Thoughtful Gift Ideas for Those Spending More Time at Home
This year we have been forced to slow and spend more time at home. It seems only fitting that you may want to add a few items to your holiday wish list that focus on making that time at home even better. Or maybe you’re shopping for someone who is now working from home or spending more time at home than ever before - this list is for you! I’ve got ideas that any homebody will LOVE!
I’ve been living the work from home mom life for years. This photo is from 2017 and gosh, I just love that little boy.
Comfy Blanket - Can you ever have too many blankets? The perfect gift for anyone but especially important for those who spend a lot of time at home. While comfy blankets are amazing, Gravity Blankets and Heated Blankets are other great gift options.
Wireless charger - Last year at Christmas I bought my husband this stand and it’s by far one of his most used gifts. He set it up next to his computer and his phone is almost always fully charged for those conference calls or games of Golf Battle.
Massager - When our offices were closed earlier this year we both started working from home and our necks and backs could feel it. So much time spent at a computer, working from the couch, and just normal stress of 2020. I bought this neck massager randomly one day and we love it so much. It’s used pretty frequently.
Slippers - Cozy slippers are essential during Ohio winters. My husband loves these ones that our son bought him last year and I really enjoy my UGG slippers.
Essential Oil Diffuser - An essential oil diffuser is great for every room in your home, I turn them on as part of my morning routine and the home smells great and feels so peaceful all day long. I love this stone diffuser, as well as this smaller one.
Candles - I’m obsessed with candles. Give me all the things that smell delicious and they make a great gift for everyone.
Fun Door Mat - Fun door mats add a fun pop of personality to your front door and I’m a fan!! These are a few of my absolute favorites...
Tea Pot/Coffee Maker/Mugs - Everything they need for a perfect drink at any time of the day. I personally love this teapot and coffee maker. For mugs, I think it’s important to have fun and bring in some personality. I personally love this one and of course, this one too.
Manicure/Pedicure Kit from Olive and June - This has been a new favorite of mine because they provide you everything you need for a perfect mani/pedi from home. They use quality ingredients and it shows as you end up with the perfect mani.
A Good Book - You can find all of my book recommendations here.
Noise Canceling Headphones - This was a game-changer for me this year. They are so helpful in keeping me focused while working.
Space Heater - For the one who has everything a great space heater or air purifier is the gift they’d never think to ask for but love to have.
Happy Shopping!
7+ Local Kid Stores to Shop Year-Round
I have found some of the best gifts by shopping for my kids at local Columbus shops. Unique finds that I would never find in a big box store and my kids LOVE them. I’m sharing some of my favorite Columbus Kid Stores today on the blog. Shopping small is more important than ever! Make that shopping list and then visit these stores to get something great for everyone!
Shopping small has always been very important to me. Every single purchase with a small business makes such a difference in the lives of countless people including the business owner, their staff, families, other local businesses they do business with, and so much more. It’s no surprise that 2020 has been hard on small businesses everywhere and now as the holiday season approaches it’s even more important than ever that we support our local business community.
I have found some of the best gifts by shopping for my kids at local Columbus shops. Unique finds that I would never find in a big box store and my kids LOVE them. I’m sharing some of my favorite Columbus Kid Stores today on the blog - but please comment and tell me if there is one I missed that you think I should explore. :-)
Cub Shrub
Cub Shrub is full of fun modern items that spark inspiration and imagination. It’s always the first place for gifts and adorable clothing. This year I bought the holiday tattoos, a handful of books, and this Dr. Fauci ornament. As time gets a little closer I’m sure I’ll be adding some other fun goodies from Cub Shrub under my tree.
The Mini Label
Created by a fellow 614 Mom, The Mini Label has the most adorable baby clothes. They are super soft and the colors are perfection. My youngest will have a few sets under the tree this year.
Coco Beans
Is someone in your life expecting or do you have a sweet little babe yourself? Coco Beans provides better sleep for little ones using the natural magic of silk. They are currently running a campaign to help get their business started. Share the holiday magic by helping a small business thrive while getting your little one a 100% silk crib sheet (estimated ship date Feb 2021)
Learning Express
We love exploring Learning Express. They have all of the super fun toys my kids love so much and a few that we’ve never seen before. It’s a perfect mix of educational toys and those super popular must-have gifts.
