Category: baby

  • Thanksgiving/Fall Books

     

    Ok, guys. I have a little secret: Thanksgiving books miiiiiight be my FAVORITE holiday genre (ok, ok…right after Christmas). I just looove all the rich illustrations and the sweet messages of family, story-telling, tradition, and gratitude. These are the kind of books that make you want to curl up next to the fireplace with your kiddos, a cozy blanket and some hot chocolate! I hope you like my picks & find something new to add to your holiday book collection! Don’t forget to scroll for picks from years past!

    And don’t tell anyone but I MIGHT like this year’s selection more than last year’s!

    enjoy

    thanksgivingbooks2019

    Ok, welllll, I had all intentions of keeping this year’s “new finds” to like 3 books, but holy SMOKES! I can’t believe how many precious books I dug up this year. I just had to share them all! (Click links for book descriptions to find your favorite few! )

    1. The Thank You Dish
    2. Apple Cake
    3. The Hundred Year Barn
    4. The Scarecrow
    5. Porcupine’s Pie
    6. The Thank You Book
    7. We are Family
    8. Home
    9. Today
    10. A Thank You Walk
    11. Tiny Perfect Things
    12. The Map of Good Memories
    13. The Little Gardener
    14. Thank you for Thankgiving
    15. Five Little Thank Yous
    16. Hello Harvest Moon
    17. A Very Thankful Prayer
    18. Leaves
    19. *The Little Guys
    20. Little Acorn
    21. Autumn
    22. *We Gather Together

    Thanksgiving2018.jpg

    (*= my personal favorites!)

    1. Nuts to You!
    2. *Sweep
    3. Peace is an Offering
    4. *Storm
    5. A Tree for All Seasons
    6. Fall Leaves
    7. Bear Has a Story to Tell
    8. Red Leaf, Yellow Leaf
    9. What was the First Thankgiving?
    10. Thomas Turkey’s Terrible Tricks
    11. Tap the Magic Tree
    12. *Thanksgiving in the Woods
    13. Awesome Autumn
    14. *Anne of Green Gables
    15. Tiny, Perfect Things
    16. Seeds and Trees
    17. Fall Mixed Up
    18. We’re Going on a Leaf Hunt
    19. Autumn Forest
    20. We Gather Together
    21. *Balloons Over Broadway
    22. Turkey Trouble
    23. A Plump and Perky Turkey
    24. The Scarecrow’s Hat
    25. *Thanksgiving Rules

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    1. Magic Tree House:Thanksgiving on Thursday
    2. *Goodbye Summer, Hello Autumn
    3. Little Red Hen
    4. This Little Turkey
    5. Because of an Acorn
    6. The Girl and the Bicycle
    7. Thanksgiving is Here
    8. The Little Yellow Leaf
    9. The Tale of Three Trees
    10. 10 Fat Turkeys
    11. When Autumn Comes
    12. Ask Me
    13. *The Giving Tree
    14. Thank You, Thanksgiving
    15. The Apple Pie Tree
    16. Yellowtime
    17. Fletcher and the Falling Leaves
    18. *Sharing the Bread
    19. Cranberry Thanksgiving
    20. The Thanksgiving Story
    21. Leaf Man
    22. Thanksgiving on Plymouth Plantation
    23. *The Relatives Came
    24. Thankful

    pin meLoveJordan

  • Holiday Gift Guide 2019

    Holiday Gift Guide 2019

    I can hardly believe it’s time for this post again, but here we are…prepping for Christmas and the Holiday Season. I’ve created this Kid’s Gift Guide because we all have those children in our lives- whether they are our own or a niece, nephew, etc. that we just don’t know what to buy for. I’m hoping this is a great jumping off point for you and that it helps you cross off some items on your list and get a head start on your holiday shopping!

    I’d like to start with something new this year- a little section about preparing for the season. As my children get older, I’m finding it more and more important to instill a sense of reverence, kindness, and GIVING as the focal points surrounding this otherwise commercialized holiday. I want them to understand the value of giving to those in need, of self-reflection, and of purpose. So we are using some of the ideas below to prepare ourselves for Christmas this year and I wanted to share.

    preparing

    • The Giving Manger (encourage good deeds and kind acts as you add straw to baby Jesus’ manger to prepare for His arrival Christmas morning. We do this every year and it’s the most beautiful tradition!)
    • The Advent Story Book  We are going to use this as a type of Advent Calendar this year. It’s neatly organized with 25 short stories leading up to Jesus’s birth. We will read one a day starting on Dec 1.  This Advent Story Book is a great version for younger children that includes a cartoon bear character, but with the same idea.
    • Nativity Set– We have collected pieces from Ostheimer every year that we use as a Nativity Set and I love that it is so beautiful but also kid friendly. However, it is costly and took time to collect the set. They do have a Nativity bundle, but it not cheap either. I suggest slowly collecting your favorite pieces over the years. (The pieces make for great Easter gifts as well and the kids can play with them all year long)  However, If you are looking for a precious, affordable set your children can play with and enjoy, I love this Fisher-Price Nativity set!

    books

    Christmas books are my absolute FAVORITE way to get into the holiday spirit. I’ve linked two of my Christmas Book Posts from years past: HERE and HERE!

    And now, My 2019 Kid’s Holiday Gift Guide:

    (Look out for stars(*) on my favorite new finds & for some hidden discount codes!)

    enjoy

    oldergirl

    1. light up tracing pad & carrying case perfect for your little artist
    2. Fortune Teller Making Craft Kit Do your girls love making these as much as mine do? I should probably get two because my girls will fight over this
    3. cat ear headphones
    4. *Custom Painted Globe Quin is very into globes right now and this one will look so cute in her new room! I got it customized to say “Adventure Awaits…”
    5. sleep mask
    6. paint by sticker Love these books for restaurants/travel
    7. Organic All Natural Bath Bombs both of my girls are into bath bombs and I try to keep their product ingredients as clean as possible, so I love this all-natural set
    8. Mini Speaker check the dimensions- its super tiny- but so cute for a bedroom!
    9. Faux-Fur Hooded Robe bath bombs, sleep masks, the only thing missing is a cozy robe! 😉
    10. Sherpa lap desk I’m going to fill this with this super cute Gratitude Journal , a Mom & Me Journal and some fun pens and stickers. Q loves reading & writing at bedtime!
    11. *Monogrammed sleepover bag Sleepovers are all the rage these days (even though I’m the overly-cautious, hesitant mother when it comes to sleepovers) but I figured Q needed some big-girl over-night pieces. Also, got her this monogrammed acordian pouch (love the separate pouches for underwear, hair stuff, toiletries, etc.)
    12. Slime Kit (yes I’m cringing as I type this)
    13. remote control car Q got this for her birthday and surprisingly, it was a hit!
    14. mani pedi lap desk
    15. Cat Coin Bank so cute on a dresser or bedside table

    For more girl gift ideas see this post and this post!

    Looking for some quality books to add to your little reader’s list? Click HERE for some of our favorite chapter books and read-aloud novels from this summer!

    littlegirl

    1. Doll Stroller Ardyn will most likely cart all of her stuffed animals around in this. I rationalized this stroller because if it’s going to be used and left all around the house, it might as well be pretty.
    2. *Realistic cat Ok, this this is both hilarious & freaky! It’s designed for elderly nursing home patients who need the love and companionship of a real animal without the care & responsibility. This little cat doesn’t come cheap but I’m thinking this might be my little animal lover’s “big gift” this year. Ardyn will FREAK!
    3. Calico critters Ardyn asked for some of these to use in her small pink Pottery Barn dollhouse we got her several years ago. (She’s grown out of the princess peg dolls she used to play with in there.) There are so many adorable accessories that come with these animals. For some of my fav dollhouses and dollhouse furniture, click HERE  and HERE.
    4. Unicorn dress up
    5. *Dinkum doll Dont’ forget the adorable dresses sold separately
    6. Doorables Ardyn is very into collecting these right now. I’ll probably open the box and stick some of the wrapped surprise packs in her stocking
    7. The Story Orchestra: Sleeping Beauty A listen & read book, set to the sound of Tchaikovsky’s original music. These books are so beautiful!
    8. *Spy glass child camera My girls are obsessed with picture-taking and I love the handle design of this one. So smart for little hands!
    9. Animal dress up case perfect for my animal lover
    10. Ice Pop memory game
    11. Cuddle & kind these stuffies are so gorgeous and proceeds go to a great cause!
    12. Barbie Dream Plane & pilot Dreading this giant piece of plastic taking up real estate in the playroom but when I told Ardyn “no”, she said, “ok, I’ll just ask Santa.” So into the cart it goes…
    13. doorables (…again, because I put it in twice and am too lazy to redo the collage)
    14. *TALKIES unicorn So, Q has the relay (a small device that connects to an app on the parents’ phone and functions almost like a walkie-talkie, replacing the need for a child to have a cell phone.) Well, this Talkies doll is like the younger kid version of the relay…without the $9.99 monthly fee! Ardyn will be able to sleep with her Talkie plush and message me or Ryan if she needs anything in the middle of the night. We can also set it up so she can send/receive messages from grandparents and cousins. You can also take the white mechanical box out of the plush and interchange it with other plush animals (there are versions for boys, too!) I love this Shark Tank find so much & I think Ardyn is going to love it too! Click on the link & watch the video to learn more about it!
    15. Frozen II Pop Adventures Love these little gems for travel/restaurants
    16. doll crib This crib is so pretty, Ardyn will love for her dolls and stuffed animals and and it won’t be a complete eye sore in her bedroom

