by Melissa Kay | Feb 7, 2020 | Blog, News |
Pouting and other problems. How to get the kids to get along. Sibling rivalry is real. Kids aren’t always going to be “besties,” especially if they’re related. One minute, they’re hugging and having fun. Turn around, and they’re tearing each other’s hair out. As a parent, you want your kids to be close, love one another unconditionally, and have each other’s backs no matter the circumstance. Then things get less-than loving. They scream and shout, steal each other’s toys, play the “blame game,” and say hurtful things that are hard to forget. Will they make up? Sure. But why all the “mess” just to get there? Face it moms and dads. Your kids are going to have their battles. They’ll break down and be “bad.” It’s all part of the sibling experience, and they’ll have to sort it out. But you can help move things along to a happier place by parenting effectively. Give them tools to take into consideration before lashing out. Teach them about talking things through or coming to you instead. Respect their differences, but don’t allow arguing that’s ineffective. Lead by example, even from an early age. When little ones see problem-solving skills that actually work, they’ll be more inclined to follow suit. Don’t expect things to be perfect. Kids need to go through these experiences to learn and grow. It may even be smart to let them “stew” in their own sibling rivalry to see how they navigate their way out. We can’t hand everything to them on a silver platter, but we can steer them in the right direction. Bullying is never acceptable,...
by Melissa Kay | Feb 2, 2020 | Blog, News |
Valentine’s Day always gets kids excited. After Halloween, it’s the second-best reason to indulge in chocolate. As parents, we don’t want them to go overboard, so moderation is key. You can limit their intake by making snacks that satisfy their cravings without the “sugar high” worry. Plus, too much candy is bad for their teeth and overall diet. These three recipes are tasty and healthful too. The chocolate flavor is front and center, and the kids won’t realize they are getting lots of nutrition along the way. Choco-nana Smoothie A tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder Large ripe banana Cup low-fat milk (or milk alternative) Small container banana baby food 2 teaspoons brown sugar 5-6 ice cubes Blend everything until smooth in a blender and serve immediately. Kids love the creamy consistency. It’s even good for a quick breakfast. “Berry” Good Chocolate Oatmeal Packet instant oatmeal (plain) 3/4 cup low-fat milk (or milk alternative) One tablespoon dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips Tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder Tablespoon honey 1/2 cup raspberries 1/2 cup sliced strawberries Prepare oats as directed with milk. Add more if you like a thinner consistency. Stir in the cocoa powder, honey, berries, and chocolate chips. Kids love seeing those chips melt into the oatmeal. Celery Stalks With Something Sweet 3 celery stalks, washed and completely dried, cut into 4-inch segments 2 tablespoons nut (or seed) butter of choice 2 tablespoons raisins Tablespoon dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips Spread the nut butter inside each celery stalk segment and press the raisins and chocolate chips evenly distributed onto each. Serve as an after-school snack…perhaps with a glass of low-fat chocolate...
by Melissa Kay | Feb 1, 2020 | Blog, News |
With kids taking up all your time, it’s understandable that you’re exhausted. But as any parent knows, there’s no such thing as “time off.” Even if you have help or hire a sitter for date night or going out with friends, you are never not in “parent mode.” Not even for a minute. Winding down seems impossible, but it’s important. Moms and dads need some peace in order to be the best parents they can be. If you can’t find that alone time you crave, there are still ways to chill out…with children around. As active as they may be, there’s always a way to get the kids to cool off. They get tired too, although it often seems like their energy is never ending. Here are some ideas to take things down a notch. You need it! Movie Night Cuddle up on the couch and watch a kid-friendly film. Puzzles Gather ‘round a big one and work on it together. Meditation Find your inner ‘Zen’ and breathe deeply. Indoor Camping Settle in for sleep in the living room. Warm Milk And Cookies Indulge and unwind with a sweet treat. Post-Supper Stroll Chit chat and reconnect as you walk around the neighborhood. Coloring Bring out the art supplies and experience calm creativity. How do you wind down with the kids around? For more information like this, please visit All My Children’s blogs. By: Melissa A....