Naturally Curious Kids
Kids learn so much through play and Naturally Curious Kids has some of the best toys that help encourage learning through play and I’m a big fan. Some of the items we’ll have under our tree this year include so many of the art supplies, this mix & bake mixer, and dimpl toys for the youngest member of our family.
Wonderville Studios
Local author Jason Tharp has amazing books, T-shirts, and other cool things to help inspire kindness and positivity for your young readers. Shirts that say Kind is Cool and even some fun mugs for that coworker you got in the holiday gift exchange.
Packrat Comics
Packrat Comics in Hilliard is one of a kind. I’m talking truly special. They have comic books, toys, and graphic novels plus so much more. If you have a superhero fan on your list this is a must.
Shopping small is more important than ever! Make that shopping list and then visit these stores to get something great for everyone!
Gifts That Give Back | Holiday Gift Guide | 614 Mom
Buying gifts for the ones you love is always a special time. I’m always looking for gifts that bring happiness to the ones I love. Sometimes that’s an experience, sometimes that includes a really messy slime kit ;-) and sometimes it’s as simple as purchasing an item that gives back to others. I’ve put together a list of items that give back to some really cool and unique causes. From toilet paper to dolls - the list below has something for everyone on your list. I know my VSCO girl is going to love the bracelet below that supports The Sea Turtle Conservatory.
Buying gifts for the ones you love is always a special time. I’m always looking for gifts that bring happiness to the ones I love. Sometimes that’s an experience, sometimes that includes a really messy slime kit ;-) and sometimes it’s as simple as purchasing an item that gives back to others. I’ve put together a list of items that give back to some really cool and unique causes. From toilet paper to dolls - the list below has something for everyone on your list. I know my VSCO girl is going to love the bracelet below that supports The Sea Turtle Conservatory.
Gifts That Give Back!
Wonder Tote Bag
"When given the choice between being right or being kind, choose kind." I love teaching our kids that no matter what, choosing kindness is most important. With the purchase of this Wonder tote bag, you help fund literacy programs and book donations to communities in need.
Happy Givers
Yes, 100% of the profits support the work of our non-profit in Puerto Rico, Peru, and Ethiopia. All of their profits help feed, educate, and transform these communities.
Kind Culture Co.
This doll is so cute AND comes with so much! The Joy Doll comes with a kindness kit which has tokens and a list of acts of kindness that will inspire your children to share and give. Not only does it help your kids to be kind, but with every purchase, the company also donates a doll to a child less fortunate.
Who Gives A Crap
Everyone uses it, so why not save some trees and help those in need at the same time? This company creates toilet paper that is environmentally friendly and donates 50% of profits to help build toilets for those who don’t have access to one.
Eleventh Candle Co.
When I think of a cozy family night I think of blankets, popcorn, a movie, and some seasonal scented candles. My all-time favorite is the Spiced Chai. When you purchase a candle, you are helping employ once trafficked women in Ohio, and it also helps a village in Ethiopia support orphaned children.
PURA VIDA
Do you love Marine life AND jewelry? The purchase of this Pura Vida bracelet donates a percentage of net sales to The Sea Turtle Conservancy which help conserve and recover sea turtle populations through research, education, advocacy and protection of the natural habitat
Feed Project
Does anyone else feel like they have to pack up the whole house when they do anything with their kids? I sure do. Feed has bags that are big enough to throw some sippy cups, toys and your wallet in all while being super cute. Oh, AND when you buy one they provide school meals to the most vulnerable communities across the globe.
Ivory Ella
There’s nothing like a comfy tee. Ivory Ella is a mission-driven apparel and lifestyle brand that supports elephant conservation. Good clothes for a good cause!
Love Your Melon
This one pulls on my heartstrings. These beanies are so cute and 50% is given to the Love Your Melon Fund to support our nonprofit partners in the fight against pediatric cancer. They are dedicated to give a hat to every child battling cancer. How awesome is that?
