Category: Family & Parenting

Let’s get real for a moment. Raising a teenager has been the most difficult and unpleasant season of motherhood I’ve experienced yet. The days are filled with fluctuating moods, rejection, criticism, judgement, and quite honestly, a lot of grief, loneliness, and doubt. As my son grows up he is doing what he needs to while I am left questioning so much of what I am doing as a parent. 

I admit that I can succumb to moments of envy when I perceive other teens not being annoyed at everything their mom is doing. I’m downright jealous when I see pictures of other kids happily spending time with their parents. But perception is just that. I’m looking at brief snapshots of other people that don’t tell the whole story but rather a quick flash in a series of many moments within a family.

Other people’s teens seem to enjoy being with them

Maybe the lovely teen girl I see in another mom’s glowing prom photo just cursed her parents out. Maybe another mom left out all the details about passive aggressiveness and mood swings when she posted about a fun family vacation. Maybe there are deeper problems like drug use and depression camouflaged by the matching Christmas jammies on the holiday card. Maybe resentment and uncertainty wears the guise of smiling selfies and sunny filters.

I know I should feel nothing but gratitude that my son is growing up in such a “textbook” teen way as he becomes independent. I’m blessed that, so far, snarky attitudes and moodiness are our biggest issues and not more serious things. Still, the rejection and very harsh ripping away can sting so deeply it actually feels like my heart is breaking.

I try to maintain family traditions

So, I try to maintain traditions and uphold holidays. I enthusiastically plan outings and ready my phone for the very moments I am trying so hard to hang onto in light of my son’s angsty preparation to leave the nest. And when we’re in the midst of these experiences, my fingers are prepared and eager to capture these moments with the camera. 

Unfortunately, instead of Instagram-worthy family snapshots of fun and bonding, the photos wind up reflecting exactly what I’m trying not to capture – two tired parents trying to hang onto a teenager that has one foot and most of his mind already out the door of our family home.

Our eager arms trying to embrace a son who is thinking of being anywhere else. Strain and quiet animosity on our faces mixed in with half-smiles that don’t do a very good job of concealing how we all feel about this phase of life. And instead of being excited about preserving my memories with photos, I just feel frustrated and sad while I press the delete button. 

As I try to find a great picture of us, I pause before deleting the outtakes

After a recent trip to New York City, my fingers were poised to do the same for all the outtakes and images that wouldn’t make the cut – the annoyed faces, the awkward physical distance between our son and us, and the frustratingly-forced strange looking smile he will sometimes throw our way. That’s when I stumbled on this blurry outtake, and I paused before hitting delete.

In the middle of trying to get a nice family shot in front of Rockefeller Center and failing so miserably, all three of us started laughing and being silly. The camera kept capturing these moments before we eventually went back to trying for a posed photo, and then on with our travels.

Even though this attempt at a family selfie is blurry, crooked, and somehow comically stretches out my husband’s head, it captures a moment in time when we were all authentically having fun and making each other laugh. I want to keep it to remind myself that those moments still occur and occur often, perhaps more than I realize when I’m too busy focusing on the times my son is annoyed at me or when he’s opting for hours in his closed room away from us. I love this imperfect blurry photo and will use it to remind myself that I have these flashes of pure happiness and enjoyment with my teen too, even if they are interspersed with moodiness and are not always “picture perfect.” 

I keep a blurry that is “perfect picture” because it shows us in a happy moment

What is picture perfect anyway? We are all moving through time so fast – some moments are ugly and triggering, some are mediocre and dull. And some are brilliant and precious, if only fleeting and ones we wish to hang onto longer, but cannot. I don’t want to look back on this season of motherhood with nothing but memories of worry, doubt, and general discomfort. 

I want to remember these images and moments in time when I am throwing my head back and grinning and enjoying my family. Because those moments have always been there too. Maybe we have to take what we can get in this season of parenthood. Maybe unbridled joy and laughter is only going to show up in mere minutes or even seconds, and maybe that has to be enough.

Parenthood is a giant tapestry of the good and bad, the joyous and the heart-wrenching, the exhilarating and the painful, all strung together in a patchwork that we should be proud to hang and display no matter the imperfect stitches and lines. Because, like all precious art, when you finally take a moment to step back and look at the entire thing, it is the honesty and rawness that makes it so beautiful, and truly something sacred enough to behold with true awe. 

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Last weekend I found myself thinking about all the ways Taylor Swift is a positive role model during the three and a half hours that my 18-year-old daughter, Sophia, and I stood in Gillette Stadium watching her exhilarating show. Swift’s favorite person is her mom, so there’s that. But at nearly every turn since her 2006 eponymous debut album, Taylor Swift has inspired us to love loudly and let the haters hate. She’s taught us that hard work pays off, that fighting for your worth is always a good idea, and that being generous with the less fortunate is important. 

Allow me to pile on with what I saw as 13 life lessons you can learn by watching her show. (Don’t worry; I wasn’t lecturing my daughter all evening. I just hoped Sophia absorbed these things as I handed her tissues.)

To Taylor Swift’s parents, Scott and Andrea, allow me to say, excellent job! If you wrote a parenting book, I’d buy it. 

13 life lessons you can learn by watching Taylor Swift’s show

1. Fandom is one of life’s greatest pleasures

Whether it’s a shared passion for a musician, sports team, movie franchise, or anything else, the communal experience of anticipating, showing up, caring profoundly, and singing, cheering (and crying) together is a catharsis that is hard to match. If there’s a downside to millions of people sharing a love for something positive, I can’t think of one. 

2. Where your eyes go, your energy goes

A massive video screen opposite the stage projected a close-up of Swift’s face for the entirety of the 44-song setlist. I remarked to Sophia: “Seeing your huge self reflected at you the whole night had to be distracting.” My daughter responded, “Yeah, but I didn’t see her look at it ever.”

Yoga teachers will suggest that you rest your gaze not on the ground but at a spot eye level in front of you during a standing balance pose because “where your eyes go, your body goes too.” Swift kept her eyes on the people in front of her, to the sides of her, in the highest of the rafter seats. That’s where she sent her energy; that’s where her energy landed.

3. How you introduce somebody says as much about you as it does about them

It was hard not to notice and be impressed by the thought, admiration, and conscious elocution (a mom word, I know) with which Swift introduced her new, USC-trained pianist, Karina DePiano, and her opening acts Gayle and Phoebe Bridgers (the “ers” plain as day).  She took that care because she wanted people to hear and remember the names of those she admired. It’s a detail that reveals manners, humility, and grace. 

4. Gratitude is the best way to live your life

If she said it once, she said it a dozen times:

Guys, don’t think for one second I think this is normal. To be playing in stadiums, to have so many people appreciate the songs I write. This is absolutely insane and I am grateful every single show.

taylor swift

5. Managers delegate; artists micromanage 

During the countdown to showtime, fans could watch a behind-the-scenes video of Swift working with Laura Dern on set for the “Bejeweled” shoot.

In it, Swift is on a bent knee holding an iPad-like director’s apparatus. She hops into a director’s chair, suggests a subtle turn of Dern’s hand, and asks for a pause in the line delivery. She is clearly in charge of the creative execution of this video.

“She was wonderful, sending mood boards all along the way,” Dern says in a voiceover. It reminded me of this quote from Jerry Seinfeld: “The right way is the hard way,” the comedian said in an interview. “The show was successful because I micromanaged it — every word, every line, every take, every edit, every casting.” No detail is too small. The prep makes the perfection.

6. Karma isn’t a bitch if you aren’t one 

Swift shared with her fans that she’s never felt this happy in all aspects of her life as she feels now. Longtime fans have remarked on her truly joyful vibe at show after show. Taylor is a lifter-up of people who don’t hide how much she loves writing songs, telling stories, and performing for audiences. Good things have come to her. 

7. Hold out for the life you want

Swift doesn’t talk about her relationships; she lets the songs reveal feelings, details, conversations, and scenes that may have happened to her (or to a character she’s invented — she’ll never tell). Thirteen songs into her 13th show at Gillette Stadium in 13 years, Swift performed “Champagne Problems” at the piano.

This song from her latest “Midnights” album tells the story of a man who proposes to his girl (mom’s ring in his pocket, dom perignon chilling). He’s left speechless; she can’t give a reason, she never was ready, his heart was glass, and she dropped it. (see #8 below….)

8. Let meaningful moments linger

When the song ended, Swift sat at her piano for 5 minutes. She removed earpieces and looked at what was organically happening in the stadium, eyes sparkling in the twinkling lights as she smiled and soaked it in. I turned to that jumbo close-up screen at the other end of the bowl, and I saw the puddles in her eyes. Her fans reflected everything — painful choices, choosing the life you want — right back to her. The cross-current of gratitude said everything about everything without saying a word.

9. Know your work backward and forwards

The night before ours was a “rain show,” where Swift and her team played their 3-and-a-half-hour set in the unrelenting pouring rain. Under the stage, it looked like a water park last night, she remarked. Everything was cleaned up perfectly for our show, but no one told her piano, which started playing notes Swift was not hitting as she sat down to play “Red.” The keyboard was on the fritz, so she called an audible, picked up her guitar, and played the song acoustically. (See #10 below)

10. Take the moment you need, even when everyone is watching

Slightly rattled at the change of plans, Swift seemingly couldn’t immediately remember the key for the guitar chords. She strummed once, strummed twice, then said, “Hold on.” I watched her eyes head skyward for two quick beats as she tuned out where she was, the fans waiting. She found what I can only assume is E Major and played as if that was the plan. 

11. Give the cheap seats a special moment

Fans who bought the “partially obstructed view” seats to the side (and slightly behind) the stage are rewarded each show by seeing behind-the-scenes moments and more Taylor. On our night, they wisely stuck around, and after her final bow, she jogged down the ramp as the house lights clicked on. Still in her hand-beaded Oscar de la Renta Midnight’s body suit, Swift threw her arms around her dad as if she’d just won the lottery, then waved at her fans with a smile that launched a thousand screams. 

12. Parking struggles are real 

So many fans come to Swift’s sold-out shows that even the plazas and parking lots fill thousands of fans who stand outside and sing along. We’d heard about the hours-long delays finding Ubers and getting out of the concert lots, so we made a plan.

In some stadiums, the last car in can be the first one out. Because we were driving to Boston from New Jersey, we’d arrive on the late side anyway so that we wouldn’t sweat it. We would take one of those spots you see right when you first turn it in. It turns out in the free-parking field we chose in front of Foxborough, the last one in is the last one out. We didn’t move for hours. (See final lesson below). 

13. Sometimes, the best idea is to turn off the engine and take a nap

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“You’re Going to Miss This” and 17 Other Great Grad Songs

When we think of things around us, we often categorize them as either living or non-living. But did you know that there are some non-living things examples that can still surprise us with their unique properties and characteristics? Here are 5 examples of non-living things that you may not have known existed.

1. Self-Healing Concrete

Self-healing concrete is a type of concrete that has the ability to repair cracks on its own. This is achieved through the use of special bacteria or capsules containing healing agents that are embedded in the concrete.

When a crack forms, the bacteria or healing agents are activated and fill the crack, effectively repairing it. This technology has the potential to greatly increase the lifespan and durability of concrete structures.

2. Shape-Memory Alloys

Shape-memory alloys are a type of metal that can “remember” their original shape and return to it when heated. This is due to the unique crystal structure of the metal, which allows it to undergo a reversible phase transformation.

