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Is Your Yard Kid-Proof?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 18 Apr 2016 11:43:00 +0000

Nowadays, children oftentimes stay in the house playing games on the computer, watching TV, and simply chatting on their cell phones. But even though these types of activities offer certain benefits, it is also important to encourage kids to play outdoors. They should go outside to enjoy the fresh air and to get more exercise as they run and play with other children and peers.

Outdoor Fun Begins With Safety and Security

It's also a good opportunity for the family to bond together and have some healthy outdoor fun. But first things first. Take the time to inspect your yard, because the typical backyard can include some dangers – especially for younger kids. Always keep the safety and security of your family as top priority. Here are a few pointers to ensure your garden is kid-proof.

The garden should be fenced in to ensure the children do not wander out of your garden. Be sure the gates have secure locks.

Remove prickly shrubs from the garden or have them enclosed so children do not get entangled in the thorns. Some plants have sharp stems that can cause nasty cuts. Kids might not notice these shrubs when playing around the garden.

Keep all garden tools in an enclosed place, like a tool shed or inside the garage. And to be doubly-safe, be sure to lock the tool shed and garage.

Fix damaged paved areas and walkways. Cracks can cause people to trip and get hurt.

Check your lawn for stones and other sharp objects. Your grass should be mowed regularly so small items do not remain hidden in the grass. You should remove pet poo. Stepping on pet poo can be disgusting, not to mention the worms and insects that could go in your child's shoes.

Keep barbeque tools safely out of reach.

Make sure your swings, slides and other similar play equipment are located on soft grass. Otherwise, put rubber play mats around the area.

Check your trees and branches. One thing a child finds exciting and very adventuresome is climbing trees. Although your goal is to prevent them from climbing trees, it seems that climbing comes naturally to kids. So, it’s important to make sure the trees are safe to climb.

Make sure the branches are sturdy and do not break suddenly. You should cut off the weak branches. Make sure the area around the tree has rubber matting. It may help prevent serious injuries if they fall off the tree.

Always keep a first aid kit in the house. Hopefully you will never have to use it. It could help treat minor injuries until you can get them to the hospital. Be sure everyone is familiar with the 911 emergency number.

You may have other danger areas in your garden. Take a walk around the yard and inspect it thoroughly. Picture youself as a child once again and imagine where you would go and what you would do in the garden. You might discover other aspects to kid-proof.

If you have additional backyard safety tips, please share them with us. The team at Package From Santa is dedicated to providing helpful information and we will be happy to share your tips with others.

Fruity Dessert Recipes That Your Kids Can Help With

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 20 Mar 2016 17:19:00 +0000

Fruit can be turned into delicious desserts that are fun to make.

Desserts are a welcome treat at the end of a hearty meal. Simple and tasty fruity desserts go great with any meal. Why not have the children join you in making fruity desserts?

The kids will enjoy eating the fruits, especially if they help prepare the desserts. Here are some fruity desserts that can be easily prepared by children.

Cinnamon Bananas

Cinnamon bananas are healthy and sweet. This recipe will serve 6 people.

You need:

· 6 bananas (medium size will do fine)

· 4 cups ice cream (you can choose any flavor of ice cream)

· 2 cups brown sugar

· 1 ½ tablespoons of squeezed lemon juice (you can use the bottled juice if the kids don't like squeezing lemons)

· 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon

Mix the sugar and cinnamon and put it in a bowl. Cut each banana lengthwise. The cutting should be done by an adult. Have the children sprinkle the bananas with the lemon juice.

Then let the kids roll the bananas in the cinnamon and sugar mixture until the banana is fully coated. Grill the bananas for a few minutes. When it is ready to serve, put a few scoops of the ice cream on the top. It has a semblance of a banana split, but the taste is more fabulous.

Fruit Surprise Dessert

You can also make a dessert with a lot more different fruits in it, like pineapple, peaches, apples, and raspberries.

You will need:

· 1 cup each of sliced apples, sliced pineapples, sliced peaches, and raspberries

· (You can use other fruits and berries that are in season)

· 3 cups brown sugar

· 1 pint ice cream (any flavor will do)

Mix the fruits together with the sugar until they are fully coated. Most kids are thrilled to mix the fruits in the sugar. Grill the fruits for a few minutes until they become glazed.

Transfer them to a bowl and top it off with several scoops of ice cream.

If you don't have ice cream, you can mix the glazed fruits with cereal and milk. Put the mixture in the freezer to cool off for a few minutes.

Fruits are healthy and when made into sweet desserts, can become more tasty and delicious. Have the children choose their favorite fruits. Just changing the fruits used will make the dessert a new adventure each time it’s made. The kids will look forward to trying each new concoction as they wonder how sweet and tasty the fruity dessert will be.

Frozen Fruit Salad

Another great dessert is fruit salad. The preparation of this dessert needs a little more time because the salad has to be cold when served. You may have to keep the salad in the freezer for several hours. But the actual prep time is very quick and it’s easy to make.

You will need:

· 1 cherry pie filling

· 20 oz. crushed pineapples (drained)

· 1 can condensed milk (sweetened)

· 8 oz. Cool Whip

· ¼ cup lemon juice

· 1 cup pecans (chopped)

Just mix a cherry pie filling with crushed pineapples, pecans, condensed milk, lemon juice and Cool Whip. The mixture can be chilled in a casserole dish or even in muffin tins. The fruit salad tastes delicious!

Most kids love to help in the kitchen. Do you have a favorite fruit dessert or other dish that fun to make? Why not share it with Package From Santa? Please add it in the comments below.

Lots of Things to Celebrate During the Month of February

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 17 Feb 2016 16:30:00 +0000

There are a number of holidays and events in February that you can celebrate with your children. The holiday may give you time off from work, but more than that, it gives you an opportunity of bonding with your children. If February is still chlly and cold, you can celebrate the holidays by playing with the children at home.

President's Day

President's Day is celebrated on the third Monday of February. Originally declared to honor the birthday of George Washington, it now gives recognition to other presidents. The actual date varies. For 2016, President's Day will fall on February 15. You can play parlor games with the children, such as getting to know the presidents. Prepare the questions and answer sheets ahead of time. Not only will the games help strengthen family bonds, the time spent together will enhance the knowledge of your children regarding the different presidents of the United States.

Valentine's Day

February 14 is Valentines Day. Why not combine President's Day with Valentine's Day and have a grand party with the family? You can spruce up the house with flowers and provide chocolates for everybody. You can exchange cards and gifts as tokens of your love for one another. Have each member of the family make their own handcrafted cards. It can be an enjoyable and exciting family gathering.

