12/23/2009

From Screen to...Green?

As the holidays approach, screen time is inevitable, but why not let the kids learn a little something, too?

----

When it comes to kids and computers, you may be torn between handing over the mouse and keyboard, or shuffling Junior outside to get back to nature. Never fear—there exists a balance and we’ll show you where to start.
1. National Geographic Kids has been around since 1975. An interactive and appealing mix of articles, games, videos and activities for kids that focus on wildlife, science, technology, and world wonders, this site will have you thinking, too.
2. The Washington State Department of Ecology sorts out the nitty gritty recycling details, and includes some fun games to challenge you both.
3. The US Department of Energy features Tinker Bell guiding kids through some educational activities, including real action items for the home the kids can do together.
4. Holiday appropriate Treetures teaches us how important trees are to our environment. Seattle’s Saving Water Partnership features a nifty game to give kids—and parents—tips about household water conservation. Upon completion, they learn how much water they saved, rank their high score, and can print out winner’s certificates and an at-home checklist. 4.
5. Let’s wrap up with Kidsrgreen—a clever site that has games, songs, and links to even more sites for next time.
NOTE:  The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) considers computer time screentime too. Guidelines and resources are available from the AAP’s SafetyNet site.

This post appeared in Red Tricycle 12-21-2009.

12/10/2009

The Sweetness of Christmas -- Bonus, no calories!

You know it -- another goodie from Seattle's Red Tricycle. This twin-friendly event is especially fun for those that just feel overwhelmed with getting the kids in and out of the car. For this trip to Candy Cane Lane, you can all stay buckled and warm.

--
Tree decorated? Check. Gifts bagged and tagged? Check. Next on the list? An evening drive filled with fantasy-like holiday light sightings with the family. Seattle is famous for a Ravenna neighborhood called—what else—Candy Cane Lane. A holiday essential since the 1940s, this fantastic neighborhood Christmas light display is located on NE Park Road, off 20th Avenue NE and Ravenna Boulevard, near Ravenna Park. Make a night of it—stop at nearby University Village for some coffee, hot cocoa and winter treats before heading off for either a drive or walking tour. Virtually every home in this area is adorned with every type of Christmas decoration imaginable — think holiday music, lights-a-plenty, sleighs, reindeer and usually a large display of mechanical decorations in the traffic circle island. We hear Santa makes surprise appearances periodically. Traffic flows in a one-way direction, and back-ups normally last only a few minutes. It is also possible to park and meander through the displays, so grab those parkas just in case. The festivities start this Saturday, December 12, and run through the holidays from 4 p.m. until 11 p.m.daily. If you are feeling like a slightly less crowded event, Seattle’s Olympic Manor (Start at Northwest 85th Street and 23rd Avenue Northwest) boasts a similar but much more spread out array of fantastically decked out homes. For a hilltop view from afar, hit Queen Anne’s Kerry Park Viewpoint— gaze down upon city and holiday glitter, including the Space Needle’s topper.

12/08/2009

The Colors of Christmas

Holidays, especially if you have more than one child, can make you start seeing dollar signs and shuddering at the thought of spending even one more cent. I wrote about this for Red Tricycle this week and had a lot of fun with my own kids coming up with ways to make our holidays greener. I hope you do, too.

------------

You may be dreaming of a white Christmas, but when it comes to a holiday so full of buying, wrapping, decorating and yes, waste, let’s take a minute to think Green. This doesn’t have to mean skimping on the goodies. Let’s start with the tree—while re-using an artificial tree works for some, you can also teach the kids about sustainability by buying and decorating a beautiful, living tree. Kid-friendly Molbak’s Garden and Home will help you decide on a perfect tree, with advice on potted-year-round, or plantable options. Collect recycled or handmade decorations — kids will love creating garlands of berries or leaves. LED lights use far less energy than traditional ones, and you can even get solar lights. Next, the gifts. Host a toy swap playdate, and enlist the kids’ help fashioning reusable giftwrap from organic linens. Of course, new gifts aren’t taboo, but consider environmentally friendly, kid-safe products—check Top Ten Toys for great ideas.  Instead of sending out cards, consider caroling together to a select group of friends’ houses. For holiday parties, turn to recycled or compostable place settings, and locally grown, organic edibles. If you didn’t get a chance to hit a local tree farm, or you’ve already picked up that pre-cut tree, never fear. Both King County and the City of Seattle offer Treecycling. Wrap up the holidays with an educational trip to a farm that practices green farming, such as Carnation Tree Farm, to learn first hand about recycling your tree.

