Why do kids struggle with the after-school transition?  

Kids often struggle with the after-school transition because it can be a big shift from the structured school environment to the more relaxed (or chaotic) atmosphere at home. The sudden change can be overwhelming after a day full of lessons, rules, and social interactions – the sudden ability to let it all go, and they release all the emotions they’ve been building up and holding onto all day.

They might feel tired, hungry, or need a break, which can make it hard to switch gears or even understand what exactly it is that they are feeling.

Plus, the sudden lack of routine or clear expectations after school can leave them feeling lost or unmotivated, unsure of what to do with themselves, and their big feelings, adding to the challenge of making a smooth transition.

Create a Consistent After-School Routine:

Establishing a predictable routine after school provides a sense of security and helps kids transition more smoothly from the school environment to home. Consistency is key here! 

Try these steps:

• Snack Time: Offer a healthy snack to replenish their energy. Fresh fruit, yogurt, or whole-grain crackers are excellent options – and can squash those hangry feelings!
• Quiet Time: Designate a quiet period where kids can unwind. This might be time for reading, drawing, or even a little screen time.
• Homework Time: Set a specific time for homework, preferably after a short break. Once they’ve relaxed and had a bite to eat, it’s easier to shift hears and re focus.

Encourage Physical Activity After-School:

Exercise is an excellent way for kids to release pent-up energy and reduce stress. Physical activity after school can help them feel more relaxed and ready for the evening 

Incorporate these activities:

• Outdoor Play: A game of tag, a bike ride, or a walk in the park can be invigorating.
• Sports: If they’re involved in sports, practice or a casual game can be beneficial.
• Rough-housing: Some kids like to rough house with siblings, and that’s fine too!
• Dance Party: Turn on their favorite music and have a mini dance party to get their energy out in a fun way.Jump Battle: Kids love a jump battle; it’s even better if you have a trampoline!

Set Up a Calm Environment

The atmosphere in your home can greatly impact how easily your kids wind down. Creating a calming environment helps them transition from the busyness of school to a more relaxed state.

Consider these tips:

• Quiet Spaces: Designate a quiet area in your home where they can retreat to if they need a break from stimulation.
• Don’t bombard them with questions: Kids often don’t want to talk about their day, and that’s ok. Give them some time, then try these tips to get them to open up about their day.
• Soothing Sounds: Soft background music or nature sounds can create a serene atmosphere.
• Comfortable Setting: Ensure that their space is relaxed and free from clutter. A cozy area with pillows and blankets can be an inviting spot for them to veg out.

Implement Relaxation Techniques for Kids:

Teaching kids relaxation techniques can help them manage stress and improve their overall well-being. Simple practices can be easily incorporated into their after-school routine, and these can be lifelong tips and tricks they’ll rely on to relax even as adults. This is particularly helpful to kids who get anxious.

Try these relaxation techniques to help them wind down after school:

• Deep Breathing: Teach them to take slow, deep breaths to calm their mind and body.
• Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Guide them through tensing and relaxing different muscle groups. You can find kids-friendly videos to walk them through this on YouTube.
• Yoga Exercises: Encourage them both focus, breath, and move their body! There are lots of great yoga videos for Kids, like this one where you can find a theme your kids loves!

Foster Creative Outlets as a Way for Kids to Wind Down After School:

Engaging in creative activities can be a great way for kids to express their feelings and unwind after a busy day. It also helps them develop their imagination and problem-solving skills, plus, is just a great way to relax!

Creative after-school ideas include:

• Drawing and Coloring: Provide them with art supplies and most importantly, let them create freely!
• Craft Projects: Simple crafts can be therapeutic, like making friendship bracelets or decorating picture frames.
• Writing: Encourage them to keep a journal or write stories to express their thoughts and emotions. This may be tough and too hard for younger kids, so if this isn’t right for your kiddo, no worries don’t push it on them!

Share Quality Time:

Spending quality time together can help your kids feel valued and supported. It also allows them to relax and enjoy the company of family members. Family Meals and use this time to discuss their day and connect. Read a book to them, or play a boardgame.

Address Their Emotional Needs:

Finally, acknowledge and address any emotional or psychological needs your kids may have. The transition from school to home can sometimes be challenging, and offering support is essential. Validate Their Feelings and let them know that it’s okay to feel tired, stressed, or overwhelmed. Offer Reassurance provide comfort especially if they had a tough day at school.

Helping your kids wind down after school is all about creating a balanced routine that promotes relaxation and supports their well-being.  Plus, it makes it much easier for the whole family to have a relaxing evening and sets them up for another successful day tomorrow!