    For more toddler/baby girl gift ideas see this post and this post!

    boy

    1. Super Hero action figures & spiderman bag for carrying action figures, because Max needs to bring his “guys” EVERYWHERE he goes
    2. castle
    3. rey to z hats (use code JORDAN20)
    4. tool bench
    5. marvel magnet tin set great for on-the-go play!
    6. recycling truck I love this brand and they have other vehicles in their line, too!
    7. firehouse (for action figures) I feel like this one is just the right size for playing on the floor or table
    8. superhero capes & masks Max is super hero obsessed and will flip over this dress up set!
    9. Ostheimer Wooden Toys (we get a few to add to our collection every year. They are pricey but the quality is unmatched & they last forever!) Holztiger is a similar brand that is a bit more cost effective & they look just as cute! Bet you can’t even tell the difference between the $34 one and the $18 one pictured above!
    10. rocketship night light would be so cute paired with the astonaut helmet below
    11. character potty & underwear because we are determined to get this boy potty trained, eventually. Should prob just throw in a bag of M&Ms & some reward stickers on the list while we’re at it!
    12. astonaut helmet so cute for dress up
    13. Little Blue Truck Books & pjs LBT is Max’s favorite book, so we are stocking up on the other books in the series!

    For more toddler/baby boy baby gift ideas see this post and this post!

    hearth&home

    Ok, this seems silly but Hearth & Home for Magnolia at Target killed it this year with their wooden toy collection. Linking some of my favs for you!

    1. Shaving Kit This Magnolia Line wooden shaving kit is EVERYTHING!
    2. Wooden Tree House– matches the big dollhouse of years past. Love it so much! If the big house is too much for you, check out this precious farmhouse! And you might as well grab this greenhouse & some extra furniture to go along with it all!
    3. Pool Set– We bought this last year for the dollhouse and it is a huge hit!
    4. Wooden Barn– I posted this last year but I just love it so much! I’d pair it with cuter animals. Like THESE or THESE. And with this tractor?! I die.
    5. Market Cart- So in love with this! Add some cute wooden food (more) & this cash register for extra fun play.
    6.  Kitchen Set One of the prettiest and simplest I’ve seen. It’s beautiful as is or if you are up for a little DIY this gem is full of potential!

    (Me: adds whole collection to cart. Thanks Targèt!)

     

    anyone

    Since I don’t know much about what older boys are into, I just created this “share/fun-for-anyone” category where there’s a little bit of everything for everyone!

    1. Wobbel has so many uses and is great for balancing & imaginative play
    2. Games: *Astro trash This is like a kid version of Left, Right, Center. It’s fast, fun and best of all, there are no “turns”- everyone plays at the same time. It’s a race to the finish to clear your planet of “astro trash” in outerspace. What am I? game a super cute guessing game for younger kiddos
    3. Stars projector night light Got one of these for the girl’s rooms. Its the perfect interactive night light, with multiple settings/light/star shows
    4. *Relay | case & lanyard So, we bought Q the relay recently and absolutely love it. It functions through an app on your phone and works like a walkie-talkie with pre-approved phone numbers (aka mine & Ryan’s). I love it because it has GPS so I can track her whereabouts, I can get in touch with her & vice versa, and basically replaces the need for a cell phone. It’s great for when she gets out of dance early or needs to get in touch with me on a play date. There is a $9.99 monthly fee. SUCH a great product for parents who aren’t yet ready to hand their kids a phone.
    5. Speak & spell recently spotted this classic at Target and I’m getting it for my little emerging reader! Looking for more educational resources? Check out THIS POST!
    6. *Cinemood Projector perfect for movie nights outside or in bedrooms without tvs!
    7. Tomato soup crayons & Passport travel journals Such a cute twist on “crayons and a doodle pad”. We are always looking for engaging, on-the-go toys and activities
    8. Rocker speaker chair for gaming, movie watching, etc.
    9. Mail carrier fun for imaginative play
    10. Mini foosball great for any table top
    11. Make a mask kit
    12. Customized denim jacket Want these for all the kids!
    13. *Mini Loog learning guitar Q has decided she’d like to learn guitar…you know, in all her free time. So I figured this 3 string learning guitar would be a good place to start before making a bigger investment.
    14. Hologram viewer
    15. Lunii My Fabulous Storyteller With this little device, kids choose different elements to make up their own stories and listen to them right away! They choose the hero, setting, second character and object of their story and then it’s story time! Great for bedtime or travel! Can be used with or without headphones and includes 48 audio stories and different languages can be selected on the Luniistore.
    16. Small Card Games: Joke Wars game my girls would be SO into this game, *Harry Potter Dobble This is basically the British version of spot-it, which is one of our favorite games. An HP version would be a total hit! Kids Table Topics Love these for dinner time, and for lunch boxes!
    17. Ping Pong turn any table into a ping pong table
    18. Magic Tricks Q is convinced she’s going to be a magician when she grows up.
    19. *Learning Piano |stand My most asked about gift item!! It works as a keyboard alone, or if you download the app and plug in your ipad, it functions as a learning piano with light up keys. My girls absolutely love their and still use it regularly!
    20. USA puzzle one of our favorites!
    21. *ATM Piggy Bank In love with this product! This talking ATM machine has a digital screen, a debit card, and an electronic calculator that counts real money. Also functions as a safe. So cool! Q would love this! (also comes in pink)
    22. Functioning Claw Machine How fun would this be for your kids, for play dates, for parties, etc.? Fill will surprise packs, small toys, candies, etc. So cool!
    23. *Chippo Ok, this is a great gift for your husband OR child! It’s like a golf version of corn hole and guess who loves playing it the most in our house? Ardyn! I think we just found her new sport.

    For more gift ideas for all ages see this post and this post!

    screen time

    1. Nintendo Switch  We aren’t into video games and we don’t own one of these, but I did grow up on the nintendo classics and love that this is a little self-contained video game system. It’s full of the classics and easy to use. (Note: downloaded content can only be played when connected to the internet)
    2. Osmo– We got this for Q a few years ago for her ipad and just recently installed it. She says she plays it at school sometimes and loves it! I love that its educational and she thinks she’s getting a treat with screen time. They have come out with so many fun add on games for Osmo. This year, I’m getting Q this dectective game and pizza game add-on!
    3. Tiggly– another educational ipad add-on program. Its similar in theory to the Osmo, but geared more towards younger children. It’s great for letter/shape/number/sound recognition!
    4. Viofit Q has been begging for one of these “fit bit” watches. It tracks steps and sleep, allows kids to earn coins by doing chores and achieving goals, & tells time. I also love that you can buy solid replacement bands!

    outdoor

    1. 20″ bike (ages 6-8)
    2. training wheel bike
    3. balance bike w/basket
    4. balance bike option 2
    5. tricycle
    6. adjustable scooter
    7. 3-in-1 tricycle to balance bike (getting this one for Max!)
    8. Helmets: solid helmets (ages 3-7) fun print helmets (ages 2-7)
    9. dodge tag
    10. net swing My girls’ favorite swing ever that we lost when our backyard “swing tree” died at our old house. So excited to get one of these for them for the new yard!
    11. air surfer swing We had one of these in our front yard at the old house and my kids absolutely loved it
    12. *hoverboards A most-used outdoor toy at our house. There is definitely a learning curve though. Took the girls a day or two to pick it up…I’m still learning. 😉
    13. *roller sneakers On my girls “wish list” this year
    14. fins A cute alternative to the popular mermaid tails that we’ve owned in years past and always make me so nervous
    15. Fun chalk: pizza chalk|building block chalk|solar system chalk
    16. ride on push car Great for babies who are sitting independently up to age 2-3.
    17. see saw Thinking about getting this addition for our backyard.

    For more fun outdoor gift ideas see this post and this post!

    Spotlight Idea: A Real Mail Center

    Teach your kiddos the art of snail mail! My girls will LOVE this. I’m creating this mail center in our house (& presenting it as a Christmas gift) in honor of our Aunt Patty who passed away a few weeks ago and who ALWAYS sent us the most fun mail.

    mail center

    A few items you’ll need:

    Desk Organizer (for supplies) | Cute stationary from Joy Creative Shop (use code HOLIDAY15) | Lined Paper | Fun Postage Stamps (love these cute animals!) |Colored Pens|Rainbow Pencils |Highlighters (Aunt Patty used to highlight alllll the important words in her letters) |Stickers |Different Sized Envelopes |Ink Stampers just for fun- love this emoji set|Small Address Book (with pre-approved addresses in it) |Return Address Stamp I had one made for the kids to use!|”Happy Mail” Envelope Tape for a fun way to seal envelopes| Play Mailbox |Outgoing Mail sticker (putting this on our play mailbox to give it “authenticity”)

    Get creative and make it your own! Whenever your kiddos put mail inside, make sure it’s addressed and posted correctly & ship it out! It will be so fun to see your kids’ excitement when they get letters back in the mail! Anyone want a new pen pal?  😉

    for you

    • THE acrylic calendar y’all keep asking about I love mine and I use these vis à vis markers and kimwipes on it (so you don’t scratch the acrylic.) I keep one of these small glass spray bottles filled with water right next to my markers and wipes.
    • Chatbooks make them for you, make them for the grandparents. They’re a hit, all around. Use my code: 9XNLLZ4N for your first book free (up to $10)
    • Isbell Family Films send some videos or photos over to Kalee at Isbell Family Films and she’ll send you a result that will have you in tears, wondering what took you so long. Gift these memories to yourself, or better yet, ask for an Isbell Family Film from family members this Christmas! Use code: JORDAN15 for $15 off
    • Melatonin I don’t know about you, but I need me some of these after all that shopping & planning. Whew!  😉

    And that’s a wrap, friends! I hope you can use this guide as a jumping-off point to get your lists checked off from the comfort of your own home; so that you can sit back, relax and be present with your families during the already crazy holiday season!

