Making Meaningful Memories Over the Holidays

One of the most important things during the holiday season is spending time with your loved ones. This can be a great way to create lasting memories and make the holiday season memorable for everyone. Here are some ideas to create fond memories this year. 

VOLUNTEER

Giving back to the community is a great way to make this season special for you and your loved ones. You can visit places you and your loved ones would like to help, such as a food bank or a hospital. 

The Mayo Clinic Health System has stated that volunteering can help an individual’s mental and physical health. It can also help with depression. Moreover, it can provide a great way to enjoy the holidays and give back to the community.

BUILD A FIRE

During the holiday season, have a fire and enjoy time with your loved one. While you snuggle by the fire, you can also play games. According to WebMD’s website, music therapy can help seniors feel less isolated and bright mood.

One of the most meaningful ways to pass the evening is to share happy stories. Your loved ones will likely have several interesting anecdotes they would like to tell you. Everyone can share their blessings for the year.

FAMILY PHOTO

It’s the best time to take family photos because you already know where everyone will be during the holidays. If you can’t hire a photographer, you can use timers that you can set on your devices to capture photos without leaving anyone out. Recreating poses from childhood photos can also be a great way to reflect on the holidays.

DECORATING PARTY

You and your loved one can spend some time decorating for the holiday season. You can start by making a dining table centerpiece or decorating the Christmas tree. You can then hang holiday ornaments or create a nativity set. Have a craft day when you make stocking for each other.

PREPARE THE MEAL TOGETHER

The kitchen is the heart of the holiday season, as food is crucial to our memories. With all the preparation that goes into preparing a meal, it can be an excellent opportunity for you and your loved one to get together and share the experience.

The aroma of the food and the activity can create a memory, and your loved one will be able to enjoy helping you. Another way to create a lasting memory is to have everyone at the table together. This will allow them to feel included and provide a memory that will last forever.

This blog was previously published on JenniferPowers.me on December 22, 2022

How to Handle Routine Changes During the Holidays

The following strategies will help you create a routine your entire family can stick to during the holidays.

Ironically, people think there is no place for routine during the holidays. When it’s so essential to maintain your family’s routine during the holidays. Doing so can help keep our minds focused on the positive and keep our bodies rested. Our habits can help us keep our homes and families running smoothly.

Schdule vs. Routine

A schedule is a list of various items that can change daily or weekly.

A routine is similar to a rhythm that you and your family follow. You can accommodate it for different events such as holidays and summer break.

Most household schedules change significantly during the school year as well as seasonally.

Some of the most common items in a routine include meal times, bedtimes, and regular family time activities.

Reduce Family Stress

Maintaining a routine throughout the school year and the holidays can be constructive. Doing so will lessen the stress on you and your family.

For instance, you might want to stay in bed a little longer and stop taking evening walks. But a consistent sleep/wake schedule reduces stress, as does exercise.

Make Adjustments Early

It’s important to consider the needs of each member family when it comes to creating a routine. Having a consistent set of rules can help keep your family running smoothly.

Bedtime

Getting enough sleep is crucial for your family’s physical and mental health. It can be challenging to get enough rest, especially during the holidays. Having consistent and good sleep can help keep our families healthy, happy, and running smoothly.

Morning Routine

An excellent habit for your routine and your family is gathering for breakfast. This can help keep everyone’s schedule organized and ensure that all essential items are taken care of by having a chat over breakfast.

Mealtime

Maintain a mealtime by planning for the entire month. A consistent, healthy, and delicious food plan can help keep your family on track and avoid going out all the time.

These tips will help you establish a routine you can stick to throughout the holiday season. We often need our habits the most during stressful times. Having a good family routine can help keep your family on track and stress-free during the holidays.

This blog was previously published on December 22, 2022 https://medium.com/@jenniferpowersnyc/how-to-handle-routine-changes-during-the-holidays-9d1a7acf2e54

How to Travel Safely With Kids This Holiday Season

Anxious about traveling during the holidays? You’re not alone. Here are some of the questions parents are asking. Should I buy a refundable ticket? Should we stay home? Is it worth it?

