Are you looking for the best place to camp in the Pisgah National Forest? We visited the Davidson River Campground near Brevard and think that you should consider it for your next camping trip! This campground offers not only hiking but also easy access to tubing.
The Davidson River Campground is located in the Pisgah National Forest (off 276) just outside Brevard, NC. It is about an hour and 15 minutes from Downtown Greenville, moments from major grocery stores and dining, and yet seems an entire forest world away.
Campers can enjoy wading in the knee-deep Davidson River, diving into the brisk swimming hole, hiking on beautiful mountain trails, tubing down the lazy waterway, fishing for trout, biking through the forest, or simply enjoying the quiet serenity found in the park’s many shaded campsites.
What to do at Pisgah National Forest
Throughout the summer and fall, the Pisgah National Forest offers many fun weekend events like firefly discovery, free s’mores, and bicycle parades – to name a few! Our family has had a blast camping at this wonderful getaway!
We have rented tubes (just up the road and just $5/tube!) and spent the afternoon on the river with our 4 and 5-year-olds, we’ve hiked the gorgeous North Slope Trail, played kickball in the camp field, and used our campsite as a launchpad for exploring the MANY accessible waterfalls in the area (including Sliding Rock and Looking Glass Falls – both just up the road).
How to Dress and Pack for Davidson River Campground
This region is actually home to a temperate rainforest, so expect cooler temperatures and some drizzly skies. Even on rainy afternoons, there is so much to do and explore like the Cradle of Forestry, the Ranger Station, and the Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education. Come prepared with ample shelter, rain jackets, water shoes, and extra towels – this campground is still sure to please.
What is Camping Like at Davidson River
There are 160 well-shaded and nicely spaced gravel campsites for tents and rv’s. Reservations are required during peak season. And same day walk-ups are allowed mid-November through mid-March.
Some of the sites have direct access to the river (others are a short bike/scooter/walk away), all have large picnic tables, fire rings, tent pads, and lantern poles. Some offer electric, but most do not. All are close to restroom and shower facilities. The campground also offers firewood, ice, and even a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Always an adventure, the Davidson River campground had my kids exclaiming, “This is the best day ever!”
You know those days when you are awakened by your kids at the crack of dawn and it’s raining or it’s too hot or too cold outside and there is just no way you are dealing with energetic little people in your house all day? Kangaroo Jax, an indoor bounce house complete with a ferris wheel, carousel, arcade games, and concessions can help you out. Read on to learn all about this new, indoor play place your kids will love!
About Kangaroo Jax
I first heard of Kangaroo Jax through a friend and honestly did not believe it to be as cool as she said. Kids can bounce around for as many hours as they like for one admission fee? And they can ride a carousel and ferris wheel for no extra charge?
This place does exist and it’s as neat as you’ve probably heard. Not only do they have an enormous space filled with things to help your kid get out energy, they also do birthday parties!
Admission Pricing
Monday through Friday, kids 2-12 are $12 each and Saturday and Sunday $15 each. There is no limit to how long your child can play. Kids up to 12 years old are welcome to play at Kangaroo Jax.
But what about the little kids? During the week, children ages 2-5 can play for just $9 from 10 am – 2 pm.
What about kids under the age of two? Can they come? Yes! There is actually an entire space at Kangaroo Jax dedicated to kids under four years old. As a parent of a child in this age range, I love this feature because it helps my peace of mind to know that no big kids will accidentally be knocking around my little one.
Kids under 1 are free with another paying child. If you don’t have another paying child, or if you have multiple children under 1 years old, you’ll have to pay $9 for at least one child.
Birthday Parties
A good birthday party is one where parents have little to no work to do and kids have all the fun. That’s the secret sauce at Kangaroo Jax. They do everything for parents, from setting up the room with balloons and table settings to ordering and serving the food, which comes with the Mega Party and Ultimate Party packages.
The baseline Jax’s Birthday Party includes 10 guests, 1 hour and 45 minutes of party room use, online invitations, paper goods and balloons, 2 pizza slices, and a soda or juice per paying child. This party package is $349 Friday – Sunday and $269 Monday – Thursday.
The Jax’s Mega Party includes all of the above in addition to two slices of pizza plus one soft drink per child and is $279 Friday – Sunday and $199 Monday – Thursday.
The Jax’s Ultimate Party includes all of the above plus party favors. This party is $380 Friday – Sunday and $299 Monday – Thursday.
Parents can add more than 10 children for a party to each package for an additional fee. If they want more pizza or extra balloons or extra drink pitchers, those options are available as well.
Parents can also bring your own birthday cake/cupcakes, your own goodie bags, fruit or veggie trays, individual bags of chips/pretzels, and additional decorations. No other outside food or drink is permitted. When the party is over, all of the guests are able to play on the main floor until closing time.
It’s recommended you book your date ahead of time, especially on weekends, since they tend to fill up fast.
Tips When You Go
I took my kids to Kangaroo Jax on a big school holiday so there were a lot of kids, but it never felt too crowded or overwhelming since the place is huge and there are lots of things to do. I love that this place is open on most school holidays and breaks (and even snow days) and all summer when the kids are out of school. It has gone straight to the top of my “things to do with kids” list.
One thing to note is that your kids will need socks, so be sure to bring them or have an extra pair or two in your car.
Also, fill out your waiver online to save time so when you get to Kangaroo Jax you won’t have anxious kids waiting to play!
Kangaroo Jax has concessions including pizza, pretzels, and even coffee, which makes it pretty easy to spend a good chunk of time there. The owners were insightful about the needs of families when they designed the place.
So when you need a break and the kids need a place to get out their enormous supply of energy, try Kangaroo Jax!
Kangaroo Jax 2437 Laurens Road, Greenville Monday-Thursday: 10 am – 6 pm Friday-Saturday: 10 am – 8 pm Sunday: 11 am – 6 pm 864.902.5297
What’s your child’s favorite thing to do at Kangaroo Jax?
Here’s everything you need to know about mouth ulcers in babies and kids. Find out how they look, what causes them and how they can be treated.
As new parents, it’s quite exciting to occasionally peek into your baby’s mouth to see if that tiny first tooth has erupted. After all, you can’t wait to capture that adorable toothy smile! However, sometimes you can be met with an unpleasant surprise, in the form of a mouth ulcer.
What are mouth ulcers?
Mouth ulcers are little sores that may appear anywhere in the mouth area, like lips, tongue, gums, inner cheeks or the roof of the mouth. Mouth ulcers affect both adults and children – studies have found that about 9% of children and 25% of young adults are affected. Most cases of mouth ulcers are seen in children between the ages of 10-19 years.
The most common form of mouth ulcers in children is canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers. Mouth ulcers may appear one at a time or in a cluster, and they may change in size and color. While most mouth ulcers are not contagious, sometimes they can be, if they’re part of an infection. Here’s everything you need to know about mouth ulcers in babies and kids, including symptoms, causes and treatment.
Signs of Mouth Ulcers In Babies and Kids
Signs of canker sores are similar in babies and kids, and usually look like these:
Appear small, and round with a yellowish-white tinge
May have a red border around them
Are about 1/4 inch in diameter
Appear alone or in clusters
Usually pop up inside the cheeks and lips
Are painful even when not eating or drinking
May cause tingling or burning before the sores actually appear
If the ulcer is due to trauma or an injury, the ulcer may start out as a small patch and grow into a bigger one. Fever is usually not a symptom unless the sores are due to an infection.
Mouth Ulcers v/s Cold Sores
Mouth ulcers or canker sores are not to be confused with cold sores. Cold sores are caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), also known as the cold sore virus. Unlike canker sores, cold sores are contagious, especially in the first few days of the infection.
Cold sores appear as painful white blisters around the cheeks, chin, lips and nose. These are accompanied by fever, fatigue and irritability. In babies, the virus can be serious and even fatal, especially in newborns.
Mouth Ulcers v/s Oral Thrush
Oral thrush is a common fungal infection seen in babies and young children, and it is different from mouth ulcers. Oral thrush appears as milky white patches on the tongue and inside the mouth. It may be accompanied by an infection in the diaper area and requires antifungal medication.
Reasons for Mouth Ulcers In Babies and Kids
In Babies:
In Kids:
Mouth injuries due to biting the tongue or inside of the cheek
Accidental injuries due to hard brushing
Toothpaste with irritating ingredients
Consumption of extremely hot foods
Food allergies
Vitamin deficiencies
Ill-fitting braces or improper fillings
Family history of canker sores
Hormonal fluctuations, which make girls more likely to get canker sores, especially before their period
Stress or anxiety
Chronic medical conditions like celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease
Side effects of certain medicines
In the majority of cases, mouth ulcers are non-serious, and often clear up on their own in a couple of weeks. However, they are quite painful, especially in the first few days, and can affect the child’s appetite and hydration. To make things easier for your child, here are a few home remedies you can try.
If you are bottle feeding, you may need to change the nipple to one that is very soft
If your baby can’t suck on the bottle at all, offer fluids by a spoon or syringe
Offer fluids in small doses, at frequent intervals to prevent dehydration
Let baby suck on something cold, like a clean cloth soaked in cold water
For babies who have started solids, avoid anything spicy or sour
Most teething remedies will also help relieve pain from mouth ulcers
In Kids:
Make sure your child stays hydrated, by drinking a variety of fluids
Cold drinks like milkshakes and slushies may offer more relief
If your child finds it painful to drink, let they try drinking through a straw
Offer soft foods like mashed potatoes, mushy oatmeal or well cooked pasta
Avoid hard or abrasive foods that can hurt, like chips, biscuits or toast
Stay away from salty, spicy and acidic foods like fruit juice, lemons and tomatoes
Opt for cold foods over hot meals
Avoid chewing gum or any food with too much sugar
Use a toothbrush with extra soft bristles
Choose a toothpaste that is free from sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS)
Extra Precautions for Cold Sores
If your child has been diagnosed with cold sores, you will need to ensure that it does not spread to other members of the family. Here are a few precautions to consider:
Do not touch the cold sores and ask them not to do so too
Avoid touching other parts of the body too, like around the eyes or nose
Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially if you happen to touch the sore
Have a separate set of utensils for the child to use while ill
Keep the child home from school till the sores have completely healed
Medical Treatment for Mouth Ulcers In Babies and Kids
If your child is in a lot of pain, you may administer some paracetamol. Always speak to the doctor first and follow the instructions regarding dosage.
Children over the age of 1 may also find relief with a liquid antacid like Milk of Magnesia. You can either spray a few drops on the affected area or apply it on with a cotton swab, after every meal. Avoid regular mouthwashes since they may be too harsh.
