MOMMY BLOG EXPERT

Still Hope Movie Inspired by True Stories Review

2026-02-03T09:00:00.000-08:00

Movies

A Powerful Film Sheds Light on Urgent Crisis

Many thanks to Studio 523 for providing access to screen this movie before release for the purpose of review. Opinions are 100% my own.

The new film Still Hope, which is based on real-life survival experiences, opens in theaters nationwide on February 5. It shines a much-needed spotlight on the disturbing existence of human trafficking in America today, particularly the abduction of girls and young women. It's something many parents know little about, and if they are aware of it, few moms and dads are comfortable discussing with their daughters the dangers of meeting strangers online.

The Storyline

As the movie directed by Richie Johns begins, what appears to be just another ordinary family story about a wholesome 16 year-old girl named Hope (played by Luna Rivera) quickly unfolds into something much deeper, darker, and ultimately inspirational.

At its heart, Still Hope is about a teen from a loving, close-knit family who is kidnapped and forced into prostitution by someone she thought she could trust. The film doesn’t just tell a story, it reveals to the audience the true horror of the very real human trafficking that hides in plain sight across small towns and big cities alike in the United States.

Hope is just another typical teen when she meets a young man online and agrees to meet him in person. Tragically, he's not the nice guy she expected and he turns out to be a predator. Quickly she's forcibly taken against her will away from her family into the dark world of prostitution and human exploitation for many months.

The dramatization of abuse and torture by those who kidnapped the teen sets the stage for what happens after she escapes her captors. The filmmakers then intentionally shift focus of the narrative to the long winding road to rehabilitation, to her physical and emotional healing as a survivor and to Hope's ultimate reconnection with her family.

One of the film's most poignant themes is how trauma not only affects the victim directly, it also challenges and reshapes family relationships. Hope’s rehabilitation isn’t just physical, it’s emotional, mental, and spiritual. She struggles with trust, nightmares, guilt, and a deep distrust of men, including her own father, whose embrace once meant safety but now reminds her of everything she’s been through and lost.

The Reality of Human Trafficking Today

To truly appreciate Still Hope, it helps to understand the scale of the very real societal crisis it portrays. While precise numbers are difficult to pin down, credible sources show that human trafficking is a major issue in the United States.

In 2024, the US National Human Trafficking Hotline received more than 32,000 reports of possible trafficking incidents, involving over 21,000 potential victims including thousands of minors
Estimates suggest between 14,500 and 17,500 children are trafficked into the U.S. each year from other countries with about 80% of the victims being woman and girls
Globally, millions are held in forced labor or sexual exploitation at any given time

These statistics are sadly quite realistic. They reflect the lives of real people like Hope which is why seeing Still Hope is so important. It reminds us that trafficking doesn't just happen somewhere else, it can happen in our backyards to kids living in seemingly safe communities.

Parent-Child Discussion Safety Tips

Without a doubt, due to the subject matter, Still Hope isn't easy to watch either for parents alone or for moms and dads to watch together with teenage children. However, it opens the door to an important conversation to have with kids which can be life-changing and potentially prevent experiences like these happening to vulnerable people, particularly girls and young women.

How to talk to kids about stranger danger

Start early While minimizing the grim details, kids do need some awareness that not everyone online or in person is who they claim to be and could be dangerous
Teach digital intelligence Friends online should be treated like strangers until trust can be established in verifiable ways
Practice scenarios Reinforce that it's okay to say "no," to check in often with family and to trust their instincts
Open the dialogue Create a home where your teens feel safe telling you about uncomfortable things they're worried about without fear of judgment

Final Thoughts

Still Hope isn’t just another film to see on the big screen that both parents and their teens will relate to. It’s educational, emotional, and deeply human. It forces us to look at a hidden community crisis through the lens of one family’s suffering and resilience. And in doing so, it offers something rare: not just a movie, but a call to awareness, compassion, and action. For certain, this film will stay with those who watch it long after the credits roll.

About Still Hope

Buy tickets now to see Still Hope in theaters starting February 5 to help build awareness about human trafficking. A portion of proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to organizations that care for the recovery of trafficking victims. Visit the official website to learn more and to see the movie trailer.

Surviving Young Kids Home for School Vacation

2026-01-12T09:00:00.000-08:00

Parenting

Guest Post

by Jen Wirt, Mom of 2

CEO and Founder, Coral Care

Tips to Manage Children When Routine Disappears

Whether it's winter break or summer vacation, things looks magical from the outside. With school vacation and holidays, kids are home, the days are slower, and there is more time for family.

But for many children (as well as their moms, dads and caregivers) those who thrive on predictability find that the sudden loss of structure can feel overwhelming. School provides natural anchors for kids. There are clear transitions, built-in movement breaks, visual cues, and adults who guide the flow of the day. When all of that disappears overnight, many boys and girls struggle to stay regulated.

Parents often describe these holiday breaks as a mix of joy and chaos. You may notice more emotional outbursts, more clinginess, more sibling conflict, or more difficulty following directions. None of this means your child is being “difficult.” It simply means the brain is working harder.

With a little structure and creativity, you can help your youngsters feel secure and grounded, even when school is out. The goal is not to recreate the school day but rather to create predictable patterns so kids feels safe and know what to expect.

Create simple daily anchors to give the day shape

Anchors are consistent touchpoints that happen every day, in the same order. They do not require a strict timeline. They simply give a rhythm to the day.

Examples of anchors:

Morning: breakfast, get dressed, choose two activities for the day
Midday: outside time, lunch, quiet activity
Evening: bath, reading, lights out

These predictable patterns lower anxiety and help children navigate transitions more smoothly. Even kids who appear flexible on the surface benefit from anchors because they keep the nervous system steady.

Visual schedules reduce stress, increase independence

During school, children rely heavily on visual cues. When those cues disappear, a visual schedule at home fills that gap.

A visual schedule can be:

drawings
simple words
sticky notes
pictures printed from the internet
a whiteboard on the fridge

For kids ages 3 to 8, visuals provide clarity in a way spoken words alone cannot. A child may resist “time to clean up,” but when it is clearly written or pictured as the next step in their day, the transition feels more manageable.

A simple school holiday break schedule might look like:

1. Breakfast

2. Art project

3. Outside time

4. Lunch

5. Free play

6. Movie or quiet reading

7. Dinner

8. Bath and bedtime routine

You can encourage your kids to take turns to help build the schedule each morning, which gives them a feeling of control and lowers resistance later.

Movement is the foundation of regulation

Kids rely on movement to regulate their bodies. Without recess, gym class, and hallway transitions, their energy builds up quickly. Movement is not just “getting the wiggles out." It is how the brain resets.

Physical activity ideas that work indoors or outside:

scooter rides or sidewalk chalk obstacle courses
freeze dance
animal movement games (bear crawls, frog hops, crab walks)
hallway bowling using stuffed animals
kids yoga or breathing exercises
pillow jumping or couch cushion obstacle courses

Movement should appear at least two or three times a day during school vacations. When kids move, focus improves, emotions stabilize, and cooperation increases.

Create a cozy calm space for emotional resets

School breaks, especially during the winter holidays, often brings bigger emotions. A designated calm-down space helps kids learn to notice when they are overwhelmed and gives them a place to reset.

Possible items for a calm-down space:

blankets and pillows
a weighted lap pad
books or sensory-friendly toys
a soft lamp or twinkle lights
noise-reducing headphones

This does not need to be elaborate. Even a small corner with a blanket and a book creates a sense of retreat.

Use theme days to add excitement, organization

Theme days are a fun, budget-friendly way to create structure. They give the day direction, help kids understand the plan, and make long stretches of unstructured time feel manageable.

One of our favorites: Princess Day

princess themed craft
build a castle with blocks or Magnatiles
dress-up dance party
princess “tea time” snack
visual schedule showing each activity

The best theme days build on your child’s interests. Other ideas include:

Dinosaur Day
Chef Day
Art Studio Day
Construction Day
Science Day
Winter Wonderland Day
Superhero Training Camp

Theme days also naturally incorporate movement, creativity, and connection, which helps regulate the nervous system.

Winter and summer breaks may highlight new concerns

With more time at home, parents may notice patterns they didn't see during the school year.

This might include:

difficulty with transitions
emotional outbursts that feel disproportionate
sensory sensitivities
difficulty following multi-step directions
challenges with fine motor tasks
frustration tolerance struggles
speech or articulation concerns

If you are noticing any of these, you are not alone. School breaks often brings clarity because you are seeing your child in a more unstructured environment.

Coral Care offers in-home pediatric therapy and a free developmental screener that helps you understand whether OT, SLP, or PT support may benefit your child.

Take the free screener

Book an evaluation

Or call or text: 617-463-9342

Extended breaks from school do not have to feel chaotic. With a few predictable routines, moments of movement, visual anchors, and playful, low-cost activities, you can help your child feel steady and make this time together more joyful.

About the Author

Jen Wirt is the founder and CEO of Coral Care, a platform helping families access high-quality pediatric therapy, without the waitlists, confusing systems, or insurance hurdles that too often stand in the way. Nearly 1 in 5 children has a developmental delay or disability. Jen’s work sits at the intersection of parental advocacy, early intervention, and healthcare innovation. She holds a BS in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Rochester, an MS in Engineering and Innovation Management from Brown University, and an MBA from Babson College. Jen lives in Westchester, NY with her husband, two daughters, and two dogs.

About Coral Care

The spark for Coral Care came from Jen’s own experience: when her infant daughter showed signs of developmental delays, Jen quickly realized how difficult it was to get timely, in-network support. What should’ve been a straightforward process felt impossible. She created Coral Care to change that—for her family and for the thousands of others navigating similar challenges.

Coral Care connects families with trusted speech, occupational, and physical therapists for in-home sessions, while also supporting clinicians in building sustainable private practices. For more information about Coral Care visit the organization's official website.

Holiday Party Dress Jewelry Accessory Inspo

2025-12-16T11:00:00.000-08:00

Style

by Janis Brett Elspas, Editor

Mommy Blog Expert

MBE partnered with Responsival, post contains affiliate links

Gold Chains, Sparkles, Bows Trending for the Holidays

There's no better time than now that calls for more festive dressing up for parties, celebrations and all other special occasions than during the holidays.

Sparkling Sequin Styling is Hot this Season

This holiday season, gold jewelry, sparkles and beautiful details like rhinestone trims, sequins, ribbons and bows are all in high demand in women's clothing and accessories. As a girl who loves all the holiday glitter and bling, I could not be more excited to share my favorite picks for this season. Whether you're shopping for what to wear to the holiday office party, an elegant Hanukkah or Christmas gala, casual yuletide get together, or New Year's Eve bash, check out these glitzy, fun fashion finds I've discovered for you.

Festive Jewelry

Let's start with the basics to add some bling to your seasonal look. Riding on the popular continuing trend of layering gold necklaces of varying lengths and types which I absolutely love, this is the place to start your holiday wardrobe planning, shopping, and building.

Gold necklaces as foundational jewelry don't just to add that needed sparkle accent to whatever you're wearing. Whether it's a new sequin bedazzled dress or a piece from your existing wardrobe, a gold necklace or two can go with just about every style of holiday dress from casual to formal, boho to elegant, and simple to over-the-top glitzy.

The December holidays are the perfect time to elevate your style vibe with statement earrings, too. No matter which holiday you celebrate, there is something you'll appreciate in this jewelry category. I just love these sparkling over-sized menorah earrings for Hanukkah.

For those of you going to Christmas parties this season these rainbow rhinestone 2-inch Christmas tree earrings are perfect. Meanwhile, Disneyana collectible fans will want to check out these huge twinkling novel Disney Mickey Mouse Christmas Tree Earrings.

Don't just decorate your neck and ears, consider rounding out your jewelry ensemble with some holiday-inspired bracelets like this Tis the Season Bracelet Set or this pretty Gold Bow Crystal and Pearl Cocktail Ring.

