ChildFun Updates

Cornucopia Place Cards - November 13, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PST

Cornucopia Place Cards

By Kathy Ross -- Reprinted with permission from her book Crafts to make in the Fall".

Ages 5 & up.

You need:

Bugle Snacks
Fruit-shaped Candy
Scissors
Construction Paper
White Glue
Black Marker

Instructions

Cut a 4" x 3-1/2" piece of construction paper for each person for whom you need to make a place card. Fold in half and write name on the top of each card.

Glue a Bugle snack and 3 or 4 candy fruits on each card.

Home Security - November 13, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PST

Make home look like you've never left.

Whether you're 100 or 1,000 miles away, your house should appear inhabited as a safety precaution. To do this, purchase low-cost timers that can be programmed to turn on and off radios, televisions and lights. Piles of newspapers next to the front door can be a clear indication that no one is home. Avoid this by holding subscriptions and mail with the postal service (downloadable forms are available online at www.usps.com) or opt to receive bills electronically through bill payment services to permanently reduce clutter.

Easy Pilgrim Hat - November 12, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PST

Easy Pilgrim Hat

These easy to make pilgrim hats are so cute. Use green paper and make it a leprechaun hat too!

Ages 5 & up.

You need:

For Pilgrim Hat: 2 Brown paper bags or a large sheet of kraft mailing paper
For Leprechaun Hat: Green Gift Wrap
Masking Tape
Old Belt (or paper or cloth strip)
Beach Bucket

Instructions

Measure around the rim of the bucket with the belt and ask an adult to punch another hole and cut off the extra piece of belt. Loop belt into a circle and buckle belt.

If using paper bags, open up the sides and cut off the bottoms. Tape them together. Place paper centered over the upside-down beach bucket. Press paper down with hands around bucket to shape. Place looped belt over top and push down to the bottom of the bucket near the rim securing the paper in place. Remove hat from bucket.

Sealed Inside & Out - November 12, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PST

Energy Tip of the Day

Make sure your water heater is insulated, windows and doors are sealed, and your refrigerator seals are healthy.

What's For Dinner Placemats - November 11, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PST

What's For Dinner Placemats

These placemats are a great tool for teaching about the food groups and eating healthy

Furnace/Heat System - November 11, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PST

Furnace/Heat System:

Fall is a good time to check your furnace for proper operation. Turn your system to the heat function, just as you would when the weather becomes cold, and be sure it is heating properly. If you discover there is a problem, you can call a professional to address it before the cold weather arrives. If winter is upon you, and your furnace/heat system should go out, you might have to wait a few very cold days for a service person to arrive, as it will be one of the busiest times of the year for them.

Another tip with any furnace/heat & air system is to regularly check and replace the filters. The filter is one of the most important elements in the proper operation of the furnace. Be sure you know what kind of filters you have as each furnace accepts a certain size filter, and there are 30-day, 60-day and 90-day filters. There are also filters that you do not replace, but you simply remove them, hose them off, and put them back into the furnace unit.

Autumn Craft - November 10, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PST

Autumn Craft

Materials Needed:
Pinecones
Hole punch
Red, yellow, orange, brown construction paper
Glue
Using a whole punch cut out circles in the various fall leaf colors. Have children glue the circles to the ends of the pinecone branches.

Prevent Injuries - November 10, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PST

Prevent injuries.

Injuries from falls and fireworks often occur around the holidays. Use step stools instead of furniture when hanging decorations. Leave the fireworks to the professionals.

Most residential fires occur during the winter months. Keep candles away from children, pets, walkways, trees, and curtains. Never leave fireplaces, stoves, or candles unattended. Don't use generators, grills, or other gasoline- or charcoal-burning devices inside your home or garage. Install a smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector in your home. Test them once a month, and replace batteries twice a year.

Thankful Book - November 9, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PST

Thankful Book

Materials : Magazine pictures of home and family
Scissors
colored construction paper
Paste
Markers

Procedure:

1. Discuss the idea of being thankful like saying thank you, being glad to have something or somebody.

2. Place the pictures of home and family objects, such as family members, pets, food, houses, and beds on a table. Let the children select their choice of pictures.

3. Help them cut around the pictures and paste it onto construction paper. Print on the page " I am thankful for...."

4. Assemble all the pages together for a Thankful book.:-) Ways to extend: Use any leftover pictures to make a mural. Listen to Hap Palmer's "Things I am thankful for".

Gaming Consoles - November 9, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PST

Energy Tip of the Day

Leaving a gaming console on when not in use is like leaving three lightbulbs on when you are not in the room.

Children's Art Easels Recalled by MacPherson's Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard

Jenny Wanderscheid — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PST

Children's Art Easels Recalled by MacPherson's Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Young Artist Easels

Units: About 10,000

Manufacturer: MacPherson's, of Emeryville, Calif.

Hazard: The chalkboard surface coating contains high levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: This recall involves a children's art easel which has a chalkboard surface on one side and a white board surface on the other side. The item number is AA13301 and the UPC number is 082435133010 which can be found on the original packaging.

Sold at: Art supply stores nationwide and online from July 2004 through June 2009 for about $75.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumer should immediately take these recalled easels away from children and contact the firm to receive a free replacement chalkboard panel.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact MacPherson's at (866) 319-5335 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, visit the firm's Web site at www.art-alternatives.com/recall or send email to recall@macphersonart.com

To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including a picture of the recalled products, please go to:

http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml10/10032.html

Dear Reader: You can help us make this website even better!

Please use this form to contact us for any reason at any time! We do try to answer all mail.

Webmasters and Authors:

We will gladly include a link back to your site or book in exchange for sharing your content. Just contact us!
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Adventure Playsets Recall to Repair Backyard Swing Sets Due to Fall Hazard

Jenny Wanderscheid — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PST

Adventure Playsets Recall to Repair Backyard Swing Sets Due to Fall Hazard

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Health Canada, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following products. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Adventure Playsets Wooden Play Sets

Units: About 275,000 in the United States and 6,800 in Canada

Distributor: Adventure Playsets, of Amarillo, Texas

Hazard: The plastic coated lumber on the horizontal ladder (monkey bar/swing beam) can weaken over time due to rotting of the whitewood (spruce, pine and fir species), resulting in a fall hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: Adventure Playsets has received more than 1,400 reports of rotting ladders involving 16 injuries that resulted in nine emergency room visits. The injuries include two arm fractures, lacerations, scrapes, and bruises to children younger than 8 years old. Most of the reported injuries occurred when the swing came out of the monkey bar/ swing beam that had rotted.

Description: This recall involves wooden play sets with swings, slides and ladders. Each set has an overhead monkey bar ladder that acts as both the monkey bar and swing beam, and an end ladder coated with cranberry or green plastic. The instruction manual has the name "Adventure Playsets" and one of the following model numbers printed on the cover.

Durango 1-AP016 and 1- AP018

Yukon 1-AP052

Tacoma 1- AP017 and 1-AP051

El Dorado 1-AP016

Bellevue 1-AP048, and 1-AP012

Dakota 1- AP046

Sherwood 1-AP049

Sedona 1- AP002

Ventura 1-AP008

Madison 1- AP006 and 1-AP015

Belmont 1-AP003

Note: The Bellevue,Tacoma and Durango swing sets were previously recalled due to detaching frames and a fall hazard.

Sold at: Walmart, Toys R Us, Academy Sports, Menards, and Mill stores nationwide, and online at Walmart.com, ToyRUs.com, Willygoat.com and through the DMSI catalog from January 2004 through December 2007 for between $300 and $600.

Manufactured in: United States

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the swing sets and contact Adventure Playsets to receive a replacement kit.

Consumer Contact: For more information, contact Adventure Playsets toll-free at (877) 840-9068 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's Web site at www.adventureplaysets.com. Consumers can also email the firm at custservice@adventureplaysets.com

Note: Health Canada's press release can be seen at: http://cpsr-rspc.hc-sc.gc.ca/PR-RP/recall-retrait-eng.jsp?re_id=878

Note: All recalled swing sets have a horizontal ladder that acts as both a monkey bar and swing beam, and an end latter coated with cranberry or green plastic. The replacement kit includes the horizontal ladder and the vertical end truss support pieces.

To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the recalled products, please go to:

http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml10/10029.html

Dear Reader: You can help us make this website even better!

Please use this form to contact us for any reason at any time! We do try to answer all mail.

Webmasters and Authors:

Wallpaper Turkeys - November 6, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PST

Wallpaper Turkeys

Have the children cut about a 5" circle from brown construction paper. We provide the children with a precut profile of a turkey head and neck. (You could also use a rectangle for the neck and a small circle for the head.) They glue the base of it to the center of the circle at about a 45 degree angle. This is glued to a large sheet of drawing paper. They then draw the waddle, beak, eyes and feet. The children are provided with a wide variety of feathers cut from old wallpaper. (The stores will often give you outdated wallpaper books.) We then encourage the children add details to their picture like grass, bugs to eat or whatever they like.

Energy Costs - November 6, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PST

Give yourself a break on energy costs.

Before leaving on a trip, turn off your water and gas and unplug common appliances such as microwaves and televisions. This will both reduce unnecessary usage and prevent damage caused by energy surges. Consider setting your thermostat 10 degrees lower than the outside temperature or simply turn it off. If you'll be away for an extended period of time, turn off your pilot light for maximum savings. From putting lights on timers to setting up automatic bill pay, following these tips can minimize pretravel stress and help make your return home sweet.

Turkey Popcorn Picture - November 5, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PST

Turkey Popcorn Picture

Materials: Picture of a turkey with backside feathers visible, tag board to glue picture on ahead of time, unpopped popcorn, rubbing alcohol, food coloring, crayons or markers.

Color the popcorn by mixing it with rubbing alcohol and food color....let dry in an open container. Have the kids color the turkey then glue the colored popcorn on to make his feathers.

Clean Gutters - November 5, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PST

Clean Those Gutters!

Most gutter systems should be cleaned 3-4 times a year, with the change of the seasons. The reason is each season trees go through various cycles that can clog up your gutters. In early fall, you should remove leaves that have fallen early to keep your gutters flowing freely.

Improper gutter maintenance will lead to clogged or damaged gutters and can cause thousands of dollars in damage to your home's foundation, exterior trim and basements.

Indian Corn Napkin Holders - November 4, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PST

Indian Corn Napkin Holders

Cut cardboard tubes (from paper towels) into 1 inch wide sections. Cut brown felt into 1 inch wide strips. Glue felt pieces on inside and outside of the 1 inch cardboard pieces. Let the glue dry. Dab the back of each kernel of Indian corn with glue. Place the corn kernels on the ring, lining them in rows. Mix up the colors for a more interesting design.

Clean Pantry - November 4, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PST
Question: What does an empty box, a step ladder, a telephone book, a cloth, a car and one hour have in common?

Answer: They're what you'll need to clean the pantry or if you don't have one, your food cupboards.

Remove all items you haven't used in the past year...or won't use in the next few months. Make sure everything is packed properly for storage. Then you can put unused/unwanted food in the box, contact your local non-profit food pantry, and put the box in your care (for now).

Election Day Coloring Pages

Jenny Wanderscheid — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 09:27:00 PST

While you wait for election results,
check our our Election Day Coloring Pages.
(click here to see all 24 pages.)

Thankful Wreath - November 3, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PST

Thankful Wreath

Cut out an orange or yellow circle to fit a paper plate, and have child glue to center. Then have them crumple up and glue colored tissue paper (fall colors) to the outside of the wreath. Cut out a bow shape and either glue a small picture of the child in the center of the bow, or have the child write his/her name on the bow. Glue the bow to the outside of the plate. Discuss thankfulness, and ask the child what they are thankful for. Then write that in the center of the plate i.e. "I am thankful for my parents.". Then attach a ribbon or string on the back to hang the wreath.

Manage Stress - November 3, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PST

Manage stress
The holidays don’t need to take a toll on your health. Keep a check on over-commitment and over-spending. Balance work, home, and play. Get support from family and friends. Practice time management. Keep a relaxed and positive outlook.

