Parenting

 

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One of the best parts about being a parent is the opportunity to recreate childhood memories with your children.

My children absolutely LOVE animals, so they were beside themselves when Disney’s The Lion King movie was advertised. It will be in theaters on July 19th, and my daughters have started their own countdown!

 

When I saw who would be the voices for all my beloved characters, I got excited too! The Lion King was one of my favorite movies as a kid, and I can probably quote 90% of the original movie (songs included).

It has been exciting to see many of the movies, toys and t.v. shows I enjoyed as a kid coming back into circulation for my kids to enjoy.

Here are a few ways I recreate childhood memories with my kids:

Reenact movie scenes with toys from Walmart

In preparation for The Lion King, the kids and I made a special trip to Walmart to check out the newest selection of The Lion King toys. My daughters loved the Walmart exclusive item Disney’s The Lion King Kissing Plush Simba & Nala.

When you press their mouths together, they connect like they are really kissing! They liked this toy because they really got two for one. Simba & Nala are soft and cuddly and even resilient enough for my tough little toddler.

My girls also loved The Lion King Jumbo Plush Nala. They were hugging her in the store, so I knew she had to come home with us!

If your kids are anticipating Disney’s The Lion King as much as mine, then check out the variety of products in store at Walmart: toys, grocery, decor, and apparel. Throughout next weekend (7/19), there are special events happening, so check the event locator at Walmart.com/LionKing for a store near you.

At the events, you can take home a limited edition Disney’s The Lion King movie poster (while supplies last). Bring your pride & join Walmart for crafts, exclusive toy demos, & fun surprises as Walmart celebrates at participating stores.

When we got home, the kids started using their toys to recreate some of their favorite scenes from the movie.

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They started asking me questions about the new movie, and reminded me that we need to go see it soon!

Share Childhood Pictures with Them

Remember when companies started coming out with character clothing with the launch of a new t.v show or movie? I definitely had outfits with some of my favorite characters that I wore all the time. My kids love seeing me as a little girl doing things that they now enjoy.

Share Movie Themed Snacks

Do your kids love themes as much as I do? At Walmart, they have a variety of the kids favorite snacks like Go-Gurt, Cinnamon Toast Crunch and Cheerios, that have pictures of The Lion King characters on the box that your kids will love.

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If you have picky eaters, don’t worry, there is something for everybody!

Honestly, one of the best parts of parenting is creating lifelong memories with your kids.
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Those memories are so much sweeter when you get to recreate some of your favorite memories from your childhood with your children.

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Becoming a farm wife has made me a snob about food in some people’s eyes, but it has taught me that the food we eat comes at a price. Someone took the time to grow and cultivate the food so that we can have the food that we love.

A few years ago, my husband became a full time farmer and started his own business, Anthony’s Roots.

Before becoming a farm wife, my husband and I  were always passionate about food. How and where it was grown, the processes used to grow it, and how to cook it.

My husband threw around terms like GMO, CSAs and many more. Most of the time I listened, but other times I just grinned and tuned him out (I know that’s terrible, but I’m guilty)

I’ve always been passionate about food too–passionate about taste. In college I watched the Food Network and I loved experimenting with new recipes.

Since he’s taken up farming, I have a new appreciation for food. People think that being a farmer’s wife makes me a snob about food, but the truth is things I typically would never try taste different….and when I say different, I mean better!

Now that I’ve had a taste of true freshness, I’ve learned a few things:

Most of What We Eat is Genetically Engineered

What does it mean when your food is genetically engineered? It means that your food is being altered in a lab setting so that it can withstand herbicide and/or to produce an insecticide. GMOs prevent food from doing what it does naturally–like the browning of apples, or keeping food from going bad longer.

A “Non-GMO” label on food suggests that all ingredients were derived from plants, animals, or other organisms whose genetic material has not been artificially  altered in a laboratory.

