lumbar support for you. Ages 0-3 years, 7-35 lbs.

Ergobaby Aerloom Carrier ($249.00)—Buy Here!

Ergobaby Embrace

The Ergobaby Embrace Carrier is simple and cozy for your newborn. There are no complicated wraps or buckles, keeps you both cool and dry, and easily rolls up to slip into your diaper bag! 0-12 months, 7-25 lbs.

Ergobaby Embrace Carrier ($99.00)—Buy Here!

Tushbaby Hip Seat

woman holding baby on hip using hip carrier

If you're ready to rock the hip carry, we've got the carrier for you. The Tushbaby Hip Seat offers four carrying positions in one! The Tushbaby is like having an extra arm to support your little and frees you up for moving without the strain a traditional hip carry can cause. 0-36 months, 8-35 lbs.

Tushbaby Hip Seat Carrier ($84.99)—Buy Here!

Ergobaby Four Position 360

Man carrying baby in front facing carrier

The 360 is the next step after your little outgrows their wrap or newborn carrier. This one is great for older babies, and provides extra lumbar support for you to keep you comfy as your baby grows! 4-36 months, 12-45 lbs.

Ergobaby 360 Carrier ($119.00)—Buy Here!

Chicco Smartsupport Backpack

Chicco's Smartsupport Backpack is ideal for carrying growing kiddos. Including a 5-point harness, adjustable canopy for shade, and a padded backrest, the SmartSupport also makes sure you stay comfy while wearing it. The lightweight aluminum frame combined with padded shoulder straps and extra ventilation make this a great go-to carrier! 6 months and up, up to 40 lbs.

Chicco SmartSupport Backpack ($149.99)—Buy Here!

Boppy ComfyHug Hybrid

Designed with NICU experts, the ComfyHug Hybrid ensures a safe and comfortable newborn carrier option! Its hardware-free structure is made to keep your baby cozy and secure, and it's adjustable for everyone to wear easily. Newborn and up, 5-20 lbs.

The Boppy ComfyHug Hybrid Carrier (59.99)—Buy Here!

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

27 Red, White & Blue Recipes to Make for the 4th of July

by Abigail MatsumotoJune 14, 2023

Show off your patriotic pride with playful food creations that are deceptively simple

The 4th of July is a day of parades, fireworks, and lots of celebrating with friends and family. Make the holiday extra special by whipping up a few festive appetizers, snacks, and some creative dessert ideas, too. From red, white, and blue dips to wow-worthy cookies and cakes, we’ve gathered up a bunch of red, white, and blue recipes to make your day next-level amazing. For the kids, check out these 4th of July crafts that’ll keep them busy while you prep.

Greek Yogurt Popsicles

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A post shared by Erin Clarke | Easy Healthy Recipes (@wellplated)

Of all the sweet treats to serve on the 4th of July, these are light and delicious. They don’t take long, and they”ll cool off your crowd.

Frozen Berry Muffins

https://www.instagram.com/p/CPbZi5ZpnK1/?hidecaption=true

These frozen berry muffins are a great way to use up that fruit sitting in the freezer. This tasty recipe is so simple, you’ll be enjoying the 4th of July in no time.

Red, White, and Blue Pastries

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A post shared by Jeanne Ponessa Fratello (@jollytomato)

Not only is this gorgeous treat perfect for patriotic holidays, but it is also delicious!

Red, White & Blueberry Almond Frozen Yogurt Bites

red white & blue recipes for 4th of July — Katie Kick via Good Life Eats

Perfect for a hot holiday, these adorable mini frozen yogurt bites have plenty of healthy fruit too. With no added sugar (just vanilla Greek yogurt), and a crunchy nut bottom, make a batch ahead of time and pull out right before the fireworks go off. Get this red, white, and blue recipe from Katie Kick over at Good Life Eats.

Red, White, and Blue Skillet S’mores

A skillet with toasted marshmallows, strawberries and blueberries for Memorial Day — 3 Scoops of Sugar

Ready for a s’mores recipe that will knock your patriotic socks off? This simple idea from 3 Scoops of Sugar, which is full of strawberries, bananas, and blueberries, will give a new twist to your s’more expectations! It’s extra festive and easy to pull off with your handy dandy skillet.

Patriotic Push Pop Cake

red, white and blue recipe for push pops — Love from the Oven

For an adorable dessert that won’t require you to turn on the oven, you’ve got to make these push-pop cakes from Love from the Oven. With some store-bought pound cake and colorful frosting, this 4th of July recipe will come together in no time.

