ML Interest Tag: teach

One Cool Thing: How to Make Your Own Bubbles

by Erin Lem

It’s the peak season for this classic kid activity

On our list of timeless traditions that never go out of style are sidewalk chalk art, jump rope, and blowing bubbles. If you’re tired of buying ready-made bubble wands, here’s how to make bubbles at home using ordinary household items that you likely already have on hand.

What You Will Need:

12 cups of water
1 cup dish soap
1 cup cornstarch
2 tbsp baking powder
1-2 wire coat hangers and a frying pan
1 6-pack plastic ring
Paper towel tube

How to Make Bubbles:

In a clean bucket or dishpan mix together the ingredients in order. Keep a ladle or scoop in the bucket and stir occasionally making sure not to cause too much foam. Remove the excess foam as it appears. When the bucket is half empty add another cup of water.

No wands handy? You can use a paper towel tube, plastic rings from a 6 pack, and even those old wire hangers! Bend the coat hanger into the shape of a loop and dip it into the frying pan letting the excess drip off before waving it through the air.

Tips for Making Perfect Bubbles:

We found that Joy and Dawn dish soap brands work the best. You can also use tear-free baby shampoo if you have little ones around. While this bubble recipe is designed and tested to work in any weather, humidity really does matter. Warm and humid days will produce the best bubbles around. If you have a windy day, try blowing downwind letting mother nature do the work for you! Make your solution a couple of days beforehand and keep the extra. A solution that has marinated for a while produces the biggest bubbles of all.

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

 

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5 Reasons to Encourage Your Kids to Be (Extra) Curious

by Shelley Massey

How many questions a day do you answer? Probably thousands, right? Congrats. You are winning at this parenting thing

They say that curiosity may have killed the cat, but as it turns out, it’s a great thing in kids. And since research suggests that curiosity is an accelerant, if not a root cause of learning, then it’s no surprise that educators are taking a closer look at the relationship between natural curiosity in kids and skills that predict success in life. Here are five reasons why supporting your curious kid is more important than ever.

Curiosity Drives Learning

As noted in Psychological Science, “Researchers have demonstrated that curiosity—long thought to help motivate learning—is also associated with better learning outcomes.” Simply—a child’s curiosity about a subject correlates with whether they’ll retain what they learn. Most interestingly, kids remember lessons the most when they were stumped in the first place. Curiosity and learning are, therefore, less about finding answers than about the process of seeking understanding.

Educators who slow down and provide students time to wonder and be curious about an idea before expecting them to provide a rote answer are adept at fostering curiosity in the classroom. “Curiosity does not hold up well under intense expectation. Our role as teachers is not to provide answers. Our role is to give time and free rein to inherent curiosity and questions and let our students exist in the heightened state of hungering for knowledge,” explains education advisor and professor Eric Shonstrom.

Curiosity Builds Psychological Safety & Is a Healthy Response to Uncertainty

The Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) reports children’s depression and anxiety rates may have doubled since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Developing a curiosity skillset can help create your children’s psychological safety, which is the idea that someone feels safe or not afraid of being labeled or criticized for saying what they are thinking and feeling, as well as equip them with a healthy response to operating amid uncertainty.

Curiosity is also a healthy response for a child operating amid uncertainty; seeking more information helps children feel more empowered, which combats the anxiety of helplessness. “When you learn to ask more questions—especially in ambiguous situations—you’re building ‘curiosity muscles,'” says Liz Guthridge, founder of Connect Consulting Group.

Related: 13 Beautiful Books for Curious Kids

Curiosity Breeds Persistence & Scientific Thinking

curious kid playing with toys
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Have you ever been stumped? You’re literally out of ideas, and the best option is to chuck it all and go home. If you can’t think of a way out, you quit. But, when you simply must know who, what, when, where, and why, you rarely run out of questions, and you rarely quit.

Curious kids simply don’t run out of questions. One observation leads to another, and “what ifs” become “how could.” The countless questions often fired from the back seat of your car are exhibits of your child’s persistence. Instead of “giving up” on an idea, they keep turning it over, examining it from new angles and different perspectives. Keep answering those questions—even when it seems like you’re on 1,999,999 because a persistent child is a resilient child.

