Parents - December 2020 by Lawrence Ambrocio

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R AI S IN G THE FUTU RE

CONTENTS

I N E V E RY I S S U E 8 Editor’s Note 11 Playbook 112 Giggles

KI D S 19 Toddler Strategies With Teenager Payoffs Lay the groundwork for a happier, communicative adolescent (with fewer eye rolls), starting now.

26 This Year’s Storytime Standouts Kids judged the top books of 2020—here’s how the 30 winners stacked up. 34 Colds and Flu in Anxious Times What will this year’s sniffles season look like? Health experts advise. 38 Health News How to get clammed-up kids to talk about their feelings, and more 40 The Peanut Puzzle A dad doctor explains the latest on this nut allergy. 45 45 Toys That Wow Just in time for the holidays, families tested more than 500 new releases to crown these Most Captivating.

Insta-Graham Cuteness Made with graham crackers, this spin on the gingerbread house is as doable as it is adorable. 56 Animal House! Meet Zuri and her cat, Skye.

YO U 59 Gifts Every Mom Wants Our beauty editors found a perfect little something for each of your parent pals. 64 Sparkle Saves the Day After months of basic makeup, a little shimmer offers a way to celebrate.

66 The Mom Friend We All Need Comedian Michelle Buteau—interviewed by dream collaborator Wanda Sykes (!)—is the fun we’ve been missing. 72 The Act of Kindness That Touched Our Family This Year One grand-prize winner and six essay finalists share real-life tales of compassion in 2020.

LI FE 79 A Month of Merry! Easy and inexpensive new traditions for making holiday memories

ON THE COVER Michelle Buteau with her twins, Hazel and Otis, 20 months. Photograph by Silja Magg. Wardrobe styling by Annie Caruso. Set design by Todd Wiggins. Hairstyling by Kyrsten Oriol. Makeup by Latisha Rankin. Manicure by Frances Liang. Child wrangling by Kaysh Shinn. On Michelle: Jumpsuit, Suzie Kondi. Shoes, Loeffler Randall. Bracelet, Alexis Bittar. Earrings, Lizzie Fortunato. On Hazel: Top, Zara. Bloomers, Les Gamins. On Otis: Pajamas, Chasing Windmills. Lettering by Claudia de Almeida.

86 Season’s Treatings Sparkly, colorful, and super-yummy cookies the kids will want to bake with you 98 Save My Space Hacks for protecting the Christmas tree from your kids (and Buster’s paws)

100 Comfort & Joy From French bread pizza to snack mix, recipes to match the laid-back vibes of winter break

AG E S + STAG E S 109 0–2 Years Help kids start bopping to and learning music. 109 3–4 Years Teach the importance of dialing 911. 110 5–6 Years Make losing at games easier to deal with. 110 7+ Years Develop their typing skills.

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2020

What’s the best toy of all time?

“It’s a tie between Barbie dolls and Little People. My friends and I made houses and got lost playing for hours.”

“My American Girl doll, Felicity, which still sits on a shelf at my mom’s house. I sewed her outfits and did her hair.”

Executive Creative Director AGNETHE GLATVED Executive Editor MIRANDA VAN GELDER Managing Editor PATRICK MOFFITT Deputy Editor DIANE DEBROVNER Food and Lifestyle Director YOLANDA WIKIEL Beauty Director KATE SANDOVAL BOX Senior Editor, Features KATIE ARNOLD-RATLIFF Senior Editor, Books and Travel KAREN CICERO Entertainment Editor JESSICA HARTSHOR N Staff Health Editor EMILY ELVERU Associate Editor, Beauty SHANNON M. BAUER Editorial Assistant KYLEIGH LEDDY ART & PRODUCTION Art Director EMILY FURLANI Associate Art Director JAMIE LEE Senior Designer MARIA FERNANDEZ-DAVILA Art Assistant AVA BRAMSON Production Director VINCENT M. SPINA PHOTO

“The Easy-Bake Oven. I loved all the little pans and cake mixes and felt like a real pastry chef!

