Real. Simple. Parenting.

Tag: christmas

Christmas Carols for Parents

If you celebrate Christmas and you have kids, you probably know all the words to about a thousand Christmas carols. And, like visions of sugarplums dancing in your head, they probably start to drive you a little mad after a while. That’s why I came up with my own lyrics, fitting for moms and dads and caregivers alike. Read on for my Christmas carols for parents.

Continue reading

Our Favorite Christmas Books

We try to be a minimalistic family, but not when it comes to books! And Christmas books are no exception. Each year I gather a few more stories to add to our little box of holiday books, and it’s a wonderful feeling to see that box come down with the Christmas decorations every year. My oldest is reading now and my youngest isn’t far behind, so what a perfect time to tell you all about our favorite Christmas books! Read on for our recommendations and please add your own favorites in the comments. Merry Christmas and happy reading!

Continue reading

The Family Christmas Must-Do List

My children are old enough now that we can really start doing some fun stuff during the Christmas season. Whether it’s driving around armed with pajamas and cocoa to check out Christmas lights, having a specific “right” way to decorate the tree, or watching a certain movie on Christmas Eve, there are tons of traditions to do with your kids during the holiday season! We compiled a grand list: the family Christmas must-do list. Check out all of our ideas, and pick which ones would fit in to your home. And of course, add your own in the comments to share with other families! Continue reading

The Best STEM Toys for Kids

Do you have a blooming scientist in your home? My kids are naturalists, curious biologists, and tireless archaeologists. We love letting them experience all forms of science in their play, which is why we encourage them with the best STEM toys! Here’s an honest review of some great ideas for the little scientist in your life. Continue reading

Holiday Lesson: The Nutcracker Ballet

My toddler adores the Nutcracker Ballet, and who doesn’t? The music is memorable and beautiful, the story is enchanting, and it feels like Christmas can’t come until we’ve watched it at least once. Between my time teaching elementary music and my daughter’s obsession with the ballet, I’ve made a holiday lesson for the Nutcracker based on a professional kid-friendly performance, that you can find on YouTube! Read on for the link, my suggestions to make the ballet a lesson, and a free PDF! Continue reading

Merry Christmas from Real Simple Mama

Merry Christmas everyone! From me and mine here in South Texas, wherever you may be.

The shopping is done, the presents are opened, and the cooking is hopefully being done by someone else. I hope that you’re enjoying a beautiful day surrounded by the people you choose to love.

No funny stuff here, just well wishes to have a fantastic Christmas, full of love.

Merry Christmas from Real Simple Mama

The Best Christmas Music You Don’t Have

It’s the mooost wonderful time of the year! I absolutely adore the Christmas season. It’s like our world gets a bit more grace as it patiently waits for December 25. And of course, as soon as the Thanksgiving dishes are done, I bust out my trusty Christmas playlist and start blasting all of my holiday favorites! Since it is Christmas after all, I thought to tell you about my favorite – and most unusual – musical selections. Read on for the best Christmas music you don’t have. Continue reading

Family-Friendly Christmas Movie Favorites!

Ok guys, I need help. I admit it. I love Christmas! I’m probably a little addicted to finding the next great Christmas movie that I can watch with my kids. And I want to build my list.

Here I’ve created a varied list of Christmas movies which I love watching with my family. Some were favorites from my childhood, while some are newer to me, but all of them hold a special place in my heart for this special time of year.

With that, I’m asking for your suggestions. Comment and tell me your favorite family Christmas movie (sorry, Bad Santa) and why you love it. Let’s all expand our holiday movie-watching repertoire! Continue reading

Creative Gifts for Babies (and Their Parents!)

Babies are so fantastic: they’re adorable, resilient, and don’t require much. But that leaves loved ones in a bit of a predicament: what exactly do you get for someone who has a baby? You could always go the Target gift card route, but if you’re old-school like me you like for the parents to have something to really “open.” Plus it’s so much more fun to shop for a baby! Here are my suggestions for the best creative gifts for babies: they’re original, they’re useful, and I can promise you that they will be appreciated! Continue reading

© 2024 Real Simple Mama

Theme by Anders NorenUp ↑