Nest & Notebooks: Printables for Learning and Time Together

A story to read with your child, a writing activity for a quiet afternoon, or a journal you can fill in together—Nest & Notebooks offers printable resources for learning and family life.

Available on Teachers Pay Teachers, the collection includes short stories with questions for reading practice, beginnings of stories for children to finish, and journals where they can write or draw about their own experiences. Younger children can start with letters, simple words and illustrated reading activities.

The shop also has resources for the grown-ups. Homework Without Battles, for example, gives parents a place to record how homework is going and look for patterns. Other journals focus on family routines, school breaks and time away from screens.

Take a look through the previews to see the pages and decide what would be useful in your home or classroom. Each resource is a digital download to print yourself.

Visit Nest & Notebooks:
https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/nest-notebooks

Self Disclosure: This is a sponsored post.

Halloween Treats that aren’t Candy!

A healthier option!

Looking for something other than candy to give the kids this Halloween? They are sure to get more candy than they need! Here’s a healthier option that kids and adults are going to love! My favorite is the all mango!

Crispy Green, maker of Crispy Fruit freeze-dried fruit snacks made with just one ingredient, has a few easy ideas for adding something different to the Halloween spread:

• Build a “Beyond the Candy Bowl” snack board with Crispy Fruit, popcorn, pretzels, cheese, and crackers.

• Make grab-and-go Halloween snack cups with a mix of sweet and salty favorites.

• Set up a build-your-own snack mix station and let kids choose their own combinations.

• Use naturally orange and colorful foods to make the table festive without complicated recipes.

• Put out easy pre-trick-or-treating snacks before the candy haul begins.

Crispy Fruit is an easy, no-prep addition for Halloween celebrations at home, school, or community events.

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this holiday themed post. Images were also provided.

Spooky and Fun Halloween Gift Suggestions for the Kids!

Available on OrientalTrading.com

Oriental Trading 54″ x 54″ Halloween Let’s Get Spooky Fleece Tied Blanket Craft Kit | MSRP: $27.99 | Available on OrientalTrading.com

Decorate your haunt with a blanket featuring a haunted house! This convenient craft kit includes two pieces of fleece with pre-cut fringe that kids can tie together to create a blanket that has the image of a haunted house, ghosts, jack-o’-lanterns, bats and a black cat. Kids will be excited to complete the blanket and then add it to seasonal home decorations to use for keeping warm on spooky fall evenings. Imported. Includes pre-cut fleece fringe. Kits include instructions.

This is a lot of fun, simple, and I love that it can be used for the Halloween decor!

Available on Amazon

MindWare Magic Noise Catcher Magic Noise Catcher Voice Recorder Toy | MSRP: $34.99 | Available on Amazon

Giggle, sing and speak into this one-of-a-kind voice recorder toy, which captures each sound and plays it back! It’s perfect for fostering self-discovery and enhancing language skills while providing screen-free fun at home, in the classroom or on the go! This is fun for very young kids, but older kids will have a lot of fun with it too!

Available at: Walmart

Stanley Jr. Painters Set | MSRP: $32.99 | Ages: 3+ | The Stanley Jr. Kids Painter Set lets little ones dive into the colorful world of painting and design! The set includes a roller, brush, tray, color fun deck, and realistic paint bucket, all perfectly sized for little hands. Kids can mix, match, and pretend-paint walls, furniture, or create their own masterpieces while building fine motor skills and creativity along the way. It’s a fun way to bring imaginative, hands-on play to life! 

Moonbuddy: A screen-free relaxation device for kids and it is sooo cute! I even recommend it for adults!

Looking for a screen-free product for young kids? One that will help them feel calmer? This is the product for you! So what is moonbuddy?  It is a screen-free calming companion for kids aged 5 to 12. Its tummy gently expands and contracts, with soft light cues, so children can simply breathe along. It helps kids settle down, wind down at bedtime and manage big feelings. One button, no app, and each session stops on its own after 6 minutes. I absolutely love this product!
– Price: $99.99

You can check it out and buy it here.

