Today my six-year-old daughter screamed the whole way home because I would not buy her a pottery wheel. Today I lost my patience. I will lose my patience again tomorrow.
I sometimes clean up her messes, because I can’t deal with the potential meltdown or maintain the calm presence required to walk her through how to clean it on her own.
I let her watch kids’ shows with obnoxious characters who whine a lot and lack depth.
I tune her out after hours of nonstop talking. Lord knows what I have given her permission to do when answering with a vague, “Yeah, sure.”
Yesterday she informed me that she hates quesadillas, one of the five or so foods she has always willingly consumed. Eat chicken nuggets then. Whatever.
I catch myself whining at her in the same voice that enrages me when it comes from her mouth. I am failing by example.
I’ve read the articles; I know the current “rules” of being a great mother. I think most of those carefully curated “shoulds” were written by liars and people who have never been around children. At best, they are hopeful ideals.
I gave in to the tantrum because my brain was so loud, and it was the only way to filter out some of the noise.
I am not teaching her enough about empathy and equity and racism and compassion and feminism and and and…
I said it was time to go! Get your shoes on right now!
Kids need rules and structure and patience. Those things do not play well together. Probably because their mothers failed them.
I played on my phone. I played on my phone because I needed to escape, and if you just leave your kid at the park, people call CPS.
In a minute, I’m busy right now.
I’m busy not volunteering at school. Not reading enough books to her. Not not not.
Inside my head, there is a version of me sitting with my head between my knees and my hands over my ears. Inside my head, there’s a version of my kids tapping me on the shoulder, repeating, “Mommy, watch this. Mom. Mommy. Mom.” Because of course.
But I do know this. At the end of the day, she asks to cuddle. She shares her dinnertime candy with me because she “likes to do nice things for people.” She talks about the fun things I actually mustered up the energy to do, not as a way of saying how much better I could be, but as a way of saying how much “enough” I am. She sometimes mimics my worst but also mimics my best.
So maybe there is hope. Maybe it’s not so bad. Maybe there is always tomorrow.
Dear Mom Who Is Totally Screwing Up, I wish this could be one of those uplifting messages about how you’re really not. But maybe you are. How the hell would I know? All I have to offer you is solidarity and a glass of wine.
Rhiannon Giles is an overwhelmed mother who only occasionally considers giving her children to the circus. She has a sarcasm problem and writes regularly at rhiyaya.com. To keep up with new posts and see some of her favorites, join her on Facebook and Twitter.
Take a chill pill, ’90s kids! We’ve gathered your favorite foods of yesteryear into one nostalgic roundup of ’90s candy and snacks. Some are discontinued, and some are downright dated (hello, Bubble Beeper!), but they’re all guaranteed to inspire a few choice cravings.
Sure, these were just a smaller version of Butterfingers, but there was an irresistible Simpsons tie-in. And if Butterfinger BBs were good enough for the Bartman, they were good enough for us '90s kids.
The '90s elixir known as Cherry Coke was the cherry-flavored soda of choice. It had the taste of a classic fountain drink and the rad packaging that was quintessential 1990s.
Sure, Fruit by the Foot is still around today—but the '90s version was extra psychedelic and almost 50% sugar, which may account for about a decade of sugar highs.
Dunk-a-roos were basically the currency of the '90s playground. Bite-sized cookies that you could dunk into super sweet frosting? It was a kid's dream-come-true.
We're not sure where the "fruit" factors into these jelly candies that explode neon goo, but we know that Fruit Gushers were responsible for many a blue tongue in the 1990s.
The answer to all your yogurt mobility problems of the 1990s! Since this snack can still be found in lunchboxes today, it's clear Gogurt was the yogurt of the future.
Ring Pops were the most popular bling of the '90s and the very best reason to eat your jewelry. Why would you want a boring ol' lollipop when you could have a Ring Pop?
From stuffed crust to pizza rolls, the 1990s were kind of a big deal for pizza. And nothing topped Totino's, or the feeling of victory when you found them in the freezer after school.