Let’s assume you’re not staying home. You have a family to visit. Maybe a child who’s never met his grandparent. It’s worth it to make that introduction. It might be worth it for the memories you’ll store up during the holidays. 

Should We Self Quarantine?

According to the CDC, Individuals should stay home for at least seven days after being declared sick. 

Take Covid 19 Tests?

Economist Emily Oster, who writes about parenting and pregnancy in her book, ParentData, said that rapid testing is an excellent idea for traveling. She added that even if everyone in the group is vaccinated, having the test before and after they get to the airport can help prevent the spread of the illness.

Getting the test can also be challenging, especially since it’s only sometimes available at pharmacies. 

Who Can Hold the Baby?

Pediatricians suggest that all relatives wear a mask while holding the baby to keep the child healthy. Everyone should wash their hands properly. Go ahead and blame your doctor for making relatives do these things; they won’t mind. 

Travel

It’s hard to avoid people while you’re at the airport, for instance, as you queue up to get in line or wrestle a car seat into an overhead bin. However, a blanket or a protective shield can help keep your child away from masses of people.

It’s always better to avoid public transportation when traveling with an infant. 

Was it the Right Choice?

Think about your risk tolerance. It’s also easier said than done depending on the person you’re trying to protect. For instance, you may have a different risk tolerance for an older relative who is not vaccinated than for a young child who is healthy and has immunity from their mother.

Make sure you and your partner are on the same page when setting boundaries. Wherever your stance is, you should be able to stand up for yourself. It’s your right to keep your child safe.

Gifts Ideas for New Parents

During the holiday season, new parents can experience both the best and worst times. Whether they’re celebrating the birth of their child or preparing for the arrival of their new bundle of joy, this time of year can feel very different for them.

It’s natural to want to spoil the new baby in your family. However, it’s important to remember that this doesn’t mean you’re only shopping for the baby. Plenty of gifts will help new parents feel supported as they navigate their new life. Here are some suggestions.

Automatic Baby Rocker

New parents often spend a lot of time holding their newborn in their arms. However, after a while, it’s tiring. A baby rocker will help new parents get some rest. It can provide them with a break and allow them to get back to tasks.

A Meditation App Subscription 

It can be very challenging to become a new parent. However, with the help of a guided meditation app like Headspace, you can help new parents relieve their stress and get back to their regular routines. The practice will allow them to feel more grounded and relaxed.

A Couples Parenting Journal

When couples become parents, their relationship often takes a backseat. It’s a great idea to keep their romance alive. A couple’s parenting journal is filled with questions that couples can answer together.

A Meal Delivery Gift Card

It can be very challenging for new parents to prepare food for the family. A meal delivery gift card from a company such as Grubhub or Seamless can help new parents get food delivered to their homes. A local restaurant gift card is also a good alternative.

European Cheese Board

After nine months of abstaining, it’s time to give the mom what she really wants; a bottle of wine, cheese, or cold cuts. These items are usually off-limits during pregnancy, so a party featuring these foods can be a great way to celebrate the new arrival.

A Comfy Robe

A soft robe is an excellent choice for busy parents who want to keep themselves warm and comfortable after a quick shower. Go for midweight Turkish cotton, which is fast drying and comfortable.

A Stylish Nursing Cover

New moms may feel a bit uncomfortable breastfeeding in public. A good nursing cover can help ease the transition, allowing both the mother and baby to breastfeed peacefully.

A Manly Fanny Pack

Fanny packs are often criticized, but they can be a lifesaver for parents needing additional hands. A masculine belt bag can hold all the items they need while they keep the baby safe. 

Happy shopping!

Tips for Taking Your First Trip Without Your Child

Getting away, just the two of you, from time to time, is healthy for your marriage. It’s a good idea for parents to take vacations without their kids for a couple of days.

Some fears come with leaving your kids behind for any period of time.

You might even feel guilty about leaving them at home while you’re on holiday, but getting away is essential so you can recharge.