Shape-memory alloys have a wide range of applications, from medical devices to aerospace engineering. For example, they can be used in stents that are inserted into blood vessels, as the stent can be compressed for insertion and then expand back to its original shape once in place.

3. Hydrophobic Coatings – Non-Living Things Examples

Hydrophobic coatings are a type of non-living material that repels water. These coatings are made up of tiny particles that create a rough surface, causing water droplets to bead up and roll off.

They have a wide range of applications, from self-cleaning windows to waterproof clothing. In the automotive industry, hydrophobic coatings are used to protect car paint from water damage and corrosion. They can also be used on electronic devices to prevent water damage.

4. Biodegradable Plastics

Biodegradable plastics are a type of non-living material that can break down naturally in the environment. Unlike traditional plastics, which can take hundreds of years to decompose, biodegradable plastics can break down in a matter of months or years.

They are made from renewable resources like corn starch, potato starch, and sugarcane, and can be used in a variety of applications, from packaging to disposable utensils. However, it’s important to note that not all biodegradable plastics are created equal and some may still have negative environmental impacts if not disposed of properly.

5. Smart fabrics – Non-Living Things Examples

Smart fabrics are a type of non-living material that can sense and respond to changes in their environment. They are made by embedding electronic components like sensors, microchips, and conductive fibers into textiles.

Smart fabrics can be used in a variety of applications, from clothing that monitors vital signs to curtains that adjust to the amount of sunlight in a room. They have the potential to revolutionize industries like healthcare, sports, and fashion.

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Memorial Day marks the beginning of summer, but for the parents of soon-to-be college students, we’re already thinking about getting them to the dorm room — and all the things they’ll need. Dorm supplies can be expensive, but luckily there are a few way to save on these essentials, including shopping Memorial Day sales.

You can find great savings on bedding, bath, and storage for college with incredible Memorial Day sales at retailers like Amazon, The Container Store, Dormify, Target, Pottery Barn Teen and more! It’s a great way to save on some dorm essentials and to get some of your shopping done early. Below, you’ll find our picks for the best deals right now.

The Best Memorial Day Sales

Bedding is one of the first few things you’ll need to tick off your list as you’ll need to get Twin XL sheets to fit the dorm bed. This highly rated comfortable and sheet set is an incredible bundle and it’s currently 20% off. There are plenty of colors to choose from and reviewers like how soft the microfiber blend and that the comforter doesn’t get too hot. At just $50, it’s good to try for their first year at school.

Dorm rooms do get messy but there isn’t enough space to fit an entire vacuum. This handheld vacuum from Dirt Devil is easy to store and it has excellent suction and a large dirt bin so they aren’t constantly emptying it. They’ll be happy to have it when they spill Cheetos all over their floor late at night. It has a few attachments, too, including a crevice tool, dusting brush, and an upholstery hose. Right now, you can save $5 on it!

Sometimes the hardest part of adjusting to college is getting used to sleeping on an old, hard mattress. This cushiony mattress topper from Lucid can help that transition be a little easier with 3 inches of CertiPur-US memory foam. It’s currently 15% off, making it a great time to buy. It arrives rolled off and all you’ll need to do is unfurl it upon arrival to the dorm to give it some time to air out.

You also might want to get your student some new towels for college — and these ones from Pottery Barn Teen are on sale! Made from super soft and absorbent Turkish cotton, you can get them discounted in four different colors. Face clothes and hand towels in this collection are on sale as well, if you want to get them a full towel set.

The Container Store is currently offering 30% off its entire site as part of its Memorial Day sale, which is perfect for saving on all your college storage needs. This three chest drawer is a great choice for storing extra clothing and supplies in your child’s dorm room. It’s very affordable, especially with the sale, so it won’t be the end of the world if it’s trashed by the end of the year.

Memorial Day Bedding Sales

Memorial Day Storage Sales

Other Great Memorial Day Sales

Prices were accurate at time of publishing.

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Apartment Checklist: 40 Things to Make Your Apartment Feel Like Home

Moving into your first college apartment is such an exciting time. Especially after living in a dorm, the apartment gives you so much more space and the convenience of a kitchen. If you are moving into a new apartment, there are many things you will need that you might not typically think of. Also, if you are living with a group of people, it can be a good idea to agree on who is bringing which items so there are no duplicates and to split up the costs.

In addition to this checklist of essentials, you will probably be required to get renter’s insurance, and Lemonade is easy to use.

Note: We are a reader-supported site and receive compensation from purchases made through some of the links in this post.  

First apartment essentials

Kitchen essentials

1. Keurig coffee maker (Target)

If you are a coffee lover, you want to buy a coffee maker. In my freshman year, I got all of my coffee from the dining hall, but after freshman year, I used the same coffee maker for the next three years of college. You won’t have to go to the coffee shop if you have a coffee craving, saving you time and money. Keurig makes one that is very narrow and is available in six great colors. Don’t forget to bring some cute mugs along, too. 

2. Dishes (Target)

You will need to buy dishes for your first college apartment. I recommend unbreakable ones if you live with a group of people and don’t want to worry about anything too fragile. This set of 12 plates and bowls is microwavable and dishwasher-safe.

BTW, you might even want to buy a few extra bowls as you will eat and heat more things in a bowl than you can imagine. 

3. Stainless steel cookware set (Target)

Pots and pans are necessary for preparing meals now that you will no longer eat at the dining hall. How will you make mac and cheese, pasta, or your favorite omelet without pots and pans? This 5-piece stainless steel cookware set is very well priced and is on the Consumer Reports list of recommended cookware.

4. Amazon Basics flatware (Amazon)

Flatware is another kitchen essential for a college apartment. You will need flatware for almost every meal and can reuse it for years. If you are getting a small set for four people, pick up extra spoons, as I run out of clean spoons more than other utensils. 

5. Brita water pitcher (Amazon)

A Brita water filter is essential to avoid buying bottled water. When I first moved into my apartment, I tried using jugs of water, but a Brita is much more convenient and better for the environment. This one is a slim model and is only 4 inches wide.

6. Hamilton Beach toaster oven (Amazon)

Using a toaster oven is sometimes more convenient than a larger oven if just heating something small. This is the top budget-pick toaster oven that won’t take up too much room when countertop space is at a premium.

7. Gadgets and basic supplies

Outfitting your kitchen with essential gadgets will make a big difference when cooking. Oven mitts, dish towels, a can opener, a spatula, corkscrew, aluminum foil, plastic wrap, wax paper, and spices (especially salt and pepper).

8. Cleaning supplies

Cleaning supplies are always handy to have! Especially if you are living with others, having cleaning supplies in the kitchen is so helpful so people can clean up after themselves. You want to include paper towels, garbage bags, a mop, a broom, an all-purpose cleaner, Lysol wipes, sponges, hand soap, and dish soap. 

Living Room essentials 

9. TLC television (Amazon)

Having a TV makes living in an apartment more cohesive. My housemates and I tried to do a movie night at least once a month where everyone was there and with lots of snacks. This TLC TV gets excellent reviews, especially for the price.

10. Serta couch (Amazon)

You don’t need a super expensive couch for your apartment, just something comfortable and seats multiple people. You can also find cheap sofas if your college has a Facebook Free and For Sale page. 

11. Coffee table (Amazon)

A coffee table is a convenient place to serve snacks while watching TV, bringing the living room together. 

12. Rug (Pottery Barn)

Area rugs are an easy way to add color to the living room and can often brighten the room. Most apartments are painted in neutral colors, so find a rug in colors you like. Washable ones can be a smart pick if small enough to fit in a washing machine.

13. Floor lamp (Target)

Having extra lighting is very useful for the living room. If there is no window nearby, a floor lamp is a great alternative to brighten the room. 

14. Black & Decker vacuum (Amazon)

A vacuum cleaner can be handy for cleaning up dirt, food crumbs, and dust in your apartment. Especially if you live with other people, apartments tend to get dirty much faster than expected, so having a vacuum cleaner is essential. This one gets great reviews.

Bedroom Must-haves 

15. Mattress and bed frame (Amazon)

A bed frame and mattress are essential for your apartment! The good news is that you will probably reuse these for the next three years. Zinus has well-priced and top-rated mattresses shipped in a box right to the apartment. Their bed frames work well, too.

16. Bedding (Pottery Barn)

Bedding is a great way to brighten up your bedroom. You can choose your favorite colors or a great pattern and add accent pillows. If you have room for a queen-size bed in your apartment, the linens you get for your new home can last you for many years — unlike the Twin XL you might have bought for the freshman dorm. 

This bedding is 100% cotton, available in several colors, and washable.

17. Vera Wang blanket (Amazon)

Depending on your climate, you might need an extra blanket for your bed. I love these 100% cotton waffle weave blankets from Vera Wang.

18. Desk (Pottery Barn)

You want to have a desk in your bedroom for studying. I also used my desk for eating meals if I didn’t feel like eating in the kitchen. This one is a collaboration with West Elm and is available in three finishes.

19. Desk lamp (The Container Store)

Extra lighting is often needed in college apartment bedrooms, and a task lamp helps read textbooks while studying at your desk. This slim, energy-efficient charging lamp is ideal for a desk or bedside table. It even includes three brightness settings. Don’t forget extra light bulbs.

20. Hon desk chair (Amazon)

Having a comfortable desk chair is so important. Especially if you plan to study at a desk, you want to feel snug. 

21. Drying rack (The Container Store)

A drying rack is an excellent idea if you don’t like putting delicate clothes in the dryer. I used my drying rack every time I did laundry, and it was particularly significant for leggings and sweaters that might get messed up in the dryer. This drying rack collapses flat when not in use. The thick aluminum rods give 18 feet of drying space and include six soft-touch garment clips to secure small items and delicates.

22. Nightstand (Pottery Barn)

A nightstand is convenient for keeping things besides your bed within arm’s reach. I usually kept a water bottle, lotion, chapstick, and tissues on my nightstand. This is also part of the collaboration with West Elm.

23. Umbra mini trash can (Amazon)

A mini trash can in a bedroom is nice because it lets you throw out more minor things without leaving your room. 

24. Full-length mirror (Amazon)

You want a full-length mirror in your bedroom to see your entire outfit. 

25. Hangers (Amazon)

You will need hangers for your closet! I ended up hanging up most of my clothes in my apartment because there was not enough space for a full dresser. 

26. Storage ottoman (The Container Store)

Storage ottomans are super convenient for storing smaller items. This one can also be used as a lovely stool. 

27. Under-bed storage

Under-bed storage helps organize things in a college apartment. Under my bed, I stored many items that were not used daily, such as a hairdryer, medicines, or extra sheets and towels. 

28. Tapestries (Pottery Barn)

Tapestries are an easy way to decorate a wall in your bedroom. Pottery Barn has some of the cutest tapestries with some super unique designs. 

29. String lights (Pottery Barn)

Another way to add personality to your room is to have decorative lights. String lights are great for movie nights or late-night studying. 

30. Belkin power strip

Many college apartments don’t have many outlets, so extension cords or power strips are crucial. A power strip with space for both plugs and USB ports is convenient for charging your phone and computer in bed or at your desk. 

Bathroom Essentials

31. Over-the-door hooks (Amazon)

There might be wall hooks in your bathroom, but there are never enough, especially if you share with a roommate. Over-the-door curves are perfect for hanging up towels or robes after showering.

32. Eagle Creek toiletries bag (Amazon)

You might have enough room for basic toiletries in a cabinet or under the sink if you have a bathroom. Having enough counter space for your toothbrush holder and toothpaste is optimal, but if not, you may have to use a shower caddy or toiletries bag to store things in your bedroom instead of the bathroom.   

