New moms are often overwhelmed and may not be sure what friends and family can do to help once the baby arrives. Instead of greeting the new baby with yet another onesie or swaddling blanket, give a mom something she really needs. We have tons of suggestions for you! Read on to find gifts that help save a new mom’s sanity and will surprise her with your thoughtfulness.
Celebrate Her New Status
Becoming a new Mom is a huge shift in identity, so give her something that celebrates this new role.
A necklace with her baby's initial, like these affordable necklaces from Meghan Bo Designs (above), are a great choice. This is an especially thoughtful gift for a new mom nervous about returning to work, since she can have a small reminder of her baby with her all day long. If necklaces aren't her thing, try initial earrings or a bracelet instead!
A small but thoughtful gift is Supermom socks from Lavley. These are perfect for new moms spending time pattering around the house in their comfiest clothes and moms who need a reminder of how well they are doing.
Since new moms need to drink a lot of water, a custom Well Told water bottle displaying the night sky on the night her baby was born will help her take care of herself while giving her a special memento she can take with her anywhere.
To be a great mom, it's essential that she take some time for herself (however hard that may seem). For the mom who may only be able to take a few minutes a day, The Mindfulness Journal for Busy Moms by Anne Marie O'Connor is the perfect gift to help center her in less than 5 minutes a day.
New moms often wonder if there is a better way to do things, so help her discover something fabulous she may not have come across on her own. Whether it's something you tried and loved or an ingenious new creation, the new mom will appreciate your thoughtfulness.
Look for something that is as much for her as it is for the baby. A great choice is a nursing cardigan from Nesting Days. This lightweight cardigan looks like a typical sweater but has extra-long sides that not only drape to flatter any body type but also serve as a nursing cover or an easy way to provide an extra layer while holding a baby.
Or, give her an all-purpose bag that doesn't look like a baby bag so she can go seamlessly from the office to a playdate. The Everyday Tote from Peak Design is a unicorn bag that can pass as a stylish bag but has several sections to keep baby and mom gear organized, including a stretchy weather-resistant internal pocket. Plus, padded shoulder straps make this bag easier to carry than most traditional diaper bags.
Many new moms put a lot of thought into getting a big diaper bag, but after a few months they realize they need something smaller for quick trips or walks around the neighborhood. The answer is an original mini Hi, Aria diaper bag (above) that holds only the essentials and fits right in with the mini backpack trend.
Having a baby means fewer nights out and more nights at home. Upgrade her nights and make her yard a magnet for friends and family by chipping in to get her a Breeo smokeless fire pit (above), which can be customized to fit her her yard and decor. This makes an especially thoughtful gift for fall and winter babies to help the new parents get out of the house even if they are not venturing far.
Brunch can also be challenging with a baby. Make it easy for the new parents to enjoy a restaurant-quality brunch at home anytime with a Maple Craft Foods pancake and waffle meal kit, which comes with mixes, gourmet syrups and coffee. There is enough to feed the parents a least a couple of meals or to help entertain friends who come to see the new baby.
Pregnancy comes along with a long list of things to avoid, from wine to sushi to soft cheese. Some moms add things they loved before conceiving, like coffee and sweets, to the list.
Indulge a new mom in everything she has missed the past nine months. Get her a gift box from Don Pablo coffee for when she needs a caffeine boost after a sleepless night with a newborn. For the mom who loves coffee but is cautious about having hot beverages around a newborn, make her day by getting her an Espro Cold Brew so she can get her daily caffeine fix worry-free.
Or, maybe she would prefer a box of homemade caramels from Southern Caramel (above) that are perfect for indulging her sweet tooth while nursing or holding a newborn.
If cheese is more her speed, give her a gift box from Wisconsin Cheese. Each of these also ensures that the new parents will have snacks to share when guests come by to see the new baby even if they haven't had time to shop.
Sending the new mom a bottle of wine or a sushi platter will also be a good reminder of what she missed during the long months of pregnancy.
A new mom's body has been through a lot, and moms need a little TLC to feel like themselves again. Give her a gift certificate for a pedicure or massage. Better yet, plan a girls' afternoon and go with her! Or, give her everything she needs to pamper herself at home. A Nature by Canus Discovery Gift Set (above) contains luxuries a new nom will appreciate after a sleepless night or anytime she steals a few free moments for herself. This set contains a foaming milk bath, pure vegetal-base soap, lotion and body wash made with soothing goat milk.
Or, get her a giftset from Sallye Ander. Any new mom will appreciate the included Nourish Under Eye Treatment and face masks to help her cover up just how tired she actually is. Mom will also get a relaxing bar of lavender soap and a sea sponge loofah to help her make the most of the time she gets to linger in the shower.
Constantly changing diapers, feeding and cleaning means a lot of hand washing. Dionis product are all made with nourishing goat milk, which moisturizes deeply without harming baby's skin. Chose from hand lotion, body lotion, foot care or a gift box to help her recover and adjust to new motherhood with a little bit of luxury.
The irony of being ravenous after giving birth but not having any time to cook is not lost on new moms. Make the new family's life a little easier by delivering a meal. Even better, set up a meal train so friends and family can volunteer to drop off meals during the first weeks home with a newborn. Meals should not require preparation other than reheating but don't need to be elaborate. For this gift, it really is the thought that counts! Your meal doesn't need to be homemade, and delivery is fine!
Life can seem manageable with a newborn...then all of a sudden, it's not. Maybe it's a change in nap schedule, returning to work or a lack of sleep that becomes unbearable or a toddler's resentment at no longer being the center of attention. Make sure mom is prepared with a gift certificate for a complete house cleaning, a few hours of babysitting or a laundry service. When she cashes in her gift, she will be thinking about much she appreciates that you thought of something so useful.