Sticki Rolls Creepies (MSRP $4.99 | Ages 5+)

The spooky obsession continues! Sticki Rolls Creepies Season 2 is the crossover of cute and creepy that fans have been waiting for. This limited-edition line brings a darker, more elevated take on the wearable sticker format, turning art into fashion and fashion into fun. Each capsule comes with 50 stickers and is a surprise experience, allowing fans to curate their own high-style looks inspired by the ever-evolving world of spooky storytelling.

Available at Target.

Sunset Ocean Waves Kit

Looking for a fun art project for the kids or even yourself this Fall season? Davincified has you covered! They are a paint-by-numbers brand focused on creating personalized painting kits for adults and families.

They have a wide variety of different kits you can choose from and I loved the Sunset Ocean Waves kit, but I haven’t finished it yet so will be posting again over the upcoming holidays! Stay tuned!
Website: https://www.davincified.com
Social media: Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, TikTok and YouTube under @davincifiedcom

PLAYMOBIL x Monster High (MSRP $24.99-$44.99 | Ages 5+ | Available on PLAYMOBIL & Amazon

The all-new PLAYMOBIL x Monster High collection brings the spooky halls of Monster High to life through four detailed, collectible playsets featuring fan-favorite characters, glow-in-the-dark elements and interactive accessories. Designed for ages 5+, each set encourages imaginative storytelling and can be connected with the others to create a customizable Monster High campus for endless fang-tastic adventures. 

Self Disclosure: I received free samples of the above items to feature. Info and images were also provided. All products posted are highly recommended.

More Back-to-School Must-Buys!

Here are some of my favorite food products for Back-to-School time!

Clover Sonoma Greek Yogurt is a must-try!

As families gear up for back-to-school season, many parents are looking for nutritious snacks and breakfasts that keep kids energized and focused throughout the day.

I’m reaching out on behalf of Clover Sonoma. We’d welcome the opportunity to support you on a lifestyle or health-focused story highlighting high-protein, kid-friendly options using simple dairy staples like yogurt, eggs, and cheese, foods that are easy to prepare and widely available. You can try so many simple recipes using the Clover Sonoma Greek Yogurt!

I have tried their cheeses, and they are delicious! You could make a cheese snack box featuring their full line of California Cheese!

Soooo delicious!

 As families prepare for the busy school year ahead, parents are seeking portable, wholesome snacks that fit easily into lunchboxes, backpacks, and after-school activities.

Two standout options are making the grade this season: MEZETE’s shelf-stable Grab N Go Hummus packs and MIGHTYLICIOUS Gluten-Free Oatmeal Coconut Cookies.

MEZETE Grab N Go Hummus: Fresh Taste, No Preservatives; No Refrigeration

Perfect for school lunches, field trips, sports practices, and busy family schedules, MEZETE’s Grab N Go Hummus packs offer a convenient, satisfying snack without the need for refrigeration. Made with no preservatives, these shelf-stable snack packs pair creamy hummus with crunchy breadsticks for a delicious and wholesome option kids and parents will love.

Available varieties include:

  • Classic Hummus with Breadsticks
  • Roasted Red Pepper with Breadsticks
  • Zesty Za’atar with Breadsticks

My favorite is the Roasted Red Pepper with Breadsticks!

The Classic Hummus with Breadsticks delivers the timeless flavor of traditional hummus in a portable format that’s ready whenever hunger strikes. MEZETE’s dedication to quality and innovation has earned significant industry recognition, including a 2026 Vegan Besties Award for its To Go Classic Hummus, selection by VegNews as a Best New Vegan Product, and additional international honors for its innovative snack offerings.

Their Grab N Go Hummus packs are available at Giant Eagle, Albertsons, Meijer, ShopRite, and Whole Foods Markets nationwide, among others.

MEZETE is made with the finest authentic Middle Eastern ingredients, sourced from their headquarters in Amman, Jordan.

