Why & How To Celebrate National Children’s Day June 12th

Why & How To Celebrate National Children’s Day June 12th

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“The days drag, but the years fly by,” according to a common parenting adage. Amid the hustle and bustle of a busy week of work, school, sports practices, dinners, and bedtime routines, it’s all too easy to lose track of how we spend our daily minutes.

In fact, 6 in 10 parents worry they aren’t spending enough “quality time” with their children, and 1 in 3 children say their parents “work too much.” While parents report feeling happiest playing games with their kids, watching tv together is the most common activity.

National Children’s Day, celebrated this year on June 12th, reminds us to slow down our fast-paced lives, turn off technology, and focus on togetherness. 

The History of National Children’s Day

Reverend Dr. Charles Leonard of Chelsea, Massachusetts first set aside this day in 1856 to hold a special baptism service and addressing problems affecting the child welfare.

Formally, different administrations have chosen different days to celebrate — the second Sunday of October (1989-2000), the first Sunday of June (2001-2016), and November 20th (2016-present).

Because of all these changes, people choose when they want to celebrate. The second Sunday in June is truest to the original proposed date — and also the nicest weather-wise, so why not take a moment the weekend before Father’s Day to celebrate the “future changemaker” in your life?

How To Celebrate National Children’s Day

Sometimes it can be difficult to come up with a mutually satisfying activity, as kids often prefer imaginative play which adults may find boring. Here are a few ideas to get the gears turning:

  • Go to a park — preferably one with a playground (and pack a picnic!)
  • Dine out — show your child to your favorite restaurant (bonus for an outdoor patio!)
  • Road trip — check out one of these nearby locations within a few hours of the East End
  • Play board games — consider some of these expert and parent-tested classics
  • Make a craft — stop by the Shine studio to pick up a custom-themed craft bag
  • Play Hide & Go Seek, catch with a ball and frisbee, or croquet in the yard
  • Visit a family activity center — try roller skating, go karts, bowling, and mini golf
  • Organize a dance party — all you need is music, but add balloons to make it more fun!
  • Paint — create a family mural to make a lasting memento of your memories
  • Hike, bike, or swim — fresh air and activity is a nice change of pace to work and school
  • Stop by the Shine studio — drop in for a class, workshop, or dance session

Consider this opportunity to break from routine, explore the outdoors, share family stories, ask your child about life, and start new traditions. If you want to connect with the larger parenting community, you can share your adventures using the social media hashtag #NationalChildrensDay.

How to Help Your Kids Benefit from Boredom

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With summer break a little over a month away, you can almost hear it now: “I’m BORED.” 

While the slumpy complaining and morose attitude can be frustrating to witness, all boredom is not created equal—and most types are actually good for child development.

Researchers have identified five types of tedium:

  • Indifferent boredom – relaxed, withdrawn, indifferent
  • Calibrating boredom – uncertain, receptive to change or distraction
  • Searching boredom – restless, active pursuit of change or distraction
  • Reactant boredom – motivated to leave a situation for specific alternatives
  • Apathetic boredom – the unpleasant feeling of helplessness or depression

Researchers say living in this Age of Information overloads our minds with information that produces a scarcity of attention and the ability to engage in productive activities. Allowing boredom provides the mind with a relaxing break that alleviates stress. Allowing the mind to wander and daydream can trigger self-reflection, development of goals, and heightened creativity. Boredom motivates the search for novelty, improved self-control, and fulfillment. 

You can interpret your child’s boredom as an emotional signal that something in life needs adjusting. We’ve all been there when unstructured time that doesn’t involve screens results in squabbles, meltdowns, and wrestle fights. To attain household harmony, your child’s life needs a healthy balance between structured activity and idle time.