Groundhog's Day

Groundhog's Day is on the second of February. People look forward to this occasion since it is an indication that winter is almost over. You can have fun with the family by making a variety of crafts, such as making a groundhog from construction paper. You can also make groundhog masks. Decorating the house with groundhog figures and pictures will enhance the holiday spirit.

Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras is considered as the last celebration before the beginning of Lent. It is the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. For 2016, Mardi Gras is on February 9. Some places celebrate Mardi Gras with parades and public dancing. There is a carnival atmosphere in the air. You can bring the family to watch the parades and join in the festivities.

Even if the weather is cold, or if you cannot make it to the scheduled celebrations in your town, you can hold your own Mardi Gras party at home with the family, relatives and close friends. Set up a festive atmosphere, turn on the music and dance. Wherever you do your celebrations, make sure the family joins in. It's so much fun celebrating with your family.

Why not create your own personalized days to celebrate? You can designate a specialized holiday each month that will have meaning for you and your family. For instance, you might want to celebrate education one day during the month of January and honor nature during a day in February. The choice is yours – you can create your own customized reasons to celebrate and add those to your family calendar.

Keep reading the Package From Santa blog for more great ideas about ways to strengthen the family bonds.

Happy February!

How to Help Your Kids Get Their New Year Off to a Great Start

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 20 Jan 2016 17:18:00 +0000

Everybody, especially the children, enjoyed eating all types of food and goodies during the holidays. They played on their computers, talked on cellphones and watched television. Now it's time to start the year right by learning to live a healthy lifestyle. It is much easier to set goals of a healthy lifestyle for your kids if you join in with them. Make it a family goal. Children join in more easily when they see it as a family activity. You should make the goal appear exciting and enjoyable.

Make healthy eating a family affair!

Eating Right

Start off by providing nutritious food, such as meat and vegetables. Fast foods like pizza, fries, and burgers should be minimized. Eating vegetables becomes more enjoyable when you turn it into a game. Try mixing different types of vegetables together. The meals become more colorful and interesting. Ask your children to identify the different vegetables that are mixed together. You can offer rewards for those that get a perfect score.

Be sure your kids eat a good breakfast. Breakfast is considered the most critical meal of the day. Breakfast should provide sufficient nutrients and energy for the day. Load breakfast meals with fruits, cereals, milk and other healthy food. A variety of food during breakfast makes it easier for your kids to select different types of food. But be sure they get an assortment of food for breakfast. The varied choices make the meals more interesting and exciting. You can offer prizes to the child that eats the most assorted healthy food during breakfast.

The entire family will enjoy getting active.

Keep Them Moving!

Besides eating a healthy diet kids need to have adequate exercise. You can have them do chores around the house to keep them busy and moving around. You can set up outdoor games to keep your kids more physically active. If they get sufficient exercise during the day, it shouldn't be difficult getting them to sleep early. Rest and sleep are equally important in ensuring a healthy lifestyle.

Remember, children do not fully understand the importance of a healthy lifestyle. They are young, strong, and vibrant. You need to show them how to live a healthy lifestyle. They will see the benefits of living a healthy lifestyle in time. And they will be glad you showed them how to integrate healthy eating habits and regular physical activities into a busy lifestyle.

When you’re in need of ideas on ways to make life more interesting, remember that the team at Package From Santa is here to help. Please visit the blog often - we add new content each month.

Christmas Around the World

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 17 Dec 2015 15:15:00 +0000

Christmas Around the World

When we talk about Christmas, it’s easy to assume that the holiday is the same all over the world. But is that really true?

Traditionally, kids in the United States write letters to Santa to talk about the things they want for Christmas. If they’ve been good throughout the year they will likely receive a letter from Santa that assures them their name is on his ‘Nice List’. These same kids will probably have a decorated Christmas tree in their homes and they will hang stockings for Santa to fill with wonderful surprises.

For most of us, Christmas includes an exchange of gifts, a visit from Santa, and a delicious meal that is shared with loved ones.

But what about Christmas in other places: Is the holiday celebrated in the same way? Now, we have Internet and social networks that make it possible for us to see and experience how people observe Christmas in different parts of the world.

Christmas Foods

Christmas food is not only ham, turkey, and delicious side dishes and desserts. In other parts of the world, different kinds of food will be served on Christmas. Most European countries

celebrate Christmas Eve instead of Christmas Day. The Czech Republic, Austria and Germany serve carp with vegetables.

The carp is cooked in a beer and ginger sauce which makes it very tasty and spicy. Bulgaria serves twelve dishes, none of which are meat. They are different kinds of beans, fruits, cakes, cheese and spinach. Some countries, like Australia and Brazil follow the traditional turkey, ham, and stuffing viands.

The Christmas meals in France vary based on the regions. Parisians enjoy foie gras and oysters, while goose is the main fare in Alsace and Burgundy. Spain and Portugal concentrate on seafood such as sea bass, almonds and marzipan.

Christmas Traditions

Some Christmas traditions follow the cultures of the country. Russia celebrates Christmas on January 7. On Christmas Day, the Czech Republic women try to predict if they will get married in the coming year. With their back to the main house door, the shoe is thrown over their shoulder. If the heel is nearer the door, they will remain single.

German children leave their shoe outside the door and if they are good, the shoe will be filled with candies. This is similar to leaving your stockings in the fireplace, with the expectation that it will be filled with goodies the following morning. Slovakians throw a spoonful of loksa to the ceiling to predict if they will have a good harvest the following year.

The harvests are plentiful if more loksa stays stuck to the ceiling. Christmas is normally celebrated on December 25. But there are countries that because of their culture and tradition, might celebrate it on a different day and for a longer period.

But wherever it is and whatever food you partake, the spirit of Christmas lives in everyone. From the team at Package From Santa: A very Merry Christmas to everyone!!!

The First Thanksgiving

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 18 Nov 2015 17:35:00 +0000

Things You Didn't Know About the First Thanksgiving

The Thanksgiving today is very different from what the first Thanksgiving was. Firstly, Thanksgiving was looked upon as a time for prayer, giving thanks for the bountiful food and the friendship the pilgrims forged with the Indians.

Now it is considered a holiday and a day for celebration. This is not too far from the reasons behind the first Thanksgiving. On that day, pilgrims and Indians took the day off to eat, be merry and enjoy the company of one another.

Thanksgiving Food

The food during the first Thanksgiving meals was very unlike what we have today. The pilgrims and Indians had to contend with the food that was available at that time. In terms of meat, there was deer, venison, duck and other wild fowls. Turkey, as we know it today, was not available at that time.

Aside from the meat, there was a great deal of seafood, such as bass, clams, oysters and lobsters. This is because the sea and lakes were nearby. Interestingly, we rarely see seafood now as part of the Thanksgiving meal.