33. Shower curtain (Amazon)

Make sure to buy shower curtains for your bathroom. I forgot to buy this before moving in and had to buy it after arriving at the apartment.  

34. Simplehuman wastebasket (Amazon)

Having a small trash can in your bathroom is necessary. The simplehuman trashcans are my favorite.

35. Towels (Target)

Several bath towels and hand towels are handy because you can alternate without doing laundry. You’ll need to have a bath mat in the bathroom, too. These Room Essentials towels from Target are well-priced and come in five pretty colors.

36. Toilet paper holder (Amazon)

Many older apartments do not have a toilet paper dispenser attached to the wall. If so, many toilet paper holders are available on Amazon. 

37. Laundry hamper (Amazon)

It’s so nice to have room in the bathroom for a laundry bag or hamper for dirty clothes. Otherwise, you will have to find a spot in your bedroom. 

38. First aid supplies

Having a first aid kit with disinfectant, bandaids, and other basic first aid supplies is a good idea.  

Other Essentials

39. Cartman toolkit (Amazon)

A toolkit with a hammer, screwdriver, and nails for hanging pictures will be handy. This one has 39 pieces, so it will cover almost all basic repairs and assembly projects.

40. Maglite flashlight and extra batteries (Amazon)

While you can use your phone as a flashlight, you will want to have a real flashlight with extra batteries in case of an actual emergency.

Living in an apartment will be a fun experience, and moving is much easier if you have a list of items you need. These are some of the main essentials needed when living in your place for the first time. Good luck with moving!

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It’s no secret that kids grow up fast, and before you know it, your baby girl will be a teen, asking if she can wear makeup to school and if they can start a skincare routine. Many girls become interested in teen beauty products around middle school or high school —especially if their peers start using them — and it’s your job to find the best products to help your daughter safely experiment and discover her personal style. 

The good news is that there’s no shortage of excellent teen beauty products today. From moisturizers and cleansers to foundation and lip gloss, a wide range of cosmetics and personal care products are safe (and fun!) for teens to use. 

To help you with your shopping, we’ve rounded up 20 expert-approved teen beauty products that thousands of users have loved — some I’ve even been using since I was a teen! 

Note: We are a reader-supported site and receive compensation from purchases made through some of the links in this post.

The Top 5 Teen Beauty Products

1. Best Moisturizer: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream – $17.78 at Amazon
2. Best Acne Cleanser: Neutrogena Oil-Free Pink Grapefruit Acne Wash – $8.49 at Amazon
3. Best Mascara: Petite ‘n Pretty Fully Feathered Volumizing Mascara – $18 at Amazon
4. Best Nail Polish: Olive and June – $8.99 at Target
5. Best Daily Sunscreen: Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen – $38 at Amazon

Reviews of The Best Teen Beauty Products

1. Best Moisturizer: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

It’s never too early to teach your daughter good skincare habits; an excellent moisturizer is a must-have for her daily routine. This moisturizing cream from CeraVe is a cult-favorite teen beauty product with more than 100,000 reviews on Amazon, and it’s wildly recommended by dermatologists, according to the brand. The velvety cream will help keep your daughter’s skin hydrated — even if she’s playing around with new makeup during the day —and won’t clog her pores. 

2. Best Acne Cleanser: Neutrogena Oil-Free Pink Grapefruit Acne Wash

According to WebMD, most teen girls struggle with acne at some point, and this face wash from Neutrogena is a great option to help keep your daughter’s skin clean and blemish-free. It uses salicylic acid to treat and prevent breakouts, and it cleanses deep down into pores to remove oil. Plus, the formula won’t dry or irritate her skin, and it has a pleasant scent, meaning she can use it as part of her daily routine. 

3. Best Mascara: Petite ‘n Pretty Fully Feathered Volumizing Mascara

The Petite ‘n Pretty Volumizing Mascara is designed with teens in mind. It has a smaller applicator perfect for tinier, young eyes, and the formula is free of phthalates, parabens, and other potentially harmful products. Despite being a clean mascara, this teen beauty product will still provide the volume and thickness your daughter is looking for, and some adults, including actress Kate Hudson, use it!

4. Best Nail Polish: Olive and June Nail Polish

If your daughter likes to paint her nails fun colors, Olive and June nail polish is the perfect option. This online brand offers a wide range of trendy polish colors and is cruelty-free and vegan without harmful chemicals. It’s cheaper than many other popular brands. Plus, many of their formulas are quick-drying, perfect for teens who don’t always have the patience to wait several minutes for their nails to dry completely.

5. Best Daily Sunscreen: Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen

Wearing sunscreen daily is a great habit for teens to get into early, and the Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen is one of the most popular options for everyday wear. It is somewhat pricey, but the lightweight formula offers SPF 40 protection. It doubles as a primer for makeup, and it even helps to block blue light from electronic devices — which your teen is probably exposed to often. 

6. Best Pimple Patches: Mighty Patch Original

Every teen needs a stash of pimple patches for unexpected blemishes, and the Mighty Patch Original is arguably the most popular product today. These patches use medical-grade hydrocolloids to pull gunk out of pimples, making them smaller and flatter after six to eight hours. They’re perfect for overnight wear and keep your daughter from picking at her acne, which can cause scabbing and scarring. 

7. Best Lip Gloss: Nyx Butter Gloss

If your daughter wants to add a little color to her lips, Nyx Butter Gloss is a good introductory teen makeup product. This inexpensive lip gloss comes in dozens of colors to match her complexion and style and offers sheer to medium coverage. The formula is never sticky, making it comfortable to wear, and it’s easy to wipe off at the end of the day, unlike lip stains or liquid lipsticks. 

8. Best Concealer: e.l.f. Hydrating Camo Concealer

The e.l.f. Hydrating Camo Concealer is perfect for covering up acne or under-eye circles, and the affordable, easy-to-use formula makes it a great choice for teens. The concealer is available in a wide range of colors to match all skin tones, and it provides all-day wear that won’t crease. Plus, the formula is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores, so it’s also suitable for acne-prone skin. 

9. Best Hair Dryer Brush: Revlon One-Step Volumizer Hair Dryer

While your teen might be coveting the Dyson Airwrap, the Revlon One-Step Volumizer is a much more budget-friendly option that still leaves her hair flawless. This widely popular tool can dry and style hair in just one step, helping to reduce frizz and leave hair sleek and shiny. It’s sure to help streamline your daughter’s morning beauty routine — and because it dries so fast, she won’t be late for school either.

10. Best Eyeshadow Palette: Colourpop Gone Matte Pressed Powder Palette

Colourpop eyeshadow palettes are an unbeatable value—they contain pigmented colors that go on smoothly and blend out flawlessly, yet they’re still reasonably priced. If your daughter wants a versatile collection of eyeshadows, the fan-favorite Gone Matte Pressed Powder Palette contains 30 shades, including nice neutrals, peaches, pinks, mauves, and grays. There are matte and metallic options for her to experiment with, and she’ll be able to put together subtle and dramatic eye looks with just one palette. 

11. Best Face Mask: Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay 

Actress Lili Reinhart, who stars in Riverdale, swears by this face mask to help with her cystic acne. The Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay is made using natural calcium bentonite clay, and when it’s mixed with water (or apple cider vinegar!), it creates a smooth mask that will deep clean pores in just a few minutes. Just be sure your teen knows not to leave the mask on for too long. Otherwise, it may cause skin redness or irritation. 

12. Best Foundation: Maybelline Dream Fresh Skin Hydrating BB Cream 

Full-coverage foundations can be tricky to work with, often looking cakey or dry, so you may want to start your teenager off with a smoother product like this Maybelline BB cream. The lightweight, hydrating moisturizer is slightly tinted, helping to smooth out skin and hide imperfections, and it comes in a range of colors to match most skin tones. It even has SPF 30 protection to protect your teen’s skin from the sun’s UV rays. 

13. Best Makeup Sponge: AOA Studio Super Soft Paw Paw Wonder Blender

Makeup sponges are a helpful tool for applying all sorts of cosmetics, and these Paw Paw Wonder Blenders won a Best of Allure award in 2022. They can be used wet or dry to blend foundation or apply powders, and the precision tip is handy for sculpting around the eyes or nose. These sponges come in a pack of six — all for a low price — and each can be used for up to 30 applications before replacing them. 

14. Best Facial Brush: PMD Clean Smart Facial Cleansing Device

If your daughter wants to improve her skincare routine, the PMD Clean will help boost her daily cleansing. This smart facial cleansing device is designed to help wash your face, featuring a silicone head that vibrates 7,000 times per minute. It helps break down oils and dirt within pores, and the low-maintenance tool comes in various fun colors that your teen will love. 

15. Best Shaving Cream: Tree Hut Bare Moisturizing Shave Oil

Most girls want to start shaving their legs and underarms during their teenage years, and you can set your daughter up for success with a good shaving product like the Tree Hut Shave Oil. This popular teen beauty product isn’t a traditional foaming shaving cream —instead, it’s a gel-like oil that helps prevent irritation and razor bumps. The coconut-lime version has a bright tropical scent, but it also comes in other fragrances.   

16. Best Cleanser for Athletes: CLn SportWash 

Teen athletes may have a unique set of skincare challenges. Sweaty clothing and public locker rooms can often lead to acne and folliculitis, and the CLn SportWash is designed with these young athletes in mind. The gel formula will help cleanse the skin and keep it clear of buildup, and it can either be used daily or as needed after sporting events. 

17. Best Makeup Remover: Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water

If your teen daughter has started wearing makeup, she’ll need a good makeup remover to help take it off at the end of the day — which can help reduce bummer breakouts. The Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water is an effective and budget-friendly option, and its no-rinse formula is ideal for teens. It’s gentle on all skin types and hydrates while removing makeup, dirt, and oil. 

18. Best Heat Spray: L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle Sleek It Iron Straight Heat Spray

Does your teen straighten her hair every day before school? If so, she needs a heat spray like this one from L’Oreal Paris to reduce damage to her strands. The lightweight heat spray will protect her hair from temperatures up to 450 degrees, helping to prevent burning and breakage. It also helps seal hair for a frizz-free shine, and it will keep hair looking sleek on humid days. 

19. Best Eyelash Curler: Tweezerman Classic Eyelash Curler

One of Alix Earle’s beauty must-haves is an eyelash curler, and the TikTok star uses this inexpensive one from Tweezerman to get her signature lash look. The classic design has rounded curler pads for better lift, and it’s safe and easy for beginners to use. It will deliver a crimp-free curl on your daughter’s lashes and even comes with a few replacement pads.

Why You Can Trust Us

While my teen years are behind me, I still remember how exciting it was to try all the different types of makeup and beauty products in high school. My friends and I used to have a blast experimenting at sleepovers or in the bathroom between classes! 

Many of the teen beauty products included on this list are items I discovered back then and still use today — even though I’m well into my 20s; you can always find Neutrogena Oil-Free Pink Grapefruit Acne Wash, Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen, and L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle Sleek It Iron Straight Heat Spray in my bathroom cabinet. 

For the one I haven’t personally tried, I relied on expert reviews to find the best teen beauty products. Much of my research came from dermatologist-curated recommendations, beauty awards from magazines like Allure and Cosmo, and reviews from real users on sites like Amazon and Ulta Beauty.

Prices were accurate at the time of publication.

