ML Interest Tag: roller-coaster

Things Parents Say & Do That Ruin Their Kids’ Trust

by Melissa Heckscher

We parents talk a lot about building trust. We tell our kids we want to trust them not to sneak on a screen in the middle of the night. We want to trust them to tell us the truth when we ask them a hard question. We want to trust them to make good decisions.

But what about the other way around? We want them to trust us, too, right?

“Our kids being able to trust us is the most protective factor for their well-being,” said longtime parent coach Abigail Wald, whose popular parenting advice can be found at the Mother Flipping Awesome Private Podcast. Wald, who specializes in working with parents of strong-willed kids, explained that trust is a secret ingredient to a better all-around relationship with our kids.”When you break the trust, you put in the same amount of work but don’t get the rewards.”

So how do we do it? How do we make sure we’re building trust to keep our kids talking to us, even as they enter the roller coaster of adolescence? And, more importantly, what are we doing wrong? We spoke with experts about things parents say or do that can ruin their kids’ trust—and how they can build trust moving forward.

Things to Avoid When Building Trust with Kids

Don’t put down your kids’ friends.

Best for: All kids

Not liking your kids’ friends—or at least, making it obvious you don’t—is an easy way to dampen your kids’ trust. Wald explained it like this: If they like their friend but you don’t, you’re positioning them between you and their friends; it’s almost like a divorce. “It creates this feeling of, ‘Either I have to distrust myself, like I have bad taste in friends, or I can’t trust you.’”

In the end, you may not always like all the people your kids choose as buddies (Just wait ‘til they’re dating!), but try to keep those feelings to yourself and trust that your child will make the right decisions about the company they keep.

Don’t talk about your kids to make other parents laugh.

Best for: Little and big kids

If you’re anything like every parent everywhere—you’ve probably told stories about your kids to get a laugh. We get it: Kids are funny. They do funny things. And sharing those things in conversation helps connect us with other parents. But using your kids as a punchline—especially when kids can hear what we’re saying—can make kids super uncomfortable. If you’re talking about your kids’ experiences in a way that makes them seem “funny” to others, your child may feel like they can’t trust you to share those experiences.

The same goes for discussing your kids’ behavior issues in front of other adults. For example, if your child acts out in public and you “decide to ally yourself with the other adult in the room as opposed to with your child,” (saying something like, “Sorry she’s being so difficult,” to a sales clerk instead of tending to your “difficult” child), that might decrease the trust your child has in you to support her 100 percent, Wald said.

Don’t post pictures of them without permission.

Best for: Big kids, tweens and teens

While opinions on this vary wildly, studies show at least 77 percent of parents share photos of their kids on social media. And most kids become acutely aware of your “sharenting”—and may have feelings about it—as early as seven.

“If a child ever expresses a lack of ease around that, then that’s something to take seriously. We are teaching our kids consent in that conversation,” says Wald.

So be on the same page. The next time you take a picture you might want to share—talk about it with your child. You might decide together to share the photo with particular people (Grandma and Grandpa, via text message, perhaps, or restrict who can see it online).

With enough reassurance, you can build a stronger relationship, and your child may not become one of those Gen Z kids covering their noses in family photos.

Pssst: For those who want to share photos with friends and family without making it a public display, there are safer options like the Tinybeans app (you can learn more and download it here!), which puts parents in total control of who can see and interact with photos and videos.

Don’t check your child’s phone/social media without telling them.

Best for: Tweens and teens

This isn’t to say you shouldn’t monitor your kids’ social media and phone use—you definitely should! But if you want to build trust with your kids, they need to be aware of this possibility from the beginning.

When you give your child a phone or social media access, explain that part of the deal is that you can check on these things when you feel you need to. “This way, the child doesn’t feel betrayed if the parent needs to talk to them about something they find,” Wald said.

If you’ve already given your kids free access to devices, it’s not too late! Do a reset: Set up a time to have your child sign a social media contract—Common Sense Media has a good one you can print for free—which can lay out all your ground rules.

Don’t get caught up in power struggles.

Best for: All Kids

If you find yourself saying, “Because I said so” to get your kids to comply, you’re probably on the wrong track. At least, that’s according to Jen Lumanlan, a psychologist and author of Parenting Beyond Power: How to Use Connection and Collaboration to Transform Your Family—and the World.

“You as a parent are saying, ‘I don’t care what your need is, you are going to do what I say because I say so—that feels as crappy to a 3-year-old or a 10-year-old as it does to an 18-year-old,” she explains.

According to Lumanlan, the solution is for parents to consider their children’s needs as equal to their own—not more; not less. For example: Instead of demanding your child clean up their messy room ASAP, consider why you need the room cleaned—and why your child is OK without it being clean (maybe you require order, and your child needs comfort). Decide what you can live with, and propose a middle ground (in this case, maybe your child can agree to pick up small items on the floor that might hurt someone if stepped on, or designate a single day of the week when they’d agree to tidy up.). “It builds trust when our children see us trying to come toward them and meet their needs,” she says.

Don’t criticize what they’re wearing.

Best for: All kids

Your child is trying to step out into the world as a unique person—especially when they get old enough to choose their clothes and walk onto the runway that is middle and high school. So let them express themselves!

If you tell them you don’t like what they’re wearing, you’re making it a “me against you” playing field. This doesn’t mean that you should let them go to school in a bikini, of course. But if it’s a simple matter of goth clothes, baggy jeans, or mismatched patterns, let them do them. “Parents need to say, ‘Why is this a big deal to me?’” says Lumanlan.

DON’T ignore them when they’re upset—even if they’re faking it.

Best for: Toddlers, little kids, big kids

If your child is crying, you should always go to them to offer care—even if it’s just a simple, “Are you OK?” (older kids may not want to talk, but they’ll be glad you asked.)

The same goes for fake crying (because you know the difference). After all, even faking it still shows a need for connection. Whatever you do, don’t tell them, “You’re OK.” Let them be the ones to determine that. “You’re ‘OK’ is your judgment when they’re clearly saying, ‘I need some support right now,'” Lumanlan says.

And, finally: If they’ve just opened up to you, don’t offer advice before asking if they want it.

Best for: Big kids, tweens, teens

The time will come when your child will come to you and want to talk. We know what you’ll be thinking:  I’m doing it! My child trusts me!  YES!

Now’s when you have to remember: Don’t. Offer. Advice. At least, not yet.

Instead, listen and empathize. At some point, you can ask, “Would you like my advice?” If your child says yes, go for it! If not: Keep your mouth shut. They may come to you later for that nugget of wisdom; they may not. Either way, you’ve done your job—and your child trusted you enough to open up. So go you!

Things You Can Do to Build Trust with Kids

Make a “Mommy No Mad” zone.

Best for: Little kids (and, in a modified way, big kids too)

Here’s an amazing hack that’ll help kids open up. Set up what Wald calls a “Mommy No Mad” zone. Here’s how it works: When your child has something to share, tell them they’re in the “Mommy No Mad Zone”—you can even make a big bubble motion with your hands to help them visualize it.

“It is simply information that goes in, and when we end the Mommy No Mad zone I’ve completely forgotten about it. It created this magical opening and ability for my kids to tell me things when they were young,” says Wald.

If you’ve got older kids you want to try this with, consider using the 5-Minute Rule. They can tell you anything, and while there isn’t a guarantee of zero consequences, there is a promise of zero judgment.

DO show your kids you believe they can handle a situation on their own.

Best for: Big kids, tweens and teens

You might mean well, but when you threaten to intervene by telling your child, “I’m going to e-mail your teacher,” or “I’m going to call your friend’s mom,” that tells the child you don’t believe they can handle the situation themselves. “They may not want to tell you anything anymore because they don’t know what boundaries you’re going to step over,” explains Wald.

Instead, try asking first. If your child mentions having trouble in school, say, “Would you like me to talk to your teacher about what we can do to help you understand?” Let your child’s feelings guide your actions. If they say, “No way!” you can ask them to come up with other ways (in this case, getting help from a friend or tutor) to handle the situation.

DO opt for communication over consequences.

Best for: All kids

Have you just told your kids that they “won’t get in trouble” if they tell you the truth about something—and now that you know what it was, you want to take away their cell phone for a month or give your little offenders two weeks without playdates?

Not so fast!

“How deeply is it engrained in us that somebody who does something they shouldn’t do should be punished in some way?” says Lumanlan, who also runs the website and Podcast Your Parenting Mojo. “By punishing a child, we are eroding trust between us and them.”

She said parents should be more concerned about why the child has misbehaved than how to punish them. “When we use consequences or punishments, we are not truly listening to understand our child and to find out why are they doing this thing that we don’t want them to do,” she says.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that you should ignore their infractions. On the contrary: Open the conversation. Dig in. Try to find out what’s driving the behavior. For instance: Is your older child hitting his younger sib because you’ve been paying her more attention? Address that instead of the Time Out Chair.

In the end: The value of open communication—especially as kids get older—will be more helpful than the value of punishment. (And, by the way, research suggests that punishments don’t usually work anyway.)

Related story: How to Get Kids to Express Their Feelings at Every Age

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Big Thrills for Littles: These 17 Amusement Parks Cater to Toddlers

by Melissa Heckscher

If piggyback rides and bucket swings aren’t cutting it anymore, it may be time to take your little daredevil to a theme park!  But which one should you visit? Big parks can be expensive for you and exhausting for little kids, no matter how great their “toddler-friendly” lands may be. So why not try a theme park that’s just right for your little thrillseeker (and maybe even for your wallet, too)?

Diggerland USA - Berlin, NJ

Diggerland

Is your mini mesmerized by construction sites? Is the sandbox her happy place? This construction-themed adventure park lets kids drive, ride and operate tractors, mini dumpers, excavators, land rovers, and more. Note: While most rides require kids to be at least 42 inches tall to operate the machinery, kids as small as 36 inches can ride on a parent's lap. There is also a train ride and truck ride around the park that will give even younger tots a view of all the cool vehicles around the park.

If you've got swimmers (and your kids are at least 36 inches), the adjacent water park is included in admission and has a wading pool and construction-themed water play area that littles will love. 

Online: Diggerlandusa.com

Related: Drive a Dump Truck at NJ's New Diggerland Theme Park

LEGOLAND - CA, NY, and FL

LEGOLAND

Sure, toddlers may be on the younger end of LEGOLAND's demographic, but we couldn’t resist including LEGO's famous thrill center only because it does such a good job of catering to little riders and because there are no big scary rides to make the tinier tots feel left out.