    LoveJordan

  • Educational Resources

    Educational Resources

    I get so many question about early education resources, so I figured I’d share my favorite tools in one place. Most of these games and strategies are tools I used in the classroom when I used to teach (pre-k, kinder, 1st and 3rd grades). I’ve continued using some of these tools at home when I feel my kiddos need a bit of a boost in a certain area. I should probably mention that I’m not huge on workbooks or flashcards so you won’t see that kind of stuff on this list- I feel like my kiddos get enough of that stuff at school. Granted, those tools definitely have their place. Now that Q is older she has nightly math fact flashcard practice, and we have some skill-builder books that we use in the summer but in general- I find that my kids learn best by doing, playing, and experiencing.

    Of course, ALL kids learn differently and my best advice to you is something a wise person told me a long time ago- “Reading is a lot like potty training.” Wait, hear me out on this…to paraphrase: Take your child’s lead, sense their interest level and readiness. You can introduce the idea and give adequate exposure (hopefully producing interest). But you’re going to get your best results if you wait until the child shows interest and readiness. Forcing the issue before they are interested/ready may backfire on you and mastery may not only take way longer but you could also create a general dislike for the concept.

     I hope you don’t feel pressured by this list, and I certainly hope you know that, for me, these tools/games do NOT take the place of outside play, laughing, building with blocks, making tents with couch cushions, riding bikes, or any other experience-based, imaginative,  free-play that our kiddos need and, in turn, are actually learning from! Let them be little!…and if you see your kiddo struggling a bit, here’s a list of a few ways you can try to support their learning in a fun & engaging way! 😉

    READING

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    Word Wheels Ardyn’s teacher introduced these to us this year and my little “reluctant learner” is LOVING them…with a capital L!!!!

     

     

    pocket chart with sight words Q and I used to play this with her sight word cards she’d get in pre-k. We’d use a combination of: this boxed set of common sight words, her school sight words cards that got sent home from school, and then we’d make our own cards with friends & family names, uncommon words, etc. on index cards. Then we’d practice making sentences in the pocket chart with the cards. She loved it!

     

     

    super genius letters | super genius words My girls love this card game- it comes in lots of different subjects and levels!

    71S2E31-OyL._SL1000_sight words bingo classic bingo with common sight words

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    boggle junior teaches word recognition and spelling!

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    BOB books Quin learned to read on these books. It’s just what worked for her. I feel like with Ardyn, we need a little more time with the word wheels and some fun games before moving over to these. She gets immediately turned off my anything that isn’t “fun”.

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    Phonics Spelling Game This was/is a favorite for both girls. I’ve shared it on my stories before. Ardyn and I just played it the other day.

     

    WRITING

    Writing Made Simple Letter Kids My girls loved these cards. You basically build the capital letters by placing different shapes (made to look like kids doing acrobatics) onto an overlay on a magnetic tray. (That sounded way more complicated than it actually is!) Since this set is so hard to find, I’ve linked something similar: HERE and HERE (same concept: building letters with shapes)

     

     

    51iplIHrovL

    This book technically is categorized as a learn to read book, but it’s great for writing practice as well. Two birds, one stone. Plus Ardyn thinks it’s fun because the subject matter is unicorns and rainbows! 😉 There’s also a workbook specific to (preschool level) writing and math

     

     

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    Handwriting Without Tear Magnetic screen and stamps HWT is my favorite handwriting and letter learning program! Both girls’ preschools and the school I used to teach at used this method! I suggest maybe getting a HWT workbook to go along with this set if you aren’t already familiar with it. Then maybe go download the song “Mat Man” on itunes as well!

     

     

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    I love this notebook for journaling because it has a space for drawing and writing on each page. My girls both use these for summer journaling!

     

     

    Motor Skills: I was recently told that Ardyn needs some help with her motor skills: pencil grip, letter formation, cutting with scissors, etc. These magnetic tracing boards are some of my very favorite tools for practicing motor skills. I LOVE the letter (uppercase | lowercase) and number tracing ones, but also love the free form board, because any form of utensil holding while drawing/writing is great for strengthening those fine motor skills! They even have cursive (uppercase | lowercase) ones that Quinlin loves!!

     

     

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    Wooden Puzzles Seems obvious, but these wooden puzzles were household favorites for learning ABCs & 123s as toddlers…plus, in my opinion so much better than a flashcard because it also teacher motor skills and hand-eye coordination

     

     

    MATH:

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    MagnaTiles Teaches early Geometry skills…kids will have NO idea they’re learning. All three of my kids love their magnatiles. 😉

     

     

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    Zingo 1-2-3 A fun number bingo game- teaches counting, number sense, patterns, relationships. (Ardyn also loves the WORD builder version of this game)

     

     

    Allowance Board Game & Monopoly Jr.  Both great games that teach money, making change, adding, subtracting, etc.

     

     

    61-EQ5w8Y6L._SL1024_Go Fish You’d be surprised how early you can play Go Fish with little ones. It’s the perfect game to introduce numbers. We used to play with our wooden puzzle numbers nearby as manipulatives in case we got stuck on a number!

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    Super Genius Addition For kiddos starting addition, such a fun game! Q loves it!

     

     

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    Motor Math Game Ages 4+, teaches +/- in a fun, fast-paced car race game

     

     

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    Pizza Math Several games in one- teaches early math skills, patterns, grouping, critical thinking, hand-eye coordination

     

     

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    Super Sorting Set Helps with matching, patterning, classifying, sorting, counting.

     

     

    Rainbow Fraction Tiles OR Fraction Tower Cubes (for those little lego lovers!) These tools are great for younger kids just to play with (they’ll be inadvertently learning) and great for older kids who may need some visual/hands-on help with fractions! I bought these for Q recently who is in the middle of a “parts & whole” unit at school and she loves using these to help with her homework.

     

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    Wooden Puzzles Like I mentioned above- we LOVE these puzzles. And we took the numbers off the puzzle and used them in so many different ways. I found it so helpful for the kids to have a 3-D number they could hold, trace, examine and manipulate in their hands. Really cements learning for those visual/tactile learners. (Same goes for the letters)

     

     

    Telling Time: I love this fun “What Time is it?” Game for ages 5-9, a fun way for kiddos who are learning time telling to practice. Also, I’ve had one of these Big Time learning clocks in my classroom for as long as I can remember. I LOVE that the hour hand moves AS you move the minute hand, to show true-to-life clock settings, I do wish however that the hour marker said “00” instead of “60”. If you want a two-for-one deal, I LOVE this Time Telling kit which includes a smaller version of the Big Time learning clock plus interactive tools for playing time-telling games!

     

     

    EDUCATIONAL “SCREEN TIME” TOOLS:

    Osmo Genius Kit for ipad |Tiggly for ipad We aren’t huge on screen time in our house, but when they kids are on ipads, it needs to be educational. We got these sets for the girls for Christmas last year and they are great!

     

     

    “FREE” RESOURCES:

    You don’t NEED all the fancy expensive games to help your child get a jump start on learning. Here are some totally free ideas that you can do with things you probably already have lying around the house.

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    images via pinterest
    • Get a baking sheet and some magnetic letters- boom a homemade magnetic learning game
    • Draw out the letters of the alphabet on some paper. Give your kids some play dough and have them “roll the dough” and then place it over the letters you’ve drawn out to form the letters and/or numbers
    • Get kitchen tongs, a muffin/cupcake pan or an ice tray and a bowl of colored pom poms. Have your kid use the tongs to sort the poms by color or number or size. Fine motor skills, counting, and sorting/categorizing skills!
    • Get a baking sheet with a taller lip around the edge. Pour some kinetic sand or shaving cream inside. Have your child draw the letters in the sand/cream.
    • Fill a giant ziplock with several colors of paint. Tape it shut, then tape it to the counter/table. Have kids mix the paint colors and “draw” out letters/numbers inside.
    • Get your wooden puzzle (linked above). Dump all the letters or numbers into a plastic bin filled with sand, water beads or any other sensory material. Have your child go fishing for letters/numbers. Once they dig one out, they need to place it in it’s correct spot on the puzzle.
    • Go on a nature walk: talk about the animals, people, trees and cars you see. Talk about sounds, colors, shapes, and letter sounds
    • Get a piece of cardboard and write all the capital letters around the sides. Then get large clothespins and write the lower case letters on them. Have you child match upper and lowercase letters by clipping the clothes pin onto the correct letter.
    • Grab some letter cookies (Trader Joes has them) and print out (or just write) the ABCs on a piece of paper and have your kids match the letters. If they match correctly, or better yet- can name the letter sound, they get to eat the cookie!