Here are a few ways to tweak the summer routine ever so slightly to allow boredom:

  • Plan together time. Sometimes “I’m bored” is really your child’s way of saying, “I need to spend more quality time with you.” Proactively schedule small chunks of together time into your day. Maybe it’s a quick post-breakfast talk and walk around the block or a half hour of board games after you finish work or Friday family movie night. A little goes a long way.
  • Set up surprises. After your child goes to bed, set out toys for your child to “discover” in the morning. There are probably many toys your child has forgotten about—be it a Lego set, MagnaTiles, paper dolls, puppets, puzzles, or craft supplies. Arrange a plastic animal scene, a stuffed animal tea party, or a blanket fort. Set out a bin of random open-ended play items like pipe cleaners, colored scarves, cookie cutters, costumes, or paper rolls for your child to find and consider. Buy supplies and invite your child to dig, plant, and decorate their own garden. Rotating your child’s environment with new playthings every few days keeps the days fresh and inspiring without requiring immediate oversight from you.
  • Make a list of boredom busters. Have your child help you brainstorm a list of what to do when the doldrums inevitably strike. Keep the list in a handy place for your child’s reference.
  • Make a snuggle up and snack spot. Create a quiet corner of the house with a beanbag chair, reading light, snacks, books, stuffed animals, and blankets. Let your child know whenever that feeling of boredom rises, this special spot is always waiting to take the mind on an adventure. You might consider using a sticker chart or punch card with a reward for 10 uses of this space as a way of incentivizing constructive use of boredom.
  • Help your child set goals. Sometimes we feel aimless when we have no hopes or dreams. Help your child pinpoint a goal to work on this summer, whether it’s achieving a new development milestone like riding a bike or tying laces, taking instrument or sports lessons, finishing a Summer Learning workbook, or learning how to draw. Setting aside time each day to work on improving a life skill can be empowering and productive.

Yes, summer boredom can be fun! If you find these steps aren’t cutting the mustard, remember you can always stop into the new Shine studio in the Hamptons for fun workshops and classes geared toward children 0-12. Contact us for schedules and details. 

Traveling for Memorial Day Weekend? Here’s What You Need To Know About Car Sickness

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Life’s a journey, not a destination — even so, we want that journey to unfold as smoothly as possible, especially when we’re planning a holiday road trip. Memorial Day weekend kicks off the start of high season for population destinations like Rehoboth Beach, Cape May, Newport, and Nantucket.

Your child might have been a road warrior as an infant, but suddenly develop car sickness. According to a large 2019 study, car sickness is rare before age one, most common between four and 13, and most severe between six and nine. While motion sickness can affect anyone at any time in life, it’s less common after puberty — and can be prevented with the right strategies in place.

Why Does Car Sickness Happen?

Car sickness occurs when the inner ear and eyes receive mixed messages about motion. Normally, when a child looks out the window, all sensory signals tell the brain, “We’re moving forward!” Yet, when children are seated low in the backseat, buried on a tablet or in a book, the inner ear will say “we’re moving,” but the eyes will conflict with the message “no, we’re sitting still!” The sensory mismatch confuses the brain, triggering symptoms ranging from yawning, fatigue, dizziness, and headache, to cold sweats, mood changes, nausea, and vomiting.