Disney's Tinkerbell and the Lost Treasure Printables

Jenny Wanderscheid — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 14:03:00 PST

Check out these fun printables from Tinkerbell and the Lost Treasure!
Click each small sheet to open up a new window you can print out.
Tinker Bell and the Lost Treasure is now available on Blu-ray Combo Pack and DVD
Get your copy now!

If you are viewing this on our RSS Feed,
click here to go to our site to view the printables.

Special thanks to Click Communications for providing these printables!

Disney's UP Activity Printables

Jenny Wanderscheid — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 14:03:00 PST

Check out these fun printables from Disney's Movie UP!
Click each small sheet to open up a new window you can print out.
UP will be available on DVD and Blu-ray Combo Pack November 10th.
Pre-order your copy now!

If you are viewing this on our RSS Feed,
click here to go to our site to view the printables.

Special thanks to Click Communications for providing these printables.

Enter to Win the New Klutz Book!

Jenny Wanderscheid — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PST

Two ChildFun visitors will win TWO copies of this new book.

To win, just fill out the form below! We will randomly pick two winners on December 1st, 2009! If you just can't wait, you can purchase the book by clicking here.

New from the Klutz bookshelf!

Introducing Fancy Friendship Bracelets, the original Friendship Bracelet’s new best friend! Klutz started with super-simple instructions for a flock of all-new bracelet designs. We added five different colors of cord and more than 200 sparkling beads. Then we threw in some stylish charms for good measure. The result is even better than we hoped.

Check out these scenes from the book!

For ages 8 and up!

Become a Klutz Fanatic!

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Handprint Turkey Card - November 2, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PST

Handprint Turkey Card

MATERIALS:
1 sheet of white construction paper per child, labeled
brown, red, orange, green, yellow, purple paint
red & black markers

DIRECTIONS: Paint the palm and thumb of the child's hand brown. Then paint each of the fingers a different color and stamp onto the white construction paper. Place the construction paper lengthwise. When dry, use markers to draw eyes, feet, and wattle.

Task Lighting - November 2, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PST

Energy Tip of the Day:

Use task (focal) lighting instead of lighting whole areas or rooms.

Veteran's Day Crafts and Activities

Jenny Wanderscheid — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Veteran's Day Crafts and Activities

Click here for Veteran's Day Coloring Pages!

And more Veteran's Day Coloring Pages

RED, WHITE AND BLUE:

Circle time and concepts to teach: Independence Day is July 4th, the Liberty Bell, the flag, the Statue of Liberty. It commemorates the United States birth as a nation. The Declaration of Independence.

Statue of Liberty Crafts and Activities

Torches

Use old newspapers and roll them in a large cone shape. Let children paint the cones. When dry, stuff with red and yellow tissue paper. to be the "flame" of the torch/ * Have the children make crowns, and then they can be the statue of Liberty. I often let them parade.

Star Crowns

Pre cut stars out of red, white and blue construction paper. Give each child a long white band (about 1 1/2 to 2 inches wide) of construction paper long enough to fit around a child's head. Let each child glue (I colored my white glue with some red paint) as many paper stars on the band as they want. I also put out some red, white and blue stickers for the to put on. When dry, fit to each child's head and staple. The kids just love the star spangled crown.

Statue of Liberty Torches

Use old newspapers and roll them in a large cone shape. Let the children paint the cones. When dry, stuff with red and yellow tissue paper to be the flame of the torch.

Statue of Liberty Crowns

Cut crowns from stiff paper to fit around the child's head. Let them decorate them and then with their torches do a parade.

Flag and Windsock Crafts and Activities

Flags

Start with white construction paper. Children glue on red strips, to make red and white stripes. Then glue a blue square in the top left corner. For the stars you can use white tissue paper, crumpled up, or star stickers.

Wind Socks

Use red, white or blue construction paper and roll it length wise. Glue, tape or staple together. Add string as a handle to one end. Add red, white and blue streamers to the other end.

Stars and Stripes collage

Give each child blue construction paper(9x12) with strips of red and white paper cut 1x9. Have them glue the strips on and add silver star stickers. (I usually cut my stars out so they are bigger!)

Fourth of July Windsocks
Assemble this project the same way as the Fourth of July collage however staple together making a cylindar and add streamers on the bottom and a piece of yarn on top to hang!

Flags

Start with white construction paper. Children glue on red strips to make red and white stripes. Then glue a blue square in the top left corner. For the stars you can use crumpled up white tissue paper or star stickers.

Wind Socks

Use red, white or blue construction paper and roll it lengthwise. Glue, tape or staple together. Add string as a handle on one end. Add red, white and blue streamer to the other end.

Stained glass stars materials: white paper, black felt pens, old crayons (peeled), warming tray, oven mitt, scissors. Process: use the black felt pen to outline a large star on the white paper. The blank space inside the lines will be "colored in" with melted crayon.

Place the paper with the star on the warming tray. Put the oven mitt on the non-drawing hand, hold the paper down with this hand. Using the peeled crayons, color in the star. Working slowly will allow the crayon to melt and soak into the paper. Remove the paper from the warming tray. Hold the paper up to the light or a window and see the stained glass effect. The star can be cut out and displayed in a window to resemble a stained glass window.

(note: rub the back of the crayon design with a cotton ball soaked in baby oil for a more transparent design).

Red, White and Blue Crafts and Activities

Red, White And Blue

Circle time and concepts to teach: Independence Day is July 4th, the Liberty Bell, the flag, the Statue of Liberty. It commemorates the United States birth as a nation. The Declaration of Independence.

Art Center

Use only red white and blue items in your art center.

Playdoh Fun

Set out red, white and blue playdoh and let the children's imaginations run wild.

Sensory Table

Place red, white or blue colored water in the sensory table with pitchers, measuring cups and other containers to allow the children to experience measurement.

Red, White, And Blue Puffy Paint Pictures

Materials:

Flour, Salt, Water, Red and blue food coloring, Empty mustard squeeze bottles, Cardboard

Directions:

1. Mix equal parts of flour, salt, and water to make the puffy paint.

2. Divide mixture into three different bowls and color one bowl of mixture blue, one bowl red, and leave the last one white.

3. Fill the mustard bottles with the mixture (one color per squeeze bottle).

4. Let the children squeeze the different colors onto the cardboard.

5. Allow the children's artwork to dry. When it is dry, the design will be raised and will sparkle!

Red, White, And Blue Salt Jars

Materials:

Empty baby food jars with lids, 9 cups rock salt, Red and blue food coloring, (PI) cup rubbing alcohol

Directions:

AN ADULT MUST DO THIS PART

1. To make the colored rock salt: Measure 3 cups of rock salt to be blue, 3 cups to be white, and 3 cups to be red, and place each in three separate bowls.

2. Combine (pi) cup of rubbing alcohol with (PI) a bottle or more of red food coloring (you want the colors to be bright). Do the same for the blue food coloring.

3. Mix the red alcohol mixture into one of the bowls of rock salt. Mix well and let sit for about 1 minute. Drain the excess alcohol mixture off of the rock salt. (WARNING: This will smell pretty yucky!) Spread the colored rock salt on cookie sheets and set outside in the sun to dry (this will take only an hour or so). Repeat the same procedure for the blue food coloring.

4. Do nothing with the remaining rock salt because you want it to stay white.

ACTIVITY FOR THE CHILDREN

1. Once the different colors of salt are dry, place them on a table with spoons and baby food jars.

2. Guide the children to spoon the colored rock salt into their jars.

3. Seal the children's creation with the lid.

Dear Reader: You can help us make this theme even better!

All of our theme ideas have come from our imagination and from reader submissions. Please use this form to contact us if you have crafts, activities, games, recipes, songs or poems that you would like us to add to this theme.

Webmasters and Authors:

We will gladly include a link back to your site or book in exchange for sharing your content. Just contact us!
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Pumpkin Painting - October 30, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Pumpkin Painting

After Halloween, use your carved jack-o-lantern for print making. Cut the pumpkin into chunks and let children design pulp by using nails. Press on ink pads then on construction paper.

Halloween Safety - October 30, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

There are many ways to keep your child safe at Halloween, when they are more prone to accidents and injuries. The excitement of children and adults at this time of year sometimes makes them forget to be careful. Simple common sense can do a lot to stop any tragedies from happening.

Scrap Paper Jack-O-Lantern - October 29, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Scrap Paper Jack-O-Lantern
Draw a circle on black construction paper. Paint circle with glue. Tear scraps of orange paper into small pieces. Arrange scraps on glue. Add torn scraps of yellow paper for eyes, nose and mouth.

Prevent Winter Problems, Clean Gutters & Downspout - October 29, 2009 - Daily Family ...

Jenny Wanderscheid — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Prevent Winter Problems, Clean Gutters & Downspout

Fall is a great time to clean gutters to be sure they provide proper drainage in the winter. Wait until most of the autumn leaves have fallen and follow these cleaning guidelines:

-- Use a ladder that reaches about a foot above the gutter.

-- Take out all debris from gutters. You'll probably need gloves and a container.

-- Sweep the gutter clean with a stiff brush.

-- Use a forceful spray from a garden hose to flush away any remaining debris and make sure the gutter isn't blocked.

-- Check for leaks using the garden hose.

Make sure you don't damage the gutter by resting the ladder against it. Also, direct the downspout away from the house so water doesn't collect against the foundation.

Today's tip provided by our sister site FamilyCorner.com

Mr Pumpkin Head - October 28, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Mr. Pumpkin Head

Get a real pumpkin and supply washable markers, and props such as glasses, paper mustache, hats, scarves, and wigs. Let each child have turn to decorate and dress up pumpkin. When next child's turn - just wash the markers off!

Planting Trees - October 28, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Planting Trees

Fall is an optimum time to plant trees, even if you live in a cooler climate. Here are a few things you should know about how trees grow, to help you plan your landscape:

* A tree loses many of its roots in the transplanting process.

* In spring, a tree will use its energy for leaves. In fall, it will concentrate on root growth.

* You can plant a tree as long as the ground temperature is above 40 degrees. Below this temperature, trees will not grow roots.

* Plan to give a tree at least a month of root growing weather.

Even if it is cold outside, there may still be time to put a tree in the ground and give it time to flourish, come spring.

Today's tip provided by our sister site FamilyCorner.com

Halloween Safety Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

HALLOWEEN is meant to be a special "TREAT" for children. However, during this annual event there are unnecessary hazards which can be avoided if a few common sense precautions are taken.

Children, to prevent traffic accidents, fire injuries, poisoned candy or food, and falls, cuts and bruises, you should do the following:

BEFORE TRICK-OR-TREATING

Wear a costume that makes it easy for you to walk, see and be seen.

Be sure your costume is short enough to avoid tripping.

Use reflective tape on your costume so people driving cars can see you.

Carry a flashlight.

Try to use makeup rather than a mask.

If you wear a mask, take it off before crossing a street.

Plan your trick-or-treat route ahead of time, picking streets that are well lighted.

Tell your family on which streets you will be trick-or-treating.

Have a parent, older brother or sister go with you.

If someone older cannot go with you, trick-or-treat with a group of children.

If possible, trick-or-treat while it is still light outside.

Cross only at corners. Never cross the street between parked cars or in the middle of the block.

Walk on well-lit streets and stay on the sidewalk.

If there is no sidewalk, stay as far left of the roadway as possible and walk facing traffic.

Wait until you get home to sort, check, and eat your treats.

AFTER TRICK-OR-TREATING

Throw away any candy or food that is not wrapped and sealed by a candy or food company.

Notify your parents and the police if there are any suspicious treats - treats meant to harm you.

Handprint Ghosts

Jenny Wanderscheid — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Halloween Craft Projects

Handprint Ghosts

Have the children paint their hands white and press onto black construction paper. When they dry have the children turn them upside down and add faces.

(click the images to open a larger photo.)

More Halloween Fun and Activities!