Beautiful Holiday Clothing

One of the hottest picks of the season is the sequin mini skirt which can be dressed up or down with a sweater or blouse depending on the event. Dazzling fringed sequin mini dresses are also vibing during the holidays this year. Equally full of sparkle is the long sleeve sequin shift dress.

Ribbons and bows are also front and center in holiday dressing for the current season. You'll be the talk of the party in a Christmas Red Cutout Sleeve Bow Sweater that can be worn casually with your favorite jeans or dressed up to top a sequin skirt. For a more elegant, formal look to make your big party entrance this one shoulder white taffeta bow mini dress is a great choice for the holidays as well as for you to wear again year-round to other special occasions like weddings.

Holiday Handbags, Shoes and Accessories

A special handbag is another must-have holiday wardrobe find to go with your holiday outfits. My favorites include this boho rhinestone hobo shoulder bag which goes from day to evening with ease so you can take it to the office and then out to an evening on the town. Another look in basic black that I really like is this elegant cutout handle box clutch with a big bow with a removeable chain shoulder strap.

For something really special and sparkling for New Year's Eve parties, I'm leaning toward sparkling conversational bags from a designer brand I have bought several handbags from before. On my personal gift wish list is this stunning pink champagne on ice bag conversation starter that's handbeaded. I'd also like to own this white and gold beaded champagne toast crossbody handbag with removable bead star charm and gold chain strap. It's small but roomy enough to stash your iPhone or Android phone and few other essentials, keeping your phone handy for those Instagram-worthy holiday moments while you're enjoying all the festivities.

You're not going to want to forget the shoes either. These can definitely make or break your entire holidaty outfit. Among the season's plentiful collection of party shoes available, this pair of slingback flats with rhinestone side bows and these sweet rose gold glitter ballet ankle ribbon tie flats are my style. For other accessories to take your holiday party look to the next level, how about some black fishnet rhinestone tights which would look so beautful with a pair of black stilletos with rhinestone embellished bow and your own chosen holiday party dress. For dressing up a more casual look, I'm also loving these sequin furry lined slip on boots which are comfy and cozy, as well as festive and sparkling so they'd be great to wear with jeans, a denim skirt or boho maxi dress.

Holiday Inspired Shopping Now Underway

There are so many truly beautiful fashion and accessories that are calling your name and personal style and so many holiday sales with big savings to discover. If you haven't already planned what you'll be wearing to all the holiday events you're going to attend, now's the time to stop everything and go online shopping to have your outfit delivered to your doorstep or to order ahead of time to pick up in many stores nationwide.

Happy Holidays!

Little House Homecoming Movie Debut Review

2025-11-27T14:13:00.000-08:00

Movies

Little House Documentary Premieres Thanksgiving Weekend

The whole family is invited to gather around your flatscreen TV or monitor at home to watch the new documentary film Little House Homecoming exclusively on Trellis Virtual Cinema. The debut of this home entertainment release marks 50 years since the beloved Little House on the Prairie hit television show, starring the late Michael Landon as Pa Ingalls and Melissa Gilbert as Laura, first aired in 1974 on NBC television.

Many thanks to Trellis Virtual Cinema for providing a screening in advance screening to facilitate this review and the Little House Homecoming Giveaway we are hosting. Opinions are 100% my own.

Interviews with Original Cast, Michael Landon's Children

The TV show, like the documentary Little House Homecoming, is inspired by the Little House fiction book series by Laura Ingalls Wilder based on her frontier life and first published in 1932. During the film, original Little House TV cast members take viewers on a virtual roadtrip to visit each of the real life historical Midwest small towns where Laura lived during her lifetime from early childhood in Pepin, Wisconsin until her passing at the age of 90. She was laid to rest in 1957 next to her husband Almanzo Wilder in Mansfield, Missouri.

Co-hosted by original TV series actors Dean Butler (Almanzo Wilder) and Alison Arngrim (Nellie Oleson), the documentary features Karen Grassle (Caroline Ingalls), Charlotte Stewart (Miss Beadle, the teacher) and Wendi Lou Lee (who played Baby Grace along with her twin sister Brenda). Two of Michael Landon's nine real life children also appear, including Michael Landon, Jr. and Jennifer Landon, reminiscing about their father and their lives together both on the set and at home.

A Virtual Journey to Places Where Laura Really Lived

The documentary visits all the important Laura Ingalls Wilder historical homestead sites. The fascinating footage gives the audience the opportunity to see important preserved buildings, artifacts, and vintage photos related to Laura's personal life as well as her work as an author.

Pepin, Wisconsin, setting of Little House in the Big Woods
Independence, Kansas, setting of Little House on the Prairie
Walnut Grove, Minnesota, setting of On the Shores of Plum Creek
Burr Oak, Iowa, Laura lived here between books
De Smet, South Dakota, setting for By the Shores of Silver Lake, The Long Winter, Little Town on the Prairie, These Happy Golden Years, and The First Four Years.
Mansfield, Missouri, where Laura lived and wrote all her books until her death
Malone, New York, Almanzo's childhood farm homestead

With a wonderful script, heartfelt interviews and behind the scenes cinematograpy, the documentary beautifully ties together Laura's pioneer history with the Little House TV series which generations of viewers have loved.

Kids, Parents, Grandparents and Will Love It

Whether you're 8 or 90+ years old, Little House Homecoming has something for every member of the family. The characters like Laura and her family remind us why they have endured for generations. Their resourcefulness, strong work ethic, faith, creativity, and love for one another during pioneer days remain with us, despite our lives today living in a fast-paced world. Without a doubt fans of all ages, young and old, will enjoy watching this together.

Virtual Movie Giveaway

Win a Chance to See Little House Homecoming

Hurry, Enter NOW, Giveaway Ends 12/1

To Enter for chance to win a virtual code to see Little House Homecoming, follow @mommyblogexpert on Instagram and leave a comment on this Instagram post. Winner will be notified by Instagram direct message

More about the Movie

Little House Homecoming is available for viewing now exclusively on the Trellis Virtual Cinema. See the movie trailer, Buy Tickets and learn more about the new documentary on the official movie site.

The Rise of Multigenerational Travel

2025-11-10T12:00:00.000-08:00

Family Travel

Guest Post

by Michelle Catin, Vice President Marketing

Club Med

Travel Across Generations is Trending

Traveling with a small family unit including kids might seem simple, but it often isn't. Mom and dad typically handle all the vacation planning and payments, with mom usually shouldering the burden of vacation reservations, trip organization, packing, and caring for the children. On these so-called vacations, parents more often than not end up spending little time unwinding when they need it most. That’s why more families, especially millennials and Gen Z parents with young kids are considering multigenerational travel. By incorporating grandparents to help with childcare as well as aunts, uncles, and cousins into the mix, everyone has something to do that they enjoy and can also have a little time to themselves.

Reasons to Consider Big Family Trips

Vacations with extended family do require work, but they also yield huge benefits

Tag-team childcare, taking turns taking care of each other's kids
Increased quality time and bonding with family who may not live nearby
Time as a cohesive family unit, helping pass traditions on to younger generations
Lasting family memories that everyone will cherish for a lifetime

As long as you keep your expectations realistic, you can get these rewards and more.

Great Options for Multigen Travel

Since travel is a time-honored tradition for millions of families, it’s easy to find vacation variations that work even for both small and large family trips.

Your best bet is to choose family trips that have something for everyone like

All-Inclusive Resorts
Cruises
Theme Parks
National Parks
Cities with family-friendly activities

Be expansive in your lodging options, and you’ll find something that works for the group.

How to Incorporate Everyone Into Your Travel Plans

Designate a coordinator

The first thing you should do as part of your travel plan is to designate a family member coordinator. This person should be primarily responsible for getting the discussion going and keeping it progressing toward actual decisions and commitments. Ideally, the coordinator has some experience in navigating reservation systems and general travel planning. Skills in working well with others and finding the best options to present to the group are also highly desirable. Note that this person should not be doing 100% of the work. It’s just wise to have a single point who can organize suggestions and do some of the legwork of executing the plan.

Plan early

Family travel planning is essential. Multigenerational travel is not usually a thing you can plan on the fly, so it really helps to get a head start. The designated coordinator should aim to allow three months or more to coordinate and gather everyone's preferences and dates for reservations. Everyone should commit to an affordable budget and be considerate of family size when you breaking down what each group will pay. If you need to stick to a specific budget and not go over, consider options like all-inclusive vacation packages that have all the costs included from the outset.

Encourage collaboration

The goal is to have a trip that everyone enjoys, which means that all parties need to have a say in the location and activities. Kids' opinions should be considered, too! Create a group chat to discuss options and get consensus before the trip coordinator starts planning the itinerary. If you notice that someone slows their participation in the chat, considering them aside to find out if there’s a reason they aren’t investing. They might feel bowled over with the discussion and need some help contributing.

Create some flexibility

While family trips ought to have plenty of activities to keep everyone occupied, they also need to provide some flexibility. Babies and young children may need breaks throughout the day to nap or decompress. Older adults may want to dip in and out based on their energy levels. Big families often have varying opinions about what counts as fun, so they’ll want to choose how to participate. When planning activity options, be sure to include some time for everyone to relax or do things as an individual family unit.

Work and play

There’s no doubt that family trips take a lot of work in preparation and during the event. To avoid the most Type A person getting left with all the responsibility and none of the fun, break down the work into tasks.

A few ideas to create balance

Ask each family (or generation) to take over planning everything for one day
Have all the adults take a shift to attend to the kids
Use a sign-up sheet template to coordinate meals, reservations, and other activities

Remember you don't need to have people sign up for every minute of the trip, but you should aim to cover all the basics before you go.

The sky's the limit for the family vacation you dream up ...

Multigenerational family travel is increasingly popular because it offers so much more than a nuclear family trip. The trick is to make vacation plans that work for everyone, by getting input and making choices that value each person’s physical and emotional needs, likes and dislikes. With these tips, you'll have some great ideas to help make your next family trip a memorable experience for everyone.

About the Author

Michelle Catin is Vice President Marketing at Club Med, a provider of premium all-inclusive vacation packages. She has over 20 years of experience in marketing PR, and specializes in the hospitality industry.

Grow Movie Family Friendly Review

2025-10-17T15:28:00.000-07:00

Movies

Movie Review: GROW the Film

There’s a new family-friendly movie opening today in theaters nationwide that’s just in time for pumpkin spice season and Halloween. Announcing the big-screen release of GROW, a film that kids and parents will enjoy seeing together which is full of the coziness of a hot pumpkin spice latte as well as a funny and entertaining alternative for those families who prefer not to watch scary movies.

Many thanks to US Pumpkin Distribution, LLC for providing advance access to this movie for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

The Latest in Kids Fall Entertainment

If you’re looking for a wholesome, feel-good movie to celebrate fall, GROW will warm your heart and leave you smiling. The story centers around Charlie, an imaginative and curious young girl who discovers the magic of nature in her own backyard when one of the pumpkins she's growing for the town pumpkin contest, an adorably named pumpkin named Peter, starts to talk. What begins as a small gardening project blossoms into a delightful adventure about friendship, patience, and learning to care for something that depends on you.

Charlie’s bond with Peter the pumpkin is what makes this film truly special. Their conversations are both funny and full of gentle life lessons that resonate with kids and adults alike. Peter isn’t just a talking pumpkin— she’s a reminder that growth, whether it’s a plant or a person, takes time, care, and love. Parents will appreciate the film’s deeper message about nurturing responsibility and the importance of protecting the environment.

Check out the

GROW Movie Trailer

The colorful fall scenery, from golden leaves to pumpkin patches, creates the perfect cozy autumn vibe, while the film’s gentle humor keeps even the youngest viewers entertained. The animation (or, if live action, the practical effects) brings Peter to life in a way that feels real and magical at the same time—think a friendlier cousin to Olaf from the movie Frozen, but made of pumpkin and kindness.