    Pinterest is FILLED with great ideas. Just search “Early Learning Activities”

     

     

    EDUCATIONAL WEBSITES:

    (some may require membership and/or school registration so contact your school and ask if they have a log-in you can use!)

    ABCya

    ABC Mouse

    Starfall

    Spelling City

    Reflex Math

    IXL

    PBS Kids

    Brain Pop

    FunBrain

    Curious World

    NatGeo Kids

    Kiddle (kid safe search engine)

    Happy Learning, Friends! Let me know if you have any questions!

     

     

    *Updated Section*

    QUARANTINE ACTIVITIES:

    For a full list of creative games and free activities to keep your kids busy during this crazy time, see THIS POST!

    activities

     

    LoveJordan

    pin me

    edresources

  • Easter Pajamas

    Easter Pajamas

    A round up of a few of my favorite Easter/Spring pjs for kiddos!

    Easter Pjs.jpg

    1 |2 |3 |4 |5 |6 |7 |8 |9 |10 |11 |12 |13 |14 |15 |16

     

    And don’t forget your slippers….gingham-sherpa-slippers-o

    Happy Egg Hunting, friends!

    LoveJordan

  • Easter Baskets

    Easter Baskets

    It’s that time again– Spring is only a few short months away and it’s time to start thinking about what to fill those Easter Baskets with! Easter Baskets can be tricky, especially right on the heels of Christmas and Valentine’s Day- so I put together a few ideas based on what we used to get growing up!

     

    Our “Easter Bunny” used to always bring us the same few things:

    -New Pjs (or something cozy)

    -Something fun for the upcoming summer months (think: sandals, bathing suits, a fun towel, new goggles, etc.)

    -Toys that encouraged outdoor play (jump ropes, chalk, bubbles, sprinklers, etc.)

    -New Art supplies or a game

    -And of course, our baskets were always topped off with some fun knick-knacks and a big old Chocolate Bunny!

    I try to stick to those same categories when planning out my own kids’ baskets and I came up the following lists based on them as well!

    Hoppy Shopping!

     

    baby
    Zozu Baby Headband| bath toy| personalized blanket |Good Night You book|yogurt melts|dimpl|girls pjs |boys pjs |sophie |shark rashguard|wooden beads |Tubby Todd bath stuff|boys  swim set|jelly tails book|girls swim|sunscreen|Jellycat bunny| girl bib|boy bib

    toddlergirlEllia May Bow|princess book|rainbow bag |unicorn bracelet|goggles| breakfast pjs |non toxic dough|slippers|mermaid coloring book|crayons|rainbow sprinkler|What Do I Do? Conversation Cards|unicorn chalk|swim suit|Cinderella sound book |dress a bunny coloring book

    older girlwords to live by coloring book |rainbow float|sunnies|shark pjs|tennis gumballs|fine markers|polaroid|Lol Hair Goals|rainbow tote|Natural Organic Bathbombs|jump rope|candy tackle box|swimsuit |eeboo puzzle |nailmatic nailpolish|hair poms|stitch up book|5,000 Awesome Facts book|glitter backpack|non toxic makeup |fuzzy slippers|memory game|VanGogh on-the-go|picture book|magnashapes

    toddler boytide pool bath set|outerspace coloring book|non toxic crayons|non toxic dough|shark pjs|dino roll mat|baby lit book |stackable blocks|3-2-1 blast off book|magnifying glass|foam bat and ball|pirate ship pool & sprinkler

    olderboydodge/tag game|mini air hockey|goggles|hat|swim trunks|chalk tagging|pizza party game|5,000 Awesome Facts Book|shark float|marvel magnet tin|shark flops |pocket microscope|slippers|mash’ems|nightball

    baskets

    Lastly, I’m a big fan of traditional Easter baskets, however I also like the idea of re-purposing a container you’ve got laying around, or buying one you’d like to use again after Easter- whether it be a toy, a suitcase, or a cute crate for storage. Here are a few ideas  for alternative Easter baskets!

    traditional Easter Basket|Olli Ella Suitcase|crate|Pillowfort Rope Basket|animal baskets|Luggy Basket

     

    And, for Last Year’s Ideas, click HERE!

    pin me

    Easter

  • Favorite Christmas Pjs!

    Favorite Christmas Pjs!

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    Pour the hot coco and put on your favorite Holiday movie….it’s Christmas Jammie time, people!!! Christmas pjs are my absolute FAVORITE and I’ve rounded up some of the sets I’m loving this year! Why now? It’s only mid-November! Well, because just like with popular gifts, some of these pjs will sell out…and if you want matching sets for your family (or just for your kiddos), it’s smart to stock up now. Then you’ll have them tucked away for whenever you’re ready to deck your halls…and your babes! I’m allllll about getting things done early this year so that I can actually enjoy December!

    One note…just make sure you look at BOTH the girl and boy lists because there are a TON of pjs that are unisex and I was just too lazy to put them in both categories!

    Merry, Merry friends!

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    girls pjs

    1 |2|*3|4| 56 &  matching sister set (7) |8|9|10|11|*12|13 |14|15|*16 |17 |18 |19 |20 |21 |22|23|24 |25|*26|*27|28|

    *=favorites!

    boys pjs

    1|2|3|4 (comes in baby, toddler, and big boy)|5|6|7|*8|9|*10|11|12|13|14|15|

     blue santa|*16|17|18|19|20|21|*22|*23 (comes in baby, toddler, and big kid)

    *=favorites!

    And P.S. I’ve ordered my kids’ Holidays jams already and we plan on wearing them immediately when they arrive. We jingle ALL the way, around here… 😉

  • THE Baby Favorites Post

    THE Baby Favorites Post

    Here it is- finally! The Big Baby Favorites Post I’ve been promising!! I get asked lots of questions on Instagram about my favorite “this” or “that” or get asked to link an item Max is using. SO, I figured it’d just be easier to compile one, big, easy-to-navigate blog post with ALL the information I could think of! Now you can come back and reference it, or shop anytime you want!

    A few things to note: this list is not a comprehensive registry check list, but instead a list of my personal favorite baby gear and products that I’ve discovered or used along the way! If I’ve left anything off, that you were really hoping for, please let me know! I did have some requests for favorite clothing shops and for baby toys/activities but I think for clothing just check out my instagram posts, I usually tag the shops I buy from! And I think “activities” apply more to older babies/toddlers and that’s going to have to be a separate post, seeing as how this one is already a full encyclopedia!

    I’ve divided everything in categories below and you can shop/explore one of two ways:

    1. By clicking the corresponding numbers under each collage    OR

    2. By reading the “details” section under each collage and clicking the links found there!

    I hope you find this post helpful!

    enjoy

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    Feeding Details:

    Boppy Covers- I love these beautiful linen covers by Madly Wish. The colors are so pretty and I never felt like my boppy was an eyesore when I left it out on the couch after nursing (which was always). They are soft and easy to clean. Max still uses his to drink his bottles! And guess what? They have so graciously offered to give you 20% off with code: JORDAN!!

    Oxo Bibs- There are SO many cute bib options out there so let me tell you why I love these: The top is soft (so it’s not a big ring-o-rubber around babies neck) but the bottom (where the food falls) is the durable silicone, so it’s easy to wipe clean. Also, there is a little pocket down at the bottom of the bib to catch spills and crumbs. For the life of me, I can’t understand why all bibs don’t have these little pockets! Of course, I’m talking about bibs for when your baby starts eating food- not for just “milk bibs”. My fav cloth “milk bibs” are from Copper Pearl! Use code PEARL10 for 10% off Copper Pearl goodies!!

    Spoons & bowls- Love Avanchy. I also love that they now have stainless steel options!

    Bottles- I LOVE Como Tomo so much! We tried every brand of bottle for our fussy/colic babies and this brand has been our favorite we’ve found in 7 years! I love that they are silicone and squishy. They are super easy for baby to hold/squeeze and super easy to clean (the mouth is so wide, you can literally stick your whole hand in there to clean them!) I also appreciate that these bottles are only TWO pieces to clean as opposed to a million pieces, like many of the other “colic preventing” bottles on the market! (Stay tuned for a fun giveaway with Como Tomo coming soon!)

    Bottle Drying Rack– We found this one was small and sleek enough for the kitchen counter and still had lots of room for several bottles and tops to dry at one time. Bonus points- if you use como tomo, your bottles only have two pieces that you need to hang! 😉

    Formula- I don’t want to start a debate or go into detail here but let’s just say- I’ve done my fair share of research on baby formulas. I had grand plans to breastfeed all my babes for a long period of time, but my cards played out differently for each baby and I had to learn to go with the flow & remember that “Fed is best”! We’re all just doing the best we can! That being said, when I had to go the formula route pretty early on with Ardyn, I did extensive research. I looked into ingredients in mass marketed formulas and made lists and spreadsheets. No formula is perfect, but these are the ones I have used. Baby’s Only is my favorite, but it is marketed as a “Toddler Formula” so it apparently has extra macro & micro nutrients in it. Be sure to check with your pediatrician before using.

    • First Choice: Baby’s Only Organic (I buy mine at Whole Foods. They have several options so please look at the ingredients in each and determine which specific formula of theirs is right for your baby. I linked the one I used.)
    • Second Choice: Happy Baby Organic (they have different stages for different ages, so make sure you buy the correct one!)

