ParentsKids
27 Under-$30 Toys Kids Are 'Obsessed' With from Amazon
2024-12-11
Amazon offers a wide range of popular kids' toys that are sure to bring joy and entertainment. From hide-and-seek gadgets to baking sets and fidget toys, there's something for every child.

Discover the Best Amazon Kids' Toys for Endless Fun

Silly Poopy’s Hide and Seek

Take turns hiding this rainbow-colored gadget around the house. It shouts clues and plays a song when found. Relatable, a small business, sells card games/toys, plushies, and pool floats.My 6- and 3-year-old are extremely obsessed. They play for at least an hour daily since getting it. When it's my turn to hide, I make it challenging enough that I can be productive until it's my turn again. ($12.99 at Amazon)

A miniature baking set with a 48-page recipe book

This set comes with a storage tin, rolling pin, wee knife, pizza/dough cutter, mixing spoon, three wee spoons, mixing bowl, pizza/pie pan, pie server, sheet pan, silicone cake and cupcake molds, two silicone finger mitts, and a 48-page recipe book.My 9-year-old daughter loves it - she's actually obsessed! Everything is durable and the recipes are simple to follow. She takes over the kitchen and does everything by herself. She makes delicious cinnamon rolls, apple pies, pizzas, etc. Every kid needs one of these! ($27.99 at Amazon)

A set of Globbles

A huge hit with children, especially those with autism or sensory issues. They're not exploding or peeling paint. Christmas morning was pure joy for one child, and the whole family joined in the fun. ($11.74 at Amazon)

An interactive scissor skills activity pad

My son is obsessed with this activity scissor kit. The scissors are perfect for toddlers and are not dangerous. There are many pages to cut, and each page is an activity to play with repeatedly. Love this item! ($7.99 at Amazon)

A lightweight LCD writing tablet

I purchased this as a gift for my 2-year-old daughter, and she is obsessed - so am I! It's mess-free, non-toxic, and provides endless coloring fun. With one push of a button, she has a clean slate. The clearing function has a locking feature to prevent erasing. Highly recommend! ($19.99 at Amazon)

A pack of tangle-free parachute toys

My son loves playing with them and hasn't put them down since we received them. They are tangle-free and provide endless entertainment. ($9.29 at Amazon)

A value pack of 500+ puffy stickers

My 1.5-year-old is obsessed with these stickers. They're not sticky enough to do any damage but can be reused a few times. I love that they are removable and can be placed back on the plastic sheet. ($7.99 at Amazon)

A bestselling Take Along Tunes toy

My son has been obsessed with this toy since he was old enough to hit the button. It's endlessly entertaining and essential. Even now that he's almost 2, he still loves it. The sticker has become worn with use. ($8.99 at Amazon)

A logic puzzle Gravity Maze

My 10-year-old son is obsessed with this game. He loves figuring out each maze and using problem-solving skills and logic. It's a great toy for an only child when parents can't entertain them every minute. He chooses this over video games! ($22.99 at Amazon)

A sprinkle whale bath toy with colorful flashing lights

We got this for our 5-month-old as he loves to try and hold/catch running water. He still loves it at 8 months old. There are sensors on the bottom that turn it on when it hits water and shut off when it needs to be charged. A definite bathtub favorite! ($11.99+ at Amazon)

A colorful wooden puzzle to bring Tetris-like delight

My toddler is obsessed! The construction is solid, and the pieces are well-finished with no splinters or uneven cuts. He loves assembling different arrangements each time. ($9.99 at Amazon)

A game of Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza

This game is a hit! My 5-year-old is obsessed, and my teenage sisters fought over who got to bring it to camp, so I had to buy two copies. It's a fun party game that guarantees laughs. ($9.97 at Amazon)

A set of satisfying tempera paint sticks

These are my favorite art accessory ever! My girls are obsessed and can use them on paper, rocks, etc. We can't get enough. ($22.48 at Amazon)

Or a nostalgic scratch paper art set

My kids are obsessed with these. They can make their own designs, and there are plenty of papers. ($9.99 at Amazon)

An at-home scavenger hunt

Mollybee Kids is a family-run small business creating high-quality toys. My 2-year-old son is obsessed with the 'find you' game. He thinks hard and runs me through the house to find the object. Highly recommended! ($12.99 at Amazon)