Halloween Coloring Pages | More Halloween Coloring Pages
Halloween Costume Coloring Pages | Halloween Monster Coloring Pages
Frankenstein Coloring Pages | Pumpkin Coloring Pages | Witch Coloring Pages
Ghost Coloring Pages | Mummy Coloring Pages | Werewolf Coloring Pages
Haunted House Coloring Pages | Trick or Treating Coloring Pages
Jack-o-lantern Coloring Pages | Vampire Bats and Dracula Coloring Pages

Dear Reader: You can help us make this theme even better!

All of our theme ideas have come from our imagination and from reader submissions. Please use this form to contact us if you have crafts, activities, games, recipes, songs or poems that you would like us to add to this theme.

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Paper Bag Pumpkins

Jenny Wanderscheid — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Halloween Craft Projects
Paper Bag Pumpkins

Materials:

Lunch size paper bags, Orange paint, Green paint,
Newspaper, Construction Paper, String

Directions:

Have the children crumple up newspaper
and stuff their paper bagsso they are full.
Twist the unstuffed part of the bag and
tie at the bottom to make a stem.
Let the children paint their pumpkins.
When they are dry, the children can draw faces on them.

(click the images to open a larger photo.)

This craft was originally published on ChildFun.com,
and was updated with these photos by our friend,
Amanda Formaro of Crafts By Amanda!
Make sure to visit her site for more Halloween Fun!

More Halloween Fun and Activities!

Halloween Coloring Pages | More Halloween Coloring Pages
Halloween Costume Coloring Pages | Halloween Monster Coloring Pages
Frankenstein Coloring Pages | Pumpkin Coloring Pages | Witch Coloring Pages
Ghost Coloring Pages | Mummy Coloring Pages | Werewolf Coloring Pages
Haunted House Coloring Pages | Trick or Treating Coloring Pages
Jack-o-lantern Coloring Pages | Vampire Bats and Dracula Coloring Pages

Dear Reader: You can help us make this theme even better!

All of our theme ideas have come from our imagination and from reader submissions. Please use this form to contact us if you have crafts, activities, games, recipes, songs or poems that you would like us to add to this theme.

Webmasters and Authors:

We will gladly include a link back to your site or book in exchange for sharing your content. Just contact us!
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Paper Plate Bat - October 27, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Paper Plate Bat

Using a small paper plate, paint black with black finger paint, let dry. Cut triangle shapes from black construction paper, 3 for each wing and lay them out so you can glue the two top corners to another triangle. Fasten the wings to the back of the paper plate and draw a face with white correction fluid or chalk. Punch a hole in the top to hang.

Dining-Out Secrets - October 27, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Dining-Out Secrets

* Never order fish on Monday -- odds are, it was fresh on Saturday.

* Best time to make a dinner reservation at a popular restaurant is about six hours before you want to eat. That is when cancellations start coming in.

* Avoid dining out on holidays. Restaurants are so overbooked that they often charge double for the same meals they serve every day.

* Better: Have your special meal the day before or after the holiday.

* Become a regular. The best restaurant is the one at which you are known.

* Go out for lunch. Restaurants that are always full for dinner are often desperate for midday business and may charge half as much then for the same menu items.

* Avoid new restaurants for at least three months -- while they work out the kinks.

* Be nice. It's the surest way to get good service.

Today's tip provided by our sister site FamilyCorner.com

Halloween Bags - October 26, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Halloween Bags
Materials:
*paper lunch bags (white ones look good)
*tissue paper goblins, ghosts, pumpkins, witches hats, cats
*Halloween stickers
*orange & black crepe paper
*orange & black crayons/felt pens
*glue & glue sticks

Procedure: Children decorate their bags :)

Halloween & Your Dog - October 26, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Halloween & Your Dog

Halloween is "fright night" for humans, not dogs. Screaming, running, spooky children in masks make many dogs uncomfortable, nervous and frightened.

Halloween costumes are fun and are meant to disguise our normal appearance. Dogs do not understand this change in appearance and may become frightened. Costumes that change the way a person walks, stands, or their general appearance may cause a dog to react different then usual even with those they know.

Keep in mind that children on Halloween night are excited and doing their best to be scary. This is not a fair or safe situation to put even the best of dogs in. Even the normally terrific tolerant family dog can find this night hard to handle.

Along with costumes being frightening to a dog there are some that may become interesting too. Swords, tails and dangling things may be fun for an excited dog to chase and toddlers certainly won't appreciate that. Every child and every costume is a new opportunity for different reactions from the same dog. I recommend setting up your dog with their own private Halloween bash in a safe quiet spot with a yummy treat of their own. Here are some tips to help make this safe haven most comfortable.

1. Stuff a food dispensing toy with yummy mush and freeze it until it is "Halloween" time.

2. Use a fan or radio for white noise. Something consistent is best.

3. Be sure the blinds are down or the dog is not watching kids coming and going by the window. This will only frustrate him and allow him to practice barking and carrying on at the window.

Chocolate is toxic to dogs. Put candy in a safe spot.

Many dogs are stolen, poisoned or injured by Halloween pranks. Keep your dog safe and sound inside your home.

Be safe and aware and have fun!

Article by www.familypaws.com

Today's tip provided by our sister site FamilyCorner.com

Win a $100 Toys R Us Gift Card

Jenny Wanderscheid — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 16:00:00 PDT
As of 10/25/2009 we have 444 fans on our Facebook page.
If we can get 5,000 fans by December 1,
one lucky winner will receive a $100 Toys R Us Gift Card!
Tell your friends to become a fan today!

Winner will be drawn at random from the fans on the site
on December 1, 2009 if we get up to 5,000 fans!

The ChildFun Family Website on Facebook

More Frugal Halloween Costumes - Halloween Crafts and Activities

Jenny Wanderscheid — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Frugal Halloween Costumes - Ideas With Overalls

Overalls:

Paul Bunyan/lumberjack-add a flannel shirt, boots, and a plastic fireman's axe (from a dress-up set). Blue oxes are pretty hard to find, but you could use a blue stuffed animal. Add a black cap for that Canadian lumberjack look.

Farmer -overalls, galoshes, straw hat, flannel shirt. Could carry a stuffed farm animal, plastic pitchfork or toy tractor.

Sports Uniforms:

Athlete-dress up your kids in their sports uniforms and let them go as a famous baseball/football/basketball/hockey player. They could also borrow an older sibling's sports uniform.

Pajamas- Whenever my kids get new pajamas, we make sure to get the superhero kind that can double as Halloween costumes. Easy, and you don't have to change them for bedtime, after they have passed out from exhaustion and have come down from their sugar high!

Ideas Using Black Clothing
Costumes from Sweatsuits
More Kid Costume Ideas from Their Closets
Kid Costumes from Adult Clothing
Costumes from Odds N' Ends Around the House
More Costume Ideas

About the Author

Kim Tilley, a tightwad at heart, is the mother of three active boys and the founding editor of Frugal-Moms.com. Frugal by force and later by choice, Kim cut her income by 60% to stay at home with her children and discovered that anyone can live better for less. Her work has appeared in print publications such as The Tightwad Gazette. In her free time, she entertains herself by chasing kids and finding ways to create something from nothing!

More Halloween Fun and Activities!

Halloween Coloring Pages | More Halloween Coloring Pages
Halloween Costume Coloring Pages | Halloween Monster Coloring Pages
Frankenstein Coloring Pages | Pumpkin Coloring Pages | Witch Coloring Pages
Ghost Coloring Pages | Mummy Coloring Pages | Werewolf Coloring Pages
Haunted House Coloring Pages | Trick or Treating Coloring Pages
Jack-o-lantern Coloring Pages | Vampire Bats and Dracula Coloring Pages

Dear Reader: You can help us make this theme even better!

All of our theme ideas have come from our imagination and from reader submissions. Please use this form to contact us if you have crafts, activities, games, recipes, songs or poems that you would like us to add to this theme.

Webmasters and Authors:

We will gladly include a link back to your site or book in exchange for sharing your content. Just contact us!
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Halloween Party Snacks - Halloween Crafts and Activities

Jenny Wanderscheid — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Halloween Party Snacks

by Danielle Schultz of Family Travel Reviews

Slime Gelatin

What You Will Need
Lime Gelatin, Gummy Worm Candy, LargeGlass Baking Dishes

Directions

Follow the directions on the package of lime gelatin. Prepare in a large clear glass baking dish or bowl. Once the gelatin has begun to set (about 1.5 hours) place the gummy worms into the gelatin.

Ghost Sandwiches

What You Will Need

Bread, Peanut Butter or Whipped Marshmallow Creme, Ghost (or gingerbread boy if you can't find a ghost) Cookie Cutter, Raisins

Directions

Make the sandwiches using your choice of peanut butter or marshmallow creme (or both). Use the cookie cutter on the finished sandwiches to create spooky shaped sandwiches.

Gelatin Jiggler Eyeballs

What You Will Need

Ice Cube Trays, White Grape Gelatin,Blueberries or Dark Grapes

Directions

Follow the directions to make the gelatin (use the jiggler recipe). Pour 3/4 full into the ice cube trays. Once they have begun to set, add the blueberries or grapes. Follow the directions explaining how to use warm water to remove the jigglers from the tray. Place in a white or clear serving bowl or arrange on a platter.

Cheese Boogers

What You Will Need

Cheez Whiz, Green Food Coloring,Pretzel Sticks, Wax Paper

Directions

Follow the directions to melt the Cheez Whiz. Dip a pretzel half way into the cheese. Wait fifteen to twenty seconds then repeat. Place on wax paper to harden. When the cheese has re-hardened, remove from wax paper and place on a serving tray.

Popcorn Hands

What You Will Need

Clear Plastic Food Service Gloves,Popcorn (popped), Candy Corn, Twist Ties or Ribbon

Directions

Place a candy corn in the finger of each glove, then fill with popcorn. Use the twist ties or ribbon to seal each bag. Place popcorn hands into a large serving bowl.

Spooky Suckers

What You Will Need

Suckers (Tootsie Roll Pops work exceptionally well), White Facial Tissue, Orange or Black Ribbon or Yarn

Directions

Place the top of the sucker in the very center of the tissue, then wrap the tissue around the sucker. Tie the ribbon or yarn under the sucker. Use a felt tip marker if you like to draw features on the ghost faces.

Pigeon Poop

What You Will Need

5 Cups Peanut Butter Crunch Cereal, 3Cups Rice Krispies, 2 Cups Pretzels, 2 lbs. of White Chocolate, 2 1/2 Cups Mini Marshmallows

Directions

While you melt the white chocolate in a double boiler, mix all other ingredients in a large bowl. Pour melted white chocolate over mixture, then spread onto wax paper until cool. Once cool, break into chunks and serve.

Halloween Rice Cereal Treats

What You Will Need

Marshmallows, Rice Cereal, Halloween Candy, Orange Food Coloring

Directions

Follow the directions on the rice cereal to make rice cereal treats. Add in candy pumpkins, candy corn, chocolate chips and/or orange food coloring for extra fun.

Don't forget about the traditional favorites: candy or caramel apples and popcorn balls!

More Halloween Fun and Activities!

Halloween Coloring Pages | More Halloween Coloring Pages
Halloween Costume Coloring Pages | Halloween Monster Coloring Pages
Frankenstein Coloring Pages | Pumpkin Coloring Pages | Witch Coloring Pages
Ghost Coloring Pages | Mummy Coloring Pages | Werewolf Coloring Pages
Haunted House Coloring Pages | Trick or Treating Coloring Pages
Jack-o-lantern Coloring Pages | Vampire Bats and Dracula Coloring Pages

Dear Reader: You can help us make this theme even better!

All of our theme ideas have come from our imagination and from reader submissions. Please use this form to contact us if you have crafts, activities, games, recipes, songs or poems that you would like us to add to this theme.

Webmasters and Authors:

We will gladly include a link back to your site or book in exchange for sharing your content. Just contact us!
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Cardboard Box Costumes - Halloween Crafts and Activities

Jenny Wanderscheid — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Cardboard Box Costumes

Some adorable costumes have come to light using little more than a cardboard box, some paint, and lots of imagination. Here are several ideas to choose from. Happy Halloween!