Beyond its entertainment value, GROW quietly teaches kids about sustainability, gardening, and appreciating the natural world. Charlie’s enthusiasm for planting seeds and caring for his little garden patch is contagious -- you might just find your own children asking to grow something after watching this movie!

GROW Kids Activity Book

8 Pages of FUN FREE Printable

Ideas to discuss at home after seeing GROW together

The Power of Patience: How did Charlie learn that growing things takes time and effort? What other parts of life need patience too?
Friendship and Caring: What does Peter teach Charlie about being a good friend and taking care of others?
Love for the Earth: How can your family help the environment like Charlie did in the movie?

Some fun kids activities inspired by the movie

Plant a Pumpkin Patch: Get hands-on by planting pumpkin seeds. Kids will love checking each day to see how their plants “grow,” just like Charlie.
Make Recycled Planters: Reuse old milk cartons, jars, or yogurt cups as planters. Let kids decorate them with paint or markers to personalize their “Peter the Pumpkin” pots.
Start a Compost Pile or Recycling Bin: Start a family compost bin or set up recycling containers to learn how to reduce waste and help the planet.
Outdoor Gratitude Walk: Take a family stroll through a local park or your neighborhood to appreciate nature and discuss what you’re thankful for this season.

With its uplifting message, relatable lovable characters, and gorgeous autumn visuals, GROW is sure to become a new seasonal favorite. If you'd like to plan a fall family movie night out, this heartwarming film reminds us that the smallest seeds—of kindness, care, and curiosity—can grow into something truly beautiful.

More About the Movie

To learn more about GROW the film, visit the official movie website as well as follow the film on social media @GrowTheFilm on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube. Find a theater near you and Buy Tickets Now.

Fall Fashion Accessory Trends for Moms

2025-09-12T06:00:00.000-07:00

Style

by Janis Brett Elspas, Editor

Mommy Blog Expert

MBE partnered with Responsival for this story, post contains affiliate links

Fall 2025 Styling Inspo for Busy Moms

Now that the kids are back to school, and you're finally done with the endless shopping lists for your children this fall, it's time to shift your focus back to you.

Whether you are an on-the-go stay-at-home mom juggling playdates or a working mom balancing career and family, fall is the perfect season to freshen up your everyday looks. With cooler days ahead, you don't need a total wardrobe overhaul -- just a little mix-and-match magic using what you already own with a few well-chosen new versatile pieces.

7 Mom-friendly Fall Trends You'll Love

Here are this fall's top fashion trends to easily mix in with your current wardrobe and that you’ll actually love wearing, without sacrificing comfort or your sanity.

Classic Earrings

Jewelry is one the easiest and fastest ways to elevate your look, whether you’re just wearing jeans and a T-shirt or something more appropriate for the office. This season, classic gold stud earrings are leading the pack in style. This accessory is timeless and polished, perfect for PTA meetings or a Zoom call at work.

Layered Chains

Another jewelry trend that’s mom-friendly is layered necklaces. Wondering how to layer necklaces like some of the most fashionable new generation celebrities? Start with one or two chains ideally with different types of links that you may already own, then add one or more new ones with a subtle charm detail to create a pulled-together look without trying too hard.

Relaxed Wide-Leg Pants

Skinny jeans, especially for moms, may be taking a back seat this fall. Wide-leg jeans flatter most figure types, making them perfect for dressing up or down. In fact, this season's trendiest women's pants are not just available as jeans, you can buy them in-store and online at both major department stores and boutiques, in gorgeous, flowing, soft fabrics comfortable enough for school pickup yet sharp enough for a day at the office. Pair them with sneakers, ankle boots or comfy flats for easy versatility.

Cozy Knit Tops in Earth Tones

Pastels as well as warm browns, muted greens, and soft rusts are everywhere this fall. Instead of buying all new sweaters, pull out those old favorites and add one or two updated knit pullover sweaters in your favorite trending color. There are so many ways to wear sweaters, tucked in or out. They're cozy, forgiving, and perfect for layering with tee tops, collared shirts and blouses, too.

Structured Tote Bags

Moms need bags that can do it all, that keep you organized, not to mention provide space to spare for carrying kids' stuff. Stylish, structured practical totes are trending this season and are roomy enough to stash snacks, files, a tablet and smartphone, perhaps even your new iPhone 17. If you already have a neutral leather tote, this is a great opportunity to bring it out of your closet and back into rotation or invest in a good quality leather, beautiful, roomy new shopper bag that will last for years.

Flats with a Twist

Flats are another practical must-have example of trendy accessories for busy moms. This fall, women's footwear is making a major comeback with ballet flats -- featuring details like square toes and Mary Jane ankle straps -- in nearly every texture, metallic finishes, and embroidered details. Ankle boots with low heels are again popular with moms this season. Another favorite timeless mom footwear many of us moms opt to wear are sneakers which are now available in a wide range of styles beyond just walking or running shoes. I just love these Square Lace-up Satin Sneakers which are so pretty, yet practical. Any of these shoe options are all comfy enough for running errands yet polished enough for office wear, whether you're wearing pants, a dress, or suit set.

Scarves Add a Touch of Style

Scarves are an old favorite, with bold, conversation starter patterns trending right now. Think art-inspired scarves as well as classic oversized plaids or contemporary abstract prints in silk and a variety of other fabrics and textures. Tie one around your neck, head, or waist, or simply toss a scarf over your daytime or office basics and suddenly you’ve got a fresh, fashion-forward outfit with almost zero effort. There are so many creative ways to use scarves to elevate your look: tie a scarf nine ways around your neck or get creative and turn a colorful scarf into a hair accessory, swap out a belt and wrap a scarf around your waist or even tie a scarf on your bag as a charm.

You Deserve to Look and Feel Good This Fall

Being a mom means your schedule is packed, but that doesn’t mean your wardrobe has to feel stuck in a rut. With just a few new trendy pieces and some rediscovered gems from your own closet, you can step into fall looking stylish yet practical. Remember: fashion should be fun, not stressful. And it doesn't need to be expensive. So embrace what works for you and your budget, to mix in a little of what’s trending, and enjoy the confidence you'll feel looking so put together without trying too hard.

The Short Game Family Movie Review

2025-08-28T15:00:00.000-07:00

Movies

Movie Review: The Short Game

A Heartwarming Faith-Based Story About Family, Sacrifice, and What Really Matters

Looking for a wholesome movie the whole family to see together? Every once in a while, a movie comes along that does more than just entertain -- it touches your heart, a reminder to parents and kids about life’s most important lessons. The Short Game (2024) is that film.

MBE partnered with Momentum Influencers for this review

Opening in Theaters August 29, 2025

Rooted in faith and family values, the storyline for The Short Game movie follows Jeremy, a high school golfer who is a contender for the Texas State Golf Championship. As the film opens he seems destined for greatness on the golf course, but as the story unfolds, we discover this motion picture isn’t really about golf at all. It's about something much larger: the importance of patience, sacrifice, and kindness and how sometimes the biggest victories aren’t measured by sports trophies.

Check out The Short Game's

Movie Trailer

From the very beginning, viewers are drawn into Jeremy’s world. He is laser-focused on winning the state tournament, practicing endlessly and pushing himself to be the best. His constant companion is Ethan, his younger brother who is autistic. Their relationship starts out rather distant with Jeremy so consumed by the game that he struggles to pay attention to his brother and to connect with Ethan’s needs and unique way of experiencing the world.

But slowly, through small and tender moments, we see a transformation. Jeremy begins to notice his brother’s quiet wisdom, his resilience, and the joy he brings in unexpected ways. Ethan, in turn, shows Jeremy the true meaning of patience and compassion. The dynamic between these two brothers becomes the emotional heartbeat of the movie.

By the time the film builds to its climactic final tournament, Jeremy is faced with a life-changing decision. Will he chase the championship title he has dreamed about for years, or will he make the ultimate sacrifice for Ethan—choosing family over fame? The way he responds is both inspiring and humbling. His choice demonstrates a character of true integrity, showing audiences, especially young people, that doing the right thing is always more important than personal glory.

With beautiful cinematography, authentic performances, and a script that feels both heartfelt and grounded, The Short Game resonates deeply with families. Parents, teens, and even younger children will walk away reflecting on what it really means to love unconditionally. For families raising kids with special needs, the film is especially powerful, offering a moving portrait of inclusion, of sibling relationships and the unique bonds that grow when kindness leads the way.

Ultimately, The Short Game isn’t much about golf—it’s mostly about life. It’s about faith, family, and the sacrifices we’re willing to make for the people we love. And it’s about recognizing that true victory is not found in medals or championships, but in putting others first.

If you’re looking for a movie that uplifts, inspires, and sparks meaningful conversations at the dinner table, The Short Game is a must-see. This is a film that parents will want to watch with their kids, and grandparents will be glad to share with the whole family. A beautiful reminder that at the end of the day, love always wins.

More About the Movie

To learn more about The Short Game, visit the official movie website as well as follow the film on social media @theshortgame on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

Affordable Term Life Insurance for Dads, Moms

2025-08-22T13:54:00.000-07:00

Family Money

by Janis Brett Elspas, Editor

Mommy Blog Expert

MBE parternered with Responsival for this post

Term Life Insurance Important, Accessible to Families

As parents, we often spend so much time focused on just getting through each day, worrying about our family -- feeding the kids healthy meals, making sure they get to school and activities on time, taking care of their health and more, as well as balancing the family budget. But there’s another layer to family finance that often gets overlooked: term life insurance.

An Important Discussion for Parents

Talking about life insurance may not be the most fun topic to chat about with your mom or dad friends group online or while waiting in the carpool lane at after school pickup. But when you have children depending on you, this is one of the most important ways you can protect your family. Term life insurance ensures that in the event that the unthinkable happens, your kids will be financially cared for --from keeping the roof over their heads to covering everyday expenses, college, and beyond.

Here’s the part few parents realize: term life insurance cost is often much more affordable than you’d expect. On average for this type of insurance, an independent study shows that monthly premiums cost around $26, which is less per month than a couple of takeout dinners or a streaming subscription.

Surprisingly Affordable for Families

According to a recent analysis, it will cost approximately $300,000 to raise a child today from newborn to adulthood. When you consider how expensive raising kids already is (hello baby equipment, braces, sports fees, summer camps, and college savings accounts!), this small monthly cost to cover term life insurance can actually fit seamlessly into your overall household budget.

Think of it as one more expense line item in your parenting toolkit -- just like groceries, gas, or extracurriculars -- but one that can provide peace of mind for the well-being of your kids. If you’re wondering where to find the extra dollars to cover the nominal cost of your term life insurance policy, you don’t need to stress. Making small but intentional adjustments in family lifestyle spending can easily provide you with the savings needed to pay for this type of life insurance.

5 Simple Ways to Free Up Money for Monthly Premiums

Here are five realistic ideas parents everywhere can use:

Skip just one latte a week on your way to work. That’s about four fewer lattes a month -- easily enough to cover affordable policies.
Pack lunch instead of buying out once a week. Brown-bagging lunch savings can add up to $20–$40 monthly.
Cut back on unused subscriptions. Cancel that forgotten app, magazine, or duplicate streaming service and redirect those funds.
Opt for one at-home family movie night instead of going to the theater. Just one swap could cover nearly a month’s premium.
Plan meals smarter by using leftovers before food spoils. Reducing food waste by $10–$15 a week means you’re already ahead on covering the cost.

Parenting, Peace of Mind, and Family Finance

At its core, term term life insurance cost isn’t just about money—it’s about love, responsibility, and protecting what matters most. Parenting is already one of the biggest and most rewarding jobs in the world. Knowing your children will be taken care of financially, no matter what, is one of the greatest gifts you can give them. So, while getting term life insurance may feel like “one more thing” to think about and one more expense decision to make, the truth is that it’s a surprisingly small financial step that brings enormous peace of mind.