American Flag Cheese Plate

A tray of fruit, cheese and crackers for Memorial Day — The Kitchen Prep

Get inspired by The Kitchen Prep to make a festive cheese plate for your holiday bash. It’s easy to customize to fit your family’s tastes and makes a delicious appetizer before your barbecued feast.

Patriotic White Chocolate Pretzels

Pretzel sticks drizzled with white chocolate and patriotic sprinkles for 4th of July — Beyond the Chicken Coop

Get the kiddos involved in making these fun chocolate-covered pretzels from Beyond the Chicken Coop. They’ll love decorating each one with a splash of sprinkles.

Flag Parmesan Garlic Chip Dip

Red, white and blue recipe for parmesan garlic dip for 4th of July — The Creative Bite

We’re obsessed with this dip idea from The Creative Bite—the cutest appetizer ever! Pair blue corn chips with a garlic parmesan dip and cherry tomatoes, and you’ve got a flag-inspired appetizer that your whole crew will love.

Patriotic Cake Cookies

red, white and blue recipe for cookies — Tuxedo Cats and Coffee

These cookies from Tuxedo Cats and Coffee are everything we want from a patriotic dessert: easy, delicious, and pretty. They’re made using cake mix, so you don’t have to be a baking expert to pull off this one.

4th of July Cake

red white and blue recipe for a USA cake — Jacks & Kate

We’re gaga for this uber-creative cake. It’s colorful, fruitful, and doesn’t require any fancy cake pans—really! Now that’s what we call a show-stopping red, white, and blue recipe. Find out how to carve your own country over at Jacks & Kate.

Vegan Watermelon Cake

A vegan red white and blue cake made out of watermelon — Abbey’s Kitchen

Looking for a red, white, and blue recipe that’s vegan, low-calorie, gluten-free, and totally wow-worthy? You’re in luck because this watermelon cake fits the red, white, and blue recipe bill! Learn how to make your own at Abbey’s Kitchen.

Patriotic Pancake Stacks

Mini pancakes with whipped cream, strawberries and blueberries for Memorial Day — Modern Parents Messy Kids

Serve up the breakfast of champions with this perfect patriotic pancake idea. Think kid-sized pancake stacks, fresh berries, and a healthy dollop of whip cream. Yum! Get the full scoop at Modern Parents Messy Kids.

Vanilla Cream Fruit Tart

We love how this fruit tart is equal parts sweet and creamy. (Psst! The crust uses coconut oil, which adds an extra dose of delicious flavor.) Visit Homemade Food Junkie for the full recipe details.

Patriotic Mocktail

A red, white and blue mocktail for Memorial Day — The Merry Thought

We're awarding major points to this drink for having a patriotic presentation AND being completely kid-friendly. Now that's something we can all toast to! Get the whole how-to at The Merry Thought.

Brownie Flag

red white and blue recipe for brownie cake — Spicy Southern Kitchen

This sweet, red, white, and blue recipe couldn't be easier (hint: the prep time is only 15 minutes!). You can even make the brownies from a store-bought mix. Get the full lowdown on this jaw-dropping idea at Spicy Southern Kitchen.

Cheesecake Popsicles

Give the traditional popsicle a patriotic makeover! This idea has granita-like fruit layers and a rich cheesecake center you won't be able to resist. For the full rundown, visit The Midnight Baker.

Watermelon Star Bites

Do as we say: put down the melon baller. These star bites burst with flavor and will be a hit at your BBQ. Bonus: it's easy to get your kids involved in making this treat. Hop on over to Weelicious for easy instructions.

Flag Candy-Coated Pretzels

pretzels covered in white chocolate and sprinkles to look like the American flag for Memorial Day — Poca Cosa

These treats are a little salty, a little sweet, and great to munch on between backyard games. We dare you to stop at one. Thanks to Poca Cosa for sharing these awesome patriotic treats.

Red, White, and Blueberry Salad

red white and blue recipe for a festive salad — Shared Appetite

Give your standard caprese salad a blueberry upgrade. Remember: if you're short on time before your big BBQ you can always prep the ingredients in advance. Get the full red, white, and blue recipe over at Shared Appetite.

Kettle Corn

Major props to Food Pusher for this easy patriotic kettle corn. Simply pop your popcorn like you normally would and add food coloring. Voila! You've got yourself a bag of red, white, and blue bite-sized treats.

Watermelon and Blueberry Salad with Feta

red white and blue salad recipe for patriotic holidays — Wholesomelicious

This refreshing salad only takes 15 minutes to make but the result is totally memorable. The full recipe can be found at Wholesomelicious.