Curiosity Counteracts Boredom & Grows Self-Sufficiency

The old saying “curiosity killed the cat” isn’t too far off the mark when you consider most of the trouble that kids get into starts with boredom. Naturally curious children can go “un-entertained,” a.k.a. flat-out-bored, without incident. When your child is occupied with imagination—about how things work, about discovering solutions to challenges that everyday interactions in the world afford—they are more likely to be able to figure things out in other situations. Ultimately, curiosity gives children opportunities to become more confident and that grows self-sufficiency.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, sensory play is an excellent way to spark a young child’s curiosity. As they reach out to what is around them, their discoveries are cataloged. The more experiences they gather, the better they become at differentiating between them, and their curiosity about what makes one experience different from the next will grow.

Curiosity Makes Your Kids Happier

Instead of being inwardly focused, curious children are aware of what’s going on around them. Research has shown that trying new things, looking for new adventures, and being interested in others promote overall well-being. And, as noted in Greater Good Magazine, our brains release dopamine and other feel-good chemicals when we encounter new things. So, if your curious kid is busy expanding their horizons, whether in school, in activities, or in friendships, there’s a good chance they’re going to feel pretty darn good about themselves.

Related: 7 Podcasts That Curious Kids Will Love

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What Life Is Really Like with a Third Baby

by Faye Nagy

For all the parents who have ever wondered, “should I have a third child?” this is for you

Triple your pleasure; triple your fun. When you have a third child, you’ll need a bigger car and a lot more snacks, and you’ll be rewarded with more love and wild adventures. Read on to find out what life is like when you add a third baby to the family.

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Pregnancy? What Pregnancy?
With your first, you have time to read baby books and take childbirth classes. Pregnancy with your second is a bit more hectic as you have to coordinate hospital tours and baby-registry shopping trips around nap time. But by the time you’re pregnant with baby 3, you’re lucky if you can even remember to take your prenatal vitamin each morning. Between taking care of two other children and driving around to all their activities, your third learns to go with the flow from the time they're in the womb.

Delivery Is Orchestrated with the Precision of a Space Shuttle Launch
For the delivery of your third baby, you will need to begin preparations weeks in advance to ensure your other two children are accounted for. Schedules, locations, contact numbers and contingency plans should be documented and emailed to your entire circle so your kids can be picked up, dropped off and cared for while number three is making its arrival.

Practical > Cute in the Clothing Department
With your first, you buy all the adorable baby outfits and don't worry about the number of buttons and snaps. Your second wears some hand-me-downs along with simple sleepers added to the rotation. By the time your third baby comes along, they're living in secondhand onesies and pajamas that provide easy diaper-changing access.

Someone Is Always Hungry or Thirsty
With three kids, you learn to always be prepared with snacks and drinks. Whether you're nursing an infant, peeling oranges for a toddler or fetching crackers for a preschooler, someone always needs something. Usually when you’re using the restroom or are on the phone because #momlife.

Nature Never Stops Calling
Have three children and maybe a pet, and you'll be constantly changing a diaper, taking someone to the potty or taking a fur baby out for a walk. No longer will anyone in the household be squeamish about poop—talking about it or cleaning it up.

Everyone Adjusts to the Chaos
With three young children, you become accustomed to a minimum threshold of background noise. You accept that it will always be there and learn to tune it out. Fortunately, so do the children. Just wait to be amazed at how quickly baby number three will fall asleep despite older siblings' shouts, laughs and musical toys.

It’s an Instant Party
With three kids, the party never ends. Scheduling playdates isn't as necessary because every single day is a playdate right at home. Bring three kids to a park or an event, and suddenly it’s a party. All the neighborhood kids come calling to play with one, two or all three of your children.

Cuddles Galore
With three, you will never want for love. Eager arms are always outstretched and waiting to hug you, and you will constantly find a child or three snuggling into your side. Someone always wants to play with you, giggle with you or be held by you. It’s as heartwarming as it sounds and does wonders for the ego.

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Maximum Return on Investment
With three kids, you ensure you get your money's worth on all the gear you've purchased. Clothes, strollers and toys all get passed down, eliminating the need to purchase much of anything for baby number three but diapers and new car seats when your current ones expire.

Built-in Teachers
With your first, you are the model for everything your child learns to do. You teach and instruct and celebrate each milestone. But once you have two and three children, older siblings step in to help teach their younger siblings. Potty training a third? Leave it to the older kids and watch them pass on your wisdom.