There were nuts and berries growing wild around the area. The Native Americans taught the pilgrims how to plant and farm on the arid land they were living on. However, the land was full of rocks and the soil was too acidic. The pilgrims could not successfully grow crops until the Native Americans taught them the technique of small gardens.

Gardening Basics Provided Some of the Main Dishes

Fresh vegetables are still part of the typical Thanksgiving meal.

There were small sections of land around the area that could grow crops. By limiting the gardens to the land that could grow the crops, the pilgrims enjoyed successful results. Although the harvests were small, it was enough for a family. And there were many small farm plots around the settlers.

The Thanksgiving meals included crops from the garden. There was corn, squash, and beans. The stalks of the corn were used for the vines of the beans. The beans provided nitrates to the soil, keeping it fertile for the next planting.

Thanksgiving: A Favorite Holiday Then and Now

The first Thanksgiving included fresh vegetables, fish and meat. Although they didn't have pumpkin pie, potatoes, and bread stuffing during the first Thanksgiving meal, the food the pilgrims and Indians shared was probably delicious.

Our Thanksgiving meals today have gone through a series of changes over the years. But despite the changes in food, we still maintain the tradition of giving thanks for our food, the family, and close friends.

From everyone at Package From Santa, Happy Thanksgiving to all!

6 Steps to Make Your 2015 Holiday Season Special

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 18 Oct 2015 14:57:00 +0000

6 Steps to Make Your 2015 Holiday Season Special

Are you like the team at Package From Santa, are you already excited about Christmas 2015? We are gearing things up and preparing for a truly magical holiday season!

The North Pole is beautiful this time of year. It seems that everything suddenly looks more vibrant. The holiday season is exciting and we very busy and of course, and Santa and Mrs. Claus are too. Santa is reviewing his list of nice little boys and girls and he has stacks and stacks of paper ready so he can write letters to them. Mrs. Claus is spending lots of time baking her famous cookies.

But at the North Pole everyone plays an important role in the holiday season. The reindeer are practicing their jumps and leaps and the elves are busy in the toy workshop. But that’s enough about us for now.

The truth is, everyone at the North Pole is working hard to make sure the 2015 holiday season is the best holiday season ever!

What about you? Have you started planning your Holiday Season yet? Don’t panic, but October is almost over. That means you don’t have time to waste. On the other hand, you do have time to do all the things necessary to make this Christmas extra memorable.

Step 1: Take a deep breath….

Step 2: Make a general to-do list….

This will include things like ‘holiday shopping’, ‘holiday decorating’, holiday party’, ‘gift list’, ‘letters from Santa’, and, well, you get the idea.

Step 3: Create specific to-do lists….

Use the general to-do list to make detailed lists for each topic.

Step 4: Start completing and checking things off your lists….

Step 5: Celebrate the completion of your work….

Step 6: Enjoy the 2015 Holiday Season!

What Does Preparing for Winter Mean to You?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 15:57:00 +0000

Winter is coming and it will be here sooner than you might think. Even though the official start of winter is December 21^st, most of us refer to cold temperatures as wintertime. As the temperatures drop we start thinking about everything from winter boots and clothes to staying warm and avoiding colds and flu. Fortunately, with a little planning, you can be prepared for winter and all it brings.

Before it gets too cool you should take inventory of winter clothing and boots. Kids grow fast so even those cute boots you bought Suzy after Christmas last year may be too small for her now. The idea is to ensure that Suzy and Johnny will have warm boots and jackets that fit when they are needed. A cold morning is not the ideal time to discover that these items are too small.

Of course you want your home to be warm, so take some time to ensure that your furnace is operating as it should, that your chimney is ready for fires, and that you have enough insulation in the attic. You might also want to add caulking around windows and doors.

Now’s a good time to think about flu shots. It’s also a good time to gather typical supplies you will want and need for cold and flu season. This could include things like a humidifier, vapor rub, cold and cough medicine and tissues. Planning ahead may help you avoid a last minute trip to the drug store.

Along the same thought, consider what foods are ideal on cool fall and winter days. This could be a great time to stock up on your favorite soups, teas and other ‘warm me up’ yummies.

Everyone at Package From Santa understands that winter brings changes, some good and some not so good. But along with cooler temperatures and the challenges it can bring, we can also look forward to the winter holidays and wintertime fun.

Keep your focus on the positive and plan ahead for winter, and keep reading this Package From Santa blog. It’s dedicated to providing great information that families can put to use. We post helpful advice on a regular basis.

End Summer With Some Fun!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 15 Aug 2015 15:51:00 +0000

End Summer With Some Fun!

Summer will soon come to an end, but before that happens there's still time to plan some summer fun. Let's talk about some of the different ways people celebrate the end of summer and the beginning of fall.

Vacation

A vacation is fun anytime of year. But there's something special about time away from home when you know it's the last vacation of the summer. After all, school will be starting and the temperatures will be dropping. Lots of changes are on the way. A vacation can be a good way to rejuvenate yourself before the new routines start, and a vacation is a good way to encourage family bonding.

Backyard Barbecue

Getting together with family and friends in your own backyard can be lots of fun. All you need to add is a great game or activity and some delicious food. The more people you include the more fun you will have. And the bonus is, guests can contribute to the meal. Why not plan a backyard barbecue now?

Trip to the Zoo

Whether you visit the zoo often or it's been years since you've been, the zoo is not only interesting and educational, but watching animals can also be relaxing. A trip to the zoo can be an ideal way to spend time with your family.

Visit the Fair

Take advantage of the opportunity, if you're lucky enough to live in a place that has an annual fair. Whether it's a state fair or a smaller one, the fair can be lots of fun. Even if you are not interested in the rides or shows, you can enjoy some unique food and spend time people-watching.

As summer ends we can all look forward to the beauty that fall brings as the leave change from green to orange, red and shades of gold. And of course, along with fall and winter we can start thinking about some special holidays, like Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas. The team at Package From Santa is already gearing up for the fall and winter months.

How about you? How will you end the summer? Please share your comments with us.

Staying Cool and Having Fun

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 18 Jul 2015 15:30:00 +0000

Staying Cool and Having Fun

Summer heat can be unbearable. You can cool off in your own backyard by taking a long dip in your swimming pool. But of course, not everyone has a pool in their own backyard. Fortunately, there are a lot of other ways of cooling off. For instance, swinging on a tire or resting in a hammock is a relaxing and comfortable way to ignore the heat.

Get Wet & Stay Cool

But there is no better way of cooling off than getting yourself completely wet. You can use a water hose and spray everybody in the yard. Join the fun by spraying yourself too. Set up the sprinkler and have everyone play games around the sprinkler.