12/03/2009

Summer memories, from Lakes to Ice Cream

You may think of the 164th exit on I-5 as home to Wal-Mart, and with multiple kids, that might be a smart bet for Diapers and more. But think again, my latest Red Tricycle blurb shows some other super-kid-friendly options!

--

If winter has you feeling a tad cooped up, yearning for those summer days you spent lingering by the lakes, we’ve got a perfect solution.  Pack up the kids and head to Lynnwood’s Martha Lake neighborhood. First stop, Martha Lake Park. This often-overlooked gem features a serene fishing dock, as well as boardwalks through wetlands where the kids can feed the ducks. Plenty of parking borders the fully fenced play area. Work up an appetite and then cross the street to mom-owned Kidz-N-Coffee. This recently-opened cafe provides affordable on-site childcare for tots while grown-ups sip espresso, snack on goodies, and maybe even get some online holiday shopping done—mention Red Tricycle to save a buck off the hourly rate! Little ones will enjoy kid-friendly fare at pint-sized tables. We love that Kidz-N-Coffee allows PEPS groups or private parties to make reservations ahead of time. Mark your calendars for Saturday, Dec 19th, when Kidz-N-Coffee has their holiday party—enjoy a visit with Santa, pictures and art projects. Refreshed and ready for more adventures? Teach the kids about gardening and winter plants at nearby Emery’s Garden. Featuring classes and seminars on winter favorites such as wreath making, container gardening and holiday bow making, you just might end up with some holiday gifts! As you wrap up your lake adventure, hit one of the many drive-thru espresso stands peppering the Martha Lake area. Hot Shots espresso tops the list, featuring not just coffee drinks, but also delicious ice-cream, making for a summery trip down memory lane.

---

Julie and KidzNCoffee is really a fan of multiple kids, and is expecting her second next year!

12/01/2009

Time to hit the Tree Farms

I had a lot of fun searching for tree farms, while writing this piece for Red Tricycle. There are many farms in our area, so I hope you'll let me know what other favorites are out there!

-----------

Whether you celebrate a tree-decorating holiday, or just want some good old fashioned fun with the kids, a tree farm is sure to have something for all. The Northwest is peppered with fantastic farmlands, and we’ve highlighted a few favorites. First, there’s the centrally located Christmas Creek Farm. Just 30 minutes from both Seattle and the Eastside, you’ll find it well worth the drive. This quaint farm boasts Santa in a sleigh, and free cider or cocoa around the bonfire. Seattle parents also rave about Trinity Tree Farms, nestled on a hilltop in Issaquah. Their new train rides are a surefire hit. Take some photos near the antique fire engine for some adorably quaint holiday cards. For a fun and educational twist, head down south to Tree’s n Bees—an Auburn farm that also features honeybees year-round. Let the kids frolic in the play area with Mrs. Claus while you pick up some holiday gifts—homemade honey’s always a hit. Feel like heading north? You won’t want to miss hay rides and free candy canes at Holiday Forest. Still yearning for more? Visit the Puget Sound Christmas Tree Association—a non-profit organization that organizes all our local farms, as well as the Pacific Northwest Christmas Tree Association.

---

Twin-friendly options exisit for all of these farms -- big bathrooms, double-stroller paths and more.

11/24/2009

A Castle, more toys, and pizza

When it comes to fun, we don't limit our searches to just Seattle. Parents of multiples in Seattle, or closeby, have a sure bet when it comes to a park I wrote about for Red Tricycle. Hope you enjoy the read, and the visit.