The American Public Health Association and American Nurses Association are among many medical groups that disagree with the use of growth hormones used on cows,because the milk from treated cows has more of the hormone that is  linked to cancer.

If caring about my overall wellness makes me a snob about food, then so be it.

Kids Can Learn to Like Veggies Despite Popular Belief

Trust me, I’ve had to do a little negotiating, but I’ve made some gains in getting my picky 7 year old to try different veggies.

Most recently, I had to bribe her with a snickers to get her to eat squash, but at the end of the day, I was happy because she ate the squash.

She has been more open to trying new things because my husband gets our children to help in the garden. They plant the seeds, pull the weeds and harvest the food. They are invested from the beginning, so they are more likely to try new things. That makes this mama’s heart glad!

Taking Time To Learn Where Your Food Comes From is Vital

Most kids don’t think about the hard work that it takes to get food.

(Before my husband became a farmer, I don’t know that we truly understood either.)

They don’t understand that a farmer needs rain to help his crops grow. And sometimes crops fail–which means certain food doesn’t grow.

When we go to the grocery store, we see what we want and buy it. We don’t think about the fact that buying berries in the winter means they will be sour because that’s not the season that they normally grow in.

It’s important for kids to know that our meat comes from animals and our fruits and veggies are grown. It gives them a greater appreciation for the world around them.

It’s important to teach our children the value of hard work and where our food comes from. Investing in your family’s health is a step into improving your overall wellness.

This post contains Amazon affiliate links.This means that I may receive a small commission (at no cost to you) if you subscribe or purchase something through the links on this page.

It’s hard to find non-toxic sunscreen options for brown skin. Trust me, I’ve been on this quest for awhile.

As a kid, I never understood why I needed sunscreen for brown skin if I didn’t burn.

 

I quickly learned the benefit of having more melanin than my lighter skinned friends.

My parents are Jamaicans, so were use to spending large amounts of time in the sun. My mom made sunscreen mandatory.

What I always hated about it, was that it left a streaky, white residue that never seemed to rub in.

My mom wanted us to rub it all over, but it just sat on top of my skin, and made me look ashy. Sunscreen was just embarassing to wear.

When I became an adult, I switched to face moisturizers that had sunscreen in it as an alternative, and spray sunscreens so that I didn’t have to rub in the white stuff anymore.

What I noticed about the sprays is that if it happened to get in your mouth or near your face, it tasted horrible and would make you cough.

Since diving into a more non-toxic lifestyle, I’ve realized that so many of the products (and brands) that we’ve all come to know and love are filled with toxic chemicals.

When I started having (biracial) children, I began to pay attention to the ingredients listed on the bottle. Now I’m “that” mom.

The mom that reads EVERY SINGLE LABEL.

I promise, I’m not just doing it to be extra, but because I’m investing in my family’s wellness.

So here are a few non-toxic sunscreen options for brown skin:

California Baby

California Baby is a little on the pricier side, but when you purchase their products, you know that your child’s skin is safe. The founder (mom) Jessica Iclisoy found plant based substitutes for harmful chemicals in baby products. Many of the plant based ingredients used in California Baby products were grown on a farm right here in the U.S.

BabyGanics

I love Babyganics! It’s so gentle & smooth that I often use it for myself. Another win for me is that they  use recyclable, recycled or sustainable packing materials.

Babo Botanicals

Ya’ll know that I’m a sucker for companies that are transparent about their ingredients. If you head over to the Babo Botanicals website, you will find an ingredient list with pictures AND what each ingredient is good for. They make sunscreens formulated for babies an adults.

Baby Bum

Baby bum is on my list of sunscreens to try next. I spotted this brand while on a Target run. Their products are vegan, plant based, tear-free, dermatalogist tested and cruetly free. 

Earth Mama Organics Kids

I love the Earth Mama brand. I used their nipple butter while breastfeeding (and it also doubles as an amazing foot cream!). They have launched a new kids line, and I love using products from companies I can trust.