We have never met a toddler who doesn't love dinosaurs. The New Dino Land in LEGOLAND California is particularly fun for little ones with the DUPLO Little Dino Trail ride and meet and greets with dino-themed characters throughout the day. 

Officially, the park bills itself as being geared to kids ages 2-12—but whether or not your toddler has even touched a LEGO (or DUPLO), they'll have a blast here. Besides a roller coaster or two that your tot will have to wait a few years to ride, there is a slew of other rides that either don't have a height requirement or that can be ridden with a lap-wielding adult. There are also shows, an assortment of playgrounds, and a sandbox where your kid can search for pretend fossils.

Don't miss the dedicated DUPLO play area, a land designed for kids under 5 that includes a small train ride and several play areas where kids can run around and get those wiggles out. And, try to book a room at the LEGOLAND Hotel, which has so many fun features (A secret disco elevator! A kids' buffet! Bunk beds!) that your kids may not even want to go to the actual theme park. 

Located in Carlsbad, CA; Goshen, NY; and Winter Haven, FL  

Online: Legoland.com 

Related: 21 LEGOLAND Secrets That Will Make Your Trip Awesome

Story Land - Bartlett, NH

Melissa Heckscher

Perch on the wall with Humpty or sit on that tuffet, Little Miss Muffet-style! This fairy tale-themed amusement park has thrills for kids of all ages, from roller coasters and flume rides for the big kids to swan boats and teacups for the tiny tots. The nearly 70-year-old theme park has more than 30 rides geared to children ages 2 to 12—with many of the attractions suitable for even the littlest riders. Toddlers will love the Pharoah's Reign Splash Battle, which lets them shoot water cannons at passersby; as well as Cinderella's Pumpkin Coach Ride, which takes them on a ride around the park on Cinderella's famous carriage. There are also storybook characters roaming the park, so be sure to have your phone ready to snap a pic when your child says "cheese."  

Online: Storylandnh.com

Idlewild - Pittsburgh, PA

Idlewild

Calling all Daniel Tiger fans! This old-fashioned theme park nestled into the mountains outside Pittsburgh has a real live "Neighborhood Trolley" that chugs past friendly neighbors and all of Mr. Rogers' favorite spots. Called the "Best Kids Theme Park" by Amusement Today, this 145-year-old park—which is surrounded by lush forests and greenery—is the oldest amusement park in Pennsylvania (the third oldest in the U.S.!) and has more than 35 rides and attractions, plus a sprawling water park. 

Toddlers will love running into the pages (literally, you have to run through a giant book to enter the land) of Story Book Forest, which is filled with sets, characters, and real animals (!) from nursery rhymes and fairy tales. There's also an impressively huge playground that lets kids of all ages blow off some steam with ropes courses, giant slides, and other climbing features.  

As for the rides, there are a plethora of toddler-sized thrills, including some that don't even let adults aboard! Kids can fly on little airplanes, drive small cars, and chug-chug on tiny motorcycles all by themselves. At the adjacent Soak Zone waterpark (included in admission) there are several toddler-friendly areas, including a splash pad area, a children's pool, and a lazy river.  

Online: Idlewild.com

Adventure City - Anaheim, CA

Melissa Heckscher

Located just a few miles from Disneyland, this little park packs a lot into its two acres! Parents will love that all of the rides offered here are appropriate for kids under 5—even the biggest coaster in the park, the Rewind Racers (it goes backward and forward) accepts kids as small as 39". There are tiny cars to drive, little planes to fly, and whirling balloons to ride. There's also a petting zoo and "Thomas the Tank Engine" play area where kids can take a break from the action to play with wooden train sets. And, with admission starting at $26.95, it's a perfect family outing that is just big enough to tire them out... but not so much that they'll melt down. 

Online: Adventurecity.com

Santa’s Village - Jefferson, NH

Santa's Village

If your kids can't wait until December 25, why not celebrate the big day early at this Christmas-themed amusement park where Santa (clearly) spends his summers?  Inside the gates, you'll find all things yuletide, from painted igloos and snowflakes to elves and real live reindeer. Open May through December, the park has 23 rides—all of them designed to thrill riders under 13, but many suitable for toddlers, with cute names like the Chimney Drop, the Little Elf Flying School, and the Little Drummer Boy. Many of the rides, including the flying Santa's Sleigh, which takes riders on a monorail-led sleigh ride around the park, accommodate all ages. 

And, don't worry about those New England summers dampening all the Christmas fun!  The adjacent Santa's Village water park is open in the summer and included with the regular admission ticket. Toddlers who aren't afraid of a little H2O will love the splash pad and wading pool, while older sibs will be zipping down the Joy Ride Slides, a network of colorful tube slides, over and over again. 

Online: Santasvillage.com

Sesame Place - Langhorne, PA and San Diego, CA

Sesame Place

Kids who spend their weekday mornings hanging with Elmo and his gang will be blown away by the fact that all their friends have come to life at this theme park dedicated to all things Sesame Street. Whether your kids want to ride their first roller coaster or blast off into outer space in an Elmo-themed rocket ship, all the rides here are cartoonified with familiar faces and designed to be fun for all ages (even the roller coaster, Super Grover's Box Car Derby, is suitable for kids as small as 38 inches—the size of an average 3-year-old!). Of course, those iconic furry faces are everywhere—including in the stores—so expect your little Sesame sprout to be all about the merchandise. 

Want to cool off? Both locations have a water park (San Diego's is bigger, though the PA location is opening a brand new water play area this summer!) that is included with your admission ticket, so you'll get two experiences for the price of one! 

Online: Sesameplace.com

Related: Sesame Place San Diego is Open, And We Have the Inside Scoop!

Dutch Wonderland - Lancaster, PA

Dutch Wonderland

With 21 of its more than 35 rides and attractions dedicated to kids 36-inches and under (and most of the others allowing small children to ride with an adult), this Pennsylvania Dutch Country amusement park is the perfect first theme park for kids who want to feel like they can do it all. Kids above 36 inches can try their first roller coaster if they dare—there are three of them! But thrills abound all over—including swing rides, a dizzying number of spinning rides, train and boat rides, and an animatronic dinosaur trail, throughout the 43-acre park. There are also a few water rides and a splash park, so bring your bathing suits!

Pssst: Make a weekend out of it and stay at the nearby Cartoon Network Hotel, a hotel that opened in 2020 and pays homage to all of CN's hit shows.

Online: Dutchwonderland.com

Related: Best Places to Visit Around Chester County, PA

 

Enchanted Forest - Salem, OR

Enchanted Forest

Enchanted Forest may be one of the most authentic theme parks in the country. First of all, the  20-acre amusement park is actually hidden inside a real forest: The trails (which are bound by railings made from real tree branches!) snake through northwest Oregon's dense green forests, hiding the spattering of rides from view until you're right beside them. Secondly, with a fairytale theme that begins when you walk through the castle entrance and continues with storybook facades and familiar nursery rhyme characters throughout, your kids will feel like they've stepped into a real enchanted land.

Of the 10 rides hidden throughout the park, five of them take kids 36 inches and smaller. There are some big rides here that are too scary (and fast) for toddlers, including the Ice Mountain Bobsleds roller coaster, the Haunted House, and the Big Timber log ride (which is reportedly the largest of its kind in the Pacific Northwest), but it's not the rides that the littles will love; it's the scenery. The forested trails are perfect for running free, and the heavily themed fairytale sets will spark those little imaginations to run wild. 

Another bonus: Admission is just $25, with rides costing additional tickets (tickets are $1 each). That means if you just want to go in and explore the forest trails—and maybe add a kiddie ride or two—that's enough! Included in admission are the various mazes and interactive elements that lead guests straight into the stories (for instance, kids can climb through a hole in a log that leads to Wonderland).  Want to know more? Check out Coaster Studio's Youtube video for a cool look inside the park. 

Online: Enchantedforest.com

Gilroy Gardens – Gilroy, CA

 

The annual Garlic Festival isn’t the only thing bringing tourists to Gilroy! The unique agriculturally-themed Gilroy Gardens amusement park lets kids climb aboard a giant artichoke for a teacup-style ride or hop on a caterpillar for a spinny trip around a giant apple core. Of the 18 garden-themed rides in the park, all but three are good for toddlers (though big sibs will love them!)

But it’s not all about the rides! The real reason to come to this 536-acre park is to visit its collection of bizarre “Circus Trees.” These trees, with intentionally bent and snarled roots and branches, are living masterpieces grown through a particular process that results in trees that are unique works of art (some of which are so big you can walk through them!).  The sprawling property also has six botanical gardens, some of which offer specialized tours, including a relaxed boat cruise through a Rainbow Garden and an on-a-track replica Model-T tour of a model of Historical Santa Clara Valley.

Online: Gilroygardens.org

Related: Gilroy Gardens: A Day To Play, Learn, Explore

 

Hersheypark - Hershey, PA

Hersheypark

If a theme park devoted to candy isn't enough to get your child 100 percent on board, we don't know what is! This sprawling amusement park, located in the town where Hershey Bars are made (the whole town really smells like chocolate!), has a slew of rides for kids of all ages—with many devoted to even tiny riders (the rides are grouped into candy type, with "Hershey’s miniatures" being those that take kids under 36-inches; "Hershey’s Kisses" being those that take littles 36 to 42-inches; and "Reese's" being littles 42-48-inches). Kids will love whirling around in giant chocolates and bouncing up and down on candy bars. We're pretty sure you won't get through the day without eating some of the sweet stuff, too, as the must-do Chocolate Factory Tour includes a free sample at the end and plops you out right into a massive chocolate shop.

When you're done riding all the rides, the adjacent ZooAmerica houses a small but mighty collection of more than 200 animals, and entrance to the zoo is included with the price of Hersheypark admission. It's a quiet enough place that you can wheel your toddler around during naptime and have a good chance he'll catch some Zs. 

There's also a waterpark—included with your admission ticket—with some toddler-friendly features like a splash pad and a shallow-water wading area. 

Online: Hersheypark.com

Related: Visit Hershey, PA, for a Family-Friendly Vacay

Nickelodeon Universe - East Rutherford, NJ and Minneapolis, MN

Nickelodeon Universe

Give cold weather the cold shoulder and head to the mega-entertainment complex, American Dream, the Western Hemisphere's biggest amusement park, which is home to an indoor ski slope, a water park, a skating rink—and Nickelodeon's second "Universe" theme park (the first is at the Mall of America in Minnesota). The park's 27 rides (all indoor!) are based on the network's famous faces such as Paw Patrol, Spongebob, the Backyardigans, Diego, and more. 

