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Happy adorable kid boys and little girl eating healthy food, fresh watermelon in kindergarten, nursery or at home. Fresh fruits as organic bio snack for children. Three kids.

How To Get Your Kids To Eat Less Sugar

by LifeAsMama December 13, 2019

Do you know how much sugar your children consume on a daily basis? The answer may shock you, and you will want to start making sure your kids eat less sugar.

Surveys report that the sweet stuff makes up roughly 17 of what children consume each day. That’s a lot of sugar—and 50 percent of that comes from drinks with added sugar, according to research.

Toddlers are also having a lot of it—in fact, as much as seven teaspoons of sugar each day for toddlers aged 19 to 23 months in the U.S., according to findings by the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey for 2011-2014.

To put this in perspective, the American Heart Association recommends that children consume less than three teaspoons—or 12 grams—of sugar per day.

Why is sugar bad?

Sugar is one of the single worst ingredients you can put into your body, and here’s why.

Excess intake is linked with dental caries, obesity, asthma, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Not only that, it can also impact the child’s food habits and preferences, likely setting them to unhealthy eating later in life, research reports.

Name a disease, and there is a strong chance that excessive sugar intake has something to do with it.

It’s not all doom and gloom, though. With a few dietary changes, your kids can be encouraged to eat healthier and thus reduce sugar intake, which will set them on the path for healthier food choices into adulthood.

Here’s how to help your kids eat less sugar—without causing a rebellion.

Read Nutrition Labels

The ingredient lists on some of your children’s foods might sound like an alien language, but it’s critical to learn what words stands for added sugar. This will help you quickly realize how often sugar is added to foods, even to items that don’t even taste sweet, such as salad dressing, dried cranberries, ketchup, and baked beans.

Before you toss a product in your cart, scan the food label for the following:

Fructose
Fruit juice concentrates
Corn sweetener
Crystalline fructose
Dextrose
High-fructose corn syrup
Lactose
Maltose
Brown sugar
Agave nectar
Corn syrup
Cane sugar
Cane crystals
Glucose
Evaporated cane juice
Invert sugar

As a rule, any food that packs in more than 22.5 grams—or five teaspoons –of total sugar per 100 is high in sugar, and items below 5 grams—roughly one teaspoon—are considered low in the sweet stuff.

Limit Sweetened Beverages

Over 40 percent of added sugar in your kid’s diets comes from sweetened drinks, contributing little to nothing in the way of nutrition. Not only that, research also shows that the average child in the US gets 120 calories a day from soda alone.

What’s more?

One can of soda contain more sugar than the daily recommended limit for the whole day, depending on the brand.

For these reasons, reducing—or downright boycotting— these sugary bombs will have a substantial impact on your kids’ diet.

Instead of gorging on loads of empty calories, give your kids lime water, fresh fruit juice, or unsweetened lemon tea.

Clean your House

Ever heard of the adage “out of sight, out of mind”?

It applies particularly well to sugar-rich bites such as cereals, crackers, and drinks too.

If your kitchen drawers and pantry is loaded with toaster pastries, mini muffins, doughnuts, chocolate chips, your kids are far more likely to ask for them—maybe eat them behind your back.

Stop buying packaged snack foods and bites to eat at your own house. Go through your pantry and make a clean sweep and restock with healthier alternatives.

Find healthy alternatives

Getting your kids to eat less sugar is not all about limiting food choices. It’s also about adding healthier options to the menu.

That’s why I’d recommend coming up with healthy and tasteful alternatives, rather than denying your kids a snack or a treat. Not only doing can it help tame your kid’s cravings, but it also helps them meet their daily nutrition needs.

Healthier alternatives include:

Air-popped popcorn
Whole-grain crackers
Cut-up grapes and bananas
cut-up veggies with guacamole
Sliced apples
cheese sticks
Pears with peanut butter
low-sugar dressing for dipping

Lead by Example

To properly teach your kids how to curb their sugar intake, you have to be the role-model. What you do, both consciously and unconsciously, affects their behavior and their day to day choices.

If you want your kids to exercise more, then exercise more.

If you want them to eat more fruits, then eat more fruit.

When you lead by example and hold the pedal to the metal when it comes to eating healthier, you can help your kids maintain a healthy weight and normal growth.

Here are a few healthy eating habits to cultivate in yourself:

Portion control
Eating mindfully
Eating slowly
Eating in moderation
Reading food labels
Eating more veggies
Drinking more water

Don’t have hidden compartments, too. Your kids can tell.

Sugar is not inherently bad in itself. However, consuming a natural source of sugar, let’s say from fruits, is better for health than gorging empty sugar calories from a drink. And the above dietary guidelines are all you need to get your kids to eat less sugar.

