Gotta have rules!
Check out the video below!
Video: Mommy teaches the Rules of Trick or Treating!
Saturday, October 26, 2013
Saturday, April 6, 2013
Easy travel with Baby Bottles
When traveling with a baby or toddler there are some quick tips that might make your flight day a little more convenient for bottle time. (Works great for long road trips too!)
Bottles:
Use bottle inserts. You can easily throw them away and insert a new one for the next use. This is particularly handy at times when you do not have a proper washing area. I was always leery of rinsing or washing bottles in a public restroom.
2-3 Clean and Sanitized Bottle Nipples - Pop a new bottle insert in and use a new bottle nipple until you get to your destination and can properly sanitize.
Travel Pacifier Wipes - these can double as a bottle/nipple sanitizer in a pinch. There are several organic brands and non-chemical pacifier wipes on the market.
Sippy Cups:
A nice "spill proof" sippy cup is handy if you plan on utilizing the juice from the airline. Most flight attendants will pour the juice into the cup for you during drink service. You can also rinse it with bottled water and use pacifier wipes to clean in a pinch.
We once had a 9 hour travel day with a long layover. I was thankful to have an alternate cleaning method for our bottle nipples. We had packed bottle inserts and 3 clean "ready to go nipples" but a delay created a need to rinse and sanitize for additional use. The above method worked great in a pinch!!
Bottles:
Use bottle inserts. You can easily throw them away and insert a new one for the next use. This is particularly handy at times when you do not have a proper washing area. I was always leery of rinsing or washing bottles in a public restroom.
2-3 Clean and Sanitized Bottle Nipples - Pop a new bottle insert in and use a new bottle nipple until you get to your destination and can properly sanitize.
Travel Pacifier Wipes - these can double as a bottle/nipple sanitizer in a pinch. There are several organic brands and non-chemical pacifier wipes on the market.
Sippy Cups:
A nice "spill proof" sippy cup is handy if you plan on utilizing the juice from the airline. Most flight attendants will pour the juice into the cup for you during drink service. You can also rinse it with bottled water and use pacifier wipes to clean in a pinch.
We once had a 9 hour travel day with a long layover. I was thankful to have an alternate cleaning method for our bottle nipples. We had packed bottle inserts and 3 clean "ready to go nipples" but a delay created a need to rinse and sanitize for additional use. The above method worked great in a pinch!!
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Packing for Daddy's first "boys" trip!
Daddy recently took the kids on a daddy/son mini vacation. One Dad, two kids - carry on bags only... hmmm.... what to pack for a trip to the beach?
We decided on one carry on roll behind suitcase, the kids roll behind "Batman" school bag, and a backpack for Daddy in lieu of a diaper bag. We had to ensure they had everything including the special items needed for our little guys food allergies and asthma. It was important that Dad was able to keep his hands free to hold our three year old's hand during travel. Dad would carry a backpack and the rolling suitcase, and our five year old was a proud big-boy rolling his own "Batman" suitcase through the airport.
What we packed:
Medical & allergy items:
*Nebulizer & albuterol
*Inhaler
*Small zip lock of tylenol, bandaids, childrens Advil, & Childrens Zyrtec
*Epipen
*Similason Kids Ear Relief drops (These ear drops work great for ear trouble after swimming) - I've posted a link below to a similar Similason product for adults.
Clothing:
*4 Shirts for each child
*1 Pair of pants (plus the pants worn during flight)
*3 pairs of shorts for each child
*6 pairs of socks & 6 pairs of underwear
*Two bathing suits and a few swim diapers
*One light jacket for each child (worn during flight)
*2 swim vests
*Tennis shoes (packed), crocs worn during flight
*Sanitizer hand wipes (used to wipe down the arm rests and trays on the plane and anytime hand washing is not an option.)
By rolling all of their clothes, Dad was also able to pack everything he needed in the same carry on suitcase. Diapers and wipes are stuffed in every open space and all the side pockets!
