CookiesKids.com Blog

Getting the Words Right

Fri, 03 May 2013 15:30:27 -0400

“Because I said so.” “You’ll grow out of it.” “Do as I say, not as I do.” Ever said any of these to your child? Sometimes phrases like these just seem to come out involuntarily. But just because a phrase sounds pretty snappy and seems to teach a lesson doesn’t always mean it’s communicating the right thing to your child. Let’s take a look at some parenting old saws and see if they couldn’t use an update.

“Do as I say, not as I do” – a phrase designed to forgive you of all your bad habits. If only it were that simple. The fact is, kids’ brains are wired to do as you do, so it’s an uphill battle to prevent them from behaving in a certain way if that’s the way you behave. Instead, try to lead by example, and cop to your faults. If your child calls you out on your hypocrisy – and they might – assure them that you’re trying your hardest to break those bad habits.

If your child asks you why they have to do something, statements like “because I said so” and “I’m the parent, that’s why” may not be the answer you’re really looking for. These dismissive answers can squelch a kid’s inquisitive nature, and if your kid becomes afraid to ask questions, their experience of learning will be seriously compromised. Instead, try to consider a real answer to whatever question your child has. Why does your child have to take out the garbage? There are lots of good reasons if you think about it. Here’s one: when a family divides its chores, it gets them out of the way more quickly and has more time to do fun stuff.

“You’re just like so-and-so” is an offhand grumble that can be pretty toxic. For example, if a child has been labeled as being “just like his dad,” he can potentially feel anger and shame every time Dad is criticized. Next time, instead of reaching for a generalizing comparison, just explain exactly what it was about your child’s behavior that disappointed you.

Tweens and teens are riddled with problems arising from their transition to adulthood. Have you ever tried to put one of your tween’s many problems in perspective with the phrase “it’s only growing pains” or “you’ll grow out of it soon”? While these phrases may be absolutely true to you, they imply to your child that whatever they’re going through is imagined or otherwise not “real” pain. Also, by telling them that they’ll “grow out of” something, it’s basically like saying “wait 2-3 years and get back to me” – nobody is that patient, especially not 12-year-olds. So instead, try littler ways of putting their problems in perspective. Once you’ve discussed the source of their angst, ask them if they think it’ll hurt so bad tomorrow, or next week, or next month. And as for whatever’s getting them down right now, provide the best antidote you can. Sometimes a bike ride or a trip to the movies can be just the right distraction.

When we use worn-out parenting phrases, we’re usually engaged in some kind of conflict with a child. Heated emotions can stir up heated words, so it’s important, as always, to take a few deep breaths and listen carefully to yourself and to your child. This will help you decide which phrases are what you really want to say and which are lame shortcuts. Are there any phrases you use that your child really hates? Think about why. And next time you reach for that phrase, consider a more thoughtful alternative.

Sources:

http://www.parentmap.com/article/5-common-phrases-that-parents-should-avoid

http://shine.yahoo.com/5-phrases-parents-avoid-20110407-091900-751.html

http://www.empoweringparents.com/6-things-you-should-never-say-to-your-child.php#

The Big Move!

Thu, 02 May 2013 15:30:24 -0400

Moving can be a monumental task, even if you’re just relocating a few blocks over, and long distance moves can take an emotional toll on kids because no one likes to leave friends behind. But your attitude towards moving and the ways you involve your children in the process will make all the difference in whether they love their new home or resent being there. Check out these tips for making your family move a smooth and successful one.

When it’s time to break the news to your kids, make a favorite snack or order up some pizzas and sit down in a comfy place; there will likely be discussion. Try to convey your excitement for the new place and the new opportunities that place offers for everyone in your family. Tell your children that you’ll depend on them for help and support throughout the moving process. But don’t stop there: make sure everyone in your family has a specific “job” during the move. If kids feel busy and involved, they’ll feel more positive about the experience and they won’t have time to second-guess whether moving is really such a hot idea. If possible, involve your children in selecting a new home, but keep in mind it can be taxing to drag little ones to visit half a dozen houses or apartments in a day. Narrow it down to some top choices before you ask kids for their input.

When packing up, take it slow. If you take your time and pack over the course of a few weeks, it’ll be a lot less stressful and allow you to be more organized. Try to label your boxes with descriptive precision; this is essential if your child is trying to track down a favorite toy on the other end. If you have a lot of stuff to get rid of, have a moving sale and make sure the profits go to something that benefits the whole family.

Before the move, don’t forget to make some memories of the home you’re leaving. Take some photos or, if you have a video camera, create a goofy home tour video with your kids – this can be a great thing to show off at a going-away party. Lastly, leave something behind for your old home’s new inhabitants.