Please feel free to leave your comments and questions in the section below.

In the meantime, thank you for dropping by.

Keep eating healthy.

Kids

5 Ways to Ensure Your Child Is Getting Enough Physical Activity

by Jennifer Landis November 6, 2019

written by Jennifer Landis

For most of your child’s school day, they have to sit down and listen to their teacher. A good education has countless merits, so you want them to sit, listen and learn. However, you know the importance of physical activity for children too — not only do they need to burn off restless energy, but doing so can greatly improve their health as well. And improving physical fitness now sets the groundwork for a healthy future. Stronger muscles, improved endurance and aerobic fitness will stay with kids who engage in physical activity from an early age.

Of course, you can encourage such activity at home, but you want to make sure your child gets a bit of action at school too. Here’s how to ensure they get a break to stretch their legs.

1. Talk to the Teachers

Firstly, your child’s teacher can tell you how much time they spend on their feet during the school week. Find out when they have physical education classes and for how long. Apart from that, the teacher can let you know how long recess is and what your child tends to do during that outside time.

You might also want to chat with the school gym teacher. They can give you a better idea of what your child gets up to in gym class. The sessions might have a routine — stretching and warm-ups that lead into sports training, for instance. Find out how much your son or daughter participates as well. If they’re often choosing to sit on the bench, they might need to do more exercise after school.

On that note, keep in mind that the Department of Health and Human Services recommends that children get one hour of physical activity every day. If you find that your little one doesn’t get enough exercise at recess or in gym class, supplement the time with after-school activities.

2. Be an Example

It’s no secret that children often emulate their parents’ behaviors. If they see you avoiding exercise, they’re likely to follow suit. Instead, be a good example to your child. Be vocal about your physical fitness pursuits and how much you enjoy them. Seeing you on your feet will inspire your kiddo to get on theirs. Teachers can step into a similar role, and it’s one of the best ways to promote physical activity in schools. Together, you can both motivate your child to get up and get going.

3. Find Activities Your Little One Enjoys

Perhaps your child needs a bit more physical activity than what they get from gym class and recess. If so, enlist them in an activity that gets them moving with enthusiasm. The school itself might have afternoon intramural leagues — hone in on the sport(s) your little one enjoys so that they look forward to going. You can also find similar activities at local gyms and churches. Or, consider signing your kid up for lessons to learn a physical skill, such as swimming, dance or karate.

Don’t do any of this without finding out your child’s interests. They won’t want to go or participate if you enlist them in an activity they don’t like. But something that excites them? That’s the best way to get them moving.

4. Schedule a Play Date

Playing outside is more fun with a friend — your child will certainly agree with that statement. Reach out to other parents to set up playdates for both of your kids. You can take them to a local playground and get them moving that way. Alternatively, sign them up for an after-school activity to help them feel more comfortable thanks to the buddy by their side.

You can also simply let them loose in the backyard or playroom of your home and see what they get up to. Without access to electronic toys, they’ll probably get on their feet and play together in no time.

5. Plan Family Outings Too

As previously mentioned, you should lead by example when it comes to physical fitness. Make it your mission to plan family activities that take you outside. It can be as simple as setting your timer and taking a walk. Kids with a competitive spirit will love to race against time and see how far they can go in a half-hour’s time.

Of course, you can get more creative than that. Perhaps you can orchestrate an outdoor scavenger hunt, in which your child has to find pine cones, acorns, leaves and other natural materials. Or, buy a kite and head to an open field to run it and fly it in the sky. Not only will you improve your child’s physical fitness, but you’ll also make memories because you’re doing it together. As a parent, you already know there’s nothing better.

Get Moving Today

With very little effort, you can make sure your child gets the exercise they need to stay healthy and happy. Follow the above steps to ensure you’re both content with the physical activities in which your kiddo participates. The best news is that no matter what you choose, you’ll be setting your little one on a path to live healthily for years to come. Get everyone moving today and feel better tomorrow!

Family Fun Holiday Kids Motherhood

5 Steps in Planning a Road Trip with the Kids

by LifeAsMama October 28, 2019

written by LifeAsMama

Road trips are part of the fabric of American culture. A great, flexible and affordable way to see the country, many people favor long drives over air travel to get around. Of course, whilst road trips are fun and exciting some of the time, spending long hours and days cooped up in a car on the road can have its challenges. When you add the kids into the equation those challenges can amplify. However, with a little preparation and some ‘off-road’ thinking, you can anticipate and negate the problems commonly faced when you take your family on the road and maximize the fun.