What '90s kid could resist the rainbow-in-a-cup that was Trix Yogurt? Per Trix rules, it was "just for kids," so if the exclusivity didn't get ya, the flashy commercials sure would.
It's a tried-and-true fact that the way to a kid's stomach is with brightly colored, weirdly-shaped snacks. That's why it should be no surprise that Cheetos Paws were such a hit.
Ah, PB Max, we hardly knew ye! This peanut butter-and-chocolate candy bar (with a cookie thrown in!) wasn't around for long, but it'll always have a place in '90s kids hearts.
Real talk: Kudos were supposedly a healthier alternative to candy bars. All we remember is that they were chock-full of chocolate and topped with candy.
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2022, meet the Valentine’s Day tree. It’s practical, because that tree in your living room corner? It just got a new lease on life. It’s fun. And it’s all the rage. All we wish is that we were the ones to think of it.
Don’t over-think this. Just strip your Christmas tree of all the holiday decor and re-dress it with ornaments that say “love.” Whether you adorn it with the cute decorations we’ve found below, or turn it into the crafting frenzy that your four-year-old craves, your family will adore this new festive tradition.
Perfect as-is, these ornaments also offer endless crafting possibilities. Add your own love notes, funny Valentine's Day jokes and more on the ornament with just a Sharpie.
Fact: there’s never been a puddle our kids didn’t like. In order to keep little feet dry (and your sanity intact), why not add a shiny new pair of rain boots to your family’s collection of outdoor gear? From the ever-popular Target rain boots for kids to the cult-favorite Crocs kids’ rain boots, we’ve curated a list that’ll be sure to have something that fits your needs. Scroll down to see them all.
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With a vintage-yet-thoroughly-modern vibe, we love this gender-neutral Paper & String rainboot from London Littles. The whimsical kite pattern against a striking, cheerful yellow will brighten any day and keep their toes warm and dry, too.
There's a reason these rain boots are a favorite with parents. Basic but sturdy, the range of colors means you can find a pair that'll go with just about anything your kid wears.
You love Western Chief boots even before you buy them—these classic rain boots for toddlers and kids include the signature styles like firefighter and frog, as well as a selection of character boots including Batman and Minnie Mouse.
We love the comfort level of this boot—it's like wearing a sneaker. Kids can run, jump, climb and splash all they want and they might not even notice when it stops raining. They come in other colors, too!
We love the easy pull-on handles that help independent toddlers jam those boots on and go! Plus, with extra features to keep feet dry, rainy days can be outdoor play days, too.
Your favorite comfort shoe comes in a rain boot for toddlers and little kids too! This unisex style is offered in seven bright colors and is made with the same material your own feet love.
Bold, bright colors meet minimalist design in these waterproof boots that have a rubber-like red finish. Tested to keep kids’ feet dry for over four hours submerged in water, these boots are also ergonomically designed for maximum foot health for your puddle stompers. Toddler & big kid sizes are available; you’ll want to check out the sizing chart before you order.
Sperry’s classic-look duck boot in mini sizes, these boots have the ultimate wet/dry traction and a zipper closure for a close fit and easy on/off. They’re perfect for super active kids who never let a little rain or light snow stop them.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year: the Christmas (music) season! We’ve rounded up the top holiday songs and albums to get you into the Christmas spirit, whether you’re baking cookies, decorating the house or wrapping presents. From Paul McCartney to Bing Crosby and Mariah Carey, there’s something for everyone on this list. (Psst … scroll down to the bottom of the article for a Spotify playlist with all the songs mentioned.)
“White Christmas” by Bing Crosby
Christmas wouldn’t be the same without this absolute classic by Bing Crosby. In fact, his version, originally released in 1942, is actually the world’s best-selling single, with an estimated 50 million copies sold worldwide.
“Last Christmas” by Wham!
Dripping with ‘80s vibes, it’s tough not to break into song and dance when “Last Christmas” comes on. It’s been covered countless times by everyone from Jimmy Eat World to Carly Rae Jepsen, but the George Michael original will always have a special place in our hearts.