It’s important to do lots of research about the new town, city, or neighborhood you’re moving to, and encourage your children to do the same. When you get there, be sure to set aside some time to explore with your kids. Visit schools, the library, community centers, and maybe a fun restaurant or two. It’s important to make your new home feel homey, so some of the first things you unpack on the other end should be favorite paintings, posters, or objects from the old place. If your kids’ rooms need some extra spark, check out some of our room and nursery décor – this could be a nice surprise for a kid who behaved in an exemplary way during the move.

It’s difficult to leave a home behind, but making moving really fun for your kids can help a lot, and if you look at moving as an adventure, it can be a blast. But throughout the process, make sure your child knows that despite the great changes moving brings, you’ll always be a constant in their life. Done right, moving can only bring a family closer together.

Sources:

http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/home/10-tips-for-moving-with-children10.htm

http://parentingsquad.com/tips-for-moving-with-young-children

http://www.pbs.org/parents/supersisters/archives/2010/08/moving-with-kids.html

Wives’ Tales, Old & New

Wed, 01 May 2013 15:30:33 -0400

Keep making that face and it’ll freeze that way! Watch out for those cracks in the sidewalk! Don’t swallow your gum or it’ll sit in your stomach till you’re in college! Old wives’ tales, urban legends – everyone’s heard a few. As a parent, maybe you’ve told a few, too. But where do old wives’ tales come from? Are they detrimental to kids, or do some of these old sayings really have a point?

Old wives’ tales originate with myths and oral storytelling. Fairy tales, with their plucky, clever heroines and heroes, were morality tales for children of olden times. Women told stories to teach children lessons and make difficult concepts like death or coming of age easier to understand. Often, these stories tried to teach children not to do certain things that were unsafe or considered immoral. That’s why a lot of old wives’ tales sound like threats. “Don’t do A, or B will happen!” B is usually something really unlikely, kinda scary, and easy to remember.

Thus, many old wives’ tales serve a practical purpose. Gum doesn’t actually stay in your stomach if you swallow it, but that doesn’t mean kids should swallow their gum. Gum presents a choking hazard, so if kids think something bad will happen if they swallow it, they’re actually right. It’s just an issue of substituting a more compelling consequence (“Wow! Gum just stays there? I don’t want that!”) for an actually scary one (choking).

Some parents may feel uncomfortable “lying” to their children with outlandish old wives’ tales. That’s a valid point. Older children can stand to hear that they shouldn’t make funny faces all the time because it’s immature, not because their face will get frozen like that. But for young kids, old wives’ tales can be an effective and fun teaching tool. They’re memorable, and sometimes that counts more than being entirely honest.

Here’s a fun activity to do with your spouse or some fellow parents. You have the formula for the classic old wives’ tale (“Don’t do A, or B will happen!”), so why not make up some of your own? Think of some dangerous or unpleasant thing your child does. That’s A. Now come up with a consequence, B, the weirder the better. Next time you see your child doing A, lay your “new” wives’ tale on them. See how they react. Chances are they’ll give you that wide-eyed look – and think twice about going on an A spree anytime soon.

Of course, if your child becomes truly afraid of an old wives’ tale, it’s time to step in and tell them it’s not true. But for most kids, there’s a sort of pleasure in gradually coming to the realization that nobody’s going to die if they step on a crack in the sidewalk. You could call that sort of pleasure growing up.

Oh No, Not the Doctor’s Office!

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 15:30:40 -0400

Does your child run when you say the word “doctor?” Doctors can be a source of fear, apprehension, and even guilt for youngsters, causing many parents to wonder what the big deal is. Here are some reasons why your child may feel iffy about the doctor and some helpful tips for putting your child’s mind at ease the next time they need a checkup.

Separation is one of the most common fears children face, and it comes into play in a big way at the doctor’s office. Little patients often fear that their parents may leave them in the exam room to be subjected to mysterious examinations alone. While most common in kids under 7 years old, this can be frightening through ages 12 or 13. To combat this fear, ensure your child that you can stay or go as they would prefer – maybe work out a secret signal, like a touch of the nose, to indicate that they’d rather have you in the room.

It’s a good idea to prepare kids of all ages in advance of their visit so there are no surprises that day. Be honest with your child about what their visit will entail – the needle will hurt a little, the blood pressure cuff will not. Talking about the doctor in a positive way can alleviate some of the anxiety created by perceived “stranger danger.” Remind your child that the doctor’s speed, efficiency, or detached attitude doesn’t mean he or she doesn’t care for them. If the upcoming appointment is a regular health checkup, explain that it’s a “well-child” visit: “The doctor wants to see how you’re growing and developing, and ask questions to make sure your body is healthy.” Encourage kids as they get older to ask any questions they have about their body and health.