Roma Boots
Here is a good reason to love rain. For every pair of boots sold, a new pair is donated to a child in need. They have donated boots in 26 countries across 6 continents. Our goal is to serve those living in poverty and to create a culture of empowerment.
Bombas
And since we've no place to go. Let it soft. Let it soft. Let it soft. When you make one purchased they donate one to the homeless.
Ciela Handmade
Fashion with Compassion. Every purchase you make with us supports a living wage for an artisan living in a vulnerable community in Latin America. I love a statement piece and these bags and necklaces are just that.
Pelotonia
There is something for your mom, dad, son, daughter and husband. Pelotonia has a little bit of everything and it all goes directly to fund cancer research at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center–Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute.
10 Gift Ideas For Your Favorite Couple
My husband and I often get joint gifts from our loved ones around the holidays. They are always very thoughtful and the gifts we treasure for years. I’ve put together some of my favorite gifts for your favorite couple. These gifts are great for holidays, weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, and everyday occasions.
My husband and I often get joint gifts from our loved ones around the holidays. They are always very thoughtful and the gifts we treasure for years. I’ve put together some of my favorite gifts for your favorite couple. These gifts are great for holidays, weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, and everyday occasions.
This post contains affiliate links - I may earn a small commission from qualifying sales.
Cultivate What Matters For Couples
Around this time last year, I purchased a Cultivate What Matters Goal Planner for myself and when it arrived it came with a free couples mini version. My husband and I spent New Year’s Eve writing our 2019 goals together as a couple and we had so much fun. I would buy this for my marriage again this year or for any friends who also love goal planning as much as we do. It’s a fun gift and the digital download options gives you the opportunity to customize your gift with some fun photos or a fun book.
Custom Socks
For the couple with a fun sense of humor these are a great option. I’m sure my husband would love to walk around with my face on his socks hahahaha! My best friend and I actually bought these for our husbands last year but we put their faces on it. So my husband got socks with her husband’s face on them and vice versa. It was truly a gift that kept on giving when they started wearing them to game night. The quality is honestly great and I would buy them again.
Love & Kindness Cards
This one is extra special as it’s designed by a local business owner and you know we love all things local here on 614 Mom. :) This deck of cards is a perfect stocking stuffer for the couple in your life or to have on hand for you and your partner. The front of the card offers a concept or a challenge. The back of the card explains the concept in easily understood terms. In today’s world where people have so little time, this is a fun and easy way to connect every day. Create the connection you have always wanted by spending just a few minutes a day. These cards are great for relationships in good shape or for relationships that need some fine-tuning.
Date Night In a Box
One year I pre purchased 12 months of date for my husband. I made it very easy for us to spend that time together every single month by planning and paying for them the year before. While that would be fun to do again, it was A LOT of work. To make things a little easier but still as thoughtful I think putting together a date night in a box would be a great gift. You can use it right away or put it in the closet to use when you need a date night but the kids are sick, your babysitter canceled, or just because. I’ve put together a full list of fun ideas on my Amazon page that you can check out.
Cozy Blanket
I found this is searching for items for the date night in a box but I think this blanket is a perfect gift on its own. Who doesn’t love to curl up under a blanket at any point in the day? My husband’s grandma gifts us blankets every year for Christmas and honestly, I look forward to it every year! :-)
Beautiful Decor
Listen - I don’t think you should go around buying home decor for people you don’t know very well but Lovely Grain Studio offers beautiful timeless pieces. Brooke can create a custom piece with a quote you know means a lot to the couple or even a precious handwritten sign in the handwriting of a loved one. Personally, I am trying to locate a written version of my grandma’s amazing homemade noodles to get printed for my kitchen. I don’t know that she ever wrote it down though - if I find it I’m calling Lovely Grain immediately.
Winc Subscription
4 Bottles for $39 + FREE shipping
We recently gave Winc a try and we’re fans. We are not heavy drinkers but we do like to try new wines - mainly white wine. This is such a fun way to try new wine without breaking the bank and it gives us an at-home date night. That’s a win-win in my book.
