Halloween, Treats and Food Allergies

If you have a child with food allergies, you know how scary a holiday like Halloween can be, and I'm talking about more than just scary costumes or creepy yards.  Most kids who participate in activities such as trick or treat, trunk or treat or even church harvest festivals will unwrap and pop a piece of candy in their mouth before you even notice.

Last year, I heard about the teal pumpkin project.  Basically, if you have a teal pumpkin outside, it is a symbol that you are offering non-food treats for the kids.   Although I had already bought candy before I heard of this, I thought it was a good idea.   I have a daughter who has struggled with some dye allergies so I can appreciate it when something other than candy is offered.  It's also nice for kids with braces who can't eat the chewy treats.  I did not put out a teal pumpkin because I had candy but I also offered non-food items like spider rings, Play-Doh, sunglasses, etc.  I let the kids decide which bowl they wanted to choose from.  Glow sticks would be another fun alternative and you can get them inexpensively from Dollar stores.  For anyone who might consider participating, here is more information on the Teal Pumpkin Project.

This year,  I'm thinking I will buy some books of Frosty coupons from Wendy's.  A book of  5 Jr. Frosty coupons is only $1.00 and the proceeds go to the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption.  100 coupons for $20.00 seems like a great deal.  The money goes for a great cause and I think most kids would love a free frosty.

Autumn Leaf Mason Jars & Fun Idea's with Leaves!

Although the heat of summer is still here, Autumn is quickly approaching!   I've already noticed some of the leaves on the trees starting to change.   Most of the leaves are still green but I see splashes of orange, red and yellow here and there. 

When I was teaching preschool, I took my students on a leaf collection nature walk every fall.  I gave each of the children a bag to collect pretty leaves on our walk.  The leaves were used for sorting, rubbings, our sensory tub and all sorts of fun activities.  I recently found a really easy and pretty fall craft to do with my own children.  Autumn leaf mason jar candle holders.   All you need is a collection of leaves, a mason jar, Mod Podge and a paint brush or sponge brush.   Even very young children can help collect leaves for this project.  When working with young children, the adult may want to do the Mod Podge but older children can do this with supervision.   The festive jars would be a beautiful decoration for the Autumn months.  I think they would look really pretty on a table decorated for Thanksgiving.   Put a tea light candle inside and enjoy!  Check out the link for pictures and directions.  Autumn Leaf Mason Jars.

Fourth of July Fun Ideas! Fireworks Art & Food!

This would be an easy & fun patriotic art project for preschool and Kindergarten children. You will need a fork, red, white and blue paint and construction paper to make these Fireworks!

How cute and yummy is this Fourth of July toast for breakfast?  Give it a try and find out!  Patriotic Flag Toast!

For a fun and healthy Fourth of July snack, make fruit kabobs into the shape of the American Flag.  Patriotic Fruit Kabobs!

Free Family Friendly and Kid's Activities.

I recently found out about this really cool program in Michigan.   You can use your library card as a pass for some great free activities.  Print a pass that is good for 7 days ands gets you free access to many state parks, campgrounds, museums, etc.   I don't know if other states are doing this too but what a neat idea!   Check out the link and if you live in Michigan,  type in your zip code to see what is available.   Michigan Activity Pass.

Fun Easter Crafts & Homemade Gifts

Easter will be here soon and I found some super cute and easy to make gifts.  I'm thinking about doing a couple of these with my kids.  Cute & Crafty Easter Gifts!