Sunday, May 29, 2011

Doing the Green Thing

Today we did our green deed for the day. We decided to walk to the grocery store instead of taking the car. Both Superboy and Supertot enjoyed the ride, the fresh air, and the conversation. We counted cars, saw construction, looked at freshly cut grass and pushed the button to make the crosswalk go. What more could little boys want.

I though I would share a list of ideas on how we can get kids to appreciate nature and help instill green practices at the same time. Here's what I came up with (please feel free to add your own in the comments).
  • Build a birdhouse for your backyard.
  • Start composting.
  • Build a garden together and eat the vegetables you grow.
  • Use recyclable batteries in your toys (or better yet, take out the batteries and use your imagination).
  • Plant a tree.
  • Take a hike and help clean up garbage on your route.
  • Go fishing.
  • Visit the farmer's market and buy local fresh meat and produce.
  • Learn about the different trees and flowers in your neighbourhood.
  • Visit the library or buy previously loved books from thrift stores.
  • Pack litter-less lunches and use reusable containers for picnics.
  • Walk whenever possible.
  • Get outside.
Here is a list of websites to check out if you are looking for some ideas of being green with your kids this summer.

Saturday, May 28, 2011

Know the Signs of Drowning

We are off to swimming lessons today. Supertot loves the water but Superboy...not so much.

It made me remember that I had not yet read the article from Mario Vittone's website: Drowning Doesn't Look Like Drowining. This is a must read for anyone planning on being around the water this summer.

According to Vittone, Drowning is the number two cause of death for children 15 years and younger (after motor vehicle accidents). Of the approximately 750 children who will drown next year, about 375 of them will do so within 25 yards of a parent or other adult. In ten percent of those drownings, the adult will actually watch them do it, having no idea it is happening (source: CDC). - SCARY!

Drowning doesn't look like your typical drowning that you see on tv. Know the signs, read the article, then go hug your children and tell them you love them.

~ Beth-Ann

Friday, May 27, 2011

Finger Paint without the Mess!

Hop on over to Dilly-Dali Art to learn an ingenious way to finger paint without the mess. Did I mention that I love contact paper? (Ooo...new idea for a blog post.)

~Beth-Ann

Weekend Reading

My pre-schooler son attends Montessori School and his toddler brother is starting in the Fall. As a family, we are extremely happy with our choice. It fits well with our family and the boys' personalities.
I picked up this book last week and I am determined to finish it by the end of the weekend. We already implement many of Maria Montessori's teachings in our home but are looking for new ideas.
I will keep you updated!

Just remember: "Never do for a child what he is capable of doing for himself."

~ Beth-Ann

Welcome to chaos!

Climbing, running, jumping, airplane noises, hugs, drawing, painting, imagining, chatting, creating...life with two boys has been more than I ever imagined.

The inspiration for this blog came from Superboy who said:
"Don't worry Mommy. If you are in trouble, I'll save you because I am a super hero."
(Boys always have their Momma's backs!)

It is here that I wish to share with you our learning journey. Things that we do, or want to do, that are just too fun not to share.

So come along, be inspired and have fun.

~ Beth-Ann