                                         

Young Living

Ya’ll know how much I love natural, non-toxic products. Young Living makes sunscreen options for brown skin that are lightweight and fast absorbing. It protects against UVA & UVB rays.

What I love about Young Living products is the seed to seal promise. In short, Young Living prides itself on not using harmful synthetics, contaminants or cheap fillers. The oils & ingredients in their products are sources from their own corporate-owned farms, partner farms, and seed to seal certified suppliers.

Are you ready to start your wellness journey with Young Living? Click here.

Black Girl Sunscreen

I have yet to try it, but I hear so many great things about it! I’m not going to lie, the name alone is calling my name. It’s so cool that companies are making products just for brown skin! It feels so nice to be included.

Sunscreen Tips

Remember, babies need sunscreen too, but it’s best to apply when your baby is older than 6 months old.

If you plan to be in the sun, your baby needs sunscreen daily. In addition to sunscreen, utilize clothing and shade to protect your baby’s delicate skin.

How often should I reapply?

Reapply sunscreen based on your activity. The rule of thumb is generally every 2 hours. However, if you are getting in and out of the water, you may want to apply more often.

The sun’s rays are hottest from 10 AM- 3PM. (I grew up hearing my mom telling me to wait until after 3 before I could play outside.)

The sun’s UV rays can be damaging to all skin-even brown skin. There is a misconception that melanin is an instant protector against the sun’s rays and sunscreen isn’t necessary. Although people with more melanin are not as prone to sunburns, UV rays can still cause signifcant damage. 

Finding a sunscreen that doesn’t make brown skin look ashy and provides non-toxic protection can be challenging. Share this list with someone that is looking for some sunscreen options!

I’m a middle school counselor and I’m counting down the days until summer break.

I don’t even feel bad when my mom friends roll their eyes in disdain while I giggle with glee thinking about sleeping in all summer long.

The rest of you parents aren’t quite as excited as I am. It’s tough to build a closer relationship with your child when you’re fighting against Fortnight, Snapchat and everything else.

 

 

I get it. Parenting has becoming harder with the invention of social media, 24/7 streaming of anything you want and YouTube.

Especially with teenagers. They seem to be glued to their phones.

I promise that even through their bratty behavior, deep sighs and eye rolls, they really still want to have a good relationship with you.

Here are a few simple ways you can build a closer relationship with your child this summer:

Family Game Night

Before my kids were born, I always envisioned having family game night with them. My husband and I tried to play CandyLand with our girls when they were 5 & 3. It didn’t go over so well. We had tantrums when they lost, or they would lose the pieces.

Now that they are a little older, they love playing games! On occasion we still have the sore loser, but they are interested in learning the rules…and how to win.

There are so many options for games….strategy games that involve more thought, fun games that make you laugh and games that let you get up and move.

Take your kids game night shopping and find something that they are excited about playing.

Cell Phone/Tablet Free Dinner

Now if you are requiring your kids to keep the electronics away from the dinner table, then you’ve got to follow suit too.

Use dinner time as a time to engage with your kids. Ask them about their hopes, their dreams or about their day in general.

I know, teenagers sometimes make conversation painful. You feel like you have to pull things out of them. Don’t give up. Keep pulling.

Kids are starting to lose basic conversation skills because they are glued to their electronics. They don’t know how to read facial expressions or deal with conflict because they simply don’t practice it. Consider leaving the electronics away from the table.

Turn the T.V. Off & Go Outside

One of the benefits of outside play is that it is an easy way to fight against obesity. Although technology is a wonderful way to entertain your children, it can also be harmful if you child is not engaging in any face to face interactions.

Sitting in front of the t.v or tablet all day can also make children lazy.

As the temperatures rise, taking a day trip to the beach, spending the afternoon at the pool, or riding bikes.

If the temperatures are too hot during the day, take walks in your neighborhood in the evenings. The quiet time allows you to reconnect with your children without the distractions of television.

