Category — Parenting

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Confessions of a Mean Mommy weighs in on a new study citing the negative effects of helicopter parenting.
• Why do we blog? My Baby Naturally explores the motivating factors behind keeping an online journal.
• Most parents are experts at giving, but knowing how to receive is equally important, says the Uncommon Voice.
• Fresh off the heels of our babywearing post, Just Ask Baby answers whether to sling or not to sling.
• Got some old newspaper lying around? Make Music Making Momma’s musical shakers.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• We talk a lot about greening your home—but what about your workplace? The Green Phone Booth shares a collection of tips and ideas.
• Just in time for spring! Mom Go Green reports that bike-friendly routes are now available on Google Maps.
• Green Talk shares an easy, all-natural way to keep your garden healthy (and it’s not compost!).
• Good news for kids (and adults) with peanut allergies: Oral treatment may soon be available, AllergyMoms reports.
• Tech Savvy Mama talks up SciGirls, a new TV show that aims to get more girls interested in math, science, and engineering.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Whether your kid receives money in the form of a birthday gift from Grandma, a reward for good grades, or a weekly allowance, the time is always right to help him learn how to budget. Some tips:

• Give him a reason. If your child has been eyeing a new video game or soccer ball, help him find incremental ways he can save up for it (by earning $2 for each night he helps fold laundry, for instance). Show him his progress by drawing a poster with a thermometer that “fills up” as he gets closer to his goal, suggests Mackey McNeill, a personal finance specialist.
• Match savings. Big-ticket items might require a long-term savings plan, which can be hard for younger kids to grasp. If it would take more than a few months for your child to save up for something on her own, try matching her savings to keep her motivated, suggest Bryan Link, CEO of the financial planning group SimpliFi.
• Be a role model. Tell your child about the financial goals you’re working toward, like a backyard pool or family vacation, Link says. If you share your savings plan with her and track your progress together, she’ll be more likely to save money for her own goals.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

One week closer to spring! Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Cookies for breakfast? You bet. Hip Mountain Mama makes hers with whole wheat flour, raisins, almonds, and flaxseeds.
• File under: Funny. Check out “10 Things I’ve Learned Since Becoming a mom” from The Healthy Moms.
• TheSmartMama explains why mold can be harmful—plus how to keep it from growing in your home (ick!).
• Too many catalogs are bad for the environment and an (organized) living space. Big Green Purse helps you cut the clutter.
• On our must-see list? Eco documentary, Addicted to Plastic, thanks to Nature Moms‘ review.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• SouleMama takes a moment on Fridays to snap a photo of whatever’s happening in the present moment—and appreciate it!
• It might be March, but Waldorf Mama knows winter isn’t over yet. That’s why she knitted a pair of amazing pink mittens for her daughter.
• The Tranquil Parent reviews a book that teaches kids as young as three about chores and allowance. Check it out!
• Looking for ways to conserve water? Mom Goes Green has ideas for reusing your gray water.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• How do movies and TV influence our idea of what it’s like to have a baby? Crunchy Domestic Goddess explores popular culture’s influence on childbirth.
• And speaking of TV: if your family’s in the market for a new one, check out these planet-friendly buying tips from Green and Clean Mom.
• PhD in Parenting questions McDonald’s sponsorship of the Olympics—and how it’s influencing kids.
• One common relationship challenge? Giving partners the attention they need (despite everyone’s busy schedules!). The Tranquil Parent explores.
• Uh-oh! Healthy Green Moms shares her first experience with the dreaded croup.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Cut the carbon footprint of your to-go coffee cup with a DIY cup sleeve. The Big Green Giraffe shares a tutorial—as well as her cute results!
• Natural as Possible Mom tries to reduce her family’s paper use. See how she’s doing!
• Ever get skeeved out when your kid uses a public restroom? Raising a Green Bean reviews an eco-friendly solution.
• A Mama’s Blog attempts cleans the playroom with her sons, then tries to explain the meaning of the word “pigsty.” Funny!
• Healthy Happy Hip Parenting rediscovers her beauty with a fun photo shoot.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• You’re probably aware of the importance of purchasing fair trade coffee and chocolate. Tree Hugging Family asks, what about bananas?
• Recycle Your Day’s taking Meatless Mondays to the next level with raw meals for her baby.
• There’s a new baby tub out that makes bath time a snap, says Green Mama’s Pad. Break out the bubbles!
• Excess dietary sodium isn’t just a concern for grown-ups; PhD in Parenting says many baby and toddler foods are also too high in salt.
• GreenStyleMom whips up winter salad with roasted beets and tangerines. Yum!