"Christmas" by Michael Bublé
Michael Bublé is basically the modern-day king of Christmas, and his festive 2011 album makes the perfect holiday soundtrack. If you’re having a holiday party, pop this YouTube video on your tv: it’s the full Christmas album paired with a burning yule log.
“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” by She & Him
This spare version of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” is just the thing to listen to while sipping on apple cider or mulled wine. If you’ve seen the movie Elf, you’ve already heard Zooey Deschanel’s singing; either way, her musical side project with singer-songwriter and guitarist M. Ward is well worth a listen.
“The Christmas Song” by Nat King Cole
Nat King Cole’s buttery smooth voice makes this a favorite Christmas song for many. It was written by Robert Wells and Mel Tormé in the dead of summer in an attempt to “stay cool by thinking cool.”
“All I Want for Christmas Is You” by Mariah Carey
This pop diva bop has become a modern classic of the Christmas genre, a real feat considering most of the popular holiday tunes are much older. It’s even the best selling Christmas single by a female artist overall.
“Carol of the Bells” by Pentatonix
We love this unique take on the classic “Carol of the Bells” by Pentatonix. The original song was based on a Ukranian folk chant, so it’s only fitting for an a cappella group to cover it.
“Jingle Bell Rock” by Bobby Helms
First released in 1957, this swingin’ Christmas song is always a hit. It gets bonus points in our book for reminding us of a certain iconic scene in the movie Mean Girls.
“It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” by Andy Williams
This song is our favorite way to kick off the Christmas season—it’s the perfect soundtrack for decorating the house. The rollicking melody will have everyone in your family singing and dancing along.
“Jingle Bells” by Frank Sinatra
Originally written in 1857, “Jingle Bells” is a perennial Christmas favorite. This jazzy version by Frank Sinatra adds something new to the song while still staying true to its roots. Check out the colorful new official video, perfect for budding Sinatra fans.
“Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” by Brenda Lee
This version of “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” was recorded in 1958 and still holds up amazingly today, with a robust brass section and expert vocals by Brenda Lee. Believe it or not, Lee was just 13 years old at the time of recording!
“I Wish It Was Christmas Today” by Julian Casablancas
Fans of The Strokes, take note: this song by the band’s lead singer Julian Casablancas is a must-listen. It’s a nice palate cleanser if you’ve grown tired of the usual Christmas classics.
"Hey Guys! It’s Christmas Time!" by Sufjan Stevens
Prolific singer-songwriter Sufjan Stevens has released five EPs of Christmas songs, but this one might be our favorite. It’s a laid-back yet catchy song celebrating the joys of Christmastime alongside sleigh bells and electric guitar.
If you’re looking for where to see The Nutcracker in NYC this holiday season, we have good news: you’ve got options. Lots of them. This classic Tchaikovsky ballet hits stages all over New York this season and whether you’re continuing a tradition or starting a new one, NYC has a production for you. Try the New York City Ballet Nutcracker at Lincoln Center, a hip-hop version, or maybe one just for little kids. Whatever you choose, get your Nutcracker tickets now—these shows sell out!
Bronx
Ballet in the Bronx: Westchester Ballet Company
This full-length presentation of the ballet promises gorgeous costumes and special effects. Presented by the Westchester Ballet Company, this performance has 100 dancers leaping and frolicking around on stage to the classic music. Be aware that all visitors 12 and over must submit vaccination proof before the event (you can upload it to the website).
Price: $24-$49 Sat., Dec. 18 at 12:30 p.m. & 4 p.m.; Sun., Dec 19 at Noon & 4 p.m. Lehman Center for the Performing Arts 250 Bedford Park Blvd. West Jerome Park Online: lehmancenter.org
Brooklyn
A Celebration of Brooklyn: The Brooklyn Nutcracker
Brooklyn Nutcracker
A re-imagined holiday classic, The Brooklyn Nutcracker fuses ballet, hip-hop and a myriad of world dance genres to create a new tradition for today’s audience. This twist on the Nutcracker classic places the story against a backdrop any Brooklynite would recognize. From Old Dutch Brooklyn to Flatbush Avenue, this version of the Nutcracker celebrates the many different cultures that make Brooklyn the wonderful melting pot that it is.