Stress that all healthy kids go to the doctor; it doesn’t mean there’s something wrong. However, if your doctor visit is, in fact, to diagnose and treat an illness or other condition, explain that the doctor “needs to examine you to find out how you can get better.” Apprehensive about the unknown, some kids worry that their health problem may be much worse than their parents let on. Some who are going for a checkup suspect they will be surprised with surgery or hospitalization; some who are ill worry that they may die. In addition, they may harbor feelings of guilt, or believe that needing to go to the doctor for an injury or sickness – and making their mom and dad worry – is their fault. Kids who feel guilty may also believe that examinations and procedures are part of their punishment. Again, be as open as possible in communication with your child, and realistically assuage any fears they may have.

It’s important to remember that not many people look forward to going to the doctor or dentist – not even parents – so your child has a lot of company in their apprehension. But instilling the responsibility to take care of one’s body early and positively is important. Accepting the doctor as a helpful and caring figure is a meaningful step toward that goal, and a great start to a lifetime of healthy habits.

Sources:

http://kidshealth.org/parent/system/doctor/dr_visits.html

http://www.pbs.org/parents/talkingwithkids/health/doctor.html

Plan a May Day Celebration!

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 17:19:16 -0400

With weather warming, the sun shining, and everything coming back to life, you and your kids are probably getting a touch of spring fever. Why not celebrate with May Day festivities? Here are some fun ideas for celebrating this holiday’s traditions in your own backyard.

May Day has been around since ancient times. Traditionally, the holiday marks the beginning of farmable spring in the Northern hemisphere, and is associated with various Celtic and German festivals. Today, many European communities celebrate May Day by erecting a large Maypole in the middle of town, giving each other flowers and gifts, and dancing. The evening before May 1st, young people head out to find flowers and greenery, especially blossoming tree branches. This is called “fetching in the May.”

For your own May Day celebration, it’s fun to mix and match a variety of crafts and activities, traditional and not. Pretty much any act that celebrates spring is fair game. If you get up early to pick flowers, try indulging in another tradition: kissing the dew, or washing your face in the morning dew for beauty and good luck. Tie your flowers and twigs with some string or yarn to make garlands, or use them to make May Baskets. These are small baskets or cones filled with flowers and treats. Try leaving a May Basket on a neighbor’s doorstep, ringing the bell, and running away. May Baskets make great party favors, too.

Dressing up and putting on a show is another fun May Day tradition. Traditionally, May Day revelers select a May Queen, complete with throne and crown, to preside over festivities and dancing, but you may not want to single out just one person to fill this role; there can be many May Princes and Princesses at your gathering. Offer scarves, hats, belts, and other bits from the dress-up trunk to help children turn themselves into woodsmen, flower fairies, or anyone else who fits into your idea of a nature celebration. Sing songs about spring, and learn a few simple folk dances to really get in the holiday spirit.

The central event of May Day is usually the Maypole. If you don’t have a 50-foot pole lying around, you can make your own mini-May Pole out of a tent pole, tall cardboard tube, PVC pipe from the hardware store – whatever suits your needs. Just tie or glue strands of string or ribbon to the top and let them flutter down. Give one ribbon to each reveler and experiment with dance steps that weave different patterns around the pole. Try this one: circle up with half of the dancers going in either direction, weaving in and out of one another like a figure 8. Make it a game and get the grown-ups involved for a little healthy competition. Who can make the coolest pattern?

May Day is, at its core, a celebration of how nature flourishes again after a long winter. It’s also a great opportunity to remind your kids to leave their screens and get involved in some healthy outdoor fun. So what are you waiting for? Get planning and get outside for a May Day play day!

Sources:

http://quezi.com/6890

http://www.apples4theteacher.com/holidays/may-day/about.html

http://www.modernmom.com/article/how-to-make-your-own-maypole

Join the Club!

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 15:30:15 -0400

Is your child spending too much time in front of screens, alone and sedentary? Want to get them involved in some healthy and stimulating activities with other kids? Joining a club or team may be the answer. Group activities help kids develop teamwork and leadership skills, and let them meet friends with similar interests. But with such a wide range of activities out there, it can take some work to determine what club or team is right for your child. These tips can help.

First, start by collecting all the information you can about clubs and teams from various sources, like your child’s school, local library, and community organizations. Then, show your child all the brochures and flyers and ask them what looks good. Don’t rush them into a decision, or put pressure on them based on what you or your other children are interested in. There are lots and lots of options out there, all with their own pros and cons, and one of them is the right fit for your child.

If a certain activity jumps out at them, go with it. If they’re not so sure, help them pick an activity based on what kinds of skills it develops, and what values it enforces. Arts groups, like a marching band or theater production, help kids develop creative and collaborative skills. Scouting gives kids the opportunity to experience the great outdoors and serve their community. Political clubs, student government, and debate teams foster public speaking skills, quick thinking, and competitive instincts. Sports teams keep kids physically healthy and working together.

Whatever you come up with, talk through various options with your child over the course of a few days. When you’re in the deciding stage, it might be a good idea to reach out and meet the coaches and leaders of these organizations. A great coach or leader can be a major selling point to join one team or club over another, and can have a powerful effect on your child’s enthusiasm for the activity.

