ENERGETIC INDOOR ACTIVITY: ACTIVE JENGA FOR KIDS

ACTIVE JENGA FOR KIDS – AN INDOOR GAME THAT HELPS KIDS BURN ENERGY WITHOUT DESTROYING THE HOUSE

Kids are crazy. A good, active, energetic kind of crazy. I love my kids, but sometimes they are just… A LOT. My zombie mom, sleep deprived self just can’t keep up with all that boundless bouncing energy.

But, if I can’t help them channel that energy, more often than not, the above jumping off the furniture scenario is just a matter of time. Or maybe it will be wrestling match this time. Or possibly a game that includes throwing a ball at my glass picture frame riddled walls.

But this Active Jenga for kids game is the perfect way to harness that energy and use it up – safely. Without destroying the house.

THIS ACTIVE JENGA GAME FOR KIDS IS THE PERFECT KIDS GAME FOR ALL OCCASIONS

I love a good kids activity, but a lot of them are ‘one and done’. We do ‘one and done’ activities all the time, but there is a certain appeal to knowing that after spending 30-60 minutes on making this game, it will be ready to play over and over again. This game is perfect when:

• it’s too cold outside.
• it is too hot outside.
• it’s raining or snowing or hailing
• you have lots of kids
• you only have one kid
• the kids need to play alone for a few minutes

It’s easy to take with you. It easy to play and still fun for a variety of ages. Set up is easy. Clean up is easy. And it’s still fun when you go back to play again. This game is definitely not ‘one and done’.

3 SUPER EASY STEPS TO MAKE YOUR ACTIVE JENGA GAME FOR KIDS

Truth bomb. Ready? The hardest part of this project is coming up with ideas of what to write on each block. But, there is a silver lining.

Silver lining: I made a set of 60 questions and activities that are ready to print. If you want an easy peasy project, you can find those in my Etsy Shop. There’s even an editable PDF file to help you customize your game as simply as possible.

Extra Shiny Silver Lining: If you have a cutting machine, you get the SVG files included in the game files! Use your print and cut feature to literally open it in your cutting software, print the page with registration marks and then cut it with your machine. Then, it’ll be as easy as slapping stickers on blocks.Kids Active Jenga Game Template Page

One last insider tip –> Print on sticker paper and it will cut your prep time in half or more! As quick as you can say peel and stick, your stickers will be adhered to your Jenga game blocks and you’ll be ready to play with zero drying time needed.

Okay, let’s do this!

ACTIVE JENGA GAME FOR KIDS MATERIALS:

• Jenga Block Template – Download this from the button below. This is simply the blank colored labels you’ll put on the wooden blocks. If you want to quickly and easily customize your game with a professional look, get the Editable PDF template or the Ready-to-Print labels in my Etsy shop.
• Jenga Game – Get it on Amazon. You can find knock off versions and they will work (I used a knock off version), but the quality isn’t as good, some of the blocks were misshapen and the blocks were not all the same size. Knock offs work, actual Jenga blocks look better.
• Paper and Printer – I recommend sticker paper to make this project even easier! But standard printing paper is sufficient too. If possible, I also recommend a laser printer to help with longevity, but ink jet will work too.
• Paper Cutter or Scissors – love my Swingline SmartCut. I used both it and a pair of scissors. (Only need if you aren’t using a cutting machine)
• Glue – wood, white glue or tacky glue will work best. I used white glue. (Only need if you aren’t using sticker paper)
• Pen or Marker or image editing software – If you’re going to write the questions and activities by hand, I recommend Sharpie Art Pens. The ink is smooth, doesn’t bleed and won’t smear if it gets wet. You can also open the Jenga Block Templates in an image editor and type out your questions and activities before you print.

STEP #1: DOWNLOAD AND PRINT YOUR JENGA BLOCK TEMPLATES

• Download the free printable templates with the green button below. Save the file to your computer and print with the “actual size” setting. This file is designed to fit a name brand Jenga block, but will work on other blocks too. You will need 2 copies of the template to cover an entire set of Jenga blocks.

* PRO TIP: If you’re going to fill in your block template digitally (on the computer), do it BEFORE you print your template.

* PRO TIP: Check your game for a count of how many blocks you’ll need to cover. Name brand Jenga has 54 blocks. My knock-off set had fewer. Each template page has 30 rectangle labels. You’ll need 2 pages (give or take a few) to cover an entire game set.

STEP #2: FILL OUT AND CUT OUT THE BLOCK TEMPLATES

• If you are writing your game prompts out by hand, write one question or activity on each rectangle. You can make these a mix of questions and activities – or do all questions for a get-to-know-you style game OR do all active challenges for a real energy buster. I did a combination and even through in some math practice!
• Cut out enough labels to cover every block. I used my Silhouette Cameo and printed on sticker paper – it made this a million times easier. If you want the cut files already to go, they are included in the files in my Etsy shop.

STEP #3: ADHERE THE ACTIVE JENGA GAME PROMPTS ON THE BLOCKS

• If you used sticker paper, just peel and stick one label on each block. Easy Peasy.

  
  If you used standard paper, glue one game prompt label on each block. A thin strip of glue on all 4 edges of the blank side of each label will give the best results. Smooth out the label with your fingers and let the glue dry completely. This part isn’t hard, but it does take a little time. 

* PRO TIP: You just need a thin strip of glue. Don’t use a lot or your labels will wrinkle.

* PRO TIP: Clean up any glue that seeps from under the edges of the labels with a damp cloth or paper towel before it dries. 

* PRO TIP: If any of your corners come unglued, secure them back down with a little bit of glue stick or white glue.

ACTIVE JENGA GAME FOR KIDS: A GAME FOR ALL AGES!

In just 3 steps and an afternoon, you’ll be ready to whip out an awesome activity the whole family will love. Use it when you need a minute, when the kids are getting a bit too crazy, or for family game night! Active Jenga for Kids is the PERFECT simple, inexpensive, fun and easy way to help the kids channel all that energy into some fun memories. So, what are you waiting for? Put this together in a snap and get those kids who are jumping on the beds to come play this fun game!

MAKE THIS PROJECT EASIER WITH MY READY-TO-PRINT ACTIVE JENGA GAME BLOCK LABELS IN MY ETSY SHOP!

Like this idea? Want to spice things up for your next date night? Check out my Couple’s Jenga bedroom game for a more adult version of this game.

The post Active Jenga for Kids appeared first on While He Was Napping.

However, my very extrovert husband misses walking out the front door on a regular basis. I know many, many people can relate. He is thankful for this list because it helps keep his boredom at bay and the kids from climbing the walls. This is pretty accurate to how things are going over here. Also, I’m watching a lot of Frozen lately, so it seems extra appropriate:

THERE IS GOOD IN THE WORLD. AND THEY ARE SHARING THEIR RESOURCES FOR FAMILIES.

I have absolutely loved how humanity has stepped up to help, encourage and support each other. As companies have been extending discounts, free trials, and even giving opening their services to the rest of us for free so many of my amazing friends have been sharing and posting links to these wonderful things. I have been hoarding these things we can do during this crazy, uncharted time worse than toilet paper. Thank you, thank you, thank you, my friends. Please don’t stop!!

(Also, we aren’t really hoarding toilet paper. We just have a lot of bums to clean around here.)

I want to share all these wonderful resources for families that I’ve collected all in one place with every single person who could use them. Because I know that every time I’ve seen a new one, I feel a small wave of relief that my kids won’t have to play plants vs zombies all day for entertainment, a wave of hope that I won’t go crazy with nothing to do in our house with the same 7 people for … however long this lasts. A wave of gratitude and pride for all the awesome humans on Earth. 

I hope it makes it easier to find something that can help you and your family navigate this uncertain time a little more easily. I know I don’t have a lot of extra time to sit combing through Facebook posts, searching for “that link I saw”.