Price: $30 and up Sat., Dec. 11, 12:30 p.m. doors for 2 p.m. show, 5:30 p.m. doors for 7 p.m. show Kings Theatre 1027 Flatbush Ave. Flatbush Online: kingstheatre.com
A Fresh Take: Hip-Hop Nutcracker
Tim Norris
This magical mash-up features the original ballet score with an electronic twist, performed by an on-stage DJ and an electric violinist, plus legendary MC rapper Kurtis "The Breaks" Blow. Dancers bring the traditional story to life in a modern setting using hip-hop choreography. Directed and choreographed by Jennifer Weber, the show features the music of Tchaikovsky with the heart and soul of hip-hop. The performance uses digital graffiti and visuals to transport audiences to the setting of modern-day New York City. The reimagined performance is a fun take on the piece, and is meant as a celebration of love, community and diversity. Catch it in Brooklyn or at Newark's NJPAC.
Price: $29 and up Sun., Dec. 19, 12:30 p.m. doors for 2 p.m. show; 5 p.m. doors for 6:30 p.m. show Kings Theatre 1027 Flatbush Ave. Flatbush Online: kingstheatre.com
Price: $29 and up Sun., Dec. 18, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m. NJPAC 1 Center St. Newark, NJ Online: njpac.org
A Puppet Extravaganza: The Steadfast Tin Soldier and Nutcracker Sweets
Kids will delight as handcrafted marionettes take to the stage in this double bill from Puppetworks. Nicolas Coppola's hand-made puppets will put on a performance of the toy story "The Steadfast Tin Soldier" by Hans Christian Andersen and "Nutcracker Sweets," set to the classic music of the Nutcracker. This show is recommended for ages two and up.
Price: $11/adult, $10/child Nov. 20-Dec. 30 & Jan. 2 Every Sat. & Sun. at 12:30 p.m. & 2:30 p.m. 338 6th Avenue (at 4th Street) Park Slope 718-965-3391 Online: puppetworks.org
The Date Night Nutcracker: Nutcracker Rouge
Leave the kids at home for this one — this risqué option is for adult eyes, only! This sensational show presents a sensual take on the tale, featuring baroque-burlesque performance. Viewers will be titillated by a mix of burlesque, circus, opera and high fashion.
Price: $85 and up Various times and dates Nov.-Jan. 383 Troutman St. Bushwick Online: companyxiv.com
Manhattan
The Classic: George Balanchine's The Nutcracker
Paul Kolnik
This vast and vibrant show is made up of a large cast of performers, musicians, and stagehands, and is sure to astound viewers with its spectacular effects and props. Using Tchaikovsky's classic music and George Balanchine's choreography, this rendition of the Nutcracker is definitely one of the showiest. Watch in amazement as a 12-foot Christmas tree grows to 41 feet and marvel at the 85-pound, 9-foot wide figure of Mother Ginger. It's a dazzling sight to behold and a joy for any age.
Note: This year's performance is a little different: Due to COVID-19 restrictions, no children under 12 will be performing on stage. Kids are allowed in the audience, however — the show is recommended for kids age five and up, and all kids (including lap-sitters) require a ticket to enter.
Price: $60 and up Various times and days from Nov. 26-Jan. 2 David H. Koch Theater 20 Lincoln Center Plaza Midtown Online: nycballet.com
A Tale of New York: Francis Patrelle's The Yorkville Nutcracker
Michelle Tabnick PR
Take a trip back in time to 1895 NYC, where you can watch this story unfold amid familiar locations. The tale begins at the Gracie Mansion, where a grand celebration features famous guests like Teddy Roosevelt. The performance then takes you through Central Park, the New York Botanical Gardens, and more. Sleigh rides, life-sized mice, and plenty of visual goodies make this one a treat at any age. This year, the Yorkville Nutcracker celebrates its 25th anniversary — come join the celebration!