Mouth ulcers in babies and kids usually go away in two weeks’ time, but if they keep recurring, your doctor may need to run extra tests to see if there is any other underlying cause. See your doctor if your child exhibits any of the following symptoms:
Sores last longer than 3 weeks
Swollen, red and tender gums
Toothache
Bloody crusts on the lips
Swelling in the face
Large lymph node under the jaw
Signs of dehydration – dry mouth, no tears, dark urine or no urine in over 8 hours
You should also see the doctor if the sores have appeared after starting a new medication. It could be a reaction and require medical attention right away.
References:
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As a divorced person who runs a bunch of divorce women Facebook groups, I’ve heard so much about why different people divorce. There’s this idea in society that people divorce because “we live in a disposable generation” and “don’t take marriage seriously anymore” but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Most people who divorce do it because of irreconcilable differences. Divorce is such a pain that no one does it without thinking long and hard about it. Most people try couples’ counseling before they divorce to try to salvage it. But many marriages can’t and shouldn’t be salvaged. I know many people who got divorced who had many of the following reasons, not just one.
As for me? Marrying young is the biggest thing. More like marrying young before I went through enough therapy to figure out what the healthy choice for a marriage partner was. I never should have married my ex, he was wrong for me from the start in so many ways, but I was just so desperate to get married that I didn’t do the intelligent thing. But hey, at least now I have 4 wonderful kids from that marriage, so at least some good came of it.
If you’re considering divorce, something in your marriage is making you question everything. These are the factors that are leading you to doubt everything. It doesn’t matter what prompted you to check out the most frequent reasons individuals get divorced; there are a few surprise answers to your questions that are based on data.
Infidelity
One of the most prevalent causes of divorce is unfaithfulness, which may manifest as either physical or emotional cheating. One spouse may irrevocably damage trust and respect when they discover that the other has had an emotional or sexual relationship with someone else. Consequently, adultery used to be the second most common reason for divorce.
Lack of Communication
Having good communication skills is essential for every relationship to stay healthy. When communication in a marriage becomes strained or broken, it can lead to a multitude of problems. Open and honest communication may help you and your spouse work through any issues you’re facing, whether they’re personal or marital. If you have any differences of opinion, you are also free to talk about them. Problems that start as a consequence of a lack of communication may quickly become much bigger problems. When communication goes down, it usually doesn’t get back up to par enough to keep a relationship going.
Domestic Violence
According to divorcephoenixarizona.com, a prominent divorce lawyer Phoenix, “Domestic violence is a major cause of divorce. It may take various forms, including verbal, physical, sexual, emotional, and financial abuse. If they frequently abuse each other, one partner may develop or maintain dominance over the other in an abusive relationship.”
Not only may this kind of violence happen between spouses, but it can also affect any children born into the marriage. In case your children or yourself are in urgent danger, call 911 without delay.
Addiction
Numerous successful people in various industries were able to keep their addictions a secret while they rose to the top of their careers. Addiction comes in numerous forms and severity levels; nonetheless, many people with addiction have managed to maintain successful jobs.
They may be in complete denial about their partner’s addiction, willing to turn a blind eye in return for material or social benefits, or even gaslighted into thinking they’re crazy for suspecting addiction. No matter how it arrives, the moment of truth is always heartbreaking.
Marrying Too Young
Change and progress are inevitable, but relationships may suffer when partners fail to progress in tandem.
If you tied the knot at an early age, it might be because you haven’t fully formed your personality yet.
There are several signs that you and your spouse may be drifting apart, including having different life goals, having no interests in common, and feeling lonely or alone.
Financial Problems
A partner who overspends or struggles to meet financial obligations can cause stress in a marriage.
If your spouse keeps asking you for money, it might mean they can’t take accountability for their financial situation.
Unresolved financial concerns are among the leading causes of divorce.
Lack of Commitment
A successful marriage requires the undivided attention of both partners. However, the definition of commitment can vary from person to person. For instance, one partner may think commitment means spending all the time together, while the other values quality time alone or with the other. Partners may also disagree on how much time, energy, money, and other resources to invest in the marriage. When problems come up, one partner may feel like the other isn’t as invested in finding a solution. This imbalance in commitment, whether real or perceived, can be draining.
Differences in Religion
Pew Research found that 69 percent of married people feel their partner shares their religious views. Faith is not required for married partners, but it does increase the likelihood that their other values are compatible. As a result, the couple is more likely to agree to weekly religious attendance, to agree on how to raise their children, and to reap other practical benefits.
Marriage is typically less enjoyable for individuals who do not share a religious conviction; When couples marry without being clear about their religious beliefs, or if those views change over time, the chance of divorce increases.
Inequality
If one partner in a marriage puts their needs above those of the other, leading to a power imbalance, then the marriage is unequal. The most common way in which inequity impacts marriages is when responsibilities like childrearing and housework are not divided up as evenly and fairly as they should be.
As a generation, we were led to believe that we could “have it all,” including a fulfilling career, the joys of motherhood, a lovely home that was always spotless, and a happy marriage. Truthfully, however, many have learned the hard way that it’s impossible to have it all—at least not simultaneously—and certainly not without a partner who is understanding and helps out around the house and with the kids’ chores.
I have a loved one currently pregnant with her 4th baby. But while this is not her first, there is a big break between this one and her previous kids, which means that she probably needs nearly as many things as a new mom would. But I don’t have unlimited resources to spend on gifting.
Yes, monogrammed baby gifts are really cute and can become a precious keepsake if you make sure it doesn’t get stained… but gifts don’t have to be pricey to be very appreciated.
With frugal gifts for frugal parents, it is very important that you actually talk to the recipient and see what types of things they want or need, if they are open to second hand items, what they plan on doing once the baby is born, etc… Because giving a gift that someone doesn’t want, no matter how cheap, isn’t frugal if it just goes to waste.
Frugal Baby Gifts for the Frugal Parent
Physical Gifts
Entire Wardrobes
…In fact, the most appreciated baby gifts I got were hand me downs. Give me tote bags full of used clothing for my baby and I’ll appreciate them much more than an individual brand new outfit or two. Babies have so many diaper blow outs and spit ups and food smeared on their clothes that you end up needing many more outfits than you’d think, so this is one area where quantity is absolutely more important than quality. You have to know your recipient though and if they’d appreciate this. If you don’t have any specific hand me downs to give, either because your kids are older and you already gave yours away, or because you don’t have kids of your own, you can go to thrift stores or garage sales, etc… and buy a bunch of baby outfits and gift an entire wardrobe for not more than the cost of a few new outfits.
Diapers
Since I cloth diapered for money saving reasons, I had a friend who sewed me homemade cloth diapers that were really helpful and appreciated. If you know a friend wants to cloth diaper and you are good at sewing, you can sew some and gift them, or you can ask them what type they want and gift them cloth diapers. Is it the cheapest gift? Not necessarily, since the cost is a lot up front, especially if you aren’t just using prefolds and covers, but it is something that will certainly help the parent save money, not to mention the environment. Additionally, if you know the mother is frugal minded and would be ok with second hand, you can buy sets of second hand cloth diapers, which is a big savings.
Of course, cloth diapering is, by far, not for everyone. (I gave up on it by my third kid.) But the price of diapers can be expensive, not to mention it being a pain to need to go out and buy diapers all the time. Many people find it cheapest to buy diapers in bulk, and there are many diaper subscription services that mail them to your door. If you have Amazon Prime, there are many affordable diaper options that you can get sent to them with free delivery. Check with mom first, though, because she might want a specific diaper brand only.
Baby Equipment and Accessories
Have you noticed a trend here? Second hand for the win! Scour online sites and stores for used equipment and toys. The cost of these add up a lot if you buy them new, but they are life savers for moms. You often can get ones that are very lightly used and in terrific condition. Avoid second hand car seats, though, because those can have safety concerns.
Accessories and equipment you might want to look for, that mom needs or will find helpful:
Stroller
Swing
Baby gym/playmat
Bouncer
Baby monitor
High chair
Nursing Help
Nursing can save a ton of money. If you know that mom plans on nursing, especially if she works out of the house, a breast pump can be extremely useful, allowing mom to provide milk for her baby instead of buying formula, even when she isn’t there to nurse the kiddo. There are many breast pumps on the market these days, some with pretty decent costs. If you search google for suggestions of best pumps for the money, you’ll get some good ideas for suggestions. You can also buy used breast pumps, but you will need new tubing, valves, and phyllanges.
A spare freezer can be extremely useful for a pumping mom, and you can find some for sale very affordably. If mom would appreciate and has room for a spare freezer, this is a terrific and affordable useful gift for the new mom. And once the baby gets older and she no longer pumps, she can keep using it for other ways to save money, like meal prep and stocking up on sales.
Nursing pillows and rocking chairs can also be terrific tools that aid in nursing, and they also can be purchased second hand for low prices.
Gifts of Time
Yes, actual physical things you can hold make great gifts, but you know what else makes a great gift? Things that save the new parent time and energy.
Food.
One of the hardest things post birth is finding the energy to shop, figure out what to make, meal prep, and cook. To help this out, arrange a meal train so they get fresh food for the first little bit home from the hospital, and then as a gift, fill their freezer with a bunch of pop in the oven meals for when they don’t have the energy to cook.
Babysitting.
If the new mom actually has other children, offer to take those children out, so that mom can sleep when the baby sleeps instead of being kept up by her other children. If the baby takes bottles, either of formula or pumped milk, you can take the baby even for a few hours, so mom can get some rest, do some non mommy things so she can feel like a human, etc… My kids refused bottles, even of pumped milk, so an actual babysitter wouldn’t have been helpful. But just someone to come over and hold and entertain the baby so I could take a shower without having to worry about needing to run out for a screaming baby would have been greatly appreciated.
Photography
Ok, this isn’t cheap, unless you’re a photographer… but getting baby pictures so that mom has a record of what the baby looked like when they were very young is a wonderful and appreciated gift. But some parents take good enough pictures on their own… but many don’t get around to actually printing the pictures. So taking nice pictures of the baby and getting them printed and framed is a great way to do that frugally.
Alternatively, they sell milestone blankets and cards to photograph the baby with on a monthly basis so you can see how they grow. These blankets and cards are a relatively inexpensive gift. But if you’re crafty, you can even make these on your own.
Massage
A touched out mama might not want to be massaged, but other mothers might be craving some pampering. Book mama a massage once she is able to leave the baby for a bit, and let her just relax. Massage students often need someone to practice on before they get their certification, so that is a more frugal alternative.
Gifting is a really nice way to show your love to someone. But it doesn’t need to break the bank. With the right gifting, you can even help the family save money over time. Happy gifting and congrats!
When I was a teen and internet was first becoming popular, we were warned by our parents not to meet people online, that they could be pedophiles protending to be kids, or murderers pretending to be who they are not, so they can trap us and hurt us. So we learned not to share any personal information and/or to lie about our location, etc… if we did talk to strangers. And we learned that if we met anyone from online, it had to be in a public and safe place.