by Melissa Kay | Jan 26, 2020 | Blog, News |
It’s Time To Try Something New! Does your child avoid vegetables at every meal? The dinner time tantrums and leftover lunches make eating well a challenge. You want your child to get proper nutrition, but the lack of veggies in their diet is concerning you. You’re not alone, but that doesn’t mean giving in or giving up. Of course, we can’t expect our kids to love every food we put on their plate. We all have preferences and favorites, as well as foods we never want to taste, not even a bite. But some children won’t even give certain veggies a chance, and that’s where you’ve got to get creative. Here are some tips (and tricks) to incorporate more veggies into your child’s diet. Before long, they’ll be asking for seconds! Omelets Lots of kids love eggs, and omelets are an easy way to cook them. Diced veggies can be stirred into the egg mixture before cooking, and the finer the chop, the better. Top the omelet with shredded cheese and serve with ketchup on the side. When your child doesn’t see large hunks of veggies, they won’t be as hesitant to try them. Pizza What kid doesn’t want pizza? Make your own at home with a store-bought pizza crust, or create pita pizzas you can pop in the toaster oven. Beneath the sauce and cheese, layer thin slices of veggies like bell peppers and zucchini. Keep in mind, the pizza sauce provides a serving of veggies, so be generous when you spread it on. Hummus Hummus is rich and creamy, full of flavor, and fun to eat. Rather...
by Melissa Kay | Jan 25, 2020 | Blog, News |
Flip through the pages for reading enjoyment this holiday! Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. We love our kiddos to the moon and back, and a box of chocolates just won’t cut it. Although the kids sure enjoy satisfying their sweet tooth! When you want to show your little ones how precious they are to you, books make great gifts. Not only will your child appreciate the adoration and attention, but you’ll be happy they have something new to read. Valentine’s Day books are adorable, and the messages of care and compassion jump off the pages. These books below are perfect for kids, as well as parents who enjoy seeing their kids’ faces light up with love. Hug Machine by Scott Campbell Who doesn’t want a hug on Valentine’s Day? Then again, hugs are welcome any day of the year. This cute book is all about the hugs, and when you’re done reading, a tender embrace will be expected. Happy Valentine’s Day, Mouse by Laura Numeroff This book is designed for the younger kids (preschoolers) to teach them about Valentine’s Day and the meaning behind it. Follow along as Mouse spreads the love in his own little way. Love Monster by Rachel Bright Big fluffy monsters need love too, and this book shows kids that love comes in all shapes and sizes. Even the “monsters” who feel left out can seek out happiness. Where Is Baby’s Valentine? by Karen Katz This interactive book allows children try to find baby’s Valentine within the pages. The touch and feel aspect makes reading an even more rewarding experience. My Fuzzy Valentine...
by Melissa Kay | Jan 24, 2020 | Blog, News |
Kids love to get their hands on everything, but some items that seem like toys are not what they appear to be. Older kids and teens are more aware of what they’re doing, and in most cases, the following information won’t apply. But for the little ones, parents, pay close attention. They May Be Fun, But Beware Those tiny magnetic balls, or beads, (sometimes called Buckyball magnets) sold to adults for keeping themselves occupied, to swirl in their hands, link together, and so forth, are just as interesting to kids. They’re designed to reduce stress and alleviate boredom. But adults know better than to put these magnets in their mouths. Even kids who don’t intend to swallow them may accidently do so, and in some cases, the repercussions can be a real health hazard. Stat News explains, “Rare-earth toy magnets, marketed under names like Zen Magnets and DigiDots, are composed of tiny, high-powered magnetic balls or cubes, some smaller than the tip of a ballpoint pen. The shiny and colorful pieces, sold in sets of up to 200, can be 30 times stronger than a standard kitchen magnet, making them the most powerful commercially available permanent magnets.” Too Easy To Swallow As per Poison Control, National Capital Poison Center, “More and more children have been swallowing the tiny ‘adult toy’ magnets, leading to severe injury and even death. When a child swallows two or more magnets, the magnets can attract and meet each other within the child’s body, causing digestive tissue to be trapped between them. This cuts off blood supply to the stomach or intestines. These internal injuries...
by Melissa Kay | Jan 10, 2020 | Blog, News |
We welcome you to attend an OPEN HOUSE at our Ridge Street location on Sunday, Jan. 19th, from 11-2. See our facilities, speak with the staff, meet other parents in the area, and more. The state-of-the-art facility is a wonderful environment for your children. We feature an emergent curriculum as well as an eco-friendly environment. The kids can have fun while you’re there with arts and crafts and free play. Address: 110 Ridge St. Lower East Side, NY 10002 Date: Jan. 19th Time: 11AM – 2PM RSVP by calling 212-419-5416 or click HERE to do so online. All My Children has 30 years of experience with children. Our staff is top-notch and our Ridge Street location is sure to impress you. We look forward to seeing...