    Food- I made all the kids’ baby food for the first few months. But, then I switched over to pre-packaged when good ol’ life got in the way of whipping up batches of pureed carrots every week. Here are some brands that I like:

    • Happy Baby Pouches I love that the packages are clear and that the ingredients are organic and minimal. Certified USDA Organic; Non-GMO Project Verified; Gluten Free; Kosher; No added sugars or artificial flavors!
    • Nurture Life is a weekly meal delivery service that sends you fresh, wholesome, organic baby foods with several different “stages” to choose from. Use code JORDAN for $30 off your first order!

    High Chair Bloom Fresco I know it’s (very!) pricey but we’ve had this same highchair for SEVEN years and it still looks good as new! The best part is- you can change out the seat cover color & buy spare parts off their website as things start looking like they need to be refreshed over the years. Plus it reclines & acts as a sort of “baby cradle” for those early months and then transforms with the baby as they grow. If this is your last babe, you may not want to make the investment, but if you are just getting started having babies- this high chair is highly recommended to last you through the years!

    sleeping

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    Sleeping Details:

    Binkies – I loved this brand so much, even though Max decided early on that he wasn’t a binky-boy. 😦

    Gowns & Footed Pjs – Kickeepants will forever hold a special place in my heart and JUST when I thought it wasn’t possible to love them anymore, they went and came out with zippered pjs. Also, their newborn gowns are ESSENTIAL for those first few months. They make those middle of the night diaper changes SO much easier!

    Sound Machine – My kids have always loved the “ocean” sound for their white noise at night and I love how compact this one is for travel.

    Baby Shusher– This thing is AWESOME! We used it mostly as an on-the-go sound machine- on airplanes, in his stroller, carseat, etc.

    Monitor– The Nanit is my favorite monitor we’ve ever used. It comes with your choice of a stand or a wall mount and it watches your baby from above. It connects with your phone and can alert you when there is sound/movement or when the temperature in the room is out of range. It tracks your baby’s sleep patterns and how many times you go in to soothe at night. It gives you a live feed as well as “recap” videos, insights, and activity summaries. You can sign up for a $10/month plan and get emails with full breakdowns of your child’s sleep habits and it gives you sleep training tips based on the activity it has gathered from the month. This thing is BOMB! My favorite part is when Ryan and I are out on a date night, I can open the app in my phone and watch a live feed of Max snoozing away! Also, the other night, our NEST thermostat went a little haywire and the Nanit alerted me immediately that the temperature in Max’s room had dropped below optimal temperature. We went in to check and his little fingers were so chilly! No wonder he wasn’t sleeping well!

    Swaddles: Ok, I’m breaking this up into two categories, muslin swaddles and non-muslin swaddles. MY muslin favs are the “deluxe” ones from Little Unicorn Official. The “deluxe or bamboo” ones are the softest of the bunch and are SUPER lightweight- and the designs are SO cute! Max loves to snuggle with these and Ardyn still sleeps with all 500 of hers.|My non-muslin favorites, hands-down are the stretchy blankets from Copper Pearl. They are soft like butter and are SO good for getting a nice snug swaddle! We have quite the collection of these! Don’t forget to use code PEARL10 for 10% off Copper Pearl goodies!!

    Sleep Sack- I’ve tried them all. These are my absolute favorite and I shouldn’t be surprised because they are by my fav pj brand, Kickee Pants. Max uses his every night and literally cuddles right into it the second we put it on him. It’s the softest thing I’ve ever felt and I’m working on getting them to make one in my size…

    Bassinet – I loved this Monte Design Bassinet because it was sleek looking and was going in our bedroom. (Call me crazy but I’m not a huge fan of big plastic/brightly colored baby gear all over my house.) Also, the small Dock-a-tot fit perfectly inside and so did our Plum and Sparrow Moses basket. (I also always loved the Moba Baskets too!) Anyways, this bassinet was so great for those early months. I’ve passed it down to my sister because it’s just so beautiful and I NEED to see another baby in it! If you’re looking for a cheaper option- this Halo Bedside Bassinet is pretty awesome too! Or if you love the look of the rocker bassinet- THIS one is a really nice cheaper option!

    Pack & Play – Loved this Nuna Sena play yard. We kept Max in our room beyond the point of him outgrowing his bassinet. This was a great transition crib. It has an higher insert for smaller babies and was super easy to fold up and put down. We still have it and use it if we are traveling to a friend’s house for dinner, or a day at the pool and we need a place for him to nap or play safely.

    Air Sense Air Purifier This allows you to monitor and purify the air in baby’s room. “By detecting temperature, humidity, and harmful elements in the air—such as carbon monoxide, methane and ammonia—this smart air purifier releases negative ions and alerts you of indoor air quality using a free app. Two-way audio speakers connect to your Wi-Fi to play music or a recording of your voice to help soothe baby, while customizable light colors provide entertainment and sleep therapy.” This is by no means a “must-have” unless you are up all night worrying about baby like me. If so, this thing just gives you extra peace of mind.

     

     

    onthego

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    On-The-Go Details:

    Cybex Carseat & Stroller System- I can’t say enough about this car seat! My only complaint was that it was heavy- but in my experience most of the car seats with the highest safety ratings tend to be a bit heavier. My favorite feature of this car seat was that it can fully recline when hooked onto the stroller base or out of the car. Perfect for turning your upright car seat stroller into more of a bassinet stroller and I loved it for when Max fell asleep in the car; I could transfer him into the house, recline the seat and not worry about him being all scrunched up! Go check it out and read up on it yourself!

    Side Note: Can I just say, even though we didn’t buy it, I’m slightly obsessed with the idea of the Doona carseat/stroller. It’s a carseat that transforms into a little stroller- it’s one piece, you guys. ONE!

    Diaper Bag & Organizer – If you saw my IG stories you will know that this duo is a match made in “diaper bag” heaven!

    Travel Stroller | cheaper version – I LOVE the Pockit for travel because it is so light & folds up so small you can put it in the overhead compartment of the airplane! They just came out with a new version that reclines and has a rounded hood! I’ve linked them both!

    Nursing cover/ Carseat cover/ Shopping Cart Cover – Copper Pearl is my Favorite!  I still use my covers for high chairs and shopping carts for Max ! Use code PEARL10 for 10% off any Copper Pearl goodies!!

    Binxy Baby– Shopping Cart Hammock. Takes up so much less room than the huge carseats in the back of the cart..so you can actually fit, you know- groceries! I LOVED this, but unfortunately Max is too big for it now. I’d say this really only lasts until your baby can sit up and/or roll over.

    Wagon- Carting around a whole family? Heading to the zoo, beach, or a million soccer games?! This Keenz wagon is LIFE! It folds up, has a fold down storage compartment that fits it’s very own insulated mini cooler, it has an attachable canopy that has fold down panels on each side, and even cup holders and phone storage! If you need to see more, go check out my “shop” highlight reel on IG. This wagon is life-changing! Totally replaces any “double stroller” needs for us! BONUS: Use code JORDAN18 for a discount! (They are restocking more colors next week!)

    Baby Carriers-

    • Favorite Sling- Sakura Bloom super comfy & easy to get baby in & out!
    • Favorite Wrap- Solly Baby (takes a minute to learn to tie but then its super easy!)
    • Favorite heavy duty carrier- Ergo Baby wore this one for hikes or long hauls!

     

     

    play

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    Playtime Details:

    Play Gym- This is a fun little toy for when baby is still laying down but is grabbing and chewing on toys. It’s great for when you need a few minutes to shower, do laundry, etc. Max even played with it once he learned to sit up. I liked how it wasn’t an eyesore to have around the house and that you could strap different toys onto it! Max lost interest in this around the time that he started crawling.

    Jumper- This was a big hit once Max could sit up on his own. It’s great for leg muscle strengthening . I prefer this kind, where the baby’s feet touch the actual floor, as opposed to the jumpers with the plastic tray bottoms. I think it gives the baby more control over the bounce & movement.

    Bounce Chair- Max loved this chair in his early months. I loved the sleek design and how it bounced itself with the slightest movement from Max.

    Stuffed Animals- BlaBla & Jelly Cat ! All of my kids have loved these two brands. My girls still sleep with theirs from when they were babies to this day! And I’m SO excited to share that BlaBla has offered you guys a 15% off code!!!! Just use JORDANCO15 at checkout! K, bye…I’m off to shop!

    Books – Even the smallest babies can be read to and BabyLit books are my fav because the pictures are bright and colorful and the text is so simple and direct. Max still loves to look through these books together!

    Toys/Rattles Babies don’t really need a ton of “toys” but as they start gripping and chewing, I do prefer toys made of natural/organic materials for them to have in their mouths 24/7. The Tot and Banner Toys are two of my fav shops for finding  fabulous and safe chew toys and rattles! Great News: Bannor Toys is giving you guys an exclusive discount! Use code JORDAN10 until 5/31 for 10% off! (excludes bannor boxes, limited toys, and furniture)

     

     

    diapering

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    Diapering Details:

    Wipes- I’ve been using these Water Wipes since the day they came out and I’ve never looked back! They are 99.9% water with a drop of fruit extract. Can’t get purer than that!