Pick an Activity to Do Together

Have you always wanted to put together a 1,000 piece puzzle?

What about learning how to sew or knit? Or collecting eggs at a local farm?

Find an activity that you and your child can actively engage in together. Hands on activities are great for kids who learn best by doing.

The summer doesn’t have to be a time that you and the kids dread.  Map out some activities that you and your kids can do TOGETHER, and watch your relationship grow!

These tips can work for your spouse too!!

 

There are so many lessons that your daughters need you to teach them. 

How do I know? Because I was a daughter once. 

I remember my parents dropping knowledge on me and feeling annoyed. I got tired of the speeches, warnings and reminders. I wanted them to trust me to figure it out on my own. 

And then I grew up. 

I quickly realized that I needed every….single…word.

And secretly, even though I was often annoyed by the conversations, I knew that my parents loved me. 

When I was old enough to date, I had a standard that was taught to me by my parents. 

Now that I’m a mom to two little girls, there are so many lessons that I want to teach them–many of them passed on to me by my parents. 

So here are a few lessons that your daughters need you to teach them:

Affirmation that she is enough

Social media makes parenting a tad tricker. Scrolling through perfectly curated squares on Instagram can make one feel like the fantasy world of celebrities and influencers is everyday life.

As an influencer myself, a lot of thought goes into what I post on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter & my other social media profiles. I’m also guilty of playing the comparison game with other bloggers. But then I have to remind myself that I am unique in what I provide, and my story can’t be someone else’s.

Your daughters need to hear you say that they are enough, just the way they are.

Conversations about personal body safety

In an era of me too, we are seeing a large number of women step forward to talk abou the damage that was done to them. They have been talking about how males have tried to force themselves on them as children, and even as adults.

As a school counselor, part of my duties involve talking about personal body saftey and teaching kids how to stand up for themselves. I know the conversation can seem a little scary, but it’s so necessary. Don’t overcomplicate things, just remind your daughter that her body belongs to her. Your daughter needs to hear you say that no one has a right to make her feel uncomfortable with their words or actions (touching) without her consent.

And there is NOTHING wrong with a forceful no. Her beauty and charm do not cause others to lack self control.

Conversations about money & budgeting

Part of leaving a legacy for your children is more than the good deeds and nice things that people have to say about you. Even if you are making a smaller amount of money than you’d like, learning how to live frugally can help you save and move towards a lifestyle that you dream of.

Living paycheck to paycheck your entire life is not the way to leave a legacy of a healthy relationship with money for your children.

You can start early by bringing an envelope of money to the grocery store with your allotted amount and teaching your children how to stay on budget. Start allowing your children to pick out and pay for things in the store with money they have been gifted or earned. This shows them how to be fiscally responsible, and how to stay within a budget.

How to get along with difficult people

One of the lessons your daughters need you to teach them is how to get along with difficult people.

Just because we are kind to everyone, doesn’t mean that they will be kind back. Some people will dislike you simply because you are you. It doesn’t always make sense.

Your daughter needs to hear you say that everyone is not likeable, but learning how to work with/get along with difficult people will take them far in life.

Learning how to get along with difficult people is a skill that will last a lifetime.

I’m sorry

As parents, we don’t always get it right. We mess up. Sometimes blame the wrong kid.

We yell and take things out on them and sometimes we simply fail our kids by not being present.

In those moments, instead of seeking perfection, we simply need to say I’m sorry.

Saying I’m sorry teaches our kids how to bounce back from a mistake. It teaches them that there isn’t a perfect standard to look up to. No matter how badly we mess up, our children still love us and want to emulate our behavior. What better model for behavior than saying I’m sorry?

One of the lessons your daughters need you to teach them is that it’s okay to evolve as a parent. It’s okay to not have all the answers, and to be actively seeking to do the best you can do. 