Independence Punch

red white and blue punch for Memorial Day — Big Bear's Wife

Summer games can build up quite a thirst! This patriotic punch uses cranberry juice, your favorite blue-colored sports drink, sparkling water (or a diet clear soda), and ice. Check out the red, white, and blue recipe (and quench everyone's thirst) at Big Bear's Wife.

Red, White, and Blue Trifles

Here’s the lowdown on this oh-so-pretty trifle: it’s got angel food cake squares, fresh blueberries and a fresh cherry sauce that’s easy to make. And if you want to top it all off with a dollop of freshly whipped cream? Well, we wouldn’t blame you at all. Boulder Locavore has the full trifle scoop, so click on over ASAP.

Red, White & Blue Potato Salad

red white and blue potato salad for Memorial Day — Proud Italian Cook

Potato salad is pretty much a requirement at any summer holiday picnic, but why not give this classic dish its own patriotic twist? With the help of some colorful spuds and a drizzle of olive oil, you can whip this up in no time. Get inspired to make your own over at Proud Italian Cook.

Dairy Free Pops

dairy free red, white and blue popsicles for Memorial day — Pass the Plants

These delicious popsicles from Pass the Plants are not only an easy red, white, and blue recipe to make, but they're also dairy free. Beth from Pass the Plants shares some great tips for getting them just right!

Fruit Sparklers

One of our fave summer fruits gets to be the "star" of the show with these fun patriotic sparklers! Leave it to Emily from One Lovely Life to come up with this fantastic way to serve fruit at your BBQ.

Here’s Why Celebrities Are Turning to Cord Blood Banking

by Marianella OrlandoJune 13, 2023

Famous figures like Chrissy Teigen are preserving their baby’s newborn stem cells as potential protection for their family’s future health.

Chrissy Teigen¹is an open book with her personal life. She’s shared her fertility challenges and IVF journey, she’s self-published a very raw essay about pregnancy loss, she’s given a behind-the-scenes look at mom life, and she’s even opened up about postpartum struggles.

Now, with the recent birth of her daughter Esti, the cookbook author and TV personality is once again providing the inside scoop on her family. This time on why she chose to collect and preserve both the cord blood and cord tissue from her umbilical cord at birth, a process known as newborn stem cell preservation.

As a big proponent of placing health and wellness at the center of her household, Teigen called this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity an “obvious choice” that could potentially help protect the future health of her three children.

Her belief in the potential long-term benefits of cord blood banking has since led to her partnership with Cord Blood Registry^® (CBR^®), the largest private newborn stem cell preservation company in the world.²

“Science is always advancing […] That whole world has always been so fascinating to me, and I’ve always wanted to be a part of it,” Teigen explained to POPSUGAR. “It’s really important for me to let other people know that this is an option and it’s something that they can do to keep their families safe and healthy for years to come.”

Keep reading to discover more about how newborn stem cell preservation with CBR may potentially help benefit your children and family’s health in the future.

Newborn Stem Cells A.K.A the Body’s Own Repair Kit

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A post shared by chrissy teigen (@chrissyteigen)

Every infant’s umbilical cord is made of tissue and contains blood. At birth, a small amount of each is still available from the umbilical cord—what’s commonly referred to as cord blood and cord tissue.

While cord blood and cord tissue are commonly collected right after a baby is born, some parents choose to leave the umbilical cord attached to their baby for a little longer, prior to clamping. This allows more time for the cord blood to flow back to their baby before collecting the newborn stem cells—a process known as delayed cord clamping.

No matter if parents decide to proceed with clamping at birth or prefer to wait until a later time, the cord blood and cord tissue are still rich in valuable newborn stem cells that have the potential to help the body heal and repair itself.

Two primary types of newborn stem cells can be obtained from cord blood and cord tissue: hematopoietic stem cells and mesenchymal stem cells. Hematopoietic stem cells, which are found in cord blood, act as blood-forming cells with the ability to self-renew. On the other hand, mesenchymal stem cells (contained in cord tissue) play a large role in experimental regenerative medicine applications, which may one day help heal and repair tissues due to its anti-inflammatory effects.²

By preserving newborn stem cells, families may have the opportunity to use them in the future. Infants are a 100% genetic match for their own stem cells and full siblings have a 75% chance of being at least a partial match.

Within the last three decades, cord blood stem cells have been used in over 45,000 stem cell transplants.³ Science continues to advance, and what we know now is that cord blood can be used to treat over 80 conditions, including blood disorders, certain cancers, immune disorders, and metabolic disorders.⁴

CBR: Leading the Cord Blood Industry

Before the birth of baby Esti, Teigen had her go-to hospital supplies prepped and ready to go. The then-mom of two, who was well-versed in packing a baby bag, made sure to not forget one important item, her CBR collection kit—which she added was “next to the swaddles and everything else.”

