Ahhh. The sweet sound of satisfying silence when the pacifier does its job soothing a fussy baby. But there’s a moment in many parents’ lives when they go from praising the pacifier for the peace and comfort it brings their child (and everyone else in the house) to nonstop worrying over their aging toddler’s attachment to the nuk. So we chatted with a pediatrician, a psychologist, and a child behavior specialist for their insights and tips on the right time and age to call it quits with the paci, and exactly how to do it. For all the parents out there who have ever wondered when to take the pacifier away, these pacifier-weaning tricks are for you.
But First: Why We Love Pacifiers
“Babies are born with an inherent need to suck—the sucking reflex,” says Lauren Crosby, MD, FAAP, of La Peer Pediatrics. Pacifiers do a great job of satisfying that need (and can even give a breastfeeding mom’s nipples a break) while also soothing a baby, especially during times when they’re upset or falling asleep. It has also been shown that using a pacifier can reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), Crosby adds. Not all babies take to pacis, but those who do can really benefit from their simple magic.
Pacifier Weaning Tips
1. Time It Well
Saying goodbye to the binky can be done at almost any time, depending on what works for the baby and the parents or caregivers. But there are some key guidelines that experts recommend. According to Sari Broda, a certified child sleep consultant and certified lactation counselor, a baby’s strong desire to suck drops between 4 and 6 months. At that point, the pacifier becomes more of a soothing object and sleep cue than an actual need, so this is one window of opportunity where you may want to stop offering it. If you don’t ditch the paci in the first year though, Broda recommends waiting until the child is 3 years old; otherwise, taking it away can really disrupt your tot’s sleep. That being said, she has seen some families successfully drop the paci between 1 and 3 years without any major issues.
Crosby notes that using the paci past age 1 can delay speech and inhibit proper word articulation, and past age 3 may result in tooth alignment issues. If your child is getting frequent ear infections (studies have shown a correlation between the two), then you may want to get rid of it sooner. What’s more, some little ones wake throughout the night crying for the paci to be put back in. If that’s not working for your family, then you should feel empowered to stop using the pacifier. Just be sure to avoid the transition right before a major life event, like moving homes.
Licensed clinical psychologist Sarah Bren, Ph.D., urges parents to help their children prepare in advance for any kind of transition, whether it’s saying goodbye to a pacifier, starting a new daycare program, welcoming a new sibling into the family, or moving into a big kid bed. Talk about the feelings they might have and what they can do. “You might feel frustrated if you’re upset and want your pacifier. What can you do instead?” Involving children in the process helps them feel more in control and will tap into their early problem-solving skills.
This advice not only applies to older toddlers but to babies as well. “We need to talk to our kids about everything,” Broda says. “Even if it’s a 6-month-old… explain it to them.” Tell your baby that they’ll no longer be using the pacifier and that you know they’ll still be okay. Your baby may cry for a few nights or struggle to sleep, in which case you might want to do some sleep training, Broda says. But it shouldn’t drag on for weeks because it’s typically an easier transition to drop the paci before 12 months.
With older toddlers, you can have more of a dialogue, of course. Maybe tell a silly story about the pacifier and why it’s leaving your home, or give your kiddo a lovey blanket or stuffed animal for comfort, Broda suggests. Keep the conversation positive and upbeat.
2. Limit Use
If your child is using the pacifier all the time, you can start to limit it to sleep or stressful situations like doctor’s visits, Crosby says. Then you can either go cold turkey by cutting off the tip or acting as the binky fairy and taking the pacifier at night while leaving a gift for your child. If you prefer a more gradual approach, you can help your kid hold a favorite lovey and take deep “magic breaths” together, Crosby says. Or praise your child for their patience as you stretch out the time (first just seconds, then work up to minutes) before you hand over the pacifier. And be sure to do something supportive to help your child manage the waiting, like read together or play hand games.
3. Don’t Link the Pacifier to Being a Baby
As tempting as it may be to tell your child that pacifiers are for babies, don’t do it. They are going to want it sometimes, says Bren, and saying “You’re a big girl/boy now,” will just confuse them or make them feel ambivalent about it all. Normalize the fact that it’s a tricky process and you’ll remove the shame from the experience. And rest assured that this type of development can fluctuate. Your child will feel like a big kid one day and more like a baby the next. And that’s okay!
4. Allow Kids to Be Upset
As with any big change, you can expect your child to feel sad or mad about their pacifier not being readily available. Allow them to be upset, validate their feelings, and reflect it back to them before you plug them with a pacifier, Bren says. Try saying: “You’re feeling frustrated. I understand. We’re not going to have pacis right now. But we can [do another activity, like read a book, cuddle on the couch, hug your Teddy bear].” The idea is to move more slowly and mindfully and to give your child the time and space to feel a range of emotions rather than turn off their distress like a light switch.
And if your child is having a hard time, try to muster as much patience and empathy as you can, Crosby adds. Try to be consistent and calm, even as they’re upset. Then just keep yourselves busy with plenty of distracting activities.
5. Gather Your Support System
This is one of those times when it’s important to reach out to friends and family for support. You could let them know the transition you’re about to make and ask for advice or their help, whether that’s dropping off dinners for the week you’re pulling the paci or babysitting for a few hours while you catch a break.
6. Stick with the Plan
Consistency is very important, especially for older kids, so once you come up with a plan that works for your family, you should stick to it, Broda says. Provide your little one with a routine and predictable expectations to help ensure that saying goodbye to the paci is as quick of a process as possible.
No parent has the time or energy to entertain their kids all the time—that’s a tall order, especially when you’re dealing with toddlers. That’s where movie nights (or mornings, or afternoons) come into play. And while the screen-time guilt is real, not all films are created equally, so we came up with a list of the best movies for toddlers that offer simple, valuable lessons about friendship, teamwork, and kindness. The plots are straightforward, and the visuals, dialogue, and songs are all engaging enough to hold your toddler’s limited attention. So throw on one of these family-friendly flicks and cuddle up with your budding cinephile (or use this time to get some chores done). We know they’ll be a hit. (Curious about which films to watch when they get a bit older? We’ve got those, too.)
Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: An Underground Rock Experience
Fashion has never been more fun, as an adorable mole rat named Wilbur discovers the joy of clothing, much to the dismay of his community who would never dare not to go bare. When his bandmates in the Mole-ing Stones discover his sartorial secret, they want to turn him over to authorities only to receive a surprising serving of justice.
Where it’s streaming: HBO Max
Why it’s great for toddlers: Aside from the catchy tunes to rock out to, kids will learn–and adults will be reminded–to embrace self-expression and the things they love, despite what others might say. The story telling is top notch as it’s penned by former Sesame Street writer Mo Willems.
Travel to Colombia and meet the Madrigals, a multi-generational family living in a magical home that bestows powers on all its inhabitants—well, everyone except Mirabel. Feeling lost and confused over not being blessed with a special gift, Mirabel searches for a purpose, and finds one after discovering that her familial home is in danger of losing its magic.
Where it’s streaming: Disney+
Why it’s great for toddlers: Colorful, musical and magical are just a few adjectives to describe this Disney instant classic. Be prepared to listen to pretty much every song on repeat (Lin-Manual Miranda's tunes have reached "Let It Go" status). Some themes might be a little tricky for young minds to grasp (namely feeling inadequate and like an outcast), but overall kids will learn to believe in themselves and their abilities and that families can work together to overcome obstacles.
When koala Buster Moon is faced with the deterioration of a theater he runs, he comes up with an ingenious idea, a singing competition. The competitors are all animals, each with their own personality and unique voice (think a stay-at-home pig who desperately needs something for herself, a stage-shy elephant with an incredible voice, and a gorilla hoping to make his own way in the world). The film’s characters are voiced by Matthew McConaughey, Reese Witherspoon, and Seth MacFarlane, among others.
Where is it streaming: Amazon Prime, Hulu (with Live TV)
Why it’s great for toddlers: Parents and kids will notice popular songs that are featured on playlists and the radio, and many toddlers may even be able to sing along with the adorable animal characters. Lessons on believing in yourself, the importance of friendly competition, and supporting others will please parents who can help younger viewers pick up on these themes throughout the film.
Your kids’ top rescue crew returns in this sequel to PAW Patrol: The Movie. This time around, a meteor crash lands in Adventure City and magically gives Chase and his friends superpowers. After learning that a meteor-obsessed mad scientist named Victoria Vance wants to steal their powers for villainous means, the crew jumps into action to do what they do best: save the day.
Where it’s streaming: Paramount+
Why it’s great for toddlers: It’s filled with a cast of familiar characters that your tot already loves, and stays true to the PAW Patrol formula. That being said, there are a lot of action sequences that result in loud noises and characters being in peril, so some children might find it distressing. In addition to themes of teamwork and perseverance, tiny patroller Skye shines as she reminds kids that even the smallest pups can make a huge difference.
When clownfish Marlin’s young son Nemo gets captured, he goes on an animated adventure across the ocean to find him. Marlin gets some help from absent-minded fish Dory, meets some laid-back turtles, and escapes the clutches of hungry seagulls in this well-loved film that debuted 20 years ago.
Where it's streaming: Disney+
Why it’s great for toddlers: Toddlers can learn about ocean life in a fun and colorful way, while also picking up positive lessons on friendship and the importance of family. Parents should note that some of the predator fish may frighten very young viewers.
In what feels like a magical mashup of Finding Nemo and The Little Mermaid, a five-year-old boy rescues Ponyo, a goldfish princess. Liam Neeson, Matt Damon, Tina Fey, and Betty White lend their voices to this animated fantasy film helmed by master filmmaker, Hayao Miyazaki.
Where it's streaming: HBO Max
Why it’s great for toddlers: The colorful and simplistic animation in the film will draw toddlers in and keep them captivated for the nearly two-hour runtime. Ecofriendly messages will also appeal to parents.
The famous and timeless bear goes on an unexpected adventure with his friends. They must rescue his human friend, Christopher Robin whom they believe has been taken by a horrible monster called the Backson.
Where it's streaming: Disney+, Amazon Prime
Why it’s great for toddlers: This timeless classic focuses on some of the sweetest and most caring bonds of friendship, and the Pooh gang are examples of positive role models who are selfless and kind. Young viewers will also delight in the songs and the simplicity of the story.
Everyone’s favorite Irish birds have finally soared to the big screen in this adventurous tale filled with the same level of charm the hit series is known for. With an ominous storm brewing off the coast of Puffin Rock, Oona, Baba and a flock of new friends race against time to find a missing puffling egg.
Where it’s streaming: Apple TV
Why it’s great for toddlers: Just like the series, important lessons are gently delivered for young minds so as not to overwhelm them. While the importance of teamwork to reach a goal is front and center, the topic of climate change and its ripple effect on communities is explored in a way that little minds can start to understand.
Canine Blue gets her first feature-film musical adventure complete with song and dance numbers. Instead of placing Blue in an animated world, as the television series does, the film finds Blue and her human companion Josh in a very real and vibrant New York City. They are heading to an audition for a Broadway show and need help from passersby and viewers when they get lost.
Where it's streaming: Paramount+
Why it’s great for toddlers: The songs are engaging, and toddlers will want to dance and sing along. With the same format as the television show, young viewers can follow the paw print clues right along with Blue and Josh, involving toddlers in the journey. Parents will also enjoy the message that dreams can come true and may find seeing previous hosts Steve and Joe a nostalgic bonus.
Flipping the tale of Bigfoot around, this flick sees a lovable yeti named Migo come face-to-face with the mythical creature Smallfoot, aka a human. Unfortunately, no one believes him. So with his friends by his side, Migo leaves the grounds of his village to see what other wonders might exist in the world.