Remember, every child is different, so finding what works best for your family might take some time. With patience and consistency, you’ll create a peaceful environment that helps your kids thrive.

The post How to Help Your Kids Wind Down After School: Tips for a Relaxed After-School Routine appeared first on The Mabelhood.

Understanding the Need for Boundaries:

Homeschooling blurs the lines between home and school environments, creating a situation where work and personal life can easily overlap and become awkward for kids and parents. This overlap can lead to burnout, stress, and a feeling of being constantly “on duty.” Recognizing the need for boundaries is the first step in maintaining a successful homeschooling experience.

How to Set Boundaries with Homeschooling:

Establish Clear Daily Routines:
Define specific times for homeschooling activities and stick to them as much as possible. This helps maintain a sense of structure, which kids thrive on, and communicates to kids and parents when it’s time to focus on academics and when it’s time to relax or engage in other activities. 

Designate a Homeschooling Space:
Create a dedicated area in your home for homeschooling. This space should be free from distractions and equipped with all necessary supplies. When homeschooling time is over, leave this space to signify the end of the school day.

These labels can make your homeschooling space feel special

Schedule Breaks and Free Time:
Breaks are essential for kids to recharge, and recharging helps kids maintain productivity, just like recess in a traditional school setting. Add breaks into the schedule and use this time to unwind or attend to personal tasks and chores on your to-do list too.

Communicate Expectations:
Clearly communicate with your children about balancing homeschooling and life you aim for and why it is important. This helps manage expectations and reduces conflicts related to homeschooling and personal time. Keeping the family on the same page about the difference between school and life can eliminate tension.

Prioritize Self-Care:
As a homeschooling parent, it’s easy to neglect self-care amidst the demands of teaching and managing a household. Make time for activities that recharge you, whether exercise, hobbies, or simply quiet time for yourself. You must get out of the house regularly; changing your environment can help recharge you.

Seek Support:
Don’t hesitate to seek support from other homeschooling parents or join communities where you can share experiences and tips. If possible, delegate some homeschooling responsibilities to others in your household or consider co-op arrangements with other families. This eliminates a lot of the burden, gives you great opportunities to get ideas from other families, and of course, gives your kids a fun experience also!

Make sure you label your kid’s stuff for days out to avoid lost, mixed-up stuff!
Setting boundaries is not always straightforward, and challenges may arise along the way. Be prepared to adapt your approach and remain flexible in scheduling and expectations. Remember, the goal is to create a balance between homeschooling and personal life, fostering learning and well-being for everyone involved. 

After all, you likely started this journey to find the values in academics and home life and create a good-quality, rewarding life for you and your kids. Finding the right balance is a process that evolves over time. With patience, perseverance, and a commitment to your family’s well-being, you can create a fulfilling homeschooling experience for everyone involved.

Check this out for more homeschooling tips.

The post Balancing Homeschooling and Life; How to Set Boundries appeared first on The Mabelhood.

It’s a question I ask myself quite regularly as a mom of two teenage boys. It mostly occurs when they’re on their headsets gaming with friends. I’ll hear laughing, yelling, squealing, and then there will be conversations that I swear are in a different language. It’s like a secret teenage code. A code…that I’m about to crack!

As parents, I feel like we should at least have an idea of what our kids are talking about, right? So, with a little help from my kids and a few Google searches, I now know what they’re saying – and so do you! Let’s dive in, shall we?

“Sty”

You know how our parents always called us lazy? Well, it’s like this generation said “Here, hold my Root Beer”. If you overhear your child saying things like… “He’s got so much sty!” or “That’s so sty!”, it’s not an eye infection. The word “Sty” is simply short for Style. Yes, the kids of today decided that a word with only one syllable needed to be shortened even more.

“Bet”

To most of us, this word means making a bet with someone. We were forever saying “Wanna bet?!” to all our friends when we were kids about pretty much everything. Well, these days “Bet” means something different.  It basically means… “I agree”. So, if you were to ask your teen if they want pizza for dinner and they respond with “bet” – it means yes. Why can’t they just say yes, you ask? I have no idea. 

“Rizz”

I’m sure you’ve heard kids talking about other kids who have “Rizz”. I asked my boys what it means, and they just said it means someone has “game”, and they can charm people. Then, I decided to do a little Google search and “Rizz” is simply short for “Charisma”. It just sounds so much cooler to say “Rizz”, doesn’t it?