Although it’s normal to feel anxious about leaving your kids behind, it’s also important to remember that they’re at home and safe. 

Having a positive attitude about traveling can help ease anxiety.

During a trip, you can spend time doing things that we would never be able to accomplish with kids in tow. Some of these include walking through museums in foreign cities and leisurely dinners.

One of the essential factors to consider when it comes to adult-only travel is ensuring that your kids are with responsible adults whom you trust. 

Before you go

It’s important to talk to your kids about the plans for the trip. If they’re likely to be excited about staying with their grandparents or caregiver, tell them a few days in advance. But, if you suspect it will upset them or make them anxious, you can wait until the day of the trip to tell them. According to a psychologist, there’s no point in telling them too early as they might spend more time worrying or upset.

Even if your kids are a little upset, it’s great for them to see that their parents want to spend time together. 

A fun thing to try is asking your child to lend you one of their favorite toys. While you’re away, take photos with the toy in different cities and during fun adventures. This will make your child feel a part of the vacation. It’s a great way to include them while still getting your adult time together. Plus it will be fun for you too. 

Ultimately, it’s healthy for you to get away, and the kids need to know you can’t be with them every single day. It’s good for everyone in the house to learn and grow. 

Involving Your Children in Cooking for Thanksgiving

It can be easier to shoo kids away from the kitchen during the hectic Thanksgiving cooking process. However, besides being fun, getting young chefs involved in the cooking and baking of Thanksgiving meals can also take some of the work off of your plate.

Why Do It!

Participating in a special family meal can build their confidence and inspire them to be more self-sufficient. There are a variety of Thanksgiving recipes that kids can make.

Understanding that things can get a bit hectic during prep on Thanksgiving, make sure to set some time aside to prepare something together a day before the big day. They can learn a lot by getting involved in the cooking process.

One of the most bonding moments of the year is when the kids participate in the Thanksgiving feast. It’s a great way to spend time with their parents and share a special meal. The kitchen is a great place to grow and learn as a family.

Find some recipes to make a day or two ahead of time so that you can enjoy the Thanksgiving feast with your family. Here are some easy things little ones can help with before Thanksgiving. 

Kid Friendly Tasks

  • Washing vegetables like potatoes and carrots
  • Making a dip with sour cream and a soup packet. Use a big bowl to keep the dip inside, not on the floor, then let them stir to their hearts’ content. 
  • Rolling out dough for pies and cookies.
  • Baking cookies and being the official taster. 

On the Big day, let your child fill all the water glasses and place them on the table. Then they can fill the pitcher, so it’s ready to go with dinner. 

Mixing the ingredients for the stuffing is another excellent way they can help while you get the bird ready. 

Even the next day, children can help. All those leftovers need a lunch plan. Invite your child to help prepare a simple lunch, such as a grilled turkey sandwich with leftover cranberry sauce. 

What’s most important is the memories you’ll make in the kitchen on the holidays. Those will last a lifetime. 

Tips for Raising Your Family in a Big City

While cities can be expensive, growing up in a modest suburb can still provide some advantages. According to conventional wisdom, raising happy children requires a big house, a quiet neighborhood, and a safe car.

Have you noticed that many families raise their kids in cities instead of the suburbs? According to Leigh Gallagher, author of the 2013 book The End of the Suburbs, the growth of the urban population outpaced that of the suburban sector for the first time in over a hundred years in 2011.

Vishaan Chakrabarti, the author of A Country of Cities, believes that many people who moved to cities when they were young moved back to the suburbs in their 30s due to the quality of education and low crime. However, these factors are also changing in cities, and parks and schools have improved in many areas.

Here’s what you get in the City

Culture

People who live in large urban areas are more likely to have easy access to cultural attractions, such as ballet, opera, and symphony, as well as movie houses, historical landmarks, and museums. Take advantage of these wonderful learning centers. 