You No Longer Sweat the Small Stuff
Firstborn children tend to have every step carefully monitored for their safety. Second children get away with more as you're learning to divide your attention between two kids running in opposite directions. But by the time number three is born, you’ve realized kids are pretty resilient. Besides, you no longer have time to obsess over minor details. So all three children are given more latitude as you save your energy for what's truly important.

The Love Is Overwhelming
This is really what it’s all about. Triple the love. Three times the hugs. Your heart bursts every time you look at all of your children together. You realize they'll always have each other, and you can't imagine your life without them and their amazing bond.

RELATED STORIES:

9 Products You Need with a Second (or Third or Fourth) Child

13 Signs You’re on Your Second Baby

New Mom’s Survival Guide for Going Back to Work

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8 Ways to Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day in San Diego with Your Kids

by Aimee Della Bitta

On Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, discover celebrations and local volunteering opportunities for you and your kids around San Diego

When is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day? MLK Day takes place the third Monday in January each year, and this year, MLK Day is on January 17. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a day for all Americans to unite to honor the legacy and tireless work of this champion of civil rights. In addition to celebrating King’s legacy, this holiday has also become a National Day of Service—encouraging Americans to volunteer and do good in their communities. Here are all the ways to celebrate MLK’s life and how your family can give back to your community, right here in San Diego.

How to Celebrate MLK Day in San Diego

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1. Minecraft March on Washington (Virtual Event)

Jan. 14 & 16: As part of LA Works MLK Day of Service, this virtual event builds upon the anti-racism movement through an interactive march on Washington in Minecraft and an in-person event at LA Memorial Coliseum. Tour a virtual exhibit of the 1963 March on Washington and interact with civil rights leaders like Rev. Dr. King himself. The event takes place from noon-9 p.m. on Jan. 14 and 10 a.m.-9 p.m. on Jan. 16. Advance registration is required and closes at 5 p.m. on Jan. 11. Once you register, LA Works will email a link to attend the event. Access to Minecraft (Java or Bedrock edition) is required. Event details.

2. 2nd Annual MLK Community Day of Service

Jan. 14: Join District 1 Council Member Consuelo Martinez and the City of Escondido for a day of service in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.. Volunteers will work together to remove litter and green waste from Washington Park and 2 miles of our community bike trail. Our park and creek trail are accessed by community members of all ages to enjoy riding bikes, jogging, walking, skateboarding, and giving access to many of the city’s parks and amenities. Event details.

3. 41st Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade

Jan. 15: One of the largest celebrations of its kind in the United States in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The parade is filled with dazzling floats, phenomenal high school bands, drill teams, colleges and universities, fraternities, sororities, churches, peace and youth organizations. Coordinated by the Zeta Sigma Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., the oldest African American fraternity in America, founded in 1906. This event supports scholarship opportunities for the youth of San Diego. Event details.

4. WorldBeat Cultural Center's 33rd Annual MLK Day Celebration

Jan. 16: Join the WorldBeat Cultural Center in its 33rd Annual Martin Luther King Day Celebration celebrating unity in the San Diego community. In honor of Martin Luther King Jr, the free celebration a family-friendly festival with live music, dancing, vegan food, an outdoor cultural arts & craft vendors marketplace, and more. The event also includes multi-cultural performances and special guest speakers. Event details.

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5. 35th Annual All Peoples Celebration

Jan. 16: Alliance San Diego is excited to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with the 34th Annual All People's Celebration. The event will be held in person, however, tickets for the in-person event are sold out. You can join virtually through a live, dynamic program. There will be amazing performances and a powerful keynote from disabled rights activist Rebecca Cokley. Event details.

6. MLK Day Critter Camp at the Animal Center

Jan. 16: Kids can learn so much through interacting with animals. Most importantly, they discover that all living beings deserve compassion and understanding—a lesson Martin Luther King Jr. fought every day to teach. This year, in honor of MLK Day, Critter Camp at Helen Woodward Animal Center is focused on creating a more humane world. Campers will interact with a goat, Madagascar hissing cockroach, chicken, snake and guinea pig while learning how to be compassionate to all animals. Event details.