“We handed it over right in that [delivery] room,” CBR mom Teigen recalled in an interview with PEOPLE. “[The doctor] popped it open, opened a little cup, and then it was done. It couldn’t have been easier.”

Teigen, who’s preserved all three of her children’s cord blood, isn’t the only celebrity backing cord blood banking with CBR. Board-certified OB/GYN, CBR spokesperson and cord blood expert Dr. Christine Sterling has also publicly voiced the benefits of preserving newborn stem cells, while Something Navy founder Arielle Charnas and former American soccer star Kealia Watt have each shared their own stories of banking their children’s cord blood with CBR.⁵

Since storing over one million cord blood and cord tissue stem cell units, CBR has released over 700 cord blood units for families intended for use in life-saving transplants and other investigational therapies.⁶

“As a mom, I want to make sure our children have every possible option available to them,” Teigen said. “I was confident in partnering with CBR, as they are the #1 choice for parents⁶ and the most recommended cord blood preservation company by OB/GYNs.”⁷

CBR’s process of collecting newborn stem cells is simple and safe. Upon enrollment, a CBR kit is sent to your home with everything needed for collection. All you have to do is take the kit with you to the hospital (make sure to add it to your baby bag like Teigen!) where your OB/GYN or midwife handles the collection process.

After the collection, contact the provided 24/7 medical courier number to ship your kit to CBR’s lab in Arizona where it will be processed and stored.

This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity can give you peace of mind that you’ve potentially helped protect your family’s future.

For more information on cord blood banking and how it may be able to help you and your children, visit cordblood.com.

¹Chrissy Teigen is a CBR paid ambassador.
²Fan, XL., Zhang, Y., Li, X. et al. Mechanisms underlying the protective effects of mesenchymal stem cell-based therapy. Cell. Mol. Life Sci. 77, 2771–2794 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00018-020-03454-6.⁵Dr. Christine Sterling, Ariella Charnas and Kealia Watt are paid CBR influencers.
³Wagner JE. Cord blood 2.0: state of the art and future directions in transplant medicine. Blood Res. 2019 Mar;54(1):7-9. doi: 10.5045/br.2019.54.1.7. Epub 2019 Mar 21. PMID: 30956957; PMCID: PMC6439299.
⁴Mayani, H., Wagner, J.E. & Broxmeyer, H.E. Cord blood research, banking, and transplantation: achievements, challenges, and perspectives. Bone Marrow Transplant 55, 48–61 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41409-019-0546-9.
⁵Dr. Christine Sterling, Ariella Charnas and Kealia Watt are paid CBR influencers.
⁶CBR’s internal data on file.
⁷Blind survey, Egg Strategy, 10/19, funded by CBR.

The use of cord blood is determined by the treating physician and is influenced by many factors, including the patient’s medical condition, the characteristics of the sample, and whether the cord blood should come from the patient or an appropriately matched donor. Cord blood has established uses in transplant medicine; however, its use in regenerative medicine is still being researched. There is no guarantee that potential medical applications being studied in the laboratory or clinical trials will become available.

Cord tissue use is still in early research stages, and there is no guarantee that treatments using cord tissue will be available in the future. Cord tissue is stored whole. Additional processing prior to use will be required to extract and prepare any of the multiple cell types from cryopreserved cord tissue. Cbr Systems, Inc.’s activities for New York State residents are limited to collection of umbilical cord tissue and long-term storage of umbilical cord–derived stem cells. Cbr Systems, Inc.’s possession of a New York State license for such collection and long-term storage does not indicate approval or endorsement of possible future uses or future suitability of these cells.

23 Road Trip Hacks That’ll Save Your Sanity

by Ayren Jackson-CannadyJune 7, 2023

These brilliant ideas will help you survive—and even enjoy—your next family adventure

When it comes to a road trip, it’s often about how you get there, not where you’re going. Make sure that journey is memorable for the right reasons with a few tips and road trip hacks we’ve road-tested ourselves. They might not prevent the inevitable “Are we there yet?” but we know they will ease some of the other trials of taking a long car ride with kids. And to mix it up, try our list of car games when they need a break from the screens!

1. Give the kids the map. Hand over your GPS during times of the trip when you actually know where you are going. Let the kids “navigate” and tell you which way to turn. Or hand them a road map and have them help figure out the route. Get tips on teaching kids how to read a REAL map here.