With a little planning and a few lifestyle spending adjustments, you can easily fit term life insurance into your family budget. And in today’s world of ever-rising costs of raising kids, that’s one investment in your family’s future that’s well worth it.

Free Character Drawing Camp for Kids

2025-07-25T16:30:00.000-07:00

Creativity

Character Design Virtual Workshop July 28 - August 18

I love sharing freebies with MBE's national family lifestyle audience. But when it comes to sharing free, worthwhile creative art activities like Creativity Camp that will engage your kids this summer, I can't wait to tell you all about it. So, let's get started!

MBE participates in the Amazon Affiliates program, post contains affiliate links

WHAT

Creativity Camp, hosted in partnership with Wacom and Best Buy, is an annual complimentary online workshop series. The program is designed for both kids, young creators and beginner artists who enjoy sketching and drawing and would like to learn how to create (or up their skill set game) to draw original characters for comics, illustrated stories, video games, anime, and more. Wacom will be giving away the company's drawing tablets during each class (giveaways are open to attendees who are US residents only).

4 Workshop Sessions Include

Introduction to Character Design
Shape Language, Intro to Model Sheets
Expressive Faces, Poses Design
Final Details, Professional Feedback

WHO

Led by seasoned illustrator and educator Lafe Smith, Director of Arts in Graphic and Web Design at Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD), this weekly Zoom series to be help Mondays, July 28–Aug 18 requires nothing more than a pencil and paper to join in the fun and learning. In each session, Smith will provide participants with insider tips, tricks, and step-by-step directions. Throughout the program Wacom tablets -- the same ones used by top artists at animation movie studios like Disney and Marvel (the later, a subsidiary of Disney) -- will be featured in live demos, and all sessions include bonus resources, materials, and replays. Another perk of participating is getting complimentary feedback from a professional illustrator.

WHEN

Creativity Camp 2025 is an online series to be held each Monday, July 28 through Monday, August 18, 2025 from 3 to 4:30 pm PDT.

HOW

To participate in this virtual month-long workshop, register Free to attend Creativity Camp. Sign up now and join this fun, skills-building program to learn how to draw digitally. Don't worry if you miss the start of camp or any of the individual sessions, once you're registered you'll be able to catch up and access the recordings of each class.

Wacom Drawing Tablets for All Skill Levels

Pictured above, just a few of the brand's product line

Wacom Intuos Drawing Tablet for beginners
Wacom One Drawing Tablet for entry-level pros
Wacom Movink OLED Drawing Tablet for professionals

ABOUT

Creativity Camp is a collaboration of Wacom and Best Buy. Headquartered in Japan, Wacom makes graphics tablets, interactive pens and stylus products for a global audience of creative skill levels from hobbyist to professional. The brand's devices are used professionally to draw and sketch in the fields of digital illustration, graphic design, photo editing, film and animation. Best Buy is known primarily as a consumer electronics retailer selling computers, tech accessories, cell phones, TVs, major household appliances and more.

Custodial Roth IRA Benefits for Kids

2025-06-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

Family Money

by Janis Brett Elspas, Editor

Mommy Blog Expert

MBE partnered with Responsival for this post

Saving for Your Child's Future

With savings interest rates so low right now, it's the ideal time to think about other ways to get each of your kids started with building a nest egg that continues to grow throughout childhood and into their 20-something years and beyond. While far less common, a solid option to consider is a Custodial Roth IRA which parents and legal guardians can set up for children. Not only does this present the opportunity to teach kids about money management early it also helps them build long-term wealth at a higher rate, giving kids a headstart on financial independence.

Custodial Roth IRA for Kids Basics

You may be wondering what on earth is a Custodial Roth IRA? And why you should you even care about setting up one for your son or daughter? So, let's get right into it.

In the simplest terms the Custodial Roth IRA is a retirement account for kids. It's managed by you and you can be set up an account for any age child. When the minor reaches the legal age of adulthood (typically 18 or 21 years old) the funds in the account are transfered into their name. This type of child's account is just like a standard Roth IRA for grownups -- after‑tax dollars earned from work by the contributor go in and qualified withdrawals later are tax‑free.

You can contribute the amount your child earns each year, whether from teenager earned income like babysitting, mowing lawns, modeling, or any W‑2 part-time or summer job. Parents, Grandparents and others may also contribute their own earned income until the child's account reaches a maximum of $7,000 of deposits per year as of 2025. The main difference from a Roth IRA is that mom, dad, or a legal guardian has to be the one to open and oversee the custodial account since minors can’t legally sign on their own.

Why Consider Custodial Roth IRAs for Kids

Compound Interest is "Magic"

Starting young, small contributions from kids part-time jobs can indeed grow huge over time. While not really magical, here's an example. With a $7,000 initial balance the first year, a Custodial Roth IRA (currently the average return rate is 6 percent) can potentially compound -- because both the principal and accumulated interest earn interest -- to almost $140,000 in 50 years.

You can get a more personalized estimate of earnings based on what you think your account contributions might be with this free compound interest calculator.

Contribution Accessibility

You can withdraw the money you put into a Custodial Roth IRA at any time without taxes or penalties. This is a really useful strategy when your teen needs funds for a big expense such as college, a car, or perhaps even a backpack trip to Europe. Later an adult child may tap into their account for bigger expenses for things like buying a starter home. Remember, however, that like regular Roth IRAs, the withdrawal of any tax free earnings are subject to the Roth rules of a 5-year holding period, wait until age 59.5 or meeting qualifying exceptions.

Kids Usually Are In the Lowest Tax Bracket

Since the average child doesn't earn a salary or have a full-time, year-round job, they generally pay little or no income tax for the jobs they earn money for. In this position, the after-tax structure of a Custodial Roth IRA is advantageous for them. Not only are they paying less tax now while they are under age, they're getting access to tax-free withdrawal decades later when they're likely to be earning a lot more money because they're in a higher income bracket.

Smart Saving for the Future is Educational

Once a child has grasped simple math concepts in school, it's a good time to introduce them to their Custodial Roth IRA.

Get creative with age-appropriate ways to teach and show them how interest works and how their money can increase. For example, for a 5 or 6 year-old you can use coins and show them how money can increase if they're saving it in this type of Roth IRA for kids.

Over time, with your encouragement, tween and teens can work on more complex mathmatical challenges under your guidance working together with you to manage their investment, teaching them responsibility, budgeting and the benefits of saving early. It's a finance lesson they won't forget and will serve them for a lifetime.

Conclusion

In short, Custodial Roth IRAs are under-utilized in the US as only a low percent of kids currently have one. Yet, this is a powerful tool worth knowing about. It's an investment that combines a smart tax strategy, flexibility, education and money responsibility, with compounding earnings over time.

Sure, your child is young, but starting their financial journey early and watching it grow together is one of the best gifts you can give them!

Hot Weather Family Safety Tips

2025-06-19T08:03:00.000-07:00

Heatwave Survival

Updated 6/19/25

Heat Dome Affecting Kids, Adults

This summer is well underway and temperatures are soaring to new heights and heat is testing the limits of humans to survive. In fact, weather forecasters are predicting the almost non-stop heatwave, also known as a Heat Dome, will force record-breaking high temperatures to spike to well over 100 degrees in many places, both in the U.S. and elsewhere around the world.

With record heat engulfing the U.S., Yale Climate Connections (YCC) reports that May 2025 was the planet's second warmest on record. In fact, YCC says 2025 is expected to be in the top three hottest years globally. All this excessive heat, attributed to climate change by many experts, is impacting more than 5 billion of people worldwide, amounting to 60% of the world's population as of June 2024.

Make sure everyone in the family, young and old

Drinks plenty of water all day and through the evening to stay properly hydrated, keeping in mind that alcohol, sports drinks and sugary juices often contribute to dehydration.
Stays in covered or shaded areas outdoors or if indoors in well-ventilated areas, during the heat of the day.
Limits outdoor sports and excessive physical exertion to the early morning hours or after dusk when the air is starting to cool off.
Uses a good quality sunscreen with a high enough SPF -- whether it's sunny or cloudy -- to protect against harmful UV rays which can burn and dehydrate skin and add to further body dehydration.

6 Heat Wave Survival Tips

Never leave a baby, child, ill or elderly person alone in the car even with the windows rolled down during hot days, whether in summer or any other time of the year. The same applies to never leaving a dog or other pet in the car.
Keep more than enough extra bottles of water in your car when traveling (whether locally or on a road trip) in the event you get stranded or breakdown in the middle of the day.
Encourage each person (all ages: babies to old age) to always wear a hat outdoors during daytime hours to help avoid sunburn on the head, unnecessary dehydration, and also aid in reducing the potential of sunstroke.
Observe family members who have been out in the sun carefully, watching for symptoms of heat exhaustion -- such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, sleepiness, and behavior changes -- any of which may indicate serious heat-related illness.
Seek out qualified professional medical advice immediately if you notice anything unusual or have any doubts or concerns about how the heat might be affecting your loved ones.
Remember your pets are usually affected by extreme heat, too. So keep them hydrated and out of the sun during the heat of the day. What's more, avoid walking your dog on hot pavement, roads, or tarmac which can burn animals' paws and even cause heat exhaustion and worst

Learn More to Keep Kids Safe in Hot Weather

Always be aware of local weather conditions and how it might impact everyone's health. Visit the CDC website for detailed information on how to protect kids from heat this summer.

Important Note: This post is not a substitute for professional medical advice and you should always seek out your trusted healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you have.

Show Me Your Glory Movie Review

2025-05-12T06:00:00.000-07:00

Movies

Many thanks to Abba Heart Ministries for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

A Film About Real People and Miracles Experienced

The new faith-based documentary Show Me Your Glory (2025, rated ) opens in select theaters nationwide for just three days May 13-15. As a parent it is my opinion that though the main movie's message of miracles happening today is uplifting, the subject matter of this film involves some raw scenes, murder, suicide attempts, violence, drugs, and more, it is only suitable for viewing by mature audiences.

BUY TICKETS

Through a Christian lens, true stories of human suffering of kids and adults around the world are told documentary style with interviews from moms, dads and other real men and women talking about their experiences, intermixed with some dramatizations. In each of the eight of the cases profiled in the movie, it is believed that G-d intervened and complete healing or some other positive result took place through a miracle.

The audience is also reminded, through various religious spokespeople, that the occurence of miracles is the exception not the norm. Miracles can and do happen even in modern times today.

Ranging from drug addiction, abortion, prostitution, sudden illness, serious accidental injury, suicide attempts to a terminal illness diagnosis -- this is the story of miracles that resulted in each situation. It's an inspiring and thoughtful movie that the audience will walk away from appreciating and thinking in new ways about the miracles that are constantly happening around us.

More info

Visit showmeyourglory.com and follow Show Me Your Glory on Facebook and Instagram. In select theaters May 13-15. Find out where this is showing in theaters near you and buy tickets now.

Kidspace Children's Museum Wired for Wonder

2025-04-15T15:29:00.000-07:00

Family Fun

by Rachel Marks

Kids Editor

This kids museum is without a doubt one of our family's favorite places to go. Our most recent visit felt extra special because of Kidspace's current limited time immersive exhibit: Wired for Wonder -- A Multisensory Maze, in collaboration with Getty Museum's PST ART: Art and Science Collide. Our kids just love spending time here. Come to think of it, Kidspace special exhibits, like last summer's Kidspace Campout which I reviewed, are always well-curated and lots of fun for everyone. Thanks to Kidspace Children’s Museum in Pasadena for providing us with media access for Wired for Wonder for this review. Read on to learn all about this popular kid friendly Southern California family attraction.