How To Prevent Car Sickness

  • Food: While it may be tempting to hit up the McDonald’s drive-thru, packing bland snacks like pretzels, dry cereal, bananas, cold lunch meats, peanut butter sandwiches, ginger biscuits, and apple slices are your best bet for travel. Sucking on ginger, peppermint, or Queasy Pops can help prevent nausea. Avoid sugary snacks and drinks.
  • Airflow: Opening the windows or pointing cool-blowing air vents your child’s way is an ideal strategy for preventing car sickness or reducing its after-effects. Have your child take deep breaths in and slow breaths out to recalibrate.
  • Focus: Encourage your child to look outside the car — through the front windshield, at the horizon, if possible. Look at a stationary object like a tree, mountain, or street sign. Be sure to remove hanging air fresheners or anything else that obstructs your child’s view. TVs mounted on the back headrests are preferable to TVs in the center of the vehicle, which blocks the view.
  • Screen Time: Even when stationary, kids can develop cybersickness from screen time. The Mayo Clinic recommends getting up and walking around every 30 minutes, though this isn’t exactly feasible on a multi-hour trip. If you can’t skip screens altogether, try to have your child spend at least 20 seconds looking away from the screen — to an object at least 20 feet away — every 20 minutes.
  • Activities: Reading and watching movies are two main culprits triggering car sickness. Of course, that’s precisely what your child will want to do on a long road trip! You might consider planning travel at a time when your child is more likely to sleep. Downloading audiobooks and family-friendly podcasts or the soundtrack to “Encanto” just might be fun enough to entertain the kids for a few hours on the road. You might play games like “I Spy,” Road Sign Bingo, 20 Questions, or “Would You Rather,” and keep track of the different brands and color vehicles you see. Gel window clings can be fun for kids to play with,
  • Medication: Dramamine or Benadryl an hour before traveling can reduce the likelihood of travel sickness, though it may also make your child feel drowsy for up to 24 hours.
  • Acupressure: More research is needed, but sea bands that apply pressure to the Pericardium 6 point can relieve nausea in some people.
  • Support: Stress, worry, and memories of past car sicknesses can make matters worse. Try to keep a light-hearted approach with a “Oops, accidents happen!” Make sure your child feels loved and understands that it’s perfectly normal.
  • Prepare: Proactively, you might bring a plastic pail with a garbage bag inside to catch any vomit or a hospital-grade barf bag. For younger children, a “vomit poncho” made from a towel, bib, or blanket might suffice.
  • Clean Up: If your child becomes sick, clean up by removing as much vomit as possible, sprinkling the area with baking soda, and vacuuming with a Shop-Vac. Apply carpet cleaner, agitate with a brush, and dry with a towel, using an enzymatic cleaner to pick up any remaining odors.
  • First Aid: If your child does become sick, it can help to stop the car, place a cool compress on your child’s head, and change position to either walk it off or lie down. Once the nausea passes, they can have small sips of cold water and a light snack.

Now you are better prepared to deal with whatever life throws you. We wish you happy travels! And if you decide to stay in the East End, stop by the Shine Studio for fun classes, workshops, and activities over the long Memorial weekend.

3 Gotta-Try Child Birthday Parties for 2022

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Okay, let’s be honest. How many dinosaur, unicorn, mermaid, safari, and super hero birthday parties have you been to? A ton, right? Every birthday party made with love is worth the effort, but you don’t have to settle for Encanto. Give guests an unforgettable Instagram-worthy experience with one of these unique child birthday ideas.

Bubbles and Brunch

“Pop on over for bubbles and brunch,” reads the invites. This simple theme is ideal for first birthdays and toddler parties. Balloon decor is always a hit, while kiddie pools filled with small clear beach balls occupy the littlest guests. Bubble wands, bubble machines, and giant bubbles add a whimsical charm to an outdoor event. Lay out omelet bites, pancake holes, grapes, and blueberries for your morning event. Mix up a sparkling punch for the kids and mimosas for the adults.

Lateovers

Move over, sleepovers. Lateovers are the newest trend—perfect for co-ed parties and kids who aren’t ready to spend a night away from home. Night time brings a whole new set of activities, including glow-in-the-dark dance parties, karaoke, musical instrument concerts, and outdoor movies with popcorn. If you’re serving up a movie, you might consider having kids arrive with sleeping bags and pajamas—though the perk here is that everyone leaves at 9:00 pm and gets their much-needed shut-eye. For a more active party, improv a kid-sized stage to see singing and dancing talents blossom. Nachos, pizza, and ice cream sundaes are low-stress snacks to serve up, along with a music instrument shaped cake.