And while there are quite a few big coasters that might intimidate little visitors, tiny Nick Jr. fans will love hopping aboard smaller thrills like Blaze's Monster Truck Rally, Blues Skidoo, Boots Banana Swing, and Butterbeans Sweet Spin (all of which are suitable for toddlers) as well as romping around various playgrounds such as Paw Patrol's Adventure Bay and the Slime Zone. 

Online: Americandream.com (New Jersey); Nickelodeonuniverse.com (Minnesota)

Related: Our Favorite Amusement Parks Near NYC

Disney World's Magic Kingdom (FL) & Disneyland (CA)

Melissa Heckscher

Oh, Disney. We can’t do this list without you. Sure, you're a huge park with equally huge ticket prices, but we can't say no. Because let's face it: By age 2 most kids are sufficiently Disnified that seeing their beloved buds in person is, quite simply, worth the hassle and expense (especially if you're a Disney-loving parent as well). It helps that kids under 3 are free at all Disney parks.

Of all of The Mouse's properties, Disney World's Magic Kingdom (or Disneyland in Anaheim, CA, which shares many of the same rides) has been called the best for toddlers since it has so many of the iconic shows and rides that littles will love. Think Cinderella's Castle, It's a Small World, the Jungle Cruise, and the Mad Hatter's Teacups. And while there are some big rides that your small child won't want to (or can't) ride, the majority of the offerings are good for all ages.

DIsney's Animal Kingdom is also a good choice for smaller kids because even though there are a lot of big rides your toddler may not be ready for, there's still a zoo's worth of animals to see (and all the big rides have parent swap stations so you can take turns riding while a partner stays with your child).  

Of course, bringing a toddler to any Disney park requires some bit of planning (pack lots of snacks... and pull-ups!) and flexibility (this mom blogger has some great tips)—as well as being at peace with the fact that your day may be cut short when your toddler needs a nap or teeters near tantrum-territory. In other words, don’t expect to make it to the fireworks, but be pleasantly surprised if you do. 

Online: Disneyland.disney.go.com (CA); Disneyworld.disney.go.com (FL)

 

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3 Ways to Respond When Your Big Kid Is Super Rude to You

by Gabby Cullen

If you’re in the middle of raising a big kid, then you know living with someone in the throes of raging hormones is not for the weak. Happy one moment and outraged the next, parenting a tween or teen is a roller coaster of emotions that can leave you exhausted and confused. The good news is, in what might be the most challenging stage of parenting (toddler parents, we see you—wait a few years), there are ways to communicate effectively with your kids, even when they throw major shade your way. Dr. Lucie Hemmen, an adolescent and parenting expert who explained in a previous TikTok video that there’s a biological reason for teens being mean to you, offers three ways to respond when your kid is super rude.

@dr.luciehemmen

Videos are for educational use only. #parentingteens #parenting #parentingtips

♬ original sound – Dr.LucieHemmen

#1. Say nothing.

Stone-cold silence speaks volumes. In truth, tweens and teens don’t have the emotional intelligence to react maturely a lot of the time. When you engage with your kid after they’ve been rude, you’re turning it into a situation between you and them instead of it being just them. Hemmen says that staying silent allows for whatever they say to “just sit there, unobscured.” Which, in turn, puts the ball back in your court.

#2. Say something short and sweet.

If an immediate response is a must, Hemmen suggests keeping it simple. As in one word, like “ouch,” that relays to your big kid you’re hurt by their words but you also refuse to engage. So keep it brief and check out this list of what not to say to an angry tween or teen to avoid other communication pitfalls when dealing with big kids.

#3. Wait a bit, then validate their feelings and express your own.

This response is one of the best things you can do when dealing with a rude kid because you can calm down and think about what you want to address, and it allows the child time to reflect on their actions.

Nobody thinks well when emotions are running high, and Hemmen explains that teens have an even harder time. “They have a big struggle with this because of the state of their brain development: Their prefrontal cortex really shuts down; they are all emotion. It’s almost like talking to an intoxicated person,” she says.

The key is not to engage with them when emotions are high but to recognize and validate their feelings when you know they’re listening. Hammen suggests speaking with your child later when everyone has had an opportunity to reflect. What should you say? “Hey, remember when you felt really disappointed because I said no about whatever? You told me you hated my guts and I’m the worst parent in the world. You know, I just want you to know I get that you are frustrated. I get it sucks to be disappointed. I really, really understand that,” Hammen says.

Then you can explain that while they have a right to their feelings, they don’t have the right to be rude. In truth, they’ll be more likely to absorb that concept at a future time, even if they don’t admit it. It can go something like: “Will you try to memorize this as an opportunity for you to pause, take a breath, and treat me like I’m a person? I’m okay with you being disappointed, but it does hurt my feelings when you talk to me that way,” she says.

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The Best Activities for Toddlers, Based on Their Astrological Sign

by Maressa Brown

As your kid’s budding personality begins to reveal itself, you’re sure to get a kick out of all their quirks and preferences—and you can’t help but notice just how much of their own little person they really are. You might have loved a good impromptu dance party as a child, but your kid may be more content to revel in quiet time, read a picture book, or express themselves with watercolors. Or they’re super active and eager to sprint all over the park—or just about anywhere else you take them (sorry, fellow grocery store shoppers). To get an even better sense of your toddler’s favorite activities, you can look to their unique natal astrology, which offers valuable intel on their personality, perspective, and preferences.

As an astrologer and the author of Raising Baby by the Stars: A New Parent’s Guide to Astrology, I’m passionate about sharing the wisdom of astrology with parents to hopefully make life a little easier (and fun!). So let’s dive in and look at children’s astrology signs to better understand what your kid most likes to do.

Aries (March 21-April 20)

an aries symbol for a story on what activities your toddler likes based on your children's astrology signs

Aries is ruled by Mars, the planet of action and energy, so your little ram is one of the most on-the-go, physically active kids of the zodiac. Sitting still is not their forte, but bounding around and moving at lightning speed absolutely is, so this is a toddler who will not only love but need time outside at a playground or, on a rainy day, an indoor jungle gym. Even if they’re run-down, they may still want to do something fast and exciting, so zip them around your favorite park in a jogging stroller. Since they’re innately competitive and positively gleeful whenever they’re declared #1, competitive games are a must. Do a timed scavenger hunt or see who in the family can do the most jumping jacks in a minute. And because—as much as they may wish you were—you’re not an Energizer Bunny, when you do flip on a show or read them a book, your silly little Aries will love slapstick humor. 

Taurus (April 21-May 20)

a taurus symbol for a story on what activities your toddler likes based on your children's astrology signs

Born under Taurus, the fixed earth sign, your wee bull is perfectly happy moving through life at a slow and steady pace. For that reason, when in doubt, err on the side of activities that don’t need to be rushed to complete—like slowly chipping away at a longer book or a LEGO building project. Because Taurus is ruled by Venus, the planet of art and beauty, your toddler has a soft spot for creative endeavors of all kinds—whether that’s making music with kid-size instruments or crafting their favorite animal out of Play-Doh. The bull is also known for being uniquely in touch with all five senses, so sensory activities that allow your tot to engage through sight, smell, touch, taste, and sound are sure to be a winner. Think: heading to the nearest playground for a picnic and discussing all the elements of nature around you, from birds singing to flowers sprouting. 

Gemini (May 21-June 21)

a gemini symbol for a story on what activities your toddler likes based on your children's astrology signs

Gemini toddlers are among the most social and chatty kids of the zodiac thanks to their ruling planet Mercury, the information-gathering planet that oversees communication, transportation, and technology. The sign of the twins also happens to be associated with the Third House of Communication, so activities that involve other kids are sure to be a hit, whether that’s a group playdate or mommy and me class. Your twins child is also bound to be a bookworm who adores trips to the library or bookstore, especially if they involve storytime. Known to be as adept at listening as they are at sharing their many thoughts, you’ll do well to prioritize opportunities for them to flex their conversation skills, whether that’s by FaceTiming loved ones or just chatting through their routine. Games that incorporate wordplay (like “I Spy”) are also winners for Gemini toddlers. And given that Mercury rules transportation, they’ll love learning about trains, planes, or automobiles.

Related: 23 Ways to Exhaust Your Toddler Before Sundown

Cancer (June 22-July 21)

a cancer symbol for a story on what activities your toddler likes based on your children's astrology signs

Your little crab is a heartfelt, intuitive, sentimental sweetheart who, even more than other toddlers, can let loose and have the most fun when they feel securely attached to you and other family members. These traits are owed, in great part, to the fact that Cancer is ruled by the moon, which oversees emotions, intuition, and maternal energy in astrology. So, put on a playlist of your favorite heart-soaring songs (“Let It Go,” anyone?) and encourage your crab cutie to sing along with you. Your little Cancer will also love a leisurely stroll by the nearest body of water (something that’s infinitely therapeutic for a water sign) while strapped to you or holding your hand. Speaking of water, they love playing with bath or pool toys, and as an innately nurturing sign you can tap into their desire to take care of others by playing veterinarian or preparing yummy snacks for their siblings.

Leo (July 22-August 22)

a leo symbol for a story on what activities your toddler likes based on your children's astrology signs

Outgoing, buoyant, confident, and eager to be the center of attention, your little lion owes their exuberance to their ruler, the vitality-bringing sun. They’re also natural-born leaders, so any activity that allows them to run the show (like Follow the Leader) will fire them up. Associated with the Fifth House of Fun and Self-Expression, Leo toddlers love to share what’s in their hearts and on their minds through big, showy creative outlets, like playing dress-up with brightly colored (ideally sparkly!) or otherwise vibrant costumes, putting on a play, or having an impromptu dance party—which you’ll be instructed by your budding star to capture on your phone. While Leo toddlers tend to be fairly extroverted and active, they’re more apt to sit still for books and movies that revolve around being a star or a leader, like Disney’s The Lion Guard. But no matter what they adore the most, as a result of being the fixed fire sign, don’t be surprised if once they’ve pinpointed an activity they love, they’ll want to do it again and again.