by Melissa Kay | Dec 16, 2019 | Blog, News |
Give The Kids Some Leeway While School’s Out Winter break is always a blast, as the kids have a couple of weeks or so off from school to spend with family. While the schedule shifts, it’s a nice treat to break the rules a bit, allowing the kids to do something fun before bedtime. They’ll be thrilled that you’re willing to loosen up, making their winter break even better. Here are a few ways to make the kids smile as you surprise them with pre-bedtime fun. You don’t have to do anything over-the-top to make an impression. It’s the little things that go a long way. They’ll be so grateful that you’re being extra-generous. Movie Madness Gather the family for movie night in the main room or in one of your bedrooms. Pop the popcorn, heat up some hot cocoa, and sit and snuggle together to watch a family-friendly flick. Even if the movie lasts past their bedtime, it’s no big deal since there’s no school the following day. Supper On The Sofa If your house rule is that kids can only eat at the kitchen table, shock them by serving dinner in the den. Use paper plates and make sure you’ve got plenty of napkins! Sure, there may be a few spills and crumbs everywhere, but clean up is quick. The kids will think it’s fun to feast where it’s normally frowned upon. Sibling Sleepover For those who have more than one child, let them sleep together in one room if they have their own rooms. They can camp out in the living room as another option. If...
by Melissa Kay | Dec 9, 2019 | Blog, News |
Kids love smoothies because they think they’re milkshakes. Parents wouldn’t dare serve ice cream concoctions for breakfast, but the kids won’t realize how nutritious their smoothies are when you make them taste so satisfying. Give your kids a healthy drink before school that’ll have them convinced you’ve lost your marbles and made milkshakes. When you blend up the ingredients and pour out something sweet and smooth, you’ll have them fooled. Honey Banana Oat Smoothie You’ll Need: 1/2 cup quick-cooking oats (dry) 1 medium ripe banana ½ cup plain Greek yogurt 2 tablespoons honey 1 cup low fat milk 5-6 ice cubes Plop everything in a blender and blend until smooth and creamy. Pour into a glass and serve. It’s a drinkable oatmeal that’s especially unique. “Pumpkin Pie” Smoothie Ingredients: 3/4 cup canned pumpkin purée 1 small ripe banana 1 cup soymilk 1 teaspoon nutmeg 1 teaspoon cinnamon 2 teaspoons light brown sugar 5-6 ice cubes Blend all ingredients until combined and creamy and pour into a glass. Sprinkle some extra nutmeg and cinnamon on top for a kick. Almond Butter Apple Smoothie What’s In It: 2 tablespoons almond butter 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and diced 1/2 cup unsweetened apple sauce 1 cup almond milk 2 tablespoons maple syrup 5-6 ice cubes Combine all ingredients in the blender until creamy and frothy. Pour and serve. Kids may enjoy some extra apple slices to dunk. Do you make smoothies for your kids? What’s your favorite recipe? For more information like this, please visit All My Children’s blogs. By: Melissa A. Kay...
by Melissa Kay | Dec 4, 2019 | Blog, News |
Winter is upon us, with chilly weather that makes us all want to stay inside. When the snow starts piling up and icicles form nearly instantly, it’s time to snuggle up and stay warm. What better way to do so than with loved ones? Sure, “vegging out” on the couch and watching TV or playing video games is one way to pass the time, but there’s more fun to be had when outdoor play is too treacherous. Here are some ideas for family time during the winter, especially on those days when school is closed due to the weather. Hot Cocoa And Cookies Treats are tempting, particularly when tummies are grumbling. Kids love to help out in the kitchen, so get to baking and be creative. Mix in chocolate chips, nuts, and raisins, and top your cocoa with fresh whipped cream and marshmallows. Yum! Family Slumber Party Get the whole gang together in the family room with plenty of blankets, pillows, and sleeping bags. Tell jokes and share stories. Everyone can pile up and fall asleep on the floor, then wake up when the sun rises for breakfast, picnic-style. Dance And Karaoke Show off your talents (or lack thereof) as you move and groove. Play some music, sing along, and have a mini dance party to liven up the mood. Holiday tunes are perfect this time of year to raise spirits and bring smiles. What do you enjoy doing with your family when you’re stuck indoors? Share your ideas and we’ll give ‘em a try! For more information like this, please visit All My Children’s blogs. By: Melissa A....
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