Remember when you couldn’t get your kid to stop talking? You would ask them about their day, and you would get a full rundown about how they woke up, everything they ate, and each and every conversation they had with their friends. Now, getting a full sentence out of my teen is like pulling teeth.

Things have changed, but the good news is that building a solid connection with your teenager is absolutely possible. In this article, we’re talking about practical tips that will help you break the ice and get your teenager to open up to you like old times.

Effective Communication with Teens

1. Keep it Casual

Sometimes, it is easier just to keep it light in the beginning. By keeping it casual, you can help them feel more comfortable about opening up about the bigger stuff later. Ask them about their favorite music, who they are following on YouTube, what Netflix shows they’ve been watching. Even asking about what they want for dinner will keep the lines of communication open.

2. Respect Their Space

Privacy is a big deal for teenagers. Knock before entering their room, and resist the urge to read their diary. By giving them space, you’re showing that you respect their independence. This may seem counterintuitive if you are trying to open the lines of communication, but respecting their space shows that you respect them as a person as well.

3. Sneak in a Little Silliness

Break the ice with a dash of humor. Share a funny meme or tell them about your own teenage mishaps. Try searching for memes of their favorite video games or hobbies. Share a YouTube video of a comedian they might like. Laughter has an uncanny way of making conversations flow.

4. High Fives for Honesty

When they do share something, even if it’s not what you expected, high-five them for their honesty. Whether it’s their dreams, fears, or even a crush, showing non-judgmental support keeps the channels open.

5. Story Time with a Twist

Relive your teen years with stories about your escapades. Like that time you got caught sneaking out? They’ll see you as a real person, not just someone who sets the rules.

6. Make “Date Nights” a Thing

Life gets busy, but so do their lives. Create special moments, like a movie night or a cooking adventure. Trust me, they’ll be more willing to chat while cooking up a storm.

7. Embrace the Digital Age

Texting isn’t just for emojis—it’s a secret tool for heartfelt chats. Drop them a message, like “How’s your day going?” or “Wanna chat about that new episode?”

8. The Power of “What If”

Swap yes-or-no questions for “what if” inquiries. “What if you could travel anywhere right now?” These open-ended questions make room for longer, more meaningful talks.

9. Patience is Your Superpower

Let’s face it, sometimes they’ll clam up. But don’t give up! Keep trying and let them know you’re there when they’re ready. Persistence pays off, trust me.

10. Let Them Make the Call

Involving them in family decisions shows you value their opinions. Whether it’s the next vacation spot or the weekend plans, their input matters.

Communicating with Teens Doesn’t Have to Be Hard

There you have it, fellow parents—our top ten strategies for melting away the teenage communication barrier. By taking a friendly approach, sharing laughs, and respecting their space, you’re setting the stage for open and genuine conversations. Remember, it’s a journey, not a race, so be patient. Your efforts to connect with your teenager will pay off in the form of deeper understanding and a stronger bond that will last a lifetime.

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It all started with a horse…My son was maybe 6 or 7 years old, and we had just gotten him the Java Edition of Minecraft for the computer. He caught on pretty quickly, but he got frustrated as all get-out one evening because he could not figure out how to ride a horse. After looking it up on Youtube (along with a slew of other newby things), I finally decided it would be easier just to download it for myself.

I wouldn’t admit it to my friends, but it was pretty freaking cool. Much more complex and interesting than I was expecting. Thankfully, my husband felt the same way.

Ever since then, we have played together as a family, and it is one of my favorite things to do with my son.

Sure, it may seem like a silly game, but I have found that playing Minecraft with my son has some unexpected benefits. From getting a chance to bond to teaching life skills, here are some of the many reasons I love playing Minecraft with my kid.

The Benefits of Playing Minecraft With Your Kid

1. It is Great Bonding Time

Playing Minecraft with my son gives us something to do together that we both enjoy, without any of the usual eye rolls or grumbling. There is no pressure to talk about what is going on in his life, and I’m not nagging him to do his chores. We just play.

2. Playing Minecraft Gives us Something to Talk About

Let’s face it, as parents, we’re not always the coolest people to talk to. Getting my son to talk about his day (or anything really) is like pulling teeth. But, when it comes to Minecraft, he’s happy as a clam to spill the beans.

3. I Get to See My Kid’s Creativity in Action

Watching my son create amazing structures in Minecraft is one of the coolest parts of playing the game together. I love to watch him build, and I’m constantly amazed by how crazy fast he is with redstone. It is so cool to see what he comes up with.