Photo Director MARY CLARE CAHILL Photo Editor JOANNA MUENZ Photo Coordinator MAGGIE BLATTEL Associate Photo Editor ERIKA THOMPSON RESEARCH & COPY Research Director BARBARA BRANDON-CROFT Copy Chief JEAN RODIE Copy Editor SHELLEY WOLSON Test Kitchen Project Manager LINDA BREWER, R.D.N. Deputy Managing Editor TARA LUSTBERG Executive Operations Coordinator, Office of Editor-in-Chief ADRIENNE FARR

“LEGO! Ideating, building, destroying, and doing it all over again. What could be better ?”

MARK JOSEPHSON Senior Vice President, Group Publisher Sales Manager, Meredith Parents Network DONNA LINDSKOG ADVERTISING SALE S West Coast Director JULIE BANFIELD Advertising Sales Staff ALYSSA CRAMER COHEN, CATHERINE DAUN, ANNE GILHOOL, MOLLY THOMPSON, MARIA TOCCO TORRES, NADINE WAXENBERG Assistant BRITTON FORKER Sales Director, Direct Media TYLER HUB National Travel Director MELISSA LUEBBE Senior Research Manager ALISON JAYE MARKETING Group Marketing Director KRISTEN STUCCHIO-SUAREZ Senior Marketing Manager JUDY SCHIFFMAN Marketing Manager MARNIE DOWLER Marketing Coordinator DIANA ZULUAGA Group Creative Director JEANETTE CHOW Art Director TRACY D’AGOSTINO Associate Art Director DAVID L. TRACY A D M I N I S T R AT I O N Executive Business Director JANICE CROAT Business Manager MEGAN WOOD Advertising Business Manager BOB PARLAPIANO Consumer Marketing Manager RACHEL BLACK Production Director MELANIE STOLTENBERG Production Manager COURTNEY PETERSON Advertising Production Supervisor ALI FELSENTHAL Director of Quality JOSEPH KOHLER Quality Analyst BEN ANDERSON Prepress Desktop Specialist GREG FAIRHOLM

“My Cookie Monster plush. I got him the only time my dad told me to pick any toy in the store. He has rattle eyes; he’s the embodiment of me to this day.”

Contributing Editors ANNA HELM BAXTER, DAPHNE de MARNEFFE, Ph.D., SALLY KUZEMCHAK, R.D., ERIN ZAMMETT RUDDY, COLBY SHARP, VIRGINIA SOLE-SMITH D I G I TA L

Executive Editor JULIA DENNISON Deputy Editor MELISSA BYKOFSKY Senior SEO Editor LIZ LASHWAY Features Editor ANNA HALKIDIS Social Media Editor GILLIAN NIGRO SEO Writer NICOLE HARRIS Associate Editor LIBBY RYAN Associate Producer FRANCESCA SPATOLA ADVISORY B OARD Pediatrics ARI BROWN, M.D., DAVID L. HILL, M.D., HARVEY KARP, M.D., JANE MORTON, M.D., NATALIE D. MUTH, M.D., M.P.H., R.D.N., IRWIN REDLENER, M.D., MICHAEL RICH, M.D., M.P.H., HARLEY A. ROTBART, M.D., DARSHAK SANGHAVI, M.D., JENNIFER SHU, M.D., WENDY SUE SWANSON, M.D., M.B.E. Nutrition JILL CASTLE, R.D.N., CONNIE DIEKMAN, R.D. Mental Health DAVID FASSLER, M.D., HAROLD S. KOPLEWICZ, M.D., REBECCA LANDA, Ph.D., TIMOTHY L. VERDUIN, Ph.D. Environmental Health AARON BERNSTEIN, M.D., M.P.H., PHILIP LANDRIGAN, M.D. Dentistry LEZLI LEVENE HARVELL, D.M.D. Child Development and Behavior LISA DAMOUR, Ph.D., “My middle son WAYNE FLEISIG, Ph.D., EILEEN KENNEDY-MOORE, Ph.D., loved crayons and WENDY MOGEL, Ph.D., MICHAEL THOMPSON, Ph.D. Women’s Health ALICE D. DOMAR, Ph.D., drawing. The MARJORIE GREENFIELD, M.D., LAURA RILEY, M.D., stories he told about ALEXANDRA SACKS, M.D. the pictures Education and Child Care DEBORAH STIPEK, Ph.D., were better than the CATHY VATTEROTT, Ph.D. drawings.” Allergy WILLIAM E. BERGER, M.D., HUGH SAMPSON, M.D. Emergency Medicine and Safety MARTIN EICHELBERGER, M.D., WENDY L. HUNTER, M.D., GARY A. SMITH, M.D., Dr.P.H. Sleep JODI MINDELL, Ph.D., JUDITH OWENS, M.D. Dermatology LAWRENCE F. EICHENFIELD, M.D., JODY ALPERT LEVINE, M.D.