Where it’s streaming: HBO Max
Why it’s great for toddlers: Simply said, yetis are cool! And Channing Tatum does a great job making Migo so likable that you can’t help but root for him. That being said, just a head’s up that there is some tension and mild fighting between humans and yetis whenever they meet. Oh, and the soundtrack is also stacked with sing-along friendly tunes by Zendaya and James Cordon.
Pixar’s uplifting adventure tale is still flying high 15 years after its initial release. After making a promise to his late wife, elderly widower Carl ties thousands of balloons to his house in order to fly to South America. En route, he discovers an adorable stowaway, nine-year-old Russell, a young "Wilderness Explorer" scout who has come along for the ride. The unlikely travel buddies meet a cast of colorful characters along their journey as they work together to overcome some dubious forces that threaten to keep them from reaching their final destination.
Where it’s streaming: Disney+
Why is it great for toddlers? They’ll learn to embrace new adventures from Carl and Russell and you’ll be reminded how much this movie makes you cry. While the film deals with grief and loss, the non-stop action and silly moments are enough to entertain your kiddo if you’re not ready to or have other plans to broach this subject.
The Daniel Tiger Movie: Won't You Be Our Neighbor
PBS
Daniel and the whole Tiger clan welcome a new family to the neighborhood with the hopes of making them feel welcome. Daniel hopes to find a new friend. If kids like this movie, they can also watch Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood: Tiger Family Trip
Where it's streaming: Amazon Prime
Why it’s great for toddlers: Based on the characters from the PBS television series, Daniel Tiger is a positive role model who provides kids with a fun way to learn some valuable lessons surrounding friendship and kindness. He also teaches young kids basic social skills and problem-solving with simple language in terms they can understand. Daniel also speaks directly to kids.
A flashy new toy space ranger named Buzz threatens old-school cowboy action figure Woody, who fears the young boy whose bedroom he shares no longer wants him. This film, the first in the iconic franchise, features several toys like Mr. Potato Head, toy soldiers, and a piggy bank coming to life when the child who owns them isn’t around.
Where is it streaming: Disney+
Why it’s great for toddlers: Parents can share some of their own childhood memories through the cast of classic toy characters they may have played with growing up, including a toy tape recorder, an Etch A Sketch, a barrel of monkeys, a troll doll, and the Magic 8Ball. Toddlers will also delight in the idea of toys magically coming to life. Parents should know that some words may not be suitable for toddlers, including ‘shut up’ and ‘idiot.’ There are also some darker moments where toys get hurt or do mildly scary things to protect themselves.
Things get interesting at Mossy Bottom Farm when a space alien shows up, but she isn’t there to take over the world. Will Shaun and the gang be able to get her back to her own planet before she is captured by a nefarious organization?
Where is it streaming: Netflix
Why it’s great for toddlers: Young viewers will delight at the simplicity of the dialogue, which is just a series of expressive sounds. Parents will appreciate the lessons surrounding inclusion and friendship that they can share with their kids as they watch.
Young bee Barry B. Benson, who just graduated college, wants to do more than become a part of the hive in this comedy starring Jerry Seinfeld. He befriends a human and realizes he may have a great purpose other than honey-making. Some A-list stars lend their voices to the film including Oprah Winfrey, Chris Rock, and Kathy Bates.
Where it's streaming: Netflix
Why it’s great for toddlers: This family friendly movie lets parents enjoy the comedy of Jerry Seinfeld while their toddlers can easily follow the story. The movie also has great lessons about teamwork and unique relationships, like the one between Barry and Vanessa. After watching the film, parents can follow up with an educational lesson on how bees really make honey.
With all his friends in the Hundred Acre Wood busy preparing for winter, a lonely Tigger decides to go on an epic journey to find members in his family tree. After a few roadblocks along the way, his search comes to a surprising and heartfelt end as Pooh, Roo, Piglet and co. rally around their bouncy friend to remind him of the true meaning of family.
Where it’s streaming: Disney+
Why it’s great for toddlers: Youngsters will learn that families come in all sorts of shapes and sizes and how true friends will be there for you no matter what. Parents will also love the nostalgia of seeing A.A. Milne’s iconic characters up to their old tricks.
With a modern look, the Peanuts gang gets its very own film. Parents will enjoy seeing the loveable characters from their youth embark on new adventures as Charlie Brown tries to go from a loveable loser to someone who can impress the new girl.
Where it's streaming: Disney+
Why it’s great for toddlers: The movie clocks in with a runtime of just 93 minutes, making it short enough to sustain young viewers' attention. It also touches on important themes like friendship and self-esteem, and almost all of the characters are voiced by actual child actors instead of adult Hollywood stars.
This '90s film will bring many parents back to childhood. Babe, the title character, proves he is more than just an average pig (His talents include the ability to herd sheep.). This children’s classic won an Academy Award and garnered multiple nominations, including one for Best Picture.
Where is it streaming: Amazon Prime, Apple TV
Why it’s great for toddlers: Young viewers will enjoy the various farm animal characters, especially the tiny mouse chorus, which adds a musical element to the film. It also gives kids a chance to see farm life from the perspective of the animals.
PAW Patrol: The Movie
Courtesy Spin Master
Ryder and his crew must step up when infamous cat-lover and troublemaker Mayor Humdinger causes chaos in Adventure City. The rescue pups even have a new friend, Liberty, a delightful dachshund.
Where is it streaming: Paramount+
Why it’s great for toddlers: Toddlers will be excited to see their favorite pups from the television series in this animated feature-length adventure. The engaging storyline and introduction of new vehicles and rescues will keep them on the edge of their seats.
In this 2006 film, race car superstar Lightning McQueen gets sidelined in the small community of Radiator Springs while on his way to a big event. While not happy about it at first, Lightning begins to realize that there is more to life than racing and stardom, and he may have found it in the small town with its eclectic cast of characters. Young viewers can catch Cars 2 and Cars 3 if they love the first film.