7. 15th Annual Interfaith Day of Service

Jan. 16: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. famously proclaimed, “If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do…you have to keep moving forward.” This year, you and your family can partake in an event that brings people of different faiths and cultural backgrounds together for a wonderful morning of hands-on community service, fun and fellowship. Families are encouraged to participate together on this day of community work, suitable for all ages. Event details.

8. Create Your Own Day of Service with AmeriCorps

Looking for a way to volunteer with your kids but haven't found the right fit? Visit AmeriCorps to learn more about how you can create your own event and encourage kids in your community to volunteer and be of service—because serving others has a profound positive benefit on those who volunteer. Need extra encouragement to kick off your day of service? Kids who volunteer are three times more likely to volunteer as adults, and steady volunteering (even one hour a week) reduces negative behaviors in kids. Event details.

 

 

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The Ultimate Best Teacher Gifts from Etsy

by Kate Cartia

Only the best teacher gifts will do for our favorite educators.

There really won’t ever be enough we can do to thank our kids’ teachers. It doesn’t matter how hard we try or the size of the gift we find, the things our teachers do goes so far beyond just a present. They don’t just teach our little ones 5 days a week. They do so much more. Our teachers inspire, protect, focus, challenge, and motivate us. Spending their own money on classroom supplies isn’t uncommon and they’re rarely actually off the clock. They deserve more than just the best teacher gifts we can give them, but we’re sure going to try to get close!

We think teachers are probably used to getting the usual teacher gifts, so we wanted to make sure we find only the most unique gifts out there. And when it comes to unique gifts, there’s only one place to turn: Etsy. Where else can you find one-of-a-kind goodies and support small businesses as easily? Etsy is our go-to for lots of holiday gifts, of course, but we’re on the hunt for teacher gifts that they’ll love and that no one else will be giving. Whether you’re searching for something that’s just from your family, or ideas for a class collaboration, we’ve got the best teacher gifts right here!

Framed Crayon Letter Art

We love the idea of taking our teacher's last name and creating an art piece that they'll love for years to come!

Framed Crayon Letter Art ($32.99+)—Buy Now

"It Takes a Big Heart" Necklace

Can't go wrong with sweet and simple! This pretty necklace is available in gold, silver, or rose gold.

"It Takes a Big Heart" Necklace ($20.40)—Buy Now

"I'll Wait" Sweatshirt

Show them you get it with this sweatshirt. Available in multiple colors.

"I'll Wait" Sweatshirt ($13.50+)—Buy Now

"Thanks For Putting Up With My Kid" Candle

Available in 4, 9, or 16oz jars and a whole bunch of yummy scents.

"Thanks For Putting Up With My Kid" Candle ($12.00+)—Buy Now

Hogwarts-Inspired Teacher Name Plate

If you have a Harry Potter-loving teacher (lucky you!), we've found the perfect gift!

Hogwarts-Inspired Teacher Name Plate ($23.00+)—Buy Now

Cute Things My Students Say Teacher Journal

This journal is totally blank and ready to be filled with your favorite teacher's favorite memories.

Cute Things My Students Say Teacher Journal ($17.99)—Buy Now

Personalized Teacher Blanket

We all know that classrooms are notoriously cold, so this blanket checks all the boxes!

Personalized Teacher Blanket ($30.00+)—Buy Now

Mini Succulent Pot + Plant

We think most of the best classrooms have at least one plant, and this one offers a little something extra as a reminder.

Mini Succulent Pot + Plant ($26.00)—Buy Now

Classroom Welcome Mat

Indoor or out, this a-door-able welcome mat is a great gift!

Classroom Welcome Mat ($19.80+)—Buy Now

Unicorn Mug

A unicorn dabbing, you say? Of course. Available in 11 and 15oz and several color combinations.

Unicorn Mug ($26.31+)—Buy Now

Pencil & Paper Socks

How. Cute. Are. These?? They're also personalized, so you can snag them for all your kids' teachers!

Pencil & Paper Socks ($21.25)—Buy Now

Attendance Sticker

This would be a cute addition to a gift card or gift basket.

Attendance Sticker ($3.25+)—Buy Now

Pebble Art

This one is available framed or unframed and is a definite one-of-a-kind gift.