Editor’s Note: If you’re trying to determine how to pay for your teen’s college expenses, learning about the differences in undergraduate student loans is a crucial step. Jeff Levy, a Certified Educational Planner, discusses Direct Loans, Parent Plus Loans, and loans from private sources. He also helps answer the question about how much a student, and/or their family, should borrow to pay for college.

Different types of undergraduate student loans

1. Direct Loan

The single best loan an undergraduate can borrow is the federal Direct Loan, and it’s not just for students with financial need. Any student, regardless of need, can borrow up to the maximum: $5,500 as a freshman, $6,500 as a sophomore, $7,500 as a junior, and $7,500 as a senior. That’s a 4-year total of $27,000. If a student needs to spend more than four years in college, the lifetime maximum an undergraduate can borrow is $31,000.

To qualify for a federal student loan, a student’s credit rating and FICO score are not considered.

2. Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans

Most students receiving financial aid will see two federal Direct Loans in their award letter. One will be a Direct Subsidized Loan, which will total $3,500 for a freshman. The federal government pays the interest while the student is in college. The other is a Direct Unsubsidized Loan, which for a freshman will be $2,000. Interest accrues from the date of disbursal on unsubsidized loans. Both loans have the same low fee and low interest rate (see #5 below).

Even though repayment on these loans doesn’t begin until six months after graduation, I highly recommend paying off the unsubsidized loan interest monthly so the principle doesn’t suddenly balloon when it’s time to begin repayment.

3. Students Who Do Not Qualify for Need-Based Aid

Even students who do not qualify for need-based financial aid are entitled to borrow up to the maximum in Direct Unsubsidized Loans.

4. Student Loan Repayment Pause

Since COVID’s appearance in the U.S. in early 2020, there has been a series of pauses on federal student loan repayment and interest has been set at 0%. But these provisions are likely to expire soon, and repayments likely to resume by September 1, 2023. Until that date, no repayments need be made, and no interest will accrue on any loan balances.

5. Direct Loan Interest Rate

The interest rate on federal Direct Loans are set annually by Congress in late May or early June and are based on the yield of the 10-year Treasury note. The fee for these loans is about 1%.

6. FAFSA

To begin the process of applying for financial aid and federal loans, the student must submit the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). The FAFSA becomes available on October 1 of the student’s senior year of high school except in 2023 when the new simplified FAFSA will probably not be available until December.

The form is completed online, and submitted once to the Department of Education which processes it and distributes it to each school the student has listed on the form. Institutional financial aid deadlines vary — some may be as early as November 1 of the student’s senior year. So it is crucial that the FAFSA is submitted prior the earliest institutional deadline on the student’s college list.

7. Families Who Are NOT Applying for Financial Aid

If a student’s family has decided not to apply for financial aid but wants to borrow Direct Unsubsidized Loans, the FAFSA must still be submitted. In this case I recommend not submitting the form until after the family has deposited at the college of their choice by May 1. Following submission of the FAFSA, the student or parent should contact the financial aid office of the college letting them know their plans to borrow federal student loans.

8. Parent Plus Loan

What if a family needs to borrow more than the annual limit of federal Direct Loans? Parents can borrow federal Parent PLUS loans, which have a higher interest rate and fee than undergraduate Direct Loans.

9. Private Sources of Student Loans

Are there private sources of student loans? Yes, many banks, credit unions, and lending institutions offer education and personal loans. They are never as competitive as federal undergraduate loans, but may have better terms than federal Parent PLUS loans. It’s important to shop carefully, but not until after the federal loan rates are set in late May or early June.

For homeowners who have built equity in their home and have a strong credit history, a home equity line of credit (HELOC) can be a smart source of college funding as well.

10. How Much Debt Should Parents and/or Their Teens Take On?

Carefully consider how much debt you and your teen can take on. If a student borrows the maximum amount in federal student loans and interest is paid monthly while she is in college, she will graduate after four years with student loan debt of $27,000. Her monthly repayments will be manageable even if her first job after college pays as little as $35,000 a year.

But parents approaching retirement with not many earning years ahead of them need to think carefully about how much debt is reasonable, and how much is too much, before making this important decision. 

To Read More:

FAFSA and CSS Profile: What Parents Need to Know

How to Appeal a Financial Aid Award if You Need More Money

Despite the pros and cons of multicultural parenting, the fusion of cultures within families is a powerful force that shapes the identities of children in remarkable ways.

Just to illustrate, picture a world where your child hears and understands music in different languages, celebrates diverse holidays, and is surrounded by an array of cultural artifacts from around the globe.

Elsewhere, what happens when cultures collide and intertwine within your home? Imagine your house sprinkled with aromas of Indian spices, the sounds of African drumming, and the colors of Chinese calligraphy!

By and large, multicultural parenting goes beyond simply acknowledging diversity. It actively seeks to create an environment where children embrace the mosaic of their cultural heritage.

In this discussion, we will explore the unique challenges and incredible benefits of nurturing children in multicultural environments. We will discover how cultural identity is fostered, diversity is celebrated, and a kaleidoscope of traditions weaves a rich tapestry of family life.

Exactly What is Multicultural Parenting?

Multicultural parenting refers to the process of raising children in homes where multiple cultures intersect. This allows them to embrace diversity, foster their cultural identity, and develop a broader perspective of the world.

It involves nurturing and guiding children in a way that embraces and celebrates the diversity of their cultural backgrounds.

It recognizes and incorporates the customs, traditions, values, languages, and practices from different cultures, allowing children to develop a strong sense of cultural identity and appreciation for diversity.

At its core, multicultural parenting involves navigating the challenges and opportunities that arise from blending different cultural influences within the family dynamic.

It requires parents to actively engage with and understand the cultural backgrounds of both themselves and their children, as well as the broader multicultural society in which they reside.

This delightful journey, though not without its trials, bestows a wealth of rewards that enrich the lives of both parents and children alike.

Here are Some Key Aspects of Multicultural Parenting:

1. Cultural Identity:

Multicultural parents strive to help their children develop a strong sense of cultural identity. This involves exposing children to their family’s cultural heritage, teaching them about their roots, and encouraging pride in their cultural background.

Multicultural parents may engage in activities such as celebrating cultural festivals, teaching native languages, sharing stories and traditions, and connecting with extended family members who embody the cultural heritage.

2. Cultural Exposure and Learning:

Multicultural parents expose their children to a variety of cultural experiences and encourage them to learn about different cultures.

They may explore diverse cuisines, visit cultural events or museums, participate in community activities, and interact with people from different cultural backgrounds. This exposure helps children gain a broader perspective, empathy, and appreciation for the diversity of the world.

3. Language Acquisition:

Multicultural parenting often involves raising children in multilingual environments or encouraging the learning of additional languages.

Parents may speak different languages at home or provide opportunities for language learning through classes, tutors, or immersion programs. Bilingualism or multilingualism not only enhances communication skills but also facilitates cultural connections and a deeper understanding of different cultures.

4. Value Education:

Multicultural parents prioritize teaching their children the values of inclusivity, respect, and acceptance. They promote an open-minded mindset and encourage their children to appreciate and embrace cultural differences.

Through discussions, storytelling, and modeling behavior, parents help children develop empathy, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to navigate diverse social contexts.

5. Balancing Traditions:

Multicultural parents face the challenge of harmonizing traditions and customs from different cultures within the family. This involves finding a balance that respects and honors each cultural background while creating a cohesive family identity. For example, parents may integrate holidays, rituals, and celebrations from multiple cultures, allowing children to experience and appreciate the richness of their diverse heritage.

6. Cultural Adaptability:

Multicultural parenting nurtures children’s adaptability to different cultural environments. Children growing up in multicultural families develop skills to navigate between different cultural norms, languages, and social expectations. They learn to be comfortable in diverse settings, readily adapt to new situations, and appreciate the benefits of cultural diversity.

7. Global Citizenship:

Multicultural parenting fosters a sense of global citizenship and prepares children to engage with the world beyond their immediate cultural surroundings. It encourages an understanding of global issues, respect for different perspectives, and the desire to contribute positively to society on a global scale.

In essence, multicultural parenting entails embracing diversity, fostering cultural identity, promoting cultural learning, and equipping children with the skills and values needed to thrive in an interconnected world. It creates an environment where children grow up appreciating their own cultural heritage while celebrating and respecting the cultural richness of others.

The Challenge of Balancing Multiple Cultures:

Multicultural parenting requires delicately balancing various cultural influences. Parents must navigate traditions, customs, languages, and values from different backgrounds, ensuring their children grow up with a deep appreciation for each culture.

This challenge often leads to fascinating experiences where the fusion of traditions can create a unique family tapestry. For example, a multicultural family might celebrate both Christmas and Diwali, creating a harmonious blend of Western and Indian customs.

1. Fostering Cultural Identity:

One of the key goals of multicultural parenting is to help children develop a strong sense of cultural identity. Parents can achieve this by actively involving children in cultural activities, such as music, dance, cuisine, and storytelling.

For instance, teaching a child about their Chinese heritage may involve participating in Lunar New Year celebrations, learning Mandarin, or exploring traditional Chinese art forms. This active engagement fosters a deep connection with their roots and nurtures a strong sense of pride in their heritage.

2. Language Acquisition and Multilingualism:

Multicultural parenting often involves exposing children to multiple languages, opening doors to enhanced communication skills and cognitive development.

Bilingual or multilingual children gain a broader perspective and increased adaptability, enabling them to effortlessly navigate diverse environments. For example, a child growing up in a household where English and Spanish are spoken may seamlessly switch between the two languages, embracing the richness of both cultures.

3. Embracing Diversity and Global Awareness:

Raising children in multicultural environments cultivates an appreciation for diversity and instills global awareness from an early age. Children learn to respect and value different perspectives, developing empathy and becoming culturally sensitive individuals.

This exposure can be achieved through interactions with diverse communities, celebrating cultural festivals, or exploring different cuisines. By fostering an inclusive mindset, children are better equipped to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.

4. Enhanced Cognitive Flexibility:

Multicultural parenting promotes cognitive flexibility, as children navigate between different cultural norms and practices. This adaptability strengthens their problem-solving skills, creativity, and critical thinking abilities.

For instance, a child who is exposed to diverse cultural perspectives may develop a heightened ability to approach challenges from various angles, resulting in a well-rounded mindset that embraces innovation and embraces change.

The Last Word:

Multicultural parenting presents an intricate tapestry of challenges and benefits. Nurturing children in multicultural environments involves balancing multiple cultures, fostering cultural identity, promoting language acquisition, embracing diversity, and developing cognitive flexibility.

By actively engaging with these challenges, parents create an environment where children thrive as open-minded, empathetic, and culturally enriched individuals.

As the world continues to evolve into a global village, multicultural parenting plays a pivotal role in shaping a future generation that cherishes diversity and embraces the beauty of cultural differences.

Well, as luck would have it, I missed a physical therapy appointment that I needed, so I ended up making the journey to that area again, since that is where my physical therapist’s other clinic is, and of course, I did a grocery shop, with a focus on produce, since that is where the biggest price difference is. Not everything there was significantly cheaper than my local store, some things were the same price, but that’s cool with me.

First off, wings. Locally they’ve been around $1.29 per pound. They were selling them for $0.84 a pound, the lowest I’ve seen then in a while. I bought 2.84 lb for a total of $2.39.

Ground beef, when buying straight ground beef, is often $6.48 a pound. Sometimes I can buy it cheaper for $5.20. They had it on sale for $4.92 per pound, so I bought 6.86 lbs for $33.75.