Helping Hands
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Sometimes all a new mom wants is to drink a cup of coffee while it's still hot or take a shower that lasts more than two minutes. Help her out by offering to hold the baby while she leisurely enjoys a hot beverage, deep conditions her hair or takes a 20-minute power nap. This may be the gift she remembers the most!
Home is where the heart is… but after spending a bit too much time in our abodes this past year and a half, many families are itching for a change of scenery. And there’s no better way to take in the sights than an epic journey on the open road. This holiday season, take your crew on the ultimate family adventure in an RV. Thanks to RVshare, you can rent a ride that’s just right (think: Airbnb for RVs!). Here are five reasons to try it:
Outdoor Travel Is More Appealing than Ever
Pandemic life has inspired many families to create memories in the great outdoors. So it’s not surprising to see more RVs on the roads (or parked around the neighborhood!). From affordable pop-ups to luxury motorhomes, RVshare is the largest RV rental marketplace with 100,000 listings across the US. Whether you’re heading to a campground, national park, festival or getaway off the beaten path, there’s a rental to provide the comforts of home while you explore nature’s most beautiful sights. (Fun fact: RVshare renters traveled more than 40 million miles this summer!)
You Want to Take a Trip, but Aren’t Interested in Air Travel
No security lines, no flight delays, no problem. From visiting extended family for Christmas to going camping, families love the ease of getting to their destination on their terms in an RV. Depending on the vehicle size and type of amenities you’re seeking, the set-up can check all the right boxes when it comes to comfy travel. Many boast well-equipped kitchens, cozy spots to hang out and nap, space to play games and roomy seats to simply gaze out the window and daydream.
The Bucket List Winter Getaway Is Calling Your Name
During wintertime, many popular domestic destinations are less crowded than the summer months. Now is the perfect time to check off bucket list locations like the Grand Canyon, Zion and Yellowstone. Families also love the campsites at Disney Fort Wilderness for a unique stay. To make long trips even easier, renters can select an RV with the option to have it delivered to their home before traveling, or to have it delivered to their final destination.
You’ll Have Happy Campers
Want to go camping? No need to pop a tent and brave the cold (unless you want to!). According to a survey just released by Wakefield and RVshare, 62% of campers prefer RVing to tent camping. More than half of the campers said they felt better protected from natural elements like wild animals and weather in an RV. So pack your warm sweaters, hiking boots, supplies for s’mores… and set up your home away from home!
It’s a Great Way to Try Before You Buy
Whether you’ve always wanted your own RV or are newly obsessed with this mode of transport, renting from RVshare is a smart starting point. Simply book and pay through their secure platform. Rest assured that there’s 24/7 emergency roadside assistance on every booking and a worry-free rental guarantee that offers payment and fraud protection.
There’s something extra special about getting away from the daily grind and being with your favorite people as the world whizzes by on the road. Ready to round up the gang and take an RV for a spin?
Studies have revealed that a toddler can ask anywhere from one hundred to three hundred questions a day on average! That’s one of the reasons why outsourcing the inevitable, ever-present “what’s for dinner” dilemma is such a treat for busy, overstretched parents. We’ve found a bounty of quick prep and prepared meal delivery services in San Diego that bring meal kits right to your doorstep. Read on to feast your eyes on the best meal delivery services, and give yourself a well-deserved break.
Veestro
Ready for 100% plant-based, organic, non-GMO, chef-prepared entrees, soups, and juices that just show up at your front door whenever you want them to? Look no further than this healthy bunch (bonus: they deliver nationally, too).
There are no, zero, zilch animal products of any kind, here, ever! Chick'n Nuggets with chipotle dipping sauce complete with veganaise will do the trick every time for your kiddos and no one will miss the meat. Veestro food is available a la carte, in full-on Meal Packs, and they also carry a surprisingly delicious weight loss menu plan. As with most vegetarian cuisine: most meals have nuts in them so be careful with a nut allergy, but all meals are completely dairy-free and don't contain other allergens.
Cost: Starting at $9.90/serving, free shipping on auto-delivery options
Go local by choosing Territory for your meal delivery service. Choose from a variety of 35 meals, so you and your family never get bored with the option of adding, skipping, and pausing meals at any time. This community-based service has a roster of local, independent San Diego chefs who work with a registered dietician to craft wholesome and nutrient-dense meals—bonus; every dish is made with no gluten, dairy, or refined sugar.
The goal of HelloFresh is to bring the fun of cooking back into people’s lives by doing all the planning, portioning and shopping for in-season, sustainably-sourced, healthy and flavorful ingredients. HelloFresh prides itself on its delicious recipes with quick cook times; all your chopping, zesting and sautéing will take less than 30 minutes. Family-friendly meals include Tomato Tortellini Bake, Ginger Plum Chicken and Pork Chops with Apple Rosemary Pan Sauce.
Cost: Meals $8.99/serving. Delivery is free for all orders.
Purple Carrot brings you plant-forward meals that are good for you and good for the planet. Choose from Quick & Easy, High-Protein, Gluten-Free or Chef’s Choice dinners and customize your choices to your liking. All meals are meat-free and easy to prepare. You can add on breakfast, lunch and snack items to get you through the week. Skip or cancel any time.
If your goal is to get a wholesome, easy meal on the table for your family, then Dinnerly is the meal delivery option for you. Each week Dinnerly customers choose from over a dozen options which change each week. The choices are totally kid-friendly with options like sweet and sour Swedish meatballs, turkey burgers and enchiladas. Each meal has only five prep steps and takes less than 30 minutes to get on the table, perfect for rushed weeknight dinners. Not interested in getting your box this week? No problem! You can skip any time.
Healthy eating at home is the name of the game with Green Chef. Choose from three plans: Keto + Paleo, Balanced Living and Plant-Powered. Set up your deliveries to come weekly or less frequently if you prefer. Menus change every week and you'll enjoy options like Steak & Cheddar Melts, Salmon with Creamy Chimichurri, and Creamy Baked Penne Pasta.