2. Bring enough headphones for each kid. It will ward off any complaining or whining. If your crew likes to listen to or watch the same thing, try BuddyPhones, kid headphones that come with an audio splitter for sharing.

3. Surprise observations. During the trip, have each person write down an observation or memory from the day. If you’re traveling more than one day, do it each day of the journey, there and back. Don’t share what you’ve written until you are home. Then have each family member read out loud their main “thought” for the day. It’s okay if it’s, “I wish we were there” or “I saw a giant clown on the side of the road.” You’ll get some laughs and relive the trip in a new way.

4. Use a shower caddy for mess-free eating. Tired of balancing lunch on your lap? Give each kid—and yourself—a caddy so that meals are contained in one neat place.

5. Stash plastic cutlery and napkins in the glove box. It’ll make eating in the car that much easier.

6. Make a killer playlist. It can make or break a road trip. Trust us. Find family friendly tunes, starting here.

7. Beat the sniffles. Use a rubber band to lash a full tissue box to an empty one. Use the empty one to dispose of used tissues right after using, so they don’t end up all over the car/on the floor/in your snacks.

8. Make up some car bingo. Purchase a stack of ready-made car bingo games, or go the simple route by making a “checklist” of cool things you see on the road. The first person to fill up a checklist gets to pick where you make a pit stop for dinner.

9. Hang a shoe organizer on the back of each front seat. Big kids will be able to reach for books, snacks, and games on their own (and ideally they’ll be able to put everything back, too).

campers in an RV using road trip hacks — Adam Clark

10. Kick off your shoes. For long rides, many kids like to take their shoes off. Let them, but have a bag handy to stash the shoes or keep them by the door of your RV, so they’re easy to find for pit stops.

11. Download Sit or Squat. You’ll be able to scout clean bathrooms on your route. This is a road trip hack you can’t live without.

12. Chuck garbage into a plastic cereal container or old wipes box. They usually have lids so your vehicle won’t smell like Eau de trash. Put them throughout your RV or car!

13. Pack clothes in stackable laundry baskets (instead of suitcases). The idea is that each traveler has their own basket filled with clothes and other belongings (diapers, lovey, etc.). It’s much easier to see if you’re forgetting anything and it’s a cinch to load and unload.

14. For impatient travelers, use “Sticky Note Time Tabs.” How it works: Write increments of time (i.e. 1:15, 2:15, 3:15) on sticky notes and adhere them to the center console below the clock. Kids pay attention to when the clock time matches the sticky note time. When they notice it, you remove the sticky note (and give them a surprise, if you’re feeling generous).

15. Organize a glow stick dance party while driving at night. There’s nothing fun to see out the windows, so might as well bring the fun inside your vehicle. Hip hop hooray to kiddos’ fave tunes and score major brownie points for your efforts.

16. Cover seats with a fitted sheet. Be prepared for a mess by stretching a sheet over the seats. When you get to where you’re going all you have to do is shake the sheet out and BAM!… your ride is spotless once more. One of our more genius road trip hacks if we don’t say so ourselves.

17. Make edible necklaces for the journey. String flavorless floss with things like cereal, grapes, and pretzels. It will fill their bellies and keep them busy at the same time.

18. Get snap happy. Give the kids disposable cameras (or old smartphones) so that they can take pictures of what you’re driving by for a travel log.

19. Let the creative juices flow. Since playdough can get stuck in floorboards (and hair … and under fingernails), bring along a roll of aluminum foil and/or a box of pipe cleaners—both can be molded into shapes, animals, and skyscrapers.

20. Nip car sickness in the bud. If you or your kiddo gets nausea from reading on the road, simply tilt your head from side to side for it to go away. Just try it!

21. When you see a fun road stop… stop! This is how road trip memories are made. If you’re the planning type, visit roadtrippers.com to map out a few awesome layovers, and be sure to check out our favorite roadside attractions, too.

22. Pack a potty. This is an important road trip hack if you’ve got potty-trained littles: Open and lay a disposable diaper into the bottom of a toddler potty. If you’ve got miles to go before the next rest stop, pull over and let them use this—the diaper will soak up a #1 and contain a #2 until you find a proper spot for disposal.

23. Have plenty of other screen-free activities on hand. When your kids are bored of playing car bingo (it’s inevitable), have something else from our list ready to go.