4. We Get to Practice Working Together as a Team

When we first started playing Minecraft as a family, my son was pretty selfish with the resources. My husband and I would spend a bunch of time mining and farming, and the kid would swoop in and take whatever he wanted.

Now, things are much better. We’ve learned how to work together as a team towards a common goal. What my son lacks in time spent mining, he makes up for with automatic farms and saving our bottoms during raids.

5. It’s Great for My Son’s Self Esteem

There are still some things I can do better than my son. I generally win at chess, I am a better cook (at least for now), and there are one or two other things that I can do better than he does.

But, when it comes to Minecraft, the tables are turned. If he’s had a tough day, sometimes “letting him win” (ha ha!) in Minecraft mini games is just the ticket.

6. I Get to Learn New Things from My Kid

One of the things I love most about playing Minecraft with my son is that I get to learn new things from him. He has a seemingly endless supply of knowledge about the game – from cool tips and tricks to creative ways to build structures. It’s been fun to see him take the lead and teach me new things, which has also given me an opportunity to bond with him and see the world through his eyes.

7. It’s a Fun Way to Teach Important Life Skills

OK, so my son will not need to worry about how to fight creepers and Ender dragons in real life, but he still learns a lot of important life skills. Together, we learn about resource management (always re-plant your trees!), how electricity works (redstone is cool!), efficiency (automated farms), problem-solving, building, working together as a team, and more!

8. I Get to Impress My Son (Every Now and Again)

I’m not gonna lie…I have done internet searches specifically to find cool little Minecraft hacks and Easter eggs, just to try and impress my kid. He doesn’t care that his t-shirts are folded like a pro or that I weeded and mulched the flower beds, but he was impressed that I learned how to turn a cow upside down.

9. I Actually Enjoy Playing Minecraft

After a long day, sometimes I just want to relax and unwind. It is pretty Zen to make the rounds: harvesting crops, breeding the animals, and then trading with the villagers.

Why Minecraft Will Always Have a Special Place in My Heart

I hope that after reading this article, you can see why Minecraft is more than just a game to me – it’s a way for me to bond with my son and create some pretty cool memories together. From exploring new worlds to learning new skills, Minecraft has provided us with endless hours of family entertainment.

But more than that, Minecraft has brought us closer as a family. We’ve laughed, learned, and worked together to create some truly impressive builds.

So if you’re looking for a fun and engaging way to connect with your child, I highly recommend giving Minecraft a try. Who knows – you might just discover a new passion and make some pretty good memories along the way.

The post 9 Great Benefits of Playing Minecraft with Your Kid appeared first on Wild Edisons.

With over 140 million active users, there is a pretty good chance that you have at least 1 Minecraft player in your family. That can actually make it easier when it comes to gift-giving. At least you have a place to start!

My Son’s Favorite Minecraft Gifts

When it comes to gift ideas for Minecrafters, there are tons of options. But, the gifts below are things we actually own and have been well-vetted. From Lego’s to decor, these are some of my son’s favorite Minecraft-related gifts.

Minecraft Legos

Maybe it is because both revolve around blocks, but Minecraft and Legos are a perfect match. Many kids who play Minecraft are also into Legos, so they make a perfect gift for Minecraft-lovers.

We have a number of Minecraft lego sets now, and they are some of the few Lego sets that we actually mix together. The individual sets are fine, but mixing them together is way more fun. We have used them for stop motion video, school projects, and just putsing around. When we lived in an RV, we even used them to make our Christmas tree each year!

A Working Minecraft Torch

This torch lamp is so freaking cool. What you can’t see in the picture is that one side of the bottom flips down so that you can mount it to the wall at a 45 degree angle. It really looks just like it does in Minecraft!

Minecraft Card Game

If you want to get your kid off the computer for a bit, this Minecraft card game might be just the ticket. It isn’t very hard to play and it is small, so it travels well. It isn’t as good as the real thing (obviously), but it isn’t a bad way to spend a rainy afternoon.

Minecraft Potion Light

In the same vein as the Minecraft torch lamp, the potion bottle light makes a great gift for kids who play Minecraft. My son’s friend got it for him for Christmas, and it was (and is) a huge hit.

Minecraft Guides

My son has an older version of this set of guides, and has read them cover to cover a number of times. Even though he knew just about everything there was to know about the game, they were still a handy reference. I can’t get him to donate them, even though his are painfully out-of-date.

More Minecraft Gifts

We haven’t actually tried the Minecraft gift ideas below, but they look pretty darned cool. Everything on here has gotten 4+ stars on Amazon, so even though I haven’t vetted them myself, they should make pretty good gifts.