I was out of oil and would have price compared and bought the lowest price one, but luckily it was on sale, being $1.90 per bottle instead of the usual $2.54 per bottle, as long as you bought 3. So I did.

Now for produce, since this is where there is the most significant difference. So many for only $0.25 per pound, prices that I hadn’t seen elsewhere in years.

Greens (scallions, celery, celeriac, and swiss chard) were 4 for $3.40, so $0.85 each 4 instead of the usual of $0.91 each at the cheaper store (other stores are $1.95 per package). Not so much cheaper, but still cool with me. 

The total cost of my produce was only $29.53! My shop total was $86.20.  

I hope you are as impressed as I am with these stupendous prices. Totally worth the trip there, even better that I was in the area anyhow.

Have you gotten any great deals on produce or other groceries lately? How much do you generally pay per pound for produce? What is considered a good price per pound?

Do you think you can beat the clock at Escape Artist Greenville SC? Several years ago, some friends were visiting from out of town and wanted to meet up. When we asked them what they would like to do, they suggested that we meet up at one of Greenville’s top escape rooms, Escape Artist Greenville. We are very glad that we said yes. In fact, we had such a great time we can’t stop recommending Escape Artist to all of our friends in Greenville.

What is Escape Artist Greenville Like?

Upon arriving, we were energized immediately by owners Will and Kim Rutherford’s enthusiasm. It was impossible to not catch the excitement about trying to test our group’s wits against one of their escape rooms.

After a short explanation of rules such as “don’t tear apart the ceiling” followed by a creepy story intro we handed over our iPhones and headed into  “Dr. Fratelli’s cabin”. Inside the mad scientist’s cabin, we quickly got to work looking inside and under the many objects in order to start finding clues. These clues then led to puzzles that had to be solved in order to find the special locked exit and escape the room where Dr. Fratelli had trapped us. Of course, the primary entrance remained unlocked so we weren’t actually physically locked in. It is just a game!

We were given just one hour to escape the room, but we had the ability to ask for three clues during our hour. Will was watching us through his surveillance cameras and was quick to offer the exact help needed for each clue. The puzzles were challenging but still simple enough for a group to solve.

Did We Escape?

Of course, the first question everyone asks is “Did you escape?” Actually, Will told us that only 20-25% of the groups that try the room “get out”. We made it though with only a couple of minutes left to spare and we used all 3 hints.

Will greeted us after we finished and shared his own observations of how we solved the puzzle. We then were allowed to grab our phones again so that Kim could take a victory photo for us showcasing our time.

Is Escape Artist Greenville Worth the Money?

Escape Artist is a little bit more expensive than most of the attractions my husband and I visit, starting at around $30/person. It was worth every penny we spent. We had so much fun working together, laughing at our mistakes, and bragging about what we solved. The room was very well designed, all of the clues were clear and worked correctly, and Will & Kim executed everything wonderfully. It’s no wonder that they have received so many 5 star reviews.

Any hints?

Well, of course, I can’t give any hints on how to solve the puzzle because that would ruin the fun, but here are a couple tips to help you have the best chances of victory:

1. Don’t be afraid to ask for a clue when you are stuck. It’s better to use them up than not get out!
2. Get started quickly. Don’t be shy about looking around the room when you enter it. The sooner you find your first clues the better.
3. Don’t overthink your clues. None of the clues will require knowing weird facts and you won’t mess up your clues by touching or moving objects in the room.
4. Playing an escape room game on your tablet or phone ahead of time will help give you an idea of the types of puzzles you might encounter.
5. Have fun! Don’t get too stressed out. This activity is all about having a good time.

What About Kids?

I visited Escape Artist Greenville with 3 other adults and I thought that it was a great adult activity but older children and teens would definitely enjoy it as well. Children under 16 are allowed to attend with an adult, and Will told us that he had even recently hosted a party of 11-year-olds. Will did tell us that he adapts the clues as necessary for children and that the children who have come through really have enjoyed the puzzle. All of the content in the story and inside the room was appropriate for any age audience and there weren’t any thematic elements that would scare a child.

About Escape Artist: Greenville SC

Be sure to book your time ahead of time online. Due to the nature of the event, space is limited and 2 hours advanced reservation is required.

This attraction is completely unique to Greenville. While there are other “escape rooms” in Greenville and in other cities, Will & Kim specifically designed this room and story making it a one-of-a-kind adventure.

The attraction can fit 2-8 people at a time. Your group may get placed with another group if you don’t purchase the entire 8 tickets.

In addition to Dr. Fratelli’s Cabin, there are four other escape rooms including our current favorite Starlight Motel (a spooky, interactive room for adults). You can read about Starlight Motel in our review.

There is a second location of Escape Artist Greenville, located at Hampton Station. The Hampton Station location has fewer rooms (Help Wanted and Dark Lullaby), but the proximity to dining, breweries, and shopping makes it a great activity.

The Escape Artist Greenville: SC Has Two Locations!

209 East Stone Avenue, Greenville, SC
864-509-9305
[email protected]
www.escapeartistgreenville.com
Book the Downtown Greenville location

Hampton Station
1320 Hampton Avenue, Bay 11C, Greenville, SC
Book the Hampton Station location

Have you ever visited The Escape Artist or another Escape Room in Greenville? We would love to hear what you thought in the comments!

An Upstate Outdoor Favorite: Paris Mountain State Park, Greenville, SC

Have you found the fairies in Hendersonville, NC? Bullington Gardens in Hendersonville, NC, just a little over an hour north of Greenville, SC has an adorable fairy garden over the summer. And it’s free. 

What could be cuter than finding fairies in the woods? Finding them in a beautiful and fun trail at Bullington Gardens in Hendersonville, NC, of course. 

C.S. Lewis, a prolific and famous author of the Narnia chronicles, wrote this to his goddaughter, Lucy, in the Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe:

My Dear Lucy, I wrote this story for you, but when I began it I had not realized that girls grow quicker than books. As a result you are already too old for fairy tales, and by the time it is printed and bound you will be older still. But someday you will be old enough to start reading fairy tales again. You can then take it down from some upper shelf, dust it, and tell me what you think of it. I shall probably be too deaf to hear, and too old to understand, a word you say, but I shall still be your affectionate Godfather, C.S. Lewis

As a grown-up, are you ready to be old enough to read – or see – fairy tales again? If so, step into the Bullington Gardens Fairy Trail.

The Gardens

Bullington Gardens is only a little over an hour north of Greenville and is a beautiful spot to stop and literally smell the roses. The gardens are public and encompass 12 acres right in the middle of the apple orchards in that part of Western North Carolina. 

They also do several events and programs aimed at education and carry on the legacy and vision of Bob Bullington, who collected many unusual trees and plants. They often have school groups come out and learn about horticultural science. 

I found the gardens to be just beautiful and so peaceful. The volunteers I interacted with were all so kind and helpful. It’s really a great place to visit for any occasion. 

The Gardens received a grant for new restroom facilities, where were scheduled to be completed by April 2023. We have not been able to confirm if this has happened yet.

The Fairy Trail 

The fairy trail is exactly as it sounds except cooler. The trail winds through shaded woods and guests are encouraged to find all the little fairy houses and trolls and llamas and bridges. It is really fun and entertaining! 

The little worlds that the fairies inhabit are all unique and my kids and I just loved trying to find them all and figure out what was happening in each scene. The exhibits change every year (photos are from the summer of 2022) but the creativity and genius stay the same. 

The trail isn’t long, maybe a quarter-mile on natural, unpaved ground, but there are plenty of fairies and gnomes to find. Be sure to stop at the side trail before you get to the very end where there are lots of fairies and trolls and toadstools and gnomes doing yoga amongst the trees. 

Bullington Gardens asks that guests be respectful of the fairies, only touch gently, and to stay on the trails. The trail is one way only so if you want to take your time, go for it but make room for others to pass. And please follow the rules of Leave No Trace, don’t litter, and don’t move the fairies from their little houses.

The Fairy Trail is open Mondays – Saturdays from June 1 – August 31, 2023 from 9 am – 4 pm. 

Fairy Market

During the summer of 2023, the Fairy Market will be set up at Bullington Gardens on June 24, 2023 from 9 am – 3 pm. This event will include face painting, arts and crafts, a photo booth, Dulcimer lessons, and storytimes for kids. You can also buy adorable fairy accessories like wings and crowns or purchase your own fairies for a garden at home. Definitely a not-miss summer event.

This year there will not be timed entry so it’s first come, first serve. Per the gardens, parking is limited and please do not park on Zeb Corn Road.

Tips on Visiting the Fairy Trail and Bullington Gardens 

The gardens are open year-round but the Fairy Trail is only open June 1 – August 31, 2023, Mondays – Saturdays from 9 am – 4 pm. 

There is no charge to visit the fairies or Bullington Gardens but as a nonprofit, they gladly accept donations.

I saw some people with strollers but I’d say that unless you have an all-terrain stroller, it’s best to carry your littles or baby wear. The trail is natural, so not paved, which makes it hard to roll wheels on.

Please keep your children and dogs on the trail and don’t litter. The trail is one-way only.

Bullington Gardens recieved a grant for new restrooms that were supposed to be ready by April 2023 but we have not been to the Gardens since then and have not been able to confirm this information yet.

Nearby Things to Do in Hendersonville

There are plenty of cool things to do in Hendersonville to make your trip up to the see the fairies a day trip.

You can visit the goats at the Carl Sandburg Home (be sure to get pizza at the nearby Village Bakery), let the kids play on the awesome playground at The Park at Flat Rock, check out the free train museum, or visit the aquarium in downtown Hendersonville. Apple orchards open up in July usually so you can add those to your day trip as well.

Bullington Gardens
95 Upper Red Oak Trail, Hendersonville, NC 
828.698.6104

Asheville Adventure Park: Kid Zip Lining, Treetop Ropes Courses, and Canopy Zip Lining in WNC

There is a request I make of the students in my business professional development class at the beginning of every semester: You don’t have to get an internship but promise me you will do something this summer related to career development. We spend the rest of the semester talking about how they can do this.

But as much as I offer my guidance and training as an instructor, career choice is by far the topic that students mention their parents’ influence most often. Because one or both parents (and other significant adults in their lives) have been their models of and basis for understanding the professional world, many students see this as a journey they are on with their parents.

And the summer is a great opportunity to move these conversations into action, even if your student is not interning or working. I’m not talking about setting up interviews for your child, writing their resume (or paying someone to write it) or calling up an employer to ask why your child didn’t get a job. Please do not do any of those things. But there are concrete ways to be a partner as they navigate and explore what comes after college.

How to help your teen with career advice

1. Help them build their network.

Let’s get one thing clear from the beginning: You do not have to work in–or even fully understand –the industry in which your child is interested in order to be helpful. If you’re an accountant and your child wants to be an accountant, you probably don’t need to read this article. But just because you don’t have experience in your child’s field(s) of interest, does not mean you can’t connect them to people who do (keep reading if you are thinking, “But I don’t know anyone!”).

Job shadowing and informational interviews are a couple of the best ways a student can learn about a potential industry and make connections to build their network for future internship and job opportunities. The students in my class are required to conduct an informational interview with someone they don’t know and write a reflection paper on the experience. Many write in their essays that it is one of the most valuable assignments they have ever completed.

And while students tend to find their interview subject on their own through faculty or the university’s alumni network, many also start with their families. Again, I’m not saying you should do all the work for them, but making an introduction is exactly what networking is.