In addition, MEZETE makes a variety of other preservative-free foods, including sauces, dips, stews and soups  -many are gluten free and/or vegan. See them here:  https://mezete.com/products/

In addition to being available at select supermarkets nationwide, they are available through AMAZON and THRIVE.

This is great for making a simple dinner!

 SPI West Port, the creators of ALO Drink—the #1 aloe vera beverage brand in the U.S. and Canada—and Jenji Boba Tea, has relaunched its heralded Woodridge Snacks brand (www.woodridgesnacks.com), offering a truly original line of better-for-you taste sensations drawing flavor inspiration from culinary traditions around the world.

Lovingly crafted to meet the growing desire among consumers and retailers alike for boldly adventurous and culturally authentic international products that are every bit as wholesome as they are delicious, all affordably-priced Woodridge Snacks products are vegan, sustainably-sourced, non-GMO, low calorie, free of artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

The new relaunch is highlighted by the introduction of three delectably nutritious product lines that allow American consumers to explore the uniquely appealing flavors of lands far away without leaving the comfort of home. Joining the Woodridge Snacks family are:

  • Vacuum-Fried Brussels Sprouts with Sticky Rice Chips – Named a Finalist for Most Innovative New Product at this year’s Sweets & Snacks trade show and already shaping up as a fan-favorite, this flavor-rich treat is seasoned with Thai Chili Sauce, offering a delicate crunch and a perfect touch of heat.
  • Mediterranean Mix – A colorful blend of vacuum-fried eggplants, sweet peppers, zucchinis, and onions combined with Thai sticky rice chips and seasoned with Mediterranean-inspired spices.
  • Mango Fruit Roll – A tasty passport to the Mekong Delta region of Thailand, where mouth-watering ripe mangos are harvested and then rolled in a wood-fired oven and baked with sticky rice chapati flatbread. The result is a sweet, slightly crispy and chewy snack containing over 82% real mango fruit that blends tropical freshness with the comforting warmth of homemade goodness.

The three new items are the latest additions to a rapidly-growing line of premium-quality, internationally-themed Woodridge Snacks products that also includes:

  • Tempura Seaweed Chips – Real umami seaweed coated in light tempura batter and seasoned with either simple sea salt or a sweet and mildly spicy sriracha blend.
  • Sticky Rice Chips – Handmade chips featuring whole grain, Japanese-style Mochi sticky rice harvested from sustainable farms in Thailand.  
  • Mochi Rice Nuggets – Offered in Teriyaki or Tom Yum flavors and made with short grain, slightly sweet white rice baked to a crisp. Enjoy Teriyaki for splashes of soy sauce and sake and a hint of ginger, or Tom Yum for the taste of a traditional Thai soup favorite.

Woodridge Snacks products are sold on the www.woodridgesnacks.com site, on Amazon and through other online retailers, as well as in select Fresh Market stores and other leading retail stores (please visit https://woodridgesnacks.com/pages/store-locator for retail locations). The company’s veggie snacks are offered in both resealable grocery-size stand-up pouches and single-serve bags— ideal for on-the-go snacking or foodservice settings. Woodridge Snacks’ grocery bags are sold at a MSRP ranging from $3.79 to $4.29 and single serve packages sold between $0.99 and $1.99.

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this post. Images were also provided.

Back-to-School for College Students!

Here are some great gift suggestions for your college students!

This Air Fryer is the coolest!

Fritaire Air Fryer upgrades dorm cooking beyond ramen and microwave meals. Its 1500W halogen heating system and vortex convection technology create crispy, evenly cooked food, while the self-cleaning glass bowl makes cleanup quick and easy in compact living spaces. I love how stylish this is and it works really well! It will be a hit with your young adults! It is also available in four cool colors, so I am sure that you will find a color that you would like!

This one is must-buy!

UVI Self-Heating Lunch Box helps students enjoy hot, homemade meals without relying on a dorm kitchen. It heats refrigerated meals in about 25 minutes, steams vegetables, features an integrated UV light that helps eliminate up to 99% of bacteria, and keeps food warm for up to two hours, ideal for packed schedules between classes. I highly recommend this one! I really like the compact size and that it keeps food warm!

