Top Safety Tips for Trick-or-Treating with Kids

Together with

"Wake up with determination; go to bed with satisfaction."

Morning Mommy! New week, new adventures, and yes, Halloween's knocking! We've whipped up some sweet (and slightly spooky) treats for your Monday.

Today’s Mommy scoop:

• 🛡️ Safety tips for trick-or-treating with kids

• 🧺 Marker dots = Quick laundry sorting

• 🧙‍♀️ Witch fingers snack

• 🎀 DIY baby bows: Make, wear, or sell

Tinker, build, and play together—Check if STEM Fest is just minutes away.

Holiday Hoopla

Safety Tips for Trick-or-Treating

Halloween is right around the corner and, if you're like me, you've already plotted out those adorable family costumes.

But let's talk about something equally important: keeping our little ghouls and goblins safe while they collect their candy stash. 👻 🍬

The Safety Scoop on Toddler Trick-or-Treating

Before you dress your tot as the cutest pumpkin in the patch, a few reminders:

• No Masks for Tiny Faces: Masks, wigs, or beards that cover the eyes, nose, or mouth are a no-no.

• Fit Check: Make sure costumes aren’t trip-up oversized.

• Parental Guidance: Always accompany your toddler and report any odd activity.

• Allergy Alert: Read the labels on treats for common allergens like peanuts, milk, or soy. If in doubt, go for the good ol' "Treat Fairy" swap. 🧚‍♀️

For the Older Little Monsters

Our slightly older munchkins have a bit more freedom but need guidance too:

• Be Bright and Light: Reflective costumes and accessories are your friend.

• Say No to Toxic: Opt for nontoxic face makeup over masks that limit vision.

• Play it Safe: If your child's costume involves a prop like a sword, ensure it’s harmless and not too large.

• Tech-Savvy: Teach your kids to call 9-1-1 and keep flashlights handy.

The Teen Scene: Tricks for the Nearly-Grown Treaters

• Eye Care: Skip the decorative contact lenses, even if they make the vampire look authentic.

• Plan Ahead: Set a route and a curfew for your wandering teen.

• Stay Grouped: Teens should stick together to watch each other's backs (and candy bags).

Wrap-up:

So, while Halloween is the one night a year when we hypocritically allow our kids to take candy from strangers, it doesn’t mean we toss caution to the autumn wind.

Let's aim for a night that's more treat than trick, okay?

Happy Haunting, Mamas! 🎃💕

Together with Bright Horizons

Hands-On Fun for Curious Little Minds

Kids who dive into STEM early are six times more likely to pursue careers in these fields!

If your little one’s curiosity is endless (like most kids!), you have to check out STEM Fest at Bright Horizons on November 7—everyone’s welcome!

For a couple of fun-filled hours, your child will get to tinker, build, and create through hands-on activities that boost problem-solving skills and spark creativity.

And hey, I’ll be there with my little one at our local center—I can’t wait to see him discover something new. 😊 

This event is for everyone, so bring your little scientist and RSVP today!

Mom's Mic: This Week’s Poll

Poll Results From 10/18

What's your family's favorite weekend activity?

🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 Going to the park (38%)

🟨⬜️⬜️⬜️⬜️⬜️ Baking or cooking together (9%)

🟨🟨⬜️⬜️⬜️⬜️ Movie nights (15%)

⬜️⬜️⬜️⬜️⬜️⬜️ Playing board games (5%)

🟨🟨🟨🟨🟨⬜️ Exploring new places (33%)

Featured Response 💬 

That sounds like such a sweet tradition! I love how you're mixing adventure with family time—those weekly dinners are going to be such a special addition too! -Danielle 😊 

Mom Hack

Speedy Laundry Sorting with Marker Dots

Mom Hack

Ever mix up the kids' clothes while speed-folding laundry?

You're not alone!

Try the "Dot System" to save time and confusion. Grab a permanent marker and add a dot on the tags—one for your oldest, two for the next, and so on.

Now you can sort those little tees and onesies in a flash, no second-guessing needed!

Mom’s Menu

Witch Fingers Halloween Snack

Looking to get your kids spooked—and fed—this Halloween?

These Witch Fingers are not only the cutest creepy-crawlies you've ever seen, but they're also a lot healthier than a bucketful of sugary candy.

And guess what?

The kiddos can lend their tiny hands to make these finger-lookalikes.

It’s like playing with Play-Doh, but you can eat it afterward!

Why You’ll Love It:

• 🎃 Festive and fun for Halloween parties!

• 🍪 Easy to make with simple cookie ingredients

📝 Ingredients

• 1 cup butter, softened

• 1/2 cup confectioners sugar

• 1 large egg

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 1/2 cups white whole wheat flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp salt

• Fingernails:

  • 1/2 cup almonds

  • 1/4 cup chocolate chips

  • 1 tsp coconut oil

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cream Ingredients: In a mixer, cream the butter and sugar. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.

2. Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually combine with the creamed mixture.

3. Chill Dough: Cover and refrigerate dough for 30 minutes.

4. Shape: Divide dough into 2-tablespoon portions, roll into finger shapes, and add nail indentations and knuckle lines.

5. Bake: Place on a greased baking sheet and bake at 325°F for 20-25 minutes.

6. Decorate: Melt chocolate, apply to finger tips, and attach an almond for the nail. Let set.

📌 Note

If your household is on Team Nut-Free, you can swap out the almonds for a dab of extra chocolate.

Or go wild with green candy melts for some glam witch nails!

So there you go, lovely. These Witch Fingers are the perfect Halloween treat that’s more treat than trick.

Happy Spooking, and even happier munching! 🎃👻

Full recipe here.

Daily DIY (Mom Side Hustle)

Baby Bows (Make & Sell)

Bows and clips aren't just a cute accessory; they're a great side-hustle too!

These cute accessories are simple to make and perfect for adding a handmade touch to any outfit.

1. Grab some colorful fabric or ribbon and cut it into strips.

2. Fold the fabric to create the bow shape and secure the middle with a dab of hot glue.

3. Add a clip or attach it to a soft headband for a comfortable fit.

4. For an extra pop, mix different patterns or textures.

These bows are a hit at markets and online—plus, they're quick to make!

The tutorial is here.

Mom’s Choice

You know those days when you've been knee-deep in playdough, baby food, and temper tantrums?

Yeah, those days. That's when you need this soaking salt.

Just a sprinkle in your bath, and it's like a mini spa day right at home.

Your muscles (and sanity) will thank you. 💪 

Mama Me Moment Soaking Salts

Game

Parenting Pop Quiz

Which of these fruits should not be given to children under the age of 1 due to the risk of botulism?
(Answer below)

A) Jackfruit

B) Dragon Fruit

C) Honeydew

D) None of the above

Mom’s Meme 🤣

Answer

D) None of the above