A gorgeous Ariel Barbie doll

The doll is gorgeous with a well-done face sculpt and makeup, and a super detailed tail. My kid is obsessed, and I have zero complaints. ($14.99 at Amazon)

A silicone teething toy with a pacifier clip

My 5-month-old son is obsessed with it. I love the neutral colors and how easy it is to clean. We can clip it onto the Baby Björn or car seat. It's of great quality. ($16.99 at Amazon)

An itty-bitty Baby Yoda Bluetooth speaker

Bought this for my husband on Father's Day, but my kids (4/6) are obsessed. It's small, easy to carry, and the sound is good and clear. The price is great too! ($19.74 at Amazon)

A pair of GeoSafari kid binoculars

I got a set for my girls (3.5 and 1.5), and they are obsessed. We use them on hikes and at the zoo. I tied the string together as the anti-choke clasp kept coming undone. ($14.99 at Amazon)

A too-cute “Make a Fox Friend” kit

My niece was obsessed with this. It was a minor gift among other fun things, but it became her favorite. My sister-in-law now buys it as a gift for kid parties. ($19.99 at Amazon)

A mini Waving Inflatable Tube Guy

My youngest loves seeing these guys everywhere. We got her a little one, and she's obsessed with having her own. It's made of great material, and the fan is strong. ($8.58 at Amazon)

A LeapFrog 100 Words Book

My baby has been obsessed with this since getting it. She can flip through the pages herself and loves touching the words she knows. It's built tough. ($13.99 at Amazon)

A pack of Mini Brands mystery balls

My 8-year-old daughter is obsessed with these. She uses them to play with her dolls as food. It's adorable to watch her play. I even join in. ($10.77+ at Amazon)

A mesmerizing fidget cube

I bought one for myself as a fidget desk object and found it entertaining. My 5-, 6-, and 7-year-old found it and are obsessed. They were fighting to play with it, so I ordered three more. Awesome product! ($25 at Amazon)

A sophisticated wooden piano

My 1-year-old is obsessed! I love that it will grow with her. Right now, she just loves the music and sounds, but later she can learn from the cards. ($28.14 at Amazon)

A Disney necklace activity set

My 4-year-old is so obsessed with this product that she has made me five or six different things. She really loves being creative. Great product for the price. ($14.99 at Amazon)
How Holiday Stress Affects Kids and Ways to Cope
2024-12-11
During the holiday season, a parent's to-do list seems to stretch endlessly. Buying gifts, scheduling activities, and decorating - it all takes a toll. This stress not only affects parents but can also spill over onto their children, leading to various issues. Let's explore how to make this holiday season less stressful for both.

Holiday Stress Affects Most Parents

According to a study by the American Psychological Association, two out of five American adults experience higher stress levels between November and January. As many as 89% worry about finances and family conflicts. The approaching holidays bring a busy social calendar, increased shopping, and financial pressures. Juggling all these tasks can significantly raise a parent's stress. Research by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that stress leads to changes in sleep, appetite, and energy. It can also cause anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. In the end, stress takes away the joy of the holidays, and children are not immune to it.

Many Parents Feel Pressure Around the Holidays

The holiday season is a time of excitement but also a source of stress. With a packed social calendar, parents find themselves constantly on the go. Shopping trips become more frequent, and paychecks seem to disappear. Hosting gatherings, meeting work deadlines, and attending school parties add to the pressure. It's a juggling act that can leave parents feeling overwhelmed. This stress can have a negative impact on their physical and mental health.

Your Holiday Stress Can Affect The Kids, Too

Children are highly attuned to their parents' emotions. They can sense the stress around the holidays and it can create a disconnect between parents and kids. This may lead to mental and physical symptoms of stress. Other factors like overstimulation from school activities and changes in routines can also trigger a child's holiday stress. If children perceive their parents' high stress levels, they may believe that the holidays should be a tense and unenjoyable time. This can carry into adulthood as children learn through observation and imitation.

Signs Your Child Is Feeling Stressed

It's important to recognize the signs of stress in children. Excessive fussing or crying, increased worry or anxiety, withdrawing from favorite activities, and more fearful reactions than usual are common. Changes in sleep and eating patterns, clinginess, and physical symptoms like stomachaches or headaches can also indicate stress. For children with existing health problems like asthma or eczema, stress can cause flares.