For Babies, Toddlers, Kids 6 Months - 10 Years Old

The Wired for Wonder Maze was hands down the highlight of our trip this time around. It’s not just about finding your way through a maze -- it’s a full sensory experience where kids (and adults) can see, hear, smell, and feel their way through different challenges. My kids love to touch, climb, and explore so this was right up their alley.

As soon as we stepped into the area dedicated to Wired for Wonder, Izzy (6), Ori (4), and Arya (2) were completely captivated. The maze is designed to be more than just a path from point A to point B to point C. It’s filled with interactive elements along the way that encourage curiosity, exploration, problem-solving, and a bit of teamwork.

Favorite Wonder Maze Activities

The Color-Changing Pathways -- Our eldest son Izzy was obsessed with, figuring out how the lights worked while stepping back and forth to test different patterns. Younger brother Ori, on the other hand, was more interested in running through as fast as possible, laughing the whole time.
The Smell-o-Phone Booth -- Watching the boys take turns sniffing different scents and making wild guesses was hilarious. One smelled like oranges, which they got right, but another was apparently "definitely pizza" (spoiler: it was not). Arya kept trying to climb inside the booth, thinking there was something exciting hidden in there.
The Textures Station -- Ori loved the part where they had to feel different materials and guess what they were. He closed his eyes and ran his hands over everything like a little scientist. Arya, meanwhile, just giggled and patted every surface as fast as she could.
The Tasting Station -- At the end the tasting station was a such a cool surprise! The kids got to try different flavors and guess what they were. Ori, who is usually my pickiest eater, was surprisingly into it, while Izzy insisted that everything tasted like “spicy bananas” (no idea where he got that from).

Child-Tested, Mom- and Dad-Approved

What I loved the most as a parent was that the special Wired for Wonder exhibition space had something different that was fun, educational and engaged each of our three children, despite their different ages and personalities. Usually, someone ends up bored or frustrated, but this exhibit really engaged all of them. My husband and I took turns guiding them through different sections, and sometimes we split up so they could explore at their own pace.

More of My Kids Fave Kidspace Adventures

After the maze, the kids still had plenty of energy to burn off, so we hit some of Kidspace's permanent areas.

Bottle Launcher and Pulleys -- If it involves pushing buttons and making things fly, my kids (and I bet your kids) are always in

Rock Climbing and Instruments -- This activity is good mix of mental challenges, physical movement and creativity.

Farm Area Sandbox -- My daughter could have stayed here forever, happily digging and building. I think yours will likely enjoy this just as much. Afterall, what kid doesn't like getting a little dirty, right?

After those fun activities, we took a snack break by the water. This gave everyone a chance to catch their breath before heading back for more fun and exploration in the permanent areas of the museum. Both indoors and outside there is literally so much here to keep kids busy and engaged based on their interests and energy levels.

Final Thoughts: Why We Love Kidspace

Kidspace just gets it when it comes to kids. There’s so much space to explore, plenty of spots to sit and take a break, and the staff is always so friendly and helpful. It never feels overwhelming, even when it gets busy, which makes a huge difference when you have little ones running in different directions.

Before we arrived, Izzy was skeptical -- he thought Kidspace might be “too babyish” for him. But after trying Wired for Wonder he completely changed his mind. In fact, he said it was one of his favorite things we’ve done there which, coming from a six-year-old, is pretty high praise. If you have kids and either live in or visit Southern California and you're looking for something fun and hands-on, Kidspace and the Wired for Wonder maze are definitely worth checking out. Also, don't miss all the butterfly-related activities now that the 29th Annual Butterfly Season has begun at Kidspace.

We’ll definitely be back soon. Next time, we’ll probably stay even longer! Have you been to Kidspace? Please feel free to leave a comment, I’d love to hear what your kids think of this experience.

About Kidspace

Visit kidspacemuseum.org for hours, activity schedule and to reserve general admission tickets for Kidspace Children's Museum, sign up for a Family Membership, and to discover more about Kidspace offerings year-round. Kidspace is geared toward kids ages 6 months through 10 years-old. For the youngest ones, for crawlers and non-crawlers there are age-appropriate toys and areas to explore. For the older kids, there are fun, educational, and hands-on opportunities to discover. The children's 3.5 acre indoor and outdoor space features 40 interactive exhibits with daily events and special monthly programs. Stay in the loop on everything Kidspace is up to by following their social media channels on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram.

Kidspace is located at 480 North Arroyo Boulevard, Pasadena, California 91103; phone 626-449-9144.

Easter Gift Guide for Kids, Adults

2025-04-10T08:00:00.000-07:00

Easter 2025

Unique Ideas for Every Generation

For this Easter season, we've gathered the best ideas for Easter gifts that are truly memorable both for the givers and the recipients. There's something truly unique here for every age group from young children and older kids to tweens and teens, 20-somethings, parents, grandparents and beyond.

Post Contains Affiliate Links, Some Products Featured Received for Review

Easter Baskets Filled With Imported Treats

Easter Baskets aren't just for children, right? Here's something really unique and special for that kid-like grownup in your life or that teen who is hard to please.

Supermarket Italy offers an imaginative array of curated gift baskets with items from around the world. The Easter basket pictured at the top of this story is just one example featuring an assortment sourced from 44 countries -- including classic Italian chocolate treats like hazelnut pralines from Italy. Basket elements also are gathered from elsewhere in Europe as well from North America, Africa, the Middle East, the Caribbean, South America, and Australia. Each basket is beautifully packed with a global mix of sweet seasonal imported treats and wrapped by hand.

These are definitely not your usual ready-made Easter baskets. In addition to these Easter Baskets, an extensive selection of gift baskets and individual imported items are also offered throughout the year.

Available exclusively from Supermarket Italy

Baby Bunny Cakelet Pan

The lightweight aluminum bunny baking pan from Nordic Ware is the perfect gift to give someone who loves to bake. The resulting six baby rabbit mini cakes are absolutely darling, perfect for spring entertaining.

Available on Amazon

Easter Bunny Toy Building Set

This buildable Easter Bunny with 72 pieces (small pieces, so not suitable for little ones) will entertain anyone over the age of 8 years old for hours. Strickly Briks guarantees a tight fit of all pieces as this unique Easter Bunny project is put together. Made with quality materials, these bricks are sturdy, durable and 100% compatible with all major brands. Give this kit alone or tuck it into an Easter Basket. Great price, so these will sell out fast.

Available on Amazon

3-in-1 Animal Construction Set

From LEGO comes this fun 326-piece brick set to build an Easter Bunny that, when completed, stands 7-1/2 inches tall with joints that move so you can pose him in a variety of positions. Follow the directions and you can also make two more animals by reusing the bricks in this set to construct a really cute llama and a seal. Adorable accessories are included with each of the three animals. A gift in itself that's perfect for Easter for kids and kid-like adults who love building with LEGOs.

Available on Amazon

Kids Bunny Veterinarian Doctor Toy Kit

What a fun and educational pink colored doctor vet kit for toddler and little girls. Everything pictured in this 22 piece set, including the pink plush bunny and kid-sized veterinarian's coat, plus all the tools, is included. A great way to inspire young girls to acquire STEM skills.

Available on Amazon

AI-Enhanced Digital Photo Frame

Last but not least, why not consider a digital photo frame as a family gift? Don't be sad when you have to return home after spending Easter vacation with your family or friends. This is a gift that keeps on giving to both the recipient and giver, making it possible to privately share photo and video memories across the miles with loved ones, rather than over social media. Already in use by 4 million customers, Nixplay Digital Frames like this 10 inch model which is available with your choice of frame: wood, black or white to suit all kinds of home lifestyles. It's easy to set up and use and is enhanced by AI for perfectly-centered images.

Available on Amazon

Disclosure: MBE participates in the Amazon Affiliate and other affiliate programs. We receive a bit of compensation, at no extra cost to you, when readers click on the links in this post and make a purchase. However, opinions here are honest and our own.

Easter Bunny Bars Kids Dessert Recipe

2025-04-08T08:00:00.000-07:00

Good Food

Easter Bunny Bars

This post contains affiliate links

This festive colorful popcorn bars recipe from the Popcorn Board is a fun and easy Easter treat kids will love to eat as much as they'll enjoy helping you make. The recipe is simple, however, since you'll be using a hot stove and oven to make these delicious holiday dessert gems, keep younger children safe by having them help you with age-appropriate steps in this recipe.

Easy Easter Dessert Recipe

Yield: Serves 16

Ingredients

2 tbsp butter

3 and 1/2 cups miniature marshmallows, divided

1 tsp vanilla extract

8 cups popped popcorn

1 and 1/2 cups candy-coated miniature eggs

2 tbsp pastel sprinkles or bunny sprinkles or

Simple Directions

Melt butter in large saucepan set over medium-low heat; stir in 3 cups marshmallows, and vanilla until melted. Remove from heat. Immediately stir in popcorn until well coated. Press into parchment paper–lined and greased 13- x 9-inch baking pan; smooth top with greased spatula. Immediately sprinkle with remaining marshmallows, miniature eggs and sprinkles; press toppings lightly to adhere to popcorn layer. Let stand for about 30 minutes or until set. Cut into bars. Store in airtight container.

Other Ideas

Use colored mini marshmallows, if preferred

Try Reese's Popcorn which comes already popped, drizzled in peanut butter and chocolate

Drizzle melted dark, milk or white chocolate over the top of your bars

To All Those Celebrating

Happy Easter!

Disclosure: Mommy Blog Expert participates in the Amazon Affiliates program and we receive a small bit of compensation, at no extra costs to you, when you click on the links in this post and make a purchase

Everyday Accessories for Moms on the Go

2025-03-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

Style

Busy Mama's Guide to Looking Put Together

by Janis Brett Elspas, Editor

Mommy Blog Expert

MBE partnered with Responsival, post contains affiliate links

Whether you're a devoted soccer mom or a grandma driving the kids around town, feeling put together, rather than frazzled, makes all the difference. Even on hectic days, basic styling choices such as simple pearl necklaces -- my favorite everyday accessory -- can lift your spirit and confidence. Instantly elevate your daytime look, adding a touch of effortless elegance with the right accessories and you'll step out the door looking and feeling fabulous.

7 Every Day Mom Accessorizing Tips

Statement Jewelry: A casual pearl necklace, stylish hoop earrings along with the latest Apple Watch instantly upgrade your outfit, adding a polished timelessness to moms of every age.

Daytime Makeup: A quick 5-minute day face routine every morning can refine and energize your appearance. Start with a daily micro exfoliator, followed by brightening face moisturizer for a natural glow, some blush, and a swipe of mascara to brighten your look effortlessly.

A Simple Hairstyle: Manage fussy hair with a headband, sleek ponytail, top bun, or alligator clip updo. For really bad hair days, a creatively tied head scarf is an easy fix.

A Compact Crossbody Bag: Preferred by today's young moms, lightweight shoulder strap phone wallet bags offer handsfree convenience with purse size capacity thanks to multiple compartments for phone, credit cards and keys. No mom caring for kids or grandkids should be without one.

Comfortable Footwear: Stylish, supportive shoes, like cushioned slip-on sneakers or ballet flats are a must, so you're ready for walking on all sorts of surfaces indoors and outside.

On Trend Eyewear: No matter the season versatile sunglasses, available in an array of stylish frames to complement every skin color and face shape, keep eyes protecting while also adding a cool factor for all moms generations.

A Stylish Wrap/Cardigan: Always a good idea to bring along a lightweight wrap, jacket or sweater in a neutral tone for easy layering, providing function and sophistication for a timeless look.

Be Creative With How You Accessorize

Pearls when worn with jeans and tennis shoes is just one idea for a great mom'a look that's easy to pull off. The sky's the limit in how you incorporate your personal style into accessorizing your on the go life. With these must-have accessories you can take on each day with joy, energy, casual style and confidence. Thus proving that busy moms and grandmothers -- even with multiple children in tow -- can look relaxed, together and just plain fabulous every day.