Garden Art Party

If your child is a pint-sized Picasso, show off your family’s creative side with an art-themed outdoor garden party. Now that it’s finally warm enough to get out on the patio, you can set up tables with butcher paper and paint supplies. If paint-by-numbers aren’t your cup of tea, you can try these galaxy name paintings made with small canvases and masking tape. Decorate with whimsical woodland creatures or lumberjack prints and beautiful garden blooms. Serve up lemonade or tea alongside sandwiches cut into butterfly, mason jar, or flower shapes. Then invite kids to the cupcake decoration station where they’ll find everything from crushed Oreos, gummy worms, and sprinkles, to strawberries, whipped cream, and food-safe animal figurine toppers.

Plan Your Next Party with Shine!

Birthdays can be a lot of work when you’re juggling so much already. Shine can plan the whole party for you. We’ll bring staff, activities, supplies, and fun that matches the theme of your choice. Choose one of our classic themes or create a custom experience. Add-ons are available. Contact us to discuss how we can help create the East End event everyone will be talking about for years.

Passover and Easter Fun in New York

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This year, Passover and Easter festivities overlap with most of the fun taking place April 16th and 17th. New York State is a great place to play, whether you’re sticking close to home on the East End or taking a regional road trip for break week. If you haven’t planned anything yet, it’s not to late to hit the road for a quick family getaway.

Thousand Islands: Easter Brunch

Estimated Travel Time from the East End: 7 hours

Snag a reservation for Easter Brunch at Bonnie Castle Resort and Marina (10 am to 3 pm) or Riveredge Resort (9 am to 2 pm). Both resorts have indoor pools overlooking Alexandria Bay. Nearby Boldt Castle is not only one of New York’s most beautiful residences, but there’s also a children’s playhouse and bowling alley. Mini golf, go-karts, zoos, farms, aquariums, and drive-in theatres are among the family-friendly area attractions.

Adirondacks: Easter Weekend Retreat

Estimated Travel Time from the East End: 6 hours

Treat yourself to a relaxing holiday stay at The Sagamore Resort where you’ll be welcomed with an Easter egg hunt overlooking Lake George, a guest appearance from the Easter Bunny, a build-a-bear activity, movie nights with popcorn, and bonfires with s’mores. The onsite Rec Center will amaze the kids with everything from ping pong, indoor wiffle ball, and rock climbing, to basketball, tennis, and video games. Did we mention there’s an indoor pool? The brunch at their signature Italian restaurant, La Bella Vita, is a culinary experience the adults won’t forget.

Capital Region: Liberty Ridge Farm Easter Egg Hunt

Estimated Travel Time from the East End: 5 hours

Liberty Ridge Farm is hosting their 10th Annual Easter Eggs-perience on Saturday, April 16 from 8:30 am to 3 pm. Equidistant between Albany and Saratoga Springs, the farm offers sweeping country hillside views that make the perfect backdrop to a visit from the Easter Bunny. Kids will love the baby farm animals and pop-up play zone, while parents can shop the Market Barn & Bakery for goodies.

The Catskills: Easter Bunny Express

Estimated Travel Time from the East End: 4 hours

Tickets are still available for Adirondack Railroad’s Easter Bunny Express, which takes a 90-minute climate-controlled chug from the base of the mountains to the historic Remsen Depot for an Easter egg hunt, goodie bag, and photo shoot with the bunny of honor. Stay at the new, all-inclusive Melour Resort in the village of Tannersville near Hunter Mountain for Kosher dining and family-friendly activities.

New York City: Easter Parade

Estimated Travel Time from the East End: 2 hours

Or if you prefer to stay closer to home, there’s always the annual Easter Parade & Bonnet Festival in New York City—a tradition dating back until the 1870s. The route moves from St. Patrick’s Cathedral at 10 am on Easter Sunday, continuing down Fifth Avenue from 49th to 57th Street until 4 pm.

If you’re staying in the East End, stop by our new Shine Studio for springtime fun! We offer a variety of classes, workshops, and activities for ages 0-12.

4 Reasons to Say “Yes” To Spring Break Camp

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Kids need certain ingredients to thrive—quiet time for reading and learning; structured tasks to build esteem and learn responsibility; fun activities to make new memories; exercise to keep mind and body sharp; and alone time to develop independence. Public school break week is fast approaching: April 11th to 22nd. If you haven’t made plans yet, consider sending your kids to Spring Break Camp to keep them off the computer and thriving during their days away from school.