All of the costumes listed here use a cardboard box.

Robot

1 large box
1 small box
gray hooded sweatsuit
silver spray paint
gray, white, or black gloves
silver face paint
markers
4 plastic milk jug lids

Seal one end of box with silver duct tape. Leave other end open. Do this with both boxes. Spray paint silver, let dry. When dry, cut circle out of small box so when placed on child's head, the hole will be there for his/her face. Cut open ends off or fold inside box. Follow above instructions for large box, then cut holes for arms. Glue lids on box in front, along bottom as control knobs. use markers to draw horizontal lines across the front of the box for effect. Paint face silver.

Race Car

large box
red spray paint
yarn
black spray paint
5 paper plates
black marker
4 yellow plastic milk jug lids (other colors will do as well)
1 red plastic milk jug lid for horn
red construction paper
white construction paper
craft glue

Fold sides of box in on both ends. Attach yarn to go from front of box to back of box and rest over child's shoulders. To attach, poke holes with a pen or screwdriver into the box, then run yarn through and tie off. Spray paint box red. Let dry. Spray paint the paper plates black. Let dry. Glue 4 of the 5 paper plates onto the box as wheels. Glue the plastic milk jug lids on to the plates as hub caps. Take last plate and cut out a steering wheel. Glue red plastic milk jug lid onto last plate as the horn. Glue plate to box. Cut tail lights from red construction paper, glue on. Cut headlights from white construction paper, glue on. Draw a grill on front with black marker.

Refrigerator

large box
marker
small trinket type toys
post it notes
empty box of cereal
white spray paint

Fold top of box closed, leave bottom open. Paint box white and allow to dry. Cut hole out of top for head and holes for arms out the sides. Use marker to draw a handle on fridge. Use different small trinket toys as magnets, glue on. Stick a couple of post it notes on with messages such as "Don't forget to walk the dog!" and "Pick up dry cleaning". Added effect, glue a box of cereal on the shoulder of the costume.

Christmas/Birthday Present

large box
wrapping paper
large bow
shiny ribbon

Tape up one end of box, fold in sides of other end. Wrap box up in wrapping paper. Tape or glue ribbon around the box and adorn with a bow!

Jack In The Box

large box
plastic headband
blue felt
red felt
green felt
orange felt
4 white pompoms
craft glue
red spray paint
gold craft paint
sponge
toilet paper roll
2 paper towel rolls

Tape up one end of box, fold in sides of other end. Spray paint the box and the paper towel and toilet paper rolls with red spray paint. Let dry. Cut out tall triangles from the different colored felts. Roll into cones and glue closed. Glue pompoms on top of cones. Glue cones to headband. Hopefully, the cones will be tall enough to flop over like a jester's hat. Cut appropriate holes for head and arms. Glue paper towel and toilet paper rolls together to form the crank, glue to the side of the box. Decorate the box with gold craft paint by sponging paint on in various places or along the border.

Dice

large box
white spray paint
black craft paint or marker
OR
black construction paper

Tape up one end of box, fold in sides of other end. Spray paint the box white. Let dry. Then, either cut big circles from black construction paper, or paint the black spots on your "dice".

Television

large box
small box (hair color size)
black spray paint
red craft paint
2 dowels from clothes hangers
aluminum foil
magazine picture of Barney (or football game, or whatever fits age)
2 plastic milk jug lids

Tape up one end of box, fold in sides of other end. Cut holes for arms and head. Completely close the small box and spray paint completely black. When dry, use red paint to paint cable box channel number on small box. Glue small box to top of large box where shoulder will be. Wrap dowels in aluminum foil, poke holes in top of "TV" and insert dowels for antennas. Use a black marker to draw a picture tube on front. Glue magazine picture onto TV screen. Glue milk jug lids on as knobs.

X-ray Machine

large box
white spray paint
paper skeleton decoration, torso only
craft glue
2 plastic milk jug lids

Tape up one end of box, fold in sides of other end. Spray paint box white, let dry. Cut holes for arms and head. Paint a black rectangle on the front, and the words: "Caution: X-RAY IN USE". Use the torso of a life-size paper skeleton decoration as the image on the black rectangle (the screen). Glue the milk jug lids on the front as control knobs.

Popcorn Box

large box
white spray paint
red paint
black paint
paint brush
yellow posterboard
craft glue
red posterboard

Tape up one end of box, fold in sides of other end. Spray paint box white, let dry. Cut holes for arms and head. When dry, paint red stripes vertically on box. Using paint brush, paint the word POPCORN in black across the front of the box. Cut large popcorn pieces out of yellow poster board. Glue along top edge of box. Cut a couple of strips of red posterboard, enough to go around the top edge of the box, covering the very bottoms of the popcorn. This will give the appearance of the popcorn being inside the box rather than floating on the outside.

Lego

large box
spray paint in a bright primary color
6 empty margarine or butter tubs
shoe box
small plastic cups
face paint

Tape up one end of box, fold in sides of other end. Spray paint box and let dry. Cut holes for arms and head. Paint empty butter tubs same color as the box. Glue the six butter tubs to the front of the box, 2 vertical rows, 3 in each row, closed end out. To create a matching hat, take a shoe box and spray paint it to match your costume. Glue small plastic cups (also painted) upside down to the bottom of the shoe box. Place the shoe box on your head. Paint your face the same color as your costume.

Recommended Reading: Family Fun Tricks and Treats great! My daughter & I love Halloween and when we saw this we bought it right away. There are so many wonderful ideas. A must have! There were a lot of spooky things to do with foods and great little ideas for those little helpers to decorate your home with lots of memories! You have to get this one!

About the Author
Amanda Formaro is the entrepreneurial mother of four children. She and her husband live in southeastern Wisconsin. She is also the owner of FamilyCorner.com Magazine at http://familycorner.com Subscribe to her free holiday newsletter, Family Holidays, by sending any email message to mailto:holidays-on@mail-list.com

More Halloween Fun and Activities!

Halloween Coloring Pages | More Halloween Coloring Pages
Halloween Costume Coloring Pages | Halloween Monster Coloring Pages
Frankenstein Coloring Pages | Pumpkin Coloring Pages | Witch Coloring Pages
Ghost Coloring Pages | Mummy Coloring Pages | Werewolf Coloring Pages
Haunted House Coloring Pages | Trick or Treating Coloring Pages
Jack-o-lantern Coloring Pages | Vampire Bats and Dracula Coloring Pages

Dear Reader: You can help us make this theme even better!

All of our theme ideas have come from our imagination and from reader submissions. Please use this form to contact us if you have crafts, activities, games, recipes, songs or poems that you would like us to add to this theme.

Webmasters and Authors:

We will gladly include a link back to your site or book in exchange for sharing your content. Just contact us!
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Halloween Votives - October 23, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Halloween Votives:

Collect one baby food jar, one votive, back & orange tissue paper, glue and paint brush for each child.

Soak labels off of jars. Let the jars dry. Let each child cut tissue paper pieces and glue onto the jar with paint brush...Much like a decoupage. They can make mosaics or even a jack-o-lantern. With permanent marker add child's name and date to the bottom of the jar. Add a votive. When they get home they have a wonderful, keepsake to use year after year.

Removing Fat From Cooked Foods - October 23, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Removing Fat From Cooked Foods

If time allows, the best method of removing fat is refrigeration until the fat hardens. If you put a piece of waxed paper over the top of the meal, it can be peeled right off, along with the hardened fat. Ice cubes will also eliminate the fat from soup and stew. Just drop a few into the pot and stir; the fat will cling to the cubes; discard the cubes before they melt. Or, wrap ice cubes in paper towel or cheesecloth and skim over the top.

Today's tip provided by our sister site FamilyCorner.com

Haunted House Screen Candle Holders From Yankee Candle

Jenny Wanderscheid — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Haunted House Screen Candle Holders Recalled by Coyne's & Co. Due to Fire Hazard; Sold Exclusively at Yankee Candle

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Haunted House Screen Tea Light Holders

Units: About 7,800

Distributor: Coyne's & Company, of Minneapolis, Minn.

Hazard: The window panes on the screen can ignite, posing a fire hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received three reports of the window pane catching fire. No injuries have been reported.

Description: This recall involves haunted house screen tea light holders made of black metal with a transparent coating on the glass windows. The haunted house measures 15-inches wide by 15-inches high by 4-inches deep and can hold up to six tea lights. Tea light candles are not involved in this recall.

Sold exclusively at: Yankee Candle stores nationwide and online at YankeeCandle.com between August 2009 and September 2009 for about $25.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the candle holders and contact Coyne's & Company or Yankee Candle for a full refund.

Consumer Contact: For more information, contact Coyne's & Co. at (800) 336-8666 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Thursday or visit the firm's Web site at www.coynes.com. Consumers can also email the firm at custserv@coynes.com

To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including a picture of the recalled product, please go to:

http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml10/10016.html

Flatware Recalled by Cambridge Silversmiths

Jenny Wanderscheid — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Flatware Recalled by Cambridge Silversmiths Due to Choking Hazard

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Fiesta Masquerade and Home Olympic Flatware

Units: About 13,000

Distributor: Cambridge Silversmiths Ltd. Inc., of Fairfield, N.J.

Hazard: The plastic decorative inserts on the flatware’s handles can detach during dishwashing, posing a choking hazard to children.

Incidents/Injuries: The company has received 28 reports of a plastic insert detaching from the flatware. One incident of injury reported, no specifics provided.

Description: This recall involves the Fiesta Masquerade and the Home Olympic 20- piece flatware sets. The Fiesta Masquerade flatware set is silver-colored and the handles have plastic decorative inserts in red, orange, yellow, green and three different shades of blue. The Home Olympic flatware sets are charcoal and the handles have decorative black inserts.

Sold exclusively at: Fiesta Masquerade at JCPenny, Federated Department Stores, Bealls and Homer Laughlin from November 2008 through May 2009 for about $70 per 20-piece set; Home Olympic at Target from August 2008 through August 2009 for about $30 per 20-piece set.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the recalled flatware sets immediately and contact the company to return the product and obtain a free replacement.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Cambridge Silversmiths at (800) 890-3366 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, visit the company’s Web site at www.cambridgesilversmiths.com or email service@cambridgesilversmiths.com

Decorate Masks - October 22, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Decorate Masks

I buy plastic half masks(found in dollar stores or party stores. Usually you can get 12 in a pack). I then give each child a mask. They then decorate the masks with feathers, stickers or gems found in craft stores. They really enjoy this and like to take the masks home to show mom or dad.

Soup Secrets - October 22, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Soup Secrets

Always make soup at least a day ahead of time, so that the seasonings will have time to improve the flavor. Never use salt or pepper to season soups until you are almost finished with the cooking process. Both of these seasonings will intensify and may give the soup too strong a flavor. When cooking soup, always cook with the lid on to help the flavors become better absorbed. When you make a cold coup, remember that a cold soup needs more seasoning than a hot soup. The heat tends to drive the flavors into the product more efficiently.

Today's tip provided by our sister site FamilyCorner.com

Halloween Safety Tips - Halloween Crafts and Activities

Jenny Wanderscheid — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Halloween Safety Tips

Ghouls and Goblins Fill the Air, Parents and Caregivers Must Beware!
From the Paranoid Sisters

With Halloween just around the corner, the "Paranoid Sisters," Lisa Carter and Lori Marques authors of Child Safety Made Easy have a few suggestions for parents and caregivers of Trick-or-Treaters:

Be sure your child's costume is age appropriate. Too many buttons and strings on baby's or toddler's costumes may present a choking hazard. Avoid any long tails or material hanging off costumes that may cause a child to trip or catch on fire if it gets too close to a lighted pumpkin.
Costumes should be light colored or have reflective tape attached to it, to make your child easy to see. Have your child carry a flashlight.
An adult should accompany all children throughout Trick-or-Treating. Don't allow older kids to stay out late in the night. This opens the possibilities for trouble to brew and can be irritating to homeowners.
Tell your children to obey all usual traffic safety rules: look both ways before crossing the street, hold hands, cross only at cross walks, etc.
Wait until you can look at the candy for tampering before you allow your child to eat any. Be sure it's age-appropriate also. No hard candy for children under 5 years, this is a possible choking hazard. Very chewy candy should be avoided, too.
Now get your little trick-or-treaters dressed up and ready to haul in the candy that surely they'll need a lot of help eating!