Games with water guns are lots of fun and can be played by everyone. You can even use water balloons to fight against the water guns. If you have toddlers and small children, you can set up a kiddie’s pool for them to wade and splash in. Even older kids can join in – they can lie down or wade in the shallow pool.

Playing Games Can Take Your Mind Off the Heat

If you have a large backyard, you can play other outdoor sports like football, baseball, soccer and volleyball. You can spray everyone with the water hose while they are playing the various games. Try to think of other outdoor games, like horseshoes, cricket and basketball. Focus on enjoying the breeze and staying wet and cool.

Cool Off With Homemade Fruity Popsicles

When people get thirsty, offer them homemade fruity popsicles. It is healthy and refreshing, especially on a hot summer day. You can get the fruits that are in season, such berries, watermelon, melon, apples and grapes. Place them in a blender with some sugar and nuts.

Pour the liquid juice into paper cups and molds. Place the cups and molds in the freezer. After they are frozen, they are ready to be served. Have a lot of popsicles ready. Everyone will love the taste and they will be asking for more.

Healthy Veggie Popsicles

You can also make veggie popsicles from tomatoes, carrots and cucumber. You can also mix them in the blender with a little salt and pepper for flavor. Keep everyone cool and refreshed during those hot summer days. Shower them with healthy popsicles.

We hope these ideas from the team at Package From Santa help keep you cool during the hot days of summer!

The Fourth of July

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 19 Jun 2015 13:30:00 +0000

The Fourth of July: Facts & More

The Fourth of July is known as Independence Day in America. It was on that memorable day in 1772 that the president of Congress signed the Declaration of Independence. This formally freed the United States from the rule of Great Britain. It is commemorated each year to remind everyone of liberty and freedom.

Celebrations are conducted nationwide. Parades are usually held in the mornings. Speeches on patriotism are given by politicians. The flag is displayed in every public building. The most common tradition is the display of fireworks. Firework displays are done during the evening hours, after dark.

The colorful firework displays are more elegant and beautiful when they are lighted against the dark skies and twinkling stars. Many people buy fireworks for their own personal show in the neighborhood.

It’s Time for Outdoor Fun

Many activities, such as baseball, outdoor parties and picnics are part of the Fourth of July celebrations. Since it is summer, it’s the perfect time for these outdoor events. Kids can play Frisbee, baseball, football or swim or play in a sandbox.

Food Plays an Important Role in Fourth of July Activities

Backyard barbecues are held everywhere. Hamburger and hotdogs are good choices for barbecue meals. You can vary the hamburger patties by using different kinds of meats, like veal, lamb and beef. You can mix some celery, onions and pickles in the meat. Use a little seasoning of salt and pepper. You can put in some egg and bread crumbs to keep the burger firm and moist.

Try a variety of hamburgers and see which ones are best enjoyed by your family and friends. The hamburgers can be given more zest by adding some barbecue sauce on the grill. If people prefer cheeseburgers over the plain burgers, you can use the standard Cheddar and Provolone cheese. You can make a typical burger more exotic by using Blue Cheese.

Create your own special dips to go with your barbecue foods. There are many refreshing dips for summer. Mexican dips, such as salsa and black beans are very tasty and go well with all kinds of dishes.

Be sure the buns are soft and filled with sesame seeds. The buns should be able to absorb the juice oozing from the burgers. You should have relish, ketchup, mustard, and sauerkraut available for the hotdogs.

Baked beans also go well with hotdogs. Let your guests mix and match the condiments for their burgers and hotdogs. Include an offering of chips, potato salad, corn on the cob and other favorite side dishes. And don't forget to include a dessert or two.

After a day of fun activities and lots of good food you will likely be ready to slow things down. End the day by relaxing with friends and family as you enjoy watching the fireworks light up the sky.

From Everyone at Package From Santa -

Happy Fourth of July!!!

Sun Safety

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 17 May 2015 10:25:00 +0000

Sun Safety: Protecting Your Family

Be careful of overexposure to the sun. The sun can be beneficial but too much sun can cause more harm than good. The sun emits ultraviolet rays which, over an extended length of time can result in burns, cancer and other adverse reactions. The intensity of the rays can vary depending on the day, time and location.

The rays can become more intense during noontime and at higher altitudes where there are fewer clouds. Although the body can provide some protection against the sun’s rays, too much exposure can result in extensive bodily damage. Overexposure can result in dry skin, premature aging and even skin cancer. You should protect your skin (and your family’s) from overexposure to the sun’s rays.

Kids and the Sun

Children are very susceptible to overexposure. And during the warm months kids want to be outdoors. They go to the beach, they indulge in many outdoor sports and activities: they simply enjoy the warmth of the sun.

Babies are more liable to burns because of their thinner skin. You should keep babies in the shade. They should not be subjected to direct sunlight.

Older children are harder to control. They are more energetic and enjoy the outdoors. They do not realize the sun’s rays can reflect from other surfaces and harm them. For instance, people on the beach under an umbrella can still get burned because the sun’s rays reflect from the sand and the water.

Sun Protection is a Must

Have your children use sunglasses and protective clothing when they are outdoors. They should try to stay in the shade and avoid areas that reflect the sun’s rays, such as cement and glass. They should apply sunscreen on a regular basis. You can check the SPF factor to determine the amount of sunscreen to apply. Protect the lips with chap sticks. Sunglasses can prevent the glare of the sun’s rays from affecting the eyes. Make hats part of your kids’ regular attire when in the sun.

To help encourage healthy protection from the sun’s harmful rays, let your kids choose their type of protective clothes and sun hats. Most kids will tend to wear clothes that they choose themselves.

You’ll find lots of helpful content at this Package From Santa blog. We cover everything from health and safety tips to ideas for holidays and special events to information about home and lifestyle hacks. Stay informed – visit often!

Kite Flying

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 17 Apr 2015 19:30:00 +0000

Kite Flying: It's Not Just for Kids!

Do you remember the fun of flying a kite? Flying a kite can be a very exhilarating experience. There is a thrill of having a kite soar high in the skies and watching colorful kites fly can be very enjoyable.

You can put the kite in the air several ways. The more traditional way would be to run along an empty stretch until the kite becomes air borne. If the wind is strong, you can have someone hold the kite a distance away from you. When a strong gust of wind comes along, the person can let go of the kite and let the strong wind carry it upwards.

Up and Flying

Getting the kite into the air is just the start of flying a kite. You need to keep the kite flying. Otherwise, the kite will just fall down to the ground. You have to pull the kite with your string and make it catch more wind so it will stay in the air. You have to pull the string and move around the field to keep the kite in the air.