But in today’s world, there are even more concerns that become an issue with our kids being online. Forget about meeting strangers, we also need to worry about the concern about cyberbullying, kids getting scammed out of lots of money (have you read about the massive issues with Roblox???), getting access to information that our children shouldn’t be seeing… with all that, it can be easy to forget to also teach your kids about avoiding online scams and phishing attempts… but that’s no less important.
Here’s why you should teach them about these, and how you can do so.
In today’s digital age, teaching kids about recognizing and avoiding online scams and phishing attempts is more crucial than ever. With the increasing prevalence of online threats, children are vulnerable targets for cybercriminals seeking to exploit their innocence and naivety.
As parents and caregivers, we must equip our children with the knowledge and skills to navigate the online world safely. In this guide, we’ll explore effective strategies, including the use of tools like the website blocker and parental control mSpy, for how to teach kids about scams, empowering them to protect themselves and stay safe online.
Effective Teaching Strategies about Scams and Phishing Attacks
As this is a serious issue today, let’s not waste any time with pleasantries and get straight to the compelling tactic of teaching children about scams and phishing attacks.
Start with the Basics
Start by giving them the phishing definition for kids. Don’t get too technical; children quickly get bored with overly complex explanations. Simplify the topic and help them understand why scammers target them and the potential consequences of falling victim to a scam attempt.
Use Real-Life Examples
The teaching process for how to prevent phishing is most effective when you use real-life examples. If you choose an incident they know about, they can relate to it better. Remember to highlight the aftermath of a scam to convey the severity of the situation.
Highlight the Common Warning Signs
Make sure to emphasize some common warning signs to recognize scams. Stress that they shouldn’t share their personal information with anyone, even if they know them personally. Remind them never to click suspicious links or attachments in emails or messages.
Protect Personal Information
Instill a habit in your children so they don’t give out their personal information without a second thought. Remind them that even if a website appears legitimate, it could be a front for a phishing or scamming attempt.
Create Strong Passwords
Creating strong passwords is crucial for implementing preventing phishing attacks best practices, and securing your online accounts.
Can Parental Control Apps Help You Prevent Phishing?
As a parent, you must act as a guardian angel and protect them without directly getting involved. Luckily, parental control apps are just the right tools for the job. With most paid parental control tools, you can access standard features to protect your children from scams and phishing attacks. We recommend using mSpy as it offers everything you might need to keep your children safe.
Let’s look at some features that show you how to prevent phishing for your child’s safety.
Content Filtering
The most likely scenario of your child becoming a victim of a phishing attack is if they visit a shady website. Using content filtering, you can restrict their access to inappropriate sites and prevent any hacker from gaining access to their credentials.
Safe Browsing Mode
You can enable safe browsing mode if you prefer not to filter specific sites. This intelligent feature of the parental control app detects suspicious sites and prevents access. It’s an excellent solution for the question “How to prevent phishing?”
Download Restrictions
Sometimes, attacks don’t occur while visiting websites but through downloading unprotected files, such as those children may obtain from the Internet. mSpy and similar tools can be set up to confirm and authorize downloads.
Finishing Up
Despite all the foresight, many adults fall victim to scams and phishing attacks. With the knowledge you gained here and the assistance of tools like mSpy, you now know how to protect yourself from phishing and teach your children about it.
I have been an avid reader since I was a child- I read my first chapter book, a Nancy Drew mystery, on a camping trip when I was in second grade, and I never looked back. I’ve tried to inculcate in my children a love of reading, but unfortunately I wasn’t successful with all of them. One of them has a voracious appetite for books like I do, one is starting to enjoy certain series and wants more of them, and the other two are underwhelmed by reading and would prefer doing other things.
One way I tried to get my kids to love reading, as well as connecting with them and helping them transition to bed, was reading to my children, or sometimes playing e-books for them. In addition to shorter bedtime books when the kids were younger, we got into chapter books and we read Ozma of Oz, Into the Land of the Unicorns, The BFG, Alcatraz and the Evil Librarians, and a few more. I bought a big bean bag that we could cuddle on and read together before bed. Unfortunately, I wasn’t consistent enough about it, my kids are older, and that time is over, and I miss it.
Reading your kids bedtime stories is a wonderful thing. Read on to see why it is so good.
Bedtime stories have long been a cherished tradition, offering parents and children a special time to connect before sleep. These moments are more than just a nightly ritual; they play a crucial role in a child’s overall development. From language acquisition to emotional growth, short bedtime stories provide numerous benefits during a child’s early years.
For parents on a budget, maintaining a bedtime story routine can be challenging. Many parents find themselves too exhausted at the end of the day to consistently read to their children. This is where modern technology can be a great help. Free AI tools that create personalized 5 minute bedtime stories in seconds can make it easy and affordable to integrate storytelling into your nightly routine.
Cognitive Development
Storytelling is a powerful tool for cognitive development, encouraging imagination and creativity. When children listen to stories, they visualize characters and settings, which enhances their imaginative abilities. This mental exercise strengthens their capacity for creative and abstract thinking.
Understanding the structure of bedtime stories helps children grasp narrative sequencing and organization. This foundational skill is essential for reading comprehension and critical thinking later in life. Short bedtime stories that incorporate educational themes can introduce basic concepts like numbers, colors, and shapes in an engaging and memorable way.
Language Development
Reading bedtime stories significantly enhances a child’s language development. Babies and toddlers are at a critical stage for language learning. Exposure to varied vocabulary and sentence structures helps them develop their linguistic skills. Listening to stories allows children to hear and understand new words, which improves their language comprehension and expressive abilities.
For toddlers, it’s not just about hearing words but understanding how to use them in context. Repetition of words and phrases in stories reinforces their learning, making 5 minute bedtime stories an essential part of their language development process.
Emotional and Social Skills
Bedtime stories play a vital role in emotional and social development. Through stories, children learn about different emotions and how to handle them. They see characters interact, face challenges, and resolve conflicts, which helps them understand their own feelings and navigate social situations.
For young children, the predictability of a bedtime story routine provides comfort and security. This regularity helps them feel safe and loved, which is crucial for their emotional health. Stories with characters who overcome obstacles can also teach children about resilience and problem-solving.
Sleep and Relaxation
Bedtime stories are an effective tool for helping children transition from the activities of the day to a state of relaxation. Reading together creates a calming environment, signaling to the child that it’s time to wind down. This ritual can help establish a consistent bedtime routine, which is important for developing healthy sleep habits.
The soothing nature of a parent’s voice during storytime can have a relaxing effect, reducing stress and anxiety for both the child and the parent. This calming routine is particularly beneficial for toddlers, who often struggle to unwind at the end of the day.
Modern Solutions for Busy Parents
Incorporating bedtime stories into your child’s nightly routine can be challenging, especially with the demands of modern life. Free AI-powered apps like Sleepytales, which create personalized short bedtime stories, make bedtime storytelling easy and engaging. With a variety of themes and the ability to include your child’s name and favorite characters, these tools ensure that every night is special.
Such apps allow parents to generate unique stories each night without the need to come up with new ideas, providing a valuable solution for those who are too tired at the end of the day to read to their kids. By using these technologies, parents can ensure that their children still receive the many benefits of bedtime stories, even on the busiest days.
Conclusion
Bedtime stories are more than just a pleasant bedtime ritual; they are a fundamental part of a child’s development. They enhance language skills, foster emotional and social growth, stimulate cognitive development, and promote better sleep. For parents on a budget looking to maintain this valuable tradition amidst the demands of daily life, AI tools like Sleepytales, which create personalized bedtime stories for free, offer the perfect solution. These tools help keep the magic of storytelling alive, ensuring that every child can experience the joy and benefits of a good bedtime story.
Yes, I know, it’s super pale. But I promise you, it has more flavor than many other colorfully seasoned fish dishes.
One of the cheapest animal proteins we have available locally is a type of tilapia called blue tilapia. And while it doesn’t taste offensive at all, I find it just tastes very blah. I’ll eat it because it’s cheap, and sometimes I even get it gifted for free, but I don’t find it appealing, so I generally eat it just because it’s nourishment, and nothing else. I realize it just mostly has just a very boring and bland flavor, and just tastes like “fish” which isn’t something I really want to be eating. The same seasoning I’ve used for other fish doesn’t seem to do enough for this type of fish.
However, I know many people use this fish regularly and enjoy it, and I’ve often enjoyed it at other people’s homes. I knew there must be some trick I was missing, so I turned to some friends and asked them for suggestions and I wasn’t disappointed. Basically, the trick is- something acidic, and really strongly flavored to overcome the blahness. (Which is why Asian style seasoning, cajun seasoning, Mexican style with chili powder, etc… and batter fried just didn’t do it for me.)
This recipe is the simplest method I’ve used for this type of fish that the food comes out tasting scrumptious. When I made it for my family I had to ration how much each person could have, because I wasn’t expecting it to be that popular. While I use blue tilapia, you can use any type of white fish fillet for this, I’m absolutely certain. I think it is preferable to use stuff with skin, because it helps it hold together better when flipping, but not required.
You can lightly flour the fish before you cook it, but I didn’t bother, and I have no regrets.
This recipe is not only gluten free, it is also allergy friendly, as long as you aren’t allergic to fish or dairy, and low carb, so it’s good for lots of diets.
I’ve got a few more fish recipes coming right up! Can’t wait to share.
Lemon Butter Tilapia Recipe — Gluten Free and Easy
5-10 Capers (optional) Salt to taste Garlic powder to taste Pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Pat dry your tilapia until fully dried.
2. Rub salt, pepper, and garlic powder onto your tilapia. No specific measurements, just eyeball it.
3. Heat up some oil in your frying pan on medium heat.
4. When hot, gently lay down your fish, skin side down, a few pieces at a time, and let cook for a few minutes, and until you see the edges get crisped.
5. Flip over with a spatula, making sure to keep the fish whole. Cook for a minute or so more.
6. Remove from pan and repeat with the rest of the fish.
7. Lower the temperature to a small flame.
8. Add chopped capers, if using, to the pan. Add the butter until melted.
9. Mix in the lemon juice.
10. Add salt and pepper to taste.
11. Lay out your fish in a single layer, and pour over your fish. Let it sit for a few minutes so the fish gets fully saturated with flavor.
Enjoy!
What is your favorite way to eat bland fish? Does this look like a recipe you’d try?
Have you visited Lake Robinson in Greer, SC? The J. Verne Smith Park offers gorgeous views of the lake and mountains in the distance. You can fish, boat, picnic, or just enjoy some quiet time at this park. Read on for the details.
Summer is here bringing forth all its outdoor adventures. Playgrounds, games, and trips to the splash pads abound. But if you’re looking for something a little quieter, a bit more nature and little less crowded, consider a visit to J. Verne Smith Park at the tip of Lake Robinson.