    Babyganics Diapers- I’m all about the organic diapers. Diapers actually contain lots of junky chemicals and they are the one product that is touching your baby’s most sensitive skin 24/7. So, I go organic- just a personal preference. Another fav are the Seventh Generation brand. I waver between the two when I’m out shopping!

    Diaper Cream- Honest brand is my fave because of the low EWG rating (1) and because it actually works. In “tough” rash cases, we use Baby Boudreaux’s Butt Paste Maximum Strength because of the high level of zinc oxide. I also love mixing coconut oil with a few drops of frankincense essential oil for a homemade rash salve.

    Bum Spatula- If you don’t own one of these, click this link and buy 50 right now. Ok, maybe not 50, but enough for every diaper change station in your house. And one for your car and one for your diaper bag! These are diaper cream applicators. No more messy fingers…in places they don’t need to be! This little tool is washable and has a suction cup bottom so you can secure it in place without making a huge mess between applying cream and finishing the diaper change!

    Hatch Baby Changing Pad AND Scale! I wanted this SO badly for Max but we just didn’t spring for it. How cool would it be to be able to track your baby’s growth at home!? This is from the website: “the smart scale records baby’s weight and sends the results to your smartphone app. The app also tracks how many diaper changes baby is getting, so you can share with your pediatrician and see if baby is getting enough to eat at each feeding!”

    Dekor Hands Free Diaper Pail – I forget what we had before this one, but I felt like it always stunk! I’ve never had that issue with this one. So it gets a thumbs up from me! Don’t forget your biodegradable pail refills!

    Gathre Changing Pad– We have one of these sweet little leather mats in the living room and in my diaper bag! I also keep one in the back of my car for emergency changes!

     

     

    bath

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    Bathing Details:

    Baby Shampoo & Lotions – I’m a bit of a nut about safe ingredients in products- both mine and my kids! Tubby Todd has been my favorite for years now. The shampoos and bubble baths are gentle enough for the newest skin and they smell amazing as well! Their line has expanded so much since I first started using them, and now they have conditioner and detangler which I still use on my girls!

    Bath support – I’ve tried all the bath supports- from the puj tub to the big flower cushion thing…and this one is my fav! I love it because it fit in my sink, was easy to clean (and dry!) AND once Max got bigger, I could also use it in our big bath tub!

    For babies who are sitting up, but still slipping and sliding around a big bath tub, this Summer Infant anchored bath seat is pretty cool!

    Baby Bath Towels- Can I just say, as a mom who has done this three times…skip the fancy hooded baby towels (or get one or two if you must), the regular towels you already own work just as good. Excess “baby specific” towels are just a waste of money. If you really want to get one for those early newborn days, I loved this Hands free Puj Infant Towel.

    Bath Caddy– I used this one from Amazon to keep my Tubby Todd products, a few washcloths, and 1-2 baby bath toys in. I kept it stocked and ready for bath time.

    Bath Toys for Baby- They don’t need much when they are tiny, just a few things to grab and chew on. Toys for older kids will need to wait for another post. But in general I stick with simple, mold/mildew free bath toys. Here are a few of my favorites for babies: ducks | color changing bath book |boats

    Drain Cover- I’ve used this Boon Starfish since Q was a baby. Works in the sink & tub.

     

     

     

    sunscreen

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    Sunscreen Details:

    Ok, this one’s a doozy. But, summer is upon us and there’ve been multiple requests for my favorite, most trusted sunscreens, so here’s my two cents:

    There is such a great debate about sunscreen danger vs UV danger. I get both sides and am aware and have a healthy, respectful fear of the dangers of both. I guess it boils down to this- I try to use barrier protection (hats, UV rashguard swim suits, sunglasses, and shade) as my first method of protecting my kids from the sun. But of course, they also need sunscreen. So, by now we all know that I’m super picky about safe ingredients when it comes to the products I buy and put on my family. Amplify that pickiness by 100 when it comes to sunscreen. Sunscreen has some of the MOST dangerous and most toxic ingredients and reading about it makes my skin crawl.  I try to follow EWG guidelines as often as possible with all products, but especially sunscreen. EWG (Environmental Working Group) rates each product on a scale of 1-10, 1 being the safest and 10 being the most toxic. It also gives you a list of each ingredient in the product, rates each ingredient, and tells you why it could be a potential toxin OR why it is safe. I love this site and actually have the app on my phone for easy access and for scanning products when I’m out shopping! I also always try to read up on the “Best Sunscreens of the Year” lists they put out annually. If you want to read a bit more about sunscreen safety, HERE is another article for you. But if you just want to know my favorites (based on the guidelines of both articles), here they are:

    And here’s the deal, we’re “not supposed to use sprays”. But let’s be honest…it happens. (With me anyways-especially on busy beach trips!). So here’s what I do. I look for the spray cans made by any of the above brands. Most of them are rated a “3” Which, in my opinion isn’t terrible for something you aren’t planning on using every single solitary day. A few of my fav spray brands with the best ratings that I’ve used are:

    Note: When using these more “natural” sunscreens it is KEY to apply generously and frequently- especially when you are out in the sun all day and/or swimming!

    *And since this post is all about BABIES- Please make sure you check with your pediatrician to see when you are allowed to start applying sunscreen on your baby. Most doctors don’t advise slathering on sunscreen before 6 months of age. More on that HERE.

     

     

     

    monthly

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    Monthly Marker Details:

    • You ALL know my absolute number one favorite are the numbered onesies by my girl Jen at Swanky Shank. She does SUCH a good job and they are customizable so you can get them in basically any color felt/onesie you want! And Woo-Hoo, use code FRIEND10 for 10% off!!
    • Another Fun option for monthly pics are these cool monthly milestone chalkboards  by Chalk Designs by Me. Use the code JORDAN10 for 10% off!
    • And I’ve always loved these milestone blankets from Batz Kids. They have so many different styles to choose from and they are just the sweetest! Use code JORDAN15 for 15% off- but HURRY code is only active for 48 hours!

     

     

    BabySafety

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    Baby Safety Details:

    Can I just start by saying that if it’s in the budget, I HIGHLY recommend hiring a professional baby-proofer to come do this job. I thought it was going to be insanely expensive but you can have them do as much or as little as you want. For us, we had him lock all the cabinets/drawers downstairs, secure a few pieces of furniture to the walls, and cover the fire place. (We already had baby gates on the stairs!) It took all the worry out of wondering if we had done it right or covered all of our bases! If you or your hubby are extra handy & want to do it yourself, here are some products we love & use!!

    Cabinet/Drawer locks: Magnet Key | Push Latch Both have pros/cons. We wound up mixing it up in our house. Super “dangerous” cabinets (i.e. cabinets with cleaners or lots of products or medicines, etc.) and cabinets we don’t go into very often (aka the tv boxes and electrical av gear) all got the magnet locks. I thought I would HATE these and lose the magnet keys day one- but I actually love them so much- they were SO easy to install (I installed all of these myself!)…and here’s a little tip for storing your key….they stick right to your metal outlet covers! We keep our “kitchen key” right on one of the outlets on the kitchen counter! The push latches are great for drawers and cabinets that don’t have dangerous items and are places you need to get into 25 million times a day & don’t have time to grab a key to open (like kids dishes, cups, pots/pans, etc.) I call these the “annoyance factor” locks as opposed to “safety factory” locks! 😉

    Furniture & TV securing belts: super important and something I think often gets overlooked in baby proofing! We secured any tvs that weren’t on wall mounts and extra tall or heavy furniture (think dressers and bookshelves…which kids see as ladders!)

    Outlet covers : Love that these work OVER anything you have plugged in! And don’t forget your standard plug in covers for those unused outlets.

    Fireplace Cover: This was “the beaut” that our baby-proofer put over our fireplace. It’s ugly as sin but it keeps Max from grabbing the tiny (choking hazard) stones that are in there & it’s pressure mounted so super easy to remove if you have guests over or want to light a fire! Be sure to measure your fireplace opening first!

    Toilet Seat Locks: I like these because they don’t require adhesive.

    Stair Baby Gates: I think this is SUCH a case-by-case situation. For our house, we have dark wood floors and wrought iron spindles so I wanted a gate that was dark & would blend in. I suggest matching your spindles when selecting a baby gate for your stairs. Also, consider your stair opening. The top of our stairs is pretty standard, but the base of our steps is super wide. We actually found this gate: North States Super Gate that worked perfectly for the bottom of our steps. It comes in white as well. For the top we used a standard sized baby gate. Both are screw in…because you don’t want to mess around with stairs. Especially tall, hardwood stairs like ours! But if you’d rather not screw into your nice banisters, they sell these awesome ADAPTERS now! So cool!!

    Here’s another tip: on the top of your stairs avoid the gates that have the bar at the bottom. These are SO dangerous and are such tripping hazards- both for kiddos and for anyone who may be carrying babies down the stairs. Instead, get a SWING GATE like THIS ONE that bolts to your walls/beams and swings open…no bar at the base!

    Regular Baby Gates: For baby gates around the house (like to keep Max out of a certain hallway of our house) I go pressure mounted gate all the way! No need to put holes in the walls for something that isn’t going to be a permanent fixture! I love THIS ONE because the size is adjustable with extensions and I love the auto close feature!!