I have seen people post in my various Facebook moms/parenting groups about their son or daughter who is looking to learn more about X field. If I can assist–most of the time not even knowing the parent–I let them know I’m happy to try to help and to please have their child contact me. Think about your network and be generous with your introductions—then let your child take over!

2. Help them build their brand.

Even if they are not interning this summer, they will need to be thinking about them in the future. Internships have become the key recruiting pipeline for companies, with them preferring to grant full-time offers to interns. And recruiting at universities starts as early as September. The summer is a great time to make sure all of their materials –resumes, LinkedIn profiles, cover letters –are professional, error-free and ready to be tailored for specific opportunities.

While it is beneficial to have someone within the chosen field, anyone can be an extra set of eyes. I review about 350 resumes per year, and I have yet to see one that will be used for higher education jobs (my expertise). However, I have had students turn their resumes in with their name spelled wrong. Our eyes correct mistakes like that which makes proofreading our own work challenging. If all you do is check for proper spelling and grammar, I promise you that your child’s resume will be one step ahead of many I see. Here is a good resume checklist if you want to delve deeper.

3. Help them buy a suit.

A candidate has to look the part. I’m all for a student purchasing their own wardrobe, but if you want to throw money at your child’s job search, have it be for a nice suit. It does not need to be Armani, but it should last. Hopefully your child will be interviewing throughout their college career and a basic dark suit (pants or skirt for women) is essential. Department stores have great sales and many retailers give discounts for college students. (Check out this list for student discounts.)

And if a new suit is not in your budget, check with the university career center. Many have “closets” with donated professional clothes that students can borrow or take for interviews.

4. Help them talk it through.

While learning about different industries, summer is also an excellent time for self-exploration. I encourage students to think about their different strengths, interests and values as they pertain to career development and then talk about it with people they trust. There are free personality and interest-based assessments online that can serve as a jumping off point for self-reflection, but they don’t need fancy tests to tell them what they should do.

In my experience, the best way parents can help is to listen, share what they think are their child’s strengths, and reassure them that it’s okay (and normal) if they don’t have all the answers or if they feel confused. I always tell my students that I’m middle age and I’m still confused about what I want to be! Encourage them to try new things and see what they like.

5. Help them make their own decisions.

Every time I watch my four-year-old son focus his attention on the Lego tower he’s building, I think how nice it would be if he wants to be an engineer when he grows up. When his twin brother gets so excited to go to the dentist that you would think we were on our way to Disneyworld, I imagine him 20 years down the road in dental school. Because we all want our children to be happy. And wouldn’t it be nice if that happiness came with a healthy paycheck and job security?

But while the journey might be shared, the destination is theirs alone–and so must be the ultimate decision. Remind them that nothing is final and they can always change their mind (I’ve seen plenty of accounting majors enter fields that are NOT accounting). Let them know you can’t wait to see what comes next.

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As a divorced mom, one of the biggest reasons I never want to get married again is kids. When you have kids, or when someone you are dating has kids, they add a lot of extra layers of complexity to the relationship, and in many cases can even be the cause of a relationship ending. Second time around is so much better. I know remarried people that decided to stay in separate houses since that was better for their kids. However, many people feel differently than I do about remarriage and wanting to live with their partner, so if you do, here are some important things to keep in mind to make this as smooth as possible.

Moving in together with your new partner is a huge step in life. It may be more challenging, especially if you have children, since you must introduce them to your partner to make them comfortable around them. They may have difficulty accepting the idea and adapting to the new change that impacts their life.

Involving your children may complicate cohabitation and affect more than just you and your partner. Therefore, there are some factors you should consider before cohabiting with your partner and children. Read further into the article to learn how to make cohabitation successful and your children happy and optimistic about moving in:

You and your partner should sign a cohabitation agreement to protect your net worth and property in case of disputes. If you’d like to learn more about this, click here to learn the benefits of a cohabitation agreement and how to acquire one. In addition, early communication and planning make cohabiting and parenting easy and accommodating to your partner and children.

Maintain A Healthy Relationship With Your Ex

Deciding to cohabit with your new partner and your children means you have to co-parent with your ex. This can be messy in the long run due to a lack of trust, insecurity, and suspicion between each other. All these factors may eventually sabotage your relationship with your partner and your children.

Hire a professional lawyer from Musson Law or similar reliable firms to handle your divorce and parenting arrangements to make cohabitation stress-free. That way, you can co-parent your children under judicial laws without complicating your relationship with your partner. All in all, create a positive relationship with your ex to create a safe and comfortable environment for your children.

Prepare Your Children

Cohabiting with your new partner and your children, young or teenagers, may not be easy for them. So, sit them down and discuss why and when you plan to move in with your partner. Next, ask them what they think about this decision and whether they agree.

Make sure to introduce your children to your partner and give them time to get acquainted before discussing the idea of cohabitation. Then, if they’re okay with it, you can prepare to move in with your partner, and if not, give them time to get used to the idea. Furthermore, reassure them they’ll still be your priority, even if your partner’s children are involved, and that your partner won’t replace their biological parent.

Check On Your Children

Cohabiting with your partner marks a new chapter for your children, as it may involve changing schools and living in an unfamiliar area. All these changes may negatively affect your child psychologically and emotionally.

Therefore, you must always be available when they need you and constantly check on them. Help them adjust to the new changes and reach out wherever you can. If your child finds it hard to cooperate or accept the idea, seek help from family, friends, or a family therapist to address the emotional and psychological challenges associated with the new move.

Prepare For A Turnaround

Moving in with your new partner isn’t going to be a bed of roses for your children. There will be challenges you have to address concerning your children. Expect a range of challenges, such as tantrums, back talk, and rebellion, as children react to the changes in their lives. You should, therefore, prepare yourself for the behavioral changes and plan how to handle them with your partner.

Behavioral changes depend on your child’s age, as toddlers cry and throw fits while teenagers act rebellious and back-talk to their parents. Moreover, you should exert some control over your parenting style while understanding your children’s feelings. This will help keep your children under control and the household peaceful.

Set Ground Rules For Your Children

Set ground rules that enable everyone in the household to live harmoniously and comfortably. There should also be household routines that accommodate your children and partner equally. For example, you can set up a weekly family meeting to discuss the household issues and challenges one individually faces. You may receive hostility and resentment from your children by setting such rules. However, it’d help to be strict and explain that it’s meant to exercise respect and harmony in the house.

Once the rules and routines have been established, make sure they are consistently followed. Failure to do so may cause chaos and misunderstanding in the house, something you’re trying to avoid. Even though it’ll take time for your children to adjust to the rules, explaining and ensuring they follow them will help them adapt to the set guidelines.

Conclusion

Moving into a new home with your children can be stressful, but things will become more manageable once everyone has settled in. The above guidelines will prepare you for what to expect and how to solve parenting and co-parenting challenges that come with divorce and subsequent cohabiting. Either way, take this new step with positivity and confidence, and you’re guaranteed a happy and successful family.

Photo of Gabriella Carafa with baby Giovanna. Read Gabriella’s story of her journey to parenthood.

By Louise Kinross

Disabled Ontario women say their health care crumbled after they gave birth, according to a qualitative study published in March in the Journal of Advanced Nursing. The study, one of the first to look closely at postpartum support for people with disabilities, found after-birth care was spotty. When it was provided, it wasn’t tailored to the person’s disability. For example, deaf participants couldn’t access sign-language interpreters in hospital or at well-baby checks. Mothers with physical disabilities found staff inflexible in adapting breastfeeding techniques to their needs. “There were no resources,” one of the 31 participants said. “I just had the baby and ‘We’re done with you.'” BLOOM interviewed co-investigator Hilary Brown, assistant professor in the department of health and society at University of Toronto Scarborough.

BLOOM: Why was there a need for this study?

Hilary Brown: There’s been some work showing that women with disability are at elevated risk for complications during pregnancy and that they often face barriers accessing pregnancy care as well. We know that one in eight pregnancies are to women with a disability, so this is a clinically important issue. But less research has focused on the postpartum period. We wanted to understand what goes on after they’ve given birth and are transitioning home with their baby.

BLOOM: The women who said care vanished reminded me of what happens to youth with disabilities who fall off the ‘care cliff’ when they transition to adult care. The health system seems unable to attend to the lifelong needs of people with disabilities.

Hilary Brown: I completely agree. I’m thinking of a comment from one individual who talked about all the support they received in pregnancy, because they were labelled high-risk: ‘If I was high risk in pregnancy, how does that disappear once I get home?’

BLOOM: What were your key findings?

Hilary Brown: We found three major themes. The first is a lack of adequate care. Supports completely fell away in the postpartum period.

The second was the lack of provider awareness about disability and accommodations people needed. For example, there was a lack of knowledge about how to manage pain in people who experienced flares in their [conditions] postpartum, and how to prevent people from having crises when they went home. 

Lack of disability awareness bled into newborn care. So not understanding that deaf participants needed an ASL interpreter when they went for the baby’s first check-up with the pediatrician.

There was a lot of inflexibility. Participants would say that the way the lactation consultant or nurse told me to breastfeed didn’t work. ‘I showed them what did work, but they didn’t want me to do it that way.’ There was a lack of ability to adapt to someone’s specific needs or to think creatively.

The third thing was this real fear of judgment and discrimination. We saw this especially in the postpartum period. Once people went home with the baby there was a sense that others were making judgments about their parenting abilities, watching them really closely and being quite intrusive.

Several commented that they had declined supports, like a visit from the public health nurse, because rather than it being offered in a strengths-based and positive way, it felt like the person was on the lookout to judge their abilities. Fear of judgment about their parenting was a big piece and wove into being fearful to reach out for support with breastfeeding or mental health. 

A lot felt they were being held to a higher standard than other parents. Every parent goes through a transition when they take their baby home and every parent has different struggles, whether with breastfeeding or sleep or postpartum depression. But these participants felt providers put an extra layer of requirements on them that wasn’t realistic.

BLOOM: Did anything surprise you about what you heard?

Hilary Brown: Sadly no. Based on the literature and what we’d heard broadly about pregnancy care, a lot of things fit with what we were expecting.

Something that was really interesting was we were looking across disabilities that included physical, sensory and intellectual disabilities. A lot of what we heard applied across all groups, but in slightly different ways. So accessibility issues in the physical environment applied to someone with a mobility disability, but communication barriers affected those with sensory or intellectual disabilities. Despite very different experiences, there were common threads of practical things that could have helped everyone.

BLOOM: I was struck by the story of one mother whose baby had heart problems and eventually died. The parent found the NICU completely inaccessible. ‘It’s just assumed that the parents are fully abled, right?’ she said. She was blind, and the staff didn’t orient her to the equipment her baby was hooked up to, so she was afraid to touch her baby. She was prevented from touching her baby, who only lived for a few days.

Hilary Brown: Heartbreaking. It really speaks to the need for simple training for health-care providers as to what basic accommodation needs are, and their responsibility to provide them. It’s a human right. There’s a lot of poor communication and negative assumptions on the part of providers.

BLOOM: It seemed participants were afraid to ask for help or to say something was challenging, because they didn’t want to be viewed as a bad parent. And that impacted their mental health.

It’s important to emphasize that none of these experiences are universal. Some participants had midwives who did home visits postpartum, and they felt well supported because they’d already built a relationship of trust and respect with them.

For participants who didn’t have a good provider relationship, there was fear and hesitancy to reach out.

It goes back to the transition issues you mentioned. A couple of participants talked about having incredible obstetricians who were extremely helpful and had specific expertise related to disability. But when they looked for a pediatrician for the baby, they wanted someone who was disability-affirming and had that knowledge of maternal disability, and they couldn’t find it. 