Price: $69 Sat., Dec. 11, 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.; Sun., Dec. 12, 12 p.m. & 5 p.m. Hunter College East 68th St. between Park and Lexington Ave. Upper East Side 212-772-4448 Online: dancespatrelle.org
The 1-hour Special: Keith Michael's "The Nutcracker"
NY Theater Ballet
Don't think your little ones can sit through an entire performance? Then Keith Michael's version might be the right option for you. Recommended for ages three and up, this performance condenses the ballet into just one hour and fills every moment with excitement and color. This version uses Tchaikovsky's original music combined with 1907-era Art Nouveau style that will surely win over the younger audience. This year's performance will take place at Brookfield Place, and will support non-profit. City Harvest. Advance registration is required, and all attendees should show up half an hour before the performance to ensure entry (though be aware that a ticket doesn't ensure a seat!). Stroller parking is available near Salvatore Ferragamo and Le District. Want a preview? You can also watch some vignettes online!
Price: Free Fri.-Sun., Nov. 26-28; Fri. at 7 p.m., Sat. at 1 p.m & 7 p.m., Sun. at 1 p.m. Winter Garden at Brookfield Place 230 Vesey St. Battery Park City Online: bfplny.com
The Photo-op: Nutcracker Ajkun Ballet Theatre
Choreography by Rae
The Ajkun Ballet Theater performs this adaptation of the Nutcracker, where the audience will get up close and personal with the performers. Set in a cozy, intimate space, visitors can enjoy the ballet and then pose with the characters for photos! All money raised by this event will be donated to "A Ticket to Dream," a program that provides free tickets to underprivileged kids and free performances to hospitalized children.
Price: $49 Sat. & Sun., Nov. 27 & 28, 7:30-9 p.m. Ballet Arts Center for Dance 130 West 56th St. Midtown Online: eventbrite.com
Musical Selections for Tots: Mozart for Munchkins' Nutcracker and Jingles
If your little ones are too young to sit through a whole ballet, they can still enjoy the music. At this cozy concert, a small group of musicians performs selections from The Nutcracker while the audience plays along with holiday bells! It's worth noting that attendance is limited and there may be standing room only.
Price: Free Sat., Dec. 18, 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Hudson Yards: Level 4 in front of H&M Between 10th & 12th Aves from West 30th to West 34th Sts Hudson Yards Online: mozartformunchkins.com
The Circus Mash-up: Nutcracker Cirque Ballet
What do you get when you combine the circus with the ballet? This show! Performed by The Muse students, this show features ballet dancing the circus arts. Watch as students pirouette and hang over the stage in this magical mash-up of performing arts!
Price: $25 at the door; $18 during pre-sale, free for kids under 12 Sat., Dec. 11, 2-3:30 p.m. The Muse Brooklyn 350 Moffat St. Bushwick Online: eventbrite.com
Queens
The Student Production: The Nutcracker, a Magical Night
The Sunnyside Ballet Studio students have been hard at work practicing their parts for this performance, and are eager to show off their skills. Come watch and support these young dancers and their studio!
Price: $20-30 Sun., Dec. 19, 2 p.m. & 5:30 p.m. Queens Theatre 14 United Nations Avenue South Sunnyside Online: eventbrite.com
For Kids Center Stage: The Nutcracker by the Joffrey Ballet School
Kids love watching kids, and the Joffrey Ballet School's rendition of the Nutcracker has over 300 tiny dancers to keep little eyes peeled on the stage! The performance is put together by students attending the Joffrey Ballet School’s Childrens, Young Dancer and Trainees program.
Price: To be announced Fri., Dec. 10-Sun., Dec. 12 Laguardia Community College 31-10 Thomson Ave. Long Island City 954-801-6209 Online: joffreyballetschool.com
Staten Island
The Ballroom Ballet: Staten Island Nutcracker
Visit Nicotra's Ballroom at the Staten Island Hilton Garden Inn for a beautiful ballet performance by the Staten Island Ballet. This full-length performance is selling out fast (the first time slot is already gone) so act fast if you want a ticket!