I’ve tried to verify most of these for quality, but things are changing fast. I will be updating this list as I can. If you have any problems, you can let me know and I’ll update it.

CLICK TO FIND THE FULL LIST HERE AS A PRINTABLE GOOGLE DOC FILE.

THESE RESOURCES FOR FAMILIES ARE PERFECT FOR NEWLY HOMESCHOOLING, WORKING FROM HOME, OVERWHELMED PARENTS

The post Online Educational Resources for Families appeared first on While He Was Napping.

Oh, date night. Having date night is the best. Planning date night, not so much. But, relationships take work and skipping date night isn’t the best long game solution. Cue up the at home date! Add a fun game and date night is exciting again. And this Couples Jenga Game is PERFECT. Simple, inexpensive, fun and intimate. Just what date night should be!

AT HOME DATE: COUPLE’S JENGA GAME

COUPLE’S JENGA – AN AT HOME DATE NIGHT GAME THAT WILL HELP YOU DEEPEN YOUR RELATIONSHIP

Life gets busy. Date nights and alone time are often sporadic. I love my kids and they make our family complete; but, I also treasure the relationship I have with their dad, my husband.

The young adults from years ago who were still discovering the world, themselves and each other are still here. It can be hard to find that woman sometimes in the mess of responsibilities and obligations she has now.

This Couples Jenga Game is perfect for rediscovering the excitement in your relationship. Reminisce and even learn new things about your sweetie while having fun together!

COUPLES JENGA IS THE PERFECT DATE NIGHT GAME FOR COUPLES LOOKING TO GET AWAY FOR A BIT

As nice as it would be to run off for the weekend, that’s not really an option, right? If you’re looking for a way to escape all the responsibilities and stress for a little while, this Couples Jenga date night is perfect! Are you: 

• stressed out?
• tired of people wanting things from you all day?
• looking to relax a bit?
• a board or card game enthusiast?
• on a budget?
• wanting a different kind of date night?

If any of those were yes answers, you need a Couples Jenga Date Night! 

3 SUPER EASY STEPS TO MAKE YOUR COUPLES JENGA GAME

Truth bomb. Ready? The hardest part of this project is coming up with ideas of what to write on each block. But, there is a silver lining. Two, actually.

One: I made a set of 60 questions and activities that are ready to print. If you want an easy peasy project, you can find those in my Etsy Shop. There’s even an editable PDF file to help you customize your game as simply as possible.

Two: You can make this game as sweet or saucy as you want. I included a mix of naughty and nice, but you can do whatever would benefit your relationship most.

Okay, let’s do this!

COUPLES JENGA GAME MATERIALS:

• Jenga Block Template – Download this from the button below. If you want the Editable PDF template or the Ready-to-Print labels, get them in my Etsy shop.
• Jenga Game – Get it on Amazon. You can find knock off versions and they will work (I used a knock off version), but the quality isn’t as good and the blocks may not line well.
• Paper and Printer – I recommend standard printing paper* and a laser printer. Ink jet will work too.
• Paper Cutter or Scissors – love my Swingline SmartCut. I used both it and a pair of scissors.
• Glue – wood, white glue or tacky glue will work best. I used white glue.
• Pen or Marker or image editing software – If you’re going to write the questions and activities by hand, I recommend Sharpie Art Pens. The ink is smooth, doesn’t bleed and won’t smear if it gets wet. You can also open the Jenga Block Templates in an image editor and type out your questions and activities before you print.

* Make this project even easier by printing on sticker paper instead. Forget the glue, just peel and stick!

STEP #1: DOWNLOAD AND PRINT YOUR JENGA BLOCK TEMPLATES

• Download the free printable templates with the green button below. Save the file to your computer and print with the “actual size” setting. This file is designed to fit a name brand Jenga block, but will work on other blocks too. You will need 2 copies of the template to cover an entire set of Jenga blocks.

* PRO TIP: If you’re going to fill in your block template digitally (on the computer), do it BEFORE you print your template.

* PRO TIP: Check your game for a count of how many blocks you’ll need to cover. Name brand Jenga has 54 blocks. My knock-off set had fewer. Each template page has 30 rectangle labels. You’ll need 2 pages (give or take a few) to cover an entire game set.

STEP #2: FILL OUT AND CUT OUT THE BLOCK TEMPLATES

• If you are writing your game prompts out by hand, write one question or activity on each rectangle. You can make these questions and activities as sweet and sentimental or as saucy and sexy as you would like. I did a combination of both sweet and saucy. 
• Cut out enough labels to cover every block. I used both my paper cutter and a pair of scissors.

STEP #3: GLUE THE COUPLES JENGA GAME PROMPTS ON THE BLOCKS

• Glue one game prompt label on each block. A thin strip of glue on all 4 edges of the blank side of each label will give the best results. Smooth out the label with your fingers and let the glue dry completely. This part isn’t hard, but it does take a little time. 

* PRO TIP: You just need a thin strip of glue. Don’t use a lot or your labels will wrinkle.

* PRO TIP: Clean up any glue that seeps from under the edges of the labels with a damp cloth or paper towel before it dries. 

* PRO TIP: If any of your corners come unglued, secure them back down with a little bit of glue stick or white glue.

COUPLES JENGA: AN AT HOME DATE NIGHT THAT WILL REKINDLE YOUR FIRE!

In just 3 steps and an afternoon, you’ll be ready to light some fireworks on your next date night. Couples Jenga is the PERFECT simple, inexpensive, fun and intimate night you’ve been wanting. So, what are you waiting for? Light those fires, check out of reality for a couple hours and enjoy an evening with your favorite sweetie!

MAKE THIS PROJECT EASIER WITH READY-TO-PRINT COUPLES JENGA BLOCK LABELS!

The post Couples Jenga: The Perfect At Home Date Night Game appeared first on While He Was Napping.

Give those kids something they really want and that will last forever – and you’ll love it too! Give them some of your time and make some fun memories with them. Because, what kid wouldn’t want a special date or activity and to be the center of your attention? Carve out some special time for your favorite activities together with these printable Kids Love Coupons.

KIDS LOVE COUPONS: A MORE MEANINGFUL GIFT

As a mom of 4, I know all too well what it’s like when kids have plenty of stuff. Mine definitely don’t need more toys and things to leave on the floor. Because of this, I try to give my kids meaningful and worthwhile gifts. And, as a busy mom, time is one of the most precious things. I would much rather spend more time doing fun things with my kids than picking up more toys.

And I love that these kids coupons are perfect for every budget. The actual coupons cost some ink and paper. The outing redeemed with the coupon can be as expensive or frugal as you want or need it to be. My kids get just as excited about going to the park as they do about going to the movies.

They don’t need fancy, they just need you.

Things come and go. Toys break. Fun and memories can last forever.

KIDS LOVE COUPONS: THE PERFECT GIFT ANYONE CAN GIVE ANYTIME

These Kids Love Coupons are a perfect gift to receive from anyone. What kid wouldn’t love to get some fun dates and special activities from one of their favorite people? Anyone can give someone their time: Parents to children, grandparents to grandchildren, favorite aunt or uncle to niece or nephew, even friend to friend.

And Kids Love Coupons are great for lots of occasions:

• holidays
• birthdays
• big life events
• as rewards for accomplishments and exceptional behavior

It can be hard to juggle life’s demands. Love coupons are one way we help ensure our kids get some quality one-on-one time. If they need some extra attention, they redeem a coupon. It’s a great non-confrontational or mom-guilt-inducing way for them to say “hey, I need a little extra right now.”