“Gyat”

So, I wasn’t sure if I was going to include this one on the list, but it’s become a common one I hear quite often. “Gyat” refers to someone who has a ‘large behind’ – but in a good way! It’s a compliment apparently. (Who knew?!)

“Mewing”

I think there’s about 18,956 pictures on my phone of my kid “mewing”. Basically, mewing is a technique in which the tongue is placed on the roof of the mouth to make the jawline look better. Google also said the technique of mewing can improve sleep and reduce mouth breathing. Some even claim that mewing can treat speech disorders, jaw pain, and sinusitis. I don’t know if there’s any actual science to back that up, so take what you will from it. 

“Cap”

The term “cap” refers to a lie, while “no cap” means “no lie” or “for real”. So, the next time your teen asks if you’re serious, respond with “no cap” and see what happens. 

“Skibidi Toilet”

I don’t even think the kids know what this means, they just say it. I think it’s the name of a series on YouTube though. All I know is there’s a “Skibidi Toilet” song out there somewhere and it’s annoyingly catchy and you may find yourself humming it in the shower…

here you have it! Teen speak translated. A year from now, we’ll probably have a whole list of new words we’ll need to learn, but hopefully this helps for now.

If you’ve managed to translate any other words that aren’t on this list – let me know! We need all the help we can get when it comes to raising teenagers!

And on that note… peace out, laters, G2G!

The post Understanding Teen Slang in 2024 appeared first on The Mabelhood.

Babies are more sensitive to heat than adults, and proper precautions can make a significant difference in their well-being. Here are some essential tips to keeping your baby safe during hot weather:

Tips for Keeping Your Baby Safe During Hot Weather:

Dress Appropriately:

• Choose lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton. Opt for light colors that reflect rather than absorb heat.
• Hats with wide brims or caps that shade the face and neck are essential when outdoors.

Keep Hydrated:

• Breastfeed or offer formula more frequently than usual to keep your baby hydrated. If your baby is over six months old and has started solids, offer water between feeds.
• Look for signs of dehydration such as dry lips, fewer wet diapers, or fussiness. 

Create a Cool Environment:

•  Use fans or air conditioning to maintain a comfortable temperature indoors. Ensure fans are out of reach and not blowing directly on your baby.
•  If air conditioning is not available, use a cool-mist humidifier or place a bowl of ice in front of a fan to create a makeshift cooler.

Limit Outdoor Activities During Peak Heat:

•  Avoid going outdoors during the hottest part of the day (usually between 10 AM and 4 PM). Opt for early mornings or late afternoons for outings.
•  Use a stroller with a sunshade or attach a lightweight, breathable blanket over the stroller to shield your baby from direct sunlight.

Use Sun Protection:

•  Apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to exposed areas of your baby’s skin. Choose a sunscreen specifically formulated for babies with physical blockers like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
•  Keep in mind that babies under six months should be kept out of direct sunlight, so use clothing and shade as the primary forms of sun protection.

Be Mindful of Overheating:

•   Check your baby frequently for signs of overheating, such as flushed cheeks, rapid breathing, or fussiness.
•   If your baby feels hot to the touch, gently remove layers of clothing or move to a cooler environment.

Cool Baths and Damp Cloths:

•  Offer your baby a lukewarm bath or sponge bath to help lower their body temperature. Avoid cold water, as it can cause shivering and further increase body heat.
•  Dampen a washcloth with cool water and gently wipe your baby’s skin to provide relief from heat.

Never Leave Your Baby in a Car; We All Know This, but It Bears Repeating

•  Temperatures inside a parked car can rise rapidly, even with the windows cracked. Never leave your baby alone in a car, even for a short time.
• As tired parents, it’s easy to forget – set a reminder for yourself (yes, it can happen to you). Put your purse or shoe in the backseat to ensure you won’t forget.

Monitor for Heat-related Illnesses:

•  Be aware of symptoms of heat exhaustion or heatstroke, such as high body temperature, rapid pulse, nausea, or confusion.
•  Seek medical attention immediately if you suspect your baby is experiencing a heat-related illness.

Trust Your Instincts:

•  Every baby is different, and you know your baby best. If you’re concerned about your baby’s comfort or well-being in hot weather, trust your instincts and seek advice from your healthcare provider.
  

  Don’t forget about yourself, mama!:

  •  Make sure you also stay cool, and hydrated! If you’re nursing you may find you baby wants to nurse more often in hot weather, and that can take a toll on you too. Stay cool and hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Always take good care of yourself (physically and mentally – this hot weather can be draining in so many ways)

By following these simple yet crucial tips, you can ensure that your baby stays safe and comfortable during hot weather. With a little preparation and vigilance, you can enjoy the summer months while keeping your baby cool and happy. Here’s to a safe and enjoyable summer with your little one!