Many groups and activities, especially sports teams, require a tryout of some kind, and unfortunately not every kid is going to make the cut. What do you do if your child is rejected from something they really want to do? Sometimes just listening and acknowledging their frustration is enough. But also be sure to ask them what they want to do now. If they don’t have any ideas, try to help them identify what they liked so much about the team or group that didn’t accept them. Chances are you and your child can find another sport or activity with similarly appealing qualities.

Once your child finds a club or team they enjoy being a part of, keep tabs on their progress, and praise them for achievements they earn and skills they acquire. Most clubs and teams have opportunities for parents to get involved, and if you can spare the time, this sort of volunteering can be a valuable experience. Just make sure to check with your child first – some kids get embarrassed to have their parent hovering around all the time.

They probably won’t mind it so much, though, when you’re applauding their performance in a play or cheering after they make a 3-pointer. It may not happen immediately, but sooner or later your child will thank you for encouraging them to join.

Playing Favorites

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 15:30:25 -0400

“Mom, which one of us is the favorite?” Favoritism affects us immensely when we’re young, and can mold us as adults. Kids who were always playing second fiddle to a sibling can grow up to resent both that sibling and the parent who favored them; kids who played the “golden child” tend to be happier as adults, but can sometimes act imperious and entitled. If it’s severe, parental favoritism can even sow the seeds of real psychological problems. Obviously, you don’t want that for your children. So how do you make sure they don’t become the victims of favoritism?

First, take a hard look at whether you play favorites as a parent. Do you take sides in an argument between your children? Do you sometimes tell one child to take their cues from another? These actions may seem benign, but they’re actually subtle instances of favoritism. If you realize that you do play favorites sometimes, don’t beat yourself up about it; it’s a natural instinct. But there are measures you can take to curb that behavior and ensure your children feel equally loved and appreciated.

If you want to stop playing favorites, never compare one child to the other. “Emma finished her homework in under an hour. Why can’t you do that?” Saying something like this to a child only makes them feel ashamed, and probably won’t make them finish their homework any faster. Some parents would argue that fostering competition between their children works as motivation. In the short run, it does. But what that kind of parenting really communicates, especially to young children, is that the winner will gain your love and the loser will not. Try to exempt yourself from being the judge in competitions. In a dispute between siblings, insist on equal punishments. And don’t suggest that one child emulate the other, even if the other child’s behavior is exemplary.

Even if you never play favorites at home, your child’s teachers and coaches sometimes will. If your child reports that a teacher is playing favorites, attend a class yourself. If you notice the same behavior your child did, don’t hesitate to schedule a meeting with the teacher or coach and address the problem in a nonaggressive way. Sometimes there’s a perfectly good reason for perceived favoritism. Teachers tailor their teaching to each child’s unique personality and temperament; perhaps if your child isn’t being favored, it’s because the teacher feels they don’t need that extra attention.

To some extent, favoritism is unavoidable; it’s a natural human behavior, something everyone does. As kids get older, and build self-confidence, they’ll be able to cope with that fact more readily and shrug off favoritism. But until then, make sure the people your children look up to aren’t showing favoritism. Teach your children that appreciating people for their unique qualities is ultimately more rewarding than picking favorites.

Rainy Day Fun for Everyone!

Sun, 31 Mar 2013 15:30:14 -0400

If the last rainy day you spent inside with your child was full of tears, boredom, and tantrums – not to mention what your child was doing – then it’s time to take control. Check out these ideas to add a splash of fun to you and your children’s next rainy day together!

Try to work some physical activity into your rainy day plans. This can range from jumping jacks to a spontaneous dance party. Lead your child on some Russell Simmons-style workout video antics – always good for a laugh. Looking for something less sweaty? Let your child put on a bathing suit and goggles and go for a “swim” in the tub – with your supervision, of course. Or try a scavenger hunt around the house. Once your child has found all the items you’ve hidden for them, try hiding some treats for the family pooch.

Rainy day meals are always an excuse for fun projects in the kitchen. Try out a new recipe, or make an old favorite. If your child is up for an adventure, play a food guessing game with them: blindfold your child and see if they can guess various food items you give them. This can actually be a great way to get kids to try certain veggies for the first time.

Got an arts and crafts box in your home? Rainy days are a prime time to bring it out. If “What should I draw?” is a common question, keep a box full of small objects and cutouts from magazines to supply a wide range of topics. Looking for some crafting ideas? Check out some of these!

Rainy days are always more fun when you and your children let your imaginations run wild. If your child has a favorite board game, a rainy day is a great time to play it, but try making up some new rules, too. Or make up your own game entirely. Has your child ever made up their own country? Their own language? Their own holiday? Rainy days give you the time to explore these kinds of possibilities.