Where it's streaming: Disney+
Why it’s great for toddlers: The lessons surrounding winning and the value of friendship are important ones that parents can explore with their kids as they watch the film. The colorful animation and cast of characters will keep even the youngest viewers entertained. Parents should note that there is some mild language in the film such as hell.
After a loud noise rocks the Hundred Acre Wood, Pooh and friends go in search of the culprit. After learning that it might have been caused by a heffalump–a “dangerous” creature–the crew decides to try and catch one. After being left behind, Roo goes on his own adventure and comes across an adorable heffalump called Lumpy. They band together to prove to everyone that the heffalumps don't deserve their bad reputation.
Where it’s streaming: Disney+
Why it’s great for toddlers: It’s been nearly 20 years since this movie hit the big screen and sadly its lessons are still needed today, namely never to judge a book by its cover. Apart from teachings on friendship and acceptance, kids will love its adventurous nature and sweet characters.
The beloved children’s book comes to life as the always-curious monkey George is taken from Africa to New York City for the adventure of a lifetime. Of course, your fave primate gets into a whole lot of mischievous behavior alongside his museum-employee pal, aka The Man With the Yellow Hat. After learning that the museum owner’s son wants to turn the educational building into a parking lot, the duo team up to do everything they can to stop that from happening.
Where it’s streaming: Hulu
Why it’s great for toddlers: Watching George being clumsy and silly always leads to laughs, while parents will enjoy hearing the familiar voices of comedy legends like Will Ferrell, Eugene Levy and Dick Van Dyke. And of course, at the heart of this film is the message to always embrace and explore curiosity, which is so important for developing minds.
One Big Ocean
Based on the educational PBS preschool series, the film features characters Splash and Bubbles leaving their home and heading out into the vast ocean. They meet many types of ocean creatures and explore a variety of topics.
Where is it streaming: Amazon Prime
Why it’s great for toddlers: Educational concepts such as biodiversity and migration are presented in a way that young viewers can understand. The colorful characters, ocean environment, and fun songs will keep toddlers entertained as they learn valuable lessons about unity and the importance of caring for our undersea world.
A rare macaw named Blu decides to leave behind the comfort of his Minnesota home and head to Rio de Janeiro after meeting Jewel. Jewel, another rare macaw, is different than the domesticated Blu. Their differences lead to adventures neither of them ever imagined. The film features the voices of Jesse Eisenberg, Anne Hathaway, and Neil Patrick Harris.
Where it's streaming: Hulu, Disney+
Why it’s great for toddlers: Rio is filled with vibrant colors, positive messages, and role models, including the independent female Jewel. The catchy music in the film will also hold the attention of toddlers. There is some mild language like ‘idiot’ and ‘shut up,’ a few scary characters, and some scantily-clad people at Carnival.
Remy, a rat, wants nothing more than to become a great chef. When he finds himself living under a fancy Parisian restaurant, the culinary scene will be forever changed. The characters are voiced by some of the funniest names in comedy including Patton Oswalt, Will Arnett, Brad Garrett, and Janeane Garofalo.
Where it's streaming: Disney+
Why it’s great for toddlers: With an interesting plot, plenty of humor, and colorful animation, the film will appeal to toddlers and parents. Parents should be aware that some scenes may be a bit intense for younger viewers, especially one featuring a gun-wielding granny.
The Muppets Take Manhattan
Sony Pictures
In this classic 1980s film featuring Jim Henson’s muppets, Kermit the Frog and his friends graduate from college and head to Manhattan to take Broadway by storm with their new show. Once they get to the Big Apple, they realize things aren’t so simple and showbiz is tougher than they could have imagined.
Where is it streaming: Paramount+, Amazon Prime
Why it’s great for toddlers: Young viewers will enjoy the cute and funny muppets, each with a unique personality. They will also love the musical dance numbers peppered throughout the film. Parents should know that the film does feature some adult humor and smoking.
Ah, summertime. The sun is shining, the weather is warm, and the kids are ready to hit the beach. But wait. Before you head out to soak up some rays, let’s talk about something important: sunscreen for kids. As parents, we all know that protecting your little ones from the sun’s harmful rays is crucial. With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Fear not, because we’ve done the research and compiled a list of the best sunscreens for kids.
As much as we all love the sun, it’s no secret that too much exposure can lead to serious health problems like melanoma. This is especially true for kids who have sensitive skin and are more susceptible to damage from UV rays. So, grab your beach bag and pick up the sunscreen—your kids will thank you later.
Baby Bum Mineral Sunscreen Lotion
Baby Bum
Made with soothing ingredients like coconut oil and shea butter, this fragrance-free sunscreen from Baby Bum is made with 20% zinc oxide but still rubs in well and comes with SPF 50. The 3 oz. size is also perfect for travel!
Hello Bello's SPF 50 Sunscreen Mineral Lotion has organic botanicals, including calendula green tea and avocado, is reef-friendly, water resistant up to 80 minutes, hypoallergenic, vegan, cruelty-free and full of moisturizing shea, cocoa, and coconut oils. Phew! Need another reason to buy it? It's good for all skin types, including moms!
Earth Baby’s SPF 30 Sunscreen is reef-friendly, uses a non-nano zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for the best protection against UVA and UVB rays. Packed with German chamomile, mango, and shea butter. This is definitely one of the best sunscreens for kids.
Thinkbaby Safe is a mineral-based sunscreen that rubs into skin incredibly easily without any oily residue. It's free of biologically harmful chemicals and contains absolutely no avobenzone, oxybenzone, or UV chemical absorbers.
The folks down under know good sun protection: Blue Lizard Australian sunscreens have been pediatrician recommended and dermatologist trusted for over 20 years. They contain no skin-irritating fragrances or parabens, and this one is water-resistant for up to 40 minutes. With 10% zinc oxide and 5% titanium dioxide, it provides true broad-spectrum protection from UV rays for the most vulnerable skin.