--


No matter when the urge for a ‘Sunday drive’ hits, the entire family will love a trek up to beautiful Saint Edward State Park, located on the shore of Lake Washington in Kenmore. This parent fave sits surrounded by majestic trees and quaint brick and stone buildings. Kids of all ages will race to the brilliant playground, constructed in 2003. You’ll discover two all-wood play areas, including a totally-fenced area for kids up to age five. Older siblings will enjoy neighboring climbing/hiding structures with a medieval castle theme. Take time to stroll along one of several easy hiking trails winding through the woods, or down near the beach. Next stop, a short drive over to Snapdoodle Toys – they’ve got aisles of fresh-for-the-holidays toys for you and the kids to meander through. You’re sure to find a few holiday gifts in their enormous selection — from indoor, rainy-day goodies like art supplies and books, to get-moving gadgets including Wheely Bugs and Prince Lionheart bikes. Sneak a peak in Snapdoodle’s DoodleZone –a room you can reserve for birthday parties. Grab a free latte or cup of tea at Snapdoodle, or a full meal at neighboring Mia Roma, or local-favorite TaiHo. No time to sit? Plan ahead and give Kenmore’s Jet City Pizza a ring — pick one up to take home (hint: don’t miss the free pizza coupon on their Web site).

11/14/2009

Go West, West is Best!




pg
When the sun shines, we all flock to Alki Beach, but West Seattle is scattered with plenty to do on cooler days as well. Start off by visiting West Seattle’s fantastic Fairmount Playground. Boasting a wide array of cool metal climbers atop a gravel base, with plenty of fields for ball chasing, you’ll burn off that morning energy quickly. If the rainclouds are looming, plan ahead and schedule a free trial class at the new Little Gym, which just opened this month. Ready for some tasty treats? Head to the nearby Coffee to a Tea With Sugar where the kids can romp in the toy area. Be sure to take advantage of the printable ‘free cupcake’ coupon online. Treat yourself to something scrumptious, from bakery treats to salads and wraps. Of course, organic coffees and teas await to perk up parents, too. Next, work off those sweet treats with a short walk to Curious Kidstuff. You’ll knock out some holiday shopping while the kids test out new toys at this West Seattle favorite for eco-friendly playthings– every toy in the shop has a USA General Conformity Certificate. They also offer Art classes and a fabulous space for a birthday party, so be sure to explore the entire store.

West Seattle is a parent-and-kid friendly area, whatever the weather. I wrote about some of our favorite spots for Red Tricycle. Check them out, you won't be sorry!
----------

11/11/2009

Toys Toys Toys!

We can never get enough of toys for our twins, triplets or kids in general. I wrote about a new annex to one of my favorite stores, for Red Tricycle, and wanted to make sure all of you saw the news!

--

Now that the holiday season is upon us, is there anything better than a family-owned eco-conscious toy store packed with all our favorite playthings? You bet—when the parent-owners open up a second shop. Izilla Toys has launched a new Wallingford Center annex, which made its debut last week. Izilla tells us this is a “holiday annex”— what better reason to tackle that holiday gift list? This location isn’t a permanent one yet, but we think Izilla will receive such a warm welcome, that they will keep it open year round. Stocked with oodles of the same enchanting goodies you’ll find at the other location — Playmobil, PlanToys, Haba and more. We were tickled to see the Wallingford Izilla boasts a huge collection of Uglydolls. Of course, they have some traditional dolls, too, and they’ve stocked up on wooden toys galore. Toy selections satisfy kids of all ages — from wee ones to your near-tweens. Stockings will need stuffing soon, and Izilla already has plans in the works for Santa photos. Wallingford Center is transforming one of their outdoor patios into a Christmas tree and wreath store — a perfect backdrop for those not-yet-in-the-works holiday card photos. So get ho-ho-hopping to Izilla!

--

What other toy stores in Seattle do you love?