And while these activities are kid-tested for fun, rainy days don’t have to be structured at all. They’re a rare chance to get totally lost in play with your child, so don’t let the instinct to do a million new things get in the way of doing what you and your child love the most. Does your family have some favorite rainy day activities? We’d love to hear about them! Tweet us @CookiesKids or hit up our blog!

Overnight Success!

Sat, 30 Mar 2013 15:30:13 -0400

Most kids love a visit to Grandpa’s house, or a day with their favorite aunt. But what about spending the night, the weekend, or even a whole week with a relative? No matter how much your children may enjoy spending time with their relatives, the prospect of staying overnight with them can sometimes cause anxiety. But if you take the time to prepare your child, an overnight visit will be a valuable and fun experience. So check out these helpful tips to make sure your child’s visit with a relative is an overnight success.

Hopefully, your child has been to their relative’s house before, so the place is fairly familiar and they have some idea of what kind of behavior is acceptable there. If you want your child to be on their best behavior, it’s a good idea to give the relative a call discuss any house rules your child should know about. A little preparation beforehand can save your child the embarrassment and anguish of breaking a rule they didn’t know about.

Talking about the visit with your child can get them excited and soothe potential anxieties. Be sure to share some of the fun plans Grandma might have in store. Pack a comfort item for your child, like a favorite blanket or a special toy. Let your child know they can call you anytime, or, if you can’t take calls sometimes, let them know when they can call. When it comes time to drop your child off, keep your goodbye short and sweet.It’s best not to make a big deal about leaving.

What if you’re the one hosting a grandchild, niece, or nephew for an overnight stay? Kids thrive on activities, so have some in mind before the child comes, and when they get there, sit down and plan some more. What are we going to make for breakfast? Are we going to the park or to the beach? What bedtime story are we going to read? If the visit is for several days, invite the child along on some of your typical day-to-day activities. The child may find what you do fascinating.

If you’re going to be hosting frequent visits, it’s a good idea to keep some kid supplies in your home. Crayons, balls, blocks, and puppets appeal to almost any kid, and encourage grownups to join in with playtime. A shelf of picture books is a great way to have quiet time together. A high chair and crib are musts for overnight visits with little ones, as is a stock of kid-friendly snacks. Of course, you have plenty of leeway to give the child the sweets and treats Mom and Dad may deny them. Most parents will be so happy for a little alone time they won’t mind if Grandma spoils their kids by letting them stay up late and order pizza. Just remember to set ground rules, so the youngsters know that you are in charge tonight, and that if you say no to something, Mom and Dad agree.

Overnight visits with relatives are a fun and important childhood milestone. Learning to appreciate new places and accept relatives in mentoring roles can help kids grow and widen their perspective on the world. If you’re a parent, consider arranging a visit with your child’s favorite relative. And make sure your extended family knows that their children are always welcome in your home.

Sources:

http://www.creativeplayplus.com/2011/06/20/overnight-visits-with-grandma-part-1-tips-for-parents/

http://www.examiner.com/article/tips-for-overnight-visits-for-young-kids

http://www.creativeplayplus.com/2011/06/27/overnight-visits-with-grandma-part-2-tips-for-grandparents/

Family Fire Safety

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 15:30:09 -0400

Most kids have experienced fire’s allure. Their eyes light up at the twinkling candles on their birthday cake, and a mesmerized hush falls over them when toasting marshmallows on a crackling campfire. Kids are naturally curious about fire, but what begins as exploration can sometimes lead to disaster. How do you teach kids how to be safe around fire? Here are some hot ideas.

Believe it or not, young children are far more likely than older children to set play fires. And too often, child fire setters repeat dangerous behaviors because of lack of proper guidance and supervision by parents and teachers. If you find any fire tools stashed in your children’s “secret” places, like in their closets or under their beds, be firm with your reprimand. Keep fire tools in a secure drawer or cabinet, out of their reach.

As kids get older, take the mystery out of fire by teaching children that it’s a tool, not a toy. Show kids how fire is used in cooking and heating, and explain why it’s valuable but also dangerous. Ask them if they’ve ever burned their tongue on hot food or their finger on a hot pan. Explain that fire can do even more hurt, and should be treated with respect. Older children can even handle hearing about more serious consequences like burns and scars – just don’t overdo it!

Take time to give your family the tools to stay cool in a hot situation. Smoke alarms are the most important part of fire safety, so make it a priority to install them on every level in your home, test them each month, and replace the battery at least once a year. Consider investing in a fire extinguisher or two, and if you children are old enough to use them, make sure they know where they are. But the most important tool you can use to fight fire is knowledge: know what to do if a fire happens, and come up with a family fire plan. Begin with a basic diagram of your home; mark all windows and doors, and plan two routes out of each room. Serious consideration of a fire emergency might get scary for young children, so try and find ways to make learning fire safety fun. Make an art project out of your exit map using crayons or paint. Build a homemade obstacle course to practice crawling low on the floor, below the pretend smoke. Demonstrate how to stop, drop, and roll with a fun song or dance. Need more ideas? There are plenty of kid-friendly online resources, including fun fire safety games.

