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Achieve Sibling Harmony in 5 Steps

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"Life doesn't come with a manual, it comes with a mother."

Morning, Mommy! Here's to November: Less spook, more cook. Ready for today's tidbits that probably won't go as planned?

Today’s Mommy scoop:

  • Sibling harmony in 5 steps

  • Genius hack for informal playtime

  • Delightful sweet potato wedges. 🍠👌

  • Embrace fall with a DIY gratitude tree

Say goodbye to last-minute, panic-induced gift shopping — Get your gift list sorted early.

Mom’s Field Guide

5 Steps to Sibling Harmony

Sometimes the tiniest of things spark the greatest of wars among siblings.

Whether it's over an iPad, a spot on the couch, or the last slice of cake, keeping peace can seem elusive.

Dive into these tips to create more harmonious home dynamics.

Common Tussles and Trials 

Kids squabble over seemingly insignificant things.

From who brushes their teeth first to who gets the shiny discarded chip bag, it's all about perceived fairness.

It may sound silly to us, but to them, it's serious business.

Tools for Teaching Empathy 

The "More Fun With Sisters and Brothers Program" emphasizes understanding different perspectives.

Teach kids to see situations from both sides using "See it your way, see it my way."

This fosters better communication and reduces conflict.

Avoid Unintentional Comparisons 

Even when trying to compliment, comparing kids can stir up envy and resentment.

Celebrate each child's unique qualities without drawing parallels to their siblings.

Fairness Over Equality 

Kids value fair treatment over identical treatment. They're generally understanding when they can see a reason behind disparities.

So, it's more about fairness and understanding than about rigid equality.

Sharing: A Flexible Approach 

Avoid dictating when and how your kids should share. Instead of enforcing strict turn-taking, guide them in finding their own sharing rhythm.

It might just surprise you how they negotiate peace.

In a house of ever-clashing wills, fostering understanding and compassion can be your best tools.

Encourage kids to see the world through their sibling's eyes, and you'll find fewer battles and more bonding moments.

Remember, they don't always need equal – they need fair and understood.

Keep reading on the subject here.

Together with Better Gift Coach

Your free shortcut to meaningful holiday gifts for your loved ones

The Better Gift Coach newsletter is a 1-minute-a-week shortcut to meaningful gifts – comfortably in advance of the holidays.

THIS ISN'T JUST ANOTHER GIFT GUIDE.

It's real people sharing real stories of the best gifts they've ever given/received and guidance on how you can do your own version of those gifts.

Mom's Mic: This Week’s Poll 🎤 

What is your go-to method for dealing with tantrums?

-> Vote to reveal what other moms think

Login or Subscribe to participate in polls.

Poll Results From 10/30

How do you manage screen time for your kids?

 🟨⬜️⬜️⬜️⬜️⬜️ Strict schedule (11%)

🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 Limited hours per day (49%)

🟨🟨⬜️⬜️⬜️⬜️ No restrictions (18%)

🟨🟨⬜️⬜️⬜️⬜️ Based on behavior and homework completion (22%)

Featured Response 😊 

“When her screen time was restricted, all she wanted to do was zone out in front of the screen, but now that she's only allowed an hour in the morning and an hour in the evening, she engages in more creative play. She's given a pass for a few educational videos outside of set screen time hours.”

- Community Mom

Mom Hack

Let Neighborhood Friends Know When Your Kids Are Free to Play With a Door Sign

Mom Hack

Got neighborhood kiddos always popping by, especially during homework or mealtime?

A door sign might just be your saving grace! Either use this free template or get crafty and design your own.

Bright, playful graphics can make it super clear for the young ones! 🚪🌈

Mom’s Menu

Easy Sweet Potato Wedges! 🍠👌

Source: acouplecooks

Are you craving something delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make?

How about some crispy, oven-baked sweet potato wedges? These are not only super yummy but can also be jazzed up for a filling meal.

Get ready to have your kiddos ask for seconds!

📝 Ingredients

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

  • 2 pounds small to medium-sized sweet potatoes (size matters, trust me! 🙃)

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Bonus for a main dish: 4 cups Quick Chili, sliced green onions, sour cream, and hot sauce.

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Preheat that oven of yours to a toasty 450°F.

  2. Mix those lovely spices and salt in a bowl. (Psst! For crispier wedges, sneak in 3 tablespoons of cornstarch here.)

  3. Cleanse your sweet potatoes and keep those beneficial skins on.

  4. Slice them into cute short wedges.

  5. Coat those beauties with olive oil and your spice mix.

  6. Lay them out on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.

  7. Let them bake for about 30-35 minutes until they're tender, slightly crispy, and beautifully golden.

Source: acouplecooks

📌 Notes

  • For the best wedges, choose small to medium sweet potatoes. Those large ones? Perfect for fries!

  • For an added crunch, consider that cornstarch trick I mentioned. Though, keep in mind it's not as crispy as the deep-fried ones.

Mamas, these wedges are not just a side dish. Top them with chili or black beans, throw in some green onions, sour cream, or cheese, and voila!

Dinner is served. 🎉 

And if you're in the dipping mood, try some pesto aioli, honey mustard, or cilantro sauce. Your taste buds will thank you!

Happy cooking, and always remember, every meal is a chance for a new family memory! 💖🍴

Full recipe here.

Daily DIY (Fall Edition)

A Gratitude Tree

Source: thehousethatlarsbuilt

Imagine a tree, brimming with colorful leaves of gratitude.

It's a heartfelt way to showcase what everyone's thankful for.

You can even add little favors or keep it simple with paper leaves.

The tutorial is here.

Mom’s Choice

Okay, let's be real. Our little ones are adorable, but they're also adorable mess-makers.

What if I told you there's a way to turn your tot into your very own cleaning crew?

Yep, this pretend play cleaning set not only keeps them busy but also teaches them to clean up after themselves.

It's a win-win! 🙌 

Toddler Toy Cleaning Set

  • Transforms your little mess-maker into a mini cleaning crew.

  • Educational and fun, teaching kids about cleaning and responsibility.

  • Sturdy wooden design ensures it survives the toddler apocalypse.

Game

Tiny Faces, Big Names

This mommy's boy grew up to break music records and become one of the world's biggest artists ever. Who is it?
(Answer below)

Mom’s Meme 🤣

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Answer

It's Drake!

Reply

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