Family Portrait
I recently accepted a position to be a Huntington Bank ambassador - and on the very first day they gifted us a hand-drawn family portrait in a beautiful frame and I just love it! We had no idea it was going to be sitting on the table when we arrived and I wish I could show you a video of everyone arriving and seeing their portrait for the first time. The local to Columbus artist is so talented and I have ours on my nightstand. You can’t go wrong with something like this.
Couple Photo Session
Engagement sessions are very popular but very few couples have photos of just the two of them 5, 10, 15+ years in. Why not? They are the reason the beautiful family even exists and I think it is so important for couples to have photos of their love. Imagine how fun it would be to do your engagement session again after 15 years of marriage. That’s special. Ashley D Photos is amazing and I would happily hire her for something like this. Tell her 614 Mom sent ya ;)
What I Love About Us Book
My husband purchased this for me a few years ago and it’s truly a gem. He answered it in such fun ways and added it to my stocking as a gift. I still read it and love it. He made sure to add some humor to it and it brings a smile to my face. This is great for your spouse or to gift your favorite a blank copy so they can fill it out for each other.
I hope this list was helpful to you. Make sure you follow 614 Mom on Facebook and Instagram and save this blog post on Pinterest so you can look at it next time you’re shopping for your favorite couple.
Gift Guide For The Kid Who Has Everything
I often get asked about gift ideas for kids and I’m happy to put together this list full of fun ideas. While I love to get things specifically off their list these are great, go-to gifts, for stocking stuffers, birthday parties, kids you don’t know all that well, and even for your own kids when you just aren’t sure what to get. I hope you enjoy reading through - and of course please comment below with anything you’d add to the list.
I often get asked about gift ideas for kids and I’m happy to put together this list full of fun ideas. While I love to get things specifically off their list these are great, go-to gifts, for stocking stuffers, birthday parties, kids you don’t know all that well, and even for your own kids when you just aren’t sure what to get. I hope you enjoy reading through - and of course please comment below with anything you’d add to the list.
Mindful Books
We’re big fans of fun books that have a powerful message. I often share these books here because I just love them so much. You can find books on Kindness, Self Love, Bravery, and Confidence right now as well as extra fun books here.
Slime
Slime for the kids and some cleaning supplies for the parents. I have found a few brands that I like that I feel don’t cause a huge mess (but don’t quote me. Everyone’s experience is different) so I’ve linked them for you. To be honest - I used to hate slime but as long as we keep it at one location I really love it because my kids love it so much.
My Bookworm Box
This is a great gift option for the young readers in your life. This box sends young readers new books each month based on their age. Once you get the package in the mail you read what you want and enjoy and then you can either send the books back or decide to purchase them. It was created by a local Columbus mama and really incredible.
MRLY
This kids clothing line is another local business that I LOVE. The clothes are adorable and can be worn every single day. High quality, comfortable, and fun! They can also customize any of it. I had this purple dress made for my sweet girl and she wears it as much as I let her. She thinks it’s so special.
Art Supplies
You can never go wrong with art supplies. Puzzle books, coloring books, crayons, markers, just a stroll through the art supply aisle and you’ll find plenty to add to your cart. Art kits are such a win. It provides everything they need to create their next masterpiece.
Lite-Brite
This was a favorite of mine as a kid and I love that it’s back in stores.
Walkie-Talkies
This is something that isn’t thought of often but is such a fun toy for kids. We bought a green/blue set off of Amazon and they have lasted for years. They have turned into the gift we take to birthday parties when we’re not sure what else to get. I highly recommend them.
Memberships To Fun Places
I’m a big believer in experiences over things so be sure to check out my list of Favorite Memberships in Columbus if you want to go this route.
Everything Your VSCO Girl Needs | The Ultimate VSCO Girl Gift Guide
Putting this gift guide together has been SO MUCH FUN! I think by the end of it I realized I am a VSCO girl which means I’m basically a cool mom? I’m not sure but I’m going with it. :) VSCO girls love - oversized t-shirts, wears vans and Birkenstocks, love Carmex and scrunchies and of course is always sporting her Hydro Flask. You can shop for your VSCO girl easily here.