Minecraft Mini-Builds

Speaking of ideas…This book looks like loads of fun. It has great ideas and easy-to-follow instructions for smaller builds.

Minecraft Playing Cards

If you like the idea of a small, non-computer-related gift, but you don’t want to learn how to play a new game, Minecraft playing cards might work. These come in a travel tin and would make a good stocking stuffer for any kid that plays Minecraft.

Minecraft Magnetic Logic Puzzle

I wish they had this magnetic logic puzzle when we lived in an RV…The small size and magnetic pieces would have been perfect for the RV life. I love the fact that it is educational as well!

Minecraft Stuffed Animals

My son has a stuffed glow squid that he loved, but I couldn’t find the exact one on Amazon. There are actually quite a few options for Minecraft-themed stuffed animals, but these got really good reviews.

Minecraft Joke Book

OK…So this Minecraft joke book is totally up my alley. I am always up for a good joke, and as a Minecrafter myself, I think this book would get a few good snickers from any kid (or adult) that plays. I flipped through it (virtually on Amazon), and I can see why it has gotten such good reviews.

Minecraft Idea Book

Regardless of how creative you are and how long you have been playing Minecraft, it is always good to get more ideas. Flipping through this book (virtually), I was stunned by some of the builds.

The post Minecraft Gifts: Great Gifts for Kids Who Play Minecraft appeared first on Wild Edisons.

As the mother of a teenager, I can confirm that thinking of gift ideas for teens can be tough. They’ve outgrown most of the little kid toys, but they may not be ready for adult stuff. So, what do you do?

The list below isn’t long, but it has been approved by my teenage son. Maybe they aren’t right for your teenager, but hopefully it will lead to some other ideas. Enjoy!

Teenager-Approved Gift Ideas for Teens

1. Portable Charger

Portable chargers are THE BEST. My portable charger has gotten me through countless long trips, many power-outages, and plenty of heavy phone days. After constant request from my son to use my charger because his device was “almost dead!”, we finally wised up and got him his own. 

View This Portable Charger
Shop for Other Portable Chargers 

2. Phone Charging Station

If your teen is constantly losing or forgetting to charge their devices, a phone charging station might not be a bad idea. Once they get used to putting their phone and such in the same place, they will always know where to look for it.

View This Phone Charging Station

Shop for Other Phone Charging Stations

3. Cell Phone Gloves

I don’t know how they work, but cell phone gloves allow you to use a touch-screen on a cell phone without taking your gloves off. These are a great gift idea for teenagers who hang out outside a lot. 

View These Cell Phone Gloves

Shop for Other Cell Phone Gloves

4. Steam Gift Card

If your teen plays video games, a Steam gift card might be just the thing. Steam is an online gaming system that allows you to purchase tons of online games. (I would recommend finding out if they use Steam to play games first. No sense in wasting money. Plus, you’re going to need their Steam username as well for the gift card.)

One thing to note here…In order to get a Steam gift card, you have to sign up for a free account for yourself first. Then, you need their username in order to send the card. It is a bit of a pain, but this is one of my teen’s favorite gifts.

Go to Steam

5. Amazon Gift Card

This one is pretty tried and true. My son can almost ALWAYS find something he wants on Amazon. Amazon gift cards are also good if you have an idea for what you want to get them but want them to be able to pick out the exact item they want.

Buy an Amazon Gift Card

6. Cash

It isn’t glamorous, but you really can’t go wrong with cold, hard cash. Whether it is for little things like candy or money towards something larger, cash is a much-appreciated gift for teenagers.

You can still make it personal by putting it in a card with a message. You can even get creative by wrapping it up in a box or putting it inside another gift. 

7. Get-Out-of-Chores-Free Coupons

For free gifts for teenagers, coupons to get out of chores or extra screen time might work. It doesn’t have to be fancy. You can try creating one on a computer or just write them out by hand. They can all be for the same thing or different coupons for different things.

Some ideas for coupons include:

• Get out of doing dishes
• No chores today
• Extra screen time (Specify how much)
• Stay up late
• You pick the movie
• Your favorite meal
• Family game night

It also isn’t a bad idea to add disclaimers like:

• One time use only
• Only for use on the weekends
• Expires XX/XX/XXXX

See? Finding Gifts for Teenagers Isn’t Hard

I hope you were able to find something on this list that would work for your teen. Sorry there were a number of things related to phones, but a lot of teens have phones these days. If your teenager doesn’t have a phone or just isn’t into it like a lot of teens are, hopefully you found something else that will work.