 

As a middle school counselor, I know what it’s like to work with teenagers. I’m even pretty comfortable with toddlers. But parenting a 7-year-old? That’s new territory for me.

My oldest is 7 years old, and this year I’ve seen qualities in her that have made my raise my eyebrows. The trickiest part is determining what is actually her, and what things is she picking up from school and other places.

My husband and I try to keep her pretty sheltered (by some people’s definitions). We don’t let her watch too much t.v. and when she does, we are monitoring what shows she is watching. She definitely is NOT free to peruse YouTube on her own (i.e. the whole momo challenge and all the other dangers out there).

Parenting a 7-year-old means:

They ask  A LOT of questions

What time are we going to eat? Our food is taking so long to get ready! I can’t wait for field day! Are we taking swimming lessons AGAIN this summer? Why doesn’t my sister have to do that? Why does the baby always cry when you leave the room?

They begin to question your authority

Sometimes when I tell my  to do something, so asks me why she has to do it or why her sister doesn’t have to do it. I use to see red immediately, but I realized that some of her questioning is genuine. She is trying to learn the world around her.

When I was a kid, it was a cardinal sin to ask your parents questions about most anything when they told you to do something.

Trust me, there are times to say because I told you so, but I’ve changed my thinking and started explaining more.

They want every toy they see

Kids in this generation are marketed to 24/7. Not only do they have access to t.v., but the internet shows kids their age reviewing toys.

And cartoons and use to only be on at certain times. Thanks to Netflix, Hulu & YouTube, you can see what you want, anytime you want.

You can’t escape it!

They begin to notice inconsistencies in what you tell them

If I’m unsure about our plans, I don’t tell her. I don’t want to disappoint her, or be reminded 10,000 times.

They can read (they get all up in your business)

You know what I mean. All up in the blue tooth when it rings in the van. Trying to figure out who is on the phone when it rings.

So here are a few tips to deal with their new “talents”:

Set firm boundaries

Your kids still want to be included in things–even if they are adult matters. When my husband and I are having conversations about bills, school, etc, my daughter frequently tries to interject and ask questions. She even tries to read my text messages when they come in.

We remind her that when mommy and daddy are talking, she has to wait her turn, and that every conversation isn’t about her or for her.

Taking different opportunities to engage in conversations with her helps to set those boundaries for her.

Have key parenting phrases to combat predictable behavior

When we go to Target or Walmart, my kids get the gimmies. Meaning they want every toy they see. To combat what we will face, I often remind my kids to be grateful for what they have.

Sometimes I ask my daughter, “What does mommy say when you are always asking for toys?”

When she repeats it back to me, I know that she is internalizing it more than me simply repeating myself over and over.

Get creative with discipline

Every child learns differently. Get to know your child and what works most effectively for them. Instead of always sending them to time out, try sending their toys to time out.

In lieu of a spanking for every indiscretion, try taking away a privilege.

Being creative with discipline keeps your kids on their toes, and ensures that the punishment fits the behavior you are trying to address.

Apologize

We don’t always have to gether as parents–trust me, I sure don’t. Sometimes I make mistakes. I yell too much. I punish the wrong child.

I have bad times. Apologizing models for your children how to handle when you are wrong. Sometimes our kids see us as superhuman, and a simple apology brings it down to earth for them.

And it humbles you.

Monitor their activity online

I cannot say this one enough. Parents got a little scare with the momo challenge and all the kids YouTube stuff. A few years ago I took an Internet safety class. For some reason, we’ve become really trusting of the Internet because the word “kids” or “children’s” is out there. There are sick people in the world who want to lure children in and are waiting for parents who are not monitoring their children’s activity.

Make sure that you take time to talk your 7-year-old about what to do if they see something inappropriate online. You don’t want them to hide it from you because they are embarrassed. Having these conversations keeps the lines of communications open early so that you can transition smoothly into pre-teen and teenage years.

Know a friend struggling with parenting a 7-year-old? Share this post with them!