Home Chef meal kits offer fresh, pre-portioned ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes delivered weekly. With a variety 19 different recipes that rotate on a weekly basis, most recipes include a "Customize It" option to accommodate any dietary needs or preferences. Skip a week any time you'd like, the meals are convenient and kid-friendly. The 15-minute meal kits include options like Honey Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Carrots. Or, opt for more sophisticated meals from the culinary collection like Steak and Garlic Thyme Butter with balsamic Brussels Sprouts and Parmesan Twists.
Freshly is a weekly subscription service delivering fresh (not frozen), chef-cooked meals that can be heated and served in three minutes. Unlike meal kits, all you need is a microwave, fork and plate (optional!) to get a satisfying lunch or dinner on the table. Think “nutritionist meets personal chef” vs. TV dinner when it comes to quality and flavor.
With a food philosophy centered on less sugar, less processed and more nutrients, the menu features better-for-you versions of comfort foods with smart ingredient swaps. For example, Chicken Parm is coated in almond flour vs. bread crumbs and topped with marinara sauce sweetened with honey instead of refined sugars; Mac and Cheese is made with brown rice pasta and cheesy sauce blended with a purée of cauliflower and butternut squash; and Turkey Meatballs are packed with mushrooms and served over zoodles for a lower-carb alternative to pasta.
Cost: Customers can order 4 meals ($11.50/each), 6 meals ($8.99/each), 9 meals ($8.99/each) or 12 meals ($7.99/each) weekly.
Blue Apron has been part of the meal delivery game for a long time and their expertise shows. Choose among two-serving, four-serving, wellness and vegetarian menus to pick the options that are right for you. We love that the meals typically take 40 minutes or less and include kid-friendly ingredients like baked chicken and pasta while exposing kids to different flavors like curry and chile-lime. With super easy-to-follow recipes, you can definitely get the kids involved in the cooking process.
Cost: Meals cost $8.99-9.99/serving with free shipping
Say goodbye to grocery shopping, meal planning and prep, and all that cleanup! Gobble shops, chops and delivers gourmet three-step recipes for one-pan cooking with zero prep required. How about picky eaters? Try Pan-Seared Sirloin Steak with Roasted Fingerling Potatoes & Béarnaise Sauce or Crispy Chicken Sandwich & Napa Cabbage Slaw with Caraway Vinaigrette. What have you got to lose when it's just a one-pan cleanup?
This cook-at-home food delivery service partnered with Martha Stewart to help harried families discover their inner Martha. The menu features 22 choices every week and the website tags meals as family-friendly, under-30 minutes, gluten-free and other categories. Favorites include: chicken fajita bowl, bacon-wrapped skillet meatloaf and lemon-brown butter salmon. The website provides big, colorful step-by-step photos for careless cooks and kids who want to help.
Cost: Plans start at $7.99/portion + $8.99 shipping
This meal-delivery service is focused on kids. Carefully sourced fruits and veggies, and perfectly balanced—lunches, dinners and snacks from Yumble are nutritionist-approved and kid-approved, too! Choose your kids' meals for the week and they'll be delivered free to your doorstep. The Bowl of Yays Pasta with veggie marinara and the Mighty Meatballs and Veggie Chili are crowd pleasers for sure. Each box comes with new activities for kids, making mealtime a breeze for you and a joy for them.
Hungryroot is an online grocery service that delivers modern, healthy food with recipe and meal planning support. Hungryroot’s mission is to help people feel their best by making it easier to shop for, cook, and love healthy food. Customers share their food needs and receive personalized weekly deliveries of healthy groceries along with 10-minute recipes to make fresh, delicious meals. All of Hungryroot’s deliveries are nutrient-dense and tailored to a variety of diets and food needs including vegan, vegetarian, soy-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, pescatarian, tree-nut free, peanut-free, and egg-free.
Cost: Pricing plans average from $60 to $100 per week and orders over $70 receive free shipping.
Parents, take one thing off your plate by having Nurture Life put meals on your family table? Nurture Life makes the process super simple by delivering meals with ingredients that are focused on organic veggies, lean antibiotic-free proteins and whole grains. Additionally, their meals are developed by a team of registered dietitians and chefs and all are peanut and tree nut (except coconut) free—and their facilities don’t contain any peanuts or tree nuts. Bonus: Nurture Life meals are ready to enjoy in two minutes or less!
After signing up, you can choose the meals that best fit your kiddos' palate (or what you'd like them to try) based on their age group, and you can select the number of meals you'd like in your box. It's easy to skip weeks or add additional meals, and you can be worry-free with these veggie-forward, nutritious dishes. Food preferences include veggie, meat and fish, and meal plan age groups are: Baby (10-24 months), Toddler (1- 4 years), Kids (5-10 years) and Kids (11+ years). Family meals like mushroom and truffle ravioli are also a great option.
Cost: Plans start at $39 and you can skip weeks, pause or cancel services at any time.
Factor is a weekly subscription service with flexible management options. You can select from plan sizes of 4, 6, 8, 12 or 18 meals per week with the option to change your plan size at any time. You can also skip any weeks when they don’t need a delivery or turn the subscription off and back on at any time. Factor believes clean eating shouldn’t have to be so hard––and that healthy food should be readily available to everyone. They deliver chef-crafted and dietitian-designed meals nationwide; meals arrive fresh (never frozen) and are fully prepared. Simply heat in the microwave or oven and enjoy.
Their menu features a variety of different meal options for those that follow specific diet patterns such as keto, Paleo, low-carb, low-calorie, high-protein and dairy-free. Their dietitians and chefs create these meals to ensure that they reflect the standards of each diet. For example, keto meals are made with 70% fat or above, Paleo meals are dairy-free, and high-protein meals are made with 35 grams of protein or more.