Lake Robinson is owned by Greer CPW and serves as an impoundment for drinking water. It’s a popular lake for small boats and fishing, but the park area itself seems to be rarely populated with more than a handful of people. It does not have playground facilities, yet with plenty of picnic sites, beautiful views and several small docks and a fishing pier to explore, this park should not be an overlooked outdoor destination.
Things to Do at J. Verne Smith Park
Lake Robinson is, in fact, one of my family’s favorite locations for a quiet picnic. The park’s location has a million-dollar view, and is just steps from the parking lot. This makes J. Verne Smith Park a uniquely easy destination for those with young children or mobility-impaired individuals to enjoy the beautiful views this foothills area can provide. The park has many picnic tables and ample large shade trees where guests can spread picnic blankets facing the water.
Consider bringing some sidewalk chalk for after your picnic, as there are many paved walking areas to roam. My children enjoy bringing sketching materials and watercolor pencils to try and draw bits of the view they are enjoying. We like to bring books to read quietly or out loud together (this is a great place for us to do a bit of homeschool work outside the house). And sometimes we bring Frisbees, balls, jacks, and other outside toys. Tip: The park is on a hill, sloped towards the water. It definitely won’t work as a soccer field, but is fine for young children tossing a ball back and forth.
The lake edge of the park is rimmed with large rocks (perfect for keeping a runaway ball from rolling into the water). You cannot wade or swim here. But you can walk the paved pathways, sit out on the small docks and watch the boats, or stroll out along the fishing pier and see what creatures you can spot in the water. If you plan to fish, you’ll need to make sure you obtain the proper permit. You can obtain permits at Greer CPW Warden’s Office on-site.
You can even grab a cup of coffee at nearby Scandi Tiny!
This park has a boat launch with plenty of parking, and is also a great place to put in kayaks or paddleboards. Our family loves to paddle here. You will need a permit from the warden’s office. They can be purchased for day use or annually.
Things to Know
Verne Smith has a large raised picnic shelter with a fantastic view, which can be rented from Greer CPW for $300 per day, and a smaller shelter area also with a nice view, that can be rented for $150 a day.
Restroom facilities are located at the larger shelter.
The park is open sunrise to sunset. No skateboards, roller blades, or bikes are allowed on the walking paths, so it is best to leave those at home.
Park address: 2544 Mays Bridge Rd, Greer, SC 29651
There is a lot of pride in my neuroqueer family. I call us a rainbow family because we represent so many different sexual identities and gender expressions, all knit together with love. I am proud to be part of such an amazing patchwork of people who understand that family is what you make it, and love is love.
There is also lots of neurodivergent pride in my family. And this Pride Month, I am thinking a lot about the layers of complexity that families like mine experience because we’re neurodivergent and members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community.
Even as a queer parent with ADHD myself, parenting in the age of enlightenment regarding identity can sometimes feel like an extreme sport. It’s admittedly hard to keep up with the changing ways we talk about gender, sexual orientation, neurodivergence, and other aspects of identity. Amid all this, one thing remains clear: Our ADHD and LGBT+ kids need us to fight even harder for their right to be seen, heard, and respected.
Fighting for LGBTQ+ Rights, Neurodivergent Style
The upside is that the fighting comes naturally to neurodivergent individuals. We know what it’s like to be on the fringes of society and experience stigma. We know what it’s like to mask parts of our identity to try to be accepted.
Our neurodivergent qualities also uniquely equip us to fight. Due to our strong sense of justice, it’s not a stretch to say that we’re likely to be on the front lines of equality movements. Our justice sensitivity is no doubt driven by rejection sensitive dysphoria – one of the most brutal aspects of living with ADHD. At the same time, feeling rejection to the extreme – in the form of homophobia, transphobia, and other forms of hate – can truly make life feel not worth living.
As the mom of two gender-creative ADHD kids, I would do anything to protect them from this fate. Which is why I know that the best thing I can do is let my children see me fighting for them. At marches. At school. At the town hall. And yes, in the workplace.
As I write this, I am involved in a dispute at work, where grumbles and complaints about respecting people’s pronouns and gender identities happen near daily, despite company policies dictating that no discrimination of any kind is tolerated. What makes this situation scarier is the fact that my organization works with children, many of whom are gender non-conforming. In time, I hope my colleagues learn that using correct pronouns is lifesaving, especially for youth.
LGBTQ+ Joy Matters, Too
Fighting, however, is just one aspect of being part of the queer community. The other aspect — my favorite — is celebration. For Pride Month, we gather in our brightest clothes and most fabulous makeup. We have parades, we play music, and we dance in the streets. (ADHD creativity and spontaneity certainly help!) We are together. We see that we are not alone.
Another incredibly fun activity we do as a family is attend all-ages drag shows. The support for LGBTQ+ youth in these shows is unbelievable, like nothing you’ve ever seen. At every show, I take a moment to look around the room and see other rainbow families. I feel such pride in being part of a vibrant, creative, and bold community.
Yes, the fight matters. Celebrating, living, and thriving – as a queer parent with ADHD – is part of the fight. It’s what neurodivergent and queer youth need to witness so they know it’s possible for themselves.
Neuroqueer Families: Next Steps
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Want to get on the water at Lake Jocassee, a paradise only an hour from Greenville, SC? Eclectic Sun is the way to go!
Thank you to Eclectic Sun for providing us with paddleboards and kayaks for an amazing day on the water so we could write this review.
I’ve personally been a huge fan of Lake Jocassee for many years due to its unmatchable beauty and its ability to take me to a place of peace and serenity. In fact, my very first time at Lake Jocassee was when I rented a tandem kayak from Eclectic Sun when my youngest daughter was nearly three years old. That was all it took for me to be completely hooked on kayaking. I also ruined myself because I did it first at Lake Jocassee and no other place has since compared to experiencing the paradise that is that very special lake.
So began my adventures with my daughters on the water and they haven’t stopped since, seven years later. Going to Devils Fork State Park is always a blast but paddling around the lake is a whole other experience than hanging out on the shoreline. And if you want to get out on the lake, Eclectic Sun has all you need to do so.
There are places you can only get to on the lake by boat like fun islands, coves, and waterfalls. I have kayaked to bigger waterfalls but I honestly would not recommend it because it’s very, very far. There is a small waterfall you can paddle to from the put-in point at Eclectic Sun but it’s a bit of a ways. If you really want to see waterfalls, rent a pontoon boat. That’s absolutely the way to go see the majestic waterfalls and swim at them!
But kayaking and paddleboarding on the lake is a lot of fun. You can stop at coves and beaches (if the water level is low enough) and paddle out to a fun island to chill and eat your lunch.
There is a really fun cove you can paddle to behind the campground where kids – and adults (not me because I don’t do jumping from heights) – love to jump off a huge rock. There is sometimes a rope swing there as well.
In that same area, there are a couple of small beaches and the water is shallow so you can easily jump out and just enjoy the soft sand and swim around.
Stopping at a little cove while paddling at Lake Jocassee
Rentals Available at Lake Jocassee
There are lots of things to rent at Eclectic Sun to get you out on the water, like:
Canoes
Paddleboards (both hard boards and inflatables)
Tandem kayaks (that can fit two people)
Single kayaks
If you plan to stay on the shoreline, you can also rent umbrellas, beach chairs, and tubes.
I do have my own paddleboards and frequently take them out to Lake Jocassee but I have forgotten the absolute ease and stress-free emotions that come with showing up at the park and renting equipment without having to pack it all in my car, get it to the park, inflate the boards, paddle around, carry the boards out of the water, deflate the boards, get them back in the car, get them home, unload the boards and put them away.
Renting is super easy, like a million times easier than owning your own equipment! Plus, it was a lot of fun to try out different boards and kayaks that I don’t have. And everything we rented was in absolute perfect condition. All we did was check in, get our paddles and life jackets, and walk to the water. Eclectic Sun staff had the equipment ready to go and then got it out of the water when we came back.
Tandem kayak from Eclectic Sun
And there is no skimping on equipment at Eclectic Sun. They have some of the very best paddleboards and kayaks on the market. I’m familiar with their inflatable boards because one of my family members purchased them used from Eclectic Sun several summers ago for a really good price and they’ve held up really great. And after a Google search of the hard paddleboards we used, they aren’t cheap. I also owned a Perception tandem kayak, the same kayaks they use for rentals, and they are fantastic boats.
Choosing Your Time on the Rentals
Eclectic Sun lets you rent boards for two hours, four hours, all day, and overnight. I’d suggest no less than four hours to start because you’ll want to paddle around and enjoy all the coves and jumping rocks. Time in paradise goes quickly!
If you want to paddle to the waterfall on the left side of the lake, you’ll need at least four hours to do so. And if you’re staying overnight at the campground, you can easily rent as much as equipment from Eclectic Sun as you need.
Included in your rental are life jackets, paddles, and dry bags. They will also hold onto your keys for you so you don’t accidentally lose them in the lake.
Using the nice kayak from Eclectic Sun
Pontoon Boats
An absolute dream of mine is to rent a pontoon boat and spend all day at Lake Jocassee swimming and seeing all the waterfalls. It’s one of those things on my bucket list that I have yet to check off.
Luckily for me, and all of you who have the same idea, Eclectic Sun rents not only pontoon boats but also captains! I’m not terribly comfortable driving a pontoon boat so it made me happy to know that Eclectic Sun has captains that will take you out all day on their beautiful pontoon boats. They also offer waterfall tours.
Tips on Enjoying Your Eclectic Sun Rentals
Here are a few tips to have an awesome day out on the lake:
Reserve your rentals ahead of time, especially on weekends and holidays over the summer. The lake is very popular and it’s best to plan ahead.
Get to Devils Fork State Park at least thirty minutes ahead of your rental time. You’ll encounter a line to get into the park on weekends and you will need that time to put on sunscreen and sign waivers.
Bring a lot of sunscreen and water. Don’t get burned or dehydrated! A hat is also a great accessory for paddleboarding and kayaking.
Bring a lunch. I always bring food while paddling because it’s exhausting and I have kids who want to eat all the time.
Go on a weekday. If you can go to Lake Jocassee on a weekday, it’s so much less crowded than on weekends. It’s quieter and easier to navigate.
Rent in the morning. Lake Jocassee is famous for their afternoon storms. You really don’t want to be caught in those so if you can paddle in the mornings, you have a better chance of avoiding the storms. They come up fast and paying attention to the weather is always a smart thing to do there.
You do need to pay park admission. Your rental rate doesn’t include park admission, which is $8/adult, $4/kids ages 6-15. If you have a SC State Parks Pass, admission is free. We highly recommend this pass as it has saved us hundreds of dollars a year in entrance fees.
No experience required. Don’t worry if you’ve never paddleboarded or kayaked before. It’s not hard whatsoever and you’ll have fun.
If you want to buy their equipment, they usually have an end-of-season sale. They usually offer some of their equipment at the end of the season in the fall for really cheap prices. If you’re looking for a good deal, stay tuned to their social media pages that time of year.