Virgo (August 23-September 22)

a virgo symbol for a story on what activities your toddler likes based on your children's astrology signs

Born under the mutable earth sign, your maiden is thoughtful, helpful, and super-communicative, and you’ll want to look to their ruling planet Mercury, the messenger planet, for valuable clues on their favorite activities. Associated with the Sixth House of Daily Routine, they’ll love pitching in on any to-do you need to check off your list, whether that’s putting away laundry or feeding the family kitty. They’ll likely also be fans of games that involve organization or sorting. And from the time they’re tiny they’re bound to be intrigued by language, so you can’t miss with some dedicated storytime, ideally reading books that cover Virgoan themes like everyday routines, healthy habits, and nurturing your well-being and the world around you (think: The Curious Garden by Peter Brown). Also be sure to give your Virgo the opportunity to “write” their own books or share their own stories out loud, as their Mercurial influence means they’re natural storytellers.

Libra (September 23-October 22)

a libra symbol for a story on what activities your toddler likes based on your children's astrology signs

Your Libra kid is partnership-oriented, beauty-loving, and peace-seeking as a result of the scales’ ruler, Venus, the planet of relationships, art, and harmony. Associated with the Seventh House of Partnership, they’re most likely to enjoy one-on-one bonding activities with you, another caregiver, or your bestie’s kid (who is bound to be their BFF, too). Scales kids will love trips to an art museum, making up their very own song, or experimenting with new hairstyles or colorful outfits. They’re especially driven to hone their personal style, so they’ll have fun playing with their very own grooming kit or even keeping you company while you do your skincare or hair-styling routine. And although they shine best when they’re part of a pair, they’re also social butterflies at heart, meaning they’ll dive right into a dance or music class and instantly make friends.

Related: 15 Ways to Play with Toddlers That Take 10 Minutes (or Less)

Scorpio (October 23-November 21)

a scorpio symbol for a story on what activities your toddler likes based on your children's astrology signs

Intense, emotionally intelligent, and dynamic, your Scorpio kid owes their innate magnetism and powerful vibe to their modern ruler Pluto, the planet of transformation, and their traditional ruler Mars, the planet of action and energy. And you’ll do well to look to the themes of both of these planets when brainstorming activities for your scorpion tot. For example, Pluto’s all about uncovering the shadow side of life, so your kiddo will be drawn to puzzles or games that involve a mystery they can solve. And given their Mars influence, they’ll enjoy pastimes that allow them to take charge—like picking out a Sunday night dinner or taking on the role of Simon in a game of Simon Says. As a water sign, Scorps also adore time spent at the beach or swimming, which they’re sure to find calming. It also bears noting that Scorpio is associated with the Eighth House of Emotional Bonds, so entertainment that sets the stage for conversations about deep-rooted emotions (like Inside Out) will resonate with your toddler.

Sagittarius (November 22-December 21)

a sagittarius symbol for a story on what activities your toddler likes based on your children's astrology signs

Upbeat, independent, and outspoken, your toddler was born under the mutable fire sign ruled by fortunate Jupiter, the planet of abundance and expansion. To that end, wanderlust-filled Sag’s mantra is “bigger is better,” so you’ll always do well to prioritize activities that broaden your child’s horizon, whether that’s taking them on a walk through a thrilling nature trail, heading to the zoo to learn about animals from all over the globe, catching a train ride to the nearest city to go sightseeing, or actually doing some long-distance traveling with your future aspiring globe-trotter. But on homebody days, you can lean on books, games, and puzzles that allow your Sag’s mind to wander all over the planet (like Busy, Busy World by Richard Scarry). They’ll also be one of the first of the zodiac to enjoy learning a new language. And even in your own neighborhood, take them to the widest play area you can find, as your free-spirited tot will always love running and playing in big open spaces.

Capricorn (December 22-January 21)

a capricorn symbol for a story on what activities your toddler likes based on your children's astrology signs

Your Capricorn toddler is a driven smarty-pants with a penchant for rules and tradition, thanks to their ruling planet, taskmaster Saturn, which oversees commitment and boundaries. Kids born under the cardinal earth sign like to take the initiative and work step-by-step toward a goal, so you might find they really enjoy using a piggy bank to save up allowance or helping you tend to the family garden or household plants (an activity that also speaks to your little green thumb’s earthiness). Associated with the Tenth House of Career and Public Image, you could be surprised by just how much your toddler acts like a little CEO in training, which is also a sign that they’ll enjoy playing a game of make-believe revolving around being the boss. As an old soul at heart, your Cap toddler will enjoy listening to old-school tunes (you could be surprised just how much they love artists like Stevie Wonder or Ella Fitzgerald) and learning about history—specifically, game-changing leaders from the past.

Aquarius (January 22-February 18)

an aquarius symbol for a story on what activities your toddler likes based on your children's astrology signs

Your social, humanitarian, highly original toddler, born under the fixed air sign, owes their electrifyingly innovative MO to their modern ruling planet, Uranus, which oversees change, rebellion, and the desire to strike out against convention. In turn, know that your water-bearer kid will always want to march to the beat of their own drum. If all the other kids in the neighborhood are into an activity they saw on Ms. Rachel this week, your Aquarius might want to do anything but that. Instead, they may prefer to make up their own game—or better yet, science experiment or invention project. At the same time, because Aquarius is associated with the Eleventh House of Networking, they’re community-oriented, so they’ll like hanging out at the local pool or playground with a group of playmates or making new friends when you visit friends or family on a road trip. They also adore technology and science due to Uranus being the planet of electricity and innovation, so prioritize activities that make it possible for them to learn about these subjects—and maybe even make a cutting-edge discovery.

Pisces (February 19-March 20)

a pisces symbol for a story on what activities your toddler likes based on your children's astrology signs

Your fish toddler, born under the mutable water sign, is deeply emotional, tenderhearted, sensitive, perceptive, empathic, and innately in tune with the mystical aspects of life. This is owed to their modern ruler, Neptune, the planet of spirituality, and the fact that Pisces is associated with the Twelfth House of Spirituality. That said, you’ll want to embrace Neptunian themes when planning activities for your Pisces, like keeping a dream journal, expressing emotions through art (whether that’s coloring or working with you to write a poem), learning about crystals, reading or making up whimsical, fantastical stories, or engaging in mind-body practices like meditation, deep breathing, or kid yoga. Because they’re so compassionate and apt to pick up on all the energy and emotions around them, you may find they enjoy and benefit from activities that teach self-soothing, like spending time in a calming corner or listening to their favorite mellow, soft music. 

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Month-by-Month Sleep Tips for the First Wild Year

by Eva Ingvarson Cerise

You know why there’s nothing sweeter than a sleeping baby? Because it takes so much work to make sleep happen. Healthy, consistent sleep habits are key for getting your baby in a good groove for snoozing. To do it, set up a calming bedtime routine, buy a white noise machine to drown out distractions, and read what these two prominent sleep experts have to say in this baby sleep guide for year one.

Dr. Harvey Karp is a pediatrician, child development expert, co-founder of smart-tech and parenting solutions company Happiest Baby, which created the SNOO Smart Sleeper Bassinet, and author of The Happiest Baby Guide to Great Sleep. Renee Wasserman, P.T., M.P.H, is an infant & child sleep consultant and child behavior consultant, as well as the founder of the consulting practice SleepyHead Solutions, where she helps parents overcome sleep challenges with their babies and toddlers. Read on for their advice and our guide to baby sleep in the first year, from awake windows and naps to sleep regressions and the sleep tools that really work.

a baby sleeps on a mother's shoulder while she checks her phone
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The good news: There are things we can do to help our babies sleep well. “Learning to sleep on your own is a skill just like learning to crawl or walk, and it takes lots of practice, consistency, and patience,” says Wasserman. “With the right plan looking at the sleep environment, routine, timing of feedings, schedule and approach to teach the skill of independent sleep, healthy sleep is achievable by all.”

Babies can differ when it comes to sleep patterns, but these guidelines will give you an idea of what to expect from naps and wake times, and how to create a healthy sleep routine for your baby. If you’re concerned about your baby’s sleep patterns, talk to your pediatrician.

Newborn Sleep Tips: Birth to 2 months

Total sleep a day:14-18 hours
Awake window between naps: 30 minutes to 1.5 hours
Naps: 45 minutes to 3 hours, several naps a day
Sleep help: swaddling, white noise, motion (smart bassinet, rocking, bouncing on a yoga ball), Dr. Karp’s the 5 S’s, described below

Newborns are usually up every 2-3 hours, even at night, which gradually extends to 3- to 5-hour stretches of nighttime sleep. To help newborns learn the difference between day and night, keep lights brighter by day, take sunny morning walks, and play upbeat music. In the evening, dim the lights and plan calmer activities, like baths, and stick to soft music and lullabies, as well as white noise.

Between birth and four months, Dr. Karp recommends the soothing technique he developed called the 5 S’s to turn on baby’s calming reflex and promote sleep. The 5 S’s are:
⚬ Swaddling—it decreases startling and re-creates the womb’s coziness.
⚬ Side/stomach position—you’ll calm a crying baby more quickly in these two positions, but, for safety, babies must be put on their back for sleep.
⚬ Shushing—making shushing noises with your mouth will soothe a fussy baby, and white noise re-creates the shushing sound that blood flow makes in the womb.
⚬ Swinging—to calm a crying child, support baby’s head and neck, and use fast, tiny swinging motions no more than one inch to each side (do this safely, no shaking).
⚬ Sucking—Whether they’re using a pacifier, their thumb, or your pinky finger, sucking soothes babies into sleep.

Related: 8 Dos and Don’ts of Baby Sleep

a baby girl on a sleep schedule sleeping in her crib for a baby sleep guide
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2-4 months

Total sleep a day: 13-14 hours
Awake window between naps: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
Naps: 30 minutes to 2 hours, 2-3 naps a day
Sleep help: white noise, blackout shades, Dr. Karp’s 5 S’s, introducing a sleep and feeding schedule, teaching your baby to self-soothe

Introduce a consistent daily schedule of feedings and sleep times. Picking up on your baby’s sleep cues (yawning or rubbing their eyes) will help you establish the schedule. And blackout shades can help babies sleep when the sun is shining. This is also a good time to introduce a sleep routine to signal to your child that it’s time for rest. Before naps, you can sing, read a book, and cuddle. The bedtime routine should be longer and can incorporate a bath, lullaby, baby massage, nursing or a bottle, soft music, white noise, and books.

A key part of creating good sleep habits is teaching babies to fall asleep independently, rather than always rocking, feeding or holding them until they fall asleep. It’s normal for children, and adults, to wake up between sleep cycles. So when babies wake, we make it easier for them to fall back asleep by putting babies to bed drowsy but awake.