Benefits of Spring Break Camp

  1. It provides structure. Kids who grow up with predictable daily routines are less likely to have attention deficits, self-control challenges, and time management issues as adults, according to University at Albany psychologist Jennifer Weil Malatras. Spring break camp provides a structured routine that keeps kids engaged with learning and off screens. 
  • Make new friends. Socialization is an important aspect of child development. Laurie Kramer, professor of applied family studies at the University of Illinois, noticed that children grow up with different social competencies if they have close relationships with a sibling or peers. “Growing up just with parents is a different environment for young people,” Kramer says. She recommends that parents of only children seek ways to help their child “have social experiences with other children, whether that’s through childcare, preschool, or play dates.” Social interactions with kids the same age fosters cooperation, personality development, respect, communication competence, and problem-solving abilities. At least one study found a direct correlation between camp and improved ability to read social-emotional cues.
  • Build your child’s memory. Researchers have found that camps are educational, and not just “recreational.” One study found that children at a four-day zoo camp performed 35 to 64 percent higher on test scores about animal classification that kids who hadn’t attended the real-world experience. The findings “highlight the enriching potential of real-world programs like summer camps,” explained Layla Unger, a postdoctoral researcher at Ohio State University. “This suggests organization of knowledge doesn’t require years to happen; it can occur with a short, naturalistic learning experience.”
  • Help your child discover new hobbies and skills. It can be difficult to find a sport, activity, or hobby for your child, but camps provide exposure to a number of different opportunities to see what sticks. A spring break camp might include arts and crafts activities, nature and science, music and culinary skill building, theater and physical activity. 

American Camp Association surveys highlight the impact camp can have on how children view themselves and how they perform in school: 

“I was more confident; I wanted to know everything.” 

“I learned a lot about how to control my anger.”

“I feel like I am accomplishing something by being here.” 

 “I feel that I am better at interacting with friends and family.”

“When I’m at camp I feel that I can be more open with others and myself.”

“I learned to listen… and cooperate with people who have different opinions.”

“I can do more and be proud with myself.”

“I learned to have fun, be a leader, discipline, and most of all – respect.”

“My experience helped me look at challenging situations differently instead of giving up.” 

“At camp, I am totally at ease because of the constant fun, activities, and emphasis on self-discovery.”

Need a Little Extra Sunshine This Spring?

Come see us at the new Shine studio! We offer half-day and full-day spring break camps for children ages 3-12, as well as flexible on-demand workshops and at-home or park classes. If you have an open day, we can fill it with creative programming based on a memorable theme. Contact us at info@shinenyc.net for details.

Tips for Talking to Your Kids About the War in Ukraine

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Though America is 9,153 miles from Ukraine, it’s impossible to turn a blind eye to the tremendous suffering and spectacle of war. Even children—who we instinctively shield from harsh realities of life—are overhearing snippets of adult conversation, seeing video snippets on TikTok, taking part in fundraisers at school, and talking amongst themselves. 

Parenting is not about protecting our children from uncomfortable feelings and hardship. It’s about giving them the tools, resources, and encouragement to cope with unpleasantries with resilience. Addressing the topic may be uncomfortable, but it’s better to be proactive, open, and honest to make sure your children feel safe, empowered, and reassured with family values. 

Here are some tips to get the conversation started and some ideas on what you can say.