    Chokeable Items: Ok, this is a tricky one because it’s two-fold process for us: it’s about controlling new toys/items that come into the house and also trying to sort through old toys/items that you already have lying around! So, for ALL new toys that come into our house, I go through the packaging and remove any choking hazards before giving them to the girls. These tiny pieces get tossed or get put in special storage (more on that below). It’s easy(ish) to control new items that come into your house, but it’s hard to sort through the massive piles & bins of toys that you already have! So here’s what I did: I trained my girls to find “chokeables” and bring them to me. I’m not kidding! Ardyn was doing it the DAY we brought Max home from the hospital! I swear, train your older kiddos and they will be your biggest helpers in finding random chokables around the house. If need be, keep little smarties or m&m candies and tell the bigger kids they get one every time they bring you a chokable they find. You’ll be shocked at what they find, ahem…what you missed! 😉

    Of course, sweeping your house for choking hazard items doesn’t mean your big kids can’t play with their smaller pieced toys anymore- it just means (in our house, anyways) that these toys/games are stored up high and are items that the girls need to get permission before playing with…which isn’t a problem because they can’t reach them anyways! Ha! This applies to small legos, LOL dolls, Barbie shoes & accessories, games with small playing pieces, etc. When the girls come and ask to play one of those things, I take them down, set them up at a table where Max cannot reach and I supervise play. Here are some of our favorite storage bins for chokeable toys! ONE | TWO

     

     

    gifts

    Shop 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10

    Extras & Gift Ideas Details:

    KiwiCo Newborn Pack – Such a cute and easy gift idea! All these sweet newborn items delivered right to your (or your recipient’s) door! Stay tuned for an awesome giveaway on my IG coming soon!

    Paci Clips from Madelines’s Box are super cute for keeping those binkies clipped on to your baby! Use code JM25 for a discount, valid until 7/10/18

    Don’t underestimating buying clothes/pjs in a bigger size (for your baby or as a gift item) There’s nothing like getting to six months and realizing your baby no longer fits in any of the newborn stuff you hoarded like a pack rat!

    “First Bows” for baby girls – Zozu Baby and Ellia May Designs are two of my favs and they both have really cute “It’s a Girl” free bow gifting programs! ZoZu Baby even has little man bow ties for those baby boys! AND Discount codes for everyone!!! Use code JORDAN20 (at both ZoZu & Ellia May Designs) for 20%!!

    Miracle Milkookies deliver yummy lactation cookies to new mamas. Right now they are local to Dallas, TX but they have a nationwide launch happening this summer- YAY!     Use code JORDANANDCO for 25% off your first order!

    A beautiful baby book- I ADORE this Birthday Letters journal. I do birthday letters for my babes in generic journals I picked up but I would’ve loved to have had them collected in a beautiful book like this!

    Cute Organic Teethers are always a cute gift topper! Tip: When the sole purpose of an item is for a baby to put it in his/her mouth and chew on it…I always go organic/natural !

    Beautiful Personalized Stationary from Shop Joy Creative. It may seem funny to give a tiny baby stationary, but I promise it will come in handy- for those early thank you cards and as they grow throughout their first year! I LOVE my stationary for Max and use it often! Use code JORDAN20 for a discount!!

    Personalized Wooden Toy from Banner Toys are so beautiful AND last forever! Don’t forget about your discount code: JORDAN10 until 5/31 for 10% off! (excludes bannor boxes, limited toys, and furniture)

    I love gifting a pair of Kickee Pants pjs with a cute stuffed animal or book. Kickee Pants now has their own stuffed animals, books, AND wrapping supplies based on their fabric prints. How cool is that?!!? Use the exclusive code: YAY for 15% off all Kickee Pants Press products- expires 5/13 so hurry, hurry!

    If there are big siblings involved it’s always nice to get them a little something too. I’ll never forget how happy it made the girls when visitors brought even just a tiny something for them to say “congrats on becoming a big sister!” I love THIS Art Set for a gender neutral idea!

    For a few other fun baby gifting ideas see THIS post!

     

     

    no

    Things we didn’t use but others swear by:

    1| The Dock-aTot– As soon as Max could roll over he was a tummy sleeper, so that made the Dock unusable for us…even though we had one! I was SO sad!! Also, we travel a lot and didn’t want Max to develop a sleep dependency and then have to travel with it everywhere we went. That being said, so many of my friends SWEAR by theirs AND travel with them everywhere they go.

    2 |The Owlet– We bought one and tried using it but it set off so many false alarms, I found myself to be a nervous wreck all the time thinking something was terribly wrong. We stopped using it and had Max sleep in his bassinet (and then a pack & play as he grew) next to us, in our bedroom, for probably much longer than we should’ve. But again, I have friends and doctors who absolutely swear by these monitors! 😉

    3 |Baby Brezza- For those of you who don’t know, this thing is like a Keurig for Baby Formula. Ok, here’s the deal with this product: we had a friend sell us hers when Max started transitioning over to formula and it was GENIUS! I was hooked immediately. It mixes your formula one bottle at a time and serves it at room temp all at the touch of a button. Now, if you breastfeed you obviously don’t need this and I didn’t need it until recently. It really was a game changer & made the transition so much easier. BUT. It says to clean it regularly- which I did. However, one day I was trying to fix something that wasn’t working properly and when the insides opened up it was filled with mold. I threw up, I cried, I called the doctor immediately. I was thoroughly disgusted. SO. I’m not sure what went wrong here- because I’m a neat-freak/germaphobe and cleaned it regularly, per the instructions. It could’ve been a fluke, but I was completely turned off from this product so I won’t even link it here.

    4 |The Beebo – We bought one. Don’t ask me why. But never used it once. Maybe you can try it and let me know what I was missing?

    5 |Newborn Mittens and Pee TeePees (for little boys)- bought both, never used either! We opted for the Kickee Pants pjs with the fold over hand mitts instead.

    6| Amber Necklaces for teething. I just never really got into these little guys. I think maybe the potential choking hazard freaked me out? I don’t know. I know LOTS of people who use them and say they are amazing but I guess my kiddos were just never really bad enough teethers to warrant getting one.

  • Max’s First Birthday

    Max’s First Birthday

    “Wild ONE”

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    Some HOW, Some WAY this tiny newborn of mine turned a full year old. I’m just over here trying to wrap my head around the fact that I’ve known this sweet boy {on the outside} for 365 days. It’s pretty unbelievable- in the fact that I can’t believe how fast it went, but also in the fact that I can hardly remember life without him.

    Anyways, all sentimental mommy emotions aside…here is what we did to celebrate our little MAX!

    We went with the “Wild ONE” theme because, first of all his name is MAX and this  costume from last Halloween kind of set the whole thing in motion. And secondly- because this kid is pretty much the definition of WILD!image1(1).jpeg

    We decided against a big party this year and just celebrated low-key with family. Of course I went over-the-top with decorations, but that’s just to be expected… 😉

    Max’s birthday started the same way we start all the kids’ birthdays since Q was born: their “Annual Birthday Balloon Wake-up”! We all piled into the Birthday Boy’s room with a ton of balloons and sang him “Happy Birthday!”

    He hated it.

    No literally, he cried.

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    It’s always been a tradition to decorate the mantle for holidays & birthdays. So, of course, Max’s birthday was no exception! I’ll link that cute green “ride-on” bike below with everything else!

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    We had a normal day and then had all of our family members come over for a casual dinner that night. We ate, drank, open presents, and had cake– simple…like in the olden days. (But with a dining room decorated like the jungle, and goodie bags for the girls, and a million balloons. Ok.  So- NOT simple. But, simpler than a big old party!) 😉

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    2018-05-02_0011One fun idea I (and by “I”, I mean Pinterest) had was for everyone to write a little note to Max in a copy of “Where the Wild Things Are”. I’ll save it along with the birthday cards he received from anyone who couldn’t be here. 2018-05-02_0009

    I decided last minute to give the girls tiny goodie bags. I filled them with fun trinkets like stickers, slime bath bomb (to use in the OUTDOOR water table- NOT in our bathtub), some surprise packs, and a few treats.) I figured it would make the “boring grown up dinner” a little more festive for them….AND keep them occupied for a bit, so that us “boring grown ups” could talk!

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    Another great idea that just kind of fell into place was the idea of this mini “photo booth”. I still had the piano room set up from Max’s cake smash shoot, so I just took out the high chair, replaced it with a bench and had my family take turns taking pictures there with Max. Turned into a cute idea! I think I’ll print the pics and put them in his “Wild Things” memento book!2018-05-02_0005

    (Sidebar: For the animal party hats. I bought plain party hats and the animal ear headbands separately. I then just glued the animal ears to the party hats!! 🙂 )

    In lieu of a party, (and also because I like to celebrate my kids’ birthdays for more than one day) we spent the next day at the zoo together. We had so much fun!

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    And we can’t forget Max’s “cake smash”! I had this sweet little “Wild Thing” cake made by a local bakery called  Fancy Cakes by Lauren and it was perfect…and delicious! (See ya, later snobby old Society Bakery! See HERE for why!) 😉2018-05-02_00202018-05-02_00212018-05-02_00232018-05-02_00222018-05-02_00252018-05-02_00262018-05-02_00272018-05-02_00282018-05-02_00292018-05-02_0030

    Honestly, despite the smiles- Max HATED the cake smash. He was angry when his fingers got dirty and he didn’t get even a little bit happy until we gave him a spoon. He “tasted” the frosting once or twice but mostly just enjoyed hammering the cake with the spoon.2018-05-02_0031

    And just because before and afters are fun….