No Address Film Spotlights Homeless Crisis

2025-02-28T08:00:00.000-08:00

Movies

by Janis Brett Elspas, Editor

Mommy Blog Expert

MBE received press access to facilitate this story

Opening in Theaters Nationwide

Get ready to help make the world a better place after seeing this powerful new drama. No Address from Robert Craig Films (2025, PG-13), opens in theaters today, shining a much-needed light on the growing crisis of homelessness in America. Based on true events, this film tells the deeply human stories of adults and kids experiencing homelessness through its fictitious characters to illustrate the diverse and complicated reasons people find themselves without a place to call home. With the homeless population now reaching 2.7 million -- more than half of whom are children -- No Address serves as a compelling and urgent call for awareness, action, and change.

Homelessness Happens to All Kinds of People

Directed by Julia Verdin and filmed in Sacramento, California, the film introduces a range of interesting personality types, each facing unique hardships. Isabella Ferreira (Gray Matter), as Lauren is a young woman who ages out of the foster care system and is left to fend for herself. Lucas Jade Zumann (Dr. Bird's Advice for Sad Poets) as Jimmy takes Lauren under his wing, introducing her to a makeshift homeless community and his fellow encampment residents Xander Berkeley (The Mentalist, Shanghai Noon) as Harris; Beverly D’Angelo (National Lampoon's Vacation film series) as Dora; and Grammy-Award winning singer Ashanti who plays Violet, a war vet suffering from PTSD. Together, these characters form a family-like support system, showcasing the resilience and strength often found in those struggling to survive on the streets.

-> Watch the Official Trailer

One of the film’s most heartbreaking storylines follows a family of three -- a father, mother, and their young son -- who are evicted from their home. The father, portrayed by William Baldwin (Backdraft, The Squid and the Whale), loses his job and, due to gambling and alcohol addictions, can't pay the bills. Meanwhile his wife Gabrielle, played by Patricia Velásquez, is employed as an ER doctor working double shifts but still cannot prevent the loss of their home. Their devastating descent into homelessness highlights how, for many families with kids, it is not a matter of choice but unfortunate circumstances beyond their control.

The film also features Ty Pennington (ABC’s Extreme Makeover: Home Edition) as Mr. Mills, a compassionate advocate working to provide aid and solutions for the homeless. Pennington and Kristanna Loken (Terminator 3) as Kim further enrich the narrative with their stellar performances, portraying caring involved individuals striving to make a difference in a system that often turns a blind eye.

Director and Cast at No Address Los Angeles Premiere

Despite Hardship, Hope Still Exists for the Homeless

While No Address presents the harsh realities of life on the streets -- job loss, addiction, eviction, violence, and the struggles of adults and kids just trying to survive -- it also offers hope. It emphasizes that homelessness is not a permanent state and that with empathy, love, and kindness, those affected can find their way back home. The film challenges viewers to reconsider their perceptions of homelessness, recognizing that these individuals are not defined by their circumstances but by their strength and humanity.

In the film’s conclusion, a list of No Address partner resources is displayed, providing tangible ways for the public to contribute to ending homelessness. Whether through donating to shelters, supporting rehabilitation programs, volunteering time, or advocating for policy change, there is a role each of us can play to eradicate homelessness.

Ultimately, No Address is more than just a movie -- it’s a movement. It urges us to open our hearts and minds, to extend a helping hand rather than a judgmental gaze, and to work toward a world where no one is forced to sleep on the streets. Compassion does change lives, and with a collective effort, we can ensure that every person, young and old, has a place to call home.

More About this Film

Buy tickets now to see No Address in theaters nationwide starting February 28. Robert Craig Films has pledged 50% of the net profits from this film to organizations supporting the homeless community. Director Julia Verdin is also the founder and is on the board of the non-profit Artists for Change which aims to raise awareness on key social issues through film and media. Learn more by visiting noaddressmovie.com and following on social media @noaddressmovie and @robertcraigfilmsofficial.

DISCLOSURE: Many thanks to Robert Craig Films for providing access to screen No Address to facilitate this review. Opinions here are 100% my own.

The Unbreakable Boy Family Film Review

2025-02-21T07:00:00.000-08:00

Movies

by Janis Brett Elspas, Editor

Mommy Blog Expert

MBE received press access to facilitate this story

On the Big Screen Nationwide

Opening today in theaters nationwide, The Unbreakable Boy (2025, Rated PG) is a heartwarming new family drama based on a true story that explores the extraordinary life of a kid named Austin LeRette. Closely following the boy's actual childhood, the movie invites the audience in for a beautiful retelling of the backstory of Aus-Man (Austin's nickname). It's a story that radiates joy that is contagious despite this youngster not being able to do most of the things other kids his age can do because he faces a multitude of challenges stemming from having both autism and a rare fragile bone disease known as Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI).

A Film With Important Family Messages

Directed by Jon Gunn, The Unbreakable Boy, from Kingdom Story Company (the studio who brought filmgoers the movies Wonder and The Best Christmas Pageant Ever), is based on the memoir of Austin's real life dad, Scott LeRette. The movie, told through the point of view of Austin's childlike voice and mannerisms, offers a poignant look into how Austin's unwavering spirit becomes a source of growth and transformation within his family, particularly how it impacts his father's battle with alcoholism.

The Unbreakable Boy stars Zachary Levi as Scott LeRette, Austin's father; Jacob Laval as Austin LeRette; Meghann Fahy as Teresa LeRette, Austin's mother; Gavin Warren as Logan LeRette, Austin's younger brother; Patricia Heaton as Marcia, Scott's mother; Peter Facinelli as Preacher; and Rick Drew Powell as Joe, Scott's adult imaginary friend.

The film's narrative centers on dad Scott LeRette (Zachary Levi) as he grapples with understanding and accepting his son's unique perspective on life. At the same time he's dealing with his own grownup issues -- alcohol addiction on top of being bread winner who is suddenly laid off from his job -- happening simultaneously as the medical and therapy bills for his son continue to mount.

Jacob Laval, in his role as Austin is so much into his character. In fact, watching his convincing performance, viewers will easily forget Laval is just an actor who fully embodies who Austin really is: a boy who despite his physical and neurological challenges, approaches the world with an unbreakable spirit and unwavering belief in the goodness of all people.

A Young Boy Inspires His Father

Austin's positive outlook profoundly impacts the father of two, who is struggling with his own challenges. Throughout the film, Austin's zest for life, ability to bounce back, and his ability to find joy in the simplest moments serve as a mirror for Scott to honestly view himself, reflecting the possibilities of redemption and change.

During a media interview, LeRette expressed how his son's perspective is real and actually was instrumental in his journey toward sobriety. "He thinks everybody's redeemable," he told People magazine.

The movie also highlights the dynamics of LeRette family members, showcasing the unwavering support of Teresa, Austin's mother (played by Meghann Fahy), and the evolving relationship between Austin and his younger brother, Logan. The family's journey underscores themes of empathy, unconditional love, and the transformative power of embracing differences.

"The Unbreakable Boy" is more than just a film; it's a celebration of the human spirit and a testament to how love and understanding can lead to profound personal transformation. It's a must-watch to see and discuss together for families seeking an inspiring and heartfelt story that resonates on multiple levels.

At the New York Movie Premiere

Above: The LeRette Family, Below: The Unbreakable Boy Cast

Update on the Real-Life LeRettes

As of February 2025, the real-life LeRette family continues to thrive. Austin, now in his mid-20s, maintains his passion for connecting with people, whether it's through his work or casual interactions in the community. His relationship with his father, Scott, remains strong, with the duo often spending quality time together. Mom Teresa continues to be the family's cornerstone, providing unrelenting support and love while brother Logan, having grown up witnessing his brother's resilience, has developed a deep sense of empathy and is pursuing a career in special education inspired by his family's journey.

More about The Unbreakable Boy

Kingdom Story Company's The Unbreakable Boy is in theaters nationwide beginning February 21, so buy tickets now online or at the box office. Watch the movie trailer and learn more by visiting the film's official site TheUnbreakableBoy.com as well as following @lionsgate and @kingdomstoryco on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X, and TikTok.

Many thanks to Kingdom Faith Marketing Services for providing screening access to facilitate this movie review. Opinions are 100% my own.

Valentine's Day Gift Guide

2025-02-01T08:00:00.000-08:00

Romantic Gifts

by Janis Brett Elspas, Editor

Mommy Blog Expert

Beautiful Ideas for $80 or Less

This curated collection of gift ideas for Valentine's Day 2025 is all about affection, love, femininity, and romance. With a pink and white color scheme and bows and hearts style motifs, like-minded romantics will almost certainly find something here to love whether it's a gift for someone special or a well-deserved present for yourself.

For Valentine's Day and Year-Round

Love what you see here? This collection for moms, gal pals, and women is so beautiful your gift recipient (or even you!) will enjoy any of Mommy Blog Expert's romantic gift picks not only on Valentine's Day but year-round. So it's a good thing that most of our selections are available any other time of year, too.

MBE received the items featured and/or is being compensated via affiliate links

You'll find clickable links to buy the items you'd like to buy in the product descriptions immediately below.

1. Bow Organica Gold Plated Statement Earrings in popular minimalistic style, unique design also offered in silverplate. Available from Ettika ~ Take 25% off with code FLASH

2. Stylish Retro Light Pink Cat Eye Sunglasses. Available from ChicWish

3. Elegant Feminine Bow Knot Clutch Straw Handbag in hot pink with zipper enclosure. Available from ChicWish

4. Dainty Embroidered Eyelet Cotton Short Puff Sleeve Dress in white, available in XS, S, M, L and XL sizes. Available from ChicWish

5. Sparkling Rhinestone Initial Keychain with Heart Charm in pink in choice of A-Z letter, includes matching bling wristlet. Available on Amazon

6. Pink Tone on Tone Heart Birthday Cake Soy Candle beautifully decorated like a real cake. Available exclusively on Etsy

7. Light Pink Compact Jewelry Organizer with mirror for home, travel customized with A-Z letter of your choice. Available on Amazon

8. Faux Pearl Encrusted Heart Shape Hand Bag in white with metal handle, also features goldtone chain to use as a cross body or shoulder bag. Available from ChicWish

9. Sweet Contrast Cozy Light Pink, Dark Pink Heart Crewneck Sweater. Available from ChicWish

MBE participates in the Amazon, Etsy and ChicWish advertising affiliate programs and we receive a bit of compensation, at no extra cost to buyers, whenever purchases are made through the links in this story. In addition, we may have received some of the items featured in this gift guide to facilitate coverage.

Los Angeles Wildfires Resources Support

2025-01-10T16:41:00.007-08:00

Community

Help Resources For Evacuated, Opportunities for Donors

I've lived in Los Angeles for 40+ years and have never seen anything like the California wildfires still burning and ravaging homes, as well as businesses and other types of properties like schools. Help and hope can now be found just about anywhere you look across LA and LA County. LA granted, can be a very materialistic place to live with multi-million dollar homes, expensive cars and other luxuries. However, despite the massive size of our city measuring almost 469 square miles (and a county that's 4,083 square miles), it is truly inspiring to see how much Los Angelinos are now banding together as a community to provide support and resources to those affected by the fires, especially families with kids who have lost everything including their homes this past week.