11/05/2009

Treats for your Sweeties

With Winter almost here, I've been longing for those summer treats. I wrote about a new favorite of mine recently, for Red Tricycle, and wanted to share it.

----

What’s sometimes messy, changes daily, but isn’t a diaper? Have we “peaked” your curiosity? Better grab the kids and skedaddle over to Peaks Frozen Custard. It’s as easy as 1-2-3 —literally. First, choose one of three flavors, with chocolate and vanilla always being a staple. The third flavor changes daily, ranging from Crunchy Vanilla Fudge Royale to Lavender. Next, chose a size, and third, if you feel adventurous, select a topping or two to crown the creation. Or, let the Peaks’ staff create something whimsically appetizing to suit your mood. Naturally, you can have your caffeine, too, and get a fix at the coffee bar. Lure the kiddies over to a fully-stocked play area with quaint toys, books, a kid-sized table and chairs, and a real wooden rocking moose! (Bring your laptop, as free wi-fi is a bonus.)
Think we’re nuts to be touting frozen treats in November? Think again—warm, comfy chairs, a fireplace, cozy couches and toasty coffee drinks will keep you coming back all season. And to make up for all that decadence, Peaks takes care of the environment and our community by using local produce and products, compostable containers and energy-saving appliances and lighting. Our favorite? The recycled doors on the bathrooms! Visit their Web site calendar and plan ahead!

-----




11/03/2009

Don't just live, Thrive

November is here, and you might be feeling a little overdone just thinking about the upcoming Thanksgiving holidays. I've got some ways to lighten the month up a little, and the first is a short summary of a local shop I wrote about for Red Tricycle.

--------

When Little One started solids, you pureed concoctions of the freshest organic produce, but now those delicacies been replaced by Goldfish and Fruit roll-ups. Recommit yourself to a healthy lifestyle, which can be made easier with regular visits to Thrive cafĂ©. This locally owned shop in Ravenna (1026 NE 65th Street, #A-102 ) promises to re-spark your interest in all things green, with a menu brimming with vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, wheat-free, and dairy-free items. Sip some freshly minted water from the cooler and shop for raw nuts and seeds from the bulk bins, or sip a smoothie (Coconutty and the flavored Creamsicle varieties tempt our tastebuds) and peruse the eco-friendly totes. Have time to sit with Junior? Then dig into a salad or a warm grain bowl. But Thrive doesn’t stop with instant gratification. Dreading the overindulgence of the coming holidays? Revisit your menu items by educating yourself with a class at Thrive—Have a Rawsome Holiday, and Pies and Cakes, both coming up soon! They also offer private tours and field trips, and even would love to visit local schools. This might be your ticket to showing your new preschooler, or your PEPS group, that there’s more to life than O-shaped cereal. Don’t just live, Thrive!

------

10/29/2009

Turning over a new leaf? Try Maple.

The rain this week made me think of one of my favorite areas of town for rainy days. I wrote about it for Red Tricycle. I hope you find some useful info here!
------
Fall is here — ready to turn over a new leaf? Try Maple. Seattle’s often overlooked Maple Leaf neighborhood features several must-dos for tots. Start at Maple Leaf Park and playground. No soggy wood chips here — brilliantly layered gravel simply drains the raindrops and keeps kiddos dry if they take a tumble. With a mix of retro steel climber toys and newer gadgets, this park has something for all.


Next stop, a short walk up to Cloud City Coffee. Its open floor plan, comfy couches, free wi-fi and kiddie play area make Cloud City a perfect place to recharge. Enjoy their wide range of tasty kid and adult menu items. No time to sit? We love the coffee honor bar, where drip coffee is just a buck. Green tip: Bring your own travel mug, drop in a dollar, and head out for more adventuring. Get craft items at Beadworld or stop by the Northwest Puppet Center for a weekend puppet show, or a weekday Puppet Museum tour. Ready for a full meal? Gluten-free and kid-sized pasta options available at Cafe Piccolo, or try Maple Leaf Grill.