BLOOM: What changes are needed to make postpartum care disability-friendly?

Hilary Brown: It partly boils down to education for providers. We’re working on some papers where we interviewed providers and heard that they don’t receive disability-related training. One of the starting points is to have better knowledge and resources for providers.

Another piece is to have a structure in place that allows for the transition from the obstetrician to the family doctor or pediatrician. There needs to be a care plan or a transition document or a health-care navigator that helps to outline the needs and ensures continued supports.

More broadly, we need supports tailored to people with disabilities. For example, we heard from some people that mental-health support would have been more useful if it had been delivered by someone who had a disability. We need to tailor existing supports to the needs of people with disability.

BLOOM: I’ve heard positive things about the Accessible Care Pregnancy Clinic at Sunnybrook Hospital, which is dedicated to this population. Do we need more dedicated clinics? Or can disability-specific care become part of the mainstream?

Hilary Brown: People ask me this all the time. I’m torn. I do think more clinics like that are needed. But the issue with specialized clinics is they tend to be in larger urban centres that aren’t useful for people in rural areas who have to travel long distances to receive care.

On the flip side, rural obstetricians or family physicians might only have one or two pregnant people with disabilities in their practice in their entire career.

So we need broader training so other health-care providers can provide the basic standards of care. We need some sort of formal consultation system where a provider can say ‘I have a pregnant patient with a disability and I have these questions about them.’ But it can’t just be done informally. It needs formal structure and funding.

BLOOM: Your study reminded me of other recent studies about how little training acute-care doctors and nurses get in working with patients with autism. Now we have a trend of autistic people being hospitalized because they can’t get what they need in the community, and hospital staff are ill-trained to care for them. 

Hilary Brown: I agree. What we hear from the physicians we talk to is if they hear anything about disability, it’s as a health outcome, not as a population seeking health care. They might learn about autism as a neurodevelopmental disability and hear about the symptoms, but they don’t learn about the needs of autistic people who are accessing care. It has to do with the medicalization of disability and needs to move to a rights-based, equity-based framework. 

It’s interesting that there’s a lot more emphasis now on diversity and inclusion in medical school. A lot has focused on racism, which of course is incredibly important. But we’ve left disability out of that conversation. It would be such an easy add to add ableism. 

BLOOM: The kind of gaps you see in postpartum care for disabled moms are potential safety hazards.

Hilary Brown: They’re very serious. They can put mom and the baby in danger. In other parts of our research we’re using health administration data to look at health outcomes, and we see higher rates of postpartum ER visits and hospital admissions and other complications for mothers with disabilities. We can’t directly link those to our qualitative findings about postpartum care. But we can infer that the gaps could potentially be part of the reason for these kind of serious consequences at a population level.

Like this story? Sign up for our monthly BLOOM e-letter. You’ll get family stories and expert advice on raising children with disabilities; interviews with activists, clinicians and researchers; and disability news.

My middle child was diagnosed with leukemia as a toddler. She was on chemotherapy for three years. From ages two to five, she received a regular regimen of IV and oral chemotherapy with monthly spinal injections of a drug called methotrexate to keep cancer cells out of her brain and spine.  

The good, wonderful, fabulous news is that all those chemotherapy drugs did their job. She was a cancer survivor by age six, and the worst was behind us. We had our daughter and that was the biggest answer to prayer we could ask for. We would figure out the rest. 

Going through chemo during formative years led to my daughter struggling in school

We didn’t know that going through chemotherapy during those formative preschool years can wreak havoc on the developing brain. In Kindergarten, all the other students learned their sight words, but my daughter struggled.  

In first grade, other students learned to read, but my daughter continued to struggle. In second grade, the reading gap grew, and we knew we had to do something. We took our daughter to a neuropsychologist who specialized in post-chemo learning. She tested her for a wide range of learning issues. The findings were not earth-shattering. My daughter had ADD and a delayed processing speed.  

The doctor explained that not only were these two diagnoses in line with what they see for children treated with the type of cancer that my daughter had but also that they weren’t uncommon at all. We went home with a list of recommended accommodations and modifications, and an uneasy feeling about her potential to keep up with her classmates. This little girl had already been through so much. It just didn’t feel fair for her to continue struggling and falling behind.  

We worked with her school to create a support team

We worked hard with the school to create a support team and plan to help her bridge the gap and gain some of the skills that she was lacking. We paid extra for daily learning support and tutoring. We were diligent in our at-home practice of math facts and sight words. It was exhausting. And sometimes it felt like we weren’t making any progress.

I can’t tell you how many times our homework sessions would end up in tears. It was so hard to continue to be encouraging when she studied for a test for hours and still did not do well.  She couldn’t see the progress. She couldn’t see the payoff, and sometimes I couldn’t either.  The progress was slow. 

She struggled through elementary school. And I worried about sending her to middle school. Middle school wasn’t easy. C’s were the norm, and she worked hard to get those. But she didn’t give up. She continued to persevere. She displayed an extraordinary amount of stamina. But there were never any rewards. No A’s, no honor roll certificates, no recognition at assemblies, no awards at all.  

I kept telling her the payoff would come, but in truth, it made me angry. She survived cancer. She worked her tail off to maintain average work with a processing delay and ADD. She deserved recognition. But I smiled and clapped for her high-achieving classmates, and she continued to persevere.  

The first year of high school was really challenging

The first year of high school almost did us both in.  The work was hard. Her medication was wrong.  I was sure it was all just too much and she’d have to leave our beloved school where both of her siblings attended. We increased the hours of tutoring and learning support. We tried and tried again until we got her medication correct. We argued constantly.  

She didn’t want my help with schoolwork. I didn’t know how else to help her. My continual questioning about schoolwork was actually increasing her anxiety. After a very difficult first semester, one of her teachers encouraged me to back off. She said she would serve as a “coach” so that I no longer had to. She encouraged me to let her learn to handle it. She encouraged me to let her struggle. And when she did, the teacher assured me that she would jump in and not let her get too far behind.  

So, I backed off. After all, it was her life. My daughter was the one in the game. I needed to get off the field and let the coach do her job. It was scary, and freshman year continued to be difficult.  

Sophomore year of high school everything clicked

But miraculously, during her sophomore year, something changed. With the support of her teachers, it all clicked. She knew how to work hard. She was going to extra help before and after school. She knew how to advocate by reminding her teachers about her accommodations and meeting with them when she wasn’t offered those accommodations.

She was writing assignments in her agenda book and completing them. She used the study tools we practiced all those years to prepare for exams. She was doing it! And not only was she doing it, she was doing it well! The C’s slowly became B’s, and a few even became A’s. I could barely believe how independent was! She still wasn’t winning awards, but we didn’t care. She was achieving. She was thriving. Years of hard work were finally paying off. 

Next year my girl will be a senior in high school. She’s already taken the SAT with accommodations and totally rocked it on the first try. She has excellent study habits. She knows how to advocate for herself. And she has an amazing work ethic. She knows that she can do hard things. And I know that she can too. And I can’t wait to cheer her on from the sidelines. 

Middle school moms of students with ADD, take heart. It’s coming. The payoff is coming. It will click. And one day you’ll get to stop coaching and start cheering. There’s rest for the weary. Until then, persevere. Your child is watching. 

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Middle School Survival Guide for Parents from a Teacher and Mom of 4

Summer is getting close and I know you are wondering “Where can we find my kid’s free lunch near me?”. The upstate has programs in place to provide FREE breakfasts and lunches for kids in Greenville, Spartanburg, and Pickens Counties. So many families rely on the school system to assist with meals for their children. Local school districts are helping kids by eliminating the cost of school lunches and breakfast from parents’ worries.

This article includes:
Free Summer Meal Locations for Kids from Greenville County Schools
Free Summer Meal Locations for Kids from Spartanburg County Districts
Free Summer Meal Locations for Kids in Pickens County Schools

Things to Know about 2023 Free School Summer Meals for Kids

• ALL kids 18 and under in Greenville and Spartanburg Counties qualify for free summer school food service breakfast and lunches, no questions asked. Your child doesn’t need to attend a specific school or financially qualify.
• Children will be required to eat their meals on-site. There will not be takeaway meals for 2023 for Greenville County Schools.
• Pickens County does require children 18 and younger to be enrolled in school to receive meals. They also offer free meals for anyone enrolled in school-age 21 and older with mental or physical disabilities.

For more assistance with getting food for your family, check out our guide to Finding Help in the Upstate

Here are the locations where your kids can get free breakfast and lunch!

The Summer Food Service Program (2023)

For Summer 2023, Greenville County Schools will participate in the USDA Seamless Summer Food Service Program to provide meals to children in Greenville County. Spartanburg has a couple of districts that have confirmed meal programs, with specific districts listed below.

For Greenville County, All children 18 and under are eligible for free meals at any of the locations below on the designated dates. There will be no discrimination during the meal service – any child 18 and younger can show up and receive a free meal.

There is a map available on the USDA Summer Meals for Kids Site Finder to locate meal programs closest to your location. If you need additional food assistance for your children, you can contact the  USDA National Hunger Hotline, Monday through Friday between 7 am to 10 pm at 1.866.3.HUNGRY (1.866.348.6479) (for English) or 1.877.8.HAMBRE (1.877.842.6273) (for Spanish). This is the best way to get the latest information since all the locations have different times and locations can also change.

Additional Greenville County food resources can be located through the LiveWell Greenville spreadsheet and printable guide. These guides are provided in both English and Spanish, and have resources throughout the county to receive meals to combat food scarcity.

Free Lunch Near Me: Greenville County Schools Summer Meals

Beginning June 5, 2023, Greenville County Schools will offer free breakfast and lunch to all children 18 years and younger this summer from June through July. Roper Mountain Science Center will serve lunch beginning June 3, 2023, Monday through Saturday through August 5, 2023. Nutritionally balanced meals will be provided at several school locations as well as at Roper Mountain Science Center. Children must be present when picking up meals to go. All meal locations will be closed the week of July 3, 2023.