Price: $85 Sun., Dec. 19, 5-8 p.m. Hilton Garden Inn 1100 South Ave. 718-980-0500 Staten Island Online: siballet.org
New Jersey
A New Take on the Classic: The Nutcracker by the State Ballet Theater of Ukraine
NJPAC
Presented by the State Ballet Theater of Ukraine, this matinee performance features brand new choreography by Andrey Litvinov, and was first performed in December 2020. Watch the magic unfold as colorful toys, fairies, and other characters dance to the well-known music by Tchaikovsky.
Price: $29 and up Sun., Dec. 11, 3 p.m. 1 Center St. Newark, NJ Online: njpac.org
Online
An Online Interactive Experience: My First Nutcracker
Want to enjoy a performance of The Nutcracker from the comfort of your home? Check out the "My First Nutcracker" experience from NYC Children's Theater. This interactive streaming performance comes with a filmed video of the show, as well as bonus videos and additional activities for children. This 50-minute rendition of the tale has been adapted specifically for little kids to enjoy!
Enjoy a cup of hot cocoa with Baby Yoda, aka, The Child. Bring your favorite festive sip to a galaxy far, far way. This new hot cocoa bomb is sure to delight Star Wars Fans everywhere.
Galerie has put a Star Wars twist on the popular winter treat by introducing a Mandalorian themed version. The 2.12-ounce hot cocoa bomb is made of milk chocolate and comes with a Baby Yoda marshmallow inside.
Upon melting, a typical hot cocoa bomb will top your mug with mini marshmallows. Grab your camera, because you won’t want to miss the moment the surprise marshmallow pops from the chocolate ball.
This treat is the perfect for winter birthdays or as a stocking stuffer for the Star Wars lovers in your life. Find this fun gift on Amazon this holiday season.
Heading out of the country and sampling international foods has been put on the back burner as of late. Luckily, you don’t even have to leave your kitchen to get a head start on enjoying some of the best dishes the world has to offer. From savory meat dishes and sweet breads, to hearty soups and fondue, keep scrolling to see some of our favorite recipes from around the world.
Get this easy German Chicken Schnitzel on the table in no time thanks to Curious Cuisiniére's recipe! This thin-sliced chicken recipe cooks quickly and is easily served with traditional German sides, or along your fave veggies, too.
Chilly night? Time for some Vietnamese Phở! While this traditional soup can take quite some time to prepare (it's all about the broth!), this recipe from Gimme Some Oven gives some easy shortcuts that gets in on the table in 45 minutes. Kids will love putting in their own veggies and meat, while cutting their noodles with a pair of scissors.
Turkish gozleme is a cheese and spinach stuffed bread that is irresistible. The traditional street food can be yours by following Give Recipe, which uses a super easy dough recipe that's then packed with a savory filling and fried.
The Daring Gourmet's Cuban Ropa Vieja recipe is so easy, it will quickly become a part of your menu rotation. Made with flank steak, veggies and lots of fragrant spices, this traditional shredded beef dish easily pairs with rice and beans—things even picky eaters like! Dinner is served.
Time for a new spin on your regular chicken and rice recipe! This traditional African recipe uses Jollof rice, which is basically a blend of tomato puree and rice, and adds savory chicken and veggies. Recipes from a Pantry gives you the easy details for this baked recipe that makes dinner a breeze.
Make sneaking in the veggies a breeze with Food Fanatic's Indian Vegetable Biryani! While this recipe does have quite the ingredient list, your kiddos will hardly notice their scarfing down carrots, green beans and peas.
No Greek meal is complete without a slice of baklava. And while the layered dessert may seem difficult, it actually requires just a few ingredients and a little patience. Kids will love the sweet flavor and counting all those layers. Check out Spatula Desserts to see how easy it is!
Also known as Hokkaido milk bread, this Japanese specialty is a soft and springy bread that has a slight sweetness. It’s the perfect weekend project since you’ll need to let it rise twice. Head toSimmer + Sauce to get the recipe.
Many countries have their own version of the dumpling, but Chinese dumplings are a well-known and traditional food for families to make together for Chinese New Year. Depending on the type, they may be steamed, boiled or pan-fried, with different shapes and fillings—and they’re all tasty! Introduce your kids to this easy dumpling recipe. Meat, scallions and soy sauce combine to make these savory bites, and they're simple to make with a wonton wrapper. Try making them with the sweet and salty dipping sauce on the side.