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

We’re really excited about KIWI’s 2010 Next Great Young Chef contest, our search for the next generation of culinary experts, so this week we’re featuring cooking-related posts we love from some of our favorite mom blogs.

• Real Mom Kitchen’s Super Bean Burritos are perfect fare for Meatless Mondays (or any day of the week!).
• Looking for a fun after-school treat? Try the UnGourmet’s toasted coconut and chocolate chip cookies.
• 3 Kids and Us makes butter-browned potatoes that’ll hit the spot on a cold night.
• Why buy bread when it’s so easy to make your own? Check out Milk and Honey Mommy’s whole wheat sandwich loaf.
• Tomorrow’s Groundhog’s Day! Warm up with Gourmet Mom on-the-Go’s Groundhog Hot Cocoa.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Photo by SOCIALisBETTER, flickr

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Green and Clean Mom explores the idea of reforming the Toxic Substance Control Act, which could save $5 billion a year in health care costs.
• Want to slow down? Mama-Om shares three ways she practices peace and finds self-connection.
• Enviromom reduces waste with reusable baby wipes.
• The next time your kid wants a new plaything, check out Green SAHM’s four toys you can make rather than buy.
• A campfire in the winter? PhD in Parenting did it, and has a great picture to prove it.

Are you a mom blogger? Enter our Mom Blogger Giveaway to win a natural cold and flu care pack from Boiron!

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

I’ll admit it—once in a while, I’m guilty of taking 10 minutes to load up on mental junk food by scanning celebrity blogs. Recently, though, I actually saw a post about Angelina Jolie and her tomboy-clad, three-year-old daughter that sparked some thought: At what age does it make sense for your kid to pick out her own outfits?

By around 4 years old, a child will be able to do a decent job putting on her clothing and shoes. Her skills probably fall short, however, if she’s deciding on the outfit herself. (Think tutus or superhero capes, a mishmash of clashing patterns, shorts in the winter time…) While your little kid’s sense of fashion might be a bit embarrassing for you, most experts agree that letting children get creative with their clothing is fine. In fact, it might even be a good thing, since choosing an outfit provides another outlet for identity expression and creativity.

Next time you start stressing about the rain boots and pajama pants combo? I say, let it go. Who knows—your kid could be onto an awesome trend.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Happy New Year! This week, we’re highlighting bloggers that are participating in One Small Change. Started by Hip Mountain Mama, the project is challenging families to adopt one planet-friendly change each month leading up to Earth Day (4/22/10). Want to participate? Learn more here.

• Hip Mountain Mama’s first small change towards living greener? Cutting back on TP use with the family cloth.
• Plain and Joyful Living isn’t giving up coffee—but her family is saving energy by brewing the drink on a wood stove.
• Green Acres in the City shares some pretty pictures of the snow and her family’s first small change: Installing a low-flow shower head.
• Earthmonkey Mama’s family is cutting back on their meat consumption, opting for 2-3 veg meals each week.
• Recycling isn’t yet commonplace in Gypsy Forest’s southern Louisiana community, but it’s her family’s small change for this month.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the parent blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Attachment parenting or tough love? Crunchy Domestic Goddess weighs in on getting your little one to sleep soundly.
• Healthy Green Moms talk the benefits of raw milk, plus the controversy behind it.
• Looking for last minute holiday  crafts? Make Prairie Mama’s tree homemade ornaments.
• It’s easy to say no to blow drying your hair in the summer, but not so much in the winter. EnviroMom is looking for tips  on air drying minus the chill.
• Tree Hugging Family shares three disposable habits to beat for the new year. Add them to your list of resolutions!

