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Tips & Tricks

10 Awesome Ways To Think Outside the Brick With Legos

January 26, 2021 by Jessica Moore Leave a Comment

There is no doubt about it… we are a proud Lego household! From my 14-year-old to my 7-year-old (and Mom and Dad too!), you’ll find Legos in bedrooms, the play room, on backpacks, playing on video game consoles and tablets, on t-shirts, ringing alarm clocks, on the wrist, and just about anywhere else you can imagine.  But while building new sets with the instruction manual is fun enough, there are so many other ways to enjoy these amazing toys as well.  Here are 10 totally awesome ways to think outside the brick with legos!

Halfpintpeeps.com just gets kids. Find countless ideas that will be fun for you AND them! Keep your kids busy and creative around the house with these original Lego ideas!

Ways To Think Outside The Brick With Legos

1. Run, Lego, Run!

Develop those engineering skills by designing a vertical Lego run maze.  Challenge Little Builders to think of ways to incorporate moving parts and levers.  Frugal Fun 4 Boys and Girls offers some great tips to get you started.

Ways To Think Outside The Brick With Legos

2. Zip Zap

Look out below! This Lego zip line is such a perfect building project to teach your Little Adventurers about gravity and the laws of motion.  Who said Sir Newton couldn’t come along for some fun and laughter!?  Source.

Ways To Think Outside The Brick With Legos

3. Bridge the Gap

Bridge the gap with this STEM activity.  See if your Aspiring Engineers can defy the laws of gravity by constructing a bridge worthy of it’s heaviest foes.  This is another perfect activity for teaching about forces and simple machines as well.  Read more here.

Ways To Think Outside The Brick With Legos

4. Monster Mash Match

Grab your toddler for a game of Monster Match.  Start by having your child create colorful paper bag monsters with open mouths.  Then, learn all about colors by placing color-matching Legos in the appropriate monster’s mouth. Cookie monster has nothing on these monster friends!  Read more from Toddler Approved.

Ways To Think Outside The Brick With Legos

5. Non Dispensable

This great activity is non dispensable for sure!  Teach Young Builders all about simple machines with this candy dispenser project.  Get the how-to here.

Ways To Think Outside The Brick With Legos

6. AlphaLegos

Keep Little Learners busy mastering their ABCs with this Lego activity.  Have them replicate the Lego letters shown on cards by building one themselves.  How many words can you think of to spell with that letter while you’re constructing what you see?  Get the free printable letter cards here.

Ways To Think Outside The Brick With Legos

7. Count On It!

Little Mathematicians will have no problem mastering their counting skills with the help of Duplo Lego bricks!  SHOW them representations of each digit by counting them out and stacking them in order.  Similarly, 7-year-old and above can master their times tables by stacking Lego arrays and seeing how multiplying two numbers gives you a new product.  Such a more exciting way to learn math than with worksheets!

Ways To Think Outside The Brick With Legos

8. Car Racers

Channel extra energy onto the racetrack for the afternoon.  Have your Mini Mario Andretti’s design race cars to duke it out in some epic car races.  Use balloons to give the racers their acceleration.  Don’t miss the opportunity to teach about forces and motion with this fun activity!

Ways To Think Outside The Brick With Legos

9. Foosball

Athletes and competitors will enjoy this Lego build.  Have them construct a DIY foosball game and then play for additional hours of more fun.  Get a kick out of this activity here.

Ways To Think Outside The Brick With Legos

10. Weigh Your Options

Kids won’t need to weigh their options when it comes to building a neat Lego balance.  What a cool way to learn about measurement and different metric scales.  Get the instructions here.

Ways To Think Outside The Brick With Legos

Can you come up with other ways to think outside the brick with legos? Leave a comment below.

Filed Under: Crafts, DIY, Kid Stuff, Tips & Tricks Tagged With: Amazing Crafts for Kids, Crafts for Kids, Fun Lego Crafts for Kids, Kid Activities, Kid Crafts, Lego Crafts, Lego Crafts for Kids

Birth Stat Signs: Personalized Nursery Decor

January 15, 2021 by Jessica Moore Leave a Comment

The newest big thing in baby nurseries is personalized nursery decor. Birth stat signs take your baby’s nursery to a whole new level. Today’s post has inspiration to help you choose personalized nursery decor you can definitely live with. Once the baby grows, their name or birth stat sign will become an heirloom to treasure. Here are some of my favorite birth stats nursery decor ideas.