To help keep daddy's hands free in the airport, they carried one booster seat (hooked to the roll behind suitcase) and rented an additional toddler car seat from the car rental company. Usually we would have the car seats in a gate side check bag. It was worth the extra few dollars to rent a car seat and travel lighter on this particular trip.
Toys & flight amusement:
*Ipad with a few downloaded kids movies (you can also load movies on most phones)
*Crayons, coloring books, and a blank travel drawing pad
*Animal crackers, cheese crackers, 4 juice boxes
*One fun superhero cape for each child - it's hard to be in a bad mood during a rough travel day if you are with a Superhero!
*Two children's books
IMPORTANT TIP - place all juice boxes and liquid medicine in Zip Lock bags at the TOP of your easiest-to-open carry on bag. The last thing you want to do is dig through your bags in the middle of security when traveling with small kids. Small juice boxes ARE usually allowed through TSA at most airports for children under 4 years of age.
Whew! We packed all of those items in one carry on suitcase and two smaller carry on backpacks. The boys took off and this mommy was teary eyed watching her boys excitedly go through security. One last wave and they were off for the first of many special trips with daddy.
*UPDATE - Security at several airports have changed the rules for carry on liquids. On my family's return trip they had to throw away the carry on juice boxes and toiletries in the TSA line. Call your departure airport to inquire prior to packing juices and non-medical liquids in your carry on luggage.
We decided on one carry on roll behind suitcase, the kids roll behind "Batman" school bag, and a backpack for Daddy in lieu of a diaper bag. We had to ensure they had everything including the special items needed for our little guys food allergies and asthma. It was important that Dad was able to keep his hands free to hold our three year old's hand during travel. Dad would carry a backpack and the rolling suitcase, and our five year old was a proud big-boy rolling his own "Batman" suitcase through the airport.
What we packed:
Medical & allergy items:
*Nebulizer & albuterol
*Inhaler
*Small zip lock of tylenol, bandaids, childrens Advil, & Childrens Zyrtec
*Epipen
*Similason Kids Ear Relief drops (These ear drops work great for ear trouble after swimming) - I've posted a link below to a similar Similason product for adults.
Clothing:
*4 Shirts for each child
*1 Pair of pants (plus the pants worn during flight)
*3 pairs of shorts for each child
*6 pairs of socks & 6 pairs of underwear
*Two bathing suits and a few swim diapers
*One light jacket for each child (worn during flight)
*2 swim vests
*Tennis shoes (packed), crocs worn during flight
*Sanitizer hand wipes (used to wipe down the arm rests and trays on the plane and anytime hand washing is not an option.)
By rolling all of their clothes, Dad was also able to pack everything he needed in the same carry on suitcase. Diapers and wipes are stuffed in every open space and all the side pockets!
To help keep daddy's hands free in the airport, they carried one booster seat (hooked to the roll behind suitcase) and rented an additional toddler car seat from the car rental company. Usually we would have the car seats in a gate side check bag. It was worth the extra few dollars to rent a car seat and travel lighter on this particular trip.
Toys & flight amusement:
*Ipad with a few downloaded kids movies (you can also load movies on most phones)
*Crayons, coloring books, and a blank travel drawing pad
*Animal crackers, cheese crackers, 4 juice boxes
*One fun superhero cape for each child - it's hard to be in a bad mood during a rough travel day if you are with a Superhero!
*Two children's books
IMPORTANT TIP - place all juice boxes and liquid medicine in Zip Lock bags at the TOP of your easiest-to-open carry on bag. The last thing you want to do is dig through your bags in the middle of security when traveling with small kids. Small juice boxes ARE usually allowed through TSA at most airports for children under 4 years of age.
Whew! We packed all of those items in one carry on suitcase and two smaller carry on backpacks. The boys took off and this mommy was teary eyed watching her boys excitedly go through security. One last wave and they were off for the first of many special trips with daddy.