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the parent blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• A Mama’s Blog shares a cute story about her son while marveling at childhood innocence.
• Would you forego toilet paper for cloth wipes? Cloth Diaper Blog explores an issue most of us have probably never thought twice about.
• If you feel like there’s no time to sleep during the holiday season, you’re not alone. But Crunchy Green Lovin’ Mom has some tips to make shut-eye come easier.
• Green Baby Guide is looking for tips that’ll help new moms avoid staying housebound with a new baby in the winter.
• PhD in Parenting weighs in on an interesting controversy over helmets and the responsibility of the media to portray bike safety.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

It seems like people do a lot of eating out this time of year. Maybe it’s the fact that cooking time gets eaten up (ha ha!) all of the holiday season bustle, or perhaps people take on a lot of big holiday cooking projects for parties and events, and therefore don’t want to spend any more time in the kitchen. Whatever the reason, I think everyone would agree that eating out with kids can be a real adventure. How to have a smooth, enjoyable meal as a family? Here, some ideas:

• Go family-friendly. This might be obvious, but its important nonetheless. Choose a restaurant that’s frequented by other families where diners are less likely to be bothered by kids that are antsy or loud.
• Bring the fun. Your kid’ll do better if she’s got something to keep her busy. Having a coloring book at the dinner table might not be the most elegant thing in the world, but it’ll make the meal that much more peaceful for you. And remember: If you bring along an electronic toy, make sure you can turn the sound off.
• Serve a pre-dinner snack. Offer your kid a cheese stick or piece of fruit before arriving to the restaurant. If she’s not starving, she’ll have more patience at the table while waiting for her food to arrive.
• Set the rules. Before you leave the house, let your kid know your expectations. Tell her you’re looking forward to having a great time out as a family, and that you hope she’ll be able to participate in the food and conversation. Let her know the consequences of breaking the rules (”If you throw food at the table, you won’t be allowed to watch your favorite TV show tonight”) and be sure to follow through.
• Start at home. Good table manners don’t magically come about in one night. Practice them at home so your kid understands that at mealtime, it’s important for her to sit in her seat, eat her food, and participate in the conversation. When she gets to a restaurant, she’ll be a pro.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the parent blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Adventures in Babywearing is promoting Blog.Bid.Hope to raise money on behalf of the Liz Logelin Foundation and Anissa Mayhew. Learn how you can help!
• Want to make your own cute baby legwarmers? Check out The Clothesline’s easy tutorial.
• Just in time for snapping all those holiday photos: Learn five techniques to take better pictures of your kid from SimpleMom.
• Mindful Momma shares her tips on seeking out the best heirloom holiday decorations. Fun!
• Kudos to the moms in Michigan who are supporting toxic chemical reform. Read all about it at Green and Clean Mom.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

If you have a baby on the way, chances are your typical “Season’s Greetings” holiday cards feel like they’re leaving something out. Like, the biggest, most exciting thing ever. You’re having a baby!

That’s why I love these clever new cards from To Be Greetings. They’re stylish and a little bit cheeky–and they celebrate the holidays and your growing family. Plus, they’re printed on FSC-certified paper, with vegetable-based inks–and the printing plant is powered by wind.

What a wonderful way to share your joy this season!