Want to read some cool stuff about having a summer baby? Here are all the baby birth months, and what they mean.

The post Tips for Keeping Your Baby Safe in Hot Weather appeared first on The Mabelhood.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare to send your kid to school with allergies:

Understand your child’s allergies:
Make sure you have a clear understanding of your child’s allergies, including what they are allergic to, common symptoms, and emergency procedures. Others can’t help you if you don’t have all the details, so make sure to get all the info you need before starting a plan for the school.

Prepare your medical documentation:
Provide the school with medical documentation from your child’s healthcare provider detailing their allergies, emergency contact information, and any necessary medications or treatments.

Get your child an appointment over the summer months to ensure there are no new updates or changes needed to any of the info, and you can provide the most up-to-date information for their school file.

Start developing an Allergy Action Plan:
This plan should outline specific steps to take in case of an allergic reaction, including symptoms, treatment (such as administering epinephrine if needed), and when to seek emergency medical help. Make sure you fully understand all of this so you can clearly pass along the information.

-What medications (epic pens, inhalers) does the child need with them each day?
-Where do those medications stay at school (a spot in the classroom, on their desk? On their person)?
-What symptoms is everyone to be aware of?
-What treatment is needed?
-Who administers the treatment?
-Who gets called first?
-If your child needs to go to the hospital, who will travel with them?

Label food containers, lunch boxes, bag, backpacks and medications:
Ensure that any medications your child may need, such as epinephrine auto-injectors, are properly labeled with their name and dosage instructions. Provide a backup dose of medication to keep at the school if needed. Make sure all backpacks, bags, lunch bags, snack container and water bottles are labeled with these Custom Medical Alert Label Pack for school kids.  Educate your kids child about their allergies:

-How to recognize symptoms of a reaction
-What triggers their allergens
-How to avoid allergens
-What to do if they have a reaction

Make sure they know all this information like the back of their hand. Teach them how to communicate their allergies to teachers and peers, and give them tips on what to say and how to advocate for themselves.

Discuss allergy accommodations with school staff:
Work with school staff to develop the accommodations needed for your child’s allergies. This may include measures like nut-free classrooms or lunch areas, allergen-free snacks provided by the school, and special seating arrangements in the cafeteria. Include all of this in your action plan.

If your child has lunches provided or gets food from the cafeteria, make sure you ask questions:

-How will they identify your child when serving food
-How will they manage possible cross-contact within the kitchen?
-Will a staff member be watching child over the lunchtime period?

Make sure that the school has steps in place to ensure that the allergy action plan is passed along to all teachers, including substitute teachers! Don’t be afraid to ask them about this often. You may feel like an annoyance, but it benefits your child’s health, and they may appreciate or need the reminders!

Pack Safe Snacks and Meals:
This goes without saying: If your child has food allergies, provide safe snacks and meals for them to bring to school. Make sure they understand not to share food with classmates and to always check ingredient labels. If you don’t take it seriously, nobody else will, either.

Stay Informed of policies:
Stay informed about school policies and procedures related to allergies and any updates or changes. Keep lines of communication open with school staff and be proactive in addressing any concerns or issues that arise, especially for sports events, outings and field trips etc. when routines change.

Review and Update Regularly:
Review your child’s allergy action plan and accommodations regularly to ensure they remain up-to-date and effective. Make any necessary revisions based on changes in your child’s allergies or medical needs.

Preparing and communicating effectively with school staff and your family doctor can help ensure a safe and supportive environment for your child with allergies.

The post How to Set Up Your Kids Allergy Plan for School appeared first on The Mabelhood.

You can easily incorporate some Montessori principles into your summer routine that will make your life much easier, give your children independence, and have a fun and successful summer without overspending!

Embrace the wonders of nature: budget-friendly outdoor adventures. Plan for a mix of structure and free play each day. This balanced approach not only keeps your children engaged but also reassures you that you’re providing a well-rounded summer experience.

Montessori principles in your summer routine:

Morning predictable routine for kids:

Create a routine that starts the day with some structure—wake up, chores, breakfast, for example. This will create some predictability and keep the day stress-free.

Let them choose what they want to wear and get dressed on their own and look after their own needs as much as possible, this will foster their all-round development.

Mid-morning: free play!