Eclectic Sun also has a great FAQ section on their website that pretty much answers all the questions you can think of.
Honest Mom Review of Eclectic Sun
Lake Jocassee is one of my most favorite places on the planet. This is not an exaggeration. I absolutely love this place and choose to spend as much time as possible here.
Our day renting boats and boards from Eclectic Sun was even better than usual because I really didn’t have to do a thing in order to go paddle and enjoy the lake. The staff was so awesome and gave us directions on where to go and what to see and the process was so smooth from checking in to getting in the water.
Jumping into the lake from an island we kayaked to
My mom friend who came with us had never paddleboarded before and she said “this is so easy!”. So there ya go. You need zero experience to do this and have fun.
And this isn’t an outrageously expensive activity for a family. If you’re a family of four, it will cost you $100 to rent two tandem kayaks for four hours. Bring a picnic, spend the day and make fantastic memories.
The only regret you’re going to have this summer is if you don’t get out to Lake Jocassee and paddle around for a few hours with your family. You very well may have a new obsession after you do!
What do school grades measure? Are they a reflection of a student’s ability to memorize facts? Do they validate discipline and hard work? Why do so many people over emphasize them?
Over the years, I have seen parents focus so much on their child’s accomplishments. When class projects are presented at school, I am amazed how many are obviously not completed by the student. The writing is advanced and the complexity of the physical project is not on par with the current grade level.
My daughter’s middle school starting pushing college in middle school. (Shutterstock: ABO PHOTOGRAPHY)
My children’s school work should be their own
I was surprised to see these advanced projects at the elementary school level. Yes, I gave my kids ideas and constructive criticism but never took over. It was their project, not mine. It is their accomplishment and they deserved the accolades. I didn’t get an award for their hard work. Nor do I get a parenting award for raising a child who can excel in school.
Social media has made it easier to tell the world that your child is on the Dean’s List or achieved a perfect report card along with a picture of the evidence. I’ve also been involved in countless casual conversations where a parent tells me that their child has all A’s or gives me their current grade point average.
The interesting thing about these revelations is that most often we weren’t talking about school but somehow they throw in that piece of information. I nod my head but don’t share what my children’s grades are. I walk away shaking my head thinking, “why did they feel the need to share this information with me?”
I never felt the need to publicize my daughter’s accomplishments
One of my children was hyper focused on learning. She was “smart,” a perfectionist, and high strung, quite a combination. She excelled. I didn’t feel the need to advertise her accomplishments via social media or the annual holiday card greeting.
She earned those credentials herself but she is so much more than her accomplishments at school. She is kind, warm-hearted, compassionate, hardworking, and sarcastic. Surprisingly, before leaving for college she asked, “why do college grades matter?” I was surprised but knew she wouldn’t settle once she got to college and she didn’t.
My middle child was different. It took her a lot longer to learn to read and math concepts were too abstract for her to grasp. She did all right in school but never received any certificates of achievement or academic awards.
My Child’s School start pushing college very early
The schools started pushing college in her sixth-grade year. There was a “wear a college jersey day” and a field trip to tour a college. The teachers and staff were telling students to think about what schools they may want to apply to. These kids were eleven years old. What happened to letting them be kids?
Her high school years were tough. She wasn’t in accelerated classes. College, college, college was all everyone spoke about. Oh, and grade point averages. My kid has a 4.0, mine has a 4.5, or mine has a 4.8. I tried to ignore all of it. I watched her grades to ensure she was completing assignments and not falling behind but didn’t do the work for her.
My daughter’s school was inflating her grades
Towards the end of every quarter, she would have a “C” or “D” but somehow ended up with a “B” and sometimes an “A.” This trend kept increasing. Finally, during her senior year, I spoke up during a meeting with school administrators, teachers, and advisors I said, “you are inflating her grades and it is not doing her any favors. She now thinks she is more capable than she is.”
I was met with stares. No one said a word. She is also a great person filled with empathy, compassion, kindness, and loyalty. These are not the things she was graded on in school but are essential elements of a successful human being.
At the same time, I had an elementary school child. She was quiet and worked hard. Always trying to please her teachers. I told her to do her best and remember to be kind and respectful to everyone. If she made mistakes that is all right, it’s how we learn. This girl is now in high school. I do not focus on her grades. I focus on her confidence, self-esteem, and work ethic.
My hope is that we as a society can stop focusing on grades
Graduation season is upon us once again. My social media feed fills with all these posts about how great everyone’s kids are and their perfect grades, athletic achievements, the great schools they are going to attend, and so much more. My hope is that our society can focus on respectful, empathetic, kind individuals rather than on grades. We need more of these qualities. A solution is to abolish grades and brainstorm solutions like alternative assessments or project-based learning.
Academic grades rarely assess qualities like creativity, leadership and teamwork skills, or social, emotional, and political intelligence. Yes, straight-A students master cramming information and regurgitating it on exams. But career success is rarely about finding the right solution to a problem — it’s more about finding the right problem to solve.
Dr. Adam grant
Dr. Karen Arnold, Researcher, found that getting straight A’s requires conformity. Having an influential career demands originality. In a study of students who graduated at the top of their class, the research shows that although they usually had successful careers, they rarely reached the upper echelons.
“Valedictorians aren’t likely to be the future’s visionaries,” Dr. Arnold explained. “They typically settle into the system instead of shaking it up.”
Parents have an outsized concern with grades rather than with citizenship skills
I reflect on my children’s trajectory during this time of year as I am sure many parents do. We wonder where the years went and how we arrived at graduation day when it feels like they were just learning to walk, play, and share. A first-grade teacher commented to me that so many parents are consumed only with their child’s academic success.
She noticed they are not as concerned about their child’s citizenship skills. Citizenship, she explained, involved being a good friend, neighbor, caring for others, kindness, inclusion, and friendly attitude. She made a point to tell her students and parents that citizenship skills will carry them into their adult lives and will matter more than how well they did on a subtraction test.
I hope we can all remember those words. Our society needs more people focused on being good citizens. We need more kindness, compassion, empathy, and wonder. We need people willing to think outside the box and develop novel solutions.
We should emphasize volunteer work and random acts of kindness
Instead of spending time touting our children’s perfect report card, why don’t we engage in conversation to help them learn to be good citizens? Help them learn the value of volunteer work, practice random acts of kindness, and other altruistic goals. Ask your children what they learned today or ask if they made mistakes. After they share, ask what they took away from the experience.
We are all proud of our children whether they are the valedictorian, middle of the class, or just scraped by. We are all different and therefore have individual stories and trajectories. Let’s embrace all of these rather than trying to always be the one with the highest grades. There are students graduating this year who have been on a tightrope all year not knowing whether they would achieve this goal. They should be applauded because they are able to walk across the stage and receive a diploma along with all the high achievers.
Here are our top 12 things all freshmen need for their college dorm. (Shutterstock Dejan Dundjerski)
The good news is your teen is GOING to college. The bad news is your teen is LEAVING for college. To help them get ready for dorm life, there may be a long list of things they WANT to buy, but here is the short list of what every college student needs to bring with them — the absolute dorm essentials.
To streamline your shopping, we’ve cut straight to the basics and listed only the 12 must-haves they’ll need on day one.
In a few instances, we added extras for you to consider while shopping but have deliberately kept this college packing list short. Consider this a solid starting point and layer on the items your college student knows they will use, not the myriad things retailers and schools identify as “essentials.”
Besides, this is not 1992. Your student can easily order other furnishings and dorm decor after moving into their new space.
Second is to gather as much insight as possible from their college’s website, typically under “Residence Life.” Find out what things are provided for freshmen (e.g., desk lamp, trash can) and what might be prohibited (e.g., extension cord, coffee maker.) Look for the floor plan of the actual dorm your teen is assigned to and make note of any dimensions provided. Pay special attention if the bed is lofted and, if so, how much space there is under the bed that can be used for storage.
Third, your teen will want to coordinate with their roommate if they’re planning compatible decor and/or want to share a mini-fridge or microwave as most dorms are too small to accommodate duplicate appliances. An area rug is also popular, but no need to get more than one.
12 dorm essentials to put on your list
Note: We are a reader-supported site and receive compensation from purchases made through some of these links.
There’s no place other than a college dorm where your teen will need Twin XL sheets, which means you will need to get a new set or, at least, a fitted sheet in that size. Target sells a 3-piece set with a fitted sheet, top sheet, and pillowcase. These highly-rated sheets are affordable, soft, and durable and are available in 11 pretty colors.
Pottery Barn Teen
If your student wants something with a little more flair, Pottery Barn Teen has a fantastic selection of Twin XL bedding that would satisfy any style. Look for collaborations with Roller Rabbit, LoveShackFancy, Harry Potter™, NFL, NBA, and MLB among others.
Expert Tip: While shopping for sheets, your teen might also want to get a comforter, duvet, or blanket if they don’t already have something to bring from home. Twin XL size will fit the best, but consider choosing a regular or Queen size to fit future, larger beds.
You teen can bring towels from home or you can spring for a new set. Choosing a unique color or having them monogrammed will help your son or daughter avoid mixing them up in a communal bath or laundry room.
Ideally, students will need two sets of towels, and these Hydro-Cotton quick-drying towels from Pottery Barn Teen are an “Editor’s Choice” in Consumer Reports. They’re available in eight beautiful colors and personalization is an option at Pottery Barn Teen.
Target
The Target Threshold line of bath and bedding products are well-priced and are also available in many colors. This six-piece set of two each – bath towels, hand towels and washcloths – is a bargain at $24.
Help your student sleep like they’ve never left home by sending them to campus with a ViscoSoft Select High-Density Twin XL mattress topper. They are super comfortable, easy to clean, durable, and provide an ick-safe barrier between your teen and the old dorm mattress that’s typically provided. You can choose between 3″ or 4″ of gel-infused memory foam. The covers are washable and come with adjustable straps and slip-resistant mesh for a snug fit.
The quality construction and innovative design of this mattress topper helped Viscosoft become recognized as a highly-rated mattress topper brand by Consumer Reports and the New York Times Wirecutter product reviewers, too.
Limited Time Offer: Exclusive Grown and Flown Code for 20% Off ANY Select High Density Toppers on AMZ: GAF20VSSHD
If you’re interested in a lower price mattress topper from a trusted brand, ViscoSoft has just introduced a high quality topper with two features that make it more than a “basic piece of foam.” It comes with a machine washable cover and an anti-slip bottom so it won’t slide around on top of the college-supplied mattress. Available in 2″ and 3″ thickness.
Limited time offer: Exclusive Grown and Flown Code for 20% Off ANY Dusk Toppers on Amazon GAF20VSD
This is another item that your teen can bring from home. However, if buying a new one, consider this highly-rated shredded memory foam pillow which is machine-washable, a big plus when living in dusty dorm rooms.