Packing and Preparation

Being well prepared is key for any long journey. Gone are the days where you and your partner could just throw a bag in the trunk, jump in the car and GO. With the kids in tow, a much greater degree of preparation is necessary. As you aren’t limited by airline luggage restrictions, packing doesn’t need to be as restrained as you’re used to. Depending on how long you’re going to be on the road you should aim to pack one appropriately sized bag per passenger. That way you can factor in all gear for all types of weather, and various types of footwear to suit any terrain, meaning you can enjoy all the sites and attractions along your way. Make sure you pack at least one or two in-car bags full of snacks, cleaning wipes, extra layers and emergency supplies (more on these later). Also, give your car a good service before you set out.

Choosing Destinations

The key to a successful road trip with children is planning where you will end up each night. It’s important to remember that with kids you need to allow more time for everything – from packing up the car to visiting tourist attractions and stopping for restroom breaks. When choosing your nightly stopovers it may be a good idea to go for places that include breakfast so you can fuel your troops before you start – this will eliminate the need for an early stop and get you on your way more quickly.

And of course, the big question is where you actually want to go – the Coasts are ever-popular choices, packed full of stunning nature, exciting cities and towns and classic destinations. Whether you’re discovering the gems of the East, like Niagra Falls or taking in the splendors of the Sonoma Valley on the West. Choose what you want to see and do, and leave enough time to see and do it – there is no point in rushing through amazing attractions just because you need to keep on schedule. Getting the kids involved in the planning process is a great way for them to feel more involved, and make the days more goal-oriented – much better than being sat in the back seat feeling aimless for hours at a time.

Fun and Games

And talking of long highway journeys, it’s important to remember that children have a much lower boredom threshold than adults. While you may be content to gaze at the passing scenery and listen to the gentle hum of the engine for hours at a time, the little passengers in the back will be getting increasingly restless. Have a selection of car-friendly games and activities planned out. In the mornings the kids are going to have much more energy, so games with lots of interaction are best (‘I spy with my little eye’, or other classic car games are great). In the afternoons the chances are that everyone (except, hopefully, the driver) will be getting a little drowsy, so more relaxed pursuits such as drawing, reading or watching movies on phones or tablets can work well. If you want to add a bit of road trip education into the mix then getting the kids to read the map or the GPS and give directions (probably best to supervise unless you want to end up lost) is a great way to get them involved.

Emergencies

Back to being prepared. Make sure you have a well-stocked first-aid kit – bandages, plasters, gauze, antiseptic, treatments for poison oak or any of nature’s other miseries are all a must – and travel sickness treatment to alleviate everyone’s suffering. Make sure you take all medications for the whole family and keep them somewhere secure where only the adults can access. Keep track of where you are and make sure you have all the appropriate emergency numbers (the local coastguard if you’re by the sea, or the forest rangers if you’re in the wilderness, for example). As with any adventure – hope for the best, but prepare for the worst.

Snacks and Meals

It’s almost a tradition to hit the junk food when you’re on a road trip. Outlets seem to be placed every few miles along the way, and it’s quick and easy. However, you don’t really want your kids eating fast food constantly, so planning healthy alternatives to munch on for the trip is essential. Choose fruits that aren’t too sticky and messy, such as apples and pears, and make sure you have a selection of nuts to nibble at. Sandwiches will replace burgers and hotdogs easily enough, and are easier on the wallet as well as the waistline.

The key to a successful road trip is, at the end of the day, enjoyment. However, preparation ahead of time, and the ability to quickly address your little troopers’ needs, whether they be appetite, health, boredom related or anything else will mean less on-the-road stress and more road trip fun. For all of you.

About the Author

Bethany Seton is a real estate agent from Melbourne. For the last two years, she decided to leave her office job and follow her passion for writing and traveling. Currently, she travels with her laptop and writes for various blogs, hoping one day she will gather all the experience she gets in one book.

Health Kids Little Kid Motherhood Toddler

How To Get Your Child Ready For The Dentist

by LifeAsMama October 14, 2019

written by LifeAsMama

Children should have their first dental appointment a few months after their first teeth come out. For most children this will be between 6 months and 1 years old. These very early dental appointments will usually just involve a quick check to make sure that the first teeth are coming through without problem, and will be more focussed on instructing parents on how to look after these early teeth.

The most important dental appointments for children occur at around the age of 3 or 4. This is for two reasons. Firstly, children at this age are starting to take responsibility for looking after their own teeth. Getting the right instruction and guidance from a dentist is vital at this point. Secondly, children can start to form meaningful associations, both positive and negative, with going to the dentist at this age.

Early negative experiences with the dentist can cause an avoidant pattern of behavior, as far as dental visits go. Avoiding the dentist in early adulthood is one of the biggest causes of serious dental problems down the line.