Husband Finally Realizes He’s Not the ‘Main Character’ in His Marriage

by Christina MarficeMay 8, 2023

This husband is going viral on TikTok for his late realization that he isn’t the “main character” in his marriage

Have you ever heard of sonder? It’s the idea that everyone in the world around you lives a life that’s just as complex as your own. It should seem like a pretty obvious thing, right? Except some people really think they’re the “main character” and that other people in their lives are just supporting actors—and that can even go for spouses. Now, this dad is going viral on TikTok for explaining in a video how he finally realized he isn’t the main character in his family, and it’s a message that so many men need to hear.

“One of the things I really try to process now as a middle-aged man is the full extent to which I really thought that I was the main character,” husband and dad J Fisher explains in his video.

@jfisher62

What NOT to do as a husband #fyp #husbandsoftiktok #wivesoftiktok #fairplay #parenting #feminism #dismantlethepatriarchy #relationship #marriage #support #partnering

♬ original sound – J Fisher

He then offers an example from early in his marriage.

“Say we’d be going on a trip, my partner at that point in time would be doing the laundry, vacuuming the house, making sure the dishes were done,” he says. “I would think, I would literally think like, Well, yeah, we don’t have to do that. That’s you wanting to do that. It’s not what I want to do.”

Fisher then explains how, while his wife did all of that, he would pack a suitcase or backpack with his clothes and the books he wanted to read, and then he’d think, I’m ready to go!

“Looking back, like… how could I possibly think that was okay?” he asks in the video.

Fisher also explains that once he and his wife had kids, his main character energy became even more apparent.

“When we had kids, I didn’t stop, right? My partner would do all the work to get all of them ready to make sure they were bathed, snacks packed, and I would get myself ready,” he says. “I saw my own father do this quite a bit where he would take care of his own needs. So, I know I didn’t learn it from nowhere. But I also had to unlearn it because it never was okay. I thought that my role was to do all these things outside of the home and that the home was women’s domain. I saw that modeled and even taught as the way it should be, but, oh my gosh, is that not partnership? And that sucks.”

We know that Fisher’s attitude isn’t uncommon. Study after study shows that most women in heterosexual relationships carry more of the burden for household chores and childcare, even when both partners work full-time. And women are so often expected to be the “default parent,” in charge of carrying all the mental load of having kids.

If there’s a husband or dad in your life who needs to see this video, this is your sign to send it to him.

25 Parent-Approved Tips for Taking Baby to the Beach

by Katie TaylorMay 7, 2023

Make your fun in the sun time even better with these inventive baby beach hacks

Is there anything better than a sunny day at the beach with the kids? Sandcastle building, hole digging, and foot-burying goodness are what this family day is all about. But before you throw some sunscreen in a bag and head for the shore with your baby or toddler, familiarize yourself with these baby beach hacks and beach hacks for toddlers that’ll make your trip that much easier. These 25 smart-parent hacks (that include a few awesome beach gear ideas) will make ocean outings a cinch for your whole family. From why you should bring your own baby pool to the beach to a kitchen staple that removes sand like magic, these are the best baby beach hacks around.

1. Make a mini beach.
Pack a small inflatable pool and a beach umbrella (some pools even come with built-in shades) to keep your baby cool and contained at the beach. This is especially handy for new crawlers and babies who put everything, including sand and rocks, in their mouths. If you don’t have an inflatable pool, DIY one by digging a shallow hole, putting a shower curtain liner in it, and filling it with an inch of water.

2. Set a timer for SPF and liquids.
Set a timer on your phone so you know when it’s time to reapply sunscreen to your child (and yourself). Make sure you cover sensitive exposed spots like the tips of the ears and the back of the neck. Set another timer to remind you both to drink liquids so you don’t get dehydrated.

3. Load up your laundry basket.
Pack your beach gear in a roomy laundry basket. It will store all the towels, snacks, and toys you’re bringing, and wider baskets can double as a play area or napping spot for younger babies if you line it with extra-soft towels and keep it well-shaded. The best part? Sand will fall out of the holes as you pack up and leave, so you don’t bring the whole beach into your car.

4. Create a sand-free play area.
The best baby beach hack, right? We love this idea from the Team Johnson blog: Turn a fitted bedsheet upside down and place a bag or cooler in each of the four corners to keep the sheet extended and the sides up. The sides act as a barrier to sand and keep your curious baby from crawling away. You can also purchase a similar product from Sandy Bumz that is designed to stay upright even without items propped in the corner. The Sandy Bumz mat folds up compactly. Take it to the park and friends’ backyards too.

5. Pre-freeze snacks.
If your baby is eating solid foods, freeze a few food pouches and yogurt the night before your beach outing. They’ll turn a chilly, slushy consistency at the beach and will help keep your baby cool. They’ll also feel nice on sore gums if there’s teething going on.