“A Nerf soccer ball. My neighbor and I would practice taking shots at each another, and no one ever got hurt!”

MEREDITH NATIONAL MEDIA GROUP President, Meredith Magazines DOUG OLSON President, Consumer Products TOM WITSCHI President, Chief Digital Officer CATHERINE LEVENE Chief Business and Data Officer ALYSIA BORSA Chief Revenue Officer MICHAEL BROWNSTEIN Marketing and Integrated Communications NANCY WEBER

Senior Vice Presidents Consumer Revenue ANDY WILSON Corporate Sales BRIAN KIGHTLINGER Research Solutions BRITTA CLEVELAND Strategic Sourcing, Newsstand, Production CHUCK HOWELL Digital Sales MARLA NEWMAN The Foundry MATT PETERSEN Product and Technology JUSTIN LAW Vice Presidents Finance CHRIS SUSIL Business Planning and Analysis ROB SILVERSTONE Consumer Marketing STEVE CROWE Brand Licensing TOYE CODY, SONDRA NEWKIRK Corporate Communications JILL DAVISON

“Always a book!”

Vice President, Group Editorial Director LIZ VACCARIELLO Director, Editorial Operations and Finance ALEXANDRA BREZ MEREDITH CORPORATION President and Chief Executive Officer TOM HARTY Chief Financial Officer JASON FRIEROTT Chief Development Officer JOHN ZIESER Chief Strategy Officer DAPHNE KWON President, Meredith Local Media Group PATRICK McCREERY Senior Vice President, Human Resources DINA NATHANSON Chairman STEPHEN M. LACY Vice Chairman MELL MEREDITH FRAZIER

© Copyright Meredith Corporation 2020. All rights reserved. Parents is a registered trademark of Meredith Corporation, registered at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Executive, editorial, and advertising offices: 225 Liberty Street, New York, NY 10281. Email: writeus@parents.com. Submission of your material constitutes permission for Meredith Corporation to allow its use in any media. Subscribers please note: Our subscribers list is occasionally made available to carefully selected firms whose products may be of interest to you. If you prefer not to receive info from these companies by mail or by phone, please let us know. Send your request and your mailing label to Parents Customer Service, P.O. Box 37508, Boone, IA 50037-0508. Subscription help: Visit us at parents.com/myaccount, email pmmcustserv@cdsfulfillment.com, or call 800-727-3682. For syndication or international licensing requests or reprint and reuse permission, email syndication@meredith.com. Printed in the U.S.A.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT: AVERY POWELL; CHUSHKIN/GETTY IMAGES; HUDIEMM/GETTY IMAGES; MONIAPHOTO/GETTY IMAGES; CONSTANTINOSZ/GETTY IMAGES.

JULIA EDELSTEIN Editor-in-Chief

TRIPLE THE CARE FOR YOUR LITTLE BEAR FROM THE TRUSTED EXPERTS AT VICKS®

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EDITOR’S NOTE

PICKING THE BEST BOOKS AND T OYS O F 2 0 2 0 Testers read 250-plus books and played with more than 500 toys to help us compile the lists on pages 26 and 45.