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Are you tired of hearing the words “I’m bored” every time your kids are stuck indoors? When it’s too cold, too hot, or too wet to play outside, it can be a challenge to keep kids entertained and engaged. Fortunately, there are plenty of fun and creative indoor activities that can keep kids of all ages occupied and happy.

In this blog post, we’ll share some of our favorite indoor activity ideas that are perfect for rainy days, snow days, or any day when you need to stay inside. Whether your child loves art, science, or just playing games, we’ve got you covered with activities that are sure to keep them entertained and learning. So, get ready to banish boredom and have some indoor fun!

Ideas for Fun Indoor Activities for Kids

1. Have a Paper Airplane Contest

Making and flying paper airplanes is a classic indoor activity that kids of all ages can enjoy. You can find tutorials online for different types of paper airplanes, or let kids come up with their own designs. Once they’re made, you can have a contest to see whose plane can fly the farthest or do the best tricks.

2. Learn Their Favorite Video Game

One fun indoor activity that can encourage bonding between you and your child is having them teach you their favorite video game. This is a great way to spend quality time together and learn more about their interests. Find out some of the many reasons I love playing Minecraft with my son.

3. Tell a Story with Legos

Pull out the Legos and use them to tell a story. You can use Legos that have already been built or build as you go. (You might want to start by separating out the people and accessories, just so you know what you’re working with.)

4. Build a Temporary Indoor Obstacle Course

Setting up an indoor obstacle course is a great way to get kids moving and burning off energy, even when they can’t go outside. You can use pillows, cushions, blankets, and even furniture to create different challenges for kids to navigate. For example, you might have them crawl under a table, hop over a pile of pillows, and balance on a beam made of sofa cushions. To make it even more fun, time them and see if they can beat their own record.

5. Make a Cardboard Castle

Building a cardboard castle is a great way to encourage creativity and imaginative play. You can use cardboard boxes of different sizes and shapes, then let kids decorate them with paint, markers, or stickers. You can also add other items, like cardboard tubes or paper towel rolls, to create towers or drawbridges. Once it’s built, kids can use it as a play space for their toys or act out their own medieval adventures.

6. Have a Puppet Show

Creating puppets and putting on a show is a great way to encourage creativity and storytelling skills. Kids can make puppets out of paper bags, socks, or paper plates, and decorate them with markers, yarn, or googly eyes. Once they’re done, they can use a cardboard box as a stage and put on a show for family and friends.

7. Try Some Science Experiments

Trying out simple science experiments with household items is a great way to teach kids about the world around them. You can try experiments like making a baking soda volcano, creating a density tower with different liquids, or making slime with glue and borax. Just be sure to supervise and help younger kids as needed.

8. Have Some Fun in the Kitchen

Kids can learn valuable skills in the kitchen while having fun making their favorite treats or trying out new recipes. From no-bake cookies to homemade pizza, the possibilities are endless. Aside from learning the concept of measurement, your kids will also have the opportunity to understand what it means to prepare a healthy meal. Be sure to teach them the important of safety in the kitchen as well.

9. Get Crafty

Activities that involve arts and crafts are ideal for kids to build up their creativity. Drawing and painting as well as making wood and paper crafts are examples of art activities you can teach your kids. Try one of these jewelry activities for kids or search YouTube for simple craft projects and give something new a try!

10. Play Dress Up

Regardless of gender, many kids enjoy dressing up. Incorporate this game to a mini theatrical home you will direct at home. This is an opportunity for your children to develop their acting skills and use their imagination. To make the activity more interesting, consider using props and wearing colorful costumes. When doing a play with your kids, it’s normal for them to run wild so avoid imposing rules because it may cause them to lose interest.

11. Sing and Dance

Another activity you can get your kids exposed to is singing or dancing. Try combining these two activities to make things more interesting. Don’t limit your kids to a single type of music, instead, introduce them to all kinds of fun music including pop, dance, and even hip-hop and kids rock and roll. Some parents may not love the idea of teaching these kinds of music to kids but if they are properly guided, they can use the opportunity to hone their musical skills.

12. Play Board Games

Aside from these, you can also teach your children other indoor activities that involve educational board games like chess and scrabble. Always find opportunities that will help your children develop and improve important skills and be there to guide them as they move along the process.