“If they fall asleep while taking a bottle and then wake during the night and the bottle is gone, it often results in them crying for the bottle,” says Wasserman. “If they fall asleep on their own after being put in the crib drowsy but awake, when they wake during the night, they will be in the exact same position they were in when they fell asleep, making it easier for them to get right back to sleep.”

In fact, Dr. Karp recommends that if your baby falls asleep before being placed in their bed, wake them slightly after you lay them down, by changing their diaper, putting your cool hand on their head, or giving them a little tickle. Baby will open their eyes, moan, or move your hand before falling back to sleep.

“I know it sounds crazy to wake a sleeping baby,” says Dr. Karp. “But it helps infants learn how to self-soothe, which they can use in the middle of the night to put themselves back into slumber all on their own.”

At this age, babies are typically sleeping for 5- to 6-hour stretches, but watch out for that four-month sleep regression. Regressions usually last 2-4 weeks and typically coincide with exciting developmental and physical changes. According to Wasserman, the four-month regression generally happens as baby’s internal sleep rhythms start to settle. This can require changing your schedule so naps and nighttime sleep are better in sync with your child’s natural sleep rhythms.

a baby in a purple onesie is sleeping in a crib
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4-8 months

Total sleep a day: 12-14 hours
Awake window between naps: 2-3 hours
Naps: 30 minutes to 2 hours, 2-3 naps
Sleep help: White noise, consistent naps, and a sleep schedule allowing your baby to self-soothe

Sleep stretches of 6-8 hours are possible at this age. But babies typically start teething around this time, so wake-ups can be due to discomfort. Try chilled teethers and give extra cuddles to soothe your little one back to sleep.

When your baby cries out from the crib, wait a moment before rushing to comfort them. Yes, it will feel like the longest seconds of your life. But here’s why it’s important: Your baby may be able to self-soothe to get back to sleep, thanks to all the work you’ve been doing to put them down drowsy but awake.

If you suspect hunger is waking your baby at night, make sure they’re feeding well before bedtime to fill them up. You can also introduce a dream feed, which means nursing or giving your half-asleep baby a bottle before you go to bed for the night.

At 8-9 months, prepare for another sleep regression. According to Wasserman, this regression is usually tied to babies dropping their third nap. She recommends moving bedtime a little earlier to keep your little one from becoming overtired as they get used to being awake longer before bed.

Related: 23 Swaddles & Baby Sleep Sacks We Love

a baby sleeping on his stomach for a baby sleep guide
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9-12 months

Total sleep a day: 12-14 hours
Awake window between naps: 2.5-4 hours
Naps: 1-2 hours, 2-3 per day
Sleep help: White noise, consistent naps, and a sleep schedule allowing your baby to self-soothe

As babies approach the one-year mark, they may be sleeping up to 7-10 hours at a stretch, and it will feel as glorious for you as it sounds. But don’t get too comfortable because, with walking and other exciting baby milestones and developmental leaps on the horizon, sleep may get interrupted again.

Around 12 months, another sleep regression is likely. This one is usually linked to learning to walk and may result in your baby refusing to nap. Wasserman recommends not giving up on naps or switching to one nap just yet. Instead, hang tight and be consistent with two naps as your baby moves through this regression in a few weeks.

The happy ending to this wild year? Understanding your baby’s natural sleep rhythms, creating a soothing environment for rest, building an adaptable schedule of sleep and feedings, and teaching your baby to self-soothe and sleep independently have built a foundation of good sleep habits that will help your child (and you!) sleep well for years to come.

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Last-Minute Gifts You Can Order on Amazon Right Now

by Karly Wood

Just because you know they’re last-minute Christmas gifts, doesn’t mean anyone else has to know

Oh, trust us. We get it. Yes, the holiday season is fun, full of cheer, friends, family, food. All the good stuff, really. But that doesn’t mean that it’s not incredibly busy. Like, incredibly busy. There’s barely time to make it from Place A to Place B, to decorate, coordinate, get dressed, and maybe sleep somewhere in there. Gift shopping is seriously tricky to squeeze in. Sure, it’s the 12 Days of Christmas starting today, but we’ve got last-minute Christmas gifts that’ll make it to your doorstep in 2(ish) days, thanks to Santa’s bff—Amazon Prime.

There are gifts for babies, kids, teens, tweens, him, her, all right here. They’re thoughtful, fun, and definitely look like they’re anything but last-minute Christmas gifts. From things that they want to things that they need, you’ll probably find yourself scooping up several goodies from our list and saving time. All you have to do is wrap them. Or, actually, Amazon will do that for you, too, so you can send presents directly to everyone on your list in no time flat. So you can focus on way more important things (like eating Christmas cookies. Or whatever.).

Baby & Kids Gifts

Educational Insights GeoSafari Jr. Talking Microscope

Amazon

This talking microscope features the voice of Bindi Irwin and lets kiddos get up close to high-quality images of animals and plants.

Educational Insights GeoSafari Jr. Talking Microscope ($30.02)—Buy Here!

Glam Barbie Convertible

Amazon

Barbie is ready to roll in her sparkly pink convertible dressed in a pink dress with graphic white print, strappy pink shoes and sunglasses.

Glam Barbie Convertible ($29.99)—Buy Here!

National Geographic Earth Science Kit

Amazon

More than 15 experiments activities including dueling water tornadoes, building an erupting volcano, growing a crystal, two geologic dig kits, and more.

National Geographic Earth Science Kit ($22.49)—Buy Here!

Unicorn Purse Makeup Kit

Amazon

Made of high-quality, paraben-free, and non-toxic materials, this kids' makeup kit passes all US toy and cosmetics safety standards and is perfect for delicate skin. It's all easy to clean and water-washable.

Unicorn Purse Makeup Kit ($18.99)—Buy Here!

Rock Painting Kit

Amazon

Kit comes complete with standard and metallic paints, art transfers, googly eyes, gems, and more, to make rocks into art. Perfect for snow days.

Rock Painting Kit ($14.99)—Buy Here!

Fisher-Price Imaginext 'Jurassic World' T. Rex & Owen

Amazon

Dinosaurs are having a very popular year, and this T. Rex with light-up eyes, chomping action, and a whole set of fun pieces is probably one of the reasons why.

Fisher-Price Imaginext 'Jurassic World' T. Rex & Owen ($89.99)—Buy Here!

Little Tikes Easy Store Jr. Kid Picnic Play Table

Amazon

Indoors or out, this is a toddler/little kid must-have. It folds up easily for storage and even has an umbrella hole (umbrella sold separately).

Little Tikes Easy Store Jr. Kid Picnic Play Table ($59.99)—Buy Here!

MAGNA-TILES Builder 32-Piece Magnetic Construction Set

Amazon

Features everything they need to create the construction vehicles they love, including magnetic cranes. And, of course, it works with all other MAGNA-TILES sets for even more fun.

MAGNA-TILES Builder 32-Piece Magnetic Construction Set ($49.99)—Buy Here!

Bluey Scavenger Hunt Game

Amazon

This game helps kiddos learn to work together to find, play, and collect. 2-4 players.

Bluey Scavenger Hunt Game ($14.99)—Buy Here!

Pretend Play Keys

Amazon

Have a little one who lives for your set of keys? Get them their own and stop wondering why your car alarm is going off. Again.

Pretend Play Keys ($10.95)—Buy Here!

Montessori Dinosaur

Amazon

Comes with 1 Ankylosaurus-shaped body and 12 easy-to-grasp pieces in 4 colors, plus his mouth opens as his spines get filled in.

Montessori Dinosaur ($14.99)–Buy Here!

Fisher-Price Little People Caring for Animals Farm

Amazon

The farm from when we were kids got an upgrade with this adorable set that includes 45+ songs, sounds, and phrases.

Fisher-Price Little People Caring for Animals Farm ($29.97)—Buy Here!

Gabby's Dollhouse Kitty Fairy's Treehouse

Amazon

Inspired by the Cotton Candy Tree in the show, this playset features lights (batteries included) and a thumbwheel you can spin to activate the lights and reveal a secret room. A must for every Gabby's Dollhouse fan.

Gabby's Dollhouse Kitty Fairy's Treehouse ($27.84)—Buy Here!

Rocket Ship Play Tent

Amazon

Portable and lightweight, this rocket ship play tent is great for indoor and outdoor play.

Rocket Ship Play Tent ($29.99)—Buy Here!

L.O.L. Surprise! Tweens Chloe Pepper

Amazon

Cheeky Babe's big sis Chloe Pepper has an awesome sense of style (90's-inspired? Yes, please.). She comes with her own wardrobe, of course. 

L.O.L. Surprise! Tweens Chloe Pepper ($30.59)—Buy Here!

Blippi Toy Vehicles Playset of 4

Amazon

Every kiddo loves Blippi, and they'll love these Blippi vehicles made specifically for little hands.

Blippi Toy Vehicles Playset of 4 ($34,99)—Buy Here!

Take Apart Dinosaurs

Amazon

Easy to take apart and put together with the included low-power drill, this one is sure to keep them entertained and engaged.

Take Apart Dinosaurs ($25.99)—Buy Here!

 

Tweens & Teens Gifts

Retro Smiley Face Slippers

Amazon

Y2K style is in full swing (again), and these fun slippers come in multiple colors.

Retro Smiley Face Slippers ($15.79)—Buy Here!

12 Pack Square Claw Clips

Amazon

These neutral-colored claw clips are great for all hair lengths and mix and match with any outfit.

12 Pack Square Claw Clips ($7.88)—Buy Here!

Nintendo Switch

Amazon

This has been a hot gift for years, and it doesn't appear to be showing signs of slowing down.

Nintendo Switch ($349.00)—Buy Here!

Portable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

Amazon

Music is everything, and this waterproof portable bluetooth speaker comes in 7 colors.

Portable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker ($39.98)—Buy Here!

Mermaid Face & Body Glitter

Amazon

'Tis the season to be glittery, right? There are multiple colors available, too.

Mermaid Face & Body Glitter ($5.98)—Buy Here!

Carhartt Beanie

Amazon

If there's a more popular accessory gift this year than the Carhartt beanie, we don't know about it. Comes in a ton of colors.

Carhartt Beanie ($39.99)—Buy Here!

Beats Studio Buds+

Amazon

Gift them the iconic Beats sound in this awesome transparent design.