—Sarah, KIWI Editorial Director

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the parent blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Giving back is one of the best things you can do during the holidays—and throughout the year. Natural as Possible Mom shares her family’s experience of paying it forward.
• Multi-Minding Mom has some great, green holiday shopping picks. (Want more gift ideas? Check out the KIWI 2009 Best Green Toys & Gifts Guide!)
• Kids say the darndest things! Check out some laugh-out-loud quotes from Jenny ‘N John.
• Non-Toxic Kids warns that even though phthalates and lead have been banned in toys, there’s still room for concern.
• If you’ve yet to settle on a holiday greeting card, consider this one from Cool Mom Picks.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the parent blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Our first featured dad blog! Why My Hair Don’t Grow No More’s two-year-old plays a silly trick.
• Louloupink shares her ten favorite resources for nontoxic family living.
• Has your kid recently outgrown an old pair of shoes? BusyMom knows a great way to get rid of them.
• So much fun! Make and Takes transforms an ordinary plastic bowling set into a Thanksgiving turkey bowl.
• EnviroMom finds a new use for an old filing cabinet.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• There’s a Healthy Child Healthy World virtual party happening at And That’s All I’ve Got to Say About That. Check it out!
• Natural as Possible Mom has two kids that sleep great—and she shares how yours can, too.
• Do you apologize to your kids? Parenting By Trial and Error does, and she explains why.
• Yum! ReadyMom’s Best Ever Banana Muffins look delicious.
• Want to get creative with this year’s holiday cards? Try Origami Mommy’s easy tutorial for a pretty, flowery option.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Next time you need a wholesome way to distract your toddler for a few minutes, click here.

This adorable title from Barefoot Books has a catchy song to go with it, sung by the popular SteveSongs from PBS. And psst, it’s even educational—your kid will be counting pigs and cows with the farmer as he drives that tractor all around the farm. You may get the “drivin’ my tractor down a bumpy road” melody stuck in your head, but it’s so upbeat and sweet, you won’t even mind. And if you and your kid fall in love with this bouncy tune, you can buy the book and CD straight from Barefoot Books.

-Sarah, KIWI editorial director

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Crunchy Domestic Goddess grapples with BPA in canned goods, and says it might be time to cook her own beans.
• Any mom with more than one kid is knows all about sibling rivalry—but what about with twins? Here’s what The Bean Blog has to say.
• Wow! Waldorf Mama’s photos capture the beauty of autumn.
• It’s the simple things that count: Muthering Heights finds joy in the everyday.
• Mom Goes Green says gather your bottles and cans! November 15th is America Recycles Day.

-Marygrace, KIWI staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Pampers disposables give babies a better night’s sleep than cloth diapers? We’re not sure we believe it, and neither is The Cloth Diaper Blog.
• Green & Clean Mom has the tools to help your family get through cold and flu season—naturally.
• The Soft Landing Blog explains whether or not it’s safe to wash plastics in the dishwasher.
• Ever wonder what it’s like to homeschool? Renaissance Mama answers your questions.
• This Mama Makes Stuff gives us some crafty inspiration in the form of a homemade infant wrap dress.

-Marygrace, KIWI staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Pink and Blue Avenue shares easy, DIY baby food recipes like apple cabbage or green beans, collards, and rice.
• Halloween is just around the corner, and The Full Mommy has trick-or-treating safety tips.
• Flu season in full swing, but A Mama’s Blog wonders about the safety of the H1N1 vaccine.
• Is your kid a daredevil? You’re not alone, says TeachingMommy.
• SafeMama shares her pick for (adorable) PVC-free rain gear for kids.

-Marygrace, KIWI staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Looking for another way to preserve fall fruit? NatureMoms says try dehydrating!
• More about meat: Why families should choose organic beef, according to Annie’s Organic Baby.
• Fruit flies are annoying, but EnviroMom knows an easy way to banish them from your house.
• Out of the Crayon Box shows how easy it is to make a DIY play kitchen—out of an old nightstand!
• Looking for a fun costume idea to enter in our DIY Halloween costume contest? Try Helping Little Hands‘ poodle outfit.