Less Carpooling

Most suburban parents don’t like the hours spent driving their kids to school, camp, or classes. In cities, parents allow their kids to ride public transportation starting at 11 or 12. This eliminates the need for them to rely on their parents as much and will enable them to develop a sense of independence. 

More Diverse

Cities allow children to meet people from different backgrounds and experiences, which increases tolerance and compassion. They’ll try new foods from their friends’ lunchboxes and gain new perspectives on the world.

Important Lessons

Explaining to a child why a homeless person is sleeping on the street is very distressing, but there are also many opportunities for growth and learning in these situations. 

No Commute

Cities allow families to spend more time with their kids, as they don’t have to commute as much. City dwellers often only commute a couple of miles. Doctors and other necessities are often within walking distance, and a car might be unnecessary. It’s great to get out and spend time talking or just walking with your family.

Amenities

You can find artisanal ice cream or coffee at your local strip mall if you’re in the market. Although not every city center has the same food and drink options, the diversity of the offerings in any area is usually better than what you’ll find in the suburbs. Urban locations also have easy access to various stores and restaurants.

Managing Food Allergies Around Halloween

Many people dress up as their favorite characters from movies and costumes during the holiday season and head to the stores for candy and treats. However, for those with food allergies, the season can be frightening. Six of the most common food allergens are in high circulation on Halloween. These include wheat, milk, egg, and soy. Even small amounts of these can trigger an allergic reaction in kids.

Parents need to talk to their kids about food allergies to certain foods, such as candies and treats. They should also discuss strategies to prevent their kids from experiencing an allergic reaction while they’re at parties or trick-or-treating.

Check Labels

Avoiding eating sweets made in different facilities is also essential for kids with food allergies. This can be especially true for snack sizes and miniatures.

The FDA requires all food labels to list the sources of major allergens, such as milk, wheat, eggs, and soy. These labels should also include the common names of these allergens in bold. In April 2021, a law was passed that added sesame to the list of major food allergens in the US. This new law will require all food labels to include this ingredient starting in January 2023.

Some packaging also has a note that says “May contain,” followed by the name of the allergen. This is a better way to ensure that the products are labeled with the correct information. Although this method is voluntary, checking the ingredients list every time a product is purchased is essential. Since many bite-sized candies don’t have an ingredient list, it’s important to check other products’ ingredients online to ensure they’re safe for kids.

Connect with Neighbors

Some people may want to buy candies without worrying about harming kids having food allergies. However, they may not know what to look for when it comes to purchasing them. You can help by providing them with safe treats or telling them what to look for when it comes to buying sweets.

Learn About Teal Pumpkins

The Food Allergy Research & Education organization created the teal pumpkin campaign in 2014 to raise awareness about food allergies. It encourages people to place a teal pumpkin outside their homes to indicate that they have non-food treats that are safe for kids with food allergies.

Teach Kids to Ask First

For young kids with food allergies, it’s crucial to carry candy for them to avoid accidental contact. They should also learn to read the label before eating sweets or food. If unsure, teach them to throw or give the product away. A list of safe treats can help ease kids’ fears of food allergies. Educating your child on safety around their allergy is crucial.

Talk to Teachers

If your child’s class has a Halloween party, you can also play a vital role in preventing a dangerous allergic reaction. Before the event, talk to the teachers and ask them to help organize the party. You can also volunteer to bring a non-food treat.

Make a Plan for Unsafe Treats

Before the event, plan with your child about what to do after trick-or-treating if they get unsafe treats. For instance, instead of just taking away your child’s dangerous sweets, ask them to exchange them for toys or books.

Make Your Traditions

You can also host a costume party at your home instead of giving sweets. For instance, instead of sharing sweets, you can provide trick-or-treating kids with non-food treats such as glow sticks and fake mustaches.

Originally published at JenniferPowersNYC.Medium.com

Setting a Consistent Bedtime Routine for Kids

Getting enough sleep is very important for a healthy and balanced life. It can help children develop their physical, emotional, and mental health. However, setting a consistent bedtime routine for children can also be very challenging. This is why it’s essential to establish a strategy to help your child get enough sleep.