Therefore, in order to keep their teeth healthy throughout adulthood it’s absolutely vital that a child has positive early experiences with the dentist. Here are a few ways that you can make sure that this happens.

Make sure that your child knows what to expect at the dentist

The reason why a lot of people dislike going to the dentist is that it’s such an unusual experience. Laying on your back with your mouth open while someone touches your teeth is not something that happens in any other setting.

Your child is far more likely to have a positive experience at the dentist if they know what it will actually involve. It’s therefore important that you talk to them about what happens at a dental appointment, and why they do what they do. Have your child touch their own teeth to see what it feels like.

Getting used to the sensation of having their teeth felt will make the experience much less unpleasant when it actually comes to visiting the dentist.

Have your child practice having their mouth open

This may sound strange, but the experience of having your mouth open as wide as possible can be strange and unpleasant to a child. It can work muscles that are not used to being used, and can make the mouth feel dry and scratchy.

The best way to get accustomed to having your mouth open for several minutes is through practice. In the few days that lead up to the dental appointment, have your child keep their mouth open for a minute at a time.

This will both get your child used to the feeling of having their mouth open as wide as possible, but will also make the actual dental appointment run much quicker and smoother.

Plan out what questions you want to ask the dentist

Seeing the dentist is a great opportunity for a child to ask any questions about their mouth and teeth that may be worrying them. This could include questions about baby teeth becoming wobbly or any discomfort that they may be feeling when teeth come out.

In the vast majority of cases issues that your child may be worried about will be perfectly normal, and the dentist will be able to put their mind at ease. This reassurance can help build a positive relationship between the child and the dentist which will lead to a proactive approach to managing and preventing oral health problems as they get older

It’s also well worth thinking about what you want to ask the dentist about your child’s teeth before you go to an appointment.

How to handle suggestions for improvement from the dentist

Perhaps the largest reason why people don’t like going to the dentist is because they associate it with lectures about how they are not looking after their teeth properly. Such criticism can particularly affect a child, leading to feelings of shame around their teeth and promoting a pattern of behaviour where teeth are neglected because of this shame.

Of course, if a dentist is overly critical to a child and their parents, that is poor practice and you should seek out a different dentist.

However, if a dentist sees problems with a child’s teeth, it is their responsibility to suggest ways that these problems can be fixed. Usually these problems will boil down to a “brushing blindspot” namely a part of the mouth (usually at the back) which is being missed during brushing.

You should reassure your child that brushing is a skill that takes practice, and that they should not feel down if their teeth are not perfect. Work with your child to implement any advice from a dentist. When improvement is reported during your child’s next dental visit, praise and reward them for their hard work.

Treat your child after a dental visit

Going to see the dentist is a very healthy and responsible thing to do. It should be rewarded as such. Make sure that you do something fun with your child immediately after the dental appointment.

The more your child associates dental appointment with pleasant experiences (even if they only occur soon after the appointment), the more likely they are to be proactive about seeing the dentist in the future.

About the Author

Ron Baise is a dentist with over 30 years experience. He is currently an Associate Dentist and 92 Dental in London, England.

Baby Health Kids Little Kid Motherhood Pre-Teen Toddler

Childhood Sleep Apnea: What Parents Need to Know

by LifeAsMama October 14, 2019

written by LifeAsMama

According to the American Sleep Apnea Association, 1 to 4% of children in the United States are diagnosed with sleep apnea and most of them are between ages 2 to 8 years.

What is child sleep apnea?

Child sleep apnea is a sleep disorder where a child takes short pauses in breathing while sleeping.

What causes child sleep apnea?

Pediatric sleep apnea is often caused because the muscles in the upper airway relax while the child sleeps. This makes the muscles susceptible and allowsthe tonsils and adenoids to restrict the airflow in the upper respiratory system. This causes sleep apnea in children.

It can be genetic and can also occur in children who have large adenoids and tonsils. If sleep apnea is untreated or undiagnosed, it can pose behavioral as well as physical problems in children.

What are the sleep apnea symptoms in children you need to watch out for?

A child with sleep apnea may have the following symptoms:

At night,

Regularly snore loudly
Pause, snort or gasp and may actually stop breathing. Their own snorts or gasps may awaken them from their sleep.
Sleep in abnormal positions or be restless throughout the night
Sweat profusely during sleep
Tooth grinding (bruxism)

During the day,

Difficulty in waking up
Wake up with a headache
Get cranky, irritated or agitated
Fall asleep or daydream
Breathe through the mouth and speak with a nasal voice

If you see these signs in your child, talk to your pediatrician or a pediatric dentist. Consulting a pediatric dentist may seem an unlikely suggestion, but it is the right way to go about it because pediatric dentists are probably the first in line to detect sleep disorders.