This post contains affiliate links. I may make a small commission if you choose to purchase the item(s) through my link. I only link to products I have tried and/or fully believe will be of use to my readers. This doesn’t increase the price for you at all.
Putting this gift guide together has been SO MUCH FUN! I think by the end of it I realized I am a VSCO girl which means I’m basically a cool mom? I’m not sure but I’m going with it. :)
What is a VSCO girl? I asked myself that question not too long ago and between research and living with one - I can say I firmly understand them. VSCO girls are essentially trendy preteen and teen girls who love the newest trends and are also passionate about the environment. From my understanding, it started as an insult but quickly became a badge of honor for many.
VSCO girls love - oversized t-shirts, wears vans and Birkenstocks, love Carmex and scrunchies and of course is always sporting her Hydro Flask. You can shop for your VSCO girl easily here.
Hydro Flask
I’ll be honest - spending $40 on a water bottle for my daughter is not something I ever thought I would do. The Hydro Flask has TempShield Technology that helps keep your drink hot or cold for hours. The Hydro Flask has a loyal fan base with VSCO girls because of the brand’s commitment to helping the environment and the fun trendy colors.
Stickers! Stickers! Stickers!
Adding fun stickers to your Hydroflask is a must. VSCO girls love the environment, turtles, makeup, fun colors, just to name a few things. There are so many inexpensive sticker packs on Amazon.
Polaroid Camera
Polaroid Cameras are SO MUCH FUN! I think it’s fun that this is included in the VSCO Girl trend. Who doesn’t love to take silly photos that print instantly?
Kanken Bag
Sleek design and a lot of colors to choose from! They have a fun purple one that I think I want - you know my love for all things purple.
Scrunchies
I know I’m not the only grown-up excited about the return of the scrunchies. :-) There are so many options online and in the stores. I’ve been told that velvet scrunchies are the best right now.
Pura Vida - Save The Turtles Bracelet
You’ll notice on this gift guide that loving the environment and protecting the turtles is a huge goal for VSCO girls. This bracelet is a fun way to let them sport their love for saving the turtles every single day.
Vans
Vans come in all different styles and colors and they are a VSCO girl favorite. My daughter has asked for the white checkered ones and the rainbow checkered ones.
Birkenstocks
If I love most of the things on this list - does that make me a VSCO girl? Birkenstocks are so cute and I appreciate that VSCO girls have good taste. There are many different styles but the rose gold ones are my personal favorite.
Facial Spray
I haven’t tried this product but I get why it makes the list. VSCO girls love products that are good for the world so it makes sense that they also want products that are good for their skin.
Reusable Metal Straws
Save the turtles. Save the turtles. SAVE THE TURTLES. It’s so important and one way we can do that is to get rid of plastic straws. This fun kit is a great way for your VSCO girl to have fun while loving the environment.
Wave Ring
This Wave Ring by Pura Vida (same company that makes the bracelet) is a cute accessory and inexpensive. It also stays on-brand for the VSCO girl by supporting a company that gives back to causes that are important.
Airpods
Who wouldn’t want a pair of Airpods?
Shell Necklace
This reminds me of summer vacations on the beach - getting the shell necklace, bracelet, and anklet set.
Bath Bombs
Again - who wouldn’t want an amazing bath bomb to kick off a relaxing day? These VSCO girls have great taste.
Lip Care
Fun lip gloss is a great stocking stuffer for your VSCO girl. Carmex is also a VSCO girl fav.
Save The Turtle Sweatshirt
The Awesome Company is a local company dedicated to employing adults with Autism and they can make anything you want! I asked them to make this Save The Turtles sweatshirt for my VSCO girl and she is obsessed with it. She’s been wearing it all week.
If you get any of these items for the VSCO girl on your list you can feel confident that she will be so happy. You can also check out my Amazon page with all of the links in one easy spot for you. :)
Children's Books to Educate and Inspire Before The 2020 Election
My husband and I take our kids to the polls with us, we have conversations with them about who we are voting for and why, and this year we are breaking open the following books to help us keep the conversations going...