“ D I D YO U C H E C K

the car? Did you look under the seats? We need to find it!” I won’t soon forget that rainy day in June when I breathlessly interrogated my husband over the phone. I’d been ransacking our house for days—hunting not for missing papers or a lost wedding ring, but for the key to my pandemic sanity: a Transformers toy named Heatwave. Train tracks and MagnaTiles, paint and crayons ... they can all engage my 3-year-old, Gabriel. But three months into the pandemic, only a robot fire truck had proved capable of keeping him busy without a grownup’s help. Heatwave, along with the copious amount of screen time I suddenly let Gabriel have, enabled me to

PA R E N T S

8 DECEMBER

2020

edit this magazine in the many months before child care was a viable option. More important, that plastic figure enthralled and comforted my son at a time when his familiar routines and the community beyond our home had vanished from his view. Heatwave in hand, Gabriel had fun and went on adventures, free from the anxiety the adults in the room were radiating. That’s the undeniable power of a favorite toy. Even a global pandemic can’t touch it. But as we all know, children grow, obsessions fade, and sometimes parents have to refresh the toy collection to stoke their kids’ imagination. Enter Parents’ 2020 toy guide. I’ve got a hunch that your child’s next

Grace, 2, asked to read Mail Duck over and over.

Isaiah, 9, tore through 12 books in one month.

Blue the Dog became a quarantine BFF to Madison, 4.

My son Joey, 6, and my nephew Zachary, 7, played the board game Trailz for days.

Follow Me on Instagram Simply hover your phone’s camera over the smart code to catch my feed and see me raising my boys while making this magazine.

We’re here to help. Email JuliaE@parents.com to tell me about the topics you’d like to see in future issues of Parents.

JULIA: PETER ARDITO. HAIR AND MAKEUP BY LINDSEY WILLIAMS. TESTERS: COURTESY OF THEIR FAMILIES.

The Toys That Saved Our Year

favorite plaything—the one that will spark endless make-believe and that they’ll drag all over the house this winter—is waiting in this annual list. Personal proof: Gabriel’s current fixation (well, tied with Heatwave, whose chunky red frame Andrew eventually found behind the shower curtain) is the fire truck on page 45 that converts into a command station. My older son, Joey, fell hard for the dinosaur enclosure (page 49), complete with a working crane, a removable net, and a giant Brachiosaurus. This year has been the first stretch of time in recent memory when many kids, my boys included, stopped being overscheduled and truly had time to play. And I’d go so far as to say that watching my two pore over their toys, seeing them pretend and draw and invent, has been my own personal Heatwave—the one thing that consistently lifted me out of my 2020 funk. I need more of these blissful moments this month, so I’m letting our toy list (and let’s be real, our cookie recipes, starting on page 86) be my guide. We may not get to travel this holiday season, but we can always be transported by our children’s joy.

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LET THERE BE DELIGHT!

Flurry in a Hurry Think of these lava-lamp-looking jars as a science-class take on the homemade snow globe, minus having to pick glitter flecks out of your sisal rug afterward. Sarah McClelland, of LittleBinsForLittleHands.com, a website of kids’ STEM activities, explains that the jars, made with paint and oil, offer a lesson in liquid densities: Bubbles drag dense paint up to the oil surface, where they pop—then paint sinks down through the water. How to make ’em: Mix 1 teaspoon of washable white paint and 1 cup of water in a large jar, then add baby oil almost to the top. Break an Alka-Seltzer tablet into pieces and drop them in one at a time. Sit back and let it snow!

photograph by J O H N N Y M I L L E R

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2020

P L AY B O O K

THE SHORT LIST This month’s lineup of what’s new,novel, and nice to know

/ I F YO U A S K M E /

“A few families in my town podded up, and my kid wasn’t invited. He is heartbroken. I am fuming. What do we do now?”

Quality time, 2020-style: Dance, lip-synch, and prank your way through The TikTok Challenge. The set of 100 cards offers more than 200 activities for you and your kids to shoot, upload, and (maybe, just maybe) go viral. $15; amazon.com

Dip in and out of hilarious essays and poems from Rachel Bloom. In her new book, I Want to Be Where the Normal People Are, the star and cocreator of Crazy Ex-Girlfriend expounds on being the weird kid, her Disney obsession, and how she wouldn’t poop in a toilet until age 4. Her growing pains will have you rolling—and perhaps relating to your kids a bit more. $28; amazon.com