10/27/2009

Get a Move On....

I was sorting through the attic in search of some old dress-up clothes, and found a few boxes we never unpacked when we bought our home here 12 years ago. This made me want to share a little eco-friendly blurb I did for Red Tricycle. Hopefully you, or someone you know, can benefit from these Seattle solutions!

---------


Whether you are moving next door, over the bridge, or across the country, preparing to bundle up those toys and treasures you’ve gathered over the years can be a nightmare. Shuddering at the thought of bug-infested boxes your S.O. picked up off Craigslist? Seattle now has not one, but two solutions to this pesky problem — enter Frogbox and karmaboxx.
Reusable plastic Frogboxes offer eco-friendly, shiny green moving containers, totes and wardrobes, while blue-hued karmaboxxes made from recycled materials are regularly disinfected and reused hundreds of times. Both companies let you order online and deliver boxes ready for you to pack — no assembly required. And talk about full-service—they’ll even pick them up at your new digs after the move.
In keeping true to their names, Frogbox donates 1% of gross revenues to frog habitat restoration, including our very own Woodland Park Zoo, and karmaboxx donates 2% to a variety of community-suggested local charities.
So, when your kids take over the home office or your start-up begins expanding, set a good example by enlisting these companies for your corporate needs. Motivation bonus: You can’t delay unpacking knowing the boxes need to be returned. Clean up those carbon footprints and get a move on—literally.
http://www.frogbox.com
http://www.karmaboxx.com/

---

10/23/2009

Green Halloween

That time of year is upon us, and every year for the last few years, I've been trying to spread the word about a local trend turned nation-wide. Below is a blurb I contributed to Red Tricycle, and I hope it helps make your Halloween 'greener'...

---
For many of us, Halloween conjures up memories of orange and black decor, and sticky-sweet treats. True, Halloween is a holiday heavy on sugar, not to mention waste, but what if it didn’t have to be? Thanks to Seattle-area’s Corey Colwell-Lipson, founder of Green Halloween®, (greenhalloween.org), Seattle is abuzz with ways to make your Halloween a little easier on the environment. Start by escorting your goblins to one of Seattle’s thrift stores—or visit a virtual swap (http://www.mamaswap.com/) to pick out their haunting attire. Feeling crafty? Help Junior whip up a handmade costume, from, say, treasures in the kitchen junk drawer or remnants of your old costumes.
Green Halloween’s Web site offers many resources, including their own marketplace (new this year), where you can purchase costumes, decorations, treats, and more. There are also downloadable action kits to help spread the word. One option is  to organize a playdate to visit a participating local vendor, such as Bellevue’s Whole Foods.
Like the idea, but can’t give up the treats? Tasty organic lollipops (http://www.yummyearth.com/) are better for children and the planet and some come in compostable wrappers. A complete list of greener treats is available too, natch.
RRR tip: When your kids toss aside this year’s costumes, pack them up in reusable bags (http://www.reusablebags.com/), and have a recycled but complete costume ready to hand down to the next little ghoul.
--------------

We were lucky enough to run into Corey at this year's Zoo Pumpkin Prowl! Still a few days left to see her!




Pumpkin Party

This time of year, we are bombarded with Fall and Halloween ideas for the kids. Hard to pick, isn't it?

Do you love the idea of picking pumpkins and Fall-ish photo ops amongst the Halloween and October images you see everywhere, but hate the idea of a full-day event and way too much slogging through mud and bales of hay? Enter Fairbank Farm -- the perfect solution for all your pumpkin patch needs, just north of Seattle. This farm is very small, easily accessible, and for those of us with more than one child -- very stroller and yes, even double-stroller friendly! Wide cement trails wind through the entire area.

Fairbank features affordable weekday tours (minimum 8 students), led by wonderful staff who speak to the children in their most preschool-teacheresque voices, asking simple questions and providing tiny bits of kid-friendly information. Weekends are open for anyone to visit.

The day I visited the Farm, we ventured through animals a plenty, petting some, feeding others, and even saw newborn piglets!