GCS Locations Serving Breakfast and Lunch for 2023

Berea High School: 201 Burdine Drive, Greenville
Meals Monday through Thursday: June 5, 2023 – July 27, 2023
Breakfast- 8 AM to 9 AM; Lunch 11 AM to 1 PM

Travelers Rest High School: 301 North Main Street, Travelers Rest
Meals Monday through Thursday: June 5, 2023 – July 27, 2023
Breakfast- 8 AM to 9 AM; Lunch 11 AM to 1 PM

Wade Hampton High School: 100 Pine Knoll Drive, Greenville
Meals Monday through Thursday: June 5, 2023 – July 27, 2023
Breakfast- 8 AM to 9 AM; Lunch 11 AM to 1 PM

Greer High School: 3000 East Gap Creek, Greer
Meals Monday through Thursday: June 5, 2023 – July 27, 2023
Breakfast- 8 AM to 9 AM; Lunch 11 AM to 1 PM

Southside High School: 6630 Frontage at White Horse Road, Greenville
Meals Monday through Thursday: June 5, 2023 – July 27, 2023
Breakfast- 8 AM to 9 AM; Lunch 11 AM to 1 PM

Blue Ridge High School: 2151 Fews Chapel Road, Greer
Meals Monday through Thursday: June 5, 2023 – July 27, 2023
Breakfast- 8 AM to 9 AM; Lunch 11 AM to 1 PM

Riverside High School: 794 Hammett Bridge Road, Greer
Meals Monday through Thursday: June 5, 2023 – July 27, 2023
Breakfast- 8 AM to 9 AM; Lunch 11 AM to 1 PM

Fountain Inn High School: 644 Quillen Avenue, Fountain Inn
Meals Monday through Thursday: June 5, 2023 – July 27, 2023
Breakfast- 8 AM to 9 AM; Lunch 11 AM to 1 PM

Bryson Middle School: 3657 South Industrial Drive, Simpsonville
Meals Monday through Thursday: June 5, 2023 – July 27, 2023
Breakfast- 8 AM to 9 AM; Lunch 11 AM to 1 PM

JL Mann High School: 160 Fairforest Way, Greenville
Meals Monday through Thursday: June 5, 2023 – July 27, 2023
Breakfast- 8 AM to 9 AM; Lunch 11 AM to 1 PM

Mauldin Middle School: 1190 Holland Road, Simpsonville 
Meals Monday through Thursday: June 5, 2023 – July 27, 2023
Breakfast- 8 AM to 9 AM; Lunch 11 AM to 1 PM

Carolina High School: 2725 Anderson Road, Greenville
Meals Monday through Thursday: June 5, 2023 – July 27, 2023
Breakfast- 8 AM to 9 AM; Lunch 11 AM to 1 PM

Greenville High Academy: 1 Vardry Street, Greenville  
Meals Monday through Thursday: June 5, 2023 – July 27, 2023
Breakfast- 8 AM to 9 AM; Lunch 11 AM to 1 PM

Woodmont High School: 2831 West Georgia Road, Piedmont
Meals Monday through Thursday: June 5, 2023 – July 27, 2023
Breakfast- 8 AM to 9 AM; Lunch 11 AM to 1 PM

Sterling School Charles Townes Center: 99 John McCarroll Way, Greenville
Meals Monday through Thursday: June 5, 2023 – July 27, 2023
Breakfast- 8 AM to 9 AM; Lunch 11 AM to 1 PM

Roper Mountain Science Center: 402 Roper Mountain Road, Greenville
Meals Monday through Saturday: June 3, 2023 – August 5, 2023
Lunch 11 AM to 1 PM

Roper Mountain Science Center will only be serving lunch, (no breakfast) which parents can locate at the food truck in the main parking lot. Parents will NOT need to purchase entry into RMSC in order to obtain their food.

Free Lunch Near Me: Spartanburg District Schools Summer Meals

Spartanburg School District One

Currently, Spartanburg School District 1 has not released plans for summer meals. We will update you once we have more information. 

Spartanburg School District Two

District 2 has not released updated information for 2023 for summer meal programs. We will update the information once available. In previous years, district two has offered meals at four locations, including:

Chesnee Elementary
Boiling Springs Middle
Boiling Springs High School
Shoally Creek Elementary

Spartanburg School District Three

For 2023, District 3 will be serving free breakfast and lunch meals for all children and teens under 18. Breakfast will be Monday through Friday from 7 AM – 8 AM. Lunch will be Monday through Friday from 11 AM – 12 PM. The location will be closed the week of July 3, 2023 – July 7, 2023.

Meals will be served at Clifdale Middle School– 451 Heritage Hills Drive, Spartanburg

Spartanburg School District Four

For 2023, Spartanburg District 4 will sponsor several locations in southern Spartanburg County for summer meals. Summer meals at schools will only be available for students who are enrolled there. Additional locations are available for children not enrolled in one of the schools. Those who pick up summer meals from the schools, Woodruff Leisure Center, or Kelly Acres will be ineligible to pick up 5-day meal kits.

If you have a child 18 years or younger who does not pick up meals from a meal site, 5-day meal kit distribution will be available. For more information, please contact Audry Terry at [email protected].

Woodruff Primary, Elementary, Middle, and High School-
Closed enrolled only for Summer meals. Meals will be available Monday- Thursday in June.

Woodruff Leisure Center- 550 Cavins Road, Woodruff, SC
Meals Monday through Friday: June 6, 2022, through August 5, 2022
Breakfast- 7:45 AM to 8:30 AM; Lunch 12 PM- 12:30 PM

Kelly Acres- 110 Miller Drive, Woodruff, SC
Meals Monday- Friday; June and July
Lunch- 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM

Spartanburg School District Five

Spartanburg District 5 has not updated plans for a 2023 summer meal program. We will update you once we know more. Please continue to check the Spartanburg District Five website for updates. 

In previous years, District 5 has offered a summer meal program at J. F. Byrnes High School from June – August.

Spartanburg School District Six

District 6 has not updated plans for a 2023 summer meal program. We will update you once we know more. Information and updates can be located on the Spartanburg District Six website. 

Spartanburg School District Seven

District 7 has not provided updated plans for summer meals for 2023. We will update you once we know more. Parents can locate updates on the Spartanburg District Seven Food Services website. 

Free Lunch Near Me: Pickens County Summer Meals

Information for the 2023 summer meal program for the School District of Pickens County has yet to be updated. We will update you once we have more information. In previous years, summer meals were provided at the locations below:

East End Elementary School
Pickens Elementary School
Liberty Primary School

Do you know of a place offering free food this summer to add to our list?

Think your child would like to visit Takeoff Mini Golf for a plane ride for their birthday? This is such a unique birthday party package sure to make any kid soar with delight.

Birthday parties give me anxiety. I’m not one of those moms that likes to plan them so when the opportunity comes along for a turnkey birthday party, count me in. Thankfully, a lot of businesses around the Upstate totally understand moms like me and have countless options for awesome birthday parties where parents have to do nothing but show up. Thank you to all of them!

But one birthday party package is extra special and that one is offered at super cool Takeoff Mini-Golf right next to Runway Park in downtown Greenville.

The Unique Birthday Party Package

Takeoff Mini Golf has three birthday party packages but if you have a kid who just loves airplanes, it’s the third birthday party package that you’ll want to surprise him or her with.

Included in this birthday package is the opportunity for the birthday child and two guests to take a Discovery Ride in a small plane with Greenville Aviation to see Greenville from the air, taking off and landing right there at the airport.

Yup, you get to fly around in a private plane with your birthday child for exceptional views of Greenville, Paris Mountain, and downtown. What a cool gift, right?!

That package includes 10 passes and ice cream treats, a gift for the birthday child, pavilion rental, decorations, and memories to last a lifetime. That fantastic birthday package costs $475.

One Kid’s Reaction

Takeoff Mini-Golf posted this great video about a birthday boy who got to go up in the air with the Discovery Flight. You can see his excitement!

Booking Your Birthday Party Flight Package

If you’d like to book your own Greenville Aviation Discovery Flight Birthday Package with Takeoff Mini-Golf, you can contact them directly at 864.263.3456 or via the Takeoff Mini-Golf website.

Greenville Aviation also offers a Discovery Flight standalone option starting at $144. That can be booked directly on the Greenville Aviation website.

If you’ve never heard of Kings Mountain State Park or maybe it’s crossed your radar and you want to learn more, we’ve got all the details on why this park is a history-lover’s paradise that also has lakes, hiking trails, and equestrian trails.

One day I was specifically searching out less-traveled hiking trails and state parks that I could take my kids to. Since my third grader is studying South Carolina state history, I was hoping to throw in a few places that could also serve as teaching lessons. Kings Mountain State Park fits both of those goals. 

A State Park and a National Park

Kings Mountain is the site of the Revolutionary War battle that took place on October 7, 1780. Thomas Jefferson called it “The turn of the tide of success.” It was the first major battle the Patriots won over the Loyalists since the British invaded Charleston in May of that year. So this was a big deal. It was also fought between Americans except for Patrick Ferguson, a British national, who led the Loyalists in the battle and ultimately perished on that day. 

The Kings Mountain State Park and the Kings Mountain National Military Park are right next to each other. Coming from Greenville up I85, I had to drive through the national park to get to the state park and was momentarily confused I had messed up directions somewhere. You also cross into North Carolina and then back into South Carolina to get to the park so I was sure I had went the wrong way. But I didn’t!

There is a visitors center at the National Military Park where you can watch a video about the battle and learn more about the history. It has artifacts and exhibits talking about the battle but it was closed when we went because of the pandemic. There are restrooms and an amphitheater for events there as well. 

Kings Mountain State Park

Kings Mountain State Park is one of the 47 South Carolina State Parks and one of 16 that the Civilian Conservation Corps had a hand in building during the Great Depression. It’s located a little over an hour from Greenville past Gaffney. 

The park has a really neat Living History Farm that shows that a Carolina farmstead may have looked like in the Upstate during the revolutionary era. There is a two-story farmhouse, barn, smokehouse, carpenter/blacksmith shop, sorghum mill and cooker, corncrib, and cotton gin. My kids loved checking out these structures and reading the informational stands along the way. 

There are events that highlight the farm and what it was like living there so be sure to check the website for updated information and dates. 

Kings Mountain State Park also has 20 miles of equestrian trails, a 1.2 mile nature trail, and 16-mile hiking loop of moderate difficulty. 

Two lakes are part of the state park and you can either rent canoes and kayaks or launch personal non-motorized boats for a small fee. You can fish in these lakes but no swimming is allowed. 

Picnic shelters, a playground, volleyball court, basketball court and ping pong table are available for use for guests when covid-19 restrictions are lifted. 

If you like to camp, that’s also available at Kings Mountain State Park. There are 15 equestrian campsites, 115 standard camping sites with electricity and water, and 10 tent sites without water and electricity. The park can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet as well. For groups of up to 30 people, the primitive camping site serves them well, as there is water and toilets nearby.

There is a small fee to enter the state park. If you have a State Park Passport, then it’s free.

Walk the Kings Mountain Battlefield

The Kings Mountain Battlefield Trail is located within the Kings Mountain National Military Park adjacent to the state park. There is no fee for the military park. 

The 1.5 mile battlefield trail is rubber-paved and takes you through the forest and along the ridge where the battle between the Loyalists and Patriots took place on October 7, 1780. It’s a foot traffic trail only except for motorized wheelchairs. You could take a stroller but you’d need to be careful because there are hills. 

I loved this trail and my kids really enjoyed the nature walk combined with the historical aspect. There are several information stands along the way that tell you what happened right where you are walking. There is even a phone number you can call for an audio tour.

There are several monuments along the way, including the Centennial Monument, U.S. Monument and Ferguson’s Grave. One of them looks identical to the Washington Monument except on a smaller scale. My kids were convinced it was a pencil. 

We all really enjoyed the trail and learning component. We even got to see where President Hoover stood to address a huge crowd of 70,000 in the forest to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the battle. And the trail is so peaceful and quiet despite what happened there more than 200 years ago.

Perfect for Field Trips

Kings Mountain National Military Park is ideal for field trips. They even have a curriculum filled with materials for learning (looking at you, homeschoolers) and a Traveling Trunk that has lesson plans, 18th century clothes, and games. I don’t think I’ve seen this kind of educational opportunity anywhere in the Upstate. If I’m missing those places, tell me in the comments!

I didn’t know about any of this until after I went to the battlefield but I do plan to return and check out some of these learning materials. I’m a big advocate of kids experiencing history rather than learning about it in books. You can do both, of course, but for me personally, I will remember something I learned if I went to see where it happened and saw artifacts or things from the place itself. I love those kinds of history lessons. 

Have you been to either Kings Mountain National Park or Kings Mountain State Park?

Kings Mountain State Park
1277 Park Road, Blacksburg, SC 

Kings Mountain National Military Park
2625 Park Road, Blacksburg, SC