A wide open field or along the beach are ideal places for flying a kite. Make sure the area is clear of stones, glass and rocks. You will be watching the kite and not paying much attention to the ground. There should be a constant steady flow of wind high in the air. You have to be alert because strong gusts and wind turbulence could make the kite fly in a haphazard manner. Make sure that any bystanders stay a reasonable distance away from you.

Kite Construction

The kite has to be sturdy. The frame should be lightweight to enable the kite to fly easily. It should be strong to withstand the strong gusts of wind. Kite materials, such as bamboo frame, silk paper, string and glue are available in hobby shops. You can also get basic instructions on making the kite.

Be sure the kite is well balanced and symmetrical in shape. Glue the paper on the frame and tie a string on the frame. It should be a long string. You hold the other end of the string and guide the kite while the kite is soaring in the air. Constant practice will make you and your entire family proficient in flying a kite.

The team at Package From Santa think kite flying can be an amazing family activity. If you agree, please share this post with others!

Springtime Allergies

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 15 Mar 2015 18:00:00 +0000

Staying Ahead of Springtime Allergies

Springtime brings with it many things: from fun outdoor activities and games to cookouts and walks in the park. Unfortunately, spring can also mean dealing with allergies. For many kids, the first experience with springtime allergies happens between the ages of 2 and 5. These allergies can be associated with such triggers as weed pollen, mold spores, pet dander, or dust mites, among other allergens.

Some of the symptoms may seem like other types of illnesses. While a family history can play a role, it is not always an indicator that your child will develop allergies. We’ve gathered a list of some of the signs/symptoms and precautions for springtime allergies that you can be on-guard for.

Signs & Symptoms

1) Congestion. Congestion is usually associated with colds, but if the problem lasts more than 2 or 3 days there’s a good chance that the stuffy or runny nose situation is related to an allergy.

2) Fever-free. Unlike flus and other ‘bugs’, allergies do not result in a fever or body aches.

3) Watery eyes. Allergies can cause the eyes to become watery and/or itchy.

4) Ear troubles. Unfortunately, in some instances, allergies can result in ear infections.

5) Rash. Allergies can lead to a skin rash, which may develop on the back, chest, or practically any area of the body.

6) High pollen count = increased symptoms. When the pollen count goes up the chances for allergy symptoms is increased. If possible, keep your child indoors when the pollen count is elevated.

Care

There are plenty of over-the-counter allergy medications available, but it is always best to seek the advice of a healthcare professional. Your doctor can determine if in fact, the symptoms are related to an allergy and he (or she) can make suggestions about the type of medications best-suited for your child’s particular needs. In some cases a prescription medication or allergy shots may be needed.

Minimizing the Problem

Preventing the spread of pollen, dander, etc. can be a helpful way to decrease the resulting problems. Adding a high-efficiency furnace filter and a HEPA filter to your vacuum can help prevent the circulation of allergens throughout your home.

Keep reading the Package From Santa blog for more helpful information related to kids’ health and other important issues.

Simple Craft Projects Are Important

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 18 Feb 2015 16:00:00 +0000

Why Simple Craft Projects Are Important

You can get your children involved in the joy of crafting by starting them with simple crafts projects. As are exposed to easy to do crafts they can handle they will become increasingly interested. The completion of a craft project helps kids feel a sense of accomplishment and pride. On the flip-side, kids can get turned off from crafts when the projects are difficult. This leads to feelings of frustration and can make kids feel overly challenged.

Age and Experience Matter

Difficult and challenging crafts can be handled by kids with more experience and by older children. The goal is to ensure your children experience the joy of doing crafts and hobbies during their childhood. Teaching your kids about hobbies and crafts is an excellent way of spending quality time with them.

Getting Prepared

Although most families have a collection of craft-related materials, not everyone has the items needed to complete a craft project. Before starting it is important to make of list of the things you will need and gather those so they are on-hand.

For instance, to create a simple bead bracelet or other beaded project you will likely need many beads, thread or thin wire, clasps, and some tools, such as pliers and wire cutters. You should make sure your beads have small holes to insert the thin wire. Otherwise, you will have to drill small holes through the beads. There are many inexpensive colorful beads of different sizes available. Make sure to have some beads in the same size and color and others in varying sizes and colors.

Creativity is Part of the Fun

Designing is the most important aspect in crafts. You should allow your children to come up with their own designs. Bead necklaces, bracelets and earrings are fairly simple projects that most kids can handle. You can give some suggestions and show pictures of different styles, but it is important to encourage kids to use their imagination and creativity. In the end this helps kids feel more pride in their work.

Keep the Interest Alive

As kids continue to try out their craft skills and creativity they become more and more proficient. There may even come a time when they can give their craft projects as gifts or possibly sell the items.

You can help encourage your kids to stay involved in crafting and related hobbies. A simple craft project could develop into a hobby that lasts a lifetime.

Do you like learning about activities for kids and family-related topics? If so you will want to bookmark this Package From Santa blog. Visit often to keep up with helpful posts.

Martin Luther King Jr.

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 15 Jan 2015 12:30:00 +0000

Martin Luther King Jr.: Words to Guide Us

Life is a journey and it is not always easy to stay on track. Fortunately, we can all benefit from meaningful words of inspiration and hope from exceptional leaders and forward thinkers. In fact, many of these infamous quotes can be ideal teaching tools for our kids.

Martin Luther King Jr. was a great and courageous man. He fought for what he believed in. He spoke his beliefs to everybody. He was honest and truthful in all this undertakings. He encouraged everyone to fight for their rights. His actions and words have spread throughout the country.

His words are just as meaningful and relevant today as they were many years ago. Take a few minutes off your hectic schedule and reflect on his sayings. Pass it on to your children. Explain to them the importance and significance in today's age.

Martin Luther King, Jr. said, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” The many wars and terrorism happening worldwide can only be combated through peace and love. Children should never be bullies. They should be positive and understanding in their actions. Find out if your child is being bullied or challenged to physical fights in school. Explain to them the acts of compassion, understanding and kindness. Encourage and support kids in doing the right things.

Another of King's wise sayings is “Means we use must be as pure as the ends we seek”. Many people look forward to winning the prize regardless of how they get it. We should make children aware that how we win the prize is just as important as winning the prize. For instance, lying and cheating are not good ways of becoming rich and successful. Some people talk maliciously about others and spread bad rumors about them. They get recognized and accepted by destroying the personality and credibility of others. Help your kids recognize the importance of becoming successful through their own merits. Martin Luther King Jr. practiced this saying avidly.

A third saying is “The quality, not the longevity, of one's life is what is important.” It is natural to want to live a long life. But what is more important is living a life that has meaning and importance not only to you but to others. Make it a point to role model for your kids, let them see that how you live your life is important. The journey is important!