I’m currently in a pod. We weren’t able to include everyone due to size, scheduling, and cost restrictions. It was a difficult decision, and we couldn’t take into account every family’s needs even though we wanted to. Parenting during COVID-19 feels very different from how a community normally operates, where we all take care of each other in a fluid way. Now we can still try to do that (as long as it is safe), but, naturally, emotions are high. Try to put yourself in your friends’ shoes and empathize. If you’re not ready for that, simply give yourself time to reflect and focus on self-care. —Angela Belt, interior designer, host of The Moodboard podcast; West Hartford, CT @_angelabelt

It may feel targeted, but before jumping to that conclusion, try reaching out to one of the mothers to ask if you can join. A lot of times we feel purposely left out, but instead, just like us, other moms may have “mom brain” or may feel that you’re too busy and not think to ask. Try not to take offense before figuring out what happened. There are many online groups where you can connect with like-minded moms and your children can have virtual playdates—it can be great for you and your kids. —Shanicia Boswell, founder of the Black Moms Blog; Atlanta, GA @shaniciaboswell

Assess the reasons behind the slight (exclusion often comes from a place of insecurity), and then lean into the rejection so you can let it go. Approach the others, asking calmly and without blame, if there’s room in the pod, or at least if the kids can have virtual playdates. If your child asks why they’re not part of their usual crew, explain that it’s a difficult time, and they’ll see friends virtually while staying safe. Bottom line: It hurts to be left out. Remember, when people exclude, it says more about them than you and your kids. When in doubt, make your own pod! —Stephanie Newman, Ph.D., psychologist and author of Barbarians at the PTA; New York, NY @stephanienewmanphd —Caylin Harris

/ LET IT GO /

Bellefixe Headbands are our current hair heroes. Slip on a pretty knotted one three seconds before your next video call, whether that’s a 9 a.m. presentation or a Zoom happy hour, and you’ll make a dry-shampooed bed head or hasty mom bun suddenly stylin’. $9.50 and up; bellefixe.com

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12 DECEMBER

2020

“Why even pick up their toys when they’re gonna move out in 18 to 30 years anyway?”—me cleaning @platinum2000

“THE SHORT LIST”: COURTESY OF THE BRANDS AND PUBLISHERS. “IF YOU ASK ME”: COURTESY OF THE SUBJECTS. “LET IT GO”: ISABEL PAVIA/GETTY.

Three parents, no wrong answers

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P L AY B O O K

/ THE ESSENTIALS /

BAKING WITH KIDS Stock the kitchen with just-right tools (in cool colors and shapes) to make all their cookie-making and pie-baking dreams come true.

WRAP A GIFT R EC O M M E N D E D AG E : 5 A N D U P

Packaging a present in festive paper can be just as fun as receiving it (well, almost!). In an afternoon, your kid will be suited for Santa’s workshop.

1. The woodland creatures and fir tree in the Meri Meri Christmas Motif Cookie Cutters offer both a hit of cuteness and cozy winter vibes. $12; merimeri.com 2. Refrigerate icing, cookie dough, or pancake batter in these Williams Sonoma Flour Shop Melamine Mixing Bowls With Lids. The nesting rainbow set keeps things fresh—in every sense of the word. $60 for a set of six; williams-sonoma.com

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2020

3. The colorful Williams Sonoma Flour Shop Spatulas, part of a collab with sparkles-and-sprinklesloving baker Amirah Kassem, come in kid-friendly sizes so little hands can adeptly spread frosting (and scrape up leftovers for a taste). $50 for a set of two mini and one medium; williams-sonoma.com 4. Give kids ages 2 and up a boost to counter level with the wooden Guidecraft Classic Kitchen Helper

Stool, which adjusts to raise them from 15 to 18 inches. $170; guidecraft.com 5. Get all Chopped Junior in sharp-looking aprons and mitts. (Add a monogram or a name for free.) All proceeds from Golden Triangle Personalizable Aprons and Oven Mitt Set support Every Mother Counts, a nonprofit that aims to make pregnancy and childbirth safer. $38 for adults’ apron, $28 for kids’ apron, $18 for kids’ oven-mitt set; minted.com