Mid-morning, allow your kids to get outside for some free play. Morning is the best time for outdoor time, especially on those days when the afternoon sun can make it too hot. Gather some outdoor toys, or just allow them to play with what they find in the environment or dig in the garden etc. –  make them entertain themselves. It’s okay for kids to get bored!

Lunch: Let your kids help with food preparation

Foster some independence by allowing them to select from a few options for lunch and allow them to help in preparing it.

Encouraging children to participate in food preparation not only helps them develop practical skills, responsibility, and confidence but also allows them to contribute to the household.

Many parents also find that this helps picky eaters enjoy a meal more and become more adventurous with what they try if they’ve already touched the foods.  Empower your child by involving them in tasks that align with their abilities.

Afternoon: Structured activity for kids, like a playdate, craft or outing

Make a calendar with what activities you can do each week. Let your kids help make these decisions.

Encourage your kids to think about who they want to play with or where they want to go. Giving them options helps them learn to make decisions from a young age, so they can handle tough choices later on. Start with simple choices and then add more to help them get better at making decisions.

Structured summer activities for kids that are low-cost:

Something as simple as a play date can sometimes be the most memorable for kids. So, set up some time for kids to play with friends. Encourage them to pick the friends they’d like to play with or let them choose an activity to do; this can be a swim at the local pool, a trip out for ice cream, or a visit to the local library.

You don’t need to fill every afternoon with an activity, but let your kids pick a few things each week to look forward to. On the non-structured day you can go for a bike ride, play in the sprinkler or just allow them to have more unstructured time.

Instead of planning every activity, encourage kids to play and explore on their own. This approach helps them unleash their creativity, become more independent, and find what they’re into. When they really like something, think about ways to make it more challenging and fun for them.

Late Afternoon: quiet time!

After a full day of both free play and structured time, your kids have probably had adequate activity and fresh air. Now is often a good time to give them some quiet time; this can be a book, screens, coloring, or any other quiet activity they like to do that allows parents the chance to gather themselves, start dinner prep, and have some of your own quiet time, too.

It’s a time to sit without guilt – you deserve a break, too!

Montessori principles to think about this summer:

Build their self-belief and confidence by only stepping in to help when they really need it. Give them a chance to try, struggle, and figure it out on their own.

• Encouraging your kids to make choices and offering them options fosters a mindset focused on decision-making.
• Assigning them tasks and daily chores to help with household responsibilities and teach them valuable life skills and independence.
• Whenever possible, allow them to take the lead.

The post A Montessori Summer Break Schedule: Unleash Your Child’s Creativity at Home appeared first on The Mabelhood.

As a mom, I understand the importance of finding quality educational tools that ignite curiosity and foster a love for learning in our little ones. Here are the best educational apps out there, both free and paid, tailored to different age groups, from the early years of kindergarten to the advanced stages of middle and high school.

Kindergarten/Grade One: Embarking on the ABCs of Learning

For our youngest learners, educational apps should be like gentle guides, leading them through the wonders of early education while nurturing their budding curiosity and creativity.

Best Free Educational Apps for kids:

1. ABCmouse – Let your child explore a magical world of learning with ABCmouse, where they can dive into subjects like math, reading, and art through interactive activities and games.
2. PBS Kids Games – Delightful characters like Elmo and Curious George accompany your child on educational adventures, teaching early literacy and numeracy skills through fun-filled games and activities.
3. Endless Alphabet – With its whimsical animations and engaging puzzles, Endless Alphabet introduces young minds to letters and vocabulary in a playful and interactive way, laying the foundation for future literacy skills.

Best Paid Educational Apps for Kids:

1. Montessori Preschool – Inspired by the Montessori method, this app provides hands-on activities to promote learning in areas such as math, language, and practical life skills, fostering independence and curiosity in young learners.
2. Sago Mini World – Bursting with vibrant colors and imaginative play, Sago Mini World offers a collection of games designed to spark creativity and problem-solving skills in preschoolers, encouraging them to explore and imagine.
3. Reading Eggs – Watch as your early reader blossoms with Reading Eggs, where engaging activities and lessons help children develop phonics skills and improve reading fluency in a supportive and encouraging environment.

Grade Two to Six: Apps for Building Skills and Confidence

As children progress through elementary school, educational apps should act as companions, guiding them through the challenges of academic growth while keeping the learning journey exciting and rewarding.