13. Have a Scavenger hunt

Scavenger hunts are a fun way to challenge kids’ problem-solving skills and get them exploring their surroundings. You can create clues that lead kids to different rooms or objects in your house, or hide objects around the house for them to find. You can make it more challenging by adding riddles or puzzles that they have to solve to move on to the next clue.

14. Play Charades

Charades is a classic game that can be adapted for kids of all ages. Make a list of easy-to-act-out words or phrases and have kids take turns acting them out while the others guess. This is a fun and engaging way to encourage communication and creativity.

Hope You Found an Indoor Activity that Inspires You!

There are plenty of indoor activities that can keep your kids entertained and engaged, no matter what the weather is like outside. From creative crafts to educational experiments, there is something for every child’s interests and abilities. By providing a variety of indoor activities, you can keep your kids learning and growing even when they’re stuck inside.

Remember, indoor activities don’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. Sometimes the simplest activities can be the most fun and rewarding. Whether you’re making a homemade fort, baking cookies, or playing a board game, the key is to have fun and enjoy the time spent together as a family. So, the next time you’re stuck inside, try out one of these indoor activity ideas and make some memories with your kids.

The post Boredom Begone! 14 Fun Indoor Activities for Kids appeared first on Wild Edisons.

Well, since I already have posts for Best Books for 2 Year-Olds and Best Books for 3 Year-Old Boys, I figured it was high time for me to put together a list of the best books for 4 year-olds. You may notice just a couple of repeats, but just because my son is a year older, doesn’t mean he no longer likes books from when he was “little”.

Without further ado, below are my 4 year-old son’s favorite books!

The Day the Babies Crawled Away
(Find out more or buy through Amazon…)

Right now, this is one of my top 3 favorite books. It’s rhythm and rhyme make it fun to read and the pictures are phenomenal. If you look closely, you can see that the sun gradually sets as the story is told.

TIP: Look for the upside-down baby. There is one on almost every page!

Flotsam
(Find out more or buy through Amazon…)

My sister-in-law sent this book out of the blue, and I immediately fell in love. There are no words, but Flotsam proves that a picture is worth a thousand words. The story is absolutely magical.

Gulliver Snip
(Find out more or buy through Amazon…)

Yes, this is a repeat from my Best Books for 3 Year-Olds list, but I love it too much to not put it on this list as well. The day that I read it for the first time, I actually contacted the author and told her to write more books. I haven’t written an author since a 4th grade reading assignment. (And, yes, she responded. Double stars for Julia Kay!)

The True Story of the Three Little Pigs
(Find out more or buy through Amazon…)

Any book that involves huffing and puffing is a fun read, but I also dig the story. It is a spoof on the Three Little Pigs (duh), told from the point of view of the wolf. I am not keen on the fact that he ate the pigs (it isn’t graphic or anything), but I guess that is how it went in the original story.

Hand, Hand, Fingers, Thumb
(Find out more or buy through Amazon…)

My 4 year-old son and I both love reading this book. “Rings on fingers. Rings on thumb. Drum Drum Drum Drum Drum Drum Drum.” The rhythm and rhyme make it absolutely addictive, and the pictures are too cute!

The Foot Book
(Find out more or buy through Amazon…)

The Foot Book is classic Seuss; easy for early readers and so much fun to read. It is my go-to book whenever I want my son to practice his reading because he enjoys it so much he doesn’t even notice that he is doing all the work. (Sneaky, sneaky.)

Dinotrux
(Find out more or buy through Amazon…)

Lord help me, but my 4 year-old loves this book. Frankly, I am a little tired of reading this one, but I have to include it in the list because my son thinks it is the bees knees. As a parent, you have to suspend all semblance of reality as you read; but just about any 4 year-old boy will love it.

Harold and the Purple Crayon
(Find out more or buy through Amazon…)

So simple, and yet so perfect. Harold and the Purple Crayon is a sweet story about a boy who has a little adventure, armed with nothing but his imagination and a purple crayon. The drawings are simple, but still so engaging. It is a nice, calm read before bedtime.

I Broke My Trunk!
(Find out more or buy through Amazon…)

When you read this book, you absolutely must pinch your nose when you speak for the elephant. It is a requirement. I like a lot of books by Mo Willems, but this is my favorite to read because it makes my 4 year-old laugh out loud. Always a good thing when making a life-long reader.

Where the Wild Things Are
(Find out more or buy through Amazon…)

This book is a classic, and it is easy to see why. The story is beautifully written with wonderful rhythm. Even though it does not rhyme, it still reads like a poem. My 4 year-old is entranced by the pictures, and I love reading it.