Pebble Art ($26.01+)—Buy Now

Personalized Whistle Key Ring

Available in pink or blue, this definitely beats the whistle they have already. Plus, they'll use it all the time!

Personalized Whistle Key Ring ($15.37+)—Buy Now

Custom Class Name Plate

The perfect "from the class" gift (and made even better paired with some cookies or cupcakes!).

Custom Class Name Plate ($35.00)—Buy Now

Teacher Pointer

We're loving these blingy 15in pointers and we think your teacher will too!

Teacher Pointer ($23.00)—Buy Now

Coach Print

Create a personalized typography print with any words or colors for your teacher or coach.

Coach Print ($30.73+)—Buy Now

Coach Gift Card Holder Ornament

We know that gift cards are always appreciated, but this is a fantastic way to present one!

Coach Gift Card Holder Ornament ($18.00)—Buy Now

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 Etsy.

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14 Table Manners to Encourage Better Behavior

by Beth Shea

This list of classic table manners is great for formal holiday gatherings

If you remember your parents raging against elbows on the table when you were a kid, you’re not alone. While these memories may now seem old-fashioned, having good manners will never go out of style. Use the holiday season as an opportunity to help your kids to practice proper etiquette (if they’re old enough to understand the concept). From putting a napkin in their lap to clearing their plate off the table and everything in between, here are the table manners that’ll encourage the best behavior when dealing with a more formal dining situation

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1. Come to the table with a clean face and hands.

Bite-sized etiquette: Especially given the fact that kids will be sharing serving utensils with others, a quick wash really won't hurt.

2. Place your napkin in your lap before eating.

Bite-sized etiquette: Little kids can fold their napkins in half to make them smaller and keep them in place. Having something in the kids' lap is a great reminder not to lick food off their fingers!

3. Unless told otherwise, wait until everyone is seated and served to begin eating.

Bite-sized etiquette: This rule varies based on how formal or casual the meal is, whether it's buffet-style or if the kids are actually old enough to wait. Some hosts will also insist you start eating immediately if the food is hot (so it doesn't go cold while you wait). If they aren't sure, teach kids to show consideration by asking if they can start their meal once served or whether they should wait.

Related: This Is How I Teach My Child Simple Manners (You’re Welcome)

using utensils properly is good table manners
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4. Try to hold your cutlery properly and (for older kids) cut your food with a fork and knife.

Bite-sized etiquette: Once your kids are old enough (toddlers get a hall pass!), teach them how to cut their food using a fork and knife and show them how to bring food up to their mouth instead of leaning over to eat. Here's a guide to fork and knife etiquette.

5. Don't talk while there's food in your mouth.

Bite-sized etiquette: This seems simple enough, but even adults sometimes have trouble waiting to say something until they've swallowed their food. Remind kids to chew with their mouths closed and not to burp with abandon.

6. But do talk to everyone at the table.

Bite-sized etiquette: It's fun to have a one-on-one with someone, but not always when there are two, three, or more people at the table. Encourage kids to engage with everyone sitting down to dine, whether it's just mom or dad or includes others like grandparents, family, or friends.

Hannah Tasker via Unsplash

7. Don't play with your food.

Bite-sized etiquette: With so many hand-held foods in the mix on a regular dinner night (think tacos, fries, nuggets, pizza, hard-boiled eggs, etc.), kids may find it tempting to play with their meals. Let young diners know they should stick to eating their food instead of making it double as a toy (you can make exceptions for littler ones and picky eaters who are learning to eat new foods).

8. Double-dipping is a no-no.

Bite-sized etiquette: To avoid sharing germs and to practice common courtesy, don't double-dip! Instead, if you spot salsa, ranch, guacamole, or hummus, serve yourself the amount you want onto your own plate and then dip as much as you want into that individual portion. Think it's no big deal to plunge that bitten chip into the guac a second time? Read this to see why even science says you shouldn't do it!

Related: Why Family Dinner Conversations Are So Important & How We Make Them Matter

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9. Ask for out-of-reach food to be passed to you.

Bite-sized etiquette: Avoid leaning over the table to access an out-of-reach item. Say "Please pass the peas" and wait for the person closest to the dish to send them your way.