-Marygrace, KIWI staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• It’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Heather at A Mama’s Blog is training for the Komen Denver Race for the Cure.
• Feeling foggy? Learn the top three ways to get energized at Mom On The Run.
• GeekyMomma gets back to teaching, and notices that while the kids have stayed the same, other things at school have changed.
• How do you know an item you’re buying is really green? Tree Hugging Family shares their criteria for green product reviews.
• A new way to use pumpkin: Kingdom Twindom shares her method for pumpkin pie puffs.

-Marygrace, KIWI staffer

Have you heard about the new eco-conscious documentary, My Toxic Baby? Directed by mom Min Sook Lee, it chronicles her journey to find safe, sane, and affordable ways to raise her child in a world full of chemicals and synthetic ingredients. Motivated by baby care products that she describes as a “mountain of stuff [that] seemed so completely unnecessary”, Lee sought to share her parenting journey with others in an attempt to let moms and dads know about the healthy, chemical-free alternatives that exist.

My Toxic Baby recently made it’s debut at the Toronto International Film Festival, though there’s no word about future premieres. However, you can learn more about the documentary—and even order a copy—at mytoxicbaby.com.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Are you a city mom or a country mom? Being the latter, BusyMom discusses her fascination with life in New York and Chicago.
• We found out from Wisconsin Mommy that September 23rd was National Family Game Night. Perhaps a little late, but who says your family game night can’t be September 28th instead?
• Petite Planet recounts the childhood pleasure of hanging out under the kitchen table, and links to some cool photos, too!
• How to get your kid to like broccoli? The Mom Slant explains why she doesn’t buy branded character foods for her family.
• Mom-101 recalls her own ballet experience when taking her daughter to her first class.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Life transitions of all kinds can be tough for kids and grown-ups alike. The Tranquil Parent finds wisdom in the words of Winnie the Pooh author A.A. Milne.
• On our quest to always be a little greener, Pure Mothers asks: Can environmentalism go too far?
• Mama-Om documents her son’s experience with the giant octopus tree. Talk about kids exploring nature!
• Caught up in the Swine Flu scare? Mom Go Green shares tips to keep your kids safe.
• Via Green Me: Due to the recent BPA controversy, Patagonia has terminated their relationship with SIGG.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Are peaches still available at your local farmer’s market? If so, try canning some of them for the winter with this tutorial from Naturally Knocked Up.
• The Tranquil Parent encourages moms and dads to check your child’s car seat to make sure it’s properly installed.
• Next time you have an opportunity to take a relaxing bath, try Frugal Granola’s recipe for Mama’s Passion Bath Salt.
• Make and Takes says you can  preserve family memories by  encouraging your kids to journal.
• Slowly but surely, cities are providing curbside composting. Learn about it at Green Mama’s Pad.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Trying to cut back on grocery bills? See how Melanie of My Little Patch of Sunshine does it.
• Crunchy Domestic Goddess is encouraging families to reduce their impacts on the planet with the Ditch the Disposables Challenge 2009.
• Apple season is upon us, and GreenStyleMom takes her kids to pick their own. Fun!
• Tree Hugging Family knows greening your trash bags isn’t the most exciting thing–but it’s still important.
• Ever thought about how the color pink affects gender cues? PhD in Parenting makes some interesting points.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Too many tomatoes? The Green Baby Guide has ideas on how to use them!
• Nature Moms Blog says kids in the city need adventures, too–and she’s got some great suggestions!
• PrairieMama copes with her little one’s first day of kindergarten.
• Learn how to stop procrastinating and get more done with tips from The Tranquil Parent.
• What are you grateful for? Waldorf Mama gives thanks on Gratitude Friday.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Funny stories of the last week of summer from Green Kiddos.
• On our never-ending quest to live more earth-friendly, Green & Clean Mom reminds us that we’re only human.
• Chicky Chicky Baby realizes her kids won’t be kids forever.
• Crafty projects like felt toys and cute skirts, from Nested.
• According to The Green Mom Review, SIGG’s reusable bottles for kids do contain BPA.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