There are many other sayings of Martin Luther King, Jr. All of the sayings are full of wisdom and honesty. Quotes from wise people like Martin Luther King, Jr. can be a great way to teach children about how to succeed in life. Explain how these principles can be applied to everyday life.

This Package From Santa blog provides tips and ideas about issues related to kids, family, and more. Please visit often to stay up to date.

New Year Family Traditions

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 27 Dec 2014 12:00:00 +0000

New Year Family Traditions

Making family traditions for special occasions, like Thanksgiving and Christmas, is a good practice. Traditions help the family remember the past and strengthen the bond between family members. The New Year is a special occasion that should also have family traditions.

By this time Santa Claus is back at the North Pole resting up. He spent lots of time reading specially crafted letters to Santa and made decisions about who is naughty and who is nice. Then he made his long journey to deliver gifts to kids all across the world. He is tired and probably sleeping right now.

But that doesn't mean you should be sleeping too! Don’t sleep the day away on January 1^st. Many families fail to have traditions because everybody is tired on New Year's Day. They are resting from staying up late celebrating New Year's Eve. You can have traditions for New Year's Eve and another set of traditions for New Year's Day. The traditions can make the New Year events more meaningful and memorable.

For New Year's Eve, you can have some punch and fruit to eat as you welcome the New Year. A family camp-out can be a great way to welcome the New Year. Try camping in the house – kids will love the ‘adventure’ and you will be much more comfortable. You can set the tent up in the living room. You can play games and tell stories around the tent while waiting for midnight.

You can spend the time discussing various resolutions. Some resolutions may be difficult to keep. You can also talk about ways of keeping the resolutions. While you will probably make well-planned resolutions designed to make you a better person, your kids will likely have different ideas about resolutions. Remind your kids, and yourself, that resolutions should not be too difficult to maintain. Otherwise, it’s easy to lose interest in working to meet the goals.

New Year resolutions should not be too easy either. If they are you (or your kids) will not feel a real sense of accomplishment when the goal is met. After sharing each other’s resolutions you can write them down. Each family member can make their own predictions about which resolutions will be kept. You can then review these next year as you again celebrate the end of one year and the beginning of another.

Whoever has the most correct predictions can win prizes. You can also have another set of predictions about other matters, such as world events and sports. This will make the children become more aware of happenings around the world.

Special Meals Can Become Family Traditions

On New Year's Day, you can have brunch, a combined breakfast and lunch meal. This will give everyone a chance to sleep late. If people are still tired, you can have a New Year dinner instead. It is important the family eat together on the first day of the year. The family meal produces a closer bonding among the family members.

Clean-Up Time

This can also be the time to put away the Christmas decorations. All the family members can pitch in and help keep the decorations for the next year. If you have an artificial tree, you may want to pack and store it away. Don't forget to wish everyone a Happy New Year. Family members tend to become too familiar with one another and assume many basic practices. A Happy New Year greeting is always appreciated.

Happy New Year to All!

Christmas Day

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 20 Dec 2014 12:00:00 +0000

Christmas Day: Celebrating With the Kids

Most people will spend Christmas Eve enjoying a delicious Christmas dinner. Family members may then gather around the tree and sing Christmas carols. Story telling is sometimes part of the activities during Christmas Eve. It is an enjoyable time for adults, but maybe not so much for the children. The kids are restless. They’ve already sent letters to Santa and now it’s time to find out if those Christmas wishes will come true.

On Christmas Eve parents everywhere encourage their kids to get to sleep early so Santa can come and leave their presents. While the children sleep, parents scurry back and forth, leaving presents under the Christmas tree. Christmas day is definitely an exciting and happy event for all.

Christmas Day: A Magical Time for Kids

Most kids enjoy Christmas Day more than Christmas Eve. On Christmas day, the children get to open all their gifts and presents. Some presents are from family members, relatives and friends. The gifts are nice but children always prefer the wonderful and exciting presents brought by Santa Claus. As soon as the children wake up, they rush to look over the presents under the Christmas tree.

Before the Opening Begins…

Children want to open their presents right away. It is hard to keep everything organized and orderly. You can set a tradition before the opening of the presents. Gather the family and say a short thanksgiving prayer to bless all who gave those gifts and presents. It will be hard to keep the children quiet and silent but with a little bit of patience and perseverance, you might be able to instill this as a family tradition.

By now everybody is excited and waiting to start opening the presents. You should ask people to check the presents first and find out if there are greeting cards attached to the present. The gift might be from a family member, relative or friend. You need to know who gave the gift so you can send thank you cards to them.

This may take some additional control because everyone wants to start opening the gifts. You will have to organize and oversee the opening of the gifts to ensure the greeting cards are catalogued properly and not strewn around. You should keep track of the ongoing activities even if you are just as excited and impatient in opening your gifts.

Time to Eat!

After all the presents are opened, it is time for breakfast or brunch. Aside from the Christmas Eve dinner, you can have another feast on Christmas day itself or you can simply enjoy a casserole that will make cooking an easy task.

The ambiance of Christmas Day is unique. All will be talking about their presents. Children are busy playing with their toys which is a good thing because parents are exhausted from their late night of being Santa.

Christmas is a great time for family bonding. Don't forget to take pictures of a happy and enjoyable time.

Christmas Crafts for the Kids

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 10 Dec 2014 21:00:00 +0000

Christmas Crafts for the Kids

During the holidays, children can become very difficult to control. They are full of energy. You can keep the children busy with making Christmas crafts. Children enjoy making all sorts of crafts to brighten the holiday spirit. Here are a few crafts that will interest the children.

Christmas balls and ornaments always give a thrill to kids.

Simple Tree Ornaments

You can decorate plain Christmas tree ornaments or get some small balls, such as used golf balls and ping pong balls for the children to decorate. They can paint faces and caricatures on the balls. You can then put strings on the balls and hang them on the branches. You can use photo software to make small pictures of each family member. The children can paste the small pictures on the balls.

If the pictures are slightly large, you can paste them on used tennis balls. Be sure the branches are sturdy and firm to hold the tennis balls. Tennis balls are heavier than ping pong balls. You can buy plain Styrofoam balls from the store and have the kids paint them with various colors using paint or markers. You can also glue on sequins, buttons, and other decorations.

Adding sequins and other shiny items to the ornaments will add interest, as the balls will reflect the Christmas lights and glisten in the night. The great thing about making Christmas balls is that the kids will see their handiwork hanging on the Christmas tree during the entire Christmas season. It will make them feel proud and happy that they contributed in preparing the Christmas tree.