How to Enjoy a Stress-Free Holiday Season

Sticking to a familiar routine during the holidays can provide stability. Don't over-schedule the family's calendar; leave some free time for relaxation. Replace stressful traditions with low-key ones. Schedule daily relaxation time by reading books, playing board games, or watching movies. Keep a good sleep schedule even during school breaks. Continue to exercise and eat healthy food to nourish the body. Talk to friends or family about your stress; sharing can be helpful. Listen to your kids if they want to skip an event. Ask for help when hosting gatherings and make it easier by catering meals. Remember to take breaks from the holiday hype.

Key Takeaways

As Botwin suggests, parents should be aware of their stress levels and set boundaries. Focus on spending quality time with family instead of giving in to the pressure to do too much. This is the key to fostering healthy connections and enjoying the holiday season.
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8 Beauty Trends to Embrace in 2025: Runway-Inspired Looks
2024-12-11
As the calendar turns and a new year unfolds, it brings with it a sense of renewal in the realms of fashion and beauty. Just like the turning of a page, we are presented with a plethora of emerging trends waiting to be explored and embraced.

Unlock the Beauty of 2025 with These Defining Trends

Whimsical Floral Hair Arrangements

1: Floral hair arrangements have made a grand comeback in 2025. Imagine delicate blossoms intertwined with your locks, adding a touch of nature's beauty to your overall look. From small daisies to large peonies, these floral accents can transform an ordinary hairstyle into a work of art. Whether it's a simple braid with a flower crown or a full-blown floral headpiece, the possibilities are endless. 2: Not only do floral hair arrangements enhance the aesthetic appeal, but they also bring a sense of freshness and lightness. They can be paired with various outfits, from casual summer dresses to elegant evening gowns. The soft colors and gentle scents of the flowers create a soothing and romantic atmosphere, making you feel like a true flower princess.

Balmy Blush

1: Balmy blush is a must-have for the 2025 beauty scene. This soft and warm shade adds a healthy glow to the cheeks, giving a natural and radiant look. It can be applied in different ways to achieve various effects. For a subtle flush, use a light brush to dust it on the apples of the cheeks. If you want a more intense look, build up the color gradually. 2: Balmy blush works well with both daytime and nighttime looks. During the day, it gives a fresh and youthful appearance, while at night, it adds a touch of sophistication. It pairs beautifully with other makeup elements such as neutral eyeshadows and nude lipsticks, creating a harmonious and balanced look.

The Return of Frosty Blue Eyeshadow

1: Frosty blue eyeshadow is making a strong comeback in 2025. This icy hue adds a cool and ethereal touch to the eyes, making them stand out. It can be used as a base color or layered with other shades for a more dramatic effect. Whether you prefer a soft pastel blue or a bold electric blue, there is a frosty blue eyeshadow to suit every style. 2: Frosty blue eyeshadow is particularly popular for evening looks or when you want to make a statement. It pairs well with dark lips and smoky eyeliner, creating a bold and glamorous look. However, it can also be toned down for a more subtle daytime look by using a lighter hand and pairing it with soft pink or peach lips.

The Rise of Rainbow Mascara

1: Rainbow mascara is taking the beauty world by storm in 2025. This innovative product allows you to create a multi-colored lash effect, adding a fun and playful touch to your eyes. With a variety of colors available, from pastels to bright hues, you can mix and match to create your own unique look. 2: Rainbow mascara is not only a fashion statement but also a way to express your individuality. It can be used for special occasions or simply to add some fun to your everyday makeup. The best part is that it is easy to apply and can be removed with regular makeup remover. So, go ahead and let your lashes shine in all their colorful glory!

Other Notable Trends

1: In addition to the above-mentioned trends, 2025 also brings a host of other exciting beauty developments. From innovative skincare products to unique makeup formulas, there is something for everyone. Keep an eye out for the latest advancements in the beauty industry and embrace the new possibilities. 2: These trends are not just about looking good; they are also about feeling confident and expressing yourself. By experimenting with different looks and products, you can discover new aspects of your personality and enhance your overall self-esteem. So, go ahead and dive into the world of 2025 beauty!
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