More Halloween Fun and Activities!

Halloween Coloring Pages | More Halloween Coloring Pages
Halloween Costume Coloring Pages | Halloween Monster Coloring Pages
Frankenstein Coloring Pages | Pumpkin Coloring Pages | Witch Coloring Pages
Ghost Coloring Pages | Mummy Coloring Pages | Werewolf Coloring Pages
Haunted House Coloring Pages | Trick or Treating Coloring Pages
Jack-o-lantern Coloring Pages | Vampire Bats and Dracula Coloring Pages

Frugal Halloween Costumes - Halloween Crafts and Activities

Jenny Wanderscheid — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Frugal Halloween Costumes - Ideas With Sweatsuits

Muscle Man- Paint or quilt muscles onto the front of a flesh-colored sweatshirt. Stuff arms to make biceps look big. You can also paint or quilt leg muscles onto flesh-colored pants, and have the child wear a pair of shorts over it. For a barbell, attach two black balloons to a cardboard paper towel roll or gift wrap roll painted black.

Road- A little boy I know asked his mom if he could be a road one year for Halloween. My creative friend Mary was up for the challenge, and made a really stunning costume. She put him in a black sweatsuit, then created an intersection out of cardboard, one for his front, one for his back. She painted the cardboard cross black, added white lines, and hot-glued toy cars to each side. She punch holes and strung the two intersections together with shoelaces or string so that he could slip on the road over his head. For a finishing touch, she took an old construction hat from his toy box, painted a black strip down the entire hat and added the white traffic lines. She hot-glued cars and a miniature road sign to the top. This was the most creative costume I have ever seen- simply adorable!

Spider- Stuff the legs of three pairs of black pantyhose and attach to a sweatshirt. Be sure to wear all black so your spider matches. Add a red spot on the back of the shirt for a black widow.

Cat-Wear a black sweatsuit with tail attached. Tail can be made of stuffed pantyhose or other fabric. Attack ears to a headband for girls, or make a hood (or use a hooded sweatshirt) and attach ears to that.

Cow- Add black spots to a white sweatsuit, add ears as for cat above- on a head band or hood. You can do almost any animal costume with a sweatsuit. Just adapt to whatever animal you like- brown suit with bushy tail for squirrel, large pink sweats stuffed with pillows and corkscrew tail for pig, etc.

Dragon-Add dragon scales to the back of a green or purple sweatsuit (best to use a hooded sweat shirt). You can make them from felt, shoulder pads (there is a use for those annoying things!), or paper plates, folded in half. Sew or glue onto sweatsuit, starting from the hood, and going down the back. Make a paper mache mask to complete the costume.

Skeleton- Add "bones" to an old black sweat suit by fabric painting them on or using white felt. You could also do this just to the shirt, and then alter a cardboard box to look like an x-ray machine.

Bug-Add extra arms (like the spider) and wings to create the bug of your choice. Use a hooded sweatshirt or add a hood. Attach antenae to hood or headband.

Butterfly-same as above, just add colorful cardboard wings

Flower-Use green sweatsuit for body, and make a flower hat/crown. You can make these out of posterboard and tissue paper, or craft one out of fabric. You can also Hot glue petals to a hat you already own. Remember to keep the scale big, so you child looks like a walking flower in bloom. Sunflowers and daisies work very well. Another approach: attach petals at the neck of the sweatshirt, so that your child's head is the center of the flower.

Carrot and other veggies-Wear an orange sweatsuit, paint face green, and spray hair with green hair spray. Looks even better if you tease hair to stand straight up. If you don't want to do the paint and hairspray, make an orange cap and attach pipecleaners and green yarn to the top. You can adapt any veggie to a sweatsuit costume-just be creative!

Pumpkin-large orange suit, stuffed with pillows. Add a jack-o-lantern face and a pumpkin top on hood, with some leaves for effect! For small kids, just make an orange big with a pumkin face and a bonnet with a pumpkin stump and leaves on it. Cute and easy.

Grapes-purple or green sweatsuit with matching balloons. Easy and fun.

Ideas Using Black Clothing
Costumes from Overalls
More Kid Costume Ideas from Their Closets
Kid Costumes from Adult Clothing
Costumes from Odds N' Ends Around the House
More Costume Ideas

About the Author
Kim Tilley, a tightwad at heart, is the mother of three active boys and the founding editor of Frugal-Moms.com. Frugal by force and later by choice, Kim cut her income by 60% to stay at home with her children and discovered that anyone can live better for less. Her work has appeared in print publications such as The Tightwad Gazette. In her free time, she entertains herself by chasing kids and finding ways to create something from nothing!

More Halloween Fun and Activities!

Halloween Coloring Pages | More Halloween Coloring Pages
Halloween Costume Coloring Pages | Halloween Monster Coloring Pages
Frankenstein Coloring Pages | Pumpkin Coloring Pages | Witch Coloring Pages
Ghost Coloring Pages | Mummy Coloring Pages | Werewolf Coloring Pages
Haunted House Coloring Pages | Trick or Treating Coloring Pages
Jack-o-lantern Coloring Pages | Vampire Bats and Dracula Coloring Pages

Costume Odds and Ends - Halloween Crafts and Activities

Jenny Wanderscheid — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Costume Odds and Ends

Take your recycling to a whole new level and create cheap, fun costumes from stuff you have lying around the house!
Balloons- Make a costume out of balloons and let them go out as a bunch of grapes. Put them in a green or purple sweatsuit and tape on matching balloons. Fun and easy!

Coffee cans- Make a top hat! That's what I did in the picture above. I just spray painted a large can and the top of a one gallon ice cream bucket, making them black. I then cut a hole in the ice cream bucket lid, and hot glued it to the can. It was not a comfortable hat, but it did work well as a prop, and cost just pennies (for the paint) to make.

Toilet Paper Rolls - Make a judge's wig out of toilet paper rolls! Save them up and staple together into a colonial-style wig. You can even spray paint it white, if needed. All they need is a gavel and a black graduation-type gown and the look is complete!

Sean as Abraham Lincoln. If you look closely, he is holding up the Gettysburg address in one hand and his black hat (made from a coffee can) in the other hand.The girl next to him is a sunflower.

Costume Ideas for Frugal Parents - Halloween Crafts and Activities

Jenny Wanderscheid — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Halloween Costume Ideas for Frugal Parents

It's that time of the year again! Time to start thinking about what in the world you're going to come up with this year for Halloween. I really enjoy Halloween and making costumes (as long as they are not gruesome). Here are some of the items that we've used to make fun, inexpensive costumes:
Using Items Your Kids Already Have:

Kids' Costumes From Adult Clothing - Halloween Crafts and Activities

Jenny Wanderscheid — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Kid's Costumes From Adult Clothing

Dress your kids up in some of your older, nice clothes that you don't wear anymore or find them at yard sales and thrift shops.

Old Suit- Dress up your son or daughter as little exectuive. A grown man's suit looks really cute on a 4-5 year old. Make sure to hem these so they won't be falling all over themselves while trick-or-treating.

Old Dresses- Little girls love to dress up as "mommy". You can also make "brides", "princesses" or fairies out of cast off prom/homecoming outfits. Add wings to make your kid an angel.

Army Fatigues- We dressed up Beau in some of our old army uniforms and he went as "G.I. Beau" (instead of G.I. Joe). If you don't have any fatigues laying around, check out the thrift stores and yard sales. Our kids love camouflage, so we pick it up on sale, clearance, wherever, in their size. Instant costumes, plus play clothes.

White blouse- add some baggy dark pants and a sash to create an instant pirate outfit. Add a belt, some rain boots and a cardboard sword and you're in business.

Old band jacket- If you can find a marching band jacket at a yard sale, thrift shop, or in your closet, your child can be a "Modern Major General" or a Napoleon. Make a funny paper hat to go with the jacket, add some white pants and some boots.

Retro clothing - If you have any castoff clothing from the 60s and 70s still rolling around and your teen hasn't already stolen them to wear to school, dress up your kid as a hippee.

Bathrobe- Can be used as a king or queen's robe, a space alien, or dress your teen daughter up as a housewife- with curlers and a facial mask (and don't forget the mop!). That should scare anyone! Even scarier if a teen boy dresses as a housewife, but he has to agree to it first! One year our paper boy dressed up like this and I nearly fell over laughing.

Homemade Halloween Costumes - Halloween Crafts and Activities

Jenny Wanderscheid — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Homemade Halloween Costumes

Girls

I made my headpiece for my wedding and discovered how inexpensive and easy it is to do. Instead of buying my friends' daughters a bunch of toys for Christmas, I've decided to make them each a small headpiece to play dress up with. They all love dressing up like brides and princesses and such and these are so much nicer than the ones you get for dress up boxes.

They only cost about $4.00 to make, the material to make a veil runs for about a dollar a yard, and you don't have to make them perfect for kids.

If anyone is interested in a Halloween costume for a little girl, why not try this out? You can buy hair clips, headbands, flower girl halos, etc... at Walmart for a couple of dollars, as well as ribbon and silk flowers, fake pearls, etc....All you have to do is glue them on!

~ Submitted by Sarah

Boys

Take a brown paper grocery bag and turn it upside down. Cut holes in it for the child's head and arms. Cut the bottom into strips, like fringe. Add a few beads, and a feather headband and you now have an Indian costume.

Have the little boy wear one of yours or Dad's button down shirts. Put some of your lipstick or blush on his cheeks in circles. Add a tie, a hat that is too big, and some pants, and he is a hobo.

Have your child dress in all white. Take a white sheet and wrap around the child and pin it. Have the child sit down and bend his head over. Take a white towel a wrap it around his head "Sheik" style. Pin it to keep it together. You now have a makeshift Aladdin.

Have the child dress in all black. Take about three yards of black material and pin it to the back of his shirt. Slick back his hair, paint his face white, and you have a Dracula.

Put a lifejacket over his clothing, and a fisherman's hat on his head. A child's fishing pole (without a hook of course) makes this fisherman's costume complete.

A hat that your child wears tipped sideways, a black mustache drawn with eyeliner and an artist's palette that you cut out of cardboard make a nice artist's costume.

~ Submitted by Serena

Boys

My son Steve is really into middle ages stuff. He is dressing up as a knight.

His father cut out a shield and sword of plywood and together they painted on a coat of arms. It was a nice father and son time together.

If you are not so handy with a saw it can also be done with cardboard, markers or paint. To seal it from the weather cover in clear contact paper.

Creative ideas are much more fun than store bought items. They will have a lasting meaning with your children as they remember the time you spent together.

~ Submitted by Carol

About the Author
Amanda Formaro is the mother of four children. She and her husband live in Kenosha, Wisconsin. She is also the owner of The Family Corner.com website at http://www.thefamilycorner.com and runs the Frugal Mom Weekly newsletter.

More Halloween Fun and Activities!

Halloween Coloring Pages | More Halloween Coloring Pages
Halloween Costume Coloring Pages | Halloween Monster Coloring Pages
Frankenstein Coloring Pages | Pumpkin Coloring Pages | Witch Coloring Pages
Ghost Coloring Pages | Mummy Coloring Pages | Werewolf Coloring Pages
Haunted House Coloring Pages | Trick or Treating Coloring Pages
Jack-o-lantern Coloring Pages | Vampire Bats and Dracula Coloring Pages

Halloween Room Party Ideas - Halloween Crafts and Activities

Jenny Wanderscheid — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Halloween Room Party Ideas:
Part 1: Let The Games Begin!

Planning a room party for your child's class can seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be! Most of the room parents are very happy to help in the lower grade classrooms. With some planning of games and treats, you can have a lot of fun. I wrote this article because last year, when I was looking for new ideas for my middle son's room party, I could not find much. Everything I found was far too grotesque for a kindergarten party, and expensive too!