Amazon
Expert Tip: Two pillows can make the bed much more comfortable as most dorm beds do not have headboards to lean on. Another excellent option for back support is this faux shearling bed rest pillow at Target or this one at Amazon.
Your teen will (eventually) wash their clothes and need a laundry basket or hamper to help transport a mountain of dirty clothes to the laundry room.
This backpack laundry bag is a great dorm essential that will work for most students. It has padded straps and is adjustable to accommodate regular and extra bulky loads. Available in loads of colors, it is made from durable Oxford cloth and can also be used as a travel or storage bag.
Students who make the trek down the hall with shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, soap dish, soap, deodorant, and a towel need to bring a shower caddy to college. For students who share a bathroom with suitemates, this item can be left off the list if they can leave their toiletries in the bathroom.
Expert Tip: Women students, in particular, might also want a bathrobe or towel wrap to wear for the walk to the communal shower rather than trying to keep a towel wrapped around them as they carry a shower caddy filled with all of the above. A bath wrap or terrycloth robe will help with drying off as they walk back to their room.
Whether walking down the hall to the bathroom or using the one they share with suitemates, shower shoes are a must-have dorm essential. Dorm and bathroom floors are gross and these water-proof flip flops have slip-resistant rubber soles. Available in many colors.
Dorm rooms only have so much built-in storage. That’s why under-bed storage containers are necessary to store bedding, extra socks and underwear, and toiletries. Before buying, find out as much as you can about the room to maximize this precious space.
Surge protectors will protect expensive electronics from a power surge and they typically offer multiple outlets and/or USB ports for all the electronic devices students bring to college. They are preferable to extension cords, which many schools ban. t
This TrickleStar surge protector is highly rated, has 12 power outlets and two USB ports, an eight foot power cord and a 10 year warranty.
Hydro Flask bottles are our favorites, and they’re available in numerous sizes and designs, all with a lifetime warranty. They are made of stainless steel and keep drinks cold and hot drinks hot for hours. Wirecutter agrees they’re the best water bottles for students, particularly the 21-ounce size. They can all cover their new bottle with the stickers they grab from various clubs and organizations.
We suggest that parents put together a medicine/first aid kit and fill it with what they know their teens are used to taking at home when they have colds or sore throats. Students seem to get sick at 2 a.m. and having a thermometer, cold remedies, and basic first aid supplies is essential. It is also vital to ensure your student can renew any prescription medication they are currently taking.
If you want a ready-made first aid kit, this one has all they need. With 160 pieces, it is stocked with standard first aid supplies: Neosporin, Benadryl Itch-Stopping topical cream, Tylenol Extra Strength acetaminophen pain reliever caplets, and a Bengay Non-Medicated Instant Cold Pack.
Packing up for college and moving into the dorm can be made much easier with a light-weight, durable bag like this one. Bonus is that it has straps so it can be worn as a backpack and it’s foldable and easily stashed in your student’s room to be used for moving out.
Other Dorm Essentials to Consider:
Backpacks
Your student can bring their backpack from home, but getting a new one that does not have years of crumbs and grime from high school is a little luxury that they will appreciate. We recommend the North Face Pivoter, but here are our picks for a new backpack.
School Supplies
Students may use different methods for reading, taking notes, and completing school assignments at college than they did in high school. Don’t buy a semester’s supply of bulky printer paper, sticky notes, notebooks, binders, pens, pencils, index cards, highlighters, scissors, folders, etc., if your student plans to use more digital resources. Additionally, dorms often have printing facilities, so students don’t need their printers and paper.
Dorm Cooking
If your student can use a microwave or coffee maker in their dorm, they might need a few things like a mug, bowl, utensils, dish soap, and paper towels. But those can all be purchased once they know what they’re allowed to use and where they can be stored.
How to Save Money On Dorm Essentials
Many retailers have free shipping and other special savings for college students, so read the fine print and take advantage of every offer. Your student may have to provide their .edu email address to be eligible, which seems like a fair ask to unlock the savings.
The Container Store offers special promotions, sweepstakes and savings when you text 28222 and/or by providing your email address. Learn more here.
Amazon Prime Days are July 16-17, 2024 and you can find amazing savings when you shop then. Here is where you can find all the Grown and Flown dorm picks on Amazon.
Why You Can Trust Us
I have dorm and apartment shopped with my own two kids and nephew and have also learned from thousands of other families (actually 290,000 members!) in the Grown and Flown Parents Facebook Group. Our parent members compare notes about what things their college students cannot live without and which things stayed in their boxes, collecting dust under the bed.
We also research consumer guides such as Consumer Reports, The New York Times Wirecutter, Good Housekeep among others to learn about the top brands for students.
We feel strongly that it is a big mistake to overbuy for your teen for their dorm but know that, as parents, we want to make sure we’ve done all we can to help them settle into dorm live, especially since we will not be nearby to help!
Here’s your complete guide on How To Care For A Baby Post-Vaccination, along with what to expect and important signs to look out for.
If you’re a parent and want to ensure that you’re doing the very best for your child’s long life and good health, the very first thing you must consider is immunization. As soon as your child is born, a regular immunization schedule will ensure that they stay protected from several dreaded diseases.
If you look around, you’ll find that many diseases have almost disappeared from the face of the earth thanks to dedicated immunization programs, while others have begun to make a comeback in places of high vaccine hesitancy.
Immunization is particularly important for children because many diseases like measles can prove to be fatal for babies. This is also why it is important to start early and follow the recommended immunization schedule. Here is the latest one as per the Indian Academy of Pediatrics:
While vaccination is certainly life-saving, it can have short term difficulties in the form of mild side effects. These are completely normal and generally go away on their own within a few days. Here are some of the most common side effects you can expect after your baby’s vaccination.
Common Side Effects after Vaccination in Babies
Crankiness, irritability or fussiness
Crying slightly more than usual
Tiredness for a few days
Soreness or redness at the site of the injection for 2-3 days
Hard bump or lump at the injection site for a few weeks
Fever with a temperature below 38 degrees, particularly after the MenB vaccine
Decreased appetite
Nausea or vomiting
Mild diarrhea, particularly after the oral Rotarix vaccine
Measles-like rash after the MMR or Varicella vaccine (the rash is not contagious)
Nasal congestion or runny nose after the Nasal Spray Influenza vaccine
As you can see, many of the side effects are generic, while some are specific to certain vaccines. In any case, you can make your child feel more comfortable by following a few simple tips.
For Newborns:
The ‘5 S’ method is recommended for newborns or babies under 5 months, immediately after getting a vaccine. This includes the 5 ‘S’ steps – Swaddle, Side/Stomach, Shush, Swing and Suck – explained as follows:
1. Swaddle or wrap baby tightly so they’re snug and warm.
2. Place baby on the side or stomach
3. Make shushing sounds in baby’s ears
4. Swing baby in your arms or on a baby swing
5. Let baby suck on the breast, bottle or pacifier
For Pain or Swelling:
1. Place a cold compress over the injection site. Dip a clean cloth in cold water, squeeze out the excess and use.
2. Apply an ice pack. Place a few ice cubes in a clean cloth and gently dab at the affected area a few times a day
3. Move the child’s arm or leg (the site of the injection) several times a day to get rid of any swelling
4. Gently massage the injection site without rubbing too hard
5. Ask your doctor about any topical numbing
For Fever:
1. Dress baby in light clothes and avoid blankets
2. Offer lots of fluids, in the form of breast milk, formula or water
3. Avoid baths and sponge down baby’s body with lukewarm water instead
4. Give baby liquid paracetamol if the fever is over 37 degrees. This is particularly recommended after the MenB vaccine.
5. Avoid too much stimulation and let baby rest.
For Everything Else:
1. Offer the breast whenever the baby seems cranky – the act of sucking helps to soothe them immediately
2. Hold and cuddle baby for longer, speaking or singing in a soothing voice
3. Distract your baby with a book, toy or by playing games
4. If your baby’s appetite is low, offer more liquids. Babies over 6 months can have a fruit juice or something sweet.
5. Wash hands well after changing baby’s diaper especially after taking the Rotavirus vaccine since some of the antigen may be in the excreta.
6. Stay calm. Babies can sense if you get upset or worried, and it can be difficult for them to settle down.
When to see the Doctor
Once your child has taken their vaccination, it is important to be by their side and observe carefully for the next few days. While most of the post-vaccination symptoms will go away in this time, there are a few signs you need to watch out for, like these:
Excessive crying or screaming for longer than usual
Dehydration or refusal to eat or drink
Appears weak and less active than usual
Increased sleepiness and difficult to wake
Looks pale or ill
Persistent fever for more than 2 days that doesn’t go down with paracetamol
High temperatures over 39 degrees
Severe vomiting or diarrhea
Swollen tummy or bloody stool, especially after the rotavirus vaccine
Seizures or fits – shaking, twitching or jerking movements
Raised pink or red spots or rashes on the skin
If you observe any of these signs take your child to the doctor right away. In very rare cases, a vaccine may cause an allergic reaction, but this usually occurs within 15 minutes of administering the vaccine. Allergic symptoms may appear as hives, difficulty breathing or swelling of the tongue, lips or throat. Alert the hospital staff if you notice any of these.
Since babies require multiple vaccinations before the age of two, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends cutting down on the discomfort by opting for combination vaccines. Some examples are the Dtap (tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis) or the Hib (polio and haemophilus influenzae type b). Talk to your doctor about the right kind of combination vaccine for your child.
Don’t forget to update baby’s immunization card with the vaccine they’ve just taken, and use this opportunity to schedule the next one. With proper care and planning, you can ensure that your baby gets all the protection they need, with minimum pain and discomfort.
References:
Buy Healthy Nutritious Baby, Toddler food made by our own Doctor Mom !
My kids both played high level competitive sports through their entire youth. My son started at six, playing at least two sports simultaneously all year round. Sometimes three. They often overlapped, took over most weekends and holidays, and helped us find amazing friends who are like family.
We did this every weekend for years. And when I say years, I mean it. There were plenty of times we prayed for rain, so we could just have a canceled tournament and a weekend off. I think about those times now with an ache-I would love to go back even for just one packed weekend.
My husband lives for our son’s baseball performance and it is ruining our marriage. (Shutterstock: Kinga)
My son is now a professional athlete
But now…now the kids are grown and flown. My daughter is in college, and my son is a professional athlete.
Wait what???
I am not minimizing the fact that this is amazing. That he is one of the very, very few to “make it,” getting drafted after three years of college and now playing in the Minor Leagues of baseball. Kinda makes all those crazy weekends worth it.
Turning pro was my son’s dream, not mine
But that wasn’t my dream, it was his. I’m thrilled for him, following his dreams and playing the game he loves for a living (albeit not much of a paycheck), learning about himself and growing, striving to get promoted. In many ways he is just like all of our adult kids at the beginning of their careers.