Factor is also very strict about what they put in their meals, and their chefs use only the highest quality, freshest ingredients available. Every meal is free of gluten, soy, hormones, antibiotics, GMOs and preservatives.
Additionally, their dietitians are on-hand to provide an extra level of support. They offer free 20-minute consultations for all new or prospective customers.
Fresh and easy! Michaela’s meals are organic, gluten-free, and contain no GMOs. She’s known for answering the phone to take your order herself, and she shops at the local farmer’s market to source her ingredients. Michaela will customize meals to fit your needs––even catering to Keto and Paleo diets. You can order breakfast too! Half-pints will love the high protein cinnamon roll pancakes.
Delivery: San Diego Area Cost: From $65 for 5 meals/week
Locally made and organic! We love that you can order from breakfast and lunch to dinner and snacks with Foods Made Fresh. Even more, the menu changes weekly, so the family gets a variety of meals. Dig into the blueberry French toast to start the day and delight in the roasted chicken with green tahini sauce, and quinoa salad delivered fresh to your door for dinner.
Delivery: Most of San Diego (see map on website). Cost: Minimum order $35, plus $9 delivery fee.
If you are looking to up your family's health quotient this year then Thistle is the meal delivery service for you. They offer fully-prepared breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as juices, snacks, wellness shots and more. Choose what option works best for you with the price per item decreasing the more items you select. Every week there's a new menu and everything that is available is gluten and dairy-free. You can choose from vegan and non-vegan options.
While the majority of the Thistle menu appeals to greens-loving adults, our kid tasters loved the 24 Carrot Gold muffin and the nourishing green juice. Bonus for busy parents: the most you'll need is a few minutes to warm up the meals (if you desire) or eat them room tempinstead.
Cost: Fully-customizable packages start at $29.98/week.
Farm fresh goodness! We love that these meals are local, organic, farm-to-table meals that offer options like going grain-free. One of our faves is the orange basil Salmon with organic quinoa pilaf and organic heirloom ginger carrots. Even more, if you want to take a week off or not commit to a subscription, then this delivery service is for you. Further, you’ll enjoy large portions and get to choose from Keto or Paleo options too.
Delivery: North County San Diego Cost: Minimum $45 order per delivery. Plus $7 delivery fee.
Calling all vegans! This meal delivery service offers a selection of delicious meals that contain no animal products, and they arrive in plant-based containers too. The vegan meal plan offers dishes like kung pao “beef” (made with vegan beef substitute), steamed broccoli, snap peas and brown rice. Moreover, you can order a family subscription (it’s non-vegan) with dishes like maple BBQ chicken with potatoes if you want too. There are many choices to fit your family’s tastes.
Delivery: San Diego Area Cost: Vegan from $53.55 for 5 meals/week; Family Plan from $54.99 for 5 meals/week
We love this local husband and wife owned meal delivery service with a focus on lean, healthy food. Firstly, if you call, there’s a good chance you will talk to Anthony, the friendly customer-oriented owner. From chicken breast bites with asparagus and brown rice to vegetarian chili, you’ll find plenty of options to fill your family’s dinner table. So what are you waiting for? Try them out today.
Delivery: San Diego Area Cost: From $52.50 for 5 meals/week
Ingredients at your door! You’ll find organic, non-GMO ingredients that are pre-chopped and pre-measured ready to go. Make your nightly meals easy on you with these 30-minute meals from box to table. The meals are perfect for families and offer from two to six servings based on your choice. Even more, there is a pint-sized (kid’s) meal option. From the ground beef tacos to the many vegan and gluten-free options, we give this meal prep service a thumbs up!
Delivery: California (San Diego included) Cost: From $59.79 for 2 meals/week; Plus $7.99 delivery fee.
All the hues of the rainbow! We love that this San Diego delivery service lives up to its name. So, expect plenty of healthy (and colorful!) food on a plate, from spicy shrimp and veggie pad Thai to rainbow veggie tacos. What’s more, you’ll find smoothies and sweet treats like vegan peanut butter cups.
Delivery: San Diego Area Cost: From $33 for 3 meals/week
If your family wants clean protein, organic produce and delicious gluten-free meals, SoCalFRESH has got you covered. Grass-fed beef, pasture-raised chicken and wild-caught salmon mix with heart-healthy oil and Himalayan pink salt. What you won't see is any white sugar, dairy or wheat flour. With tasty dishes like Moroccan chicken or Beef Bolognese, we're pretty sure your family will want seconds.
Delivery: San Diego, Orange County and Riverside Cost: From $67 for 5 meals/week
If you were raised like I was, you are probably very familiar with the word grace. Grace was the prayer we said before meals. Grace is a term I still use to describe someone’s elegant appearance, and grace was a term my mom used when someone we loved blessed us with their presence. However, as I grew older, I realized grace is so much more than a church word. Perhaps the most significant thing I learned about grace is that it doesn’t matter what age you are if you’re religious, what your sexual preference is, or where you stand politically. Like love, it is something we are all worthy of, we all need, and we should all give more of.
Grace is a gift. Grace is favor. Grace is letting go. Grace is understanding. Grace is forgiving. Grace is extending your hand. Grace is non-judgmental. Grace is selfless. Grace changes relationships. Grace chooses compassion. Grace ignites purpose and changes stories. At its core, grace is unconditional love in action. In fact, threads of grace are woven throughout the world’s tapestry and can be found everywhere, from historic stories to present-day Hollywood movies.
One of my favorite movies growing up was The Lion King. The story of grace is woven in this Disney classic and simple enough for children to understand. In the movie Simba, the cub leaves home to run away from his overwhelming problems and mistakes. After years of forgetting his past and living a new worry-free life, he eventually realizes he needs to go back home to help save the pride land. He expects to be shamed and unwanted, but instead, he is greeted by his family and friends, happy to have him home. Together, they save the pride land. He received grace and was welcomed back with open arms. If his family and friends had rejected him or punished him for his past mistakes, the pride land would have been lost, and his relationships would have been severed. Grace changed everything.