If there is any year to start talking to our kids about the importance of voting and elections it’s 2020. My kids have a lot of questions this year and I think it’s in part to the news headlines they’ve seen, the conversations they’ve heard, and all of the things they’ve heard that I wish I could protect them from.
I personally believe that having these conversations while they’re young will help them learn to understand and make informed decisions later in life. My goal is to have these conversations with them now so they will ask questions as we go to form their own opinions and belief systems.
My husband and I take our kids to the polls with us, we have conversations with them about who we are voting for and why, and this year we are breaking open the following books to help us keep the conversations going...
Let’s jump right into the books…
VOTE!
Author Eileen Christelow explains voting, political parties, campaigns, debates, and more in an easy kid-friendly format. It had great reviews on Amazon so we decided to give it a try.
Grace for President
I remember being in first grade and hearing that there had never been a woman president and my teacher telling me that I would probably see that change in my lifetime. It was exciting to think about and I can completely understand why Grace was just as eager to run her own race to become President. It’s a fictional story that is a fun intro to the American electoral system while teaching about hard work and determination.
Hardcover Bold & Brave_ Ten Heroes Who Won Women The Right to Vote
Understanding the history of voting is an important part of learning why democracy and voting are so important. Reading the stories of the ten suffragists who fought for women’s rights to vote was fun and informative.
The Electoral College: A Kid’s Guide
Understanding the Electoral College is extremely important in understanding how voting works. This guide is great for kids as it walks through fair and balanced viewpoints while keeping kids engaged and informed.
The Kids’ Complete Guide to Elections
Similar to the Kids’ Guide to the Electoral College this book walks through popular questions kids have about elections, political parties, and election day. Like - what do donkeys and elephants have to do with our President and other elected officials?
Politics for Beginners
I liked this book because it spoke about the importance of understanding politics because it’s everywhere. Some questions it answers include - what is a dictator? How can one person change the world? What is parliament? Plus so many other questions. It’s part of a bigger series like Business for Beginners so if your child loves this, it may be a great way to open up other interests.
The Interactive Constitution
This book is SO MUCH fun! There are so many interactive features like color changing wheels, special vocabulary decoder, and more as they learn about the different types of government, checks, and balances, Bill of Rights, and all of the things important to understanding our Constitution.
Democracy for Dinosaurs
If you’ve looked through my other book lists you’ll notice a theme - there is almost always ONE that involves dinosaurs and that’s because my little ones love a good dinosaur story. To be honest, I haven’t read this book yet because isn’t released until September 8, 2020. However, from the snippets I’ve read, it looks like it will be a great book for the little ones.
Political Parties
A Few More We Love
Don’t Vote for The Duck
This book was sent to me by a PR company and my husband and I had a blast reading through it. The mean duck is running for President of Washington Elementary and it’s up to the rest of the kids to show up with kindness to stop him. It definitely hits on some important moments that we are currently facing that adults would recognize while being a fun engaging books for kids.
Start Now! You Can Make a Difference
You can make the world a better place by being you and this book talks about exactly that. I’m adding it to this list because I think in so many ways what we believe in and how we vote are so closely related and every single vote makes a difference.
11 Fun & Affordable Amazon Finds for The Creative Kid
This month we’re focusing on different activities for the creative kid - the kid that loves to have their hands moving, creating masterpieces, and staying busy. This list is packed again with affordable and fun activities you can enjoy this summer with your kids.
A few weeks ago I shared a list of Affordable Amazon Finds and the response was great! From what I heard you guys loved having a list of fun things for your kids to enjoy this summer while making it easier on the budget so I thought I’d make it a monthly feature.
This month we’re focusing on different activities for the creative kid - the kid that loves to have their hands moving, creating masterpieces, and staying busy. This list is packed again with affordable and fun activities you can enjoy this summer with your kids.
Bubble Wand
We bought this bubble wand out of pure jealousy, if I’m being honest. ;) Our neighbors had it and were making the BIGGEST bubbles ever and my youngest thought it was the coolest thing ever!
We had it for a few weeks before we could find bubbles but eventually we found a few large bottles at Target and stocked up (but we didn’t hoard it - promise)! We can now make the coolest bubbles ever as well. All of my kids love it.