Big Plans
(Find out more or buy through Amazon…)

Big Plans is about a little boy who is sent to the corner in school where he thinks about his plans. This is another one of those books where the main phrase has made its way into our family vocabulary. Now, Edison will say, out of the blue, “I got big plans! Big plans, I say!” Too funny…

I Am A Leaf
(Find out more or buy through Amazon…)

This book is such a great way to explain what leaves do to little kids. I discovered I Am A Leaf when Edison was 2 years old, and now I check it out from the library every fall. Although it is perfect for autumn, it goes through the entire life-cycle of a leaf, so it works year-round.

The post The Best Books for 4 Year-Old Boys appeared first on Wild Edisons.

For 3 years-old, my son has become quite the literary critic. He spends quite a bit of time, thoughtfully choosing the picture books he wants before bed. Some of the books inevitably get chosen time and time again…and again…and again…

Obviously, there are countless amazing picture books out there, but these are some of his absolute favorites. Check out our list of (what we consider to be) the best picture books for 3 year-old boys.

Gulliver Snip
(Find out more or buy through Amazon…)

The very first time I read this book, I absolutely fell in love with it. It has everything, and I mean everything, that I look for in a great children’s book. The story is imaginative and reads like a poem without being too rhymey. The pictures are beautifully done and the idea is wonderfully unique. When my preschooler asked to read it again a few hours later, I had no complaints. I love this book!

Mungo and the Spiders from Space
(Find out more or buy through Amazon…)

Little man is all about rockets right now, so this book is just perfect. It is about a little boy reads a book and gets to join in a space adventure. The pictures are interesting, the storyline is cute, and it is fun to read. (Thanks for adding this to the library, “Glandpa”.)

How do Dinosaurs Say Goodnight?
(Find out more or buy through Amazon…)

This book is absolutely perfect for a 3 year-old boy. First, it is about dinosaurs. But, what I love is how I can make references to it during bed time. “Hey…”, I say when my son whines about going to bed. “Do dinosaurs do that at bedtime?” Of course they don’t. This book makes bedtime a lot nicer.

Hare and Tortoise Race to the Moon
(Find out more or buy through Amazon…)

I actually found this book when I was pregnant. I was looking for books with high contrast images because I read that babies found them more interesting. Well, my son wasn’t really interested in it as a baby. No surprise. But, now as a 2 year old, this is one of his favorite books. This is one we have to hide or else we would have to read it every night.

Please, Puppy, Please
(Find out more or buy through Amazon…)

I found Please, Baby, Please at a thrift store and immediately went on a hunt for more books by this incredible author/illustrator team. Both books are easy to read, great for practicing sight words, and the pictures are mesmerizing.

The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog!
(Find out more or buy through Amazon…)

I adore Mo Willems…He has a knack for writing easy-to-read books that are fun for both kids and adults. Edison is so engaged when we read this book, and that is half the battle with spirited kids.

Chicka Chicka 123
(Find out more or buy through Amazon…)

Known in our home as “Chicka Chicka Number Boom Boom”, this one instantly held a number 1 ranking for our 3 year-old. It is a sequel to Chicka Chicka Boom Boom (obviously). Although it focuses on the numbers 0-20, the numbers 0-100 are listed in the back. Every time we read it, my son insists on counting each number. This wouldn’t be too bad, but if he messes up, he starts again. Ugh. But, he is learning to count to 100, so it is totally worth it.

Making the Moose Out of Life
(Find out more or buy through Amazon…)

This book makes me happy, and Edison can tell. I love the art, and I love the message. It is about a moose who goes off on an adventure and finds there is a lot more to life than he thought. My husband and I just love the message, and it is such a good thing for kids to learn when they are young. (Actually, we love a number of books by this author…see more.)

Blue Hat, Green Hat
(Find out more or buy through Amazon…)

Blue Hat, Green Hat has a special place in my heart because it was the very first book that my son read cover to cover. It is so much fun to read all because the “oops” make my son laugh every time. (If you read the book or look at the Amazon preview, you will know what I mean. )

Shark VS Train
(Find out more or buy through Amazon…)

When my husband brought this home from a book fair, I rolled my eyes. Could a book be more boy? But, when it was my turn to read it, I changed my tune. It goes through different types of challenges and whether a train or a shark would win. Silly, but it sparks some great conversations. I wouldn’t say it is my favorite book, but it is certainly one of my preschooler’s top picks.