10. Don't complain about the food.

Bite-sized etiquette: This is a huge one! Every parent has cooked a meal only to be met with moans and groans once served. Appreciation and respect for what's prepared starts at the home table. Kids may be a guest at grandma's or a friend's house, and they need to learn to be grateful and have good manners for what is on the table (Note: this advice is in the absence of food allergies or diet restrictions—in this situation, kids should always voice what they can and can't eat).

Dan Gold via Unsplash

11. No electronic devices (or toys) at the table.

Bite-sized etiquette: We all do it, but when screens at the table aren't appropriate, practice what you preach and don't allow smartphones, electronic devices, or toys anywhere near the dinner table. Also, refrain from answering phone calls, emails, or texts until the meal is over. Recent studies show that almost half of parents share fewer meals with their families today than they did as kids, and "57% of parents agree that even when they eat together as a family, some of their family members are distracted by technology."

12. Stay at the dinner table until everyone finishes eating or ask to be excused (then clear your plate).

Bite-sized etiquette: Family dinners should include everyone enjoying each other's company until the last person has finished eating. If the kiddo needs to leave the table before then, they should ask for permission to be excused. At the meal's end, have kids clear their plates and offer to clear others if necessary, then end the meal by saying thank you.

Related: From Manners to Empathy, 5 Skills That Tech Might Be Eroding

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13. Leave inappropriate talk at the door.

Kids may think potty humor is hilarious, and you might even be forced to swallow a giggle sometimes, but the dinner table isn't the optimal place to hear jokes about flatulence.

14. Say thank you for the meal.

Bite-sized etiquette: Someone, whether it was you or a family member or friend, put a lot of effort into cooking the food, and kids should recognize and give props to the chef.

 

 

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She’s Just Not That Into You: When Adult Friendships End

By Melanie Forstall

“She doesn’t want to be my friend anymore.”

We’ve certainly been there. As a mother of two young children, I’ve unfortunately had both of them make this sad declaration. Relational aggression in young children is a real thing, and it happens far earlier than I was prepared for. It forced us to have discussions about complex feelings and emotions much earlier than anticipated. As an adult, though, this doesn’t really happen, right? That’s what I thought until it happened to me.

I have a long history of great relationships with women, yet when it comes to my current circle of friends, it’s relatively small. Which, for me, is perfectly fine. I would much rather have a few, strong friendships than a huge circle of people I don’t truly love being around. Friendships change, shrink and expand—I get that, but I wasn’t necessarily prepared for a friend to leave me.

As I look back at some of my relationships, I see that many were situational. We were friends because we worked together, had a class together, the list goes on. Situational friendships are like the seasons, they come and go, but they can be just as wonderful as life-long ones.

When I first started teaching, the greatest blessing, besides our amazing principal, was the women I worked with. This was a group of strong, kick-ass humans who persisted daily to get stuff done. We were faced with a number of challenges but consistently greeted each day with a passion and joy that permeated the school. We were smart, beautiful, hard-working, and clearly committed to our job and each other. While I’m no longer teaching there, I’m still very much in contact with many of these women. I could call any one of them tomorrow and pick up right where we left off. Some of us, 15 years later, still exchange Christmas cards.

My friendships now are different. They really are no longer situational, in large part because my life is relatively permanent. I’m not working my way through college and I’m (thankfully) no longer in graduate school. I’m firmly planted. So, it was my assumption that one friendship, in particular, was ef for the long haul as well.

We were friends. We lived close to each other so getting together was a regular occurrence. We talked and laughed through playdates with our kids that lasted for hours. It was easy, and I could tell her just about anything. She was the next person, after my husband, to know I was pregnant with my second child. She called me when there was an emergency with one of her children. She called me to share cupcakes. There were so many things that signaled friendship permanence—kids’ ages, school, church, proximity. It just made sense that we’d always be friends.

I realized one day, somewhat out of the blue, that the calls to chat and texts to set up playdates were totally lopsided. It stopped me in my tracks. When it came to flexing the friendship muscle, I was the one doing all the heavy lifting. I felt a flush of embarrassment. Was I the only one interested in keeping this friendship alive? Should I say something? I tried to assure myself that I was imagining it all, so instead of an awkward, dramatic confrontation, I pulled back. I intentionally pulled back for about a week to see what happened. Nothing. I swallowed hard.