Beats Studio Buds+ ($149.99)—Buy Here!

HP Sprocket Panorama Instant Portable Color Label & Photo Printer

Amazon

Use the free HP Sprocket Panorama app to customize photos right from your phone, then instantly roll out beautiful sticky-backed pictures of various sizes from 2"x9" photo strips to vibrant labels as small as 0.5”x2".

HP Sprocket Panorama Instant Portable Color Label & Photo Printer ($129.99)—Buy Here!

Classic Crocs

Amazon

We haven't met a teen or tween who isn't due for a new pair of Crocs. They come in a ton of colors.

Classic Crocs ($49.95)—Buy Here!

Exit: The Haunted Roller Coaster Card At-Home Escape Room

Amazon

For kiddos 10+ (and their families!), this card-based escape room game has up to 4 players working together to solve riddles and crack codes. No app required.

Exit: The Haunted Roller Coaster Card At-Home Escape Room ($15.43)—Buy Here!

High-Waisted Baggy Sweatpants

Amazon

These babies are trending, which we can't say we're mad about. They're pretty cute and come in lots of colors.

High-Waisted Baggy Sweatpants ($29.99)—Buy Here!

Glow in the Dark Gaming Blanket

Amazon

Even gamers get chilly, afterall.

Glow in the Dark Gaming Blanket ($39.99)—Buy Here!

Initial Necklace

Amazon

Initial necklaces are such sweet gifts and they look adorable as part of a necklace stack. Plus, personalized  goodies definitely don't look like last-minute Christmas gifts.

Initial Necklace ($12.99)—Buy Here!

 

Gifts for Her

JW PEI Women's Gabbi Ruched Hobo Handbag

Amazon

The internet's favorite Amazon handbag is the perfect gift, especially since they're available is so many chic colors.

JW PEI Women's Gabbi Ruched Hobo Handbag ($79.99)—Buy Here!

Keurig K-Mini Single Serve Coffee Maker

Amazon

May we suggest a fresh cup of coffee available in her office, vanity, or bedroom? Can't beat that gift. Several colors are available.

Keurig K-Mini Single Serve Coffee Maker ($59.99)—Buy Here!

NEST New York Votive Candle

Amazon

NEST is notorious for smelling unbelievably good, and this votive comes in a ton of different scents.

NEST New York Votive Candle ($18.00)—Buy Here!

Bearpaw Women's Martis Slipper

Amazon

These slippers are everywhere on social media, and we're thrilled that comfy-casual is being embraced because we were doing that, anyway. The little bit of platforms keep them ultra-trendy.

Bearpaw Women's Martis Slipper ($59.99)—Buy Here!

Moroccan Oil Dry Body Oil

Amazon

One of our favorite hair care brands, Moroccan Oil, also offers this super lightweight, rich, and deliciously-scented body oil. Perfect for year-round use.

Moroccan Oil Dry Body Oil ($48.00)—Buy Here!

Cast Iron Teapot

Amazon

Even if they aren't tea-drinkers, this is a gorgeous focal piece for any kitchen, and it comes in several colors.

Cast Iron Teapot ($39.99)—Buy Here!

Humidifier & Essential Oil Diffuser

Amazon

Dry skin and stress won't stand a chance against this humidifier + essential oil diffuser for large rooms.

Humidifier & Essential Oil Diffuser ($43.99)—Buy Here!

Leaf Shave The Leaf Razor Kit

Amazon

Listen. This will be the last razor you ever use. Ever. We have never gotten a better shave (even our husbands agree, so also don't sleep on giving this to the guys in your life, either), it's easy, smooth, and hi. It's pretty. Available in 1-3 blade options and multiple colors.

Leaf Shave The Leaf Razor Kit ($113.00)—Buy Here!

New Balance Women's 574 V2 Essential Sneaker

Amazon

A pair of vintage-y New Balance sneakers that are so on-trend and come in a bunch of colors.

New Balance Women's 574 V2 Essential Sneaker ($89.99)—Buy Here!

LAURA GELLER NEW YORK The Delectables Earthy Essentials Baked Eyeshadow Palette

Amazon

This stunning palette is absolutely beautiful on any skin tone. From subtle to high-drama, this is the only one you need.

LAURA GELLER NEW YORK The Delectables Earthy Essentials Baked Eyeshadow Palette ($20.00)—Buy Here!

'Friends' Trivial Persuit

Amazon

It's been a rough year for Friends fans, but this game with 600 trivia questions about your favorite 6 pals is sure to make you smile.

Friends Trivial Pursuit ($21.99)—Buy Here!

Digital Picture Frame

Amazon

Get those photos off your phone and into a display everyone can enjoy.

Digital Picture Frames ($59.99)—Buy Here!

Kitsch Satin Heatless Rollers

Amazon

Are they all over TikTok and Instagram for a good reason? We sure think so. Anything to save some time and look great, right?

Kitsch Satin Heatless Rollers ($13.58)—Buy Here!

 

Gifts for Him

BaBylissPRO Barberology GOLDFX Shaver

Amazon

This is one serious shaver that helps him get an up-close shave in any sensitive area.

BaBylissPRO Barberology GOLDFX Shaver ($139.99)—Buy Here!

Viking Cast Iron Grill Pan

Amazon

They'll feel like a pro with this ultra-professional cast iron grill pan from iconic brand Viking.

Viking Cast Iron Grill Pan ($127.99)—Buy Here!

Coolife Luggage 3 Piece Set

Amazon

Encourage them to get out and move in 2024 with this hardshell luggage set that comes in multiple colors.

Coolife Luggage 3 Piece Set ($152.98)—Buy Here!

Mirai Speaker TV Dialogue Enhancing Speaker

SoundFun

The newly launched speaker is more than just a sound system. With its innovative AudibleWave Technology, the Mirai Speaker creates opportunities for increased TV viewing time with family and friends thanks to crystal-clear audio dialogue, without the need to increase the volume to excessive levels.

Mirai Speaker TV Dialogue Enhancing Speaker ($239.20)—Buy Here!

Cremo Body Wash

Amazon

We can't explain to you exactly how incredible it smells, but we can tell you that our shopping editor got it for her partner years ago and he's never used anything else since.

Cremo Body Wash ($13.53)—Buy Here!

Ransom Notes Magnetic Party Game

Amazon

Word magnet party game for creating hilarious sentences from prompts–sure to end in laughter.

Ransom Notes Magnetic Party Game ($34.99)—Buy Here!

Callaway Warbird Golf Balls

Amazon

Somehow they can always use more golf balls in their stocking.

Callaway Warbird Golf Balls ($19.97)—Buy Here!

Under Armour Men's Workout Pants

Amazon

Smooth, ripstop woven fabric thst's lightweight & extremely durable, plus wind-resistant and pretty darn comfortable. Lots of colors available.

Under Armour Men's Workout Pants ($27.86)—Buy Here!

4K Projector with Wifi & Bluetooth

Amazon

Turn any room (or outdoor area) into a whole theater experience.

4K Projector with Wifi & Bluetooth ($169.98)—Buy Here!

Legendary Whitetails Men's Recluse Henley

Amazon

Available in several colors, and big + tall sizes, this henley looks great alone or as a layer.

Legendary Whitetails Men's Recluse Henley ($37.99)—Buy Here!

Nostalgia GCT2 Deluxe Grilled Cheese Sandwich Toaster

Amazon

Whether you go for the classic, or add ham, bacon, tomatoes, or whatever you want to stuff it with, this grilled cheese toaster has extra-wide slots for the perfect sandwich.

Nostalgia GCT2 Deluxe Grilled Cheese Sandwich Toaster ($29.99)—Buy Here!

Herschel Charlie RFID Card Case Wallet

Amazon

Help him keep his essentials in one slim and sharp card case wallet from Herschel.

Herschel Charlie RFID Card Case Wallet ($14.95)—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.

 

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New Details Announced about Peppa Pig Theme Park Coming to Texas in 2024

by Kate Loweth

Catering to the preschool set, this new theme park will bring these beloved characters to life

Earlier this year it was announced that a second Peppa Pig Theme Park is scheduled to open in the Dallas-Fort Worth area in 2024. Designed especially for preschoolers, this standalone theme park will feature multiple rides, interactive attractions, themed playscapes, and shows, all based on recognizable locations and characters from the globally popular brand. “Every corner of the charming new park is crafted with preschoolers in mind,” the park shared via press release.  “Through every experience, families will snort, giggle, and create their first theme park memories together with Peppa and her friends.”

The park recently shared all the new rides and attractions we can expect to see when the Texas park is opened next year.

Families will ride, soar, and set sail together on five new rides:

  • Daddy Pig’s Roller Coaster – Take a ride with Daddy Pig in his iconic red car and go on an unexpected adventure when Mr. Bull’s “digging up the road” sends you on a curvy exploration of Daddy Pig’s new shortcut. This family-friendly thrill ride is the perfect first roller coaster for brave little visitors.
  • Peppa Pig’s Balloon Ride – Hold on tight as you soar into the sky and enjoy amazing views of PEPPA PIG Theme Park on this family-friendly aerial carousel ride.
  • Grandad Dog’s Pirate Boat Ride – Anchors away! Sail with Grandad Dog on this family boat ride to find his hidden treasure.
  • Grampy Rabbit’s Dinosaur Adventure – Take a ride on a friendly dinosaur and discover prehistoric surprises around every corner of Grampy Rabbit’s Dinosaur Park. Parents can ride along with their little explorers on this epic dino quest.
  • Mr. Bull’s High Striker – Once the hammer hits the bell on Mr. Bull’s High Striker, your family will bounce up to the sky. Hold on tight and be prepared for a surprise because, after all, what goes up, must come down!

Splash, climb, and crawl! The fun keeps coming with water play, games, and just-my-size playscapes.