Conversation Starters

  • “Have you heard anything at school about Russia and Ukraine?” Asking questions can provide insight into what your child has seen or heard, so you know where to begin. Your child’s personality will factor in, as some kids are more mature, curious, or attune than others. If your child doesn’t seem interested, you don’t need to push the issue. 
  • “Do you want to talk about anything you’ve heard or seen about the conflict?” Talking is an important step in alleviating anxiety. Generally speaking, you should monitor media intake at this time and avoid leaving the TV running. There have been instances of PTSD among children who watched 9/11, the Oklahoma City bombing, or the Challenger explosion on TV. Find excuses to connect and spend time together as a family (and off devices) as much as possible. If your child is consuming a lot of media in social channels, explain the importance of vetting news sources for bias and encourage the use of news sources for kids like Newsela, Newsomatic, HuffPost Teen, or NPR.  
  • “Do you know where Russia and Ukraine are? Have you heard how people are helping?” Looking at a map or globe together can be educational. Show your child where Russia and Ukraine are in relation to America and point out countries that do not support the military action and steps they’re taking to stop the conflict. Focus on the helpers sending food and supplies or taking refugees in. 
  • “Do you have any questions for us?” Answer any questions your child has calmly and honestly, choosing the simplest answers you can. Though they may not verbalize it, children typically wonder: “Am I safe? Is our family safe? How will this affect my day-to-day life?” They may want to know if you’re worried, too – and it’s okay to say “yes” or that you don’t have all the answers about how this will end, but add that “we’ll manage it and get through this together.”
  • “What do you think about it? How does this news make you feel?” Giving children a chance to share empowers them. Providing a sounding board is reassuring that you are there to hear your child’s worries. If a worry is caused by an inaccurate belief, you’ll have a chance to correct it. Take this time to reinforce family values, expressing concern for the Ukrainian people and members of the military, as well discussing your hope for peace.
  • “What do you want to do? Who do you want to help?” Some children may respond with anger or aggression. Acknowledge those feelings, too, stating that others feel the same way, but gently remind your child anger needs to be contained in order to find logical solutions. As a family, you may explore one of the charities on the frontlines. If your children get an allowance or birthday money, be sure they contribute, so they can feel like part of the solution. After you’ve made a donation, remind your child it’s okay to go outside, play, and simply be a kid. These issues can be heavy and they shouldn’t feel guilty for enjoying their childhood.

Answers to Tough Questions

  • “Why is there a war?” Start with straightforward facts for elementary-aged children by explaining: “Russia has invaded Ukraine; our country is trying to help Ukrainians defend themselves.” Or you might explain that some people feel Ukraine should be part of Russia, but it’s not okay to take it by force.
  • “Why is Russia doing this?” It’s important to avoid demonizing an entire country or group of people. A better way to frame it to younger children is that “the leader of Russia has made a very bad decision.” Older children in 4th to 6th grades may be reading about Cold War history and the breakup of the Soviet Union, which can be a way of understanding the pretense for imperialism. 
  • “Is this World War III? Will the US get involved? Can that happen here?” You can let your child know that it’s normal to worry and validate that it is a scary situation. Explain that there are countries, organizations, and individuals helping the Ukrainians right now, and there are no signs America will go to war right now. Encourage a focus on what we know is happening now. Reassure your child that you will do all you can to keep the family safe. 

Shine Your Light

Interested in building tolerance and cultural sensitivity for the next generation? Shine is a great place to learn about other cultures and make new friends—with ongoing workshops, classes, and parties that combine art, music, culinary delights, storytelling, and movement activities for children ages 0-12. We empower kids to shine their light to make the world a better place. 

6 Ways To Celebrate Black History Month 2022 with Kids in the East End

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We’re halfway through the month, but there are still plenty of opportunities to Black History Month. Celebrated since 1976, February also marks the births of social reformer Frederick Douglass and emancipator Abraham Lincoln. The commemoration is not only recognized here, but also in Canada and the UK. Best of all, you needn’t travel far! The East End has much to offer families looking to honor the struggles and triumphs of African Americans who helped shape our nation throughout history.

Take a hike!

On Saturdays, Lone Star Lakes Park at 401 Kings Highway in Suffolk County is hosting “Celebrate Black Joy in the Outdoors,” featuring a beginner-level two-mile hike, archery, and cycling activities. Space is limited to 10 per session, so be sure to register in advance to save your spot.