MAKING YOUR OWN KIDS LOVE COUPONS BOOK IS AS EASY AS 1-2-3

A good homemade gift is the best. But life is busy and there aren’t always hours to spend putting together something for every gift that comes along. This kids love coupons book is simple, quick and will look great when you’re finished.

With just a handful of materials you probably have already and a half an hour, you will be ready to hand your favorite kid some memory-making magic in the form of 9 awesome things to do with you.

KIDS LOVE COUPONS SUPPLIES:

• Kids Love Coupons – free download below. There is a full set of 28 ready-to-print coupons, plus editable files to easily create your own custom coupons in my Etsy shop, if you want a larger set of coupons.
• Printer and Paper – I recommend cardstock
• Paper Cutter or Scissors
• Washi Tape or Ribbon and Hole Punch
• Craft Knife (optional)

KIDS LOVE COUPONS DIRECTIONS:

1. DOWNLOAD AND PRINT YOUR COUPONS

Step #1a: Download your free printable coupons by clicking on the green “Click to Download” button below. Save the file to your computer.

Step #1b: *If you upgraded to the full set of coupons in my Etsy shop, make sure you personalize the cover and fill in any of your own special coupons before you print! Follow the directions on the Printing Guide.*

Print your coupons. This file is designed to print at “actual size” on 8.5″x11″ paper. I recommend printing on cardstock for added durability. Personally, I use THIS CARDSTOCK for most of my projects. I prefer a 110 lb weight and a brightness of at least 90.

This file is intended to be printed on a single piece of paper. If your printer has the option to print double sided, use it and flip on the long edge. If your printer does not print double sided, you will have to manually flip the page and put in back in the printer before printing the 2nd page.

PRO TIP: When manually printing double sided, I put a little ‘x’ in pencil at the bottom left corner of the page before I print anything so I know how to put the page back in the printer when I print on the back side. The ‘x’ will need to be at the same end of the printer, facing down when you put the page back in.

2. CUT APART YOUR KIDS LOVE COUPONS

Step #2a: Cut the coupons apart. I love my Swingline SmartCut paper cutter for this stuff. Makes cutting straight lines a breeze and so, so fast. And I love that the blade is fully enclosed with all the little fingers around my house.

PRO TIP: Your coupons may not have printed perfectly straight on the page. Make sure you check the edges of the coupons on your cutting line before you cut so your coupons don’t get cut crooked.

You could also use a ruler and craft knife or scissors to cut the coupons apart.

3. BIND YOUR KIDS LOVE COUPONS BOOK TOGETHER

Step #3a: Gather your coupons together and arrange them in the order you want them. Line up all the edges on the side you’re going to bind. The easiest way to do this is to hold the coupons loosely in your hand and knock the side you’re going to bind against the table a few times.

Step #3b: Cut a piece of washi tape a little longer than the length of the edge you’re going to bind. It doesn’t need to be precise, the tape just needs to cover the entire length of the edge. Place the tape on the edges of the coupons, pressing firmly. Wrap the excess tape around the front and back of the coupon book. Press each coupon firmly into the washi tape binding. Use your craft knife or scissors to trim the ends.

PRO TIP: If your coupons aren’t sticking to the washi tape and staying in the book, put a thin zigzag of white glue across the full length of your washi tape. Because washi tape isn’t a permanent tape, some kinds won’t be sticky enough to hold the coupons in place. A small line of white glue should help with that, without making the coupons hard to remove from the book.

That’s it! You’re ready to wrap and give those love coupons to your favorite kid. And get ready for some awesome good times and memory making!

GIVE YOUR FAVORITE KIDS A GIFT THAT WILL LAST THROUGH THE YEARS: KIDS LOVE COUPONS

Theodor Seuss Geisel, maybe you know him better as Dr. Seuss, said “Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory.”

It might seem like building a fort or going to the library isn’t a big deal, but when your kids look back on their childhoods they will remember the people and the fun. They will remember the forts and the story times. They won’t remember the things.

Go make your favorite kids their very own Kid’s Love Coupons Book and give them something to remember. 

Want to expand your Kids Love Coupons collection? Check out my Etsy Shop for the full set of 28 ready-to-print coupons and an editable file that will help you make your own personalized, custom coupons in just minutes!

The post Kids Love Coupons are a DIY Gift That Will Last Forever appeared first on While He Was Napping.

In just 8 super easy steps and an afternoon, you’ll create a one-of-a-kind set of DIY scratch off cards that will add a little fun and mystery to date night. They are perfect for romantic gifts or just for a little change of pace.

DIY SCRATCH OFF CARDS: SPICE UP DATE NIGHT WITH A LITTLE FUN AND MYSTERY

The best part about these DIY scratch off cards are that you can customize them to fit your needs. If date night has become predictable and lost it’s excitement, then something like a Date Night Lotto card would liven things up! Scratch off a square and you have a great date idea without adding a ton of stress or prep to date nights!

Or maybe you’re looking for a way to reconnect with your sweetie or to spice things up in the bedroom a bit? Then a set of Lover’s Lotto or Spicy Lover’s Lotto cards might fill your needs best. Scratch off one of those squares and forget your boring, old routine! Right at your finger tips is a great new romantic idea to fill your evening!

And I’ll give you the blank templates in just a minute! Doesn’t get much easier than that!

(But, if you do want it to get easier, I have pre-filled, ready-to-print cards as well as an editable PDF you can just plug your own ideas into in my Etsy Shop.)

ARE DIY SCRATCH OFF CARDS YOUR KIND OF PROJECT?

This project is pretty simple, but it’s not for everyone. So, how do you know if it’s the kind of thing you’re looking for? Who is this post written for? What demographics will benefit from this information? Make an emotional connection and hit a pain point.

• Do you enjoy a good, simple DIY project?
• Are you looking for a way to liven up your love life?
• Do you need a romantic gift idea that doesn’t cost a lot, doesn’t take a ton of time to put together and is something your gift receiver will love?
• Are you trying to stick to a budget?

If you said yes to those – or any combination of those – then this project is exactly what you’re looking for.

However, if you’re looking for something RIGHT NOW or don’t like DIY projects this might not be what you’re looking for. (My printable Date Night Jar or printable Truth or Dare: Couple’s Edition bedroom card game might fit your needs better right now. They are literally print and cut and done.)

HOW TO MAKE DIY SCRATCH OFF LOTTO CARDS

With just a few simple supplies and an afternoon, you’ll have custom DIY scratch off cards perfect for your needs. A quick print job, some trimming and laminating, and a splash of paint is all you need to get one step closer to a spicier love life.

And don’t worry, most of the project time is waiting for the paint to dry. While it will take a few hours for your DIY scratch off cards to be all ready to go, you don’t need to carve out a whole afternoon to spend slaving away.

DIY SCRATCH OFF CARD SUPPLIES:

• Blank scratch off card templates – Print your free blank templates HERE or you can grab all the pre-filled, ready-to-print cards and the editable PDF files to fill in yourself RIGHT HERE)
• Printer and Paper
• Scissors or paper cutter
• Clear contact paper, cold laminating pouches or a thermal laminator and thermal pouches (I absolutely LOVE this thermal laminator starter kit – works great and totally affordable. I have the older model and it still works like a charm.)
• Acrylic paint and paintbrush – any color will work, but a metallic paint will look most like a typical scratch off card. Follow your colorful heart, there is no wrong choice.
• Paint palette or something to mix your paint on
• Dish soap – the kind you hand wash dishes with, not the kind you put in the dishwasher.
• Skinny 3mm washi tape – optional

PRINT & FILL IN YOUR DIY SCRATCH OFF TEMPLATES

Step #1: Download and print your blank lotto card templates. I recommend printing with a laser printer and on card stock for durability. Ink jet and regular paper will work just fine though.

*If you choose to grab my editable PDF files from my Etsy shop, you’ll want to fill those in before you print them.