  • Muddy Puddles Splash Pad – Have an oinktastic time with Peppa and George doing their favorite thing: jumping up and down in “muddy puddles.” This lively play area has spouting fountains, slides, and other watery surprises to keep the play experiences super fun, splashy, and cool on hot days.
  • Peppa’s Pedal Bike Tour and George’s Tricycle Trail – Little ones will pedal their way through a camping adventure in the woods, through the icy mountains to see the sights and sounds of the great outdoors. Smaller cyclists can enjoy George’s shorter pedal path adventure on tricycles built just for them.
  • Fun Fair – Meet Peppa and her friends for a fairground adventure full of free games and rides, including Miss Rabbit’s hot air balloon and Mr. Bull’s High Striker ride that take you up into the sky for a bird’s eye view of the theme park.
  • George’s Fort – Make your way through a maze in Granny Pig’s Garden and discover George’s Fort, just waiting to be explored.
  • Grandpa Pig’s Greenhouse – Discover what Grandpa Pig is growing – could it be something red and squishy? Or green and round? Slide around his greenhouse and find out.
  • Peppa Pig’s Treehouse – Climb into Peppa’s not-so-high treehouse, then slide down to the bottom for even more free play fun.
  • Rebecca Rabbit’s Playground – Get active and find all the ways to play around the rabbit burrows, as you jump, crawl or hop over to explore Rebecca Rabbit’s Playground.
  • Madame Gazelle’s Nature Trail – Discover what has left mysterious footprints on the ground as you explore the nature trail with Madame Gazelle.
  • Mr. Potato’s Showtime Arena – Join Peppa and her friends under the canopy at Mr. Potato’s stage with live shows packed full of songs, games, snorts, and giggles throughout the day.
  • The Cinema – Take a break from the sunny fun by watching some of your favorite episodes of PEPPA PIG on the big screen in our indoor cinema.

Families can expect to meet with Peppa and her giggly pals for an enjoyable theme park visit. The first Peppa Pig Theme Park opened in the U.S. in 2022 and is located in Winter Haven, FL, adjacent to LEGOLAND Florida. Visitors to Peppa Pig Theme Park in Florida know that this park really caters to little ones and their families. Designed to be a child’s first visit to a theme park, the Florida park offers the majority of its rides with no minimum height restrictions. It is also a Certified Autism Center with a sensory guide, trained staff, and special signage so that all visitors can fully experience the park.

Visit the Peppa Pig Theme Park website for more details and to sign up for email updates!

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42 Gifts That’ll Be on Every 6-to 9-Year-Old’s List This Year

by Gabby Cullen

These toys and gift ideas for kids ages 6-9 include must-have items like the Bitzee Digital Pet and a Roblox gift card

It’s gift guide season, and today we’re tackling the elementary-age crowd (for younger kiddos, check out our preschoolers’ gift list and for the older crew our tween guide is a must-read). The 6-9 age group is so fun because they’re old enough to appreciate a thoughtful gift, yet still young enough to be wowed by the magic of it all. From the never-go-out-of-style gifts like LEGO sets to one of the hottest holiday toys of 2023, we’ve got a covetable selection of toys and gift ideas for kids ages 6-9 at a variety of budgets.

Air Hogs Zero Gravity Sprint

Air Hogs are a fun gift idea for kids ages 6 to 9

Zip, zoom, and drive this race car on any smooth surface, including the walls and ceiling. 

Air Hogs Zero Gravity Sprint ($35)—Buy it here.

LEGO City Ski & Climbing Center

the new LEGO ski set is a good gift idea for kids ages 6-9

This new set includes eight minifigs, a warming hut, skis, snowboards, and even a snowman! 

LEGO City Ski & Climbing Center ($119)—Buy it here.

LeapFrog® Magic Adventures™ Telescope

LeapFrog® Magic Adventures™ Telescope is a good gift idea for kids

The LeapFrog® Magic Adventures™ Telescope features up to 110x magnification and lets kids zoom in on the moon at night or nature during the day. Capture and save what you see, and explore out-of-this-world discoveries and more through 100+ NASA videos and images on the 2.4” screen.

LeapFrog® Magic Adventures™ Telescope—Buy it here. 

Miniverse Make It Mini Kitchen 

Miniverse toys are a good gift idea for kids ages 6 to 9

If your grade school kiddo hasn’t been swept up in Minverse madness yet, here’s the perfect introduction. The kitchen comes with the UV-light oven needed to ‘make’ their treats, and two bonus recipes and oven mitts are also included. 

Miniverse Make It Mini Kitchen ($40)—Buy it here. 

Fortune Teller Book Kit

Amazon

The paper fortune cookie tellers of our youth are back and better than ever. This book is filled with tear-out pages to fill in and fold up (in gender-inclusive designs!).

Fortune Teller Book Kit ($8)—Buy it here.

Marvel Avengers: Beyond Earth's Mightiest Action Figures

A new and improved set of Marvel’s most famous superheroes, including Captain America, Hulk, and Black Panther.

Marvel Avengers: Beyond Earth's Mightiest Action Figures ($25)—Buy them here. 

LilGadgets Untangled Pro Wireless Headphones

They’ll need a pair for school and for travel, and these wireless headphones have a built-in microphone and come in 10 different colors. 

LilGadgets Untangled Pro Wireless Headphones ($50)—Buy them here. 

Hess 2023 Police Truck & Cruiser

Hess Toy Truck

Two toys for the price of one? We're there. This super durable set both light up and make sounds (but not overly annoying ones, we swear), plus they're collector's items. Hurry, though. They will sell out; they do every year.)

Hess 2023 Police Truck & Cruiser ($42.99)—Buy Here!

5 Second Rule Relay

5 Second Relay game is a good gift idea for kids ages 6-9

A mash-up of Pass the Baton and 5-Second Rule, this fast-paced game is a great gift idea for kids ages eight and up.

5 Second Rule Relay ($19)—Buy it here. 

woom OFF 4 Bike

woom Bikes

woom Bikes are designed specifically for kids and their needs. The woom OFF 4 Bike is a 20" bike that provides off-road capacity in a kid-friendly lightweight frame. Also available in black.

woom OFF 4 Bike ($849.00)—Buy it here.

Bitzee Digital Pet

One of the coolest new toys we’ve seen in 2023, kids can pet, feed, and play with up to 15 3-D digital pets. The more they play, the faster they level up!

Bitzee Digital Pet ($25)—Buy it here. 

Pokemon Pikachu Train and Play

There are over 50 reactions to engage your budding trainer. Everyone's favorite Pokeman even moves his arms and his cheeks light up! 

Pokemon Pikachu Train and Play ($30)—Buy it here. 

Create Like Frida Self-Portrait Mirror Painting Kit

Creative kids will be inspired by the world’s most famous self-portrait artist with their own art set that includes three pre-printed and one blank decal. 

Create Like Frida Self-Portrait Mirror Painting Kit ($25)—Buy it here. 

Magic Treehouse Boxed Set

Encourage their love of reading with a set of this beloved book series that includes #1-28!

Magic Treehouse Boxed Set ($81)—Buy it here. 

Beast Lab: Shark Beast Creator

One of the hottest gift ideas for kids in 2023, little scientists can combine all the ingredients they need to create their very own beast. The sounds, lights, and mist actions give this kit an authentic lab vibe. 

Beast Lab: Shark Beast Creator ($70)—Buy it here.

Barbie's Dreamhouse for Nintendo Switch

This brand-new game isn’t just fun for Barbie lovers! Design gurus will enjoy picking wallpaper and decor to create the ultimate home for the iconic doll and her friends. 

Barbie's Dreamhouse for Nintendo Switch ($40)—Buy it here. 

Dig It Up! Ancient Artifacts

Indiana Jones doesn’t have anything on your curious kid. There are six molds that look like iconic historical items like the pyramids, a Viking helmet, and the Great Wall of China. Using excavating tools, kids will dig for treasures in each one. 

Dig It Up! Ancient Artifacts ($40)—Buy it here.

The Otero Kid's Sunglasses

Pair Eyewear

We love how Pair offers magnetic frames to customize your base frames, and we know kiddos will, too. Keep their sensitive eyes protected with a ton of color and lens options, so they can enjoy the sun in style.

The Otero Kid's Sunglasses (Starting at $60.00)—Buy Here!

Squishville 'What's Cookin'' Squad

Squismallows, but make them smaller. This collectible version of the cult-favorite stuffie includes all 12 members of the squad.

Squishville 'What's Cookin'' Squad ($35)—Buy them here. 

WishCraft Flower Power DIY Soaps Kit

There are enough supplies to make six different beautiful soaps. 

WishCraft Flower Power DIY Soaps Kit ($25)—Buy it here. 

Sharper Image Laser Tag Set

Bring the fun of laser tag home! With light-up vests and action sounds, it’s like they’re in the arena. 

Sharper Image Laser Tag Set ($30)—Buy it here. 

Rainbow High Color & Create Fashion Doll

Rainbow High dolls are a popular gift idea for kids ages six to nine

New in 2023, this doll comes with blank clothing and washable markers so kids can design different clothes on a whim.

Rainbow High Color & Create Fashion Doll ($30)—Buy it here.

TMNT Mutant Mayhem Figures

A perfect gift idea for your elementary school kid who loves Leo, Donnie, Raf, and Mikey. 

TMNT Mutant Mayhem Figures ($40)—Buy them here. 

VTech Turbo Edge Riders Rally Track Set

VTech Turbo Edge Racers are a new gift idea for kids ages 6 to 9

Speedsters can create their own course with over nine feet of starter track, and you can incorporate materials you find around the house to create obstacles, tunnels, and more. 

VTech Turbo Edge Riders Rally Track Set ($20)—Buy it here. 

ThinkFun Rollercoaster Challenge

This STEM game is perfect for kids ages six and up. It’s Half logic, half roller coaster engineering, and 100% fun. 

ThinkFun Rollercoaster Challenge ($30)—Buy it here. 

Crayola Wixels Animal Activity Kit

Crayola Wixels is a fun gift idea for kids ages 6 to 9

Kids can use the color map to create pixelated animal art or create their own designs. 

Crayola Wixels Animal Activity Kit ($15)—Buy it here. 

Pokemon Bulbasaur Plush

This adorable guy is perfect for kids who still love stuffies, but are ‘too old’ for traditional options like teddy bears. 

Pokemon Bulbasaur Plush ($30)—Buy it here. 

Dog-E

All of the fun of a pet without the cleanup! This interactive pup is ready for love and care and even comes with six games, like Fortune Teller and Ultimate Nose Boop.

Dog-E ($79)—Buy it here. 

​​Would You Rather? Box Set

Get your elementary school kids talking with three different sets of questions: Would You Rather? Family Edition, Would You Rather? Made You Think!, and Would You Rather? Christmas Edition. 

​​Would You Rather? Box Set ($17)—Buy it here. 

Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea

In the latest installment of Dav Pilkey’s popular elementary school series, Piggy is back! Who will stop him from attempting to put his diabolical plan into action? 

Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea ($9.50)—Buy it here. 