2. Do some counting. Set the paper down, and ask your helper to count the grid squares between the paper’s edge and the box. Unroll more paper; count the same number of squares on the other side of the box and mark with a pencil. Using child-safe scissors, cut paper at this mark. Next, task your kid with sticking a few pieces of tape loosely to a table edge. 3. Meet in the middle. Have your child grasp the left side of the paper and lift it over the box, then the right, so they “kiss” in the center; tape in place. 4. Close up each end. Direct them to push sides of paper inward at one end, creating one triangular flap on the top and one on the bottom. Tape down each flap. Repeat on opposite end. 5. Add the flair! Decorate with ribbon, a bow, or stickers. Don’t forget to write the “to” and “from” on a gift tag. Source: Jen Harness, director of content and experience at Michaels.

“THE ESSENTIALS”: JEFFREY WESTBROOK. “WRAP A GIFT”: SANGA PARK/EYEEM/GETTY.

1. Let’s get (un)rolling. Paper with grid lines printed on the back (found at most retailers, including Amazon) will make life easier. Start by unfurling the paper with the grid facing up. Set a gift (a box ranging in size from a deck of cards to a board game is best for newbies) on top facedown. Ask your kid to pull the paper’s edge over to the box’s center.

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P L AY B O O K

/ THE HIGHS AND LOWS /

Carrie Underwood On her first-ever Christmas album, My Gift, Underwood trades verses with her 5-year-old, Isaiah, on “Little Drummer Boy” and with John Legend on the original tune he cowrote, “Hallelujah.” The Academy of Country Music Awards’ 2020 Entertainer of the Year also has an orchestra-backed holiday special coming out on HBO Max. But with live concerts postponed, Underwood has been home much of the year, jamming with Isaiah and 1-year-old Jacob, her sons with her husband, Mike Fisher. We asked Underwood to share a few of her parenting hits (and misses).

Nighttime. My boys are both extra cuddly and loving when they’re all clean from a bath and I’m either rocking Jake or saying prayers with Isaiah. The 15 minutes before each one of them goes to bed is magical.

Hardest time of the day ... Right when Isaiah wakes up. He is not a morning person, and neither am I! And if either of my kids is overtired, it’s not good. That’s when all reason goes out the window and the impulse behavior begins.

Best trait I passed to my kids ... Both boys got a love of music from me. They both love to sing, and Isaiah is so particular about what he wants to listen to in the car. It’s fun to see his musical tastes develop.

“We could not have guessed what would happen in the world, and how much we would all be ready for the hope and joy that Christmas music embodies.”

My parenting superpower ... Organization. I’m really great at buying the groceries, packing the lunches, keeping the appointments on track, making sure the homework is done, and generally keeping all the lives in order.

My parenting kryptonite ... I can have a hard time when my little shipmates are making the ship hard to sail! I don’t do well when one of my kids has a difficult time listening or I have to

repeat requests. And the whining. I’m sure any parent can relate!

I have this down to a science ... Loving my kids! Those boys are my whole world, and I would do anything for them. I want my sons to be happy and well-adjusted, kind, responsible humans.

I am still figuring out ... How to juggle. My work life is pretty busy and can be unpredictable. Sometimes things are so hectic, I feel as if I’m not as present as I would like to be for them. I tell myself that there are ebbs and flows. Sometimes I am crazybusy, and sometimes I have the luxury of being at home for longer periods of time, which many parents don’t have. Nevertheless, juggling can be hard, and I am still trying to work on cutting myself a little slack!

Challenging trait I passed to my kids ... Believe it or not, I can have a short fuse. I think Jake got that from me. When he gets frustrated because he can’t do something he wants to do or something isn’t working right for him, I know it’s the “me” in him.

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2020

My Gift hit No. 1 on the Billboard Top Holiday Albums chart.

FROM LEFT: COURTESY OF CARRIE UNDERWOOD; JOSEPH LLANES.

Best time of the day ...