If a pediatrician or a pediatric dentist thinks you are showing signs of sleep apnea, a sleep study may be conducted.

How is sleep apnea medically diagnosed?

A test called polysomnogram may be conducted to assess whether a child is suffering from sleep apnea. The test is painless and requires you to stay overnight at the sleep clinic along with your child.

During the sleep study, the following is monitored:

Eye movement and muscle activity
Brain waves
Oxygen levels in the blood
Breathing
Gasping and snoring while sleeping

What are the treatment options?

If your child is diagnosed with sleep apnea, there are a number of treatment options available. The doctor may choose the treatment option that is best suited for your child’s condition.

Surgery: A widely accepted treatment for childhood sleep apnea is the surgical removal of tonsils and adenoids. This procedure is known as adenotonsillectomy.

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): This therapy requires wearing a mask while sleeping. A tube connects the mask to a portable unit, which then applies pressure to open the throat muscles and prevent them from blocking the air passage, thus allowing regular breathing.

Diet and Medication:Some children may suffer from sleep apnea due to obesity. Doctors may recommend diet and weight loss programs to correct the sleep problem.Medication may be prescribed, which may include antibiotics (if surgery was done) or topical intranasal application of corticosteroids and anti-inflammatory medication.

Oral Appliance Therapy: This therapy has emerged as an alternative to surgery and CPAP therapy. This therapy makes use of a dental device that works as a mouthpiece moving the bottom jaw and tongue forward to keep the upper airway open for the child to breathe normally. The oral appliance therapy can be worked out under the supervision of a pediatric dentist.

Bottom Line

Dentists can detect the early signs of sleep apnea. Therefore, you must involve your family dentist in your child’s healthcare program. Get a regular dental check-up done to ensure that your child receives the right treatment at the right time.

About the Author

Shen Chao is part of Dr. Joshua Hong’s Smile Clinic. While working for the Smile Clinic, he’s gained first hand experiences into the questions and concerns that dental patients have. He has been writing to inform people about various dental topics to help his readers improve their oral health. When he’s not working, you can find him on a hiking trail with his dog or having a Sunday cook-out with friends.

Baby Family Kids Little Kid Motherhood Pre-Teen Teenager Toddler

Teach Them Right: The Benefits Of Having Pets For Kids

by LifeAsMama October 11, 2019

written by LifeAsMama

All pet owners know how much our furry little friends make our lives better. A pet near us means we will be healthier, happier, stronger, and more open to people and to life. Namely, a dog, a cat, a bird, a hamster, all of these are companions that give us unconditional love.

We all want the best for our children, we want them to grow up strong and healthy, adventurous and stable, curious and imaginative. We strive towards preserving that childlike wonder and innocence in the modern world, while still teaching them how to actually survive in it, how to not be lead astray by their own wonder and curiosity. The article below notes the benefits pets have for our children, both in terms of their physical and their mental health, their responsibility, and their empathy.

There are tangible, biological benefits to health and stress reduction

There are two very important ways a pet improves your child’s health. First of all, it reduces the stress your child feels throughout the day. Remember, just because your kid doesn’t have your obligations doesn’t mean he or she doesn’t have any stress. School, preschool, it can all be difficult for your child. With a pet, they get some comfort. Petting an animal lowers cortisol levels, the stress hormone.

The second way pets help is through lowering said stress hormone. Cortisol messes with our immune systems, it puts a strain on them, making us more susceptible to diseases and just getting sick. Furthermore, being exposed to a dog’s or cat’s germs form a young age means you are building up their immune system from an early age. You are essentially toughening them up through exposure.

Finally, they will just get a lot more exercise since they are going to walk them regularly, as well as playing and roughhousing. Anything that pries them, and you, away from a computer or smartphone screen.

Responsibility and confidence

Many parents get their children a pet as a way to teach them how to be more responsible, surer of themselves. Namely, getting a pet means they have very strong, important motivation to actually learn how to be responsible. You can bury them in chores, bribe them, threaten them with curfews and lower their pocket money, but you can get much better, more organic results with a pet.

Namely, a pet is a living, breathing thing they love and care about. There is no better way to motivate them to learn how to be responsible then to care about their favorite member of their family.

On a practical level, this means they will get up at the same time every day (or most days) to walk the dog, or to feed the cat. They will clean up after their pets, taking care of bird cages, litter boxes, and hamster wheels. You can even send them to the pets store if they’re old enough.