Evergrace Throw Blankets instantly make a dorm room feel warmer and more personal. Available in a variety of colors and ultra-soft textures, they’re perfect for movie nights, study sessions, or relaxing after a long day on campus. The blankets are so soft and comfy! These would also make wonderful holiday gifts for everyone on your shopping list!

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this back-to-school featured post. Images were also provided.

More Back-to-School Food Must-Buys!

Amasar

Better Breakfasts with Breadfruit: Amasar’s Fiber-Forward Innovation Helps Families Fuel the School Day
Puerto Rico-based Amasar helps families simplify back-to-school mornings with naturally gluten-free, fiber-forward breakfast solutions.

As families prepare for another school year, one nutritional challenge continues to concern health professionals: most Americans consume far less than the recommended daily amount of dietary fiber, despite growing evidence that fiber supports digestive health, sustained energy, heart health, and overall wellness. Busy school mornings often leave parents choosing convenience over nutrition as they search for breakfasts their children will actually enjoy.¹

Puerto Rico-based Amasar believes the solution may be found in an ingredient that has nourished Caribbean families for generations. Through its award-winning line of breadfruit-based baking products, the company is introducing American families to a naturally gluten-free, fiber-rich alternative that transforms everyday breakfasts into wholesome meals without sacrificing taste, convenience, or versatility. Unlike many gluten-free products that rely on refined starches, breadfruit naturally contains dietary fiber, complex carbohydrates, and plant-based nutrition while delivering the familiar texture and flavor consumers expect from pancakes, waffles, muffins, and baked goods. As more families embrace clean-label foods and functional ingredients, breadfruit is emerging as one of the most promising innovations in the better-for-you breakfast category.²

“Parents shouldn’t have to choose between convenience and nutrition,” said Marisol Villalobos, Co-Founder and CEO of Amasar. “Breadfruit naturally provides fiber, versatility, and exceptional taste while creating breakfasts families already love. We’re introducing an ingredient that’s been treasured for centuries and helping make it part of the modern American breakfast table.”

Consumer demand continues to support this shift. Research shows that today’s shoppers are increasingly seeking foods made with recognizable ingredients that deliver nutritional value without compromising flavor. The gluten-free category has also expanded well beyond consumers with dietary restrictions as millions embrace naturally gluten-free foods as part of an overall wellness lifestyle.³

Amasar’s current product line includes Breadfruit Flour, Breadfruit Pancake Mix, and Breadfruit Waffle Mix, all produced from sustainably grown breadfruit harvested in Puerto Rico. The products are naturally gluten-free, plant-based, NON-GMO, and made with clean-label ingredients that fit seamlessly into today’s health-conscious kitchens.

For busy parents, Amasar’s baking mixes simplify healthier mornings. Families can prepare fluffy pancakes, crisp waffles, breakfast muffins, smoothie bowls, breakfast sandwiches, mini pancake bites, and make-ahead freezer breakfasts in just minutes. Breadfruit’s naturally mild flavor pairs beautifully with blueberries, bananas, cinnamon, vanilla, chocolate, apples, and other favorite breakfast ingredients, making nutritious meals both familiar and exciting.
Families looking for more inspiration can explore Amasar’s growing online collection of wholesome breakfast recipes and baking ideas. From Blueberry Breadfruit Pancakes and Banana Cinnamon Waffles to Breakfast Muffins, Sheet Pancakes, and grab-and-go school morning favorites, Amasar’s Recipe Blog helps families incorporate breadfruit into everyday meals while making healthy breakfasts simple, delicious, and fun. Visit https://amasar.net/pages/blogs/recipes for recipes and meal inspiration.

Beyond the breakfast table, every Amasar purchase supports sustainable agriculture in Puerto Rico. Breadfruit trees are naturally resilient, high-yielding, and environmentally efficient, requiring fewer agricultural inputs than many traditional crops while supporting local farmers and strengthening regional food systems.
As parents prepare children for another successful school year, breakfast doesn’t have to be a compromise between nutrition and convenience. Amasar is proving that a centuries-old Caribbean staple can help fuel healthier mornings with fiber-forward foods that taste as good as they nourish—one pancake, one waffle, and one family breakfast at a time.