    Good work, Bud!

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    And then lastly, I took his final #ayeartotheMax picture. I delayed for a few days because I was NOT ready for these monthly pictures to be over. They were so fun to do and I KNEW how quickly it would all fly by. I may or may not have cried when I took this last one.

    Fastest year of my LIFE!!!

    But, also…the very BEST year with my little family of five!!!

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    Happy {WILD} O-N-E, sweet Max-a-roo!! We love you, Moose Man!

    Links

    “One Wild Year”, “Wild One” and Animal Print Pendant Banners are all from my favorite, FAVORITE go-to spot for all my party banner & felt ball garland needs –Pearl & Jane!!

    Max’s “Wild One” Tee | Max’s “Wild Thing” Tee | Max’s adorable “1” crown | Max’s adorable Monthly onesies  | Girls’ Zoo Dresses

    Animal Face Plates | Leaf Plates | Striped Plates  | Snake Cups| Party Hats | Animal Ear Headbands | Green Fringe Garland |Small Animal Balloons: Lion , Panda Bear, Monkey, Tiger , Crocodile , Hippo|Flamingo Balloon- Target Dollar spot, similar one HERE | Large Zebra Balloon | Large Crocodile Balloon | Wild One Balloons | Fake Palm & Banana Leaves- Target Dollar spot | Snake Party Blowers | Max’s green “bike” present

     

    LoveJordan

     

     

  • Royal Baby Collection

    Ok, friends- whether YOU are having a baby or you know someone who IS, I’ve got you covered! I’ve paired some items from Baby Boden’s brand new lines: A Very British Baby Collection and Baby Cashmere Collection (click those links to browse!) with a few of the sweetest baby trinkets I could find, to make sure you’ll win all the gift-giving prizes…and if it’s for your own baby- your future self will thank you, I promise! 😉

    These pieces were designed in London to celebrate a certain little high profile arrival…and let me tell you- they are SO CUTE!!!  When my babes outgrow their clothes, I always choose a select few of my absolutely favorites to save for them and these pieces would definitely be the ones that made it to the Memory Box!! (Especially that cashmere bonnet…OMG!)

    Anyways, these collections are LIMITED edition ….so shop now so that you don’t miss out! I mean, putting my kid in these outfits kiiiiiinda makes me feel like Kate Middleton & I are BFFS. And that’s never a bad thing, right?  😉

    Have fun shopping for all of your little Lords & Ladies!

    2018-03-06_0011Corgis Sleepsuit & Little Sapling Wooden Rattle

    2018-03-06_0006London Sleepsuit & London Opposites Board Book

    2018-03-06_0012London Printed Sleepsuit & Soldier Baby toy

    2018-03-06_0002Frilly Cashmere Jumper & Ballerina Doll

    2018-03-06_0007Cosy Cashmere Blanket & Jelly Cat Bunny

    2018-03-06_0005Cashmere Knitted Romper & Ten Little Fingers Book

    2018-03-06_0001Pointelle Cashmere Cardigan w/ Corgis Body Suit & LouLou Lollipop teether

    2018-03-06_0008Cashmere Bonnet & Birthday Letters Book

    2018-03-06_0009Pocket Cashmere Cardigan & Rabbit Doll

     

    2018-03-06_0010A few more sweet newborn items to add onto any gift set: Noodle & Boo Essential Care kit , Goumi mittens or booties, BlaBla Stuffed Doll, Hooded Towel

     

     

    Want More?

    View ALL The pieces from the Very British Baby Line HERE

    and

    ALL the pieces from the Cashmere Shop HERE

     

  • First Foods & A Giveaway

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    Disclaimer: I want to start by saying that I am fully aware that there are many people/organizations out there who believe breast milk is and should be the only source of nutrition a child needs/receives until 6-12 months of age.  I completely value and respect those opinions. What I’m going to talk about on my little blog here is what has worked best for me and my family, and may not be what works best for you.  Always be sure to check with your pediatrician before introducing any new foods and/or routines to your baby.

    It’s kinda of surreal to me that it’s time to give Max his first taste of real food. Mostly because I remember sitting both Quinlin and Cubby in the very same high chair, entire extended family gathered around to have their first spoonfuls.

    But Max is supposed to be my newborn…like, forever. How can he be eating solids already? I guess a tiny sliver of me is hoping that by introducing some foods, maybe he’ll be up less throughout the night to nurse. Here’s hoping…

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    When starting Q on baby foods I just did exactly what my pediatrician advised and introduced rice cereal. This immediately caused constipation issues. So with Cub, I did a bit of research and found this amazing site www.wholesomebabyfood.com. It has such great advice and ideas…and I particularly love the little charts you can print out. I printed them all and made a little binder. I’ve added tabs and notes for each kid, so it’s really nice to go back and see which foods I gave to the girls, what type of reaction they had, the dates I introduced new things, etc.

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    When to Start: My pediatrician told me to start introducing food between 4-6 months. I decided to split the difference and start right around five months. Everyone and every baby is different so, of course, do what works for you and what your doctor recommends!  Five months has worked for us in the past and Max seems ready (aka, he tried to swat the pizza slice out of my hand at dinner last night) so we’re going to give it a go!

    What to Start With: While pizza may not be the best first food (doctors, phssssh.) I decided for Max, to go the same route I did with Cubby: to skip the cereals and go straight to veggies. I’ve like starting with the veggies first to get my kiddos used to the taste before introducing the yummy sweet fruits. I mean, if someone fed you chocolate cake for a month and then decided to switch you over to strained string beans I think you’d be pretty pissed, too! 😉 Since they are easy, don’t require cooking, and are full of nutrients and fats, I decided to introduce avocados first.

    How Much: Again, every baby is going to be different. I think Q hated her first taste of food and hardly ate one spoonful. Cubby, obviously, gobbled hers right up. The very first time you feed, “they” suggest offering just 1/2-1 tablespoon. After they get the hang of the whole eating thing, I usually give the regular dose of breast milk/formula plus 1-3 tablespoons of food 1-2 times a day. Of course, I start slowly and then work up to that amount. I’ve always done breakfast and dinner to start and then added a “lunch” at a  later date! Gotta fill that belly before bedtime! 😉

    Feeding Tools: I’ve recently been trying to clear out the older, toxin-filled plastics in our house and replace them with wood, glass, and stainless steel for our dishes, cups, and utensils. I’ve partnered up with the fabulous brand Avanchy for Max’s first foray into foods. I love this brand SO much, not only because the materials are safe and non-toxic but because the bowls and plates come with removable plastic suction cups to keep the dishes in place as you feed. Hellooo, less messes! I love that I can suction the bowl onto Max’s highchair tray, but then remove the suction cup when I’m washing or when the girls are using them.

    avanchy

    *Don’t forget to enter the giveaway on my Instagram feed. They are giving away an essentials collection to TWO lucky winners!!

    “Made from organic bamboo and silicone, they are non-toxic, earth-friendly, BPA, BPS, PVC, Lead, and Phthalate free.”  – https://avanchy.com

    “Go Time!”: I usually give the first taste of a new food in the morning so that I can watch for any potential allergic reactions during the day (as opposed to at dinner time when they are about to go to bed for the night.) I make sure that I always give my kiddos their regular full milk feeding first (breast milk, or bottle); whatever they normally eat, whenever they normally eat it. I want them to get the full nutrients from the milk before potentially filling up on food. (For example, Max breastfeeds at 11:00 so I made sure to nurse him before we gave him a taste of food!) I chopped the avocado up super small and then mashed it with a fork. It still looked pretty thick so I mixed in some breast milk to make it a little more soupy. The next step is to get a teeny tiny bit on the spoon, introduce it slowly and make sure there is a giant plastic barrier between you and your baby…you never know what might happen!! kidding, kidding. And of course, don’t force it. If baby doesn’t seem interested he/she may not be ready. For us, I tried another small taste at dinner time with the same reaction. I’ll try giving him tiny tastes over the next 3-4 days while I wait to introduce the next food: sweet potatoes. It’s important not to force anything so that you don’t develop any sort of negative association with your baby and food/his highchair, etc.

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    Max’s First Taste: I’m pretty sure the pictures speak for themselves…

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    Safe to say, he’s not a fan…yet. 😉

     

    Me Being All PC & Stuff: In an effort to present all points of view, here are a few other websites I’ve perused in making my baby-feeding decisions. I don’t necessarily agree with everything on these pages, just thought I’d offer them for those like to read “all sides” before making a decision, like I do. And once more, for good measure: My #1 source of information and advice always comes from my pediatrician and my own mother’s intuition! 😉

    www.foodrenegade.com/why-ditch-infant-cereals

    www.breastfeedingmamatalk.com

    www.parenting.com/babys-first-foods

     

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    While The Wholesome Baby website has all kinds of great info regarding feeding schedules, foods to avoid, allergens, and my favorite: handy printable charts, I want to note- this post is in no way, shape, or form sponsored by The Wholesome Baby. It just happens to be my favorite source that I’ve used for all my children and I wanted to share it with you! While the Avanchy post is sponsored, they are products that I have been using for a while now & sincerely love! I am NOT receiving  commission off any purchases made to Avanchy and this blog post contains zero affiliate links. I just like to be honest with y’all! Happy Feeding. xo -J

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