RESTRICT ACCESS TO ELECTRONICS

One of the first steps to establishing a consistent bedtime routine is to remove electronic devices from your child’s bedroom. This will help prevent screen time and improve their sleep quality.

This strategy aims to establish a quiet and consistent bedtime routine for your child. This will allow them to develop good sleep quality and avoid screen time.

HAVE A CLEAR SCHEDULE

One of the most critical steps to establishing a consistent bedtime routine is to create a schedule that includes all the necessary steps. This can be done by having a visual plan that shows each step.

One of the most important factors to remember is that each child has a unique bedtime routine. Bathtime can be a relaxing experience for some, while others are more excited about it. You can also change it up later in the evening if it helps keep the child’s energy levels up.

PREPARE A RELAXING ENVIRONMENT WITH MINIMAL DISTRACTIONS

Before setting a consistent bedtime routine, you must identify the areas where your child will be sleeping. If there are many toys and stuffed animals in the bedroom, it might be a problem. Limiting the number of these items can help prevent the child from playing when they should be sleeping.

If your child is afraid to go to sleep alone or doesn’t like the dark, you can use a spray bottle filled with water and a drop or two of calming lavender to help ease their anxiety. This will be part of their bedtime routine.

DON’T RUSH TO ANSWER EVERY CALL

You should wait a few seconds before answering your child’s call. Give them a chance to fall asleep independently, and make the wait longer each time.

Before setting a consistent bedtime routine, you must establish a relaxed and comfortable environment for your child’s bedroom. A good, personalized bedtime routine can help children develop good sleep quality and avoid screen time. One of the most important factors to keep in mind is to stick to it as much as possible. This will allow you to see the results of your efforts in the long run.

Originally published at JenniferPowers.me

Best Podcasts for New Parents

When you’re about to become a new parent, whether you were planning on having a child naturally or waited a long time to get pregnant, it can be stressful. In reality, parenting and pregnancy can be very challenging, but it’s also full of blessings and joy. Having the correct information can help you prepare for the challenges ahead. One of the best ways to prepare for parenthood is by learning from experts such as medical professionals and experienced parents. This can help you navigate the various challenges parenthood can throw you. We searched the internet for the best podcasts to help you understand and navigate the various challenges parenthood can throw at you.

PREGNANCY PODCAST

For years, the Pregnancy Podcast has been providing new and expecting parents with the latest information on pregnancy-related topics. In addition to being a great source of information, this show tackles some of the biggest questions new parents have about childbirth and prenatal care. The show hosts, Vanessa and her guests, walk you through the various steps involved in becoming a new parent. They also cover particular topics, which makes them an ideal source for new parents. The show hosts are very knowledgeable about all the subjects they cover, making them an ideal source for new parents. The library of the show is also full of helpful articles. Since the episodes are usually only 20 minutes long, starting and finishing them while cooking dinner is easy.

RESPECTFUL PARENTING: JANET LANSBURY UNRUFFLED

Janet is an expert in the parenting space, having published two books on childcare and parenting and being a parenting consultant and website builder. She has also dedicated over 200 episodes to helping other parents navigate through the various challenges of parenthood. In her show, Janet breaks down complicated concepts in a conversational style. The way she talks about topics makes it feel like she’s sitting next to you. The program’s library features several short talks on parenting topics. Over the years, Janet has helped many parents improve their interactions with their kids. She has also helped them deal with the tension in their marriage caused by their kids. Janet’s advice and information benefit new mothers with difficult kids prone to lying and stealing. After listening to Janet for a couple of years, you’ll better understand the dynamics of family life and child development.

SOLO PARENT SOCIETY

This is also a great place for single parents. In addition to receiving practical advice, this podcast features deep discussions about the various feelings that new parents are going through. The Solo Parent Society aims to help single parents raise healthy kids and grow their self-esteem through conversations with other parents. Many of the show’s examples are of parents who have already walked away from their marriage. The content is also relevant to other parents.

Originally published at JenniferPowers.me