As a parent, I need grace every day. I mess up a lot. I yell, I lose my patience, I spend too much time on my phone, I can be selfish, I burn food, I’m constantly late, the list goes on and on. But regardless of my mistakes, there is no better feeling than while tucking my children in at night, they wrap their arms around me and meet me with unconditional grace and love. They don’t hold grudges or shame me. They extend their arms regardless of mess-ups.
Shouldn’t we offer the same to our children?
The answer is yes. Giving our children grace is one of the most important gifts we can give them.
Giving children grace not only means you consider their hearts and acknowledge their individuality, but it also teaches children they matter. It doesn’t ignore or excuse bad behavior. Instead, it offers loving guidance through a healthy relationship.
Grace chooses compassion, and according to an article found on the Children’s Mental Health Network, compassion is important for various reasons, including physical, mental, and emotional health.
Author Laurie Ellington, the co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Zero Point Leadership, explains its powerful effects. She says, “Compassion activates the parasympathetic nervous system as opposed to the fear response. It lowers the heart rate, blood pressure, and inflammation levels in the body, boosting the immune system. It has even been shown to increase the length of telomeres, the caps at the end of our chromosomes associated with health and longevity. Compassion triggers the mammalian caregiving system and causes a release of the hormone oxytocin, increasing feelings of trust and cooperation. We see that this need to emotionally regulate is not just within ourselves, but between each other as well.”
With this in mind, picture this scenario. You still love your child even if they are throwing a temper tantrum. Sitting with them, trying to understand why they’re upset, and helping them calm down so you can address the issue, is extending grace. Becoming angry and punishing them for it is not. Your love for your child doesn’t change regardless of how you choose to deal with their temper tantrum but extending grace will improve your relationship and bond.
A personal example of extending grace was when my daughters were roughhousing and broke a souvenir we acquired on a trip to Amman, Jordan. My husband and I were devastated. To be honest, my first reaction was to put all of them in timeout and ground them for at least two weeks. However, instead of punishing our daughters, we offered them comfort and explained why we were upset. We all picked up the pieces and glued the souvenir back together. It will never be the same, but our relationship was stronger because we all calmly communicated instead of acting out in anger. To this day, it is our grace souvenir. Once again, grace changed the outcome.
Author of Grace-Based Parenting, Dr. Tim Kimmel, says, “if we have done our jobs adequately, our children should leave our homes with a love that is secure, a purpose that is significant, and a hope that is strong.”
Giving children grace does just that. A healthy parent-child relationship gives children the emotional and mental strength they need to grow. It also teaches them how to give grace and that they, and others, are more than their mistakes.
So, as you go about your day, think about what grace is. If grace is just something you say before a meal, I encourage you to dig deeper. My hope is that you see grace is just as important as love. It is a way of life, and just like love, it should be woven in and out of our stories because grace changes everything.
Jamie is married to her high school sweetheart and has three beautiful daughters. Through years of experience working with children, and raising her own, she knows how difficult parenting can be. She is an advocate for children's mental health and is best known for her creativity, optimism, and kind heart.
Today is the last day to find great deals on Amazon Fire Kids Pro tablets, Amazon Fire Kids tablets and more for Amazon Prime Day!
Have a kid? They’re probably into screens. Of course, we are too, because technology expands our world, connects us and is fun! If you love the latest and greatest like us, you already know the tech gurus at Amazon make impossibly good tablets for younger kids, ages 3-7, with their line of Fire Kids tablets. Good news: Now we don’t have to be bummed once they age out of this innovative device—Amazon is rolling out all-new tablets that are tailored to older kids, ages 6-12! Amazon has our backs, too, because if you have a Fire Kids tablet, you can upgrade to Fire Kids Pro through the Amazon Trade-In program with a 20 percent discount. Read on to learn more about what makes the new Fire Kids Pro tablet line jaw-droppingly cool.
The all-new Fire Kids Pro tablets for kids ages 6 to 12, come with a 7-inch, 8-inch HD or 10-inch HD screen.You can expect these new tablets to look less like a toy compared to the original line for younger kids. The protective case is slimmer (dare we say, cooler?) and includes a kickstand to prop up the tablet and a home screen that looks more like the one you’d use. Aside from the grown-up look and feel, the available content is geared towards the older set, too, with a wider selection just for them (including music!).
Smart(er) Web Browser
More independence for them with less worry for you: The Fire Kids Pro web browser includes a setting that gives kids open but filtered access to the web. Now they can explore on their own with guardrails, research for a school project, or just chill out with a favorite movie. Bottom line: This tablet is now multi-functional and super practical!
Profiles with Fire Kids Pro offer three levels of restrictions: limited, moderate and full. By default, the tablets use moderate restrictions, with tighter filters on web browsing and no access to in-app purchases or expanded content. Built-in controls are designed to help filter out inappropriate sites and you can block specific sites as you see fit. And there is another ally on your side—the Parent Dashboard! Here you can set time limits, see what sites they're visiting and for how long, establish learning goals, set a bedtime, block or allow specific sites and more—so you (are still) the boss.
Expanded Amazon Kids+ Content
Fire Kids Pro comes with a one-year subscription to Amazon Kids+, which includes a huge selection of premium entertainment and educational content that older kids are drawn to. Kids can choose from thousands of apps, songs, Audible books, games including Teen Titans Go and Asphalt 8, books like Keeper of the Lost Cities andChronicles of Narnia, PG and PG-13 videos hand-selected by the Amazon Kids team, plus educational content from National Geographic, Rabbids Coding, LEGO® and more.
