Modern Parents Messy Kids

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Valentines for Her

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I wasn't quite sure what to title this post (What to Want for Valentine's Day?).  It seems a little odd to put up a collection of gift ideas for her... I'm well aware that the husband's reading this blog are few and far between.  But I know of several women who have the sweet tradition of either gifting their girlfriends or treating themselves for the holiday.  Just in case that's something you do (or would like to start doing), here are 9 items to brighten any woman's day. (There are a few … [Read more...]

Sweet V-Day Stuff to Make for (or with) the Kids

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If you're looking for a way to forgo the chocolate this Valentine's Day, consider gifting your kiddo one of these lovely DIYs instead.   You'll find goodies here appropriate for every age, and even one or two perfect for the little men in your life.  Some are super simple, a few take a little more effort, and many would make great projects for siblings to gift to one another.   top left: Pillow Talk Pillow top right: Hex Nut Pendant bottom: Painted Heart Bag Love Bugs - My … [Read more...]

Everything You Need to Know to Pick the Right Preschool

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I recently realized it's that time of year again... preschool picking season!  I can't believe it's already been thirteen months since we went through the frustrating/exciting/overwhelming process that is enrolling your child for their first school experience.    Just in case you're in that boat this year, I wanted to re-post all the good info. I gathered up back then and also to remind you that I've written about our experiences with an all outdoor preschool. Hope it … [Read more...]

Pinned: 5 DIY Activities to Stimulate the Kids

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image via Childhood 101   Did you know I've been on pinterest longer than I've had this blog?  It's true.  In fact, it was pinterest that finally made me believe I could actually offer up something interesting here on a daily basis (aside from Sundays that is).  As it stands right now, I have 20 boards, 1178 pins, and over 2000 followers on pinterest.  So maybe it's time I share some of that good stuff here on MPMK.  What do you think?   Today I'm drawing from my "playtime" board … [Read more...]

Giving your child P.R.I.D.E.

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Did you know it only takes 5 minutes of quality time a day with your child to give them a sense of emotional connection with you?  That's it!  Just 5 minutes of down-on-their-level, one-on-one time per day - you can do that right?  And to make that time even more valuable, mix in the 5 things mentioned above: praise, reflection, imitation, describing behavior, and enjoyment.   If you're wondering where all this is coming from, it's one of the simplest things I learned in that Love and … [Read more...]

Groundhog Day and Shadow Play

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Pre-kids, quirky little holidays like Groundhog Day didn't really do much for me.  Post-kids they provide the perfect opportunity to easily add a little magic to a typical day.  To see what I mean, check out my latest kid craft over at momtastic: groundhog shadow puppets.  It's a simple little project you can do next Thursday with the kiddos (there's a secret weapon that will help you impress them even if you couldn't draw a straight line to save your life.)   And to extend the fun, … [Read more...]

Elsewhere

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Isn't this Family Calendar cute?  It's one of my favorite products currently available from The Organized Parent.  Head over and check it out.  While you're there, you can also read all about my kids' rabbit diet.And here's another spot I'm popping up at this week.  The kind folks over at Mommy Page are featuring me as a "mommy of the moment".  See the full interview here for my tips on kid-friendly design and storage on a budget.See you back here tomorrow for something fresh.  Until then, don't … [Read more...]