If sessions book up, you might consider bundling up to check out one of these NYC parks honoring the Black experience. Connetquot River State Park Preserve in Oakdale is hosting two Black History Month events: Art by Basquiat self-portrait making (2/18) and Planet Explorers planetary activities and stargazing (2/25). Follow the link to register in advance. 

Explore a museum!

The Smithsonian African American History and Culture Museum in Washington DC are offering “Joyful Fridays,” a free virtual event geared toward ages 4-8. Each Friday, kids will learn about an important figure or topic related to Black culture through art projects and lessons. Parents are encouraged to register in advance to receive a live Zoom link for 11am-12pm and a list of supplies needed for the project. Upcoming topics include Granville T. Woods & The Roller Coaster (2/18) and Black Creativity & Abstract Art (2/25).

If you prefer the in-person museum experience, the African American Museum of Nassau County in Hempstead displays themed exhibits highlighting historical figures, events, music, and art around the world. Currently, they’re showcasing “The Women of NASA” and “The Black Royals.”

Visit a library!

Check your local library’s calendar for Black History Month themed events or try one of these:

These events are free, but advance registration is required.

Grab a bite!

Local Black-owned food businesses will satisfy every craving. Sample six generations of Southern BBQ in Freeport at Bobby Q’s, with cheeseburger sliders for the kids. Follow it up with delectable desserts from The Sweet Love Company on Long Island.

Jazz it up!

The John and Alice Coltrane Home in Dix Hills invites jazz fans to a world of memorabilia, exhibits, and meditation spaces. Kids 5+ can learn about music improv by attending one of the family workshops. Call or email to inquire about upcoming tours and events.

Get pampered!

The Black-owned Dera Ebele’s Nail Boutique offers a bounty of mani/pedi/facial treatments for adults, as well as “Little Empress” manicures and pedicures specifically for kids. The velvet thrones, gold mirrors, and chandeliers create a posh atmosphere fit for royalty.

If you’d like to partake in more cultural activities, come visit the new Shine studio, where we embrace every color, culture, and creed, celebrating the beauty of our diversity through song, dance, art, storytelling, and culinary delights.

5 Perfect Breakfasts for Your Little Valentines

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Anyone who’s cooked a meal for the family knows it’s a labor of love. From cutting the crust off the bread of a finnicky toddler, to arranging the chocolate chips in the pancake into a smiley face, we are more than accommodating. 

Sometimes the joy is in sharing our grandmother’s special recipe, introducing the kids to an exotic flavor for the first time, or simply taking pleasure in filling their bellies with healthy foods and watching them gain sustenance and take form before our eyes. 

Children may seem like little butterflies, flitting from one amusement to the next all day long, but they’re soaking it all up – the aromas emanating from the kitchen, the heat from the bustling stove, the sound of you singing as you’re making, the funny ideas their imaginations concoct as they gaze upon their plates. 

Planning a few meaningful moments with food can have sticking power. Your kids may forget much of their childhood, but they’ll remember that you took the time to care; and when they find themselves suddenly whipping up heart-shaped eggs for their own children come Valentine’s Day, they’ll smile and think of you. If you’re still looking for that special Valentine’s Day breakfast idea, we hope you find inspiration here. 

Heart-Shaped Donuts (Sally’s Baking Addiction)

There’s much to love about this donut recipe. You’ll need buttermilk, heavy whipping cream, nutmeg, food coloring, and sprinkles – a few items you might not always have on hand – and, ideally, a heart-shaped donut pan. The dough is cakey and the frosting thick. Be sure to read the comments section for extra tips to prevent sticking and get that perfect color/ consistency.  

Sunny Side Up Egg-Heart Toasts (Chef De Home)

Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to create a nest for the egg within the toast. You can use white or sourdough and strawberry jam or Nutella, depending on your kids’ preferences. Hershey Kisses make a nice plate garnish! If your kid only eats a scramble, consider topping with a heart-shaped tomato. These heart-shaped omelet muffins are quick and easy to make-ahead as well. 