*UPDATE - Security at several airports have changed the rules for carry on liquids. On my family's return trip they had to throw away the carry on juice boxes and toiletries in the TSA line. Call your departure airport to inquire prior to packing juices and non-medical liquids in your carry on luggage.
 |
| Excited boys! |
 |
| Batman on board! |
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Travel Gadgets - BRICA Roll n Go™ Car Seat Transporter
A few years ago we were struggling with our luggage and car seats at the airport. It was one of those nightmare vacation moments. Two kids, three suitcases, a stroller, and two car seats. We spotted a woman, traveling alone with two kids, seamlessly rolling one child in a car seat in front of her, while pulling another child in a car seat behind her.
WHAT was this contraption and how do we get one?!?!? Later, when my husband was taking a trip alone with our oldest son, we searched the internet until we found the BRICA ROLL'N GO CAR SEAT TRANSPORTER.
The car seat snaps right on to the frame allowing you to roll your car seat and your child through the airport. When you arrive at the gate the Roll'n Go folds up and fits in the overhead compartment. We place the Roll'n Go and car seat in a car seat bag for gate check.
This really is a great gadget that eases airport travel stress preventing the need to carry a heavy car seat through the airport.
WHAT was this contraption and how do we get one?!?!? Later, when my husband was taking a trip alone with our oldest son, we searched the internet until we found the BRICA ROLL'N GO CAR SEAT TRANSPORTER.
The car seat snaps right on to the frame allowing you to roll your car seat and your child through the airport. When you arrive at the gate the Roll'n Go folds up and fits in the overhead compartment. We place the Roll'n Go and car seat in a car seat bag for gate check.
This really is a great gadget that eases airport travel stress preventing the need to carry a heavy car seat through the airport.
 |
BRICA Roll n Go™ Car Seat Transporter |
Please leave your tips, comments, & questions below. Make sure to "like" us on Facebook for more Fun Family Vacation ideas!
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Traveling abroad with children and food allergies
Our son has a SEVERE egg allergy. That includes anything with eggs or egg products, cookies, pastries, most breaded foods, some breads, and even some candy. We have to read labels very carefully as we once found a hard candy lollypop containing egg whites at a theme park.
With a few precautions and a little planning a person with food allergies can travel safely to almost anywhere home or abroad. A few tips and tricks from our travels:
1. Choose a destination that is right for your family. All inclusive resorts are a lot of fun, however you will need to call ahead to make sure they can accommodate your child's food allergy during every meal. Consider a renting a condo and making your own meals. This way you KNOW the your child's food will be safe.
2. Research the area and know the closest hospitals and clinics in case of a reaction. Having appropriate medical care available and knowing how to dial the local emergency number is essential.
3. Be careful when eating out. Talk to the chef prior to ordering. Make sure they know the ingredients your child needs to avoid. Most restaurants will be more than happy to accommodate your requests. Know how to state your child's allergy in the country's local language if you are traveling abroad. We have made index cards in various languages detailing the food items we need to avoid. There are also several food allergy translation apps available for your smart phone.
4. Pack extra snacks and medical items. Find easy to pack snacks that are safe for your child. Make sure to have any emergency medicine such as an epipen on hand.
5. When attending a hotel/resort kids camp send your own allergy-free snacks. We pack enough dry snacks in our luggage to offer something each day if we cannot purchase needed items locally. There is generally a good selection of fruit he can eat for snacks, but it is nice to have our own version of a dessert when the other kids are enjoying an afternoon cookie. Tip: Carry an extra epipen prescription and allergy action plan from your doctor in case you need a refill or have issues in customs with any medicine or special food items in your luggage. Often times pharmacies in foreign countries will honor your prescription.
One of the biggest problems we have is people randomly offering our child food that would cause him an allergic reaction. They are trying to be "nice" but too often the cookie is in hand by the time we intercept. He has started wearing this button during times when we might be around other families or food events (resort events) where people may try to be "nice" by offering him food.
Some packing essentials:
*A copy of your child's prescriptions from the doctor along with his/her allergy or asthma action plan.
*2-3 Epipens. One in your carry on bag and one in your checked luggage.
*Medical Alert Bracelet.
*2 Inhalers, children's Benadryl and any other medicine on your action plan.
