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Build A Playground That Lasts: Prolonging The Life Of Your Swing Set

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Playground (almost done)

A swing set is a great addition to any backyard. It provides hours of entertainment for energy-filled kids and gets them away from the TV for a while. The best part — if you’re into DIY projects — is that you can build it yourself.

But how do you make sure that when you build it, it will last until your kids are grown — or even until your grandkids can have their turn spending quality time outdoors?

Getting started

First, you’ll need to figure out the size of your swing set — not just how tall it will be, but how much space it will take up in your yard, how much room you’ll have between the swings, etc. If the ground is particularly tough, putting a sandbox around the swing set can provide a softer landing for the kids.

Next, you’ll need to gather materials and tools. Supplies include the following:  [Read more…] about Build A Playground That Lasts: Prolonging The Life Of Your Swing Set

Originally posted on October 31, 2013 @ 7:20 pm

Encourage Your Daughter to Follow Her Dreams: 5 Dress-Up Ideas

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Mom's Old Trunk

Young girls especially need constant encouragement and support to follow their dreams and aspirations. As parents, you can support your daughter by giving her the tools she needs to get inspired and let her imagination run wild. There are plenty of modern tools to choose from in our digital world, but I think the best option is one that dates back to when we were kids: a dress-up trunk. From wearing mom’s high heels to playing doctor, here are five cool ideas to start your daughter’s very own dress-up trunk.

1. Stethoscope

Mommy's Heartbeat
After watching you bandage owies and administer children’s medicine on sick days, your little girl might be curious about playing this caregiver role herself. A stethoscope is one instrument kids seem to find endlessly fascinating, which can encourage her curiosity about the medical field. Use this opportunity to teach her about key health concepts like washing hands, disinfecting injuries, eating healthy foods and exercising. You can also include a miniature white coat and a child’s doctor kit with plastic syringes, bandages and thermometers. [Read more…] about Encourage Your Daughter to Follow Her Dreams: 5 Dress-Up Ideas

Originally posted on May 7, 2013 @ 2:32 pm