On your part, you need to teach them properly, instead of them getting the animal, or themselves, into trouble. Talk to your veterinarian, and give very clear instructions when it comes to diet. Read articles from good websites, like, Totally Goldens, or maybe pick up a magazine recommended by your vet. Your child will most likely want to feed your pets as much as possible, just because they see that they like it. You have to explain to them why this doesn’t work. Or, they may not understand why walking your dog is so important, or why you can’t feed xyz to your pet.

Help children develop empathy

A pet gives unconditional love – they do not judge, they don’t care who you are, where you come from, who your parents are – a pet will love you and your child unconditionally. They give comfort, support, they listen intently… You, your kids, your family are the number one thing in their lives. They are the best, most loyal friends anyone can hope for.

This showing of unconditional love can teach your children how to be loving back, they help them build empathy. Furthermore, caring for a dog or a cat or whatever pet you have teaches them to be empathic, to put the needs of someone, or something, else in front of their own needs.

They also get the opportunity to practice their verbal skills even when they are not in the company of other people. Young children will get to talk a lot more, they will communicate to their pets, explain things to them, in general, keep their minds occupied.

Conclusion

A pet can do wonders for your children’s development. It teaches them what unconditional love is, what it looks like. You can also help your kids develop empathy, as well as work towards improving their verbal skills and communicative skills. They will become more confident and responsible by taking care of the pets, and they will also be healthier due to lower stress and regular exposure to their furry best friends.

About the Author

Kimberly Anderson is a simple girl that has a weak spot for dogs, cappuccino and sleep. She’s also a writer and everlasting enthusiast who believes that there is nothing better starting your day with a hot cup of coffee.

Food Healthy Eating Lifestyle

3 Tips To Get Your Kids To Eat Their Vegetables

by Grandma Penny April 16, 2019

written by Grandma Penny

Kids and vegetables have a long, complicated history. Simply saying the dreaded “v” word can send a picky eater scurrying out of the kitchen with their lips clamped shut. But as a mom, you know getting vegetables into those little mouths is essential. You might have to get creative if you want your kids to get all the vitamins and minerals they need, so here are some of my best ideas.

1. Reap What You Sow

One great way to get your kids to eat more vegetables is to let them become plant parents. The feeling of responsibility and the awe of watching the living plants sprout and grow can inspire them to at least tolerate their existence and maybe even taste them.

Surprisingly, the easiest, fool-proof and most satisfying vegetable to grow is the radish. Radishes may not be as popular as macaroni and cheese, but kids sure love to see the red bulbs pop up after only 30 days from planting in the spring. Lettuces like mesclun mix, can also be harvested in less than a month.

2. Spiralize Those Veggies

A zoodler costs around $10, and it’s the best money I have spent all year. You can spiralize carrots and cucumbers for quick fun salads, or spiralize zucchini or other squash for a quick hot spaghetti type of meal. There’s just something about spirals that make vegetables more appetizing for kids.

Most spiral vegetables cook in seconds, and all you need to do is add sauce and a sprinkle of grated cheese. Ta Da!! Dinner in less than 10 minutes, and vegetables your kids will have fun eating.

3. DIY Dressings

Salads are a lot more exciting when you let the kids make their own dressings. From a squeeze of lemon to an eight-ingredient extravaganza, the combinations for homemade salad dressings are endless.

As a bonus, you can also use the dressings as a marinade with chicken, fish, pork, or beef. To get started, I just set out an assortment of ingredients and let the kids mix and match.

The basic recipe is one base ingredient (4 ounces), one acid (1 ounce), one flavor (use sparingly), one herb (1 tablespoon), and a pinch of salt. The thin, vinegar-based dressings are shaken in a bottle with a tight fitting lid, and the thick, creamy dressings (or dips) are stirred in a bowl with a whisk. So the first questions we ask when we get to the kitchen to make dressing is, “Shaken or stirred?” Once you decide on that, you can let the kids get creative and figure out for themselves which combinations make the tastiest dressings.

Here is a list of ingredients that we have used this past year.

Base ingredients:

olive oil
mayonnaise
sour cream
buttermilk
avocado
yogurt

Acid ingredients:

lemon juice
lime juice
apple cider vinegar
red wine vinegar
balsamic vinegar

Sweetener (optional)

Honey, sugar, maple syrup ,apricot jam, raspberry jam,
orange marmalade, pineapple juice

Strong Flavor (use sparingly)

fresh garlic
garlic powder
onion powder
crushed red pepper
anchovies
cayenne pepper

Variety flavor (let your imagination go wild)

Parmesan cheese, grated
Bleu cheese
feta cheese
pickle juice
chopped pickles
ketchup
tomato paste
mustard
mustard powder
pickle relish

Fresh and dried herbs

oregano
basil
thyme
rosemary
parsley
sage
dill
tarragon

Sometimes the simplest dressing is the best choice. The most popular potato salad recipe just calls for mayonnaise, salt, and pepper. Traditional coleslaw is just mayo, white vinegar, sugar, and salt, and basic Italian dressing is olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, and salt.