The tour ends in a 'pumpkin patch', which is a delightful field strewn with tiny tot-friendly pumpkins just the right size to carry home and carve, or simply display as a happy memory of this event. Did I mention you'll be home in time for nap?

10/22/2009

Ravenna is ready for us!

One of my favorite multiple-friendly areas of Seattle is Ravenna. I wrote about it for Red Tricycle. I hope you find some useful info here!

-----

Get revved up and ready to romp through Ravenna with your kids. The renovated Ravenna-Eckstein park & playground (6535 Ravenna Ave. NE) is equipped with the standards, but we think you’ll be tickled by bonus features. There are now ample cement paths for tots to trike before the sunshine becomes scarce. Lure older siblings with the elaborate rock-climbing structure towering over a set of ‘big kid’ swings a few yards away from the littles’ area. Tip: Show your S.O the pix you’ve snapped on your cell while Junior plays, and you’re sure to get some “me” time while he or she takes the kids to do a little climbing of their own. When pesky fall drizzles threaten, head indoors to the Ravenna-Eckstein Community Center; the entire playroom has been renovated to include a climber with slides, and oodles of ride-on cars, motorcycles and trikes—perfect for the 0-5 crowd. Starving yet? Zip over to Bagel Oasis, or grab some tasty Mediterranean fare at Vios Cafe, nestled conveniently in the back of Third Place Books.  Let the toddlers snack and then dive into the enclosed, toy-filled oasis while you sip your espresso. Vios features a Kids Meze plate with grilled chicken, hummus and fresh fruit. Visiting on Saturday? Enjoy story time at Third Place.

10/10/2009

A Fifth Avenue for the rest of us

The Seattle rain made me want to share a little piece I did for Red Tricycle (parenting newsletter) that happens to sum up a few of my favorite things to do in Seattle, rain or shine. Right along 5th Avenue...(ok, so it is really 5th Avenue NE), we have a ton of fun things to do with our kids. Of course, for this blog, I'll stress the double-stroller friendly bathrooms in both the library and community centers!

---

Time to tote a tot or two up north -- at least as far as Northgate Park, where you'll find ample parking and oodles to do in the threesome combo of Library, Community Center and fantastic fenced park. Whether you've just dropped off the big sis at school, or if you've arrived with the whole gang, there's plenty to entertain and delight.

Those oh-so-grown up preschoolers can show off their daredevil skills by tightrope-walking along a low cement wall that winds cleverly amongst smaller play structures, a sandbox and bigger climbing areas and slides. Should the kiddos stray, you'll feel safe with the mostly fenced area and sturdy new play structures. Ample swings for both babes and big kids round out the adventure. Look both ways and across the street to Northgate Mall's choice of food fare, from Red Robin burgers to Bluefin Sushi's fantastic kid-friendly buffet! Stop by Barnes & Noble, Motherhood Maternity or Toys "R" Us if you’ve got time before the kids’ nap. Tip: hit the drive-thru Starbucks on your way home, and you'll be ready to tackle that pesky laundry pile.

Bonus: Northgate Library and Community Center both offer indoor story times and kids playroom adventures on those drizzly mornings.