Letters to Santa

Another simple craft is making a Santa letter. Children believe in Santa. They will enjoy writing letters to Santa and telling him to bring their gifts. Explain to the children the letter should not be a simple list of gifts. They should color the letter and paint pictures on the letter.

Reading a colorful letter with lots of pictures will make Santa very joyful. The children can use crayons and watercolor paint on thick construction paper. You can guide the children in making the pictures.

Christmas Calendar

One craft that can be used the whole year round is a calendar. You can have the children make a calendar, allowing one page for each month of the year. They can highlight specific dates for significant events, like birthdays and holidays. Aside from the regular dates, they can put numbers to serve as a countdown to the next Christmas.

Making crafts can be very interesting and exciting, and craft projects can be as beautiful as they are inexpensive. Joining the kids in making the crafts can result in a lot of bonding time with them. It can be a great way to create Christmas memories that will be cherished for years to come. Making crafts is a fabulous way to be imaginative and creative as you enjoy the holiday season.

Thanksgiving Day Games: Make the Day About Having Fun!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 26 Nov 2014 18:00:00 +0000

Thanksgiving Day Games: Make the Day About Having Fun!

Thanksgiving is the day families get together. They enjoy the closeness and companionship of the family. They share their life and experiences. Games are one way of sharing and enjoying the camaraderie of one another.

Get Everyone Involved

When you mix fun games in with the festive feelings and great food, everyone will enjoy the frivolity of the holiday. You can set up different types of outdoor and indoor games so each family member and guest can participate in the fun. The children as well as adults can have an enjoyable time playing and competing with one another.

Outdoor Fun

If you have a large yard you can set up different outdoor games. You can prepare a putting and pitching area for the golf enthusiasts. They can show off their golfing skills or practice for their next golf tournaments.

If there are sufficient family members and visitors, a baseball or basketball game could be an interesting and challenging game. Depending on the weather and other circumstances, games like badminton, kickball and even volleyball may be options.

Indoor Fun

If the weather is not conducive for outdoor games, you can play different types of indoor games. Ping Pong is a game that can be played by everybody and it can rouse a lot of friendly rivalry between family members. You could also consider card games or board games like monopoly, chess and checkers, and various word games. The dictionary and Pictionary games can be highly entertaining and educational.

In the dictionary game, a person picks an unusual word from the dictionary and everybody tries to guess the meaning. The person who guesses the exact meaning or comes closest to it is the winner. The Pictionary game involves drawing a picture and everybody tries to guess the word represented by the picture. This game can be used to bring out the drawing talents and skills of the family member.

If the house is large, you could hold a scavenger hunt indoors. Be sure all your breakable items are stored safely away. You can designate the search area for the scavenger hunt. If there are many toddlers in the family, you may want to organize a special scavenger hunt just for them.

Another great idea for younger guests is a turkey tag game. The turkey tag game involves having someone put feathers in his back pocket and having the other players try to grab the feathers from the person. The winner is the one with the most feathers.

You can play a turkey hunt game that is similar to the Easter egg hunt. Just take the time to draw different turkey shapes on construction paper and hide them around the yard. In fact, you can let the kids make the turkey shapes and be responsible for hiding them. The player who finds the most turkey drawings is declared the winner.

Video games can be fun for all ages. If you are concerned that only a few people can participate you can set a timer that gives each player a set amount of time to build points. This adds to the fun and helps ensure that everyone can play.

Pick your games well. Remember the games are intended to promote camaraderie and closeness among your guests. The team at Package From Santa will continue providing great holiday tips and ideas, so please visit often.

Thanksgiving Craft Activities for the Kids

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 17 Nov 2014 08:00:00 +0000

Thanksgiving Craft Activities for the Kids

Kids can show their creativity by making all kinds of crafts during the autumn season. Thanksgiving is an ideal holiday for craft projects. Kids can easily find many natural items such as pine cones, seeds and colorful leaves that can be used for their crafts. Plus, working on craft items is not only fun, it is also a great way to create awesome decorations for your home. Even simple craft projects can be used for Thanksgiving décor. The holiday is a good time for children to show off their talents and skills. At the same time, the kids get to learn and understand the true meaning of Thanksgiving.

Gathering Supplies

Children can gather the items for their craft projects from around the yard and neighborhood. You can guide them on deciding what craft projects will be undertaken. Then you can help them make a list of the different natural items they should get for their projects. Being organized makes it easier for the child to look for the items.

The children will know the types and number of natural items they should gather for the project. For instance, the number of seeds, cones and leaves will depend on the craft they will make. A specific number of orange, red and brown leaves may have to be gathered to make a colorful centerpiece arrangement.

Don’t Forget the Turkey

One interesting craft project could be a turkey. After all, the turkey is the main dish in a Thanksgiving dinner. There are many unique ways of combining cones, seeds and leaves to make a turkey. The turkey can be displayed in some prominent area of the house. Having a craft project on display during this major holiday will make your kids feel proud.

A Simple Wreath or Flower Arrangement

A standard decoration is the Thanksgiving wreath. Instead of buying one, the children can get together and make one from cones, twigs, branches and assorted leaves. They can glue the items together to form a wreath. You can hang the wreath on the front door. The wreath serves as a welcome greeting to the visitors and at the same time, shows the talents and skills of the children.

Another option is using a pumpkin as a vase and adding various leaves, flowers, grasses and pine cones to create a gorgeous flower arrangement. This can be used as an outdoor decoration or added to a tabletop indoors.

There are many craft projects that can be done for Thanksgiving Day. For instance, with coloring materials and paper, the children can make place cards and napkins with a Thanksgiving theme. Let your children mull it over. I am sure they can come up with some unique craft projects of their own.

Keep visiting this Package From Santa blog for more ideas about ways to make your Thanksgiving (and all holidays) more meaningful.

Simple Thanksgiving Decorations

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 09 Nov 2014 20:00:00 +0000

Simple Thanksgiving Decorations

Thanksgiving is coming up fast. But you still have time to decorate your house. The decorations don't have to be fancy. They can be very simple and still add a nice touch to the ambiance of Thanksgiving. Here are some ways you can decorate your home in a simple fashion and still bring out the elegance and spirit of Thanksgiving.

Color Matters

When you do your decorations, you should try to use the Thanksgiving colors of red, orange, brown, amber and green. For instance, your placemats, dining table centerpiece and tablecloth should use these colors. Good lighting can brighten up a room significantly. You can use colored candles to brighten up the rooms and maintain the ambiance. You can use vegetables, flowers or fruits as your centerpiece on the dining table. You should make sure the colors reflect the colors of Thanksgiving.