Here are some of the ideas I've used for for K-2nd grades, some are easy enough for preschoolers to do as well. As the kids get older, the classroom Halloween parties don't seem to be as common, but you could use these ideas for a home Halloween party as well.

Part 1: Let the Games Begin!

Games to Play with Large Groups

We are limited to a 45 minute party with almost 30 kids, so we pick 3 of these games, and figure that we'll probably get to two of them. One of the most successful parties we did involved setting up stations. We had 3 games set up, so that the kids could rotate among them. Everyone got to play all of the games and eat lots of treats within our 45 minute time frame- a big success! At another party, we decided along with the teacher to schedule the party right after lunch. We did the games, fed the kids treats, and then sent them outside to play and run all of that sugar off!

Pumpkin Bowling: Get a hold of 4-6 plastic pumpkin buckets and a small ball (plastic bowling balls are perfect). Stack the pumpkins in a pyramid on a hard surface and let the kids bowl to their hearts' content! Assign a little helper to assist you with picking up the pumpkins and stacking them. This was a big hit with the kindergartners!

Spider Toss : We were looking for a different take on the bean bag toss, so I made a game out of a cardboard box, some fabric scraps, and fabric paint. Basically, kids throw spider beanbags into a "web" with holes.

Web Box: The easiest way to make this is to spray paint the box black, paint on a web with with 3-dimensional fabric paint, and then go back and cut 5 or 6 holes between the webbing, evenly spaced around the spider web.

Spider bean bags: Cut two circles of black fabric and 8 little spider legs for each spider. Pin circles right sides together, pin top of 4 legs to each side (right and left sides) of spider body, remembering to pin the top of the leg to the outer edges to be sewn (don't pin the foot there). Stitch around edges, leaving a 2 inch opening for turning. Turn the spider body right side out, making sure all of the legs have been stitched on correctly. Fill with dried beans and slipstitched closed.

Face Painting: Paint a spider, a pumpkin or a ghost on their cheek-kids love this!

Costume Parade-My kids' school holds a costume parade every year, and the kids love it! They bring their costumes to school in their backpacks and dress up for the parade and party. If you can't parade the kids through the school, perhaps you can parade them through another classroom (hold a joint class party) or march them around the room. At home, have a parade down the street, but have some helpers with you to round up straggling troops. Do this during daylight, not nighttime, and be careful of traffic.

Ghost Guess : Kids are divided into two groups. One group goes out in to the hall and a mom puts a sheet over him/her. They then go back into the classroom and the other group of kids has to guess who is under the sheet!

Pin the Nose on the Pumpkin : Pin the nose on the donkey Halloween style. Easy to make with felt and Velcro.

Mummy Wrap- a big hit with older kids, but requires lots of toilet paper! Divide kids into teams of 2. One person stands still while to other wraps them in toilet paper as a mummy at the start signal. Kids are given 2 minutes or so to wrap their friend up, first team to win gets a prize. Then, the wrapped-up kids burst out of their wrappings and it's their turn to wrap up their buddy. Have the kids help clean up the toilet paper. We did this to the "Monster Mash" song, it was a big hit!

Ghost Bingo-Make bingo cards from poster board but instead the word bingo, put "ghost". If you really want to go all out, the kids could even have Halloween shapes that they put on the bingo card instead of the standard plastic chips or pennies. When the kids gets bingo, he calls out "ghost". Make sure there are lots of 7's and 13's on those cards!

Spooky Story Round Robin- sit kids in a circle. Someone starts the story (with something like "It was a dark and spooky night..."), and then the person sitting next to them continues the story, adding a sentence or two. Depending on the age, you can set the rules about how scary the story can be.

Spooky ABC's- Same idea as above, but children name spooky items with the alphabet. Each child must repeat the letters and spooky items said before his/her turn.

Boo, Boo, Ghost- Halloween version of duck, duck goose

Halloween Tic-Tac-Toe-Make the tic-tac-toe cards from orange or black poster board. I like to make the tic-tac-toe pieces out of juice can lids. I paint the lids, then glue on a felt bat, ghost, spider, or pumpkin. I always save those lids (much to my husband's dismay!), so I have a ton of them. You could also have the children make their own pieces by drawing on construction paper and cutting them out.

Musical Monster Mash-musical chairs with spooky music. Older kids might like to do a "Monster Mash Contest" where he who dances the craziest wins! I'm partial to the Monster Mash, They're Coming to Take Me Away, and all of those other great, spooky 50's songs. "Thriller" by Michael Jackson would be a good one too.

Messy But Fun Games-

Try these if you have a smaller group to work with, or time to fill. They are messier than the first games, but lots of fun!

Apple Bobbing-old fashioned and fun, but if it involved water and kids, you know if it will be messy! Great to do outside if the weather is decent.

Spider fishing-Put a plastic spider and a magnet on the end of a homemade fishing pole (stick with string tied on). Fill a small bucket, washtub, or baby pool with water. Add plastic flies with paper clips attached to them, so that the magnet will pick them up. You could also just put the magnet on the end of the fishing string and attach the paper clips to cheap plastic spiders. Go fishin'!

Spider Pinata-Make a pinata out of paper mache! It's not that hard. Mix one part water and one part flour to make a paste. Dip newspapers in the paste, and then spread over a good-sized balloon. When the newspaper has dried, pop the balloon and cut a slit in the top for placing candy. Spray paint the body black and add legs- the can also be made out of newspaper, or toilet paper/paper towel/gift wrap tubes. You can also use cardboard or chenille bumpies (from the craft store). Open slit at top and fill with candy, taping it back up (black electrical tape shouldn't show). Hang from a tree and let the kids go at it! Just make sure they hit the pinata and not each other!

Part 2: Activities and Crafts to Keep Them Busy

© Copyright 1999, Kim Tilley

About the Author
Kim Tilley, a tightwad at heart, is the mother of three active boys and the founding editor of Frugal-Moms.com. Frugal by force and later by choice, Kim cut her income by 60% to stay at home with her children and discovered that anyone can live better for less. Her work has appeared in print publications such as The Tightwad Gazette. In her free time, she entertains herself by chasing kids and finding ways to create something from nothing!

More Halloween Fun and Activities!

Halloween Coloring Pages | More Halloween Coloring Pages
Halloween Costume Coloring Pages | Halloween Monster Coloring Pages
Frankenstein Coloring Pages | Pumpkin Coloring Pages | Witch Coloring Pages
Ghost Coloring Pages | Mummy Coloring Pages | Werewolf Coloring Pages
Haunted House Coloring Pages | Trick or Treating Coloring Pages
Jack-o-lantern Coloring Pages | Vampire Bats and Dracula Coloring Pages

Black Halloween Costumes -Halloween Crafts and Activities

Jenny Wanderscheid — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Frugal Halloween Costumes:
Ideas For Dark Clothing

Black Jacket and Pants - These go a long way! We got three costumes out of a yard sale find black jacket and some black jeans my oldest son had. Here are some ideas:

Abraham Lincoln - One year, I made a beard out of fake fur and a top hat out of a coffee can and ice cream bucket lid (glue together, spray paint black). With a copy of the Gettysburg address, my tall, slender son made a perfect Abraham Lincoln (not the greatest picture, but you can see it here).

Sean and a friend kicking it up at a sock hop. The jacket was too big, and his hair wouldn't stay slicked back, but he had a lot of fun!

Halloween Party Crafts & Activities - Halloween Crafts and Activities

Jenny Wanderscheid — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Halloween Room Party Ideas:
Part 2: Activities and Crafts to Keep Them Busy

These are great classroom and room party activities. Some of the messier ones are best done with the smaller groups, or with lots of helpers and plenty of time.

Paper Bag Pumpkin - October 21, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Paper Bag Pumpkin

Using a large grocery bag, crumple newspaper and stuff. Twist top of paperback and tie. Have children paint the bag orange. Paint the face black. Paint stem green.

Substituting With Rice - October 21, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Substituting With Rice

Use rice in almost any dish that calls for pasta. It's cheaper and the mild flavor goes well with hearty, tangy flavors. For a quick lunch, pour a can of unreconstituted cream soup of any kind over a couple of cups of rice.

Today's tip provided by our sister site FamilyCorner.com

Foot Ghost - October 20, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Foot Ghost

Using white paper, have children step on paper and trace around their shoes. To make a face, use crayons, pens, or black construction paper with white chalk.

Freezer Sandwiches - October 20, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Freezer Sandwiches

Did you know that you can freeze peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for school lunch? It's true! Spread peanut butter on one slice of bread. On the other slice, spread a thin layer of peanut butter to act as a barrier for the jelly to avoid seepage, then spread on the jelly. Assemble the sandwich and freeze. In the morning, put the frozen sandwich in your kid's lunch box or bag and the sandwich will be perfect and ready for eating at lunchtime!

Today's tip provided by our sister site FamilyCorner.com

Halloween Fun for the Whole Family!

Jenny Wanderscheid — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 21:03:00 PDT

Check out all of our Halloween Fun and Activities!

Halloween Coloring Pages | More Halloween Coloring Pages
Halloween Costume Coloring Pages | Halloween Monster Coloring Pages
Frankenstein Coloring Pages | Pumpkin Coloring Pages | Witch Coloring Pages
Ghost Coloring Pages | Mummy Coloring Pages | Werewolf Coloring Pages
Haunted House Coloring Pages | Trick or Treating Coloring Pages
Jack-o-lantern Coloring Pages | Vampire Bats and Dracula Coloring Pages

Fun Game of the Month!!

Jenny Wanderscheid — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 14:18:00 PDT

Puffy Paint Cobwebs - October 19, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Puffy Paint Cobwebs

Mix equal parts of flour, salt, and water in a large bowl. Pour the mixture into squeeze bottles. Give each child a black paper plate or a piece of black construction paper. Let the children squeeze the white puffy paint onto the black paper. When the puffy paint dries, it will look like glittery cobwebs.

Routines - October 19, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Start Off the School Year w/Great Family Routines

The school year can be more sucessful and positive for both you and your children by establishing a number of simple routines.

REGULAR BEDTIME
Establish a regular bedtime to ensure that your children get enough sleep. This will effect their daily performance in school. Discuss the importance of this regular time with your children and let them know that all homework, television, snacks, baths, etc. will be completed by this time. As a result, it might be a good idea to establish a regular 'Get Ready for Bed' start time too!

HUG & KISS
As your children leave for school, give them a hug and kiss! Tell them that you love them and are proud of them. As they leave say, "Have a great day!' and let them know that you will be thinking of them during the day!

ANOTHER HUG & KISS!
When your children arrive home from school, give them another hug and kiss! Stop what you are doing for five minutes to sit with them individually and hear about their day. Ask them questions. Be enthusiastic, encouraging and positive.

THE BACKPACK
Look through your child's folder/bag each night. Check for homework, notes from school that need to be signed, etc. Praise them for great work and review errors that they have made without being condescending or hurtful.

PREPARATION
Set out the backpack, lunch, clothes, etc. the night before. Doing so can improve the morning routine by eliminating that last minute hunt for misplaced papers, shoes, and other items!

Today's tip provided by our sister site FamilyCorner.com

Spaghetti Cobwebs - October 16, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Spaghetti Cobwebs

Materials:

Cooked spaghetti (cold) White glue Waxed paper

Directions:

Have the children dip the spaghetti into the glue and arrange the pieces onto the waxed paper. When the spaghetti dries, carefully peel the "cobweb" off the waxed paper. Hang from the ceiling.

Small Ideas For Big Savings On Family Meals - October 16, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Small Ideas For Big Savings On Family Meals

You can save a tremendous amount of both time and money by making "freezer meals." You can usually make two or three meals' worth of food in about the same time it takes you to make one, saving on both the cost of ingredients and preparation time.

For example, try making three lasagnas instead of one. Then eat one that night, putting the other two in the freezer for later in the month.