-----

10/07/2009

Get ready for an EEK-O-friendly Halloween

Halloween should be fun, but every year it gets scarier--for parents and the planet. From the discovery of lead in fake teeth and candy, to chemicals in costumes, to the garbage left in the holiday's wake, it's a wonder more of us haven't given up the festivities and spent October 31 watching It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown.
The good news is, there are loads of child- and earth-friendly alternatives to the usual Halloween fare.
The most important point when planning to green up any holiday or celebration, especially those involving children, is to get their "buy-in." And of course, your approach makes all the difference. Telling kids, "We're going green this Halloween--that means, no candy," isn't helpful. What can be is a discussion about the challenges that Halloween brings. Obviously, what you say (or don't), depends on the age of your children. But helping them to see the wider ramifications of their actions can help make transitioning to healthier choices more appealing or at least understandable.
Many kids are learning about eco-issues in school. They often want to do something about them, but need guidance on where to begin. Talking to them about the excess and waste associated with Halloween (and all holidays and celebrations) and discussing how they can make a difference, may spark their altruism and inspire them to act in positive ways.
A great way to start a discussion is to list each aspect of Halloween (costumes, treats, decor and activities), and brainstorm child- and earth-friendly choices to what you've done in the past. Then, encourage your kids to choose one or two of the ideas to implement this year. After Halloween, talk about what worked, what didn't and what you'll do next year.
Costumes
In the "olden days," (the eighties?), many kids made their costumes, often with help from parents. Making the costume was actually an enjoyable, bonding activity. Today, millions of people spend millions of dollars on costumes that are made from non-sustainable materials (like petroleum), that are worn once, then discarded. 
But there are earth-friendlier alternatives. If you usually buy costumes, consider:
  • Making them. Kids are incredibly gifted and creative when we encourage them. There are almost no costumes that cannot be handmade. If your children are stuck on turning a popular TV or movie character into a costume, brainstorm how you can make it happen with items you already own or can get at no cost by borrowing or making. Be sure to check online for ideas.
  • Purchasing costumes made from more eco-friendly materials or at least not from plastics. Choose cotton, organic cotton, silk or hemp, for instance. Unfortunately, these alternatives are not yet widely available, but if you're interested in them, ask local stores to consider carrying them next year. And check at the end of this post for some great online sources.
  • Trading them. Arrange a costume swap with neighbors, check online at swap sites like Green Halloween, or see if you can interest a local child-focused organization in sponsoring a swap.
When Halloween is over, don't throw costumes away. Save them, dismantle and hold on to the "parts," trade or take them to a thrift store.
Treats and treasures
Halloween may be all about the treats, but happily, there are great alternatives that kids, when given the option, will happily embrace. You can't do much about the sweets your children receive on their foray around the neighborhood (although you can have the "Halloween Fairy" replace the confections with a wonderful gift when the children are brushing their teeth...shhhh...), but when it comes to what your family hands out, planning ahead so that you are not making a last-minute dash to the grocery store, will help you avoid limiting choices to what's on the shelves at the moment.
If you have a local natural foods store, check out their offerings. Take your kids along and choose a few items to sample if you don't normally shop there. Honey sticks are a favorite and are very inexpensive (never give honey to children under age 2). Many natural food companies make small "bars" in flavors kids love like peanut butter and chocolate. Assuming you have the time to order online, check out www.GreenHalloween.org for dozens of alternatives.
One issue that often comes up when discussing organic or green choices is cost. While it is true that many healthier items cost more, there is a simple solution. Instead of handing out fistfuls (or allowing kids to take as much as they want, which has become the norm), try this: Fill a bowl with a variety of great choices, whether sweets or "treasures" like sparkly stones, feathers (yes, kids love these), hair decorations, temporary tattoos, stickers etc. Cover the bowl with a cloth. When children come to the door, get down to their level and whisper, "At our house, we have some very, very special treats and treasures. You may now choose your favorite." Then with a flourish, whip off the cloth and let them sift. Compliment them on their choice afterwards.
If you're not yet ready to totally embrace greener treats and treasures you can still help cut down on expense and waste by choosing one of these options:
  • Put out two bowls, one with conventional candy, the other with "treasures." Let kids choose one item from either bowl.
  • Hand children whatever you are giving them. Do not allow them to take as much as they want.
  • Let older children know that unwrapped candy can be composted. 
Whatever you do this Halloween, taking time to plan and implement will make the holiday a lot less spooky!



Lynn Colwell and Corey Colwell-Lipson are mother and daughter and co-authors of Celebrate Green! Creating Eco-Savvy Holidays, Celebrations and Traditions for the Whole Family, available at www.CelebrateGreen.net 

10/01/2009

October is here! Halloween -- trick, or treat?