Red Velvet Pancakes (Something Swanky)

It’s hard choosing a favorite pancake. Ultimately, red velvet cake mix and cream cheese wins, adding an unexpected twist to a traditional pancake breakfast equally suited for kids and parents alike – no artificial dye necessary! Garnish with strawberries and sprinkles. We also loved these caterpillar pancakes for tiny tots and the Emoji pancakes for slightly older kids. 

Conversation Heart Toasts (Hungry Happenings)

All you need is bread, jam, milk, food coloring, and food-safe paintbrushes to create a slice of fun. Toast the bread to perfection in a toaster, oven, or toaster oven and serve with real candy hearts for a whimsical twist. You can use a stamper if your freehand paint-writing isn’t the hottest.

Valentine Charcuterie (A Momina Moment)

If you want an over-the-top spread, consider putting together a trendy charcuterie board. (The heart-shaped waffle maker is clutch, but you can also cut your waffles into shapes using a pair of kitchen shears.) Follow this easy recipe for chocolate-dipped strawberries. Swap the sugar cookies out for heart-shaped bacon if you need a little more savory to offset the sweet.  

Hungry for More?

Does your child take an interest in cooking? Come and explore with Shine’s “Cooking Stars” class (ages 3-5, 6-7, 8-10). We combine food art, science, literature, and hands-on culinary experiences to enrich your child’s life.

National Puzzle Day Reminds Us to Make Time for Play

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January 29th was National Puzzle Day – a reminder to stop and enjoy brain teasers of all sizes, shapes, and forms. From Crosswords and Sudokus to Jigsaws and Tetris, puzzles encourage the brain to think in different ways that can foster growth and development – especially in young minds. Researchers have discovered that certain types of puzzles accelerate growth in spatial abilities, math, science, and focus. Consider adding some of these fun games into your weekly routine to grow your children’s brains and set them up for success.  

Jigsaw Puzzles

Children who play puzzles between ages 2 and 4 develop better spatial skills by 4.5, according to University of Chicago researchers. The ability to mentally transform shapes lays the groundwork for excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The study findings were consistent across all income and education levels and unaffected by the amount of parental input. Other research found that children as young as 3 use trial-and-error, while 4-year-olds are able to use clues from the picture to solve jigsaw puzzles.

Q-Bitz

Rhodes College psychologists studied how spatial puzzle play could boost academic performance. When kids practice puzzles that help them reason about space, they are learning life skills – how to navigate a busy street, how to assemble a piece of furniture, or how to best load the dishwasher. Children ages 4-7 who engaged in this type of high-level thinking — by playing with puzzles, blocks, and board games — six or more times per week had higher WPPSI block design scores, which is used as a measure of general intelligence. Other types of play studied included teaching shapes, number skills, playing math games, musical instruments, riding bikes and scooters, and telling stories; none of these activities were associated with improvements in spatial ability. If you’re looking for a fun game that mimics the WPPSI block design test, try Q-Bitz, which challenges memory, visual agility, pattern identification, and hand-eye coordination in children ages 4-8.

Tower of Hanoi

Four to six-year-olds who complete puzzles on tablets are able to transfer these skills to similar physical puzzles, says Joanne Tarasuik, of the Swinburne University of Technology in Australia. The study used the “Tower of Hanoi” disc-stacking puzzle invented by French mathematician Édouard Lucas in 1883. Scientists use this game to assess frontal lobe deficits, while teachers introduce the game in basic programming studies. Children were able to improve their speed with the physical puzzle after practicing online.

Cut the Rope

Researchers from Nanyang Technology University in Singapore found that adults who played the kid-friendly physics-based puzzle computer game “Cut the Rope” for an hour a day had “significant improvement” in their executive functions. After 20 hours of complex puzzle play, players were able to switch tasks 33% faster, adapt to new situations 30% faster, and block out distractions 60% better. Other study participants played non-puzzle games like Fruit Ninja (arcade), Modern Combat (first person shooter), and StarFront Collision (real-time strategy), but showed no improvement in executive function. 

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