Even if a fire seems like an unthinkable prospect, it’s important to teach your little ones to observe fire safety rules. The best way to deal with a potentially scary situation is to be prepared, so cover all the basics. Fire won’t be so scary anymore.

Dressing Up for Spring Occasions

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 17:40:37 -0400

As temperatures rise and nature begins to reawaken, your family’s social calendar is bound to start filling up. For many families, springtime brings festive occasions, like religious holidays and weddings, and you’ll want your kids looking their best when those days arrive. But what do you do if your toddler screams and cries at the sight of a suit, or if your tween wouldn’t be caught dead in a dress? Here are some helpful hints to make dressing to impress fuss-free (and maybe even fun) for your children.

No matter how old your child is, the first thing they need to be is comfortable. It’s hard to have fun at a party when you’re itchy and irritated, too hot or too cold, or worried about wrinkling or lint. When selecting your child’s outfit for a special occasion, opt for light cotton blends, linen, and soft knits to keep things breathable. Remember that spring weather can be breezy and changeable, so that sweet sleeveless dress she loves might need a little something over it. If a cold day ends up turning into a sunny one, you can always peel away the shrugs, jackets, and cardigans for a lighter look.

When dressing young kids for special occasions, it’s important to keep a practical eye on things. Look for clothing that’s simple to unfasten or, ideally, pull-on. This can be especially important if your child is still potty training. When seconds count between a successful bathroom break and an unfortunate accident, kids need “dash-n-go” dress wear. Dresses with matching diaper covers and suit pants that pull on are great options for keeping things practical.

If your child is old enough to have an opinion about what they wear, it’s important to let them help pick their special occasion outfit. Many youngsters love to dress up, but if yours doesn’t, compromise is the order of the day. Some teens and tweens rebel against dresswear because it can seem frumpy, old-fashioned, or, worse yet, childlike. If she doesn’t want to wear anything too fluffy or pastel, try a stylish shirt-dress, or a skirt paired with a matching jacket and pretty T. Maybe a suit is too serious for him, but vests might satisfy both his desire to be trendy and your hopes of getting him into formal attire – you can even let him skip the tie, if that makes him more comfortable. You can also compromise with kids by letting them wear their favorite footwear – it can be a satisfying compensation if they’re not wearing their favorite outfit.

CookiesKids.com has everything you need to make those springtime occasions – and the family photo opportunities that come along with them – really magical. Be sure to check out our selection of suits and dresses, and stay tuned for our unbeatable spring sales – there’s a new one popping up every week!

Sources:

http://www.ehow.com/info_8209011_easter-dress-ideas.html#ixzz2OZNwh6Ks

http://childcare.about.com/od/enrichment/bb/dresscode.htm

http://www.femguide.com/tips-for-dressing-your-teen-this-christmas_19241?glamLinkTarget;csc=toe

i am from barbados and using a credit card shipping to florida, but my order is on hold, how can i rectify this?

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 12:22:26 -0400

Hello

You can contact customer service at ++1-347-689-0300 or 1877-942-6654 or customerservice@cookieskids.com. You can also live chat us (when available) from our website, www.cookieskids.com.

Hi I am not seeing St. Kitts and Nevis listed in the country options for me to include my billing address and I need to order some items ASAP to be shipped to Florida.

Sun, 17 Feb 2013 13:37:05 -0500

Hello,

At this time, CookiesKids Online only ships to countries serviced by the United States Post Office. You may place a phone order to ship to St. Kitts and a customer service rep can assist you with the shipping.

Store Opening Information

Sat, 09 Feb 2013 07:50:00 -0500

Cookies Department Stores will be opening regular time today Saturday February 9th.

Winter Fun for Everyone!

Tue, 29 Jan 2013 10:00:18 -0500

The novelty of the first snow has long worn off, and your kids are starting to wonder if their T-shirts and shorts have been put into permanent storage. Sometimes winter can seem…long. Thankfully, there are lots of ways to make winter an exciting time for everyone, whether you decide to embark on a weekend getaway or enjoy a “staycation” at home. With a little bit of creative thinking and planning, beating the winter blues can be easier than you think.

Some of the simplest – and most fun – winter adventures are ones you can have in your own backyard. Building snow forts and snowmen, sledding, and making snow angels are some perennial favorites. Ice skating can be fun, too; if there’s a rink nearby, enroll your children in a beginner’s class or sign up for a family skating session, and reward yourselves afterward with some hot chocolate and marshmallows. If the weather outside is truly frightful, a movie marathon is a great way to liven up a wintry weekend. Have each child pick a film according to a theme (such as animals or adventure), and make popcorn with special toppings (try M&Ms or chili powder) for an extra-special movie treat. If you’re in the mood to get out of the house without going far, checking with your local library or community center can yield many low-cost and free entertainment options: chances are, there are others out there in your area looking for stuff to do.