With earlier bedtimes and wake-ups, homework assignments, and busy schedules, going from lazy summer to regimented autumn can sometimes be tough on kids. Instead of making an abrupt switch, use the next few weeks (or days, depending on when school starts in your area!) to create a gradual transition to the new school year with these ideas:

• Start the conversation. Begin talking about the upcoming school year as a family. What are your kids most excited about? What are some of their goals?
• Complete summer reading assignments. Since middle and high school students usually have to read novels, they’ve probably long since created a long-term plan. Younger kids can get away with reading their shorter assignments the night before–but why wait? Tackle summer reading now, and discuss the material together.
• Reinstate routine. Part of summer’s charm is that routine often flies out the window. However, now is the time to get your little one used to the idea of the school year schedule, so gradually reinstate earlier bedtimes and wake-ups.
• Give them something to be excited about. It can be something as simple as a new lunchbox or colored pencil set, but kids will be excited about new school gear if they get to pick it out.

For more back-to-school resources, including greening your school and healthy school lunches, check out kiwimagonline.com/backtoschool.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffter

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• PrairieMama’s friend, Joe Heywood, guest blogs about the importance of attunement, and how it can improve parent-child relationships.
• Read one mom’s thoughts about the benefits of breastmilk over cow’s milk, then check out how others weigh in with the Breastfeeding Carnival at Pure Mothers.
• So simple (and fun!), why didn’t we think of this? This Mama Makes Stuff does homemade bread with cookie cutters.
• You’ve tried cloth diapers, but what about cloth wipes? Learn how to make them work for you at the Cloth Diaper Blog.
• Living green definitely goes hand in hand with saving money. A lot of us are pinching pennies now, but the Green Baby Guide wants to know: were you frugal before the recession?

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

Today we’re talking with Micaela Preston, a stay-at-home mom of two living in Minneapolis, MN. Her blog, Mindful Momma, focuses on sharing advice for “living green without going broke”.

First, tell us a little bit about yourself: Where do you live? How old are your kids? What sorts of things does your family enjoy doing together?

I live in Minneapolis, MN, which is the GREATEST CITY EVER in the spring, summer and fall.  Winter?  Not so much.

My husband John and I have two boys - Drew is 9 years old and going into 4th grade and Liam is 4 1/2 but everyone thinks he is 6 because he is so tall.

Minneapolis is full of bike trails and one of our favorite activities is to go on family bike rides.  We started our kids on bike rides at an early age - using a hand-me-down Burley bike trailer and then later graduated to a trail-a-bike attachment (found one cheap at a garage sale!) and then of course to biking on their own.   I highly recommend biking as a great outdoor activity for any family!

What motivated you to create Mindful Momma?

I started my blog about 3 years ago and there’s an interesting story behind it.  We used to belong to Costco and I got in the (bad) habit of buying bottled water by the case…because it was cheap!  When I finally realized just how wasteful that was, I went to REI and bought fancy, plastic reusable water bottles for the whole family…and vowed to stop buying bottled water.  Only weeks later, I read an article about BPA in polycarbonate plastic bottles and realized that was the type we were using.  I was SO frustrated!!  I had only recently discovered the blog medium and was instantly hooked on the conversational style used in blog posts….so I decided to start my own blog about my adventures in living a green & healthy life with my family.  I had absolutely no idea where it would lead me…

[Read more →]