But my husband is ruining the fun. I am not blind to the fact that he’s always been a little crazy, tougher on the kids in their sports than he needed to be, and laser focused on their performances. This isn’t NEW.
What is new is the intensity and focus he has on the game; the over-analysis of our son’s play every single day. The stress and worry about his failures. The mood changes when the days are good or bad-like this is all that matters.
My husband is ruining everything with his laser focus on my son’s performances
He lives, breathes, sleeps and eats baseball, and specifically, our son’s baseball performance. The texts and phone calls with other baseball dads are endless. The review of at-bats and stats, comparison to other players, negative comments about the game/team/others go on and on.
He worries. I understand this. It’s a competitive industry with plenty of talent and our son is one in a million, practically. It’s perform or be pushed out. There is another guy waiting for your spot. But, it’s affecting me. It’s affecting our marriage. It’s affecting his relationship with our daughter, our families, and our non-baseball focused friends.
My husband’s behavior is affecting all of his other relationships
He doesn’t want to do anything or go anywhere during the games, which are live-streamed. That’s every single day for three+ hours, in the evening. One could argue that he’s supporting his son, but it’s unhealthy to have your life completely coopted by someone else’s schedule.
I was thinking about this today because in no other job does a parent scrutinize their child’s performance daily. Imagine your kid gets a new job, as a sales rep. Do you get daily reports on how many calls they made, how their sales pitch slide deck went over with a client, whether they made the requisite number of calls today, and if they were on time to work?
This level of involvement isn’t healthy no matter what field your young adult goes into
Or maybe your son or daughter graduates college and starts in a finance role. Do you ask on a nightly call whether they impressed the boss today-or did someone else do better work? Was their participation in the team meeting stellar? Did they have a brilliant idea that wowed the execs and are they thinking about their next step up?
I could go on and on, but the answer is…NO. This level of involvement isn’t normal, or healthy. In no other world are you watching your kid’s every move, and then re-watching it because you can.
I see the problem but I’m not sure what to do about it. It has become a huge issue for me, and others are noticing and commenting. Especially our daughter. Why can’t he be a fan, cheer and encourage without being affected by every bad swing? Why can’t he be excited by a great day, and not overanalyze what was better, different? Why is he always thinking the worst?
My husband’s behavior affects me adversely but i have no idea what to do about it
It’s affecting me too. I don’t want to watch games together. I don’t talk about baseball or the game. I don’t want to engage, because it’s literally always negativity.
After all these years, you think I would have the answers. But I don’t. People change. No one is perfect. I’m optimistic by nature and I hope that we can talk it out and make some changes before things are permanently broken.
I refuse to have my family ruined over baseball.
The author of this post wishes to remain anonymous.
My adult children say that I have a cliche for every occasion. They don’t mean it as a compliment but, nonetheless, I’ll take it as such. Their derision aside, as I watch my sons sprawled out on my couch, limbs akimbo, I can only think, “The more things change the more they stay the same.”
The more things change, the more they stay the same (Photo credit: Helene Wingens)
5 ways my adult sons remind me of their younger selves
1. They still fight
Earlier in the day, when they walked in, my eldest son decided to tell his youngest brother that as between the two of them he was still the stronger. Then he said something like, “I can still take you-let’s go” before they fell to the ground wrestling.
This threw me back to the before times when I felt like all I did was referee fights. It used to bother me tremendously on two accounts: One, I thought my children were too physical and far too violent with each other and two, I was always convinced we were about to spend the evening in the ER. And who has time for that???
At this point, I maintain that it’s ridiculous behavior and that I will never understand it, but I’ve also accepted that it’s a “brother thing.” Moreover, any ensuing injuries are, as my children love to tell me, a them problem not a me problem.
2. Video games are still a thing
They will still play video games. I used to worry that they were being completely compromised by the number of hours they spent in front of those mindless games. But now that they are all gainfully employed and superbly socialized, they still love to get back in game playing mode-if only for the time they are home. And I no longer need to worry that those hours on video games will damage their young minds beyond repair. They are fully cooked.
3. They still make a beeline for the refrigerator
They walk in the door and open the refrigerator as if they are still growing 6 inches a year. They have continued to be constantly ravenous. Not only that, but they still review each item in the fridge as if they work for the FDA. Anything that is one nanosecond past its “best by” date is reviled with exclamations of great disgust and quickly tossed.
Everything else is subject to full scrutiny, as if they still lived in the place. And why, they want to know, don’t mom and dad still carry the yogurt they like?
4. They still don’t like change, at least when it comes to their old home
They are completely stunned, and I might add, desperately unhappy about any changes to the home they grew up in. The beautiful new blue couch that has replaced the beat-up, ugly, torn, brown couch that was in the den meets with great scorn and disappointment. Apparently, mom and dad are potted plants and should be in exactly the same position surrounded by the same furniture as when the children left for college 10 years ago. They, of course, can come and go and move and change but WE are supposed to maintain the status quo at home.
5. They still love the family pet (maybe that’s why they really come home)
The adult children still love the family pet the most. They can talk or text with us, so often the dog is secretly the real reason they have to come home. When they were young the first thing they did when they walked through the door after school was head straight for the dog for a hug and some play time. Nothing has changed. The dog still holds their heart, has the first call on their attention and we wouldn’t change a thing.
Thinking about a day trip to the Nantahala Outdoor Center in Bryson City, NC? KAG Guest Contributor Lauren Justus visited to the Nantahala Outdoor Center with her family. She’s telling us all about their adventures, with recommendations on things to do and where to eat near the Nantahala Outdoor Center.
I want to tell you about the perfect family day trip to the NC mountains. We left Greenville, SC one Sunday morning, heading toward the Nantahala Outdoor Center Website (NOC) in Bryson City, NC. This was exactly a two-hour drive for us. It was most definitely worth it. We spent the day enjoying the beautiful sights and sounds of the NOC campus, restaurants, and outfitters store and ended our day with an adventurous tubing experience.
Find a place to stay in Bryson City, NC. This article contains Stay22 affiliate links.
Dining at the NOC
There are two great riverfront dining options at the NOC. We opted for River’s End Restaurant, open daily. We arrived as the restaurant was opening for lunch and were able to sit outside on the covered porch overlooking the river. The weather was perfect!
There was a really nice breeze, as the restaurant sits up high overlooking the river. Get there early to grab a prime seat on the patio – it filled up quickly on a Sunday. With a menu ranging from burgers, salads, pizza, and sandwiches, there is definitely something for everyone. Read the full menu on the River’s End Restaurant Website.
If you’re looking for a more casual option, order food for pick up at Big Wesser, directly across from River’s End Restaurant, where you’ll take your food to a table (first come, first served) with also great views of the action on the water! Read the full menu on the Big Wesser Riverside Pub Website.
For a sweet treat or morning breakfast, enjoy donuts and coffee from Slow Joe’s Donut Bus. Read the full menu on the Slow Joe’s Donut Bus Website.
Lodging At NOC
There are several places to stay in Bryson City, NC. You can camp or stay in one of their many lodges or cabins. To find a place to stay visit the Nantahala Outdoor Center Website.
NOC Whitewater Rafting
The NOC is known for their exciting whitewater rafting adventures. This wasn’t part of our trip since our preschool-age children were with us, but I highly recommend those with older children who are at least 7 years old or 60 lbs. look into a guided rafting trip down the Nantahala River.
This 8-mile trip is a great option for first-time rafters, led by an experienced NOC guide to help navigate the river and successfully glide down the Class III rapids at the very end of the course. Talk about an adrenaline rush! All safety gear is provided for you, just be sure to bring your water shoes, a towel, and some dry clothes to change into.
The NOC will transport you up to the top of the course by bus. Prepare yourself for this three-hour adventure, the Nantahala River is the coldest whitewater stream in the Southeast with an average temperature barely reaching the 50’s.
After lunch, we walked around the NOC grounds to explore. Our boys (ages 3 and 5) spent well over an hour wading in the crystal clear water watching brave kayakers and rafters navigate the river. There is a very shallow area next to the restaurants with plenty of room to space out and get your feet wet. The 50-degree water didn’t stop my three-year-old from getting soaked from head to toe!
Your kids will also love this: walk (upstream) to the back of River’s Edge Restaurant. You’ll see a sidewalk that will take you uphill to an overlook. It’s a very short walk. Here you will find an entertaining view of the Class III rapids at the end of the rafting course. Around 12:30 pm we were able to watch dozens of whitewater rafters and kayakers making their way down the final (intense) falls! Our children found that very exciting. We watched many rafters fall out and successfully get rescued by other rafts in the fleet!
Also on that Sunday afternoon, the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad (GSMR) stopped at the NOC for a one-hour layover, and how I wish I could have caught my boys’ expressions when they saw that train coming to a stop right as we were walking by! The GSMR posts its daily schedule on the Great Smoky Mountains website, so check that before you plan your visit to the Nantahala Outdoor Center to see if that can work out for your day trip.
More Things to Do at NOC
Hiking the Appalachian Trail If you’ve ever dreamed of setting foot on the Appalachian Trail, you can do that at the Nantahala Outdoor Center. Just a quick walk over the train tracks you’ll see signs pointing you to the trail. We didn’t venture too far, but it was really fun to experience that!
Zip Lining If you are looking for more adventure, check out the NOC’s guided zip line tour. You’ll travel through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and have prime views of Fontana Lake.
As we departed the NOC and headed back to Greenville, we stopped at Deep Creek Tube Center and Campground (directly on our route home). My five-year-old was asking for an adventure, and did we ever find it! We rented tubes for $7 per person, tied them to the top of our car, and drove about a mile into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Deep Creek is a one-mile stretch with the upper section more appropriate for older children and adults. We opted for the lower section which is wider and much calmer, but still very exciting. I was able to tube independently while holding a rope attached to my son’s tube. He was always beside me. You’ll park your car and walk while carrying your tubes the half-mile journey (via sidewalk) where you will see many places to put your tube in and start the fun! We went down the half-mile (lower section) three times before heading home. The water is shallow, about 2 feet deep. Tubing season ends after Labor Day weekend.
Pro Tips for Visiting the NOC
Arrive early to the Nantahala Outdoor Center if you plan to visit on a weekend. When we arrived, the main parking lot to the NOC was already full at 10:30 am (mainly from rafters who arrived early for their guided tours). There are signs that point you to alternate parking areas but I can see how those would also fill up quickly.
Pack a towel and change of clothes for everyone, even if you aren’t participating in the white water rafting. My kids really wanted me to join in on the fun of feeling the “take-your-breath-away” temperature of the Nantahala River! With that said, bring your water shoes! There are really nice changing facilities available next to the Big Wesser Restaurant and rafting check-in area.
Pose for a family photo on the NOC bridge, you can’t miss it!
I hope you enjoy the atmosphere of the NOC as much as we did. It was just what our family needed, and good for the soul to breathe in some fresh mountain air!
Discover more things to do in Western North Carolina!