Another big part of winter’s fun is taking part in mountain sports, such as skiing and snowboarding. There are lots of ways to plan a winter sports trip without breaking the bank. Driving to a local resort is a lot easier on the wallet than paying for airfare to a megaresort. Plus, smaller resorts often have better lodging and lift ticket rates, saving you money on expensive amenities you most likely wouldn’t use if you’re out hitting the slopes. If you’re just starting out and unsure about investing in $350 skis or a pricey snowboard (and even less sure how you’d store them), a great way to save big is to borrow expensive gear from family and friends. If borrowing equipment isn’t an option, renting will save you time, space, and money. The one thing it does pay to invest in is a good snowsuit or other winter clothing, since you’ll be able to use it year after year. And nothing spoils a vacation like a kid whining the entire time because they’re too cold. So bundle up!

A snowy winter vacation may not be seem as exciting as a hot, summery one, but it offers its own unique opportunities for family fun. Simply taking the time to think about what activities your family enjoys can lead to a vacation full of fun memories and happy kids. Get planning today! And if you’re looking for winter gear, check out the selection at CookiesKids.com!

Sources:

http://stephaniesmommybrain.blogspot.com/2011/02/100-free-or-cheap-family-activities-for.html

http://www.vacationrentals.com/media/cheap-ski-vacation.htm

http://matadornetwork.com/trips/8-winter-adventures-to-get-kids-excited-about-the-outdoors/

Bon Appétit!

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 10:10:00 -0500

From getting messy with Mom’s flour to sneaking licks of frosting off the spoon, being a kid in the kitchen is a lot of fun. And although your little one’s first attempts at cooking dinner may not win them a place on Top Chef, encouraging their culinary curiosity now can reap delicious rewards later.

There are as many reasons to get your kids cooking as there varieties of potatoes (over 500, to be exact!). Reading a recipe strengthens their vocabulary and comprehension skills, while prepping food and cleaning up afterward reinforces cleanliness. Math plays a huge role too, from measuring ingredients to calculating substitutions and cooking times. And cooking with a partner encourages organization, teamwork, and sharing. From gathering ingredients to knowing if Dad already added the eggs to the flour, it takes concentration and effort to see a recipe through from the stovetop to the dinner table, and the rewards to this process are better than tangible: they’re edible!

If your little one has already discovered the joys of banging on pots and pans, it’s easy to get them involved in a more meaningful (and less noisy) way. For younger kids, start off with a simple recipe, such as fruit salad or cupcakes, then take a trip to the grocery store and have them pick out the ingredients. Back in the kitchen, clear off a space for them to help out with kid-friendly tasks like washing fruit or measuring flour. Establishing clear rules about what’s safe (the sink) and not safe (the stove) to touch is also extremely important, and make sure that whatever utensils you give your little one to work with are safe for their age and experience. Lastly, patience is key when cooking with kids, so don’t expect 30-minute meals to actually take 30 minutes.

Once your child has experienced the basics, move on to other kid-friendly dishes like soups and stews, and easy baked goods such as cookies and cakes. Take the time to explain each ingredient, noting its color, smell, and texture; it’ll take the mystery out of new foods and dishes, engage kids’ curiosity, and make them feel more connected to the act, and art, of cooking.

As kids get older, you can delegate more tasks and responsibilities in the kitchen. Try assigning older kids one night a week to plan and cook a meal for the whole family. Not only will this boost their confidence, it’ll also serve as an outlet of creative expression.

Getting your children involved in the cooking process can be a source of fun and inspiration for the whole family. Learning essential kitchen skills, and understanding the connection between food and the world around them, will help kids make smart food choices later on in life. And who knows – maybe they’ll pass Grandma’s super secret apple pie recipe on to their own children someday!

Sources:

http://www.pbs.org/parents/food-and-fitness/eat-smart/cooking-with-kids/

http://www.newparent.com/parenting-101-featured/cook-toddler/

http://www.epicurious.com/articlesguides/everydaycooking/family/cookingwithkids

Giving Never Felt So Good!

Mon, 07 Jan 2013 17:12:09 -0500

It’s been a wonderful holiday season here at CookiesKids.com. Our warehouse was bustling, our website was filled with holiday deals, and we worked around the clock to ensure that toys and clothes got to you in time for the holidays. But this year we also did something more. As a member of the NYC community, we knew we had to do something to assist those affected by Superstorm Sandy, so we found seventy-five lucky kids whose holiday seasons had been darkened by the storm’s devastation. Then, in partnership with American Express and the Brooklyn Nets, we gave each of these kids a $250 American Express gift card to spend in our store. Players from the Nets were on the scene to take pictures, sign autographs, and offer the occasional toy-related advice. The day proved a memorable one for these kids, who pushed huge shopping carts full of toys to the register with even huger smiles on their faces. But for a young basketball fan, there’s really no toy that can compare with a high-five from Deron Williams or Kris Humphries.