Step #2: Fill in the blank templates with a pen or marker. Leave some space around your writing to make sure it won’t stick out from under the paint when you cover them up. You don’t need to leave a lot of space, but try not to write all the way to the borders of the boxes.

COVER AND CUT YOUR DIY SCRATCH OFF CARDS

*If you use laminating pouches or a thermal laminator, you will want to switch steps #3 and #4. Cut the cards apart first and then laminate each individual card. After each card is laminated, cut it apart and trim the cards, if desired.*

Step #3: Cover the front of your lotto card templates with the clear contact paper. You can cover the back too, if you want, but it’s not necessary. This cover will help protect the cards and is how the paint will scratch off your DIY scratch off cards.

Step #4: After the contact paper is on the cards, cut the cards apart. The files are formatted to cut an 8.5″x11″ paper into quarters. You absolutely can cut the cards smaller though. I did trim mine smaller for neater edges and smaller margins.

PREPARE YOUR DIY SCRATCH OFF CARDS FOR PAINTING

Step #5: If you choose, mask off the edges of the cards. 3mm washi tape is perfect for this! Just put a line of tape on all the grid lines on the card. It’ll keep your paint lines nicer. Repeat with each card.

Step #6: Mix your acrylic paint and dish soap with an approximate 2:1 ratio – 2 parts paint, 1 part dish soap. It’s not rocket science and you don’t have to have precise measurements for this to work, so don’t stress over it.

PAINTING YOUR DIY SCRATCH OFF CARDS

Step #7: Apply a thin layer of paint over the words on your card. Let the paint dry thoroughly.

Step #8: Repeat step #7 until you can no longer see the text through the paint. Depending on what color paint you use, you may need 3-5 coats. Let dry overnight once you can no longer see text through the paint layers.

That’s it, your ready to spice things up!

DIY SCRATCH OFF CARD TIPS & TRICKS

** A laser printer will keep your ink from smudging, should the cards get wet. Using laminating pouches will also accomplish this. An ink jet printer will work just fine, just be cautious not to get the cards wet if you don’t laminate them with pouches.

** Skinny 3mm washi tape is perfect for masking off your grid lines while you paint, however it is NOT a necessity. It will keep your paint lines neater, make painting easier, and make your cards look better overall, but free-handing the painting process is definitely an option and will save some time if you don’t have to mask off your grid lines. You could also cut down and use masking tape or scotch tape, if you prefer.

** Use fresh paint. By that, I mean not paint you’ve had in a cupboard for a few years… As you can see in that last photo, I started using silver paint. But it was old. It was clumpy and kept separating and didn’t mix well with the dish soap, so I ditched it for the red and pink paints. Newer, non-clumpy paint will give you a much better result with far fewer coats of paint.

** The painting and waiting to dry process is the longest part of this project, but it will turn out so much better if you do thin layers rather than a thick, globby one. You can use a blow dryer on low heat, low air flow to speed this process up.

** If all this masking off and painting thing is more than you want to deal with, you can use scratch off stickers to cover your date ideas instead. Take this cute idea and simplify! Find scratch off stickers on Etsy or on Amazon.

Got more questions? You’re always welcome to leave a comment or shoot me a message!

READY TO MAKE SOME DIY SCRATCH OFF CARDS AND SPICE UP YOUR LOVE LIFE?

In just an afternoon you can spice up date night and add some fun and mystery to your romantic life. This project is simple and fun. It’s a great romantic gift idea that is customizable to fit your exact needs. And who wouldn’t love to get some DIY Scratch Off Cards like these?!

Turn on some mood music, grab a coin and start scratching off those fun ideas!

If you want more romantic gift and date night ideas, check out the Date Night Jar (or HERE is a printable version!)

The post DIY Scratch Off Cards that will Spice Up Date Night appeared first on While He Was Napping.

RECONNECT WITHOUT LEAVING HOME

Life gets crazy sometimes, am I right? I’m a huge believer in “date night”, but I’ve honestly don’t remember the last time I went on an actual date with my husband. Between work, kids, church, chores, errands and all the other things that make up life it can be hard to fit everything in. And, if your budget is tight, it can complicate things in a whole new way. Finding a sitter for starters, right?

But, reconnecting with your dream boat doesn’t have to cost a lot. And it doesn’t have to take a lot of time either! You probably have all the things you need to put together a spa date night and massage kit already. And, trust me, you’ll both be thankful for the pampering and quality time. And you don’t even have to leave home.

IS A SPA DATE NIGHT WORTH IT?

A spa day with lots of fancy treatments sounds nice, but the small detail of wandering around in nothing but a robe with strangers touching me gives me second thoughts. And spas are expensive. But, I can get behind doing that with, and for, my husband. Especially if it doesn’t cost a week’s paycheck.

Is an at home spa night something you’d enjoy? Are you:

• looking for a romantic gift idea for the sweetie in your life?
• in need of a special date night that won’t mess up the budget?
• wanting to reconnect with your sweetheart without leaving home?

Then YES! This is the perfect date for you! Because it’s simple to organize, easy to do, it doesn’t cost a lot and you don’t need a sitter for the kids. Quality time to pamper and reconnect with your special sweetie. Who wouldn’t want that? 

THE PERFECT GIFT: AN AT HOME SPA DATE NIGHT AS A GIFT

An at home spa date night makes a great gift. A massage kit with some great coupons (who doesn’t love to cash in a coupon?) and some massage basics are the perfect tangible gift. Pair it with a scheduled night to get to use those coupons and the goodies in the kit, and you’ve got a romantic gift you’ll both look forward to using!

CREATE THE PERFECT AT HOME SPA DATE NIGHT

Whether you decide to give the spa kit and massage coupons as a gift and do the date night later or whether you choose to plan a whole special spa date night, just remember to focus on your sweetheart. Relax, reconnect and rejuvenate each other because that’s what this whole thing is about!

WHAT TO INCLUDE IN YOUR SPA DATE NIGHT KIT:

• Massage Coupons your sweetie will love. You can grab the coupons I used in my massage kit from my Etsy shop. There’s even an editable PDF file you can use to create your own coupons super easy.
• Comfy bath robes (my favorite women’s robe | my favorite men’s robe)
• Favorite body butter or body lotion (my favorite hand repair cream and it smells like cake!)
• Favorite massage oil or personal lubricant (I personally prefer lube and recommend this brand of lubricant. It’s smooth, not greasy and safe for all body parts, if things get carried away during your massages…)
• Favorite sparkling beverage and chocolates
• Relaxing music – I like this Spotify playlist
• Smooth stones. You can get a small bag of decorative stones at Dollar Tree and they work great so grab a bag of those next time you’re there!
• Rice bag or heating pad to warm up your stones or relax tense muscles.
• Massage tools – this is totally optional and definitely not a must-have for a successful evening.
• Favorite bath salts or bath bombs or make your own (My DIY Bath and Body Recipes Pinterest Board has some great ideas so come check those out and follow me while you’re there!)
• Favorite bubble bath

GATHERING TOGETHER YOUR SPA DATE NIGHT KIT

Step #1 – Make any DIY products if you’re going to do that. Or rummage through your body care 

stash and see what you can use that you already have because free is the best price, right? But, if you need to make any purchases, now is the time to do it. Just remember, simplicity is good too. This is all about your time together!

DESIGNING YOUR MASSAGE COUPONS

Step #2 – Make your massage coupons. While you definitely don’t HAVE to include any coupons, it would be fun to know that this isn’t necessarily a one-time deal. My husband and I have a deal that once one of us redeems the coupon I used Photoshop but you can make them with whatever you’d like. Open your favorite word processing program, image editing software or go old-school and grab some paper and pens.