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Crunchy Domestic Goddess warns moms to be wary of greenwashing when it comes to packing school lunches–ditch the organic Oreos in favor of homemade granola bars!
• Check out The Artful Parent’s creative take on watercolors, which sounds like a great rainy-day activity.
• Learn all about the health benefits of wheatgrass, plus how to grow it at home from Earth Mama.
• Slugs on the Refrigerator takes some time to step out of her family’s pattern of busy-ness.
• PhD in Parenting calls for more flexible parenting and maternity leave.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Packing lunch is easy when you’ve got your own garden! Crunchy Domestic Goddess muses over her homegrown cucumbers.
• Muthering Heights is looking for natural colic remedies. Share your advice!
• Ever have a hard time remembering whether or not you turned off the oven upon leaving the house? Locked the front door? Boost your memory power with a simple tip from The Tranquil Parent.
• Tree Hugging Family discusses the benefits of green curriculum in schools. Teach ‘em while they’re young!
• The new school year is just around the corner! Get ready with Non-Toxic Kids’ eco-friendly back to school guide.

-Marygrace, KIWI staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Looking for earth-friendly ways to keep pesky mosquitoes at bay? Check out Pink and Blue Avenue’s all-natural ideas.
• Gift of Green turns popsicle sticks into decorative Countdown Sticks, so your family can count down til the Next Big Thing that’s going on.
• You’ve considered cloth diapers, but what about cloth baby wipes? Read all about them at Green Baby Guide.
• EnviroMom weighs in on making climate change part of the curriculum for high schoolers.
• Looking for a summer treat to help you cool off? Try The Green Parent’s mouth-watering recipe for Blackberry Chocolate Frozen Yogurt.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Did you know you can recycle drinking straws? What about envelopes with plastic windows? Change Becomes Change has a list of recycle-friendly items that may surprise you.
• Mommy’s Favorite Things helps us sort out all our eco-laundry questions.
• It’s Money-Saving Monday over at My Little Patch of Sunshine. Find out how business loyalty cards can help your budget.
• Eco Women has compiled a whole list of resources for moms looking to be greener, with links regarding everything from car seats to strollers to healthy toys.
• Read all about one mom’s experience with potty training bootcamp at Green Kiddos.

Also, we want more of your blogs! We got a great response on last week’s post, but KiwiLog is still looking for more mom blogs to feature in our blogroll. Please share your links!

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

As a parent, you jump through hoops to find the safest cribs, carriers, strollers, and changing tables for your little bundle of joy, but unfortunately, these items don’t usually come with ingredient labels. Many child products are made with fire retardants, which contain toxic chemicals called polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). Exposure to PBDEs have been linked to health problems including cancer, birth defects, hyperactivity, and reproductive disorders.

Last month, the California Senate proposed a bill to ban fire retardant chemicals on kids’ products. California is currently the only state in the nation that requires these items be fire retarded. Unfortunately, the cheapest way for manufacturers to comply with this law is to make all products according to California standards. So whether that baby crib is going to New Jersey or to California, it’s going to contain fire retardants.

If the bill passes in California, it’s likely that manufacturers will stop adding the fire retardants to products, making the whole nation a bit safer.

Won’t the ban on fire retardants mean that kids will be in danger of fire? Not exactly. Even if a fire retardant product were to catch fire, it’s still not fireproof; the retardant only offers six to 12 seconds of flame resistance. Still, if you feel more comfortable buying a fireproof product, go the natural route. Many baby mattresses are made with wool, which is naturally fire retardant, and there are also products made with naturally flame resistant cotton fibers.

-Stephanie Hacker, editorial intern

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Calling all crafty moms! Origami Mommy shares a tutorial for DIY baby booties.
• Confessions of a Mean Mommy discusses the pleasures of a few camp-free weeks of summer with her boys.
• With new outbreaks and recalls being announced so frequently as of late, Mindful Momma’s post on the importance of food safety couldn’t come at a better time!
• Plastic, plastic, everywhere. Learn about what drinking straws are made of, as well as some alternative options, courtesy of The Soft Landing blog.
• Renaissance Mama chronicles her family’s experience of an all-American summer activity–blueberry picking.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere.  Interested in having your blog featured?  Let us know in the comments!