This lightweight sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes but still doesn’t feel greasy. Organic green tea, rose hips, and buriti oil repair damaged skin, and chamomile soothes sensitive babes. Non-nanoparticle zinc oxide offers the most effective broad-spectrum sun protection possible without the danger of being absorbed by marine life or being disruptive to reef growth processes.
Non-allergenic and tear-free, this mineral-based, broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection offers smooth application. Pediatrician and dermatologist approved, the lightweight consistency is nourishing on delicate skin. Did we mention the awesome price tag?
Awarded the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance as a suitable sunscreen for persons with sensitive skin conditions, this winner provides 100% mineral sun protection that is made for baby's delicate skin. The gentle formula promises superior broad-spectrum UVA and UVB sun protection by creating a screen between baby's skin and the sun’s rays. It’s also free of irritating chemicals, fragrances, parabens, phthalates, and dyes, so it’s suitable for use on even the most sensitive skin.
The scrumptious scent of tangerine and vanilla might convince you that you’re frosting a cupcake instead of rubbing in powerful, planet-friendly sun protection. With a skin-soothing base of sunflower oil, beeswax, and vitamin E, it’s also reef safe and biodegradable. We also love that the tube is recyclable!
Sunshine & Glitter X CRAYOLA Biodegradable Glitter, SPF 50 in Jazzberry Jam
Sunshine & Glitter
These sunscreens nourish as much as they sparkle, loaded with antioxidants, luscious fragrances, and a luxurious texture that gently blends into the skin; they also provide effective SPF protection (UVA & UVB coverage) and are reef-friendly and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes—this is the sunscreen your kids will actually want to wear. (And you’ll know where you missed as they put the glitter on, showing them that sun safety is fun.)
Kiss My Face Kids Mineral Continuous Spray, SPF 30
Kiss My Face
This freshly scented, lightweight sunscreen hydrates and protects their skin with moisturizing aloe vera and avocado. It's also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
Earth Mama Uber-Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen, SPF 40
Earth Mama Organics
Earth Mam's sunscreen for sensitive skin rates high on the EWG's list of best kids' sunscreen! It's got organic colloidal oatmeal and organic shea butter that soothes rashy skin, is reef safe, water-resistant for up to 40 minutes, offers broad-spectrum SPF 40 coverage and contains no chemicals or fragrances.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
There’s no such thing as a meltdown-free kid, but parents already know that certain situations tend to inspire more tantrums. One of these is leaving a fun place, like a park or somewhere your kids are playing. These are known as “transition meltdowns,” and they may seem like they just come with the territory of having kids of a certain age. But one parenting coach on TikTok has a surprisingly simple tip to help prevent them, and you’re going to want to hear it.
Dr. Chelsey Hauge-Zavaleta posted this video, which starts with a clip of a dad telling his kids they have five minutes before it’s time to leave a bounce house. Right on cue: meltdown.
“There is a fundamental clash of perspectives between the adult brain and the child brain when you’re trying to transition,” she explains. “This dad is future-oriented. He said, ‘Five minutes and then we’re leaving.’ His language is focused on what comes next. You know what the kids’ brain is focused on? What they’re doing right now.”
The solution, Dr. Hauge-Zavaleta says, is to “work with your child’s brain, not against it.”
“Focus on what they’re focusing on… Instead of ‘five more minutes until we leave,’ say, ‘five more minutes to play,'” she says.
Is it really that simple? According to her, yes! But that’s not her only tip. She has others that she says will make transitions even less likely to result in your child kicking, shouting, and fighting you every step of the way. Another thing parents can do is join their kids to play for the last few minutes. This, she says, helps “deliver the information [that it’s time to leave] in a way that matches their experience of the world.”
“You’ve got to slow way down and you’ve got to shift to their perspective,” she adds.
Some more suggestions: get close to your kids when you deliver what may be bad news, rather than shout it at them from across the playground. And use “melodic intonation.” In the video, she demonstrates how she sings to her kids that it’s time to get in the car.
Of course, there’s no advice in the world that will completely put a stop to meltdowns, because kids are kids. But these tips are a great place to start.
Tucked away in the heart of vibrant New Orleans, Loews New Orleans Hotel offers families a blend of luxury, comfort, and Southern charm that’s hard to beat. If you’re experiencing this iconic hotel firsthand, prepare to be blown away by its family-friendly atmosphere and prime location. This journey through the Big Easy is a memorable one, and you’ll see why this hotel is the ultimate destination for your next family getaway.
From the moment you step into the lobby, you’ll be enveloped in the city’s unmistakable warmth and hospitality. The hotel’s elegant decor is fully infused with Southern flair and immediately sets the stage for an unforgettable stay. Of course, it’s the staff that makes the atmosphere really come alive. Be prepared for genuine smiles and above-and-beyond service.
Loews New Orleans Hotel
Room for the Whole Crew
One of the highlights of your stay at is the spacious, family-friendly accommodations. Their rooms provide space for both parents and kiddos, complete with large bathrooms, suite layouts, and stunning views of the city skyline. Thoughtful amenities like a mini-fridge and complimentary Wi-Fi add an extra level of convenience that makes all the difference when you’re traveling with little ones.
Loews New Orleans Hotel
Loews Loves Families
Loews goes above and beyond to cater to families. Cribs are complimentary, and so are their baby bath amenity kits, so no worries if you forget something. Just ask if you need gaming tablets, bath gear, or coloring books and crayons. Plus, kids under 18 stay free!
Loews New Orleans Hotel
Family Bonding, New Orleans Style
New Orleans is the ultimate playground for families, and Loews is the perfect home base for exploring all the city has to offer. From the iconic French Quarter with its street performers, art and mouthwatering beignets to the family-friendly Audubon Zoo and Aquarium, the Big Easy has a ton to offer. With its convenient location within walking distance of top attractions, the hotel makes it easy for families to navigate the city. We we able to easily walk to the French Quarter, restaurants, shopping, and waterfront photo ops.