Looking for a personalized touch for your baby's nursery. Birth stats nursery decor is exactly what you need. Show off your baby's debut with cute signs you will love to display.

Birth Stats Nursery Decor

At Etsy, you will find tons of handmade, personalized nursery decor to love! One of my favorites is this personalized sign from Forever Wedding Crafts. This is a custom sign made from birch wood, and the price is insanely reasonable!

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You will also find this custom birth details wall art made by Little Lady Print Shop. This is a custom printable file which is sent to you for printing. There are a whole slew of colors to choose from, in a variety of sizes.

Personalized Nursery | Personalized Nursery Decor | Personalized Nursery Decor Ideas | Nursery Decor Ideas | Nursery Decor | Nursery Decor Personalization | Birth Stats Nursery Decor
Personalized Nursery | Personalized Nursery Decor | Personalized Nursery Decor Ideas | Nursery Decor Ideas | Nursery Decor | Nursery Decor Personalization | Birth Stats Nursery Decor

A growth chart is another option for personalized nursery decor. Wayfair has a ton of options to choose from, so no matter what your nursery theme is, there is a personalized growth chart to match.

Personalized Nursery | Personalized Nursery Decor | Personalized Nursery Decor Ideas | Nursery Decor Ideas | Nursery Decor | Nursery Decor Personalization | Birth Stats Nursery Decor

Amazon is yet another place to find personalized nursery decor. I love this personalized decal you can easily install on any wall in the baby’s nursery.

A picture frame is a great way to showcase baby’s birth stats in a way you can save forever. This is a solid wood frame that is made to last.

Personalized Nursery | Personalized Nursery Decor | Personalized Nursery Decor Ideas | Nursery Decor Ideas | Nursery Decor | Nursery Decor Personalization | Birth Stats Nursery Decor

At Oopsy Daisy, find lots of unique styles of personalized nursery decor, like this Happy Animal Herd personalized wall art. This is a large 24×18 canvas with a resin finish that gives your personalized wall art a really beautiful finish.

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Finally, check out Paper Source for personalized prints perfect for baby’s nursery. Their designs are printed on #130 weight paper that is made of 30% post-consumer recycled content. If you are concerned about being environmentally friendly, these prints fit the bill.

Personalized Nursery | Personalized Nursery Decor | Personalized Nursery Decor Ideas | Nursery Decor Ideas | Nursery Decor | Nursery Decor Personalization | Birth Stats Nursery Decor

Now that your nursery is all set up, don’t forget to check out my post on how to survive your first month as a new mom.

Filed Under: Babies, DIY, Kid Stuff, Tips & Tricks Tagged With: Baby Nursery Decor, Nursery Decor, Nursery Decor Ideas, Nursery Ideas, Personalized Nursery, Personalized Nursery Decor, Personalized Nursery Ideas

The Absolute Best Pets For Kids

December 19, 2020 by Jessica Moore Leave a Comment

So your kids are begging for a pet? There are great reasons to get a pet, including helping your kids to learn more responsibility. But it can be hard to know what kind of pet is right for your kids. Today’s information on the absolute best pets for kids will help you make what can be a tricky decision a little easier.

The Best Pets For Kids

Dogs are the number one choice in pets for many families the world over. There’s plenty of reasons for that. Kids tend to bond with dogs like no other, and dogs are wonderful companions for kids and adults. Just know that there are important considerations to make first:

So your kids are begging for a pet but you don't know what the best pets for kids are. You're in luck. We have a list of the best pets for kids. Dogs top the list at number 1. See what else you can get.
  • A dog {particularly a new puppy} requires a lot of care and training.
  • Research what breeds are best for families, because some are not well-suited for young kids.
So your kids are begging for a pet but you don't know what the best pets for kids are. You're in luck. We have a list of the best pets for kids. Guinea pigs are a great choice.

Some families adore having guinea pigs as pets. Do you know that guinea pigs are actually quite intelligent, and will respond to a child? They also handle well because they generally don’t bite. Guinea pigs are very social creatures! One of the considerations to be aware of is that guinea pigs need an abundant supply of vitamin C to be healthy.

So your kids are begging for a pet but you don't know what the best pets for kids are. You're in luck. We have a list of the best pets for kids. Birds are a great choice but they do require a bit of work.

One of the best pets for kids is a bird. Many kids enjoy birds, because they’re colorful to look at and fun to play with. Some types of birds learn melodies and will copy certain behaviors from your child. But be aware that some birds are noisy. It’s also necessary to clean the bird cage at least weekly–and it can get pretty dirty.