• Are you a tea fan? Tree Hugging Family reviews Earth Mama Angel Baby’s organic Mama-To-Be tea sampler (thumbs up!), and holds a tea sampler giveaway.
• Lots of us have been experiencing never-ending rain, clouds, and cool temperatures. Beat the summer gloomies by looking on the bright side with Secret Mom Thoughts.
• Pure Mothers serve up an environmentally-responsible slice of strawberry rhubarb pie.
• If you’ve yet to do any berry picking this year, GreenStyleMom’s experience will inspire you.
• Mindful Momma admits it–you can’t be 100% green 100$ of the time! Check out the eco-confessional.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staff Writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere.  Interested in having your blog featured?  Let us know in the comments!

• Muthering Heights marvels at her daughter’s growing sense of curiousity about the world around her.
• Just in time for Father’s Day: The Green Mom Review talks earth-friendly shave gel for dad.
• Got any birthdays coming up? Try this yummy carrot cake recipe, courtesy of Thrifty Mom to Three Boys.
• Kingdom Twindom shares her experience with natural oatmeal baths for baby.
• Balloons are festive, but they’re no party for the environment. Learn why at Mom Goes Green.
• Enviromom beautifies her pantry with earth-friendly shelf paper.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staff Writer

If you’re in the Philadelphia area, help Heart Gallery Philadelphia promote adoption awareness on June 20th with its Fourth Annual Gala exhibit. On display at the Please Touch Museum during the month of July, the exhibit features portraits of 30 foster children awaiting adoption in the Philadelphia area. The Heart Gallery seeks for the exhibit to raise awareness for the need of adoptive families through providing a face and voice to some of the children in the area looking for their “forever family.”

To learn more, visit heartgalleryphiladelphia.org.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staff Writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere.  Interested in having your blog featured?  Let us know in the comments!

• Looking for some quotable inspiration? Sweet Serendipity has some kid-related words of wisdom.
• Green Kiddos has the scoop on cloth diapering 101.
• Mothering Nature borrows a hilarious tradition called Not Me Monday. Just read it!
• Get ready for Father’s Day with some dad appreciation, courtesy of The Bean Blog.
• Cut yourself some slack! The Tranquil Parent tells how to give yourself a break.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staff Writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere.  Interested in having your blog featured?  Let us know in the comments!

• EnviroMom made compost! What about you?
• Got an old cell phone you’re looking to get rid of? The Clothesline tells you how.
• If you live in Northern California, check out The Green Parent’s guide highlighting local, earth-friendly stores, markets, forums, and events.
• Tree Hugging Family compiles a great list of eco education websites for kids and teens.
• More news on the dangers of BPA, courtesy of The Smart Mama.

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere.  Interested in having your blog featured?  Let us know in the comments!

• Fun, summer family moments abound in SouleMama’s photograph post.  Think rhubarb pie, dandelions, and puppet shows!
• A timely topic: PhD in Parenting talks about explaining the recession and teaching financial literacy to kids.
• Curious about the world of homeschooling?  Learn about the curriculum of a 4th grader via Renaissance Mama.
• Mothering Nature imperfectly comes to term with imperfections.
• Looking for a good morel recipe?  Mindful Momma has you covered with Asparagus and Morel Bread Pudding.

-Marygrace Stergakos, KIWI Staff Writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere.  Interested in having your blog featured?  Let us know in the comments!

• Curious about the meanings behind different eco certification labels?  Tree Hugging Family breaks it down.
• The Tranquil Parent explains how to host a clothing swap–perfect for families on a budget!
• Mom Goes Green reflects on the massive amount of plastic we use in our lifetimes.
• Eating locally and sustainably is important, and there’s no better time to do it than the spring and summer.  If you’re not yet a believer, let Green SAHM convince you.
• Cloth Diaper Blog discusses the merits of swim diapers.

-Marygrace Stergakos, KIWI Staff Writer