No matter what kind of dressing your kids create, they’ll love pouring it over a fresh springtime salad. It’ll give them a sense of pride and accomplishment, and you can even name their favorite creations and write them down in your recipe book for future use.

Kids

6 Funny Times Kids Need You When You’re Busy

by Karly Wood June 14, 2017

written by Karly Wood

Has anyone ever noticed that your kids are petty independent beings, until you’re busy? I mean, I have to hear ALL DAY that my daughter wants to do it “by myself” or to “let me do it,” until I finally give in and leave her alone to her own devices. But oh no- I can’t get too comfortable because heaven forbid I actually start doing something for myself. THAT’S when she finally needs me. Here are just a few of the ironic ways kids suddenly need your full attention when you’re busy.

1. When I’m On The Phone

This has deserved top spot in my list, because I rarely talk on the phone. Who has time? I work from home and spend my entire day with a 4-year old. Who on earth would I need to talk to? On the rare occasion I’m on the phone, it’s usually serious business: I have a work call with my boss, I’m returning the call to the doctor’s office, or I’m scheduling repair men to hurry up and come stop the leak that is flooding my kitchen. Why WOULDN’T my daughter suddenly need me to change the channel because, as she likes to scream from the other room, “SOMETHING HAPPENED TO THE TV!” Now would also be the perfect time to start crying that she doesn’t want to finish the last 4 minutes of her quiet time, or tell me that she lost a princess behind the book shelf. I give up. I’ll just live my life by texts.

2. When I’m In The Shower

Sorry girlfriend, I can’t get out of the shower to go look at your collection of teddy bears. I also can’t carry on a life-changing conversation with you from the other room because I can’t hear you and for ONCE I’m taking care of myself by showering. And NO I can’t open that pack of fruit snacks with sopping wet hands so you’ll have to wait (ok, I did do that once to quell the madness but never again).

3. When I’m Driving

WHY!? We have had this conversation one THOUSAND TIMES that I cannot tie your shoe, fix your earring or look at whatever object you want me to look at because I’m DRIVING. Sorry you dropped your goldfish, they will have to wait for the next red light or NEVER because I’m trying to keep us all alive by driving safe.

4. When I’m Vacuuming

Really? NOW you want to talk about why you didn’t listen and obey 6 hours ago? Is it the sudden realization that I’m thoroughly fixated on cleaning up the mess I’ve been trying to accomplish for the last week? Or just that you like to live in squalor and want me to avoid the vacuum at all costs?

5. While I’m Watching the Last (AND BEST) Few Minutes Of My Favorite Show

I really only need you to be quiet for TWO MINUTES. That’s all it takes for me to ensure that I’ve completed understood the resolution to this episode. What I DON’T need is for you to ask me every 9 seconds whether the show is over yet, if you can get a snack and again- whether the show is over yet. Eventually I just give up and watch it later. Or many times, never.

6. While I’m Going To The Bathroom

Nothing inhibits your own attempts at using the bathroom than a peeping tom in the shape of your own kids. Even worse, when you’re finally alone and getting things done in there, THAT’S when your 4 year old decides that they have to go, and that they’ve beat you to the finish line and being yelling “I’m DONE CAN YOU COME WIPE MY BUTT!?” Yes, yes I can. But you have to wait your turn.

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Karly Wood

Editor at Red Tricycle

I'm a born and bred Southern California native and currently the managing editor at Red Tri. I get to share my life with my husband of 13 years and our beautiful, 5-year old daughter. In my free time you'll catch me cheering for the Dodgers, cooking, baking, reading, crafting and probably watching a little HGTV!

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Karly Wood

Kids Tips & Ideas

6 Great Places To Sell Your Child’s Old Stuff

by Jordyn Smith May 31, 2017

written by Jordyn Smith

The more the years pass and the older our children get, the more stuff we seem to acquire. Children grow fast, which means that replacing entire wardrobes every few months is as much of a common occurrence as buying new toys that fit their age-range. There are a few items, like your baby’s first pair of shoes or favorite childhood toy, that stay throughout the course of our lives. But it is almost impossible to save all of your child’s old things and keep your home free of needless clutter. The fact that your child has grown out of or become too old for their old things doesn’t mean they have to go to waste. In addition to donation drives at church and during the holidays, you can also choose to sell these items. These 6 places take a lot of the strife out of getting rid of your old things and have the added bonus of allowing you to make a little extra cash in the process.