Her birthday came along and even though we had not talked or texted for a few weeks, I knew it was her birthday. It’s one thing if I forget, but to knowingly ignore someone’s birthday is something I just can’t do, so I sent her a birthday text along with birthday cake and celebration emojis. I felt a pang of embarrassment but knew it was the right thing to do. After that, the friendship went completely dark.

I spent some time during the weeks after rummaging through my memories trying to figure out what had happened. Was it something I did? Something I said? Was I not enough for her? Was I too much for her? The truth is, I will never know and thankfully I’m in a place now where I really don’t want to know. I don’t want to unearth something that I likely can’t do anything to fix, repair, or remedy. It’s over, and I have to be okay with that.

I know that I will never be everything to anyone and that may mean people will leave me. I guess I’d rather have a painful breakup than stay in a friendship that isn’t healthy. Especially if the other person doesn’t want to be friends anymore. If ending the friendship was best for her, then honestly, I am happy for her.

The thing is, though, when we were friends, we talked about exactly that. Doing what’s best for yourself no matter what. She was often stuck in situations she was unable to get out of because of the fear of upsetting those around her. I often encouraged her not to worry about what other people thought. “Do what’s best for you and your family. Even if other people don’t like it.”

So, maybe I should have seen this coming? Well, maybe not. Friendships come in and out of our lives for seasons and sometimes for reasons. While I enjoyed this friendship for the season, all I can hope for is that it existed for a reason.

Melanie Forstall is a full-time mother, full-time wife, full-time teacher, and never-enough-time blogger at Melanie Forstall: Stories of Life, Love, and Mothering. She holds a doctorate in education and yet those many years of schooling have proved to be utterly useless when it comes to actual mothering.

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World Teachers’ Day is Here! These Teacher Gifts are a Great Way to Celebrate

by Kate Cartia

October 5th, 2022 marks World Teachers’ Day

2022’s World Teachers’ Day theme, The Transformation of Education Begins With Teachers, calls on governments to invest in, involve, trust, and respect teachers. It’s super easy to get behind that message, and beyond that, it’s also a great time to show the teachers in our lives that we trust and respect them, today and every day.

We’re pretty sure there aren’t enough ways to thank teachers, and we’re positive we’d all need more than just one day to even try, but our list of World Teachers’ Day gifts might just be a good start!

white mug with black text

You're Awesome Mug

$7 BUY NOW

If you're looking for a gift that covers all the bases (caffeine and compliments, of course), look no further than this 16oz coffee mug!

Dr. Seuss Book Cover

Dr. Seuss's Oh, What I've Learned: Thanks to My Teachers!

$8 BUY NOW

Dr. Seuss does it again with this adorable mini-book for teachers! It's an awesome alternative to a greeting card, too.

Four wine bottles with funny labels

Teacher Appreciation Wine Bottle Labels

$10 BUY NOW

Help their favorite teachers relax with a great bottle of wine, or bottled beverage of choice, and one of these cheeky teacher-ready stick-on labels!

Solar System Mismatched Earrings

$50 BUY NOW

Earth Science enthusiasts will love celebrating World Teachers' Day in celestial style with these unique mismatched solar system earrings!

F in Exams book

F in Exams

$9 BUY NOW

250 of the very best wrong answers from grade school to high school grace the pages of this hilarious book. (And teachers are sure to appreciate that they don't have to grade any of them!)

White jar candle with the words Teacher's Last Nerve

Teacher's Last Nerve Candle

$23 BUY NOW

Both the scent of lavender and a good laugh are remedies to life's (or classroom) stresses, and this cute little candle takes care of both!

Set of self-inking stamps

Self-Inking Motivational Teacher Stamps

$13 BUY NOW

These self-inking stamps are great for saving teachers from having to write and rewrite the same messages when grading!

What Do You Meme Teacher's Edition

$25 BUY NOW

From the folks who created the cult hit "What Do You Meme" comes the Teacher Edition that's guaranteed to keep them laughing (NOTE: This one is recommended just for the grownups 17+)

Math themed wall clock

Math Wall Clock

$23 BUY NOW

This clever wall clock is ideal for the classroom or home. There's no way you won't make your math teacher's day!

Silver coach's whistle on black lanyard

Personalized Coach's Whistle

$19 BUY NOW

We didn't forget our favorite coaches! This personalized stainless steel whistle lets you create a custom message on both sides.

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