Iscream Neon Friendship Bracelet Tattoo Set

Kids can ‘gift’ their friends a friendship bracelet that pops with color and peels off easily. 

Iscream Neon Friendship Bracelet Tattoo Set ($7)—Buy them here. 

Kutsurogu Japanese Paper Shade Lamp 

For your budding interior designer, this unique lamp is just the ticket. It’s handmade and battery-operated, so there’s no cord to hide. 

Kutsurogu Japanese Paper Shade Lamp  ($62)—Buy it here.

Roblox Gift Card

Give them plenty of Robux this holiday season because you know they’re going to ask for them anyway.

Roblox Gift Card ($25)—Buy it here. 

Djeco Le Grand Dressing Room Paper Dolls

Djeco paper dolls are a good gift idea for kids ages 6 to 9

There are three dolls and over 110 items of clothing included in this sweet box set. 

Djeco Le Grand Dressing Room Paper Dolls ($18)—Buy them here. 

FlashCatch Light-Up Football

A light up football is a fun gift idea for kids ages 6 to 9

Kids don’t have to stop playing when the sun goes down with one of these LED-powered balls that lights up with every throw and catch. 

FlashCatch Light-Up Football ($35)—Buy it here. 

Fashion Plates Drawing Kit

Fashion plates are a fun gift idea for kids ages 6 to 9

The ‘90s called, but we’re not giving these back! As fun as ever, kids can design their own line of clothing with this kit that now includes a set of cool stickers. 

Fashion Plates Drawing Kit ($25)—Buy it here. 

Tech Deck 25th Anniversary Set

Tech Deck is a good gift idea for kids ages 6 to 9

The iconic mini skateboards get an anniversary makeover with this awesome limited edition collection. 

Tech Deck 25th Anniversary Set ($20)—Buy it here. 

Jellycat Amuseable Watermelon Bag

Fashionista alert! This super soft crossbody bag also comes in designs like toast, a cloud, a coffee cup, and a rainbow. 

Jellycat Amuseable Watermelon Bag ($30)—Buy it here. 

Harry Potter Magical Art Coloring Book

Muggles will enjoy bringing various scenes from the movies to life with this intricate book. 

Harry Potter Magical Art Coloring Book ($11)—Buy it here. 

Indoor Scooter Board

an indoor scooter board is a fun gift idea for kids ages 6 to 9

Let them move around even when the weather isn’t cooperating. Choose from four vibrant colors. 

Indoor Scooter Board ($34)—Buy it here. 

LEGO Dots Message Board

Budding tweens will love being able to express themselves! There are 531 pieces they can use to create their statements. 

LEGO Dots Message Board ($20)—Buy it here. 

Monopoly: The Super Mario Bros. Edition

Combine a classic board game with everyone’s favorite plumber brothers and what do you get? The ultimate family night. 

Monopoly: The Super Mario Bros. Edition ($17)—Buy it here. 

Brio Labyrinth

What we love about this version of the classic skills game is the extra wooden boards kids can swap out when they’ve mastered the first.

Brio Labyrinth ($60)—Buy it here. 

Foil Scratch Art Kit - Geometric Animals

Six silver and gold scratch cards reveal beautiful geometric animals. 

Foil Scratch Art Kit - Geometric Animals ($13)—Buy it here. 

Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

Images courtesy of retailers.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.

 

 

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18 Calming Feel-Good Shows to Stream Just Before Bedtime

by DeAnna Janes

Looking for a TV show that’ll let you zone out? This list is for you.

Life is hectic. And sometimes, flipping the internal off-switch is more difficult than not hitting the snooze button in the a.m. That’s where we come in. Ahead, we’ve gathered a list of calming TV shows that quiet the chaos and tap into the Zen. From moving art featuring Planet Earth’s most wonderous and soothing sights to heartwarming sitcoms that will be waiting for you when you wake up, the following collection of TV shows is your ticket to relaxation station.

Nostalgic Soothers

The Joy of Painting

The Joy of Painting is a calming TV show
PBS

A few soothing strokes of Bob Ross’s hog-bristle brush and those eyelids will start to droop. Not because the canvas whisperer is a bore, but because his tranquil instruction and gentle technique are more calming than the pretty little streams and happy fluffy clouds he paints.

Available on Pluto or PBS.com

Gilmore Girls

Some might say the rapid-fire banter volleyed back and forth in this comedic drama from Mrs. Maisel’s Amy Sherman-Palladino is dizzying, but for us, it’s a linguistic symphony that numbs the mind and soothes the soul. Sleep always comes easy knowing Rory, Lorelai, and their amusing dilemmas will still be there in the morning.

Available on Netflix.

The West Wing

Another gem known for its accelerated dialogue, The West Wing has Aaron Sorkin to thank for its convo cadence. But with this one, the calming qualities come from its somewhat optimistic take on the political roller coaster that runs through Washington, D.C. Facing crises ranging from biohazard lockdowns to missing First Daughters, the series gets serious but always keeps the mood upbeat.

Available on Max.

Felicity

When your brain’s turned to mush, get lost in this will-they/won’t-they romantic saga from 1998. Keri Russell stars as a college student navigating dating and adulting, and if you’re familiar with the actress, then you know her soft, muted tone. Couple that with an intimate and subdued lighting style, and the cozy atmosphere is set.

Available on Hulu.

Tranquil Earthy Delights

Planet Earth

Sir David Attenborough is counting sheep in human form. And we mean this with the most complimentary respect. The longtime nature series narrator traverses the globe, exploring the planet’s most wondrous treasures, from the frigid poles and arid deserts to the deepest oceans and all the fascinating wildlife in between. It’s just the escape to paint the backdrop for the best dreams.

Available on Prime Video.

A World of Calm

A World of Calm is a calming TV show
Warner Bros.

Not that we want you to stop reading this roundup, but pause. For just 15 seconds. Do nothing. We’ll wait. … That’s the idea of Calm, an anxiety-reducing app that’s a Nervous Nancy’s savior with quickie meditations. Expanding its reach, Calm now has a TV series featuring stunning imagery with balmy narration–like, Idris Elba telling you a stellar bedtime story.

Available on Max.

The Blue Planet

If you’re the type to hit “ocean life” on the old sound machine before catching some zzz’s, then The Blue Planet is on the same wavelength. A huge undertaking that took five years to make, the series goes deep-sea diving with the oceans’ most majestic creatures and aquatic wildlife, giving new–and better–meaning to the waterbed.

Available on Discovery+.

Baby Animals in the Wild

Cute baby animals: It doesn’t get more adorable than that. From fuzzy tiger cubs and tiny sea turtles to goofy owl chicks and grizzly baby bison, this series treads through every habitat under the sun and surface. Move over, Teddy Lasso, there’s a new cuddle bear in town.

Available on Prime Video.

Night on Earth

Narrator Samira Wiley introduces you to Mother Nature’s finest in their natural habitats, at night. A Netflix Original, this limited series offers viewers a first-class ticket to every corner of the world, capturing flora and fauna, as well as every hour of and star of the night. This one will get you to the state of calm you’re after.

Available on Netflix.

Relaxing Reality

Making It

Nick Offerman is at your service for a tuck-in. But if you’d rather Amy Poehler do the job, she’s here, too. The pair host this lovely competition show that recruits crafters and makers to show off their handmade talents. The episodes are like little pockets of joy that culminate in a craft-off by the end of the season.

Available on Prime Video.

The Great British Baking Show

The Great British Baking Show is a calming tv show
Netflix

Ready to drift off to dream as candy-colored macarons and flaky fruit tarts dance in your head? Then, queue up this wonderfully British reality baking show. The judges are delightful, the hosts are cheery, and the contestants and their stories are as warm and inviting as the sponges they pull from the oven. Hopefully, you slip off to dream before those tummy grumbles set in.

Available on Netflix.

Queer Eye: More Than a Makeover

Winding down with the Fab Five is always an A+ idea. More than just a reality series about before-and-afters, Queer Eye comes with all the feels. The guys hit up the nation’s biggest cities, transforming individuals and bringing out their inner superstars. So don’t be surprised if the pillowcase under your head needs turning after soaking up all those love tears.

Available on Netflix.

Feel-Good Sitcoms

Never Have I Ever

Never Have I Ever is a show on Netflix
Netflix

A coming-of-age comedy with Mindy Kaling’s influence all over it, Never Have I Ever follows protagonist Davie through high school, juggling dreams of going to Princeton with equally vital urges to lose her virginity. The episodes are short, the relationships are relatable, and the familial experiences will make you feel like you were back at home in your childhood bedroom.

Available on Netflix.

Parks and Recreation

The great city of Pawnee might not inspire any wanderlust, but it will certainly make you wish you worked with such a great team. Amy Poehler leads a cast of comedy greats, all playing staffers in the Parks and Recreation department. It all unfolds in an Office-like exterior, but the pro-feminist subtext is what really puts this workplace sitcom above all others.

Available on Peacock.

Starstruck

Starstruck is a TV show on Max
Max

When bedtime calls for a little romance with a side of Kiwi comedy, go with Starstruck. An under-watched and way-underappreciated rom-com, the show meanders through the love story of Jessie and Tom. She’s a millennial trying to adult in East London. He’s an uber-famous movie star. And together, they just magically work.

Available on Max.

Mellow Mysteries

Only Murders in the Building

Only Murders in the Building is a calming TV show on Hulu
Craig Blankenhorn/Hulu

Gifting viewers with a hilarious troupe trio they never knew they needed, Only Murders in the Building stars Selena Gomez, Martin Short, and Steve Martin as armchair detectives solving their building’s crimes and gathering fodder for their true-crime podcast. Silly, absurd, and outfitted in fall’s coziest hues, the show is like the softest, chunkiest Merino wool sweater in your closet–but in screen form.

Available on Hulu.

Black Snow

Allow the melodic sounds of Aussie accents to lull you into a state of relaxation with this psychological crime drama about a small Sea Island community devastated by buried secrets, truths, and murder. Isabel Baker, a 17-year-old who was killed on her way home from school in 1995, is brought back into the forefront when detective James Cormack warms up to her cold case.

Available on AMC+.

Poker Face

A wonderful hidden gem nestled in the digital library of Peacock, Poker Face stars a brilliant Natasha Lyonne as Charlie Cale, a casino worker on the lamb who uses her innate ability to solve whodunits. Each hour-long episode includes a different mystery to unravel; think of it like Murder, She Wrote for the modern age.

Available on Peacock.

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.

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