Emergency Shelters for People, Pets and Horses

Many shelters are open for families and singles including

LA Area People Shelters

American Red Cross, for information on how to help and for assistance with shelters call 800-RED CROSS or download the RedCross.org app
El Camino Real Charter High School, 5540 Valley Circle Blvd., Woodland Hills, CA 91367
Westwood Recreation Center, 1350 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90025
Sepulveda Recreation Center, 8825 Kester Ave., Panorama City, CA 91402
Ritchie Valens Recreation Center, 10736 Laurel Canyon Blvd., Pacoima, CA 91331
Pasadena Convention Center, 300 E. Green St., Pasadena, CA 91101
LA Dream Center, 2301 Bellevue Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90026
Pan Pacific Recreation Center, 2301 Bellevue Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90026
Pomona Fairplex, 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Pomona, CA 91768

LA Animal Shelters

Agoura Animal Care Center, 29525 Agoura Rd., Agoura Hills, 91301
Los Angeles Equestrian Center, 480 W. Riverside Dr., Burbank, 91506
Pasadena Humane Society, 361 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena, 91105
Pierce College Equestrian Center, 7100 El Rancho Dr., Woodland Hills, 91367
Rose Bowl Stadium, 1001 Rose Bowl Dr., Pasadena, 91103

Additional Support and Ways to Help

Airbnb is offering Free emergency housing for the fire-impacted communities
UHaul is providing 30 days of FREE storage for those affected by the LA fires
LA Arts Community Fire Relief Fund, a Getty-led coalition of major arts organizations, philanthropists and artists
Emek Hebrew Academy, through their fire relief fund, is setting up meals for families displaced in Pasadena and Pacific Palisades. Call 818-783-3663 for information
Hillel, is running a clothing drive for Pacific Palisades affected families. Clothing must be new. Information: Call or text 310-850-6651
Chabad of Malibu is accepting donations of clothing, toiletries, kids toys, bedding, and food. For info: call 617-312-7068 or email drew@ldrventures.com
Chabad of Pacific Palisades has organized a Palisades Emergency Support fundraising campaign (the goal is $250,000). If you or someone you know needs assistance, call 310-628-4444 or email info@chabadpalisades
Check this Wildfire Crisis Relief list for dozens of other Government and Community Resources
Tail Town Cat Cafe in Pasadena is gathering and giving away pet supplies, food, litter, blankets, pet medical supplies to those with cats affected by the fires
Mutual Aid LA Network offers a constantly updated detailed list of donation drives and free items
The LA Fires Relief and Resources list, compiled by IATSE (Intl Assoc of Theatrical Stage Employees) has a list available to the public with a wealth of resources including links to wildfire updates, information on housing and shelters, financial assistance, trauma and mental health support, recovery and legal resources, and more

How to Help - Volunteer Opportunities

Our Big Kitchen (OBKLA), volunteers needed to prep fresh meals in LA for those in need as well as firefighters and emergency workers, email info@obkla.org for information
For many other ways to pitch in and help to make a difference and help both humans and animals impacted by the wildfires in LA, check the Wildfire Crisis Relief list created by the Jewish Federation of Los Angeles

Please Comment With More Suggestions

A note from Mommy Blog Expert: This list we've created is my no means exhaustive. If you have additional suggestions for either helping those who have been evacuated or ways the public can help, please leave a comment including the details

Holiday Travel With Kids Tips Strategies

2024-12-15T09:30:00.000-08:00

Parenting

Guest Post

by Dr. Suzanne Barchers

Educational Advisor, Lingokids

Traveling With Children During the Holidays

For most people, the idea of traveling with kids sounds great, but the reality can be quite different. Here are some key things moms and dads should consider before booking a trip.

Before You Leave Home

To prepare for a trip with children, have kids practice using a backpack or pulling a small suitcase and involve them in the steps of planning, organizing, and packing
Check if your airline or train offers early boarding to make the process smoother.
Engage with other parents for tips and advice, and if traveling by car, let the kids help choose snacks and activities
Expect hiccups along the way and pack essentials like children’s Tylenol, sanitizing wipes, extra clothes, Band-Aids, and anything else that might address potential issues like ear infections (consult your doctor beforehand if flying)
Teach kids to pack daily outfits in gallon bags, include extras like swimsuits, and use a laundry bag with detergent for sink washes to keep their belongings organized and tidy

On travel day, allow extra time for each step, from reaching the transit center to getting seated. Bring multi-purpose items like hand sanitizer, which can clean, disinfect, or even serve as a fun distraction. Help kids engage with the trip by sharing fun facts and exploring books or videos about the destination and mode of travel.

Hacks for Keeping Kids Occupied In Transit

Make travel with kids smoother by discussing protocols beforehand, including sharing space in a car,train, or airplane. Research engaging activities on sites like Lingokids.com or MomsMinivan.com for fun travel games.
Pack small new items to keep children entertained, such as toys, books, coloring books, or a new app like Lingokids.
Consider creative options like wipe-off boards, discovery bottles, or sensory balls, which can double as post-trip art tools (use them to roll paint across paper).
Include special treats for the journey, but be mindful of sugar content.
Finally, pack washi tape to let kids decorate their seat area, which can easily peel off when the trip ends.

Things to Avoid while Traveling

To ensure smooth and enjoyable travel with children, try to maintain their usual sleep and meal schedules as much as possible. When traveling internationally, exercise patience with jet lag and be understanding if your child experiences a meltdown. Limit sugary treats and fast food, try choosing sit-down meals for restful breaks. Avoid non-stop action by pacing your activities; assume you won’t see everything and plan for rest breaks to keep the experience enjoyable. Avoid conflicts over daily plans by creating a schedule in advance that allows input from all family members. Balance structured activities with downtime, like poolside relaxation, and incorporate quiet days into the itinerary. Finally, minimize cell phone use to stay present. For teens, encourage using phones primarily for taking pictures.

Recommended Activities while Traveling

Traveling with kids can be a rewarding experience, and cruises are an excellent option for exploring multiple destinations without the hassle of constant packing and unpacking. When planning excursions, choose them together, avoiding overly long tours. Spending extended time in one city or region allows for a mix of structured tours and spontaneous walkabouts. Cooking classes and walking food tours provide fun, interactive ways to explore local flavors for all ages. Don’t shy away from including adult-oriented activities like wine or cheese tastings that can be adapted for kids with thoughtful planning, ensuring enriching experiences for the whole family.

Activities to Avoid While Traveling

When planning activities with kids during a trip, it’s important to balance excitement with practicality. Long bus tours can quickly become tedious for young ones, and museum visits should be kept short to avoid exhausting them or making them feel dragged around. Beach outings should be carefully managed to prevent sunburn, hunger-induced meltdowns, or overexertion. Overall, don’t feel pressured to pack in every possible activity—leaving room for downtime can make the experience more enjoyable for everyone.

What Parents Should Do When Feeling Overwhelmed or Stressed

When traveling with kids, it's essential to stay open and honest. Let them know when things are challenging and that you're doing your best. Be sure to build in breaks -- a quick coffee or juice stop can prevent meltdowns. Pack plenty of patience, and remember that while the mishaps like sudden rainstorms or spilled drinks might seem overwhelming now, they’ll fade, leaving behind cherished memories. Capture those moments with lots of photos and video and be sure to encourage kids to take some too, adding their perspective to the shared experience.

Traveling with kids can be challenging, but with thoughtful preparation and a flexible mindset, it can also be a deeply rewarding experience.

About the Author

Dr. Suzanne Barchers is Education Advisory Board Chair at Lingokids. Barchers is former VP of Leapfrog Enterprises; Award-winning author of 300+ books for educators and children; and has served on the Advisory Boards of PBS and the Association of Educational Publishers.

Hanukkah Best Gifts for Kids Adults Pets

2024-12-10T12:03:00.000-08:00

Chanukah

Hanukkah begins at sundown December 25, 2024 - January 2, 2025

Unique Gifts Ideas for Kids, Grownups, Pets

I could not be more thrilled to share this Hanukkah gift guide with you featuring the hottest, best-selling collection of gift ideas you won't find gathered together quite like this in any other shopping guide. I'm so enthusiastic to share these ideas, not only because my own family celebrates the Jewish Festival of Lights, but because I personally love all the items I've curated for this collection of beautiful and unique affordable gift ideas. Whether you're shopping for Chanukah for kids, women, men, and or pets, there's something here to discover that would make the perfect gift for just about everyone on your list.

MBE partnered with Fairytale Brownies, this post also contains affiliate links

8 Nights of Gifts

It's traditional for many families to exchange small gifts on each of the eight nights of the holiday of Hanukkah. Among the tunes young and old also enjoy singing is this folksong which is also sung in Yiddish by some ...

I Have a Little Dreidel (AKA The Dreidel Song)

I have a little dreidel, I made it out of clay.

And when it's dry and ready, then dreidel I shall play.

Oh dreidel, dreidel, dreidel, I made it out of clay.

Oh dreidel, dreidel, dreidel, then dreidel I shall play.

Now that you're in a festive mood, start scrolling, browsing to check out all the wonderful merchandise available this season. The majority of these items are inexpensive, making them ideal for giving as thoughtful gifts during each night of the 8-day holiday, all priced at much less than $100, except for one. You'll find clickable links to buy the items you really like in the product descriptions immediately below each gift guide page section.

Fun and Playful Kids Gift Ideas

Hanukkah is really all about the kids, right? Whether you're looking for screen free Hanukkah toys and books, festive decor, or something more practical like footie pajamas, these gift suggestions will make you, your kids and family smile.

Dreidel Menorah String Lights

A 6-foot string with 5 dreidel and 5 menorah lights to decorate your home or classroom

My Mini Wood Menorah

A colorful wood menorah children will enjoy pretending to "light"

My First Xylophone Menorah

Kids will enjoy playing The Dreidel Song on this musical menorah

The Very Hungry Caterpillar's 8 Nights of Chanukah Board Book

This charming, sturdy book is a favorite for toddlers ages 1 to 3

Hanukkah Cotton Footed 2-Way Zip Pajamas

An adorable one-piece in sizes preemie, newborn and 3, 6, 9 months

Hanukkah Bingo Game

Includes 18 game cards and everything needed to play

Build-A-Bear Hanukkah Gift Box

A gift box that magically reveals a fun, new surprise gift for 8 nights

Personalized Fabric Applique Menorah Wall Hanging

Add the name of a special child for a truly unique heirloom quality gift

Gifts for Girlfriends, Wives and Moms

All of the ideas for gals are just my style. So let's just say I'm dropping a hint to anyone who might be planning to surprise me with a gift that I will definitely love this Hanukkah.

Hanukkah Shopping Bag Ornament

This 4-inch glass Kurt Adler design is perfect for shopaholics

Delicate Menorah Stud Earrings

These colorful menorah Bauble Bar earrings are so festive and fun

Jeweled Blue Velvet Hanukkah Hairband

I couldn't wait for Hanukkah, so I already bought this one for me

Olivia Riegel Sophie Bronze Finish Pewter Menorah

An elegant menorah, with handpainted enamel encrusted with crystals

Blue Tile Accordian Pleated Maxi Dress

A luxurious blue tile flowy print dress in the prettiest hues of blue and white

Foodie, Entertaining, and Hostess Gifts

Fairytale Brownies Hanukkah Sampler Box - Kosher

These come boxed and individually wrapped (Hanukkah Sampler Box is pictured above) with a mouth-watering assortment of brownies in various sizes (3" x 3", 3" x 1.5", 1.5" x 1.5"). Delicious flavors in the sampler gift box include Pecan, Toffee Crunch, White Chocolate, Mint Chocolate Espresso Nib, Cnnamon Cocoa, Caramel, Chocolate Chip, Raspberry Swirl, Walnut and Cream Cheese plus 4 Blondie Magic Morsels (4 flavors) and 4 different cookies (Snickerdoodle, Caramel Pecan, Chocolate Chip, and Double Chocolate) ready to give in a festive "Happy Hanukkah" box.

Fairytale Brownies Chanukah gift boxes are also offered in Gluten-Free Brownie Morsels (choice of 12 or 24 pieces) and Sugar-Free Brownie Morsels (24 pieces). In all, as of press time, there are 31 different Hanukkah gift box options in the brand's collection. All Fairytale Brownies products are certified kosher under the supervision of the Greater Phoenix Vaad Hakashruth in Arizona.