Here’s a great snack idea for both adults and kids! This is a great high protein snack item for the upcoming busy Fall season!

  • Beef Biltong (Available in Original & Spiced: $11.99 / 2oz)
    • Award-winning South African-style biltong made from 100% grass-fed, regeneratively raised beef. 
    • Sourced from partner ranches committed to restoring soil health, protecting biodiversity, and supporting watershed systems. 
    • Free from hormones and antibiotics, with zero sugar and nothing artificial, and marinated in persimmon vinegar for a rich, savory flavor and tender texture.
  • Naturally Fermented Persimmon Vinegar ($18.99 / 12.7 fl.oz): 
    • Elevated alternative to apple cider vinegar, crafted from California-grown persimmons and naturally rich in antioxidants. 
    • Balances delicate sweetness with tangy acidity, adding bright, complex flavor to salads, marinades, tonics, cocktails, and more.

Figure Ate Foods is also offering 15% off sitewide with code STOCKUP15 until September 7th. So check them out!

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this seasonal post. Images were also provided.

It’s Time for Back to School!

A Must-Have this school year!

The back-to-school season is all about getting organized, and adding a simple hand-cleaning solution to your family’s routine can make a big difference.

Handzies delivers a true soap-and-water clean in a convenient wipe. Made with natural castile soap, water, and essential oils, Handzies helps keep hands fresh and clean throughout busy school days from the lunchroom and playground to after-school sports and activities.

Handzies wipes are made without alcohol, BZK, triclosan, artificial fragrances, and dyes. Plus, they’re compostable, biodegradable, vegan, and non-GMO because effective clean should also be gentle on people and the planet.

Whether you’re stocking backpacks, packing lunches, or preparing classroom supplies, Handzies makes it easy to bring a soap-and-water clean wherever the school year takes you.

Created with conscious consumers in mind, each wipe is 100% plant-based and cruelty-free, vegan, NON-GMO, and gluten-free. Manufactured in the USA in an FDA-licensed, EPA-registered, NSF-certified facility that’s also FSC and Rainforest Alliance Certified.

Available in 30-count soft-packs, 24 individually wrapped towelettes, or an extra-large family bundle. 

I love to keep these in my car and in my yoga bag!

Learn more at handzies.com. You can also find Handzies on Amazon.

Be Ready for the School Day with KEEP>GOING 

As kids head back to the classroom, playground scrapes, bumps, and little mishaps are bound to happen. That’s why the KEEP>GOING First Aid Dino GoKit is a roarsome back-to-school must-have, bringing peace of mind to parents, teachers, and caregivers wherever the school year takes them.

Packed with 130 first aid essentials in a fun dinosaur-themed case, the Dino GoKit is designed to make first aid less intimidating for little ones while keeping supplies organized and ready when needed. Compact enough for backpacks, classrooms, sports bags, and family outings, it’s the perfect companion for everyday adventures.

From the first day of school to after-school activities, the Dino GoKit helps families stay prepared for life’s minor emergencies. It’s a practical, kid-friendly addition to any back-to-school checklist!

Browse the collection on the website at keepgoingfirstaid.com. Also available on Amazon.

This is soooo good!

Alter Eco Granola + Oat Clusters — Whether for breakfast, lunchboxes or an afternoon snack kids can feel good about, Alter Eco has you covered. Each bite of the brand’s classic granola and new Oat Clusters are made with wholesome ingredients, and the Oat Clusters are made with granola and the rich eco-friendly chocolate Alter Eco is known for. I love the taste of the new Oat Clusters! A new favorite to go to snack!

Yummy snack for both kids and adults!

According to the 2020 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee Scientific Report, only about 6% of Americans consume the recommended amount of fiber, even as protein claims continue to dominate grocery shelves and social media.