As far as eating out is concerned, you need to think creatively. In most places in the U.S., lunch runs one-half to two-thirds of the price of dinner at the same restaurant. So consider scheduling a date for lunch instead of dinner (or maybe a very early dinner, squeezing in before 5 pm, when lunch-hour rates still apply).

Another trick, which will work with some restaurants, is to contact the headquarters of your favorite chain restaurants and let them know you'd be interested in serving as a "mystery shopper" or patron.

This refers to someone engaged by management to go in and eat at their restaurant for the purpose of giving them a customer's-eye-view of the food and service. You have to write a little report afterward but you get to eat for free (often with friends or family) and might even get a small payment on top of that.

Today's tip provided by our sister site FamilyCorner.com

Pumpkin Painting - October 15, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Pumpkin Painting

Buy several small, fresh pumpkins. Cut them in half. Let the children dip the pumpkin halves into paint to make prints.

Pumpkin Toss - October 15, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Pumpkin Toss

You take teams of 3 kids per one plastic pumpkin, given them each 10 pc's of candy corn. Let them toss candy into the pumpkins for a minute and at the end see which team got the most corn in the pumpkin.

Today's tip provided by our sister site FamilyCorner.com

ChildFun on Facebook

Jenny Wanderscheid — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 05:30:00 PDT

Show your love for ChildFun and become a fan on Facebook! Get all the latest updates to ChildFun via your favorite social networking site.

We will also be offering some contests and giveaways exclusively through our an page! Make sure to check it out today!

The ChildFun Family Website on Facebook

Footprint Ghosts - October 14, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Footprint Ghosts

Paint each child's foot with white paint and print it on a black sheet of construction paper. When it dries add eyes to the heel part of the foot (the "head" of the ghost.)

Milk Jug Mask - October 14, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Milk Jug Mask

As you hold on to the milk jug handle, cut around the top half way. Then go down each side. Next cut across the indented bottom. This will give you the front of your mask. Cut out the eyes in the milk indentions. Finally, use masking tape to cover the mask. Now paint with tempra paint, and decorate with yarn, beads, etc. Hole punch two holes on the side. Tie yarn to fit the mask on the head and tie. Great for Halloween or Native Americans for "false face" masks.

Today's tip provided by our sister site FamilyCorner.com

Halloween Pasta Necklaces - October 13, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Halloween Pasta Necklaces

Find Halloween shaped pasta. Let your children string the pasta shapes on a piece of yarn to create a necklace or bracelet.

Decorating - October 13, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Fun Decorating For Living & Family Rooms

-- Change the pillows on your sofa or wrap them in a fun fabric.

-- Drape ivy or a flower garland on the edge of a picture.

-- Change the photos in your frames. Get them out of your albums, boxes and drawers. During someone's birthday, it is fun to place photos from past years in a couple of frames. How about pictures from past Fourth of July or Halloween parties. What about old school pictures for September.

-- Change a couple flowers in your floral arrangements.

Today's tip provided by our sister site FamilyCorner.com

What's New at ColoringBookFun.com

Jenny Wanderscheid — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Have you seen what's new at ColoringBookFun.com lately?
Come check out our newly organized site with thousands of new Coloring Pages!
Oops -fixed those links from yesterday :)

Animals

Characters

Christian

Education

Food

Holiday

Miscellaneous

Nature

People

Get Firefox Today!

Jenny Wanderscheid — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 11:26:00 PDT

Just so you know, but I am so tired of Internet Explorer! Firefox runs faster, has less "issues" and every website I view, including mine, looks so much better! Firefox has built in pop up blockers too, and it's free! Download yours today! There is a lot of fun things you can do too, like download extras, add ons, and personalize it just for you!

Halloween Cookie Cutter Prints - October 12, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Halloween Cookie Cutter Prints

Buy an assortment of Halloween cookie cutters. Let the children dip the cookie cutters into paint and then press onto paper.

Fall Centerpiece - October 12, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Fall Centerpiece

Use artificial autumn leaves and/or small ears of Indian corn grouped with a few miniature pumpkins, or a few lollipop ghosts, etc. for a centerpiece.

Today's tip provided by our sister site FamilyCorner.com

MyChildFun.com is Mobile

Jenny Wanderscheid — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 10:02:00 PDT

Our discussion forums are now mobile! From your mobile phone, Iphone, Itouch, Blackberry or other mobile device just go to
http://m.mychildfun.com

147 New Animal Coloring Pages Added!

Jenny Wanderscheid — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT
ColoringBookFun is still the largest free coloring page site on the internet.

We added 147 new animal coloring pages today!

Click here to see all the new coloring pages!

Don't forget to become a fan of ChildFun on Facebook!
New Animal Coloring Pages as of October 17, 2009

678 New Coloring Pages Added!

Jenny Wanderscheid — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

ColoringBookFun is still the largest free coloring page site on the internet.

Right now we have 8,225 coloring pages available!

We added 678 new coloring pages since the last newsletter we sent!

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382 New Halloween Coloring Pages Added!

Jenny Wanderscheid — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

ColoringBookFun is still the largest free coloring page site on the internet.

Right now we have 8,607 coloring pages available!

We added 382 new Halloween coloring pages today!

Click here to see all the new coloring pages!

Don't forget to become a fan of ChildFun on Facebook!
Here's a list of all of our available Halloween Coloring Pages:

Halloween
Halloween 2
Halloween Witches
Werewolves
Halloween Mummies
Halloween Costumes
Frankenstein
Halloween Ghosts
Haunted Houses
Jack-o-lanterns
Halloween Monsters
Halloween Witches
Halloween Pumpkins
Trick or Treating
Vampire Bats and Dracula

Halloween Pasta Collage - October 9, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Halloween Pasta Collage

Check out your local grocery store, Michael's, Trader Joe's

Party Games - October 9, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Party Games - Who's Got the Pumpkin

Place everyone is a circle. Start a song (Halloween themed songs like Monster Mash are neat to use!) and toss a mini pumpkin to one person, they throw it to the next, and so on until the music stops. The person who is caught holding the pumpkin has to leave the circle. The last one left is the winner and keeps the pumpkin!

Today's tip provided by our sister site FamilyCorner.com

Glue Ghosts - October 8, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Glue Ghosts

Have the child draw a ghost outline on a piece of waxed paper, and then have them fill in the outline with white school glue. Dry overnight, and then have the child add facial features. Place on a string and you have a spooky ghost necklace.

Storing Apples - October 8, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Storing Apples

Buy apples on sale and store them through the winter! Most of them will be ready for harvest in the next few weeks (September). There are so many varieties, and they are such a great food. Thankfully, there is always some variety available in the stores year round. To save money, you can buy them on sale and store them. Almost any kind of apple will keep for several months if properly stored. Our grandparents had root cellars to store their produce. We can effectively store apples with just a box and some newspaper. One of the important steps in storing apples is to store them so they don't touch each other. If one apple rots, it will spread to the others if there is not a barrier between them. That is the reason for the newspaper.

Each apple should be individually wrapped with the newspaper (use only the black and white paper). They should be carefully placed in a box, and then the box placed in a dark room. You could use your garage, a pantry, an unheated porch or your basement. Anywhere where it is dark and cool (but not freezing) will work.

Only store apples without bruises or soft spots, and with the skin in perfect condition. Apples that have thicker skins will store longer than ones with thin skins, like Red Delicious. Jonathan is an example of an apple with a thick skin. Some varieties actually taste better after a few months of storage.

One other rule- never store apples near potatoes. As potatoes get older, they let off a gas that will hurt the apples.

Today's tip provided by our sister site FamilyCorner.com

Ghost Magnet - October 7, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Ghost Magnet

Make a ghost cut out of black construction paper and place in an old oatmeal

Cutting Brownies - October 7, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Cutting Brownies

I've found that the easiest way to cut brownies so that they don't crumble too much, fall apart or get generally messy is to use a plastic knife. I just wait until the brownies have cooled completely and use a plastic knife to cut them. It works every time! I always get brownies with nice, neat edges.

Today's tip provided by our sister site FamilyCorner.com

Trick-or-Treat bags - October 6, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Trick-or-Treat bags

Provide large paper bags. Fold down twice, staple handle on, and let children decorate front and back. I always provide stickers also for the children

Old Buckets - October 6, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Frugal Uses For Old Buckets (5-Gallon)

*Use as a garbage can for the basement or garage.

*Use when picking apples, pears, etc.

*Put a chair pad on it and use it as a seat.

*Use for collection when weeding the garden. When the bucket is full, transfer the weeds to a compost pile.

*Use as flower outdoor flower pots.

*Fill clean buckets with water for your dogs when they are outside in the summer. When the water gets dirty, use it to water the plants.

Today's tip provided by our sister site FamilyCorner.com

Leaf Witches - October 5, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Leaf Witches

Have children glue down pressed leaves on construction paper for witches body. Then allow them to fill in their own features on the witch. Perhaps they would like to have the witch riding on her broom or standing next to her brew.

Homestyle Aromatherapy - October 5, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Homestyle Aromatherapy

To replace unpleasant odors with scents that make the ENTIRE HOUSE smell good, try this homestyle "aromatherapy." Put 1 cup of water and 2 teaspoons of pumpkin-pie spice in a large microwave bowl or 4-cup glass measuring cup and heat on High until it boils. After the boiling point is reached, cook for 3 more minutes. Everyone will think you've been baking pumpkin pies. (Consider buying a pie or two to satisfy the cravings created by the pleasant smells.)

Source: "In the Kitchen with Heloise" (adapted)

Today's tip provided by our sister site FamilyCorner.com

Handprint Ghosts - October 2, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Handprint ghosts

Have the children paint their hands white and press onto black construction paper. When they dry have the children turn them upside down and add faces.

Planting Bulbs - October 2, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Planting Bulbs

With the approach of fall, now is the time to get those bulbs in the ground for spring blossoms such as tulips, hyacinths, daffodils and lilies. For the best results:

* Plant before the first frost.

* Dig a trench and place the soil on a plastic sheet.

* Place the bulbs in the trench according to your design, but don't let them touch. Make sure they are facing the right way up.

* Replace the soil.

* Water thoroughly. You can also add a layer of mulch to keep the bulbs moist.

Now all you have to do is wait for spring to see those healthy green sprouts that will grow into colorful flowers.

Today's tip provided by our sister site FamilyCorner.com

Place Mats - October 1, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Jenny Wanderscheid — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Place mats/Counters

Find an appropriate haunted house pattern. Make several copies and color, decorate, and laminate them as place mats. Find white lima beans at the grocery store

Soft Water - October 1, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Jenny Wanderscheid — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Soft Water Makes Clothes Last Longer

Soft water can increase the life and improve the appearance of your clothes. Soft water has less insoluble ions than does hard water. These ions, often calcium based, are actually deposited on the fibers of your clothes when you wash them. When the clothes are dry, the tiny deposits act like tiny knives that slowly destroy the fabrics each time you move. Even if the clothes do not fall apart prematurely, the destruction of the surface of the fibers will create that "old" look very quickly. Also, the hard water deposits themselves can reduce the brilliance of the colors along with the detergent residue. Soft water also requires less detergent and shorter wash and rinse cycles for additional savings.

Today's tip provided by our sister site FamilyCorner.com

The High Cost of Eating Healthy

Jenny Wanderscheid — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 06:00:00 PDT
Some friends and I were recently talking about how much eating healthy costs. It's true. A small carton of berries the other day was $5.00! WOW! I could have a whole meal at McDonalds for that much! I will admit, I have seen my food bill go up significantly. Especially since I live in Minnesota and in the winter, fresh produce gets trucked in from South America mostly. It is expensive. And if you want organic food, pretty much double the prices. Cheap, unhealthy food is INEXPENSIVE! You can buy carb filled sugary fatty garage for real cheap! Not only can you get it cheap, but you can get it SUPERSIZED! A family of five can eat at McDonalds for a month on what I spend in groceries in two weeks. It is insane!

BUT, let me put this in perspective for you.....and please, listen carefully.