Free Apps for building confidence in kids

1. Khan Academy Kids – Tailored to your child’s pace and level, Khan Academy Kids offers personalized learning experiences in math, reading, and social-emotional skills, empowering them to learn and grow at their own speed.
2. Duolingo – Turn language learning into a playful adventure with Duolingo, where colorful lessons and interactive exercises make mastering a new language feel like a fun challenge rather than a chore.
3. ScratchJr – Introduce your child to the basics of coding with ScratchJr, where they can create their own interactive stories and games using simple coding blocks, fostering creativity and computational thinking skills.

Paid Apps for building confidence in kids

1. Prodigy – Transform math practice into an epic quest with Prodigy, where engaging gameplay and adaptive learning technology motivate children to conquer mathematical concepts while embarking on exciting adventures in a fantasy world.
2. Toca Life World – Enter a world of endless possibilities with Toca Life World, where imaginative play and storytelling come to life in a vibrant digital playground filled with characters, places, and surprises waiting to be discovered.
3. Osmo Genius Kit – Blending digital gameplay with hands-on learning, Osmo Genius Kit offers a multisensory approach to education, with activities that cover a range of subjects, from math and art to problem-solving and critical thinking.

Grade Six and Beyond: Apps Exploring Advanced Concepts

For older children, educational apps should serve as mentors, guiding them through complex subjects and challenging them to think critically and creatively.

Free Apps grade 6 +

1. Google Classroom – Simplify virtual learning with Google Classroom, a platform that streamlines communication and assignment management, allowing students to stay organized and focused on their studies.
2. Quizlet – Mastering new concepts is a breeze with Quizlet, where flashcards, quizzes, and games make studying vocabulary and topics in any subject more engaging and effective.
3. TED-Ed – Ignite a passion for learning with TED-Ed, where captivating educational videos and thought-provoking lessons inspire curiosity and critical thinking in students of all ages.

Paid Apps for Grade 6 +

1. IXL – Personalized learning paths and detailed explanations make IXL a valuable resource for middle and high school students seeking comprehensive practice in math, language arts, science, and social studies, helping them build confidence and achieve academic success.
2. Codecademy – Dive into the world of coding with Codecademy, where interactive lessons and projects teach programming languages like Python, HTML, and JavaScript, empowering students to become creators in the digital age.
3. Duolingo Plus – Enhance the language learning experience with Duolingo Plus, offering ad-free lessons and offline access to a wealth of content designed to help students master new languages with ease and confidence.

To sum it up, educational apps are like little helpers in our pockets, making learning an exciting adventure for our kids. They’re like secret weapons, sparking curiosity, fueling creativity, and giving our children the tools they need to thrive in school and beyond.

Whether your little one is just starting out or spreading their wings into more advanced topics, these apps have got your back! So why not dive in and explore? With so many options out there, there’s bound to be something that’ll light up your kiddo’s eyes and make learning feel like playtime. Let’s unleash the power of educational apps and watch our tech-savvy kids soar to new heights! Looking for our top tv recommendations, check these out!

The post Best Educational Apps for Kids Who Learn Through Technology appeared first on The Mabelhood.

How to wash a baseball or soccer uniform

Your child’s team-issued uniform likely includes a jersey, hat, pants or shorts, and socks. There may be additional pieces such as a warm-up shirt or other spirit wear.

Without the official uniform, your young athlete can’t go on the field. As such, all pieces should be treated with extreme care during the washing process to avoid any damage, shrinking or discoloring.

Here’s a step-by-step game plan for uniform washing:

• Step 1: Label all uniform pieces with your child’s name and number, to prevent mix-ups with teammates. The Mabel’s Labels Kids’ Sports Label Pack is designed especially for this!
• Step 2: Check the tag for washing instructions. Many jerseys are made from high-tech moisture-wicking fabrics that may be designated as “cold water only” or “hang to dry.” Allow enough time in your laundry schedule for all pieces to air-dry before the next game or practice.
• Step 3: Aggressively pre-treat spots and stains, which could be anything from dirt, grass, sand, clay and turf to Gatorade or post-game ice cream. Generously apply your preferred stain remover product before laundering. You may find it helpful to pre-soak the uniform in the laundry tub, or scrub stain remover into the affected area with an old toothbrush.

A side note about laundry products: the best advice and recommendations come from other sports parents. Once at a tournament in Pittsburgh, I struck up a conversation with a random mom about the difficulties of washing white baseball pants. She happily shared all her trade secrets and laundry hacks — including one I still haven’t tried, which was to take an old-fashioned laundry soap bar, run it over a cheese grater, and add the grated-up flakes to the washload.