A few more gift ideas from other brands in this category...

Hanukkah Menorah Kitchen Tea Towel

This 16" x 24" white waffle weave tea towel makes a wonderful holiday gift for your host or hostess

Multi-Color Chocolate Hanukkah Coins - Kosher

Kids love chocolate gelt even more in so many colors like this, OU Dairy certified

Whimsical Gifts for All, You Included

Mini Bead Hanukkah Jewelry Making Kit

The charms, beads and more set the stage for getting creative

Heart Dreidel by Michael Aram

A beautiful, nickleplate hand-forged piece from the brand's Heart Collection

Hanukkah Menorah by Artist Yair Emanuel

The modern Tree of Life branch design is offered in 3 sizes

Classic Blue and White Hanukkah Menorah Candles

Chanukah for a Cause menorah candles - Proud to Stand with Israel

Happy Hanukkah Felt Mouse

A delicate, sweet needle-felted handcrafted collectible

LED Light Blue Kurt Adler Hanukkah House

Battery operated, this gingerbread cottage style piece belongs on your table

Gifts for Family and Friends

Ceramic Nail Polish Menorah

Faux nail polish bottles hold the candles on this adorable menorah

Hanukkah Spa Gift Box

This holiday spa in a box includes a succulent along with soap, candle and more

Happy Llamakah Pop Up Hanukkah Card

Send this 3-D LovePop card to the animal and llama lovers on your mailing list

Hanukkah Flower Bouquet Pop Up Card

Also from LovePop, send this sweet card that won't wilt or die like real flowers

Matching Pajamas for Mom, Dad and Kids

Imagine the family photos you'll be able to take wearing these lookalike PJs

Pet Gifts for Cats and Dogs

These cat and dog gifts are perfect for pet parents to give to your four-legged children. They're surprisingly inexpensive, too, so you'll probably want to buy them all!

Crinkle Fish Interactive Cat Toy Play Set

Your kitty will be mesmerized by these 4 fish that make crackling sounds

Dreidel and Gelt Cat Toys

This catnip fleece set is a really popular Hanukkah gift for cats this year

Hannukah Gelt Plush Dog Toy

A fun find for dogs is this stuffed oversized coin made with metallic fabric

Happy Hanukkah Dog Bone Toy

Include your dog in the festivities with this holiday-themed plush dog toy

Hanukkah Plush Cookie Dog Pull Rope Toy

A dog pull toy with pretend dreidel cookies attached that's fun for you both

Hoping you find one or more gifts for someone special on your shopping list. Happy Shopping!

FTC Disclosure: MBE participates in Amazon affiliate advertising program and well as other affiliate marketing programs. So when you click on a link and make a purchase, I will earn a small bit of compensation at no extra cost to you.

Happy Hanukkah to
All Celebrating

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Movie Review

2024-11-08T08:30:00.000-08:00

Movies

by Janis Brett Elspas, Editor

Mommy Blog Expert

A New Family Comedy in Theaters

The movie The Best Christmas Pageant Ever (2024, Rated PG) family friendly comedy film opens in theaters in nationwide on November 8.

A Christmas Film for Kids and Parents

In a world that can feel like it’s moving at a lightning pace, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever offers a relevant, refreshing and beautiful pause at this time of year -- a warm reminder of old-fashioned virtues that transcend time across the generations. This movie adaptation of Barbara Robinson’s beloved book resonates with moms and dads who will see the potential for good in every child, no matter how "bad" they might seem at a glance. For those celebrating Christmas, both parents and kids alike, viewers will also take away values that they can bring with them into the upcoming holiday season.

The story, which takes place during Christmastime, follows the six Herdman siblings—Ralph, Imogene, Leroy, Claude, Ollie, and Gladys -- an eccentric, scrappy, and notorious group of kids whose rowdy ways have earned them a reputation in their small town. But when they unexpectedly audition for the town’s annual Christmas pageant, which has been performed for the past 100 years, they turn tradition on its head in the most hilarious and heartwarming way.

Known for their rebellious ways, the Herdmans come across as anything but sweet, innocent, and angelic, yet the film invites viewers, both kids and grownups, to look deeper. As they learn about the Christmas story and get caught up in the magic of the season, these wild ones surprise everyone, including themselves, showing a glimpse of their own capacities for kindness, bravery, and, yes, goodness.

In the role of Grace Bradley, the courageous and warm-hearted mother who takes on the daunting task of directing the pageant, we see Allison Tolman (known for her award-winning performance in Fargo and Why Women Kill). Tolman brings a delightful mix of compassion and strength as she battles through her doubts to help the Herdmans and the entire community navigate toward seeing the good in everyone.

Scenes from this New Movie . . .

Each Herdman Kid Offers Something Unique

Ralph Herdman (Mason Thames, known for The Black Phone) is the eldest and takes on a slightly reluctant leadership role. With a scowl that hides his vulnerability, Ralph’s character begins to thaw as he learns that kindness can be powerful, not necessarily a trait showing weakness.
Imogene Herdman (Brooklynn Prince, from The Florida Project) is sassy and fearless, with a reputation for stealing. Yet, she’s also incredibly smart and resourceful. Her portrayal as Mary in the pageant becomes one of the film’s most touching transformations, revealing Imogene’s ability to care deeply when given the chance.
Leroy Herdman (Roman Griffin Davis of Jojo Rabbit fame) is mischievous and adventurous, quick to fight but also fiercely loyal to his siblings. Davis’s portrayal captures a playful, impish side that audiences will find both amusing and endearing.
Claude Herdman (Jacob Tremblay, well-known for both Room and Wonder) is quieter than his siblings but has a knack for getting into trouble just the same. Tremblay brings depth to Claude, showcasing a kid who’s lost and simply looking for a place where he can feel he belongs.
Ollie Herdman (Iain Armitage, Young Sheldon) brings an intellectual curiosity mixed with a wild streak that often leads to some pretty chaotic situations. Armitage’s comedic timing is spot-on, adding a layer of humor while also displaying Ollie’s softer side.
Gladys Herdman (McKenna Grace, known for Ghostbusters: Afterlife) is the youngest and most energetic of the group, famous for her shrill cries and dramatic antics. As the “angel” in the pageant, her enthusiasm adds a hilarious twist to her role, showing that even the smallest Herdman has a heart of gold.

With this well-rounded cast of young talents and seasoned grownup actors, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever captures the humor, challenges, and revelations that come when people from different walks of life come together. Through the antics of the Herdman kids, we see that every child -- even those labeled as "troublemakers" -- has the potential for positive change.

What makes this movie a gem is its dedication to showcasing old-fashioned values without feeling preachy or outdated. These are morals rooted in compassion, understanding, and forgiveness -- qualities that the younger generation, so often glued to their smartphones and screens, might need a little reminder of now ad then. Through the antics of the Herdman youngsters, we see that every child, even those labeled as "troublemakers," has the potential for meaningful growth that leads to positive change.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever isn’t just a feel-good holiday flick; it's a call to parents and children alike to slow down, look beyond labels, and find the goodness that’s often hiding in plain sight. This heartwarming, family-friendly story serves as a sweet reminder that sometimes all it takes is a little patience and understanding to bring out the best in each other, especially during the holiday season.

More About The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

See a preview of this film by watching the official movie trailer. Also learn more about The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, visit the movie website and follow @bestchristmaspageantever, @lionsgate, and @kingdomstorycompany on Facebook and Instagram. Buy tickets now to see this film with your family at a local theater near you.

Many thanks to Kingdom Faith Marketing Services for providing screening access to facilitate this movie review. Opinions are 100% my own.

Lost on a Mountain in Maine Movie Review

2024-10-29T15:59:00.000-07:00

Movies

by Janis Brett Elspas, Editor

Mommy Blog Expert

WIT PR provided screening access to facilitate this movie review

New Family Film in Theaters

The new family friendly movie Lost on a Mountain in Maine (2004, Rated PG), produced by Sylvester Stallone, opens in theaters November 1. If you’ve ever been separated from your son or daughter, even for a moment, you know that intense feeling of worry, love, and hope that grips you until you're again reunited with your child. This new feature film docudrama taps into these universal fears and emotions, bringing to the big screen the true story of 12-year-old Donn Fendler, who was lost in the vast and treacherous wilderness of Maine's Katahdin Mountains for nine days in the 1930s.

How Family Bonds Give Strength When Needed Most

This film is more than just a tale of survival; it’s a heartfelt reminder of how powerful family bonds are—especially when facing seemingly insurmountable challenges, when things get really tough. In Lost on a Mountain in Maine, the focus and POV (point of view) splits between Donn’s frightening solo journey and the emotional rollercoaster his family experiences while searching for him. This back-and-forth storytelling creates a deeply relatable experience for viewers, particularly parents, who can’t help but feel for Donn’s mother and father as they grapple with the unknown.

Every scene is an emotional tug-of-war, with Donn fighting to survive while his family struggles to hold onto hope. The film opens with a scene you likely relate to: a family hiking, enjoying the outdoors and quality time together. As the story moves further, Donn joins his father, brother and a family friend playing trail guide and together they set out on a challenging and dangerous hike. Headstrong Donn climbs quicker than the rest of the group and before he knows it, he's separate from the others.

Now lost, what should have been just an innocent day hike adventure quickly takes a dangerous turn. Donn finds himself alone in the dense, rugged woods of Maine, struggling to navigate his way back while facing severe weather, unfamiliar rugged terrain, hunger and thirst, multiple injuries, and exhaustion. What’s truly special about this movie is how it shows Donn's resilience of never giving up hope, born from his memories of home and family.

The movie’s portrayal of the main character's mental journey as he calls on his inner strength is both touching and inspiring. In moments of despair, Donn thinks of his family: his mother’s comforting words, his dad’s strength, and his siblings’ laughter. Even though he’s physically alone, these memories serve as an emotional lifeline, keeping him moving forward against unbelievable odds.

Back home, his family is enduring their own ordeal. As moms and dads, we know that feeling of helplessness when our kids face trouble. Donn’s mom, like so many of us would, turns to her faith, her emotions swinging between desperate hope and fear. His dad is portrayed as a strong, focused figure, out in front of the search and rescue team's efforts throughout the ordeal.

There’s an incredible strength that parents show for their children, and the movie captures this beautifully. You feel their pain, love, and unbreakable determination as they try to bring their boy home.

Spoiler Alert

When Donn is finally found, the reunion with his family will warm your heart. You can see how much he’s grown and matured, not only from his experiences of being alone in the wild, but from realizing just how loved he is. And his family? They hold him tighter than ever before, filled with gratitude and love for their boy who has returned to them. It’s the ultimate expression of the strength of family bonds, showing how, no matter what life throws our way, love and resilience will see us through.

Lost on a Mountain in Maine isn’t just a movie about survival; it’s a powerful family story. It reminds us of the strength family brings, how memories of loved ones can inspire us to keep going, bonding and keeping us connected even in the darkest times.

This is a film that every family member old enough to see a PG rated picture should see together. It’s a reminder to hold loved ones close, in good times and bad, and to trust in the unbreakable bonds that connect us. So grab some tissues, and get ready for an adventure that will leave you feeling grateful for the love and strength of family. Lost on a Mountain in Maine is a film that doesn’t just retell a true story that actually happened almost 100 years ago; it reminds us of what’s really most important in life.

More About Lost on a Mountain in Maine

See a preview of this film by watching the official movie trailer. Also learn more about Lost on a Mountain in Maine, filmed on location in the Hudson Valley, New York, by visiting the movie website and by following the film on Facebook and Instagram. Buy tickets now at a local theater near you.

Many thanks to WIT PR for providing screening access to facilitate this movie review. Opinions are 100% my own.