Fondue
Angela Pham via Unsplash
Fondue is fun to eat, and kids will love the idea of dipping chunks of bread, meat and veggies into a big pot of gooey, melted cheese. This Swiss dish dates back to the 17th century, but we’re still digging it today! Have your own family fondue party with this recipe from Genius Kitchen. Want something a little sweeter? Try a chocolate fondue for dessert, and use fresh fruit and chunks of pound cake for dipping.
Take an imaginary trip to Paris when you whip up a batch of these yummy paper-thin pancakes. Originating in the northwest region of the country, creperies are now found all over France and offer both sweet and savory variations. Kids can easily help by mixing up the batter and selecting the fillings: Go classic with ham and cheese or sweet sugar and lemon, or get adventurous with your own ideas. Need some inspiration? Try this easy crepe recipe by Catherine McCord of Weelicious.
If your only experience with ramen is a ten-cent crinkly package from the grocery store, it’s time to try the real deal version of this popular Japanese dish. The nourishing broth packed with slurp-worthy noodles and endless variations of toppings is a definite kid-pleaser. Your kids can help you make this hearty version full of tofu, veggies and a bit of ginger.
Meaning “mixed rice,” this amazing dish from Korea is the ultimate rice bowl. On a bed of warm rice, you might find a combo like fried and raw veggies, seasoned grilled meat or tofu, a red chili paste called gochujang and a fried egg added on top. Bibimbap is a great way to introduce kids to new ingredients, and an even better way to use up those extra veggies that are hanging around. Check out this mouthwatering recipe from Rasa Malaysia complete with an extensive list of suggested toppings.
Turn your kids into big-time sushi lovers! Simple veggie sushi rolls are easy, healthy and just the right size for little hands. It’s fun to make and eat together at home, and even not-so-adventurous eaters will want these egg, edamame and rice rolls from hello, Wonderful. Start with basic flavors that they’ll love, and then slowly expand the sushi repertoire to include more adventurous foods and textures.
Besides being flavorful and nutritious, eating Ethiopian food is a community experience. Food is often eaten with hands and served on a large shared plate, along with plenty of injera, a spongy and slightly fermented flatbread that’s perfect for sharing. This recipe from Lighter has great tips for adjusting the flavors for kids who don’t love a ton of spice. Authentic injera takes several days for the fermenting process, but you can take the easy route and make this quick recipe in about an hour!
For a casual meal, put together tasty nibbles and make a meze platter. Made up of a variety of foods served small-plate style, meze is common throughout the Mediterranean and the Middle East, and offers the perfect opportunity for little foodies to sample new foods, like creamy hummus and baba ghanouj. Try making this gorgeous Mediterranean-inspired meze from Kitchen Treaty, and watch it disappear.
This juicy chicken made with yogurt and spices and grilled on skewers is a yummy introduction to Indian cuisine. Let the kids help in the kitchen by mixing up the yogurt and curry marinade for this quick chicken tikka that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
You can’t talk about the foods of the Caribbean without bringing up Jamaican jerk. Moist, spicy and smoky, this memorable seasoning and cooking method produces some of the most flavorful food around. Although traditional jerk can be a bit spicy for little palates, this modified version by This Week for Dinner gives you the signature flavors without as much heat.
Empanadas
Bakd&Raw by Karolin Baitinger via Unsplash
Flaky, portable and delicious, there are endless combination ideas for these perfect pastries that work for breakfast, lunch or dinner! Whether you go savory or sweet, you’re definitely in for a treat. Bring some of the flavors of South America right to your table with these homemade beef empanadas from Laylita’s Recipes.
If you love to cook, it’s hard not to want ALL the cool gadgets out there. But unless you have considerable space, it can be challenging to find a spot for all of them. Luckily, appliances are getting more compact and storage-friendly by the day. We looked around and found 14 kitchen appliances—from an Instant Pot to a food processor—that will not only free up counter space but will make your cooking endeavors that much easier. Keep reading to see them all.
