I avoid using character themed bedding for my kids, but my sister-in-law always buys themed bedding. This post is all about the nitty-gritty of our different decisions. I avoid character themed bedding to save money. Children will outgrow their preferences before they wear out the sheets. Kids can flip-flop between their latest obsessions constantly. By using a generic bedding set I don't have to worry about switching out my daughter's bedding when her interests change. When we moved Grace out of the nursery and into her new bedroom, we went with a purple theme. We bought a comforter from Ikea, but we didn't find it in the kid's … [Read more...]
Where to Find Frugal Busy Bag Containers
Have you heard of busy bags? They are a simple activity meant to entertain little ones and ideally it can be re-used again and again. My mom made several busy bags for Grace last spring and she needed some small containers for a few of them. In a moment of inspiration my mom decided to see if the deli counter at her grocery store would sell her the containers they use for things like pasta salad. My mom bought small containers for $0.10, medium containers for $0.15, and lids for only $0.05 from the deli counter! They are perfect for holding beads and pasta or sorting pom-poms. Have you ever made a busy bag? You can find some … [Read more...]
8 Quality “Santa Free” Christmas Storybooks
This post contains affiliate links. We are in the middle of our Christmas bedtime story tradition. Reading a Christmas themed book every night before bed is a fun and easy way to get excited about the holiday. We don't completely avoid Santa themed books in our house, but I try my best to be sure he isn't taking over the show. My favorite books from our collection are ones that focus on Christ, giving, or family. We want our children to look forward to Christmas for those reasons above all else. Here are 8 of my favorite Christmas storybooks from our personal collection that are Santa Claus free: 1. A Christmas Prayer - by Amy … [Read more...]
Our November Thankful Tree
When I came across Bargain Bound's Thankful Tree, I knew right away it was something I wanted to try. The craft side of it was simple enough for non-crafty me. Plus I loved the concept of expressing thanks each day in November. How It Works: Everyday in November, ask your kids what they are thankful for. Write it on a leaf. Place the leaf on the branches at the top of the tree. At the end of the month you'll have a tree full of thankful thoughts! Supplies Needed: Brown Paper - You can use butcher paper or bulletin board paper. I bought 6 feet of bulletin board paper from my local educational supply store for $0.55 … [Read more...]
Melted Crayon Art
This Saturday I found myself wondering, "How can I be the cool aunt?" My niece and nephew were spending the day with me and I was hoping to find something fun to do with them. What did I come up with? Armed with several boxes of crayons, some canvas boards, a hot glue gun, and a hair dryer, we got busy! We did two different melted crayon art methods. I learned about the first method from Meg at the blog Whatever. She has beautiful pictures of her hair dryer crayon art and it is even used in her blog's header. Hot glue new crayons onto a canvas and then set your hair dryer on high to melt the crayons. Don't forget to … [Read more...]
Water Play Busy Bag & Pool Fun That Doesn’t Cost a Thing!
My mom blessed me with a bunch of homemade busy bags for Grace. They have been great to pull out when I need some moments of peace and quiet! What is a busy bag? It is a simple activity meant to entertain little ones and ideally it can be re-used again and again. Perhaps my favorite busy bag that my mom put together was one for water play and pool fun. The best part is that it didn't cost her a penny! To make a water play busy bag, start by looking around your house for reusable items. Lids for scooping & pouring - My mom collected laundry detergent & shaving cream lids. These are great because they are often … [Read more...]