*Nebulizer and albuterol in case of respiratory reaction (if indicated by your Doctor).
Our toddler doesn't completely understand his allergy but he remembers one of his bad reactions. We constantly remind him that eggs "make him sick." He is beginning to recognize items, such as cookies, that he should avoid.
Some easy-travel snack ideas (depending on your particular allergy):
*Pre-packaged rice crispy treats - they are small enough to stuffed into various pockets of your luggage. We can also take them to restaurants for his "dessert"
*Raisins
*Divvies allergy free pre-packaged cookies - This is a wonderful bakery that ships their nut, egg, and dairy free items directly to your door. (See the link below or visit them at divvies.com.) Also good for restaurants.
*Goldfish & Cheerios
*Fruit Snacks
*Graham Crackers
*Pretzel Sticks
Remember to take snacks to restaurants so you will have "emergency" options in case you are uncomfortable with the menu.
Finally, consider purchasing medical trip insurance that covers any emergencies or even transport home. We purchased insurance for our entire family for around $36 during our last overseas vacation. Thankfully we didn't use it but the cost was worth knowing we would have transport back to the states in case of emergency.
We have taken several vacations since learning of our son's egg allergy. We have not experienced any problems and have had an absolute blast! Don't let a food allergy spoil vacation memories for your family. Be careful, plan accordingly, and if you aren't sure - don't eat it!
Be sure to post your tips, comments, questions below. Consider "liking" us on facebook for more fun family vacation information!
With a few precautions and a little planning a person with food allergies can travel safely to almost anywhere home or abroad. A few tips and tricks from our travels:
1. Choose a destination that is right for your family. All inclusive resorts are a lot of fun, however you will need to call ahead to make sure they can accommodate your child's food allergy during every meal. Consider a renting a condo and making your own meals. This way you KNOW the your child's food will be safe.
2. Research the area and know the closest hospitals and clinics in case of a reaction. Having appropriate medical care available and knowing how to dial the local emergency number is essential.
3. Be careful when eating out. Talk to the chef prior to ordering. Make sure they know the ingredients your child needs to avoid. Most restaurants will be more than happy to accommodate your requests. Know how to state your child's allergy in the country's local language if you are traveling abroad. We have made index cards in various languages detailing the food items we need to avoid. There are also several food allergy translation apps available for your smart phone.
4. Pack extra snacks and medical items. Find easy to pack snacks that are safe for your child. Make sure to have any emergency medicine such as an epipen on hand.
5. When attending a hotel/resort kids camp send your own allergy-free snacks. We pack enough dry snacks in our luggage to offer something each day if we cannot purchase needed items locally. There is generally a good selection of fruit he can eat for snacks, but it is nice to have our own version of a dessert when the other kids are enjoying an afternoon cookie. Tip: Carry an extra epipen prescription and allergy action plan from your doctor in case you need a refill or have issues in customs with any medicine or special food items in your luggage. Often times pharmacies in foreign countries will honor your prescription.
One of the biggest problems we have is people randomly offering our child food that would cause him an allergic reaction. They are trying to be "nice" but too often the cookie is in hand by the time we intercept. He has started wearing this button during times when we might be around other families or food events (resort events) where people may try to be "nice" by offering him food.
Some packing essentials:
*A copy of your child's prescriptions from the doctor along with his/her allergy or asthma action plan.
*2-3 Epipens. One in your carry on bag and one in your checked luggage.
*Medical Alert Bracelet.
*2 Inhalers, children's Benadryl and any other medicine on your action plan.
*Nebulizer and albuterol in case of respiratory reaction (if indicated by your Doctor).
Our toddler doesn't completely understand his allergy but he remembers one of his bad reactions. We constantly remind him that eggs "make him sick." He is beginning to recognize items, such as cookies, that he should avoid.
Some easy-travel snack ideas (depending on your particular allergy):
*Pre-packaged rice crispy treats - they are small enough to stuffed into various pockets of your luggage. We can also take them to restaurants for his "dessert"
*Raisins
*Divvies allergy free pre-packaged cookies - This is a wonderful bakery that ships their nut, egg, and dairy free items directly to your door. (See the link below or visit them at divvies.com.) Also good for restaurants.