Jackson Square, Loews New Orleans Hotel
Loews New Orleans Hotel is the Perfect Family Vacation Destination
When it comes to planning a family vacation, choosing the right hotel can make all the difference. Loews offers a winning combination of luxury, convenience, and family-friendly amenities. Whether you’re lounging by the indoor pool, exploring the city with your loved ones, or indulging in authentic Cajun specialties at the hotel’s onsite restaurant, Poydras & Peters, you’ll definitely feel right at home.
Poydras & Peters, Loews New Orleans Hotel
From the warm hospitality to the family-friendly features and central location, this iconic hotel is sure to surpass all your expectations and leave you excited to return. If you’re planning a family adventure to New Orleans, look no further than Loews New Orleans Hotel for an unforgettable experience that the whole family will adore!
Loews New Orleans Hotel
Editor’s accommodations provided by Loews New Orleans Hotel, and all opinions are that of the author.
Even though your baby won’t remember their first birthday, it’s a major (and incredibly cute) milestone for parents—one that your kid will love to look back on when they’re older (be sure to save all the best pics in the Tinybeans app). You’ll probably choose the most adorable party outfit, soon to be covered in freshly baked (or bought!) smash cake. But with schedules to take into account and a lot of little personalities to cater to, how do you plan a party to remember that doesn’t end in disaster? Whether hosting a small gathering with family or a big blowout, these are the first birthday party ideas and tips that’ll ensure everyone has a great time—especially the birthday babe.
1. Respect the nap.
Happy, stress-free parties require a well-rested baby, so time the birthday bash around your baby’s naptime. While this may mean a different start time than Grandma expected, everybody (especially your child!) will have a better time if you work around the sleep schedule.
2. Create a quiet area.
Since parties with babies can mean tears and gleeful shrieks, setting up a secondary party area in another room or outside for guests to go to if they need a break from the festivities is a brilliant first birthday party idea. Set out non-electronic toys for babies who may feel overstimulated, and place chairs and snacks there for adults who want a spot for quiet conversation.
3. Designate photographers.
To ensure you capture the big moments and sweet snuggles with important folks, ask a few attendees to take charge of specific photo moments. That way you can focus on your child and guests—and end up in some of the photos, too! Take all the snapshots from the day and make them into a Tinybeans photo book to save your memories of the special day.
4. Choose a simple theme.
If planning a Pinterest-worthy party sounds too stressful, stick to a simple theme. Lifestyle guru and mother of two Camille Styles opted for a summer-themed party for her daughter’s first birthday and used hearts and the colors pink and orange to make the party look cohesive.
5. Or… skip the theme.
No, you don’t need a themed first birthday party. Promise. Instead, spend your money on fun first birthday activities your baby and guests will enjoy. Our favorite is the ball pit. Just buy an inexpensive kiddie pool and a lot of colorful plastic balls. Kids will love to play around in it, and you can set it up at home or in your backyard for your child to enjoy for years to come.
One of our favorite ideas when planning parties for one-year-olds olds is to snap pictures before baby gets sleepy or cake-covered and when you and your family are more relaxed and focused. To ensure you get great photos, make or order a small smash cake before the big day and do a low-key photo shoot without any guests around. Baby will be all smiles, and no one flipping through the scrapbook will ever know that the picture was taken on a different day.
7. Weather permitting, opt for an outdoor venue.
A park or playground can be the perfect party spot; all you bring is the cake, balloons, favors, snacks, and a table. The mess will be minimal in the great outdoors, and younger guests will have lots of space to run around.
First birthday party tip: Arrive early to stake out a spot in the shade, and tell guests what color balloons or decorations you have so they know where to find you. If the weather isn’t cooperating and you need to move the party to your home, make extra room indoors by moving furniture out of the party room so little legs can crawl or walk around.
8. Put older kids in charge of games.
Delegate, delegate, delegate. Older kids, like cousins or friends’ children, usually love to be given responsibility at parties, and they’re really good at getting the younger ones’ attention. Put them in charge of party games, music-making, singing songs, and more. Chat with the older kids (and their parents) in advance to ask what they’re comfortable doing and create a plan.
free stocks via Unsplash
9. Use a cupcake for smashing.
Smash cakes are all the rage with the one-year-old crowd and their photo-taking families, and while we say smash away, a tiny confection or cupcake works just as well with much less mess. You may even be able to salvage your child’s outfit for future events if you go for a less messy, smaller cake.
10. Personalize the party.
Highlight a few of your baby’s favorite things over the past year (first word! favorite food! favorite stuffed animal!) and make a poster you display at the party. This first birthday party idea from Kara’s Party Ideas lets guests learn about your baby and is worth snapping a photo of for your child to revisit in a few years. Better yet, make it a yearly tradition.
11. Create a time capsule.
Asking your guests to write the guest of honor a short letter to be read years from now tops our list of sweet first birthday party ideas. To ward off writer’s block, offer suggestions for what to write, such as helpful advice, a memory of the party or first year, or wishes for the future. Store the letters in a marked container that reads “Do not open until you turn 21” (or whatever age you like). For guests who can’t make it, ask them to email your submissions—print them out, and file them away for a future date.
12. Make your party treats self-serve.
Set up everything from drinks to dessert in advance so you can tell guests to help themselves, leaving you to focus on your child and having fun. For younger guests, prep cut-up fruit, applesauce pouches, and cups of Cheerios or snack crackers. For adults, a charcuterie board, crudites, and antipasto are always popular nibbles.
13. Keep it short and sweet.
Little people get overstimulated quickly and can’t handle too much of a good thing. Limit your party to two hours or less so everyone can leave on a positive note.
Capture all the cutest (and messiest) moments from baby’s big day—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.