Some ideas for your coupons:

• scalp and neck massage
• back massage
• foot massage (with or without a hot water soak)
• hot stone massage (if you do this one, keep it safe. We use a small rice bag heated in the microwave and sandwiched over our rocks for a couple minutes to warm them.  This is perfect because we can easily keep and eye on them and make sure they aren’t too hot. And, remember, different parts of the body have different heat sensitivities.)
• hydro-massage (hot shower or tub, especially nice if you have a shower head with a wand and adjustable pressure settings)
• full body massage

If you don’t want to bother with making your own, don’t forget you can get a copy of the massage coupons I designed in my Etsy Shop, along with the editable PDF file that will let you design your own really quick.

I also included an “exclusive members” coupon that pulls out all the big spa-like treatments.  Hot soak in a bubble bath with bubbly beverage, full body massage with lotions and oils, facial, his choice of other massage technique. Something super special for after a rough day… or week.

YOUR SPA DATE NIGHT KIT IS ALMOST READY TO GO!

Step #3 – Gather your massage goodies and put them in a basket or other container so everything is together and neat.

If you’re going to give them as a gift, you can dress them up fancy with a bow. If you’re going to use them as a date night, you can just use the basket so everything is in one place.

Cue up your music, put your bubbly beverage on ice (or in the fridge) and let the romancin’ begin!

A NIGHT TO RELAX, RECONNECT AND REJUVENATE WITH YOUR SWEETHEART 

Remember, it doesn’t have to be a crazy grand gesture that takes a lot of time and planning and supplies. Your at home spa date night should be about reconnecting with your dream boat so .

Keep it simple. Make sure you reciprocate equally. And enjoy each other.

Relax. Reconnect. Rejuvenate. And you don’t even have to leave home.

CHECK OUT MORE DATE NIGHT IDEAS TO KEEP THE ROMANCE ALIVE, EVEN WHEN LIFE GETS CRAZY!

The post Spa Date Night and Massage Kit for an Awesome At Home Date appeared first on While He Was Napping.

Or we’re a little too tired and it’s not quite nap or bed time yet. Or when things get a little too wrestle-y. Because… boys.

It saved my bacon more than once last summer.

I have plans this summer and our kids activities jar has a starring role in my attack on unruly boys. I divided the activities into seven categories.

If you’re looking for some fun things to do this summer, take a look at this huge list and then make your own Summer Boredom Buster Jar with the ideas.

168 KIDS ACTIVITIES TO TRY THIS SUMMER

FUN WITH FOOD KIDS ACTIVITIES:

– Make popsicles.  Get as creative as you little heart desires.
– Banana Boats in the fire pit.  Don’t know what banana boats are, check out the link.
– Make ice cream in a bag
– Fruit Loop necklaces
– Make peanut butter play dough
– Make S’mores

– Decorate cupcakes
– Make colorful cookies
– Create a new smoothie flavor
– Make Jell-O
– Build with marshmallows
– Make popcorn necklaces
– Create the ultimate ice cream sundae!
– Edible finger painting

– Make slushies
– Make Jell-O play dough
– Roast hot dogs over a fire
– Make candy bars
– Make a banana split

QUIET TIME KIDS ACTIVITIES:

– Story stones or tiles
– Write letters
– Felt fishing game math practice
– Googly eye drawings
– Write in your story journal
– Movie Marathon!
– Illustrate a picture book
– Get a new ebook or learning app – Our favorite ABC apps, preschool apps

– Play with blocks.  Creation Blocks, Tinkertoys, Cardboard Blocks and our Wooden Blocks are time-tested favorites.

– Do a practice worksheet.
– Play with Water Beads
– Do puzzles
– M&M math practice.  Add and subtract with the candies.  You can also practice colors.  Of course, you’re finished when you’ve eaten all the candies.
– Draw with the Window Markers
– Play learning games on the tablet
– Make a straw bead necklace
– Build with sponge building blocks – cut several sponges into strips and stack them
– Read stories with Mom
– ABC match game
– Practice with the lacing cards

OUTSIDE KIDS ACTIVITIES:

– Make a fun obstacle course with PVC pipe sprinklers
– Water gun tin can target practice
– Water balloon towel toss
– Garden for letters: dig & spell
– Target sponge toss
– Have a picnic on the swing
– Go on a walk
– Have a bike wash.  A car wash… for bikes.
– Make mud pies
– Create a water wall with plastic bottles
– Water balloon pinata
– Create a tin foil river.  Float paper boats in them.
– Water balloon fight!
– Blow bubbles
– Go on a nature scavenger hunt
– Ride bikes

– Sand box treasure hunt
– Create a chalk maze
– Ice boat races
– Sponge water fight
– Play in the pool
– Ice block toy rescue
– Play in the sprinklers
– Draw with chalk on the sidewalk

ENERGY BURNING KIDS ACTIVITIES:

– Glow balloon ping pong
– Paper plate ring toss

– Masking tape bean bag toss (or paper plate toss)
– Sing songs!
– Dinosaur fossil hunt
– Super chore race!
– Masking tape maze
– Paper plate frisbee

– Make a mini golf course
– Dance Party!
– Duck, duck, goose
– Go on a treasure hunt
– Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes
– Build an obstacle course
– Put on a circus
– Nerf gun wars
– Glow in the dark bowling

THINGS TO MAKE KIDS ACTIVITIES:

– Make a wind chime
– Construct a city for your cars from cardboard boxes
– Paper Airplane Races
– Make Olliblocks

– Make a rain stick
– Make DIY paint with water pages
– Tin can telephones
– Make a musical instrument
– Make a lemonade stand
– Bow & Arrow practice.  Not a real bow an arrow.  There’s lots of fun ideas for DIY toys.
– Make sugar cube castles
– Q-tip painting.
– Make an I Love You chain
– Make a shoe box shape sorter for a baby
– Draw a treasure map!
– Make a marble maze
– Make pet rocks
– Masking tape city and roads
– Trace around your body and make a “Flat Me”
– Make toilet paper tube race cars

– Use old crayons and make sun catchers
– Make straw rockets
– Masking tape maze
– Macaroni noodle necklace
– Make constellation cans
– Make slime!
– Use popsicle sticks to make puppets.  Have a puppet show.
– Make shadow box piggy banks
– Make Gak

– Cardboard box cars
– Paint rocks for the garden
– Salt painting
– Make paper
– Build something with a box
– Corn syrup paintings
– Make paper dolls

THINGS TO DO KIDS ACTIVITIES:

– Go on a monster hunt
– Learn some words in a new language
– Mess-free finger painting
– Make “potions”
– Play with letter magnets (these are my favorite, though kinda pricey)
– Build a fort!
– Clean something

– Play with the felt fishing game
– Have a science day
– Dress Up!
– Bathtub fishing
– Balloon Rocket Races
– Shaving cream bath tub painting
– String maze
– Photo booth
– ABC scavenger hunt
– Play with the Gizmos
– Play with the Pattern Blocks
– Make a life-size board game.
– Pajama Day!
– Take photos for an ABC book

– Do a science experiment
– Ivory soap clouds
– Write invisible letters and mail them
– Stay/day-cation
– Play with Legos
– Make and play with a sensory bin
– Camp out in the family room
– Act out a story
– Play on the Wii
– Make shadow puppets
– Play a board game. Junior Suspend is one of our favorites!

FAMILY ACTIVITIES (this is great for weekends!):

– Make pretzels
– Movie night on the big screen
– Go bowling!
– Launch rockets
– Have a fire and star gaze
– Go to the drive-in
– Go to the marina or river park.
– See a movie at the theater
– Go to the Discovery Museum

– Have a popcorn bar!
– Play in the fountains
– Fly a kite
– Star gazing
– Go to the library
– Camping
– Go to the beach
– Go to Sonic!
– Get ice cream
– Go to the splash pad

You can check out some of our favorite summer products on Amazon. These are all things we own and love and can’t live without when the days are long, the air is hot and the sky is sunny!