In addition to Kids+ content, Fire Kids Pro tablets include access to a digital store so kids can request apps like Disney+, Spotify, Minecraft, Zoom and more. Once their request is sent, parents have the final say, approving purchases and downloads.
Fire Kids Pro also includes a music row with stations like iHeartRadio Family. Kids can choose from an array of curated playlists like Acoustic for Kids and Homework Inspiration, as well as live radio stations—rock on!
Hot feature alert: Kids can stay in touch and on top of school projects with the Fire Kids Pro, by making and receiving voice and video calls over Wi-Fi! This feature is available for kids to call contacts with a Fire Kids tablet, Alexa-enabled device, or the Alexa app. Parents have to approve the contacts and have visibility into calling history. Now kids can easily chat with friends to collaborate on homework or stay in touch with family. Kids can make announcements like “I’m done with my homework” from the tablet to Alexa-enabled devices at home—pretty cool, Amazon!
You Are in Control
Yes, this is a “more mature” tablet, but it comes with parental controls so you can customize your kid's experience, no matter where you are! With Amazon's Parent Dashboard you can control options from anywhere and make changes to access, view their activities, set time limits and more, all through your desktop or mobile phone without touching the tablet.
The Fire Kids Pro tablet is smart tech that grows with them, by adjusting the parental control preference as your kids age up. Why does that matter? It makes this device super flexible, fitting all types of parenting styles and kids' ages! You can also approve or deny purchases from the digital store. Kids can request apps from the digital store, then parents review requests and grant approval to app download or purchase, so no surprise charges—now you can let your kids explore without stressing about what they're doing and where they're going because you are in control of it all (but that can be our secret... ).
Fire Kids Pro comes with one year of Amazon Kids+ with access to over 20,000 books, movies, TV shows and other kid-friendly content curated by Amazon—wow. That is a massive amount of content, and we are impressed!
Worried about drops and bumps? Don’t be. Fire Kids Pro comes with a slim but sturdy case in cool colors and fun prints to keep it protected. Even the case is genius. It features a built-in kickstand which is ideal for hands-free video-watching, game-playing, video chatting and more. The best part? All Fire Kids Pro tablets include a two-year worry-free guarantee; if it breaks, return it and Amazon will replace it free—you just can’t go wrong here.
Today is the last day to find great deals on Amazon Fire Kids Pro tablets, Amazon Fire Kids tablets and more for Amazon Prime Day!
The portability and convenience a tablet brings are ideal for kids of all ages. They’re an excellent brain-boosting tool that expands their world and keeps kids connected for school projects and collaborations. The tech gurus at Amazon already make impossibly good tablets for younger kids, ages 3-7, with their line of Fire Kids tablets. News flash: So you can retain your “cool parent” status, you need to know that Amazon is not only rolling out a new generation of their 10-inch Fire Kids Tablet, ages 3-7, but they’re also dropping all-new tablets that are tailored to older kids, ages 6-12!
Not sure if it’s time to upgrade to the bigger-kid tablet? We have you covered, walking you through what’s different about the Amazon Fire Kids Pro versus the Amazon Fire Kids tablet. And don’t worry, no FOMO here—Amazon has our backs because if you have a Fire Kids tablet, you can upgrade through the Amazon Trade-In program with a 20 percent discount. Read on to learn more to help decide which tablet is suitable for your little techie!
Fire Kids Pro Has a More Mature Look, Both Have the Same Power
The all-new Fire Kids Pro tablets for kids ages 6-12 come with a 7-inch, 8-inch HD or 10-inch HD screen. You can expect these new tablets to look less bulky than the original line for younger kids. The protective case included is slimmer (dare we say, cooler?), and the home screen looks more like the one you'd use.
The new generation of Fire HD 10 Kids tablet (ages 3-7) is available with a 10-inch HD. It boasts up to 12 hours of battery life and USB-C for charging so easy charging for little hands. Bonus: It includes a kid-proof protective case in three cheerful colors to choose from. Like its big brother, this case also has a handy-dandy kickstand to prop up the tablet—ideal for traveling, schoolwork, or just chillaxing!
Same Smart(er) Web Browser, More Open Experience for Older Kids
More independence for them with less worry for you: The Fire Kids Pro and Fire Kids web browser includes different settings that give you flexibility for your kids if you choose open but filtered access to the web or access to only hand-selected websites and videos. Now they can explore on their own with guardrails and older kids can research for a school project or just chill out with a favorite movie.
Profiles with Fire Kids Pro and Fire Kids tablet offer customizable controls, with the Fire Kids Pro provides three levels of restrictions: limited, moderate and full access at device set-up. Parents can set and adjust the level of access with different features, such as web browser and digital store access, at any time on the Parent Dashboard. For the Web Browser, built-in controls help filter out inappropriate sites, and you can block specific sites as you see fit.
Both tablets offer access to the (brilliant) Parent Dashboard! Here you can set time limits, see what sites they're visiting and for how long, establish learning goals, set a bedtime, block or allow specific sites and more—all remotely so you (are still) the boss.
Both Get a One-Year Subscription to Amazon Kids+, With Expanded Content for Older Kids
Both the Fire Kids Pro and Fire Kids come with one year of Amazon Kids+ with access to over 20,000 books, movies, TV shows and other kid-friendly content curated by Amazon—wow. That is a massive amount of content, and we are impressed!
The Amazon Kids+ subscription provides access to even more content to fit any picky older kids' tastes. Older kids can choose from thousands of apps, songs, Audible books, games, including Teen Titans Go and Asphalt 8, books like Keeper of the Lost Cities and Chronicles of Narnia, PG and PG-13 videos hand-selected by the Amazon Kids team, plus educational content from National Geographic, Rabbids Coding, LEGO® and more.