Let’s set the scene: You’re pulling out the school pickup line and heading home. You’re curious about what happened when your kid wasn’t with you and ask them questions like, “How was your day? How did the test go? Did you learn anything interesting today?” And all you’re getting in return are one-word answers (if you’re lucky). What’s a parent to do? According to parenting coach Chelsey Hauge-Zavaleta, it’s totally normal for your kid to shut down at the end of the school day—and peppering them with questions the minute they enter your car can seem a bit like an interrogation.
This time of day is a transition between school and after-school hours, and kids need to ease into it, explained Dr. Hauge-Zavaleta in a recent TikTok. She also offers alternatives to the “How was your day?” questions that might have better success after you’re done with school pickup.
First off, you can offer them a snack that you brought for them from home. This shows that you were thinking of them and takes the pressure off the situation. You can ask them if they’d like to listen to Taylor Swift or classical music (or whatever their favorite genre of music might be). Maybe you’d want to share something about your day to model the sharing behavior you’d like to see from them. This could be something like, “I had a really dicey meeting today,” and then you’d explain what happened. And lastly, you could just be quiet. Think about how you feel when you walk in the door after a particularly hectic day. Silence is often what you are looking for.
This behavior often changes as your kids get older. You might be shocked when your never-stops-talking kid turns into a quiet, sullen tween. But sometimes creating a safe space for them to share what they want when they want is all you need to do to get some tidbits of information about their day.
If you’re struggling to get out the door with a baby for daily errands, you’re probably not considering a road trip, going camping, or even a flight any time soon. But taking a trip with a baby is actually easier than you think. And straight talk: Traveling with a baby is easier than with an older child, so get out while you can. Your baby just might be the most well-behaved traveler you encounter on your journey.
Plus, you’ll score some amazing memories, killer photos, and probably a few funny stories out of it. So if you’re dreaming of traveling, here’s why you should make it a reality now.
1. Babies sleep. A lot. If you anticipate your baby’s needs by scheduling regular feedings, cuddles and diaper changes, they’ll be mostly content to snooze as you explore your new surroundings.
2. Time goes so fast. Take these moments to travel while you can.
3. You usually don’t have to pay for your child’s seat on a train or airplane until age two. Just pop them on your lap, which is their favorite place to be anyway. They will also likely not have to pay an entrance fee at museums and other must-see attractions. Yep, that includes Disney theme parks.
4. Your child will see a whole new side of you, and experience a sense of wonder you can’t get from your regular routine.
5. You don’t have to pay for baby meals either. You may be lugging along some extra gear, like baby bottles or formula containers, but you’re not paying for an overpriced meal that an older child would say “All done!” to after eating only two bites.
6. You can be present in a different way than you can at home. You’re experiencing new things right along with your child, and there’s magic in sharing that sense of excitement and wonder together.
7. It’s hard to believe, but you have more flexibility now than you will when your child is older. Before you know it, your kiddo will be in school and enrolled in activities and your adventures will be restricted by those schedules. So enjoy that you only need to plan around adult schedules now.
8. Travel is the most fun way to learn that yes, you can do hard things as a parent. Packing for the trip, dealing with delays or other uncomfortable travel moments, resolving conflicts with your partner, all these things can happen. And while they’re what travel horror stories are made of, they’re also a way to impress yourself with how well you’re able to adapt, alter plans, speak in a foreign language, or comfort your child. It’s just one of the many ways travel enriches our lives.
9. Traveling is good for your relationship with your partner. Babies tend to become the main topic of conversation with your partner because they’re both super cute and super needy. And while traveling with a baby won’t change that, it will give you and your partner lots of new things to discuss, as well as memories you’ll treasure.
10. Fact: Sometimes babies cry on airplanes. And despite the horror stories you’ve heard, most people are nice about it. You’ll be surprised at how helpful other passengers, and especially flight attendants, can be to parents with little ones. From offers to walk with your baby up and down the aisle to bringing snacks for you, you’ll find a community onboard that’s ready to help you get through an in-flight meltdown. And if someone is a jerk? Well, you’ll never have to see them again.
11. Portability! Non-mobile babies are along for the ride. Pop them in a stroller, infant car seat, hiking front pack, or baby carrier, and they will nap and chill while you go off on adventures.
12. A non-mobile baby gets into less mischief in a new place than an older child would. Once you plonk them down someplace safe, you don’t need to worry about them putting something dangerous in their mouth, knocking over a fragile vase, or toppling down ungated stairs.
13. Once kids can walk and talk, they have a lot of opinions about what they want to do and when. Babies mainly want to spend time with you, so you get to decide where you go and what you do, provided you’re mindful of naps and mealtimes.
14. That first year can be a blur of sleepless nights, feedings, and diaper changes. Traveling with a baby gives you new and exciting things to focus on, which can up your mood and your energy level. That’s good for you, and it’s good for your baby to see you excited and experiencing things you love.
15. Everybody loves babies. Expect kindness from strangers, hotel staff, and restaurant managers as they go out of their way to help you and make sure you and your child get the most out of your travels.
16. It’s the best kind of quality time. Experiencing new things as a family builds special bonds that are hard to create at home, where you’re working and rushing through your regular routines.
17. Visiting new places is an education. Point out different colors in the woods or name landmarks in a city to develop your baby’s language skills.
18. In addition to language skills, exposing your child to new people, sights, sounds, smells, foods, languages, and scenery enriches their mind and their life. Take photos and videos so you can remind them of their baby adventures when they’re older. Kids love to hear about things they did when they were younger, and travel gives you lots to talk about, from funny memories to historical landmarks you saw and interesting people you met.
19. You’ll love seeing the world through your child’s eyes. Watching your baby experience sand or ocean waves for the first time is a memory you won’t forget. The same goes for snow, new foods, and visits with relatives who live too far away.
20. Getting away from your home and most of your stuff shows you in vivid detail how you can be happy and fulfilled with so much less, and that definitely includes baby gear. Yes, you’ll need to bring necessities like diapers, but you won’t need all the toys, all the outfits, all the stuff. Try this test: Give your baby an empty water bottle or magazine and you’ll see how a random object can hold a baby’s attention as well as a toy does.