Call us sentimental, but we find that times like these make all the stress of the holidays worthwhile – the little moments of giving back. Did you or your family have the opportunity to give back to your community this holiday season? If so, we want to hear about it! Tweet us @CookiesKids or visit our blog.

If charity might have gotten lost in the shuffle this holiday season, we have a few suggestions on how you can still make things brighter for those less fortunate around you. Vacations from school are a great time to sort through kids’ closets and your kitchen pantry. See if you can put together some lightly used clothes (especially coats) and non-perishable foods to donate to Goodwill, the Salvation Army, or another community organization.

If your child receives some holiday cash from you or a relative, ask them to consider donating it to a charity of their choice. Try discussing with your family the charities and organizations you might want to support, based on your family’s unique values. Maybe there’s one organization you can all agree could use a few extra dollars for the New Year.

Lastly, consider those in your community who might not have anyone to visit them this holiday season, like the elderly or infirm. Try to spend some time with these folks. They could probably use some extra holiday cheer.

Charity doesn’t have to mean giving a down-on-their-luck kid a shopping spree in a toy store (though doing that was pretty fun!). It’s the littlest gestures that make the biggest difference, and they’re always twice as appreciated this time of year. Talk with your family about what giving really means to you. You might find some extra meaning in your holiday this year.

Happy Holidays from CookiesKids.com!

Best Behavior!

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 16:56:31 -0500

Are your kids always on their best behavior in public? Do you wish they were? Public places can sometimes bring out bad behavior even in normally well-behaved kids. Check out these tips to make sure that when your child goes out and about, they’re on their best behavior.

Preparation begins at home. If you don’t set high standards for kids’ behavior at home, they won’t know how to behave outside. As children grow older, and places like skating rinks, shopping malls, restaurants, and the movies become age-appropriate for them, start thinking about how you can prepare your child to transfer good behavior tendencies at home to good behavior in public. Point out positive things they do – like saying “please” and “thank you” – and tell them that in places like a restaurant they should do that stuff as much as they can. Any little way you can prepare them goes a long way. Next time you’re peacefully watching TV with your young child, try this line: “When we go to the movies together, I hope you can be as quiet as you are tonight.”

If you know you have an outing planned that might be a challenge for your child – like a fancy restaurant or a holiday party – take steps to prepare your child beforehand. Give them a little synopsis of what you think will happen at any given event – “the bride and groom will kiss, then we’ll hear some speeches, then we can dance” – just so there aren’t any unpleasant surprises. Explain that fun outings are a privilege that’s only earned by good behavior – and be specific about defining exactly what “good behavior” means to you.

Despite preparation and coaching on your part, it’s still possible your child will have a meltdown in public. Instances of bad behavior or tantrums flare up more frequently outside the home for many reasons; most often, it’s an instance of kids testing the boundaries. If your child starts throwing a tantrum in public, take some deep breaths. Remain calm and don’t argue with your child, because if you lose your cool, it can make their tantrum worse. Next, drop whatever you’re doing with your child and get them to an appropriate timeout zone. A public timeout can be a little different than a timeout at home, but try to select a quiet area to wait with your child until they’re calmed down and ready to behave. If timeouts don’t seem to work for your child, try other activities that calm them down. If a favorite toy or game seems to have a soothing effect on them, make sure you keep that item close at hand.

For a period of your child’s development, every trip outside the house will be a learning experience for them: how not to bump into strangers; how to deal with a world of unfamiliar faces and objects; how to react when other people around them prevent them from getting their way. It can be a lot for some kids to handle, so be patient. Make sure you note improvement in your child’s behavior, and reward them with praise – and the promise of more public outings – if they keep up the good behavior.

As kids get older and begin to go out on their own, they’ll apply what you taught them about good behavior, and see that things are a lot easier for them when they’re respectful of a certain behavioral code in public. It may not happen immediately, but someday they’ll thank you for showing them how to behave.

Sources:

http://childcare.about.com/od/volunteerism/tp/goingpublic.htm

http://healthland.time.com/2011/10/26/kids-behaving-badly-blame-it-on-mom/#ixzz2BTzVGoqA

http://www.life123.com/parenting/education/add-adhd/coping-with-tantrums.shtml

How long will the boots be on sale?

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 13:26:49 -0500

Hello

Once an item goes on sale, it usually stays on sale while supplies last.

Were there any coupons on the daily news for black friday?

Fri, 23 Nov 2012 12:22:56 -0500

Yes!