Fire Kids Pro Features a Digital Store
In addition to expanded Amazon Kids+ content, Fire Kids Pro tablets include access to a digital store so kids can request apps like Disney+, Spotify, Minecraft, Zoom and more. Once their request is sent, parents have the final say, approving purchases and downloads.
Fire Kids Pro Has Video & Voice Calling(!)
With Fire Kids Pro, kids can stay in touch by making and receiving voice and video calls over Wi-Fi! This feature allows kids to call from the tablet to approved contacts with an Alexa-enabled device or the Alexa app. Parents have to approve the contacts and have visibility into calling history. Now kids can easily chat with friends to collaborate on homework or stay in touch with family, all while parents have peace of mind on who they can chat with. Kids can make announcements like "I'm done with my homework" from the tablet to Alexa-enabled devices at home—pretty cool, Amazon!
Both Give You Control, With More Flexibility Within Levels of Control With Fire Kids Pro
Both versions include parental controls so you can customize your kid's experience, no matter where you are! With Amazon's Parent Dashboard, you can control options from anywhere and make changes to access, view their activities, set time limits and more, all through your desktop or mobile phone without touching the tablet. With the "Learn First" feature, grown-ups can block access to games and cartoons until after educational goals are met. With both the Fire Kids Pro and Fire Kids tablet, you can let your kids explore without stressing about what they're doing and where they're going because you are in control of it all (but that can be our secret... ).
With Fire Kids Pro, parents can be flexible with parental controls, adjusting their preference on different features as kids age up. It makes this device super flexible, fitting all types of parenting styles and meeting kids changing needs through a wide range of stages between the ages of 6-12.
Both Offer a Worry-Free Guarantee!
Worried about drops and bumps with kids? Don't be. Fire Kids Pro and Fire Kids tablets come with a sturdy case in cool colors and fun prints to keep it protected. The difference is that the Fire Kids Pro looks more "adult" with a slimmer, more streamlined case. For both editions, the case is genius. They each feature a built-in kickstand which is ideal for hands-free video-watching, game-playing, and more. The best part? All Fire Kids Pro and Fire Kids tablets include a two-year worry-free guarantee; if it breaks, return it, and Amazon will replace it free—you just can't go wrong here.
Infant seats are widely available, so are booster seats as they age up—but what about the “in-between”? Looking for a recommendation for that elusive next step from the infant car seat? We have it! If you’re a parent, you know how popular the UPPAbaby line of super-smart strollers, car seats and kids gear is. And for good reason. Since 2006, their products have never disappointed, with intuitively designed, stylish and sleek products with features and functions all parents want—plus innovations you maybe never knew were possible. The UPPAbaby’s KNOX® Convertible Car Seat is the natural next step for parents as their child transitions from an infant seat.
The KNOXConvertible Car Seat provides a rear-facing and forwarding-facing solution that accommodates a growing baby and toddler. The KNOX is all you need from baby to big kid, and it’s packed with intuitive safety features that easily adapt as your child grows and their positioning needs change. Now you can travel safely and smoothly since KNOX is fully loaded with unique safety innovations and features that make traveling with your toddler worry-free. Read on to learn more about how KNOX’s innovative safety features make this the ideal seat for your growing baby.
The KNOX's Multi-Directional Tether reduces seat rotation and stress on a child’s head and neck in the event of an impact. When used in rear-facing mode, the Multi-Directional Tether reduces the potential for injury by 45%* (*Data based on crash tests conducted at independent labs in the United States and Canada.)
SMARTSecure™ System
Parents, this is genius. It’s safety you can see, and it’s going to make your life so much easier, with a lot less worry while you're on the road. This unique technology utilizes a tightness indicator and robust tensioning clips to provide a visual confirmation of correct installation each time. Now you know every time that, yes, it’s in right and your child is as safe as can be.
Koroyd® Technology
Developed from aerospace safety research, innovated for action sports, and now built into the base of the KNOX car seat—just, wow. This exclusive partnership is a child safety industry first! The result is that the Koroyd technology provides more advanced impact protection. The welded tube structure crumples instantly and consistently on impact, absorbing maximum force in a controlled manner to minimize energy transfer to the child. Bottom line: You can’t get more high-tech than this.
UPPAbaby’s KNOX boasts a whole family of features, designed to protect and provide unparalleled side impact protection including:
Active Support Headrest is heads above the rest. Utilizing the absorption and recovery properties of specialized foams, KNOX's headrest provides advanced side impact protection around the child’s head and neck and adjusts to ensure correct positioning as your child grows.
Side Impact Pods are a small feature that makes a big difference. Located on the side of the shell and always engaged, the pods absorb and deflect crash forces in the event of a side-impact crash.
Impact Dispersion Zone EPP foam strategically placed between the inner and outer shell absorbs crash forces, further protecting the child.
They seriously have every little detail down. Here's even more tech to keep your little one safe in case of impact:
Recline Indicator: The labeling system provides clear instructions on what positions are acceptable for Rear-Facing and Forward-Facing modes.
Two-Piece Fit Inlay: The inlay allows for flexibility and proper fit in the harness system, promoting optimum recline.
Heading out on an auto adventure? Before you’re totally locked and loaded and heading down the highway, make sure you’re stocked up on road trip essentials. The best part? You can get them all on Amazon.
6-Port Universal Car Charger
Most vehicles only come with one or two charging ports, and that's why you won't want to head out on vaycay without a 6-Port Universal Car Charger ($21.99). Made to fit in your cupholder, this lightening charger comes with a safety chip to prevent overheating and will charge all your phones, tablets and game consoles!
High Road Car Organizer with Cooler and Snack Tray
Road trippers and busy moms will more than survive the summer with the High Road Car Organizer with Cooler and Snack Tray ($49.99). It's made with pockets on both sides, a drink holder that converts to a storage bin, a lined and insulated interior and a seatbelt strap. The booster-high height means its perfect for your little travelers and helps with independence, too.