Festive Chickpeas naturally help bridge both gaps, delivering 10 grams of plant-based protein and 8 grams of fiber per bag…all from real chickpeas, with no added protein powders, concentrates or isolates.

Beyond the nutrition, Festive Chickpeas are one of those rare pantry staples that work just about anywhere. They’re the perfect grab-and-go snack for beach days, summer road trips, hikes, sporting events and afternoon cravings. As families begin thinking about back-to-school, they’re also an easy lunchbox addition that both kids and adults can enjoy.

And they’re not just for snacking. Their satisfying crunch makes them a flavorful topper for salads, soups and grain bowls, while their bold flavors and texture make them a welcome addition to charcuterie boards and entertaining spreads. Whether enjoyed straight from the bag or incorporated into a favorite recipe, Festive Chickpeas offer a delicious way to add naturally occurring protein and fiber to everyday meals and snacks.

As consumers continue looking for simple, whole-food ingredients that deliver more nutritional value, Festive Chickpeas are proof that you don’t have to choose between convenience, flavor and nutrition…you can have all three.

I love these! I still can’t decide which one is my favorite flavor! I do like the Honey BBQ! I think I’m addicted to them now!

Festive Chickpeas are available on Amazon, Walmart.com, SnackFestive.com and specialty retailers and health bars.

Aren’t these the cutest?

 Kenzley Ballet Flats – Polished enough for school, comfortable enough for all-day wear

A go-to flat that doesn’t need a break-in period—not only are they adorable, but they’re also incredibly comfortable right out of the box. With a structured yet flexible sole and a supportive insole, these are designed to handle everything from classroom time to after-school activities without foot fatigue. The breathable lining and padded collar help prevent rubbing, something reviewers frequently call out “It’s great for active toddlers.” The T-strap includes a hook and loop closure under the classic silver buckle which makes them very easy to get on and off. These are super cute and comfy as well!

Something fun!

Sticki Mates (MSRP $6.99 | Ages 5+ | Available at Target ): The perfect collectible companion to clip onto your backpack, lunch box and more! Simply pull and tear the Kawaii-inspired stickers from the Sticki Rolls dispenser. Then either personalize your school gear or trade your Sticki with a friend! 6 different Sticki Mates characters to collect.  These are so much fun for kids!

Stay tuned! Next week, I will be posting some great back-to-school suggestions for the older kids!

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this seasonal post. Images were also provided.

More Summer Fun for the Kids!

Smart Games IQ Flow

SmartGames IQ Flow by Smart Toys & Games 

MSRP: $14.99 | Ages 7+ | Available at Specialty Toy Stores & Amazon 

Smart Games IQ Flow is an addictive travel puzzle game that challenges players to solve 120 progressive challenges ranging from easy to expert. IQ Flow provides hours of engaging brain-building fun, developing essential STEM skills like logical thinking, spatial reasoning, concentration, and problem-solving.

Each challenge requires players to slide the pieces onto the board correctly to form an uninterrupted path across the grid. Complete with a compact case that’s perfect for travel, commuting, classrooms, or quiet time at home. This is just perfect for summer travel! It’s a lot of fun for adults and kids, and it doesn’t take up much room when packing for travel. It will also get kids off screen time…

PLAYMOBIL Balloon Ride

PLAYMOBIL Balloon Ride
MSRP: $39.99 | Ages 4-10 | Available June 15 on Amazon 

A classic hot air balloon adventure that combines imaginative storytelling, exploration, and open-ended play in one eye-catching set! The new PLAYMOBIL Balloon Ride is the perfect backdrop for imaginative stories and exciting role-playing games. With a clever tiger keeping watch and a cheerful cockatoo perched on the ropes, there’s never a dull moment in the air. Attach the sandbags, ladders, and anchor wherever you like to customize your adventure. As a bonus: You can even hang the balloon from the ceiling for dreamy flights in the playroom. 

This is a great gift for ages 4+, and I love that it promotes imaginative play!

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this post. Images were also provided.