Little Pirate: What’s in the Egg?
(Find out more or buy through Amazon…)

I finally had to hide this book for a little while because my son picked it so often. Don’t get me wrong, I totally get why my 3 year-old loves this book. It has flaps and dials surprises and all the things that boys his age love. And it’s educational…I think I just talked myself into bringing it out of hiding.

P.S.
In case it isn’t obvious, I love picture books as much as my son. I put a lot of time into looking for books for him, and I can get a little picky. Check out my post on how I choose the best picture books for my son.

The post Best Books for 3 Year-Old Boys appeared first on Wild Edisons.

Traveling with toddlers can be a wild ride. They’re cute, they’re nutty, and they always seem to be hungry. Seriously…why do they need to eat every five minutes?

As a parent, it can be tough to find healthy snacks that your toddler enjoys, especially when you’re on the go.

Luckily, using my son as a guinea pig , we have found some tasty (and relatively healthy) snacks that are sure to please. They are perfect for road trips, airplane flights, or any adventure where you and your little one need a healthy nibble. They will keep your kiddos fueled and happy, and hopefully, prevent any hangry meltdowns.

Who knows, you might even discover a few snacks that you want to steal for yourself. (Hey, I won’t judge.)

Brothers-ALL-Natural Fuji Apple Crisps

We discovered these freeze-dried apple slices about a year ago and now they are an absolute must-have in our pantry. I love the fact that apples are the only ingredient and there are no preservatives or nasty stuff.They are crispy like potato chips, so our toddler thinks he is eating junk food when he is actually eating a healthy snack. Brothers has other types of fruit as well.

The strawberries and bananas are good, but they are crumbly and make too much of a mess for traveling. The Asian pears are actually the best, but for some reason the pears do not have free shipping through Amazon. So, I recommend the apples.

Annie’s Homegrown Organic Bunny Fruit Snacks

These gummy snacks have saved us on countless outings with our toddler. While they aren’t quite as healthy as the apple slices, I don’t feel too guilty about them. The nice thing about gummies is that they take longer to eat, so they last awhile. Plus, they aren’t really filling, so they don’t spoil his dinner too much. They sell them in individual packages, but I buy the bigger bags and use little travel containers. We have a lot less waste this way because I can portion them out better.

YummyEarth Organic Lollipops

We bought these before our first airplane ride with our toddler. I read somewhere that when you fly with a toddler, you should give them a lollipop or a pacifier during takeoff to keep their ears from popping. Of course, lollipops come in handy in other traveling situations too. I chose these because they are made with fruit juice instead of sugar and crazy preservatives. If you haven’t introduced your toddler to lollipops, try them at home first. The first few times were pretty messy because our toddler didn’t really know how to keep his mouth closed around the stick yet. He would just sit there smiling and drooling sticky juice.

Annie’s Homegrown Organic Cheddar Bunnies

When we are out and about and my toddler is about to gnaw his arm off, these cheesy snacks buy us enough time to finish up and get to some place with proper food. He loves them and they are healthier than the other cheesy crackers out there. They are small enough to eat in a single bite, but big enough that they don’t fall out of those little snack cups. (You know the ones that let their hands in but keep the snacks from falling out.) I am pretty sure they sell these in individual servings too, but I portion them out in individual containers.

Horizon Organic Reduced Fat Milk

I couldn’t believe it when I found this…Milk that doesn’t need to be refrigerated until after it is opened! This stuff is amazing! I throw one 8 ounce serving in my bag and hit the road. If my toddler drinks it, cool. If he isn’t in the mood, I just put it back in the pantry when we get home. The only downside with this wonderful product is that they don’t have a whole milk version. (I called the company and made a suggestion though.) We buy the plain milk, but they also have chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla.

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Most toddlers can hear just fine, but you wouldn’t know it from the way they act! It’s tough to get their attention, but it’s important that they understand when it’s time to listen to you.

As a parent, it can be difficult to get your toddler to pay attention and listen, but it’s essential for their growth and development.

With a few simple tricks and some patience, you can help your little one learn to listen when it matters.

Tips to Get Your Toddler to Pay Attention and Listen Up!

1. Establish a Catchphrase

Find a word or sound that means “Listen Up!” and use it every time you want your child to focus on what you’re saying. Make sure to set a good example when you use it, and watch out – your child might start using it on you too!

2. Make Eye Contact

When you need your child to listen, get physically down on their level and make eye contact. Hold their chin gently and use your catchphrase from above to grab their attention. Over time, they’ll begin to associate your catchphrase with listening and start paying attention.