42 Piece Premium Road Kit
For only $25, you can have peace of mind with a 42 Piece Emergency Car Kit that comes with a flashlight, jumper cables and everything you need to stay safe on the road. Coming in a high-quality bag, the kit weighs less than three pounds and won't take up much room amidst your luggage.
Fire HD 10 Kids Edition
Break up a long car ride or give mom and dad a nice quiet time when the kids have fun on the Fire HD 10 Kids Edition Tablet ($139.99). Coming with one year of Amazon Kids+, a free case and a two-year worry-free guarantee, this educational tablet is essential on your next road trip.
Plus-Plus Travel Case
If you have kids who are obsessed with Plus-Plus like we are, you are going to want to order this Plus-Plus Travel Case before your next road trip. The case includes a small base plate and Plus-Plus pieces for your child to build with. Easy to use on a lap in the car, the case zips up for easy storage when you are done. Best for ages 5 and up.
Sea-Band Wristband
Can we all agree that motion sickness is the worst? Whether you have a normally queasy traveler or plan on taking some windy roads on your upcoming trip, it's a good idea to keep a few Sea-Band wristbands ($12) on hand. They work by applying pressure to acupressure points on each wrist which has been proven to relieve nausea and vomiting. They are reusable, washable and a natural way to combat car sickness!
Igloo Playmate Cooler
Amazon
Whether you snag second-hand versions of these at garage sales, or pick up one of these limited edition Mickey versions, it's fun to give each kid their own Igloo cooler for your road trip. Pack it with an ice pack, snacks and drinks and your little one has control over when they can enjoy their snacks.
Microfiber Towels
Road trips are messy business. Between cleaning up spills, mopping up after a sudden rainfall or taming other fluids (hello, car sickness), it's always a smart idea to have towels on hand. Microfiber towels like these from Amazon Basics ($12) come in a large 24-pack and absorb up to eight times their own weight.
BCOZZY Kids Chin Supporting Travel Pillow
Machine washable and coming with a built-in snap for easy transport, the BCOZZY Kids Chin Supporting Travel Pillow ($30) will give your kiddos rest on the go! Choose from seven colors and let the kids enjoy the support they need to get all the cat naps they want.
Rand McNally 2021 Large Scale Road Atlas
We're the first to admit that technology is great, but traveling in the wilderness doesn't always mean a great cell signal. Don't leave the house without keeping a Rand McNally 2021 Large Scale Road Atlas ($18) in the glove box or at your fingertips. It'll get you where you need to go, without arguing about whether you should stop for directions.
MyTidyCar Car Trash Can
Water bottles, fast food trash, snack wrappers––oh my! Controlling the mess is a must on the road, and the MyTidyCar Car Trash Can ($14) is here to save the day. The waterproof lining can hold up to three gallons and can be used as an organizer when the trip's over and the trash is at bay.
––Karly Wood
All photos: Courtesy of Amazon/Feature Photo: Dominika Roseclay via Pexels
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Amazon is offering a deal that parents and kids will love: Big savings on Amazon Kids Edition tablets. These just-for-kids tablets are packed with features that your little one will be smitten with, and have a price tag that you’ll adore!
Thanks to the help of Amazon Kids+, the Amazon Kids Edition tablets give kids access to over 20,000 age-appropriate apps, games, books, videos and more. With the help age filters that you set, your kids can find content from names they recognize (like PBS Kids, Disney and Nickelodeon) and discover new games and characters—including Amazon original content like Ryan’s World and Super Spy Ryan! There’s even thousand of books, games, apps and videos in Spanish.
Ready to Learn—Anytime, Anywhere
It's not all fun and games: Amazon Kids Edition tablets can also help families as they navigate virtual learning with the help of educational apps and games, plus thousands of books on Amazon Kids+. If your kiddo has virtual classes, you even have the option to give them access to the Zoom app!
There's no one-size-fits-all solution to screentime, which is why Kids Edition tablets come fully equipped with customizable parental controls, which allow you to create a tablet that fits your family's needs. You can set a limit on screentime for each day, a scheduled shutdown time to make bedtime way easier or educational goals that block access to entertainment content until the goal is met! The parental controls also let you set age-filters for the content your kids see, which you can update as they grow.
Totally Kid-Proof Plus All-Around Protection
Drops have nothing on the tough case that comes on the Kids Edition tablets! The kid-proof case can withstand just about anything, but in case something does happen, each tablet has a two-year worry-free guarantee––if it breaks, just return it and Amazon will replace for free!
From new shows to their latest game obsession, kids’ interests change constantly. One kid-friendly item that’ll stand the test of time: The Amazon Kids Edition tablet. These all-in-one tablets have access to thousands of age-appropriate games, apps, shows, books and more through an Amazon Kids+ subscription—meaning your kiddo can find the content they love and discover all kinds of new interests! While they explore and gain independence with their tablet, Amazon Kids Edition tablets let you guide their adventures along through robust parental controls, including screentime limits, educational goals and automatic shut-off times.
Like all parents, mom-of-two Patricia Chang has been stressed about screentime over the past few months. With the Amazon Kids Edition tablets, Patricia is able to use the Amazon Kids+ subscription to give her kids access to quality content. The tablet’s customizable parental controls also let her set educational goals (so they’re spending some of their screentime learning!) and set a time limit for the day—so Patricia can keep their screentime in check!
South Carolina-based mom Amber Faust is in the middle of a move with her family. While moving, Amber uses her Amazon Kids Edition tablets to provide her five and six year olds with age-appropriate entertainment when she needs to unpack or get things done around the house. With parental controls, she can feel good about the content her kids are discovering. Plus, the kid-proof case and two-year worry-free guarantee, she doesn’t have to stress about the tablet getting broken during playtime!