• Step 4: After proactively treating the stains, launder the uniform at the appropriate water temperature. Take advantage of any bonus features on your washing machine, such as “pre-soak,” “heavy soil” or “extra rinse”.

Try Laundry Stripping

If you’re finding that a regular laundry cycle isn’t enough to neutralize the sweaty smell, consider taking things to the next level with a strategy called “laundry stripping.” In this process, clean clothes are soaked in a tub with a mixture of water, Borax, washing soda and powdered laundry detergent. After four hours, the clothes should be gently wrung out and put through a final rinse cycle in the washing machine. If you’re seeking a deeper clean, check out this detailed breakdown and instructional video about laundry stripping.

Tips for washing baseball and soccer gear

Here are a few simple steps to keep your child’s important (and expensive!) sports gear in prime condition.

Washing footwear

Take cleats outside and remove all loose dirt and grass from the sole. Wipe dust and mud from the outer surface with a soft cloth. If shoes are wet from dew or rain, remove the insoles and set out to dry in the sun.

How to wash Soccer shin pads

On a busy tournament weekend, help keep bacteria away by spritzing shin pads with a disinfectant spray. A day off with sunny skies is a good choice for more elaborate cleaning. First, use a brush and soapy water to scrub the inner and outer surfaces. Then, soak the shin guards in a mixture of detergent and water for about 15 minutes. Rinse well and set outside in the sun to dry.

Most soccer shin guards can go in the washing machine — although it’s wise to check the tag or the manufacturer’s website to confirm. Place the shin pads in a tied pillowcase or delicates bag and use the gentle cycle. Air dry only — shin pads should never go in the dryer.

How to clean catcher’s gear for baseball or softball

A catcher’s leg guards and chest protector have multiple straps and buckles that aren’t well suited for the washing machine. It’s best to perform a full cleaning before or after the season, where each piece can be manually scrubbed with soapy water, rinsed well and hung outside to dry completely.

Washing baseball and softball helmets 

For a traditional two-piece catcher’s mask (similar to an umpire), clean the inner padding with a disposable disinfecting wipe.

Modern goalie-style catcher’s masks frequently have removable padded inserts that attach with Velcro. These pieces can be gently detached from the inside of the helmet and laundered separately in the washer, in a tied pillowcase or delicates bag. Dry outdoors or in the dryer on a low setting.

For batting helmets, the hard outer shell can be wiped easily, but the inner foam is typically glued in and is best left alone. On hot days, air out the helmet post-game so the inner padding is able to dry.

Tips for cleaning smelly baseball and softball gloves

Leather and water don’t mix, so avoid dunking a baseball glove in a washing tub or spraying it with a hose. Instead, manually clean it with a soft brush or towel, as suggested in these expert tips.

Similarly, batting gloves are made from specialized materials and require careful cleaning. Check the specific company’s website for care and maintenance instructions.

How to clean baseball caps

I don’t believe in those plastic cages that supposedly allow a baseball cap to be washed in the dishwasher or washing machine. In my experience, a soaking-wet hat is more likely to lose its shape, structure and proper fit. My best advice is to spot-clean the hat with a damp cloth and place it on a volleyball (or other appropriately sized ball) while drying.

With these simple tips, you’ll be sending your child out on the field looking clean, professional and ready to compete. After the game, remember to praise their dirty shirt or grass-stained pants, as it shows they’re trying their best!

Wondering how to wash hockey gear? Check out these tips!

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Glass baby bottles used to be made with lighter-grade glass that could break, which is why plastic baby bottles became the norm. However, glass baby bottles have changed significantly and are now viewed as high-quality products. Many new parents are finding the benefits of using glass baby bottles and discovering why they might be the perfect choice for you and your baby.

Are Glass baby bottles safer than plastic? 

One of the big advantages of glass baby bottles is that they are free from potentially harmful chemicals. Unlike plastic bottles, which may contain BPA or other harmful substances, glass bottles offer a safe. Now, that’s not to say that all plastic baby bottles are harmful; there are many reputable companies! However, glass is, without question, the non-toxic option for feeding your baby. This means you can have peace of mind knowing that your little one isn’t being exposed to any unwanted chemicals during feeding time.

Are glass baby bottles durable? 

Yes, glass baby bottles have excellent durability. Unlike plastic bottles, glass bottles are less likely to scratch and retain odors, ensuring that each feeding is as fresh and clean as possible. 

Glass baby bottles are made from tempered glass. 