All products featured on this page are independently reviewed and selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
You'll definitely want to add this toaster oven/air fryer to your kitchen gear as it comes in a too-cute red color and stores upright to save countertop space. The toast feature even adjusts cook time based on how many slices of bread you are toasting. Brilliant!
When you are looking to buy a blender, there's nothing better than a Vitamix. This powerhouse appliance will make baby food, blend your morning smoothies, puree soups and even make nut butters (if you're so inclined). Thre's no need for an ice cream maker or food processor with this versatile appliance.
If your counter is packed with both a multi-cup coffee maker and a single-cup pod brewer, we've got the perfect option for you. Ditch them both and snag this 2-in-1 machine from Cuisinart that will brew 12 cups when you are hosting friends, or a single cup when it's just you. A 40 oz. water reservoir with charcoal filter makes this even easier to use in the wee hours of the morning.
Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
Amazon
This mini version of everyone’s favorite pressure cooker takes the place of seven appliances: rice cooker, steamer, slow cooker and more. See our favorite Instant Pot recipes for busy nights here.
Juicers can be one of the largest appliances that’s hard to find a good place to store. Consider this smaller version that’s just as strong as a bigger version.
Mueller Austria Ultra-Stick Multi-Purpose Hand Blender
Amazon
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You’ve been dying to get on the air fryer bandwagon, but don’t know where you put it. Try this 4.3-quart version that takes up almost no space. See our favorite air fryer recipes by clicking here.
It’s a no-brainer that kids want to do everything that you do, including those cycling classes they see you so pumped about. The Little Tikes Pelican Explore & Fit Cycle nails it: It’s the kid-sized version of that super popular cycle…we’ll just say it rhymes with “Sweataton.”
This bike is like a cycling or spin class for kids, personality-pumped trainer included! One of our editors, Jamie Aderski, and her son, Watson (5), tested out the new Pelican Explore & Fit Cycle. Read on to learn more about the hot new bike that is sure to be on every kid’s (and parent’s) wish list!
The Review
I am a huge spin class fan (but only at home where people can’t see what a mess I am!) and I love my at-home cycling setup. When the Pelican arrived, I have to admit, I was a little jealous… of my five year old—This. Is. COOL! It’s a mini-version of my favorite ride to nowhere plus a full sensory experience—nothing “stationary” about it. Here’s what blew us away about the Pelican:
1. Motivating & Fun Trainers + Adventures
Much like that other bike, Pelican's trainers are full of energy and excitement! I love the ease of access to the vids: Just head to YouTube and hit play. Not only are their trainers top-notch, but the visuals of the videos take kids on adventures! You can experience the thrills of mountain biking or snowboarding (no real skills required) and even a roller coaster. Watson said it best: “It’s like going to another world!". Pelican, take me away...
The bike itself has adjustable seating and handlebars—perfect for kids of all sizes and if you have more than one rider, it can be easily adapted to their height. What we thought was really cool is that there's a lever that adjusts the pedal intensity, with three different levels. Hey, sometimes you wanna ride pedal-to-the-metal and sometimes you just wanna coast—Pelican gets it!
3. More Than Just Pedaling
Hot (and unexpected!) feature alert: The Pelican tilts back and forth to add to the thrills, minus the spills! Not only that, kids can "steer" the front wheel which makes for a good time. My two year old is too little to pedal the bike, but loved that she could just sit on it and go for a "ride". Watson said: "I love how bouncy it is!"—agreed! The Pelican is stationary, but not sedentary and it's pretty darn awesome!
This feature feels grown-up and cool. Watson is a big music fan and now can play his favorite jams while riding along to the beat. Favorite songs of the moment? Anything by BTS, Imagine Dragons or that Parry Grip guy—the forecast is always calling for tacos, y'all.
5. No Tablet, No Problem
That’s right. You don’t even need to part with your smartphone for this ride. The Pelican comes with built-in audio adventures to cruise along with. You get excitement right out of the box with or without a screen!
6. Surprise—You’re Exercising!
Gotcha, kiddo. Pelican made it so simple for our son to get active and have fun!