1. thredUP

thredUP isn’t specifically geared towards children’s items, but they are one of the site’s largest markets. thredUP is a premier destination for buying and selling high-quality secondhand clothing items. For children, they accept everything from shoes to swimwear from both girls and boys. If your child’s wardrobe features items from places like Baby Gap, Justice, and Old Navy among other places, thredUP is the perfect place to sell them. The entire process is pretty easy, they’ll send you one of their Clean Out Kits and send you payment in exchange. You can receive payment through a PayPal transfer, in the form of store credit, or choose to donate them to a great cause.

Find out more about the company and the process at thredUP.

2. Once Upon A Child

Once Upon A Child is the only company on this list with actual retail locations. Instead of going through an extensive online selection process, all you have to do is take your items into one of their locations, let them sort through your stuff, and receive your payment on the spot. Once Upon A Child accepts children’s clothes, toys, furniture, and gear for children of all ages. Their stores stretch from New York, to Texas, to California, if you have one in your area, we highly recommend trying them out.

Find more information about their operation at Once Upon A Child.

3. Kidizen

If your little one has a penchant for wearing particularly trendy clothes, Kidizen is the perfect place to sell them. Instead of a website, Kidizen is an app that seeks to connect moms looking to sell their child’s items with moms looking to buy them. The company tries to create a close community of trustworthy buyers and sellers, an effort that helps ease anxiety. Kidizen caters to trendy, in-style fashion for kids of all ages.

Find out more at Kidizen.

4. OfferUp

Think of OfferUp as a less threatening Craigslist. Through this simple platform, you can sell clothes, toys, gear, basically anything you want to people in your area. Using the website or the mobile app, OfferUp allows users to post the items they wish to sell and take multiple offers from other users in their area.

Head on over to OfferUp to learn a bit more about their buying and selling process.

5. Schoola

Schoola is the perfect place to try if you’re looking to get rid of a few things and help a great cause at the same time. The company was created by a team of teachers and parents with the intent of funding much-needed school programs through the sale of secondhand clothes. While Schoola won’t offer you much in the way of money for your child’s things, you will be able to rest easy knowing that your things are being used to help children in need.

Visit Schoola to find more information on the organization.

6. Amazon

Finding some who doesn’t use Amazon in the day and age is extremely difficult. The online marketplace offers amazing deals on just about every product under the sun. They also make selling your gently used items really easy. You can list as many items as you want, charge extra for shipping, and be easily paid through the company. For every used stroller your child has grown out of there is a family needing a steep discount on one.

Start selling at Amazon.

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Jordyn Smith

A city girl currently living it up in the south with my little family. I love baking, hoarding makeup, and daydreaming. If I'm not writing, I'm probably trying to think up weird pizza recipes or watching Property Brothers.

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Kids

4 Things All Parents Of Strong-Willed Children Know

by Ellice Vargas May 30, 2017

written by Ellice Vargas

As a parent of a strong-willed child, there are a few things we regularly hear about our kids. I know we’re not the only people who fight over the importance of wearing pants when leaving the house. Toddlers as a general rule don’t love to listen to reason. However, there are some things us parents of particularly strong willed children know all too well.

1. We’re Doing The Best We Can

Parenting a strong-willed child is not for the faint of heart. There are many times I have avoided a play date or group activity for fear of how my child may act and because my parenting will be forced into full display. Even though it may feel like an endless battle, we know we doing the absolute best we can.

2. That YOU Would Do It Differently

“If you just…” is probably the most heard comment to a parent of a strong-wiled child. Spanked more, yelled more, disciplined more, I can’t even tell you how many suggestions I have heard in regards to my daughters behavior. It’s amazing how many parents think they have the golden ticket to magically make kids behave themselves. Chances are we have tried most. if not all. of these “helpful” suggestions.

3. You Know You Are a Better Parent Because Of Them

Maybe you feel like you’re failing more then you are succeeding, but there is nothing like a strong-willed child for you to really dive deep and come up with creative and engaging solutions to make life a little simpler. They may take a little extra “work” but I like to think they are just helping make us better parents.

4. They Are Going To Do Great Things

The one thing I regularly tell myself about my daughter is how amazing these traits are going to be as she grows up. She will push boundaries and accomplish anything she sets her mind to. I know all of the things that make her difficult to parent now will just help her become a strong independent woman someday. It’s my job to direct her into passion into something great and not squash it out of her.

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Ellice Vargas

I'm a British gal and mama to one sweet daughter. I love a good DIY project, interior design and photography. When I'm not writing for Life As Mama, I'm traveling as much as I can with my little family and filling up my camera roll with snapshots of our life.

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