So your kids are begging for a pet but you don't know what the best pets for kids are. You're in luck. We have a list of the best pets for kids. Cats are always a good choice.

Cats are up there on the list of best pets for kids, probably right after the dogs! The main difference between having a dog for a pet, or having a cat, is the playful level. Dogs are definitely more playful than cats, but cats still like to cuddle sometimes {on their terms}. Cats are mainly independent, which is a bonus since they tend to take care of themselves. The downside of a cat is the chance of begin scratched, as well as changing the litter box.

Whichever pet you decide is best for your kids, don’t be afraid of the additional maintenance and care. Just add things like cleaning the litter box to your family chore chart!

Filed Under: Kid Stuff, Parenting, Tips & Tricks Tagged With: Best Pets For Kids, Kid Stuff, Kids, Parenting, pet owner, Pets, pets for kids, responsibility

10 DIY Swings to Keep Kids Entertained All Summer

December 18, 2020 by Jessica Moore Leave a Comment

Summer is on the way, and this means that your kids will need something to do. Why not tempt them to enjoy the great outdoors with one of these 10 DIY swings for kids? Any one of these swings is sure to keep them entertained all summer.

DIY Swings For Kids

DIY Swings For Kids

Skycurve Swing

If you have more than one kiddo, consider hanging a Skycurve swing. It features a curved platform, one that can support as many as four kids. Your kids can lie down, stand or sit on this fun and unique swing.

DIY Swings For Kids

Hugglepod Hideaway Swing

Hugglepods are cozy little hideaways that are sure to keep your kids happy and entertained for hours. When you hang them from a sturdy tree branch, they become a magical swing. Don’t forget to pick up a few sturdy clothing items for your kids to play in this summer from Gymboree. The site has clothes for boys and girls.

DIY Swings For Kids

Swinging Lounger

A swinging lounger is ideal for your little bookworm. Hang this lounger outside so your kid can feel the warm breeze while tucking into a good book. Designed to cushion the natural curves of the body, this lounger is comfortable and good for the soul.

DIY Swings For Kids

Web Swing

For something a bit more industrial, hang a web swing. Your kids can hang out on their bellies or sit up for a leisurely ride. The size and shape of the web swing allows several kids to swing at once, decreasing fights and inspiring inclusive playtime.

DIY Swings For Kids

 Skateboard Swing

If you’ve got an old skateboard lying around, turn it into a swing with a little bit of rope. You’ll need a drill bit and a couple of dowels. The dowels make the swing safer because they give your kids hand support.

DIY Swings For Kids

Airplane Swing

When it comes to DIY kids crafts, homemade swings are especially fun. To inspire your kids’ creativity, hang an airplane swing. Your kids will spend hours flying through the air as they pretend to be a stunt double or a commercial pilot.

DIY Swings For Kids

 Slated Wood Swing

A slated wood swing adjusts to the shape of the person sitting in it, making it perfect for kids and adults. This type of swing is easy to put together. It’s also safe and strong.

DIY Swings For Kids

Round Wooden Swing

If you prefer to install something with a traditional appearance, then make one of these round wooden swings. Paint it bright colors to add a touch of stylistic whimsy to your yard. A round wooden swing is sure to keep your kids busy for hours.

DIY Swings For Kids

 Huge Platform Swing

PVC pipe and rope can be used to construct a huge platform swing, one that is sure to delight your kids. Not only is a huge platform swing the perfect outdoor DIY project, but it is also the perfect place to take a nap.

DIY Swings For Kids

 A Tire Swing

Traditional tire swings offer hours of fun. Affordable and easy to install, this DIY kids craft project can be completed in a few hours since all it requires is a chain or a rope and a tire. To make it unique, paint the tire a bright color.

DIY Swings For Kids

We came across amazing swings at What Moms Love and Cute DIY Projects. Which one of these DIY swings for kids will you add to your yard?

Filed Under: DIY, Kid Stuff, Tips & Tricks Tagged With: DIY playground ideas, DIY Swings, DIY Swings for Kids

Christmas Gift Ideas for Your Kids’ Friends

December 16, 2020 by Jessica Moore Leave a Comment

If you’ve ever reached the last day of school before Christmas break, only to have your child announce that he needs some gifts to give his friends, you know how frustrating that last minute shopping trip can be! So today’s post is all about helping you be prepared for little emergencies with Christmas gift ideas for kids friends.