DIY Kite Kit
I found this while researching for this post and was really intrigued. We love creating masterpieces in our house and to combine that with some outside play seems like a double win!
Create Your Own Book
I can’t be the only one with kids that are OBSESSED with telling stories...maybe it’s because their mom is too but either way we love writing and reading in our house and these books make it easy for the kids to put their wild imaginations on paper. I can’t wait to look back and read these again in 20 years. There are so many options I will link them all on my full Amazon page to make it easier.
Magic Kits
I thought this would be a great way to let the kids learn something new and express themselves. They can practice while I’m working, cleaning, etc and then put on a magic show for the family before dinner. It’s so much fun!
Friendship Bracelets
Did anyone else love KLUTZ as a kid? I loved art kits, art supplies, and all of the supplies. I wanted alllllll of these kits. This summer I picked up a few for my oldest. She can make friendship bracelets for all of her friends and we can drop them off while staying socially distant. It’s a win win.
Chain Reactions
Any other Lego fans out there? Legos fill our house so when I found this chain reaction book, I picked it up. It’s a great way to learn something new while enjoying a classic.
Popsicle Molds
Popsicle molds are always a win in our house!! Let them experiment with different flavors, add in mix-ins, and have fun with it. One of the classics in our house is a mix of frozen strawberries, frozen pineapple, and orange juice. My oldest has recently been experimenting with sparkling water and sprite.
Flashlights
Flashlight tag is a summer favorite in our house. It goes well with glow sticks and a night of s’mores. :)
Magic Bouncy Ball Kit
Full disclosure - we haven’t tried this one yet but it’s on our list. It looks like fun, when we finally try it I’ll be sure to share it with you on social.
Tie Dye Kits
Tie Dye Kits are widely popular among kids and teens right now. I’m also loving the tie dye trend. Grab your kit so you have everything you need and then pick up your shirts. Michael’s has a lot of great shirts in a wide range of colors that are perfect for tie dye.
Outdoor Art
I can’t be the only one trying to get my kids outside more. I find that buying lots of paint, big sheets of paper, and letting their imaginations run wild is a great way to do this. They can paint with brushes or their toes. I don’t care. Just have fun and keep it off the car :)
2019 Ultimate Teacher Gift Guide | 614 Mom |
I think we can all agree that the teachers in our lives deserve all the love we can give them especially during Teacher Appreciation Week. Whether it’s a homemade card, a quick gift off of Amazon, or a gift card to a local business the token of appreciation for your child’s teacher will be a welcomed surprise. I’ve got a great list of fun gifts for the teacher in your life on the blog.
I think we can all agree that the teachers in our lives deserve all the love we can give them especially during Teacher Appreciation Week. Whether it’s a homemade card, a quick gift off of Amazon, or a gift card to a local business the token of appreciation for your child’s teacher will be a welcomed surprise.
My son goes to Balanced Family Academy and we LOVE them. It was easy for me to trust BFA because of the research I did before we enrolled but what I could never predict was the way the teachers do everything so flawlessly. I have yet to meet a teacher at BFA that isn’t a complete angel. I’m super thankful for how they love my son and how they support our family as a whole.
This teacher gift guide is brought to you by the teachers at BFA. I’ve compiled all the research and added links to make it easier to shop - but all of these ideas came from the amazing teachers at Balanced Family Academy.
Amazon
Personalized Items (names)
Coffee Mugs or this one is super cute too
Markers/Paper for the classroom
Notebooks, pens, post it notes
Tumbler cup with a cute teacher saying. We live for those "best teacher ever" gifts
Gift Cards
Starbucks
Target
Sweet Water
The Blush Nail Salon
Target
Red Giraffe
Jeni’s
First Watch
Amazon
Candle Lab
Lakeshore
GIVE Yoga
Chipotle
Acre
Lovely Grain
Stauf’s
Local Cantina
Bibibop
Handmade
Letters of genuine appreciation
Cards by the children
Letters
A key chain one of the children made me. Every time I see it, it brings a smile to my face.