What’s your favorite summer time kids activities? I’m always looking to add to our collection.  Leave a comment and let me know!

The post 168 Kids Activities that will Rock Your Summer appeared first on While He Was Napping.

GIFTS FOR KIDS THAT MOM AND DAD WON’T HATE

GIFTS FOR KIDS THAT MOM AND DAD WON’T HATE #1: LEGO BRICKS

Lego Bricks. While there’s definitely an appeal to the cool sets (we own so many Star Wars sets, I’ve lost count), I like the basic standard bricks too. We started our collection with the LEGO classic medium box and it served us well for many years. We still play with this set of classic blocks often. It’s perfect for building houses, vehicles, and more!

GIFTS FOR KIDS THAT MOM AND DAD WON’T HATE #2: GIZMO GEARS

Gizmo Gears. We got this set back in 2012. They have been through all of my kids and are still holding up. There have been a few casualties, but the majority are still in great shape. My 8-year-old doesn’t play with these as much any more, but he’ll still sit down with his brothers and build for a while. My 5-year-old enjoys pulling them out and my 3-year-old is obsessed. They snap together relatively easily, but little hands might need some help.

GIFTS FOR KIDS THAT MOM AND DAD WON’T HATE #3: SNAP CIRCUITS

Snap Circuits. These are great for a little bit older kids. My 8-year-old LOVES them and making different contraptions, including a radio. My 5-year-old doesn’t quite understand the science behind it. While he likes to snap the pieces together, he gets frustrated when nothing happens because the pieces aren’t put together correctly. This is perfect for teaching the basic laws of conductivity and electric currents.We bought the larger set because I knew my science-loving boy would grow with this set. They do have a smaller Snap Circuit set, if you want to try them out first before you shell out for the big one. However, the big one is TOTALLY worth it!

GIFTS FOR KIDS THAT MOM AND DAD WON’T HATE #4: TOY CARS

Toy Cars. My kids have all loved to play with cars. For hours. Sometimes they like to play with a car mat, but you can almost always find a few cars in our diaper bag… and there might even be one or two in my purse. The chunky cars with big wheels are perfect for little hands and we have more die-cast cars than I can count. These Blaze and the Monster Machine cars are a big hit with my boys, especially the younger ones.  And I really love the variety of vehicles available in die-cast cars. This Matchbox set has lots of cool options to play with.

GIFTS FOR KIDS THAT MOM AND DAD WON’T HATE #5: WOODEN TRAIN SET

Wooden Train Sets. We have been building our wooden train set collection since my 8-year-old was born. We scored some at garage sales, were gifted some, have found great deals and our collection has just kept on growing. It’s one of the first toys that come out when we have play dates and everyone loves to play. This is one I like to play with my kids. We work together to build amazing tracks.This set of tracks is a great starter kit and these train cars are fun, brightly colored and will fit with any future wooden train toys you decide to acquire. This is a toy that all my kids like to play with, despite their age differences and has grown with my kids.

GIFTS FOR KIDS THAT MOM AND DAD WON’T HATE #6: MAGNETIC TILES OR BLOCKS

Magnetic Tiles or Blocks. We got a set of the real-deal Magformers a couple years ago for Christmas and my boys LOVED them. I got a few more to supplement their stash this past summer when I knew they would all be playing with them at the same time, but this time I tried a knock-off brand of magnet tiles and they fit in well with our brand-name tiles. There is a slight size difference, but all the tiles still line up and stick together. We will be adding more tiles to our collection yet again this Christmas and Santas is going to throw in these cool train car bases as a little bonus. All of my kids still play with these usually 2-3 times a week, even though they’ve been around a few years. Those are the toys I find worth having!

GIFTS FOR KIDS THAT MOM AND DAD WON’T HATE #7: BOARD AND CARD GAMES

Board and Card games. We love a good game night, but it can be hard to find games the whole family enjoys playing together. My mom gifted my oldest with Grabolo this past year and we just love it. All of us really legitimately enjoy playing this game together. It’s fast action, it’s all about observation, reaction time and memory. But, the rules and game play are simple enough for my littlest kids (3 and 5 years), even though the box says 6+ years.

We also really like Suspend – there’s also a Junior edition that has plastic sticks instead of metal ones. I like the durability of the metal ones, but I’ll admit the sticks have tried to become swords in our home. Both games are a blast and I recommend them both. Rack-O is another family favorite that we have recently been playing with our boys. The two little boys (ages 3.5 and 5.5) play on a team with mom or dad and our 8-year-old can play on his own, with minimal help. This has been perfect for helping my kindergartner practice his numbers to 100.

GIFTS FOR KIDS THAT MOM AND DAD WON’T HATE #8: ACTIVITY TUNNEL

Activity Tunnel. I got one of these for my kids a few years ago and they still play with it. It’s is great shape, considering how my boys play with it. It wasn’t super expensive so I didn’t have to worry about it getting ruined. It’s been used as a hiding spot in Hide-&-Seek, as a tunnel to play with cars in, as part of countless obstacle courses and even as “secret play place” – that was the easiest “fort” I have ever set up! We have one very similar to this Doug & Melissa caterpillar version – the exact one we have isn’t on Amazon anymore and is an off-brand. All of our other Doug & Melissa toys have held up well and this tunnel reviews great. These activity tunnels provide a contained outlet for some of the crazy energy they always have, can be played with indoors and folds up super compact for storage.

GIFTS FOR KIDS THAT MOM AND DAD WON’T HATE #9: SMALL SLIDE

Small Slide. A small slide offers the same pro of helping the kids constructively use all that pent-up energy when it’s too cold to play outside. Ours is used mostly indoors and comes out to play when my kids are good helpers and clean up our family room or when they are jumping off my furniture and clearly need a better outlet for their energy. Even though my oldest has outgrownn this slide, he still enjoys playing with it. And, it makes a really cool ramp for cars… and stuffed animals too. This little slide is great for younger toddlers (1-3 years).

There is a big kid version if you are hoping for something a little taller for your kiddo to grow into. This one fits older toddlers and preschoolers well. I really like the size and compactness of the little one, but my kids love playing on their cousins’ larger slide too, when we visit. And I like that our small one is less distance to the ground if (and by if, I mean when) my kids fall.

GIFTS FOR KIDS THAT MOM AND DAD WON’T HATE #10: DRESS-UP CLOTHES

Dress-Up Clothes. Dress up clothes are definitely NOT just for girls. We have a huge bin full of dress up and it’s one of my boys go-to activities. It often gets pulled out when their friends come over too. Dress up offers so much room for imaginative play! I love that. Most of our dress up collection from old Halloween costumes; but, a couple years ago, our kids received Star Wars costumes (Jedi, Darth Vader and Yoda). We made them lightsabers out of pool noodles. Those were the coolest gifts they’d ever been given. And – bonus – we just raided the dress up box for Halloween the next year and we did a family Star Wars theme. It was super fun (and totally affordable, since we had half the costumes already)!

These superhero capes are awesome for every kid who wants to run like The Flash or shoot webs like Spider-Man! If your kiddos are into more realistic pretend play, this doctor costume and accessories set look like a ton of fun and are perfect for exploring caregiving. Or maybe you just have a kiddo who loves Doc McStuffins and wants to run their very own little stuffed animal hospital. And, sometimes you don’t need the whole costume. I really like this set of hats that will get the creative juices flowing. I can only imagine what my kids would come up with between the crown and the cowboy hat.