Fall is in the air, leaves are turning colors, and sweaters are the norm. October is a favorite in my family, but as the kids are getting older, we are finding new tips and tricks for making the month of October, and the kid-marketed Halloween, a 'holiday' for reinventing and redefining what this day means. Can we really have a 'Green Halloween'? How about a healthy one? We think we can, and we will show you how over the next week. Stay tuned.

9/30/2009

Sniffles, fevers, what to do? Oh no!

Whether this is your first child, a new sibling, or you feel you're an old veteran with twins or more, it can still be trying when noses start running, fevers start spiking, and Little One just isn't up to par. Relax, and rest assured, that is part of the deal.


I'd like to share what Teacher Tom had to say about this -- I hope it makes you feel better, at least in spirit!

9/29/2009

Recycling Baby Gear

Whether you are shopping for your first baby, your first set of twins, or other siblings, it is possible (and FUN!) to purchase gear used in the Seattle area, without having to spend a lot of time or money.

We are interested in where you go, what you buy and how. Thrift Stores? Stores like Goodwill and Value Village? Or are you a Craigslist or Freecycle junkie?

Follow us on  Twitter and let us know!
 

9/28/2009

Prowl with your little Pumpkins at Woodland Park Zoo




Pumpkin Prowl is coming!
Presented by Bartell Drugs
October 23, 24 and 25, 2009
5:00 – 8:00 p.m.


Tickets go on sale at all Bartell Drugs and at the zoo beginning October 5!
Three howling nights of treats await your little goblins at our annual fall fundraising event. Artfully carved pumpkins and live entertainment spark each evening and there will be plenty of goodies for children of all ages, too! Be sure to check out Zoomazium transformed into Boomazium!
Trick-or-treaters are encouraged to wear costumes and bring reusable bags from home to collect their treats!





Buy treats at PCC Natural Markets and support Woodland Park Zoo. This year’s PCC bulk Halloween mix will contain chocolates from Green & Black and Equal Exchange, along with some delicious bites from Larabar. Proceeds from the purchase of the mix will directly benefit Woodland Park Zoo. Come see the PCC Kid Picks Mobile at the zoo's Pumpkin Prowl event on October 25.
Visit the Pumpkin Prowl page for more info!

9/25/2009

Seattle Twin Clothing Sale -- not just for Twins

Children's Clothing and Equipment Fall Sale

Saturday, September 26, 2009
9:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Aurora Church of the Nazarene
1900 N 175th Street
Shoreline, WA 98133

Only cash and checks accepted

9/24/2009

Tylenol Recall

You may have heard that McNeil Consumer Healthcare (the makers of TYLENOL®) is voluntarily recalling certain lots of Children's and Infants' TYLENOL® liquid products that were manufactured between April, 2008 and June, 2008. All products manufactured met internal specifications. However, the company is implementing this recall because during this period, an unused portion of one inactive ingredient did not meet all quality standards. Therefore, as a precautionary measure, it was decided to recall all Children's and Infants' TYLENOL® liquid products listed below, which were made during this time.

Parents and caregivers who have questions or concerns should contact their child's health care provider or our consumer call center at 1-800-962-5357 (available Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time). Consumers can find the lot numbers on the bottom of the box containing the liquid product and also on the sticker that surrounds the product bottle. The lot numbers of the affected products are listed below.

These actions do not apply to Children's TYLENOL® Meltaways and Junior Strength TYLENOL® Meltaways. The voluntary recall applies only to select lots of Children's and Infants' TYLENOL® liquid products.

Recalled Products - Full List


http://www.tylenol.com/page.jhtml?id=tylenol/news/subpchildinfantnews.inc

9/01/2009

Jump, Stretch, Play at SGA!

Seattle Gymnastics Academy opens a new location in dear old Ballard. Yipeee!

Offering classes of course, they also offer a drop-in indoor playtime in the gym. Expose your young ones, ages 1-5, to gymnastics as you escort them through the gym. Read about the rules here.

And check out what the gym looks like, in progress!