Stuffed Animal
Thank you card with family photo on it
Plants or anything handmade
Candle with child’s picture
Baked goods
11 Fun & Affordable Amazon Finds for Kids
It’s almost summer and that means more time spent in the backyard, cool summer nights outside looking for lighting bugs, and a lot of fun opportunities to make lifelong memories with your families. While summer may look a little different this year that doesn’t mean you can’t have the best summer ever! You also don’t need to spend a lot to make that happen! I’ve put together a list of items you can get online and shipped directly to you, at affordable prices, that will help make this the summer to remember!
It’s almost summer and that means more time spent in the backyard, cool summer nights outside looking for lighting bugs, and a lot of fun opportunities to make lifelong memories with your families. While summer may look a little different this year that doesn’t mean you can’t have the best summer ever! You also don’t need to spend a lot to make that happen! I’ve put together a list of items you can get online and shipped directly to you, at affordable prices, that will help make this the summer to remember!
Cotton Candy Maker
The purchase that inspired this entire blog post. I bought this on a day I was feeling really bored and wanted to try something new. I hadn’t bought a lot during this time and I think I needed a little retail therapy. My entire family loves cotton candy so I thought for under $30 I would give it a try.
I was so excited to try it and surprise my kids. Final thoughts - it works great, makes delicious cotton candy, and is perfect for a small family or a playdate treat. It takes a while to make a big fluffy cone of cotton candy but once you get the hang of it, it works really well and is easy. I also purchased some extra cones and ordered flossing sugar. Maybe one day we’ll try making cotton candy from hard candy but for now, I will stick with the flossing sugar. :)
Snow Cone Machine
This is the same brand as the cotton candy maker and while we haven’t purchased this yet, I plan to. It’s under $40 and from the reviews I could easily make lots of snow cones with it. My kids love popsicles, snow cones, and other cold treats throughout the summer. Normally I blend the ice in my Ninja but I like that this is made for snow cones and can make more at once than my Ninja. I love these snow cone holders and accessory kit.
Glow Stick Bulk
Long summer nights mean playing in the backyard in the dark. Glow sticks make the evening play even more exciting for the kiddos. We always buy some for nights like the 4th of July but who says you can’t play with them all summer long? Or have a glow in the dark party? So much fun for everyone!
Okay, so in all honesty the best deal you can find on these water balloons is at Costco. If you have a membership go buy these there because you can get about 400 balloons for $20 but on Amazon right now is still under $25. If you have watched a groups of kids have a water balloon fight you know those balloons go FASSSSTTTT! These balloons are our favorite. I always buy a few packs at a time to have on hand for those hot summer days.
Bump n Bounce
I’ve seen these for years and always thought they were funny but never purchased. My kids begged me to get them for them this summer so I went ahead and picked them up. I’ll update you on Instagram on how it goes but I’m excited to see this play out haha :) Under $20
Animal Sprinkler
There are many different variations of the popular animal sprinkler. Unicorns, dinosaurs, pandas, and more! You can find them at multiple stores in different varieties. They are fun to run through and not too expensive.
Stomp Rocket
My son got this for his birthday a few years ago and the mom who brought it said that it was always her to go birthday gift. I know why. This thing brought so much joy to my son. It’s a great activity for any day.
Bug Catcher
One of my favorite things as a kid was searching for lighting bugs, catching them in my bug catcher, and making up stories about who they were and this little bug family before letting them go. I know - I’m a little weird. It’s fine. :) There are so many fun options and it brings so much joy to the little ones. The kids on my street are already out searching for lighting bugs, even though it may be a little too cold for them yet.
Fairy Garden Kit
Fairy Gardens are great because they take time and effort to create and they also bring so much joy and imagination once they’re built. Don’t rush through it. Spend the summer creating the perfect space for your favorite fairies and watch those little imaginations run wild for months (maybe years) to come...
Flower Garden Kit
This was a fun find that I plan to get for my kids. It’s under $30 and helps them learn how to plant different flowers. I can’t speak to the quality but it looks fun and we plan to try it. Follow me on Instagram to see our final thoughts.