GIFTS FOR KIDS THAT MOM AND DAD WON’T HATE #11: WOODEN BLOCKS

Wooden Blocks. If you only get your children one kind of blocks, get a set like this! Seriously. These blocks are so versatile. My kids love to build towers with them, of course. But, they also use them with their toy cars, their dinosaur and super hero figurines, and they make race tracks for their hex bugs (another super fun toy). They test their building skills with competitions on who can make the tallest towers, who can build the tower with the most blocks and anything else they can come up with. All of my kids still play with these (and so does my husband…); it’s definitely a must-have toy in my opinion.

The biggest con is the storage space; but, if you take the time to put them away neatly, it really isn’t too bad. We keep our set in a treasure chest box my mom found at a thrift store. Having a specific container to put them all in definitely makes a big difference and this set comes with a great wooden box just for that purpose.

GIFTS FOR KIDS THAT MOM AND DAD WON’T HATE #12: KEVA BLOCKS

Keva Blocks. We first discovered these fun, seemingly too simple toys at our local children’s museum. How much fun can you have with a bunch of wood planks that are all the same size and shape? Well, we easily spent an hour playing with just these blocks the first time. We’ve since been back to our museum and have played with only these – for the whole entire visit. So, turns out, you can have a TON of fun with them. I love that they allow for open-ended play and cater to a variety of skill levels. My husband was building structures several feet tall while out 8-year-old was trying his hand at building bridges he’d learned about at school. My 5-year-old spent time exploring basic balance and weight principles. And my 3-year-old and I built small towers that he thoroughly enjoyed knocking down.

The box says ages 7+ and I would say that is an accurate suggestion for solo play, but our whole family enjoys playing with these. This beginner kit isn’t huge (it only has 20 planks and 30 instruction cards in it), but this is a case of less is more. The idea is to figure out how 2-dimensional images become 3-dimensional when you build them. It’s a great STEM activity and, of course, you can use them in free play too. If you want to expand your collection, you can get this expansion pack and increase your fun and Keva planks by 10 times! You’ll build some pretty great things with 220 planks. Or check out this cool contraption set with 50 more planks and 6 ideas for some fun Rube-Goldberg type contraptions (my kids are super into dominoes right now and they would LOVE the contraption set).

GIFTS FOR KIDS THAT MOM AND DAD WON’T HATE #13: A SUBSCRIPTION BOX

Subscription Boxes. These are all the rage right now and why wouldn’t they be?! Everyone likes to get mail, especially kids. And there are some really cool subscription boxes for kids! While these may not technically be toys, I couldn’t leave them off this list of Gifts for Kids that Mom & Dad Won’t Hate because these are awesome gifts! My favorite subscription boxes for kids are the KiwiCo Boxes because they have an awesome variety and you’re sure to find a box your kids will love. But, there’s a lot of options out there, so do a little research and check them all out. If you decide to check out KiwiCo, make sure you scroll down under the image and hit that 60% off link to get the best deal!

KIWICO HAS SUBSCRIPTION BOX GIFTS FOR KIDS OF ALL AGES!

The Cricket Crate is designed for kids 0-2. In each box you’ll receive a toy (think soft toys, wooden blocks, bright colored toys and chewables). You’ll also get a board book, which I love. I want all the books. There’s a magazine on child development for mom and dad and access to more online resources. There is a “Newborn Crate” specially designed for babies 0-3 months.

The Koala Crate is designed for ages 3-4. Each of these boxes focuses on one topic – like transportation or reptiles. It contains “creative materials” (mostly art supplies for your child to explore). There’s a guide for parents with activity ideas that support inquiry-based learning. A magazine with information on the topic of the box will expound on the things your child is learning. This magazine makes learning about the topic easy and fun. And all the information is right there, done for you. You’ll also be able to access more online resources and ideas.

The Kiwi Crate was the original boxes this company started with and they were amazing back then. Kiwi Crates are designed for 5-8 year olds. Each Kiwi Crate contains an age-appropriate project. Sometimes it focuses on art. Sometimes it’s more STEM. They’ll get creative learning materials and kid-friendly instructions to encourage their imaginations and tinkering. The Explore magazine with games, experiments and comics will further increase your child’s understanding of the project they did. And, of course, access to more online ideas and resources is also included.

DON’T FORGET THE OLDER KIDS!

The Doodle Crate is for kids 9-16+ and focuses on creative DIY projects. These aren’t just some lame projects, though. It’s things like making color-blocked candles or a wooden clock. If your kiddo is all about visual and creative arts, this is perfect for them. Each box includes everything your child needs to complete these projects, including all materials. There are also step-by-step instructions so they can do the projects and a guide with inspiration and ideas. If the written instructions and inspiration guide aren’t quite enough, they’ll be able to access online videos of the project.

The Tinker Crate is for kids 9-16+ and focuses on STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) projects – projects like building a trebuchet or hydraulic claw or using fiber optics to explore constellations. Each box includes all the materials needed to complete each STEM project and a detailed blueprint with step-by-step instructions. They’ll also get the Tinker Zine that has additional experiments and other activities. And there’s the access to online guides, in case the written instructions aren’t enough.

If you order anytime from now until November 28th, 2017 you can enjoy 60% off your first box. That’s double their usual first month promotion! Try out KiwiCo for less than $15, . Cancel your subscription any time.

Do you have any suggestions of gifts your kids have been given that you’ve loved? Share in the comments! I’m always looking for ideas to pass along.

The post 13 Gifts For Kids that Mom & Dad Won’t Hate appeared first on While He Was Napping.

THE IMPORTANCE OF HEALTHY SNACK IDEAS DURING PREGNANCY

I’m 8 months pregnant with my 3rd baby. I’m not a newbie to this pregnancy thing.

This wasn’t an unforeseen complication. It could have been prevented.

I know all the do’s and don’t’s. I know the importance of staying hydrated and fed.

But, last week I ended up spending about four hours in the hospital.

It was a busy morning getting Big J off to preschool and Little J had absconded with about half my breakfast… because, it’s always better off Mommy’s plate, or something. I was so busy I didn’t realize what I was depriving myself – and my baby – of. Food. Fuel.

PRIORITIES DON’T HAVE TO BE TIME CONSUMING

It can be so easy to get so busy that things just slip by us. Mom life is a busy life. It can happen to any of us. So, learn from my oversight, my busy mistake, my imperfect mom life.

And keep this list of healthy, low-prep snack ideas on hand for the next time you make out your grocery list or just need some ideas.

It’s the perfect solution when nothing really sounds good. Or maybe you’re so full of baby, you don’t feel hungry. Whatever the case, pregnancy can be hard enough – let’s make it a little easier.

After some research and brush up from all those health classes I took once upon a time, I came up with a list of snacks that are easy to make with little to no prep and are healthy.  I’ve divided them into categories: high in iron, high in calcium and high in protein. Some of them appear in more than one section.

Snack Ideas High in Protein

– Cottage Cheese and Fruit
– Jerky (choose a low-sodium, low-sugar brand or make your own)
– Mixed Nuts or Trail Mix
– Eggs
– Deli Meat (choose one low in sodium and preservatives.  Put it in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to be safe, if you’re pregnant)
– Protein Shakes or Bars
– Oatmeal Raisin Cookies (here’s a Chocolate Oatmeal Cookie recipe, a Cranberry Almond Oatmeal Cookie recipe and a Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal cookie recipe – try them all! The cranberry almond is my favorite though. And hang on to these after baby is born. Oatmeal can give you a boost while you’re lactating too!)
– Hummus and Veggie Dippers
– Cheese and Crackers
– Chocolate Milk
– Greek Yogurt and Fruit
– Peanut Butter or other nut butter (low-fat and crunchy is best)
– Soy Nuts
– Roasted Edamame
– Tuna (eat sparingly while pregnant)
– Lentils (a yummy, pre-cooked bean salad, perhaps?)
– Oatmeal (pre-packaged flavored packets are super simple and quick!)