6. Spray away the heat.
Sometimes shade isn’t enough to keep babies cool. Bring a small spray bottle filled with ice water to spray on your child at regular intervals and when those cheeks are looking flushed.

7. Remove sand with cornstarch.
This is a must-try: Cornstarch is a surprisingly effective way to remove sand from skin. Sprinkle it onto exposed skin and watch it do its magic. It works by drying skin so sand wipes off easily and painlessly. Talc-free baby powder works well too. Pack it in your beach bag or leave it in the car to sprinkle on before you all climb in.

8. Roll your load.
Bring your wagon or jogging stroller so you don’t have to carry all the baby beach gear you’re bringing. Pro tip: Dragging strollers backward is easier than pushing them forward in the sand.

9. Use a pop-up tent for naps.
Plan on staying at the shore all day? Consider buying a small pop-up tent so baby can sleep in a cozy shaded spot away from the sun and sand. Check out our favorite portable tents and play yards.

mom using baby beach hack by chilling sunscreen — iStock

10. Chill your sunscreen.
Stick the sunscreen in your cooler to keep it cold. When you re-apply at the beach, you’ll cool down baby’s body temperature too.

11. Sprinkle baking soda into a post-beach bath.
Despite our best efforts with sunscreen, floppy hats, and UPF-treated bathing suits, sometimes babies get a little too much sun. Soothe skin by adding a few sprinkles of baking soda to the bath that night. According to the Mayo Clinic, gently patting baby's skin with a clean towel dampened with cool tap water also provides relief.

12. Bring a stash of cool washcloths.
While you’re packing that cooler, add a few damp washcloths in a plastic bag. They’ll both clean up messes and cool you down when needed.

13. Skip expensive beach toys.
There’s so much for kids to see, touch and listen to at the beach, you don't need pricey beach toys. Bring a bucket and shovel set so your little one can explore the shapes and textures of sand, water, shells, and seaweed. If you want to take it up a notch, bring a watering can, bath toys, or small cars and trucks.

14. Use a mesh laundry bag for beach toys.
When you’re ready to go home, load beach toys into a mesh laundry bag. The sand will naturally fall out as you walk back to your car. When you get home, hose down the contents outside to clean them.

15. Freeze water bottles.
Place a few unopened water bottles in the freezer the day before your beach outing. The bottles act as ice packs to keep snacks and drinks cool, and you’ll have chilled water to drink at the beach.

16. Don’t forget the hat.
Keeping baby’s sensitive skin safe from the sun should be your number one priority at the beach. Bring a hat with a broad rim that not only covers your baby’s head but also ears and neck. Hats with a UPF+ sun rating offer extra protection.

17. Leave extra towels in the car.
Bring along a few extra towels and leave them in the car. They'll warm up in the sun to comfort wet, chilled bodies.

18. Keep it brief.
Plan your beach outing around nap times and meals to keep crankiness at a minimum. A shorter beach trip also means toting less stuff and less chance of sunburn, so it's all good all around.

19. Get a cooler on wheels.
A cooler with wheels and lots of storage pockets means you can load it up with everything you need while keeping your hands free for wrangling your child.

20. Bring a small fan.
If it’s not a windy day, connect a battery-powered mini-clip fan to your umbrella or other gear. This will help keep your baby’s body temperature down and give everybody some comfort in the heat. A misting fan is even better.

21. Create a sensory play experience.
Gather up shells and rocks with interesting textures and colors (choose larger items and provide plenty of supervision to avoid a choking hazard). Then pour some water on the sand so your little one can see and feel how sand changes when it gets wet.

22. Introduce new words.
You'll enrich baby’s vocabulary by pointing out boats, waves, beach balls and everything else you see at the beach. You can also write out the words in the sand while calling out each letter.

23. Keep sunburns at bay with UPF+ protection.
Sunscreen is key, but swimsuits and hats with UPF+ protection provide another important layer of protection. Reapply sunscreen to exposed body parts throughout the day and after being in the water.

24. Ditch your diaper bag.
Leave the diaper bag at home to keep it sand-free. Instead, buy an oversize beach bag and use a reusable bag for diapers and wipes. Pack a few plastic bags to hold soiled diapers.

25. Dig a hole.
Use baby’s shovels to dig a hole in the sand for baby to sit and play in. The sand in the hole will be cooler than the sand that was exposed to the sun. If you’re feeling crafty, shape a baby-size chair in the sand to give your kid a stylish seat.