*Goldfish & Cheerios
*Fruit Snacks
*Graham Crackers
*Pretzel Sticks
Remember to take snacks to restaurants so you will have "emergency" options in case you are uncomfortable with the menu.
Finally, consider purchasing medical trip insurance that covers any emergencies or even transport home. We purchased insurance for our entire family for around $36 during our last overseas vacation. Thankfully we didn't use it but the cost was worth knowing we would have transport back to the states in case of emergency.
We have taken several vacations since learning of our son's egg allergy. We have not experienced any problems and have had an absolute blast! Don't let a food allergy spoil vacation memories for your family. Be careful, plan accordingly, and if you aren't sure - don't eat it!
Be sure to post your tips, comments, questions below. Consider "liking" us on facebook for more fun family vacation information!
Crocs with Socks! Breaking fashion laws when traveling
Most airports still require the adults to take off their shoes when passing through security. A few airports also require children to remove their shoes.
That's why our family travels in "Crocs with Socks." Yes, it is a HUGE fashion faux pas.....
BUT.... have you ever had to tie your shoes while chasing a rambunctious tot? Your kids are not allowed to stay in a stroller through security and having a quick slip on pair of shoes is a life saver!
PLUS - they are comfortable and can dual as water/beach shoes.
Are YOU willing to break fashion laws for comfort when traveling? Do you care what other travelers think?
Post your favorite travel shoes below!
That's why our family travels in "Crocs with Socks." Yes, it is a HUGE fashion faux pas.....
BUT.... have you ever had to tie your shoes while chasing a rambunctious tot? Your kids are not allowed to stay in a stroller through security and having a quick slip on pair of shoes is a life saver!
PLUS - they are comfortable and can dual as water/beach shoes.
Are YOU willing to break fashion laws for comfort when traveling? Do you care what other travelers think?
Post your favorite travel shoes below!
Our first Airplane Trip - flying with a baby
When my oldest son was about 8 months old I decided to plan a trip (sans daddy) to see grandma and grandpa in Texas. After hearing numerous horror stories I was extremely nervous about flying alone with a baby. Due to this, I probably over analyzed and over planned for this short 4 day trip. What I did find was traveling with babies can be FUN and EXCITING if done with the right tools and attitude.
Most airlines are very family friendly but you should follow a few guidelines to ensure a smooth trip:
Arrive at the airport early - You'll need time to do one last potty break or diaper change prior to boarding the plane. You'll most likely have a few additional items to check at the gate (car seat & stroller).
Pack plenty of toys, snacks, diapers, and formula/breast milk - Depending on the length of your flight and possible unanticipated delays you need plenty of items to keep your baby occupied. Bring a blanket that can dual as a cover if you need to breast feed on the plane. The seats on a plane are "close quarters" and not the most comfortable for proper feeding. Making sure both you and your neighbors have the best flight possible will be greatly appreciated by both the staff and other passengers.
*You can bring your formula/breast milk and juice for your child (even if it is over 4 ounces), however TSA may require extra testing when you pass through security.
If you can afford it - purchase a seat for your baby - Having your child secure in a seat next to you is much safer and more comfortable for both mom and baby. There are many reports of injuries during turbulent flights. You wouldn't dream of placing your baby in a car without a car seat or seat belt, bad turbulence on a plane can be just as dangerous. Many car seats, especially carrier seats can be secured with the seat belt on a plane. Check with your airline and car seat manufacturer to see if your seat is FAA approved. If purchasing an extra seat is not possible for your family, make sure you have a good secure hold on your baby.
Babies Cry - it's ok - Sometimes during a flight, babies cry and it's ok. This is where having plenty of toys and distractions will help alleviate a stressful situation. Keep your calm and start trying your "distractions" toys, snacks, a bottle. If your child takes a pacifier use it during take off and landing to help alleviate any ear pain your baby may experience.
