Every kid goes through some sort of crazy developmental phase around two to three years old. It’s hellish for everyone involved: parents, caregivers, siblings, and the toddler themselves. We’ve all heard of it and we all dread it, the terrible twos. I’m going through this now with my second child and I have lots of suggestions for you. So buckle up (and maybe pour yourself a strong drink), and let’s talk. Continue reading
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Our oldest will be going to kindergarten this fall in a public school! My husband and I are teachers by profession, but this is our first time going through the “school readiness” process as parents. After speaking with teachers, parents, and online sources, we’ve compiled a list of things to do to prepare your child for kindergarten. We’re publishing this information in hopes that we can help other parents, especially if this is your first rodeo with a child going to school! Continue reading
Who really rules the roost at your place? We’ve had backyard chickens for about a year and decided we needed to build them their own chicken run instead of letting them free range in our entire yard. Our build is working beautifully and so I’m passing on the information to you! Read on for how to build a chicken run which is functional, affordable, and versatile! Bonus YouTube videos and photos throughout, of course! Continue reading
Chickens are such uniquely wonderful pets. They’re quirky, full of personality, and really easy to care for. But after having backyard chickens for a year, I’ve made a list of some of their weird mannerisms and behaviors. I call these habits “chicken-isms” and they’re worth reading about! Here’s my ultimate list of weird and hilarious chicken behavior! Continue reading
Shopping with your kids can be fun! No, I’m serious! I actually love taking my kids to the grocery store: they’re generally calm, cooperative, and eager to learn all about healthy choices. I’ve lined up all of my best hacks and strategies to help you have fun when you take your kids to the store, too! Continue reading
No one likes to have a sick kid. There’s of course the fact that your child doesn’t feel well, but then there’s also the stress of what to do: do you go to the doctor straightaway, call and see what Doc suggests, or try to wait it out at home? One of the main variables that parents use to make this decision is to get their child’s temperature. And an accurate reading is absolutely essential when speaking to your medical professional; that’s the first thing that our pediatrician wants to know! We have had such bad luck with thermometer after thermometer – and we’ve accumulated quite a few over the years! – that it only made sense to do a comparison of all our thermometers. Look for photos, manufacturer information, and a demonstration video at the end of the article which goes through all of them and how they’re used! This is the official Real Simple Mama Ultimate Thermometer Comparison Review. Continue reading
Tattoos are fantastic. They’re a beautiful and unique way to express yourself or commemorate a special person or event. Loved ones use ink as artistic therapy, as a timeless reward, and as a way to stand out from the crowd. I got a tattoo when I turned 18 but now I’m a mom, and I’m ready to get some skin art to honor my son. But wait a minute: how do you go about that?! Here’s a real simple guide to getting tattoos… when you have kids. Continue reading
More and more families are jumping onto the bandwagon of having backyard chickens. And it makes perfect sense: chickens are affordable, enjoyable, and productive little pets! But the biggest question I get asked about my feathered girls is “How much work are they to take care of?” So in real simple fashion, here is a breakdown of our usual chicken chores. Look for the video at the end of the article! Continue reading
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! My children and I are excited about cooler weather, comfy sweaters, cocoa and crackling fires and cookie decorating. This holiday season is made more special by the fact that it will be my son’s first year to really write to Santa. But, like lots of things on the road of parenting, this is a first for both my kid and I. So I’ve put together this post to help parents write a letter to Santa with their child! Enjoy the free PDF download and Merry Christmas! Continue reading
As a new dad, I love spending time with my son whenever I can, but I also have so many things to take care of around the house. We have a swing and a bouncer that I could place him in when I’m doing chores or trying to sneak in a meal for myself, but I hate just leaving him in the corner of the room while I do my things. I thought maybe I could try one of those baby carriers so I could have him close to me as I did my work. Luckily, I found the Infantino Mei Tai baby carrier. And I haven’t looked back.