Pumpkins

Not only will lots of people serve pumpkin pies this Thanksgiving, many will use pumpkins as decorations. Although Halloween is over, you can still make your pumpkins more special by carving them. Why not carve a Pilgrim figure or a turkey into your Thanksgiving pumpkins? The pumpkins will look festive and will get lots of comments about your creativity. You can add a candle to the inside of the pumpkins and enjoy the wonderful fragrance.

Wreaths

Most homes have a fall and Thanksgiving wreath as part of the decorations. Thanksgiving wreaths are a standard Thanksgiving tradition.

You can buy a ready-made wreath form or make one easily from branches and leaves. You should choose branches that are supple and can be easily bent. Twist the branches around and entwine them into a circle. You can use several branches so the wreath will be sturdy and firm. You can add leaves to make it colorful and bright.

You can hang the wreath over your front door so it serves as a welcome greeting to your visitors. Your visitors will immediately sense the warmth and hospitality of your home.

Family Photos

As a final touch, you could place family pictures around the house. This enhances the overall value of family bonding that Thanksgiving helps to represent. It makes the families bond closer together as they view the pictures and reminisce on past occasions.

The team at Package From Santa is dedicated to helping you enjoy each and every holiday. Visit this blog often to keep up with tips and advice about kids, holidays, and lifestyle.

Reminder: Enjoy Halloween But Stay Safe!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 31 Oct 2014 05:00:00 +0000

Enjoy Halloween But Stay Safe: Last Minute Reminders About Halloween Safety Tips

Halloween is a holiday that everyone wants to celebrate. And why not - it's full of creepy fun! Even so, unless you follow some simple safety precautions the fun may be missed. That's why the team at Package From Santa is sharing these last minute reminders about Halloween Safety Tips. Please take the time to read through them.

1) Trips and falls are common on this holiday. After all, trick or treating is sometimes done after dark. To help prevent this problem it is important to use makeup instead of masks. Also, ensure that costumes fit appropriate so they do not result in tripping hazards. Carry a flashlight for trick or treating in places without enough lighting. To help prevent falls from happening at your house you can take care that cords from animated displays and lights are out of the way or covered with duct tape or a rug. Also, make sure the walk area up to your front door is free from clutter or items that may get in the way of trick or treaters. If you will be using a candle in a jack-o-lantern, be sure the pumpkin is placed in a safe place, where it will not cause a fire or burn hazard.

2) Trick or treat with an adult. Children under the age of 12 or 13 should only trick or treat under adult supervision. Kids should be taught to never go inside the home of a stranger and to cross the street at corners or crosswalks.

3) Make sure you are seen. Lighter colors are better choices for Halloween costumes. These colors are more easily seen after dark. Glow sticks can be carried or worn around the neck. These add a unique element to Halloween costumes and they make the trick or treater more visible. Glow in the dark or fluorescent tape can also be used to help make it easier to see your little Halloween creatures.

4) Candy inspection. Candy should always be inspected by an adult before kids have permission to eat it. Some kids have allergies to peanuts and other common ingredients in candy. And of course, there is always the chance that someone will give out unkind 'tricks' instead of treats.

5) Follow any rules or regulations. Some cities have specific timeframes for trick or treating. And of course, most parents have their own ideas about times that are appropriate for kids to be out.

Remember, pets may need special attention on Halloween too. Keep them inside to keep them safe and never let your pet eat chocolate candy. Be considerate and courteous as you trick or treat and keep these safety tips in mind.

Halloween Fun

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 19 Oct 2014 15:30:00 +0000

Halloween Fun: Decorate and Create Memories!

Halloween comes at a fabulous time of year. For most trick or treaters, the hot days and nights of summer have given way to cooler temperatures. Some people may be spending more time outdoors now than they did through the hotter days of summer. And with that, they may be getting creative in their Halloween decorating schemes.

Some outdoor Halloween decorations may be rather simple, such as using only pumpkins to adorn the base of a tree or to line the porch steps.

But other people go all out; for instance, some may even include this monster-sized spider decoration.

Indoor Halloween Decorations

Indoor Halloween decorations can be lots of fun add a spooky appeal to your home. While you can purchase ready-made decorations you can also create your own. For example, you can make cute ghosts that can be scattered around the interior of your home. All you need is a box of white tissues, cotton balls, yarn and a black marker.

Just place a cotton ball in the center of an unfolded tissue. Then wrap the tissue around the cotton ball and tie a piece of yarn to hold it in place. Use the marker to create eyes and other facial features. These little ghosts can be used to create garland or they can be added to plants or centerpieces. They’re quick and easy to make, which makes them a perfect craft project for kids.

Other simple to make Halloween decorations include using strips of orange paper to create 3-D pumpkins. Just cut the strips in even lengths, then position them on top of each other in a circular fashion. Use a stapler to attach them at the center. Then stack the pieces at the other end and staple those. The result is a terrific pumpkin that you can add eyes, a nose and a mouth to. Depending on the stock of paper you use and how close together you place the strips, your pumpkin could be used to hold candy or plastic Halloween treats.

Whether you prefer simple or you decide to go elaborate with your decorations, the most important thing is to have fun! Visit this Package From Santa blog regularly to keep up with great ideas for year round fun!

Turn Ordinary Flower Pots into Works of Art

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 17:30:00 +0000

Let Your Kids Turn Ordinary Flower Pots into Works of Art

We all have them – those nondescript terra cotta flower pots that are extremely functional, but not very attractive. Although function is the reason we purchase them in the first place, we don’t have to settle for the unappealing look they have. And, the good news is, this is a fabulous craft project for kids – you can get them started and then turn it over to them.

Don’t be afraid to get creative – or rather – to let your kids get creative.

This is a great time to pull out your craft box and let imaginations go wild.

Why not create your own masterpiece? All you need is some paint, paint brushes, and a steady hand.

Begin by sanding away any rough areas on the outside of the pot. Then use a damp cloth to wipe away any leftover dust or residue. Next, choose your base color. Acrylic or latex paint works great – in fact, you may want to purchase paint for outdoor use.

For complete coverage, plan for 2 to 3 coats of the base color. Now you are ready to get creative. You can add designs or paint scenes on the pot.

When the pots are fully painted they should be left to dry. This may take several hours so it is best to leave them overnight. Complete the project with 2 to 3 coats of a water-based polyurethane sealant.

For a different look you can glue decorative items onto the pot. For instance, you can use yarn, lace, buttons, or pieces of felt to create a pleasing design.

Even basic flower pots can become interesting pieces of art. Not only will you have fun with this project, in the end you and your kids may create something that will be cherished for years to come.

This Package From Santa blog provides tips and ideas about everything from home décor to craft projects, holiday advice, and much more.