*Bring your baby's favorite small toy, stuffed animal, or blanket
Remember - this is an exciting new adventure for your family! The most important thing is to remember to allow yourself a lot of extra time at the airport. Not being in a rush will ensure a great beginning to a stress free flight!
Happy travels!
Some carry on suggestions:
*Disposable diapers and wipes - bring enough for double your travel time in case of delay. Cloth diapers are not practical if your flight is delayed as you may not be able to carry soiled diapers in your diaper bag.
*Formula/Breast Milk/baby food - The new "squeezable" food packets are light and easy to pack in your carry on bag. Don't forget your cheerios and teething biscuits!
*Favorite Toy & Blanket - Helpful during your entire trip.
*Bring a NEW toy - sometimes if your baby is fussy, introducing a new toy your child has never seen will help to calm and distract baby.
*TWO extra sets of clothing for your baby - and an extra set for you! There is a high chance you may need to change your baby's clothing more than once and you might need to change your shirt. Bring a plastic bag for soiled clothing.
*Sanitizer wipes and hand sanitizer for you - there may be instances where you cannot wash your hands. Sanitizer wipes are also handy to wipe down the arm rests, window, and seat tray surrounding your baby.
What are your carry on suggestions? Comment below!
Most airlines are very family friendly but you should follow a few guidelines to ensure a smooth trip:
Arrive at the airport early - You'll need time to do one last potty break or diaper change prior to boarding the plane. You'll most likely have a few additional items to check at the gate (car seat & stroller).
Pack plenty of toys, snacks, diapers, and formula/breast milk - Depending on the length of your flight and possible unanticipated delays you need plenty of items to keep your baby occupied. Bring a blanket that can dual as a cover if you need to breast feed on the plane. The seats on a plane are "close quarters" and not the most comfortable for proper feeding. Making sure both you and your neighbors have the best flight possible will be greatly appreciated by both the staff and other passengers.
*You can bring your formula/breast milk and juice for your child (even if it is over 4 ounces), however TSA may require extra testing when you pass through security.
If you can afford it - purchase a seat for your baby - Having your child secure in a seat next to you is much safer and more comfortable for both mom and baby. There are many reports of injuries during turbulent flights. You wouldn't dream of placing your baby in a car without a car seat or seat belt, bad turbulence on a plane can be just as dangerous. Many car seats, especially carrier seats can be secured with the seat belt on a plane. Check with your airline and car seat manufacturer to see if your seat is FAA approved. If purchasing an extra seat is not possible for your family, make sure you have a good secure hold on your baby.
Babies Cry - it's ok - Sometimes during a flight, babies cry and it's ok. This is where having plenty of toys and distractions will help alleviate a stressful situation. Keep your calm and start trying your "distractions" toys, snacks, a bottle. If your child takes a pacifier use it during take off and landing to help alleviate any ear pain your baby may experience.
*Bring your baby's favorite small toy, stuffed animal, or blanket
Remember - this is an exciting new adventure for your family! The most important thing is to remember to allow yourself a lot of extra time at the airport. Not being in a rush will ensure a great beginning to a stress free flight!
Happy travels!
Some carry on suggestions:
*Disposable diapers and wipes - bring enough for double your travel time in case of delay. Cloth diapers are not practical if your flight is delayed as you may not be able to carry soiled diapers in your diaper bag.
*Formula/Breast Milk/baby food - The new "squeezable" food packets are light and easy to pack in your carry on bag. Don't forget your cheerios and teething biscuits!
*Favorite Toy & Blanket - Helpful during your entire trip.
*Bring a NEW toy - sometimes if your baby is fussy, introducing a new toy your child has never seen will help to calm and distract baby.
*TWO extra sets of clothing for your baby - and an extra set for you! There is a high chance you may need to change your baby's clothing more than once and you might need to change your shirt. Bring a plastic bag for soiled clothing.
*Sanitizer wipes and hand sanitizer for you - there may be instances where you cannot wash your hands. Sanitizer wipes are also handy to wipe down the arm rests, window, and seat tray surrounding your baby.
What are your carry on suggestions? Comment below!
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