My mother was overweight (severely obese - like 500 pounds), and she had arthritis (prescriptions), diabetes (prescriptions and blood testing supplies), heart problems (more prescriptions), and a few other prescriptions that I wasn't even sure what they were for...

She had to buy special clothes because she was SO large that they didn't carry her size in stores. Had to order it all and pay extra shipping costs. Special bras. Special shirts. Special pants. Special underwear. She had to buy a special machine to use on her legs to bring the pressure down, and had to buy special socks that were like $300 a pair.

She was so fat that she had trouble walking. She had to buy a cane. Then when that wasn't enough to help her, she had to buy a walker. Then when that couldn't support her weight, she had to buy a wheelchair. And then, when she couldn't handle that, it actually broke because she was so large, she had to buy one of those "scooters". But, she was too fat for a normal scooter, she had to buy a super heavy duty expensive scooter. She spent $3000 on a lift chair because she was so fat she couldn't stand up on her own. She had to buy a new mattress every couple years because she was SO fat that she ruined them.

She had to buy a special toilet partly to support her weight, and partly because she couldn't get down low enough to a regular toilet. She had to have her bathtub removed and get a special walk in shower. She had to pay to have special bars put in the shower to hang onto.

She had horrendous medical bills that even insurance and medicare didn't cover.

She lived with extreme humiliation due to her weight. She was ridiculed and teased behind her back. From the time I was little, people made fun of my mom. And not behind my back either. Growing up with the stigma of an obese parent is worse than you can imagine. It's like having a parent that is an alcoholic. (Gee, I must have hit the jackpot, I had one of those too.) She couldn't fly on a plane or go places she wanted because she was just too fat. She couldn't use most public restrooms. People, I could go on and on and on and on about the things she endured. I debated about using the word endured. Perhaps "brought on herself" would be better.

Yes, it is. She could have changed. She could have gotten help. She chose not to do so. And it killed her. She went into congestive heart failure at the VERY young age of 70 years old and died within days. It was all because of her weight. She left behind a family that still needed her, and 4 grand children who barely had a chance to know her....

That healthy $5 carton of berries doesn't sound so bad now, does it?

Tromping to the grocery store every 2-3 days to get fresh fruits and vegetables and spending more than I want just doesn't seem so bad...

Really my point is, the high price of the food is worth it. TOTALLY! The costs of high food are NOTHING compared to what happens to an obese person.....

Until next time!

Mrs. ChildFun

Don't Drown Your Food

Jenny Wanderscheid — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 05:54:00 PDT
Today I want to talk about FOOD! Yes, I love food. Hello, have you seen my before pictures, of course I love food. I love to cook. I love to eat. I love to eat out. I used to love complicated dishes with heavy sauces, Alfredo and hollandaise being my favorites. I loved ketchup and mayo. NUMMY! Oh, and steak sauce? My other fav! And cocktail sauce. And cheese. Oh Lord. I used to put cheese on everything because I thought it tasted better. My husband would cringe when he would grill a steak to perfection (he is an EXCELENT cook) and then I would slob sauce all over it. He'd say, "Don't drown your food." I always thought he was a poooper head as my daughter would say. It made it nummier. How could he not understand that?

Well, here we are years later, and I realize, he still weighs within a few pounds of when I met him 163 years ago. (It seems that long...LOL. Actually it's going on 18 years.) He looks amazing. He is not fat like me. And he DOESN'T DROWN HIS FOOD! Hmmm, maybe he is on to something here? He eats meat plain, he doesn't like sauces (except for occasional gravy - no one is perfect) he doesn't use condiments, and he doesn't like cheese on burgers, omelets or sandwiches. Hmmm. Then it hit me....

HE EATS CLEAN!!!!! Omg, it hit me one day when I was reading a little Tosca Reno. My husband eats clean and he doesn't even know it. He eats raw fruits and veggies, lean meat, and hardly any dairy, and yep, no white bread for this dude!

A few years ago, the idea of an omelet without cheese, or a sandwich without mayo would have gagged me. But I made SLOW changes. VERY slow. I went from full fat products to low fat to no fat to plain food that I could enjoy. (Watch your sugar content though. You must read labels!!) I went from regular cheese to low fat cheese to no cheese - it's just extra fat and calories. I went from piling on white sauces to sparingly using red sauces. Subtle changes over the last couple years. Now, I don't WANT cheese on my sandwich. I threw the mayo away because I was the only one that liked it before, and it's been so long since anyone used it, it's more of a science experiment than a condiment! And hummus and tomatoes make a sandwich much tastier than any cheese ever did. You can make changes too. And what's funny, is in the long run, you WILL like it better, and food actually tastes SO much better without all the sauces, creams and crap. And the calories and fat you save. It's insane!

Let's go through a typical meal to see what happens.

Old Breakfast

3 egg omelet with cheese cooked in butter
3-4 slices bacon or link sausage
2 slices white toast with real butter
Orange Juice (big glass)

Ugh, what was I thinking???? That lovely little meal adds up to 1240 calories, 77 grams of fat, (36 of them saturated) and 52 grams of protein. All by 8am. Well no wonder I weighed 235 jiggly pounds. I ate like that all the time!

Now I would have something more like this.

New Breafast

5 eggs white omelet with 1 tablespoon ground flax seed & 2 cups raw mushrooms cooked in a drizzle of olive oil.
1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries or raspberries
1 slice Ezekiel bread with a teaspoon of sugar free preserves or honey
1 cup green tea

Notice, this is actually MORE food. But, it's only 360 calories. We saved 880 calories!!! It is also only 7 grams of fat, with only 1 gram saturated, it has 12 grams of fiber, and 28 grams of protein. (You should never have more than 25-30 grams of protein at a time - your body cannot process it and guess what happens to calories your body can't process? THEY TURN INTO FAT !!!!!)

Now, if I had the first breakfast one day, and the second the next, it probably wouldn't taste great. Eating clean can take time to adjust to. Maybe jumping full force works for some people, but making gradual changes not only allows you to adjust, but your family as well. I have stopped buying white bread for instance. It was VERY gradual. They survived. They didn't even notice when I bought sugar free jelly. And when the sugar bowl was replaced with Stevia packets, they didn't mind. Your family will adjust too. I hear a lot of people say "Oh my husband would freak if we ate like that." Well, if you change things slow, they won't really notice. By the time they figure it out, you will be able to point out to them how much healthier they are. I have seen my boys go from borderline chubby, to lean and trim athlete types! What a gift I have given them to not go into adulthood as an obese person! I feel like the best mom in the world! As Flylady would say, take baby steps! But, more about food.

Let's look at a poor drowned sandwich I used to love. Bologna, American cheese, white bread and mayo on one side, butter on the other. (It gags me to even think that I used to like that....)

643 freakin calories. Ewww. That's not to mention the cheetos or some other crap I would have eaten with it. And washed it down with a coke to boot. Barf. Easily a 1000 calorie lunch.

Now a typical lunch would be some tuna, some sprouts and some hummus tucked into a pita bread. An apple. A dish of some fresh veggie like 2 cups of cauliflower, and a large glass of water, plus a cup of tea with honey in it. (I can forgo desserts usually, but tea with honey in it is my treat now.)

305 little butty calories, and twice the food! And only 6 grams of fat and 11 grams of fiber! Again, start with skipping the mayo and adding a slice of tomato or hummus. Switch from white to wheat. Switch from bologna to chicken or turkey. Baby baby steps!

Over the course of time, you will not want the condiments. I just ate a piece of salmon that I grilled last might. No seasonings, no sauces, no anything. Just the smokey flavor of the grill. It was beyond decadent. I used to eat piles of potatoes with gravy and butter. Today I had a sweet potato I cooked in the microwave, just plain, mashed up. I reveled in the texture and taste with nothing to cover it up!

So, I could go on all day, but I leave you with this. Condiments are hidden calories that you are just globbing on your hips and thighs. Might as well just stick that package of jeans into the top of your jeans and let your muffin top flop because that is where it is going to go! Being aware of what goes into your mouth can be a real eye opener. Start reading those labels and start adding up those hidden calories! You'd be surprised at what a few little changes can add up to in your daily caloric intake!

Love, laughter and light,
Mrs. ChildFun

ChildFun Updates

Cornucopia Place Cards - November 13, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Home Security - November 13, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Easy Pilgrim Hat - November 12, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Sealed Inside & Out - November 12, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

What's For Dinner Placemats - November 11, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Furnace/Heat System - November 11, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Furnace/Heat System:

Autumn Craft - November 10, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Prevent Injuries - November 10, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Prevent injuries.

Thankful Book - November 9, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Gaming Consoles - November 9, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Children's Art Easels Recalled by MacPherson's Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard

Adventure Playsets Recall to Repair Backyard Swing Sets Due to Fall Hazard

Wallpaper Turkeys - November 6, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Energy Costs - November 6, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Turkey Popcorn Picture - November 5, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Clean Gutters - November 5, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Indian Corn Napkin Holders - November 4, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Clean Pantry - November 4, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Election Day Coloring Pages

Thankful Wreath - November 3, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Manage Stress - November 3, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Manage stress

Disney's Tinkerbell and the Lost Treasure Printables

Disney's UP Activity Printables

Enter to Win the New Klutz Book!

Two ChildFun visitors will win TWO copies of this new book.

To win, just fill out the form below! We will randomly pick two winners on December 1st, 2009! If you just can't wait, you can purchase the book by clicking here.

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Handprint Turkey Card - November 2, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Task Lighting - November 2, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Veteran's Day Crafts and Activities

Veteran's Day Crafts and Activities Click here for Veteran's Day Coloring Pages!And more Veteran's Day Coloring Pages

Pumpkin Painting - October 30, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Halloween Safety - October 30, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

There are many ways to keep your child safe at Halloween, when they are more prone to accidents and injuries. The excitement of children and adults at this time of year sometimes makes them forget to be careful. Simple common sense can do a lot to stop any tragedies from happening.

Scrap Paper Jack-O-Lantern - October 29, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Prevent Winter Problems, Clean Gutters & Downspout - October 29, 2009 - Daily Family ...

Mr Pumpkin Head - October 28, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Planting Trees - October 28, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Halloween Safety Tips

Handprint Ghosts

Halloween Craft Projects

More Halloween Fun and Activities!

Paper Bag Pumpkins

Halloween Craft Projects Paper Bag Pumpkins

More Halloween Fun and Activities!

Paper Plate Bat - October 27, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Dining-Out Secrets - October 27, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Halloween Bags - October 26, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Halloween & Your Dog - October 26, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Win a $100 Toys R Us Gift Card

More Frugal Halloween Costumes - Halloween Crafts and Activities

Frugal Halloween Costumes - Ideas With Overalls

More Halloween Fun and Activities!

Halloween Party Snacks - Halloween Crafts and Activities

Halloween Party Snacks

More Halloween Fun and Activities!

Cardboard Box Costumes - Halloween Crafts and Activities

Cardboard Box Costumes

More Halloween Fun and Activities!

Halloween Votives - October 23, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Removing Fat From Cooked Foods - October 23, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Haunted House Screen Candle Holders From Yankee Candle

Flatware Recalled by Cambridge Silversmiths

Flatware Recalled by Cambridge Silversmiths Due to Choking Hazard

Decorate Masks - October 22, 2009 - Quick and Easy Daily Crafts for Kids

Soup Secrets - October 22, 2009 - Daily Family Friendly Tips

Halloween Safety Tips - Halloween Crafts and Activities

Halloween Safety Tips

More Halloween Fun and Activities!

Frugal Halloween Costumes - Halloween Crafts and Activities

Frugal Halloween Costumes - Ideas With Sweatsuits

More Halloween Fun and Activities!

Costume Odds and Ends - Halloween Crafts and Activities

Costume Odds and Ends

Costume Ideas for Frugal Parents - Halloween Crafts and Activities

Halloween Costume Ideas for Frugal Parents

Veteran's Day Crafts and Activities

Click here for Veteran's Day Coloring Pages!

And more Veteran's Day Coloring Pages

Halloween Craft Projects
Paper Bag Pumpkins