Day Trip to The Nantahala Outdoor Center in Bryson City, NC
Graveyard Fields: Don’t Let the Name of This Awesome Swimming Hole Scare You Off
Thirst is a bodily sensation that many neurodivergent children struggle to recognize due to sensory processing differences – an issue especially in the warm summer months. Children who have trouble with the interoceptive sense may feel internal discomfort but will struggle to register that it’s due to thirst or dehydration.
Help your child stay hydrated and healthy this summer (and year-round) with these strategies.
1. Follow a Hydration Routine
Develop a fluid-intake routine to train your child to better tune in to their senses.
Challenge your child to drink a minimum of eight cups of fluids — even better if it’s mostly water — spaced out every few hours throughout the day (e.g., after waking up, mid-morning, before lunch, mid-afternoon, and before dinner). Your child may need more fluids depending on activity level and the weather. Fluids can be paired with snacks and meals.
Monitor your child’s fluid intake — including time, amount, and types of fluids (water, juice, milk, etc.) they drink. Maintaining a log can help ensure they’re sticking to the routine and help you spot any unhealthy drinking patterns, like not drinking enough in one sitting, going for long hours without fluid intake, or hydrating too close to bedtime, which can disrupt sleep. Be sure to ask teachers, babysitters, and other caregivers to record your child’s fluid intake, too.
Set alarms using your watch, smartphone, and/or a device such as an Alexa to prompt your child and family to drink water and other fluids.
Use pictures and other visual cues. Hang up an illustration of a child eating and drinking in sequence to remind your child what to do. Store cups next to plates and pack a carton of juice with your child’s lunchbox to visually connect eating with drinking.
3. Make Hydrating Fun
Encourage your child to choose a special cup or bottle, like one decorated with their favorite characters or animals, to motivate them to refill and stay hydrated. Novelty or musical reusable straws are also fun. Make water more interesting and palatable by adding natural flavors such as chopped mango, blueberries, or any fruit of your child’s choice, introduced at different times of the day.
Hydrating is not just about consuming cups of fluids. Water-rich foods – gelatin, popsicles, yogurts, and fruits – can also help your child stay hydrated. Though not a substitute for drinking fluids overall, these foods are a great compromise if your child resists drinking fluids.
5. Get Help from a Medical Professional
If keeping your child hydrated with the above strategies is a daily battle, you may be thinking, “Can’t I just let my child drink when they want to?”
Our bodies need to stay hydrated for many health reasons, from keeping the bladder clear of bacteria to carrying nutrients and oxygen to cells. Indigestion, constipation, and dysregulation are all results of dehydration.
But forcing your child to take in more fluid isn’t the answer. A medical professional can help you implement healthy strategies for your unique child.
Be mindful of the following symptoms, as they could indicate that your child is dehydrated. If symptoms are severe, call 911.
dry mouth, lips, tongue, eyes, and skin
tiredness and irritability
headaches and dizziness
dark, concentrated, strong-smelling urine
urinating less frequently
muscle cramps or spasms (may be noticeable during play)
rapid heartbeat
Hydration Tips for Neurodivergent Kids: Next Steps
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Introducing a delightful and nutritious twist on a classic dessert! Quinoa Kheer is a perfect choice for babies, toddlers, and kids, offering a blend of wholesome ingredients and delightful flavors. This recipe combines the superfood qualities of quinoa with the creamy richness of traditional kheer, making it a delicious and healthy option for your little ones. Whether you’re looking to introduce a new taste or ensure your child’s meal is packed with essential nutrients, Quinoa Kheer is the perfect solution.
Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, quinoa is an excellent alternative to rice, providing a health boost in every spoonful. This easy-to-make kheer recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various dietary needs and preferences. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a comforting and nutritious dessert that your kids will love, and you’ll feel great about serving. Let’s dive into this easy-to-make recipe that promises to be a hit with the whole family!
Health Benefits of Quinoa
Quinoa, often hailed as a superfood, is a fantastic addition to the diet of babies, toddlers, and kids. Here are some of the key health benefits it offers:
High Nutritional Value: Quinoa is packed with essential nutrients that are vital for the growth and development of children. It contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source, which is particularly important for growing bodies.
Rich in Fiber: Fiber is crucial for healthy digestion, and quinoa is a great source of it. Including quinoa in your child’s diet can help promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation.
Gluten-Free: For children with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, quinoa is a safe and nutritious grain alternative. It provides similar benefits to other grains without the gluten, making it suitable for gluten-free diets.
Packed with Vitamins and Minerals: Quinoa is rich in vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, magnesium, iron, potassium, and calcium. These nutrients support various bodily functions, such as energy production, bone health, and immune function.
High in Antioxidants: The antioxidants in quinoa, such as quercetin and kaempferol, help protect the body’s cells from damage by free radicals. This can contribute to overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases later in life.
Easy to Digest: Quinoa is relatively easy on the digestive system, making it an excellent first grain for babies. Its gentle nature helps ensure that young tummies can handle it without issues.
Supports Healthy Growth: The high protein content in quinoa supports muscle development and overall growth in children. Additionally, its iron content helps prevent anemia and supports brain development.
Energy Boost: The carbohydrates in quinoa provide a steady source of energy, which is essential for active kids. It helps keep them fueled for play and learning throughout the day.
Versatile and Kid-Friendly: Quinoa’s mild flavor and versatile nature make it easy to incorporate into various meals, from breakfast porridge to savory dishes and desserts like kheer. This versatility ensures that kids can enjoy its benefits without getting bored.
By including quinoa in your baby’s, toddler’s, or kid’s diet, you’re providing them with a powerhouse of nutrition that supports their overall health and development.
Recipe of Quinoa Kheer
Ingredients
Quinoa: ¼ cup
Water: ¼ cup
Almonds: 6
Cashews: 6
Powdered cardamom: ¼ tsp
Milk: 1¼ cups
Ghee/Clarified Butter: 1-2 tsp
Jaggery or Honey: 3 tbsp
Instructions
Rinse ¼ cup of quinoa in water, repeating 2-3 times until the water runs clear.
Soak the rinsed quinoa in water for 5 minutes and set aside.
For babies below one year, prepare formula milk and keep it ready. If using cow’s milk, boil it until frothy.
Measure the jaggery or honey and set aside. If using jaggery, melt it and strain to remove impurities.
Heat ghee in a small pressure cooker until it melts. Add the drained quinoa and sauté on low-medium flame for 5 minutes.
Add ¼ cup of milk and ¼ cup of water to the quinoa.
Pressure cook the mixture on medium flame for 3-4 whistles or until soft. Alternatively, cook in a saucepan with a lid for 10 minutes.
For babies below one year, use ½ cup of water instead of milk.
Once the pressure is released, open the cooker and mix well. Add the remaining 1 cup of milk (skip milk for babies below one year), powdered cardamom, saffron, and jaggery or honey.
Mix well and cook on low flame for 5 minutes until the kheer thickens slightly, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
In a small pan, heat a teaspoon of ghee and roast the cashews and almonds for a minute. Once the kheer is ready, add the ghee-roasted nuts.
For babies below one year, add the prepared formula milk once the kheer is warm and 2 teaspoons of nuts powder instead of whole nuts.
Quinoa Kheer is not only a delicious treat but also a powerhouse of nutrition, perfect for babies, toddlers, and kids. Its rich, creamy texture combined with the wholesome benefits of quinoa and the natural sweetness of jaggery, or honey makes it an ideal dessert for growing children. By incorporating this nutritious kheer into their diet, you’re ensuring they get essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins in a delightful way.
Give this recipe a try and watch your little ones enjoy every spoonful! If you found this recipe helpful, don’t forget to share it with other parents looking for healthy meal options for their children. For more nutritious and delicious recipes, subscribe to our blog and stay updated with our latest posts. Happy cooking!
Enjoy this nutritious and delicious Quinoa Kheer, perfect for babies, toddlers, and kids!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any type of milk for making Quinoa Kheer?
Yes, you can use any type of milk depending on your preference and your child’s dietary needs. Cow’s milk, formula milk, or even plant-based milk like almond or coconut milk can be used. If your child is below one year, it’s recommended to use formula milk instead of cow’s milk.
Is it necessary to soak quinoa before cooking it?
Soaking quinoa helps in removing the natural coating called saponin, which can make it taste bitter. While it’s not strictly necessary, soaking for a few minutes and rinsing thoroughly can improve the taste and texture of the kheer.
Can I substitute jaggery or honey with another sweetener?
Yes, you can use other natural sweeteners like maple syrup, date syrup, or even brown sugar if you prefer. Avoid honey for babies under one year due to the risk of botulism.
Nutritious Quinoa Kheer Recipe for Babies, Toddlers, and Kids
Rinse ¼ cup of quinoa in water, repeating 2-3 times until the water runs clear. Soak the rinsed quinoa in water for 5 minutes and set aside.
For babies below one year, prepare formula milk and keep it ready. If using cow's milk, boil it until frothy. Measure the jaggery or honey and set aside.
If using jaggery, melt it and strain to remove impurities. Heat ghee in a small pressure cooker until it melts. Add the drained quinoa and sauté on low-medium flame for 5 minutes.
Add ¼ cup of milk and ¼ cup of water to the quinoa. Pressure cook the mixture on medium flame for 3-4 whistles or until soft.
Alternatively, cook in a saucepan with a lid for 10 minutes. For babies below one year, use ½ cup of water instead of milk. Once the pressure is released, open the cooker and mix well.
Add the remaining 1 cup of milk (skip milk for babies below one year), powdered cardamom, saffron, and jaggery or honey.
Mix well and cook on low flame for 5 minutes until the kheer thickens slightly, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. In a small pan, heat a teaspoon of ghee and roast the cashews and almonds for a minute.
Once the kheer is ready, add the ghee-roasted nuts. For babies below one year, add the prepared formula milk once the kheer is warm and 2 teaspoons of nuts powder instead of whole nuts.
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Armenian last names carry a rich heritage and cultural significance, reflecting the country’s history, geography, and traditions. These surnames often reveal a wealth of information about ancestry, occupations, or personal characteristics. Let’s look at some of these Armenian surnames to understand their naming culture better.
About Armenian Surnames
Armenian surnames typically end in “-ian” or “-yan,” meaning “son of” or “family of.” This suffix is a distinct marker of Armenian heritage.
The structure of these surnames is deeply rooted in the historical and social fabric of Armenia, with many names originating from patriarchal lineages, professions, places of origin, or personal traits. This tradition helps preserve the legacy and familial connections through generations.
Armenian last names are not just identifiers but a testament to a rich cultural and historical legacy.
The unique suffixes and the meanings behind these surnames offer a window into the Armenian way of life, reflecting occupations, familial connections, and personal attributes.
From the popular to the rare, each surname carries a story, contributing to the rich tapestry of Armenian heritage.