20 Cheap (or Free!) Sidewalk Games to Keep the Kids Busy

by Kate LowethMay 4, 2023

Find all the fun you need in your own front yard

Keep this list in your back pocket for the dreaded day when the “I’m bored” sentiments take over your otherwise inquisitive child. These sidewalk games will get the kids outside and having fun as they include sidewalk chalk games, things to do with bubbles, new ways to use hula hoops, and more. Your front yard has never seen this much action, we are sure of it!

1. Set up your hopscotch. This one will bring you back to your school days. Using painter's tape or chalk, set up hopscotch and get ready to play!

2. Paint a pet rock. Paint and rocks are two ingredients that are easy to come by for outside activity. When your little artist is done decorating, follow our pet rock care guide how-to for her new pet and set up your rock crew in the front yard for all passersby to see.

3. Learn to skateboard. This retro sport is back in style and we love that. Do a little research on the best-sized skateboard for your little groms and make sure you get them all decked out in safety gear before you build those driveway ramps.

4. Play with hula hoops. Who says you have to have moves like Jagger to have fun with a hula hoop? Check out these boredom-busting hula hoop games by Learn Play Imagine for inspiration—you’ll be amazed at the creative new ways you can play with one of the oldest toys imaginable.

5. Inspire your neighbors with sidewalk chalk. Writing messages like "Good job!" and "I'm proud of you!" will bring a smile to your neighbors' faces as they walk by your house.

6. Roll it out with a tricycle race. Ready, set, go! Riding bikes is an energy-burning sidewalk game for kids. From obstacle course to tag team follow our how-to on how to change up the track.

7. Get out the jump ropes. When it comes to the old-school fun that will leave you breathless—from both giggles and activity—there’s nothing that outdoes a round of jump rope. Check out these six games that work for every age and skill level to jog your memory of just how it’s done.

8. Draw chalk art photo props. Is there a kid out there who doesn’t like seeing themselves in a silly photo? With chalk, you can create any backdrop you wish, and even draw your kids right into the pictures. Fourth of July? Add a top hat and walking cane and Sam becomes Uncle Sam!

9. Make a sidewalk chalk obstacle course. This is great for gross motor skills and you may even see the mail carrier giving it a try when you add a sidewalk chalk obstacle course in front of your house. Hands On As We Grow has great step-by-step instructions on how to set it up.

10. Get out the roller skates. These are totally making a comeback this summer and we are pulling out our rainbow headbands for it. Order your little ones some roller skates and the safety gear to go along with them and teach them how to shoot the duck!

11. Wash a car. This sidewalk activity is a win-win for everyone. Get out the bubbles and spray hose and get the minivan all shined up. Kids can even bring out their own toy trucks to join in on the fun.

12. Make ice paint. We all love food on a stick, so why wouldn’t we adore paint on a stick, too? Just mix a little water with non-toxic paint and stick it in the freezer, either in solo cups or ice cube containers. Add a popsicle stick halfway through freezing, then pop the cubes out and you’re ready to go! This is a great activity for the driveway on a hot day.

13. Have a water balloon fight. When the temperatures soar, so will the spirits if you’ve got a bag of water balloons handy. No balloons? No problem. Just turn the hose on and play water tag with the hose and give your front yard plants a drink.

little girl playing sidewalk games with bubbles — Giu Vincente via Unsplash

14. Make bubbles. Whether you make your own bubbles or grab a giant bottle from the grocery store, bubble activities are super fun to do on the driveway. Check out this bubble maker that will blow the bubble for you (and keep you from passing out).

15. Play tetherball. The game you loved to play in elementary school is still just as fun today. Get a kit and set it up for hours of sidewalk games with the neighborhood.

16. Use the windows as a creative space. Washing windows just got a lot more creative. Give your kids brushes and spray bottles, and watch them paint, clear, and paint again.

17. Set up the basketball hoop. Whether you opt for one installed above your garage or a free-standing hoop for the shorties, there are tons of fun basketball games that will get the kids moving. Check out this list from active.com that includes tons of ideas beyond HORSE.

18. Paint with squirt guns. This is a fun way to use those old squirt guns you have around the house. Fill them up with chalk paint to paint the sidewalk or check out this idea from Fireflies + Mud Pies for making art that you can hang up on your fridge.

19. Play boxball. This classic sidewalk game is a little bit like ping pong, using a large rubber ball. Slap the ball back and forth between sidewalk squares; the first person to reach 21 is the winner! See the rules here.

20. Create a scavenger hunt. You can make this easy or hard based on what you have in your yard. But no matter what, your kids will love searching!

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