21. You’ll spot things you wouldn’t have otherwise. Watch your baby intently looking at an animal they haven’t seen before or laughing at an unfamiliar sound, and you’ll develop a new appreciation for your surroundings and your child’s brilliant developing mind.
22. Perspective. Babies thrive on routines and schedules, which can be difficult to maintain during travel. If you’re the kind of parent who freaks out if you get off schedule (same!), seeing that you and your child can survive a time difference, a missed nap, sleeping in a different bed or other shifts to your routine can make you relax and be willing to take other worthwhile risks in the future.
23. Traveling with a baby teaches you to slow down and adapt when necessary. It’s harder to maintain an itinerary when traveling with a baby, but it can be incredibly valuable to take an unexpected break and sit while your child drinks a bottle or nurses. Or to leave a museum amid a baby meltdown and walk the grounds instead. Stepping out of your scheduled activities to adjust to your child’s needs can also open you up to experiences you wouldn’t have had otherwise. A later start time, taking a different route, or spending longer at one location can all lead to fortuitous surprises.
24. Self-care. Visiting a place you’re excited about and planning an enriching itinerary can make you feel like your pre-baby self again. And all new parents need that sometimes. Pro tip: Take turns with your partner to hang out with the baby during naps while the other parent slips out for some solo activities.
25. You’ll instill a love of travel and learning in your child. Even if your baby won’t remember the adventures you took when they were little, they’ll know that exploring the world is important to you and that can shape their own interest in new experiences.
It’s no secret that Amazon carries a lot of products. Like…a lot. And even if you peruse often or check out all your ‘recommended items based on your searches’, there’s a good chance you haven’t even scratched the surface of surprising Amazon finds. But what if you’re missing out? What if you need plush microbes, pickle bandages, or mixed bug trail mix? You just never know. So we pulled together a list of surprising Amazon finds that are truly a little wild, but are also products customers just like you are actually buying!
Al Dente, the Singing Floating Pasta Timer
Amazon
Who among us doesn't need a floating pasta timer named Al Dente? Toss him in with your pasta water and he'll sing you a little tune when it's ready.
We wish we'd known sooner that we could use Amazon for all of our Plagues of the 21st Century plush keychain needs. In fact, the whole GIANTmicrobes Collection is available.
They had to get to a window cleaning robot at some point. This little guy suctions onto your window, sprays, and buffs away without you needing to pull out a stool.
Can you look at this little boba milk tea stationary pouch, square in its little boba milk tea stationary pouch eyes, and say you don't want it? Can you? Available in 5 colors.
These pickled plasters don't just protect cuts and scrapes; they also have a pickle-like texture. For some reason. But that's still pretty fun, right? (Latex-free, 24ct)
Pop one of the bottle adaptors (and leak-proof gasket) onto whatever product is running low, flip it over, and you have a squeeze bottle that lets you get out every last bit of the product!
At the pool, on the beach, even in the backyard—this giant roller ring float inflates fast and is serious summer fun. *Children require full adult supervision when swimming and engaging in water activities.
Where has this been all our lives? Just slide it right under your value-sized laundry detergent dispenser and never worry about drips, drops, or dabs of sticky laundry soap again.
These are actually genius. Label all your food storage containers with what's in them, when they were stored, and when to use them by. Obviously, that's great, but these sticker labels dissolve as your wash the container they're on, so you don't have to worry about sticky residue or scraping.
Available in either battery-powered or rechargeable, this mug stirs up your beverage with the touch of a button. Especially helpful when you have drinks that tend to settle after a bit.
These actually come in handy way more frequently than we thought. Electric cords, curtains, camping, umbrellas, sporting equipment...keep them around and thank us later.
This cute indoor compost bin can be placed right on your kitchen countertop to provide easy access at all times and it has a filter system that makes it totally odorless. Available in white and stainless, too.
This portable cup holder clamps onto tollers, rolling luggage, wagons—really anything with a handle—for serious convenience. It even includes a phone holder!
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
If you’re anything like us, there’s a good chance you’re currently sitting in a room in your house surrounded by your kids’ stuff. Toys. Socks. Is that a fork? It’s just… stuff. It accumulates so fast, and there isn’t always time to neatly organize everything. Storage baskets are our favorite hack for faking it. They keep everything off the floor so we can get to all of it when we have a minute. And they can look so good.
These storage baskets are a great combination of storage and decor, plus we made sure that they’re durable and will hold up to having blocks tossed into them or little hands digging for a marker. Woven baskets? We’ve got them. Storage baskets with lids? Look no further. Modern metal baskets? Absolutely. There’s something for every room in this list so you can start your 2024 off tidy. Kinda. We’re calling that a win.
Milos Handwoven Storage Basket
CB2
Woven by hand from banana leaves, this storage basket is sturdy enough for faux plants and chic enough to be filled with toys and left in the living room. We're also loving the handles that make moving it around easier. It's available in medium, large, and extra large sizes.
For smaller things—Legos, matchbox cars, Barbie clothes, markers, etc.—this fun basket is perfect. It comes in 6 colors and will look great on a counter or tabletop.
Who doesn't love a multi-tasker? These great storage baskets with lids have flat wooden tops so you could easily use these as small tables (and it would look so good!).
Aside from the versatility of this basked—which comes in 3 colors, by the way—is that it features a living finish, which means the color will patina and age beautifully over time.
Getting organized is so much easier when you have adorable baskets like these. The detail is amazing and if it's not clear by now, we sure do adore a good set of 3.
If anyone could use a touch of glam in their lives, its us. These baskets come in silver (pictured) and gold finishes, so you can pick the ones that match your vibe.
Small storage is just as important as big—no one wants to be picking up little toys or dog toys all over the room. These add a great touch of texture to the space, too.
These baskets are made from 100% natural rattan by Vietnam artisans and give such a fabulous natural element to any room (and of course another place to stash stuff!).
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