Glass baby bottles are made from tempered glass, so they aren’t made of regular glass that will shatter into tiny sharp shards. They are five times stronger than regular glass, and if they break (dropped from a height or at the right angle), they will break into glass chunks. 

Glass baby bottles, and silicone sleeves 

Many modern glass baby bottles are designed with these breakage concerns in mind. With the new silicone sleeves and other protective features, glass baby bottles are now more durable and easier to handle than ever before. So, when shipping for glass baby bottles, look for a protective silicone sleeve if you are still hesitant about breakage. 

Glass baby bottles are also microwave and dishwasher-safe, making them convenient for busy parents and caregivers. Plus, Baby Bottle Labels stick to them really well – and they’re also microwave, dishwasher, and sanitizer safe!

The benefits of glass baby bottles – they are better for the environment!

 Glass baby bottles are environmentally friendly. They can be reused and recycled. Although check with your local recycling facility; not everywhere has the heat capacity to recycle tempered glass, so you may need to find the nearest recycling facility near you, or better yet – pass down to another expectant mother!.

They help reduce the amount of waste generated by single-use plastic bags and bottles.  

Glass baby bottles maintain the taste of the milk or formula. 

Glass baby bottles are a great choice for parents who want to provide their little ones with the purest feeding experience. Unlike plastic, glass does not contain any chemicals that could potentially compromise the taste and quality of the milk or formula (not that this happens often, so don’t fret if you’re using high-quality plastic; you’re probably fine).

With glass baby bottles, there is no potential for this, so you know that the taste and quality of the milk or formula remain uncompromised, giving your baby the best feeding experience possible.

The cons of glass baby bottles – they are heavier.

One of the common concerns about glass baby bottles is their weight, and rightly so! Carrying a baby and a heavy diaper bag is enough; adding weight is a very legitimate concern for parents. Glass bottles are definitely heavier than plastic bottles, so take that into mind when making your choice. Perhaps glass for home, but a few plastic on-the-go bottles, too.   

Make the decision that’s best for you and your family. For some, the peace of mind that comes with using a safe and non-toxic material may outweigh the pain of the added weight.

Also, check with your childcare center to make sure they are okay with glass bottles. Very rarely, they may prefer you use plastic over glass.

Here is a list of the 10 best glass baby bottles in 2024. 

The big benefits of glass baby bottles are their safety and durability to their environmentally friendly nature and pure feeding experience, glass baby bottles definitely have a lot to offer. So, if you’re considering which type of baby bottles to use, give glass baby bottles a try and see the difference they can make in your baby’s feeding journey; good luck, the feeding journey can sometimes be a tricky one- here is a great list of the best bottle for babies who refuse a bottle

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Boredom may seem like a negative experience, but it can actually encourage creativity, imagination, and self-reflection. Yes mama! It’s okay for them to be bored, so relax a little this summer! 

Some of the ways that boredom can benefit your kids. 

Bored kids use their imagination.  

When a child is bored, they are forced to rely on their own imagination to come up with things to do. This can lead to the development of new interests and hobbies, as well as the ability to entertain oneself without external stimuli. Provide them with music, or art supplies in the home, give them access to sports equipment or even just a ball in the garage, and they will find their way to them. Next, all the neighborhood kids are playing a game they’ve made up.  

Give them time to clear their head and think.

Boredom can encourage self-reflection and introspection. When a child is not constantly entertained, they are given the opportunity to think and reflect on their own thoughts and feelings. This can lead to a better understanding of oneself and the world around them. If they’re alone in their room for a bit (not too long; see the negatives of that below!), they will think, without external influence or stimuli, just think. 

Boredom can be a catalyst for creativity. 

When children are bored, they do not waste time; they are more likely to engage in creative activities such as drawing, writing, or building. This can lead to the development of important skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and self-expression. So, ignore their whining that they’re bored and give them access to a box, some glue, and markers; eventually, they’ll be bored enough to pick them up and create!  

Can boredom be bad for kids? 

It’s important to note that there is a difference between healthy boredom and excessive boredom. Too much boredom can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation, which can negatively affect a child’s mental health. So, make sure that you can strike a careful balance between providing stimulation and allowing for periods of healthy boredom.  

Look for signs of lethargy, or depression and make sure that they aren’t getting too bored. Always provide an outlet for them – but allow them to find there way there and figure it out. 

Allowing your child to experience boredom this summer can be a positive thing. It can encourage creativity, imagination, and self-reflection, all of which are important for a child’s development. So the next time your child complains of boredom, instead of immediately providing them with an activity, try encouraging them to use their imagination and see where it takes them.

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