3. Focus on the Positives

Instead of just using a lot of “No’s,” try to make listening a positive experience for your child. Start using your catchphrase to praise them for good behavior, such as eating all of their dinner or putting away their toys.

4. Eliminate Distractions

Turn off the TV and step away from toys to help your child focus. When you’re out and about, try to find a quiet spot to get your child’s attention that is free from distractions.

5. Whisper, Don’t Shout

If your child isn’t listening, it can be tempting to raise your voice, but try speaking in a quieter tone instead. This will spark their curiosity, and they’ll come to investigate. Speaking in a softer voice also sets a good example for quiet behavior.

6. Try Yoga Breathing

This simple breathing exercise is a great way to get your child’s attention and help them focus at the same time. Lead them in a deep breathing exercise where they lift their hands over their head as they inhale and lower them as they exhale. This will get their attention and calm them down, making them more receptive to listening.

7. Be Patient

This goes for your child as well yourself! Remember, listening is a vital skill that takes time and patience to develop. Set a good example by being patient with your child and teaching them to be a better listener.

Getting Your Toddler to Listen isn’t Impossible

Teaching your toddler to listen can be a frustrating task, but it’s well worth the effort. By establishing a catchphrase, making eye contact, focusing on the positives, eliminating distractions, whispering instead of shouting, trying yoga breathing, and being patient, you can help your little one develop their listening skills and set them up for success in the future.

Practice with the day-to-day stuff so that in an emergency, your child will have the skills to pay attention when it really counts.

Looking for things to do with your toddler? Check out our list of our favorite books for 2 year olds!

The post 7 Simple Tips To Get Toddlers To Pay Attention appeared first on Wild Edisons.

When you find out you are pregnant the first thing you want to do is go to see the doctor, especially if you feel you have found out late in the pregnancy. This will make sure the doctor has a good look at your health and the child’s health and gets you on a program to fit the two of you best.

Keep Your Appointments

Keep every single one of the appointments you have with your medical care provider in order to stay one step ahead of any situation that may develop. Appointments are scheduled at calculated intervals so the doctor can monitor every stage of fetal development and how your body is effected by the pregnancy. To make sure the both of you are in tip top shape, don’t miss an appointment!

Drink Safe Water

Make sure the water you’re drinking during your pregnancy is safe. Tap water may contain fluoride, percholate, and lead, while bottled water may contain the same impurities as well as other chemicals such as BPA. Instead, invest in a tap water filter, and use a stainless steel or glass water bottle when out of the house.

Avoid Drugs

A pregnant mother should at all costs avoid any sort of drugs, whether they are alcohol, nicotine, or heavier drugs such as heroin. Your baby can and will develop a chemical dependency in the womb. This also is not to mention the possibility for birth defects. If you’re an expecting mom, stay away from drugs!

Avoid Gas Stations

Use full-service gas stations while pregnant, or ask your partner or other passenger to fill the tank for you while you wait in the car. The gasoline fumes that are emitted by the gas pumps at a service station can be harmful to your baby. It’s better to simply ask someone else to help than to take that risk.

Sleep!

Sleep whenever you get a chance to during your pregnancy. Difficulty sleeping is one of the biggest complaints women have while pregnant. As our bodies go through these massive changes, the ease of being able to get a full night’s sleep decreases. Take naps when the opportunity presents itself.

Announce When YOU Want to Announce

Do not feel required to announce your pregnancy to everyone as soon as you know. All women have their own comfort zone regarding when they want to tell everyone. Some women wait until they have reached the end of the first trimester and the highest risk of miscarriage is over. Listen to your heart and share the news when you are ready to.

Take Your Doctor’s Advice

If you recently found out you’ve got a little bundle of love growing in your stomach the first advice anyone ought to offer is to take all the advice of your physician. They did not make it through med school because of good looks! Listening will help make sure your baby is its healthiest and happiest when it arrives.

Visit Your Chiropractor

Visit your chiropractor regularly. During pregnancy there is a lot of stress and weight put on your spine, hips and other joints. Do yourself a favor by having a regular adjustment. It will keep you feeling better, more limber and prevent those aches and pains of pregnancy.

Have a Happy and Healthy Pregnancy!

By following our essential pregnancy tips, you’ll be on your way to a happy and healthy journey to motherhood. Remember to keep your healthcare provider in the loop and enjoy this special time. With these tips, you can feel confident and empowered as you prepare to welcome your little one into the world.

Once the baby is born, be sure to check out our parenting tips! We have loads of great advice for everything from keeping your kid’s toys clean to healthy snack ideas!

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