Christmas Gift Ideas For Kids Friends

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Get your craft on and help your kids make felt ornaments for their friends. It’s always nice to give and receive a homemade gift, and that goes for kids too. Teach them how to make something new and learn the art of giving gifts with heart.

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No one would complain about receiving a gift bag of chocolates, of any kind! My kids also like to buy giant sized bars of chocolate, wrap them in cute wrapping paper, and attach a cute tag. Their friends love it!

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If you are planning to make homemade cookies for the neighbors this year, just make another batch or two while you’re at it. Let the kids help decorate the ones that they’ll give to their friends. It’s a tasty gift that took just a little bit of thought and effort.

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Purchase giant mugs and fill them with all the things needed to make a really great cup of hot chocolate. That could include hot chocolate mix packets, marshmallows, peppermint sticks, and chocolate chips. This is a fun gift for your kids’ friends that they can enjoy all winter long.

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Tween and teen girls love to make and give homemade bath bombs. It’s also a great teacher gift idea! You’ll find some good bath bomb recipes at Sunlit Spaces.

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For gifts for your kids’ friends on a budget, don’t be afraid to check out Dollar Tree. They’ve got fun stuff for kids’ Christmas gifts, including 300 to 500 count puzzles, sets of Army figures, bubble bath and body lotions, and more. Give your kids a set amount and let them do the shopping!

Filed Under: Crafts, DIY, Kid Stuff, party, Tips & Tricks Tagged With: Christmas Gift Ideas, Gift Ideas, Gift Ideas for Kids, Gift Ideas for Your Kids' Friends, Gift Ideas that are Kid Friendly, Kid Friendly Gift Ideas, Kids' Gifts

How To Tell Your Kids About Santa Without Looking Like A Liar

December 12, 2020 by Jessica Moore Leave a Comment

As kids get older, it gets harder to keep the Santa secret. But how to tell your kids about Santa without looking like a liar? That’s a tough one, and a lot of parents are afraid of approaching the subject for fear of their kid’s reaction. Today we have some good advice for talking to your kids about Santa, so you can be prepared instead of scared.

How To Tell Your Kids About SantaIf you have kids, you know how tricky it can be figuring out how to tell your kids about Santa. Here are the best tips on how to tell them without looking like a liar.

Look for the signs that your kids are ready to talk about it

Have you been getting questions from your kids about who Santa really is? Or have they just out-and-out asked you if you are Santa? These are telltale signs that it is time to talk to them about Santa. It’s definitely easier said than done, though! We all like to keep belief in Santa alive and strong, because it’s fun. But it’s also a good idea to let them in on it before they hear it at school, or get teased for still believing.

It’s helpful to know that the average age when a child starts to question whether or not Santa is real is somewhere in the years between 7 and 10, depending on the child. When your child does ask you if Santa is real, ask him what he thinks before you answer. Your child’s thoughts can help guide your discussion.

Santa is a big deal to kids, so it can be hard trying to figure out how to tell your kids about Santa. It will make the whole process so much easier.

Be ready for a range of possible emotions

When your child hears that Santa isn’t real, her reaction may vary from anger or sadness to excitement. She may feel anger that you lied, or she may feel sadness that Santa isn’t real. Some kids feel like being let in on the secret is a sign that they are growing up–you can help them feel some responsibility to help keep the secret from younger siblings!

Are you stressing over trying to tell your kid that Santa isn't real? Here are the best tips on how to tell your kids about Santa. They'll help so much!

Help your child transition from believing in Santa to becoming Santa

How to tell your kids about Santa is a question some parents love to take on, and actually look forward to it. Plan ahead for this important talk. Take your child somewhere special, just the two of you–such as out for lunch or a shopping trip. Explain that she is getting old enough to “help” with Santa, and this is a big responsibility! Little kids get to experience the magic of believing in Santa, but older kids and adults get to be Santa–and that’s the most fun of all!

Not only do your kids now get to help be Santa at home, but in the community. Challenge them to think about the spirit of Santa Claus and how they can help spread it around to those who really need it. Teach them to notice the people around them, and watch for opportunities to “be Santa” to people who need it.

Great news–if your older kids help with Santa, they can also help with your Elf on the Shelf!

Filed Under: Kid Stuff, Parenting, Tips & Tricks Tagged With: children, how to, how to tell your kids about Santa, Kid Stuff, Parenting, Parenting Hacks, Parenting Tips and Tricks, Santa

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