Snack Ideas High in Calcium

– Leafy Greens
– Low-fat Cheese
– Milk
– Yogurt or Greek Yogurt
– Broccoli
– Okra
– Green Beans
– Almonds
– Fortified Cereals
– Fortified Orange Juice
– Soybeans
– Enriched breads
– Oranges
– Oatmeal
– Milkshake
– Omelette
– Cream Cheese on Enriched Bagel

Snack Ideas High in Iron

* If you eat high vitamin C foods with these, your body will better absorb the iron.

– Raisins and Peanuts
– Whole Grain Cereal
– Jerky
– Protein Bars and Shakes
– Meat (Chicken, Beef, Fish – Add these to meals or salads)
– Dark Chocolate (at least 80%)
– Dried Apricots
– Potatoes
– Quinoa
– Beans (black, kidney – on Nachos made with whole grain chips and low-fat cheese or in a salad)
– Broccoli
– Enriched Pasta
– Rice
– Artichokes
– Dried Fruits

What’s your favorite, easy snack?  Give me your ideas in the comments!

Do you want a printable version of this list? CLICK HERE to Sign up to get it in your inbox!

The post 30+ Healthy & Low-Prep Snack Ideas for the Busy, Pregnant Mom appeared first on While He Was Napping.

TIME IS MONEY. SPEND BOTH WISELY.

You’ve heard that before, right? Time is money. My husband used to say this to me ALL THE TIME because I’d take on projects that were costing me so much time, it wasn’t worth the money I was making on them. The same is true of some of the most popular money saving tips and techniques out there.

To be blunt, that pretty much sums up how I feel about couponing. You’ve probably seen photos where the proud purchaser has 12 bottles of juice, 18 tubes of toothpaste, 4 bottles of shampoo and 28 boxes of birthday candles that cost a whopping $19.38, right? While impressive, where would I put 28 boxes of birthday candles? And I’m picky about my shampoo.

Basically, extreme couponing isn’t for me. Know yourself and figure out what will work for you.

NOT EVERYONE SAVES MONEY THE SAME WAY

These are ways I help my family save money. I definitely didn’t use these same money saving tips when I was a college student. And another mom may not use the same methods in her family that I use in mine. Figure out what will work for your situation and do it! If something is helping you keep more money in your wallet, that’s all that matters.

Use these tips, adjust these tips or just plain ignore them. Do what works for YOU and forget what doesn’t. Maybe you try something new and discover it isn’t for you. That’s okay, now you know. Knowing what doesn’t work can help you save just as much money as knowing what does work.

5 MONEY SAVING TIPS TO KEEP MORE CASH IN YOUR WALLET

Money. Everyone wants more. But, when you’re trying to make ends meet, it can seem so much more important than just a lofty goal and a wild ambition. It feels like sink or swim. No one wants to sink. Whether your trying to pay the rent, get out of debt or inflate your savings account, here are 5 money saving tips to help you keep more green in your wallet TODAY.

MONEY SAVING TIP #1: MEAL PLAN

I don’t know about you, but our food budget is one of the largest parts of our monthly expenses. It’s not quite up there with the mortgage yet; but, it rivals our car payment, and sometimes surpasses it. Feeding my four guys is much more affordable when I plan out our meals. I use these printables and plan one or two weeks at a time. This stops us from buying food we’ll end up throwing out because we didn’t have a plan for it and it’s gone bad. It also helps us not eat out as often.

MONEY SAVING TIP #2: SHOP WITH A LIST

One of the small things that actually helps us save money is to use a list when we go shopping, and not just to the grocery store. We make a list of items to buy before we go into any store, generally speaking. I do this when I’m shopping online too. It’s so easy to add those little extra things to your cart. “It’s only $5.” Even if it’s just $5 a week, that’s $20 a month. But, think how far that $20 could go on your grocery budget or the diaper budget. You know, money you actually need to spend.

I keep a list on my fridge and when we run out of something or need to replace something, I add it to the list. Shampoo, toilet paper, new socks, contact solution – not just groceries. I meal plan and then make a grocery list from our meal plan so we aren’t buying things we don’t need. Shopping with a list helps us only spend money on things we actually need, and not on impulse buys.

MONEY SAVING TIP #3: COUPON APPS

I’m not a big couponer, really I’m not. But, there are some coupon apps that make it easy to use rebates or coupons. I like a lot of these apps because you don’t have to do the coupon redemption while you’re at the store. My faves are:

• Ibotta. I mainly use Ibotta for groceries, but they have a lot of other offers too. You can find offers for multiple stores and you have up to two weeks to upload a receipt and get the rebate. I try to upload my receipt when I’m putting my purchases away at home.
• Restaurants and fast food. If you frequent a particular restaurant, you might as well be using their loyalty program. Capriotti’s and Costa Vida are really the only ones I use, but it helps make our occasional meals out a little more affordable.
• Retail stores. It seems every store has an app, right? The ones I use offer a little something extra usually. Walmart (for their savings catcher), Costco (for the member coupons) and Target (for their cartwheel coupons only available in the app). If I’m in a particular store, I might download their app while I’m there and see if there are any coupons available. I especially do this for craft stores.

MONEY SAVING TIP #4: AUTOMATE YOUR SHOPPING

If you routinely buy something, automate that! Not only will it take the task off your to-do list, it can save you a trip to the store. Amazon’s Subscribe & Save program will have these things show up on your doorstep when you need them with ZERO EXTRA EFFORT FROM YOU. That’s something this busy mom can get behind. You can save up to 15% when you use the Subscribe & Save option and there are over 100,000 products available for Subscribe & Save.

MONEY SAVING TIP #5: NO-SPEND CHALLENGE

In my house, with all the testosterone floating around, a little competition can accomplish great things. When things get tight or we want to bulk up the bank account, we institute a no-spend challenge.

Follow these 3 steps to have a successful no-spend challenge.

1. Define the goal. Are you trying to make ends meet, get back on track or get caught up for any reason? Do you need to buckle down and have absolutely no spending? Or are you trying to save money and pad your bank account? Do you need to save as much as you can or a set amount? Figuring this out will help with the next step.
2. Set your rules. No spending at all or just the bills? What about groceries or gas? When does your challenge start? When does it end? Set rules so everyone knows what is expected.
3. Evaluate your challenge. Once your challenge is over, evaluate how you did. Did you stick with your rules? Did you accomplish your goal? How could you have done better?

BONUS MONEY SAVING TIP: KNOW WHEN TO BUY IN BULK

Warehouse stores can be great. But, it’s so hard to get out of there without spending $100, am I right? Will you really eat all of those 5 lbs of strawberries or will you end up throwing away half of them because you can’t eat them fast enough? Do you have somewhere to store that 36 pack of toilet paper? There are definitely things worth buying in bulk from a warehouse store. If it doesn’t have an expiry date (like toilet paper), you’re probably pretty safe.

Check bulk items at grocery stores too! You don’t need 5 pounds of baking soda from the warehouse store, but it’s usually a lot cheaper to refill your baking soda container than it is to buy a new one. And you can buy as much or as little as you need. Dry goods are a great place to save buying in bulk. Candy is another good one because you can get just a little bit and it’s cheaper than checkout stand goodies.

PUT THE CASH BACK IN YOUR WALLET TODAY!

So, there’s 5 money saving tips I use keep more cash for my family. Some of those may not work for you, and that’s okay. Try another one. Remember time is money. Spend both wisely. If it doesn’t work, it’s okay to move on. But, these methods won’t bulk up your bank account over night. Try these strategies for at least 30 days to see what they can really do for you and your family. It might seem like just $5 today, but you might be surprised to find it’s a $20 pack of diapers by the end of the month. Go see how much cash you can hang on to!

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