I know I’m one lucky lady — I can work around the house or in the garden by myself for a while and Claire happily entertains herself building contraptions and musical instruments. I’m very, VERY thankful for such an independent kid. One morning, I was weeding my neglected garden and heard some serious banging coming from the family room. I peeked around the corner to … Continue reading Bing! Bang! Boom! Homemade Instruments and Noisemakers
Blanket forts, tree houses, tucked away closets…it’s obvious that the kiddie crowd loves to have places and spaces to call their own. Claire is no exception. Santa dropped this cardboard house off at Christmas and for the following 4 weeks Claire meticulously colored and embellished it in her own style. Now if you’ve spent any time at all here at the blog, you know … Continue reading The Happy Monkey House
There’s a great article on Wired.com by GeekDad Jonathan Liu about the 5 Best Toys of All Time. While I wholeheartedly agree about the joy of sticks, boxes, twine and above all dirt — there is a glaring omission from his most excellent article: Tape. And lots of it. Case in point: Claire’s version of London Bridge. Constructed completely on her own in a quiet … Continue reading Why I should buy stock in scotch (tape that is)
I’m always inspired by Valerie over at Frugal Family Fun, she’s constantly coming up with cute and creative ideas that involve office supplies. So yesterday, when I took a trip to Staples (after my wireless card jumped off the bed and broke into 43 pieces) I made sure to take a quick spin around looking for crafty goodies. I hit the jackpot! Have you seen … Continue reading Check your office store for cheap art supplies!
There are days when we’re stuck inside all day – due to weather, illness or just my general lack of enthusiasm about completing laundry. On those days, I find it pays to have a special “something” up your sleeve. My newest device? The sensory bin. I knew that kids went gaga over those bean filled tubs in the preschool room where I used to work so … Continue reading Keeping A Toddler Happy Indoors
Chalk In My Pocket 