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HELP THEM THRIVE I N E V E RY WAY

_ _ _ B E S T B O O K S A N D T OYS O F 2 0 2 0 _ _ _ _ _ _ _ PREP FOR FLU SEASON _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _T H E L AT E S T I N T E L O N F O O D A L L E R G I E S

Toddler Strategies With Teenager Payoffs For many parents, the vision of their sweet little ones turning into eye-rolling adolescents is enough to send a chill down the spine. But the infamous teen years aren’t as bad as they’re cracked up to be—and there are things you can do right now to make them easier. by J A N I C E K A P L A N photograph by P R I S C I L L A G R AG G PA R E N T S

19 D E C E M B E R

2020

K I D SÑB e h a v i o r

N O T L O N G AG O,

my friend Marni was playing tag at a local park with her 7-year-old son and 4-year-old daughter. They finished the game with shouts of laughter and a three-way hug—and as they started to leave, an older mom who’d been watching the family caught Marni’s eye. “Enjoy it now,” she said with a wry smile. “Pretty soon they’ll be teenagers and they won’t even talk to you.” What is it about teenagers that gets us so panicked? Will our darling cherubs really become sneering beasts once their age hits two digits? This stereotype does a disservice to everyone, says Kenneth Ginsburg, M.D., a pediatrician and the codirector of the Center for Parent and Teen Communication at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute. “If kids keep hearing that they’re going to turn into monsters when they hit adolescence, they’ll think they have to misbehave in order to be normal,” he says. “We need to change our view and think about adolescence in a more positive, helpful way.” Fortunately, the relationship you have when your kids are small sets the stage for their behavior later. You can think about parenting a little the way you would an investment portfolio, says Stephanie Carlson, Ph.D., a professor in the Institute of Child Development at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis. “When you spend time with your 2-yearold, you’re building and cultivating the developmental assets that will give the best ten-year return at age 12—or even longer-term, at age 22.” Enjoy your little kid now, and use these strategies to help assure a great payout ahead.

Laying a loving groundwork now makes for happier teen years later.

Create a hierarchy of rules. Young children generally assume that if Mom or Dad says it, you’re supposed to do it (even if you don’t want to). But teenagers are building independence, and their job is to question and often reject their parents’ positions. There’s nothing wrong with that, but there are still some things that are must-dos (or must-never-dos), and it helps your teen stay in line if you establish that some rules just aren’t up for debate.

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When your kids are young, explain that matters of health and safety are nonnegotiable. Your toddler has to travel in a car seat, wash their hands, and get vaccinations. But other topics should be open to discussion. If your child wants to wear shorts to your parents’ anniversary party, talk about it. Instead of making an absolute demand, explain your position (“Wearing nice clothes will make Grandpa happy”) and let them explain theirs (“I like my shorts!”). This shows kids that their opinions matter.

When they become teens, this system becomes even more important. Your 16-year-old new driver might not love your rule about only one passenger riding in the car but knows that when it comes to safety, there’s no discussion. They also know that on other matters, you’ll be open to talking out both sides. Your kid wants pink hair and you’re not thrilled by the idea? You’ll be able to comfortably raise your concern. They’ve learned that in convos with you, their voice counts, and that’s something every teen wants.

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Trust that they hear you. The idea of peer pressure is so prevalent that it’s easy to assume our kids will become mindless followers the second they reach middle school, our parental words of wisdom losing out to the lure of the crowd. But Dr. Ginsburg says that’s simply not the case. “What teens want more than anything is at least one adult who believes in them unconditionally but holds them to high standards,” he says. “They listen to us and care about what we think and say.” You can start being the kind of adult your future teenager needs right now. The unconditional love you feel for your baby or toddler never has to change. When they do something wrong as they get older, let them know that you’re there to help them do better. I was having lunch with a 4-year-old recently, and when he spilled his cup of water, he looked at me and said, “That’s okay. We can clean it up.” I laughed, realizing that he must have been repeating what his parents say to him. The message is, kids internalize what you tell them. Never underestimate the huge role you play in their psyches and how you can use that for good. Young kids are often delighted as they start making friends and discovering worlds beyond their parents, but that doesn’t mean you’ve been replaced. So let your standards be known. If one of your child’s classmates says, “We don’t play with girls,” tell your child you think it’s much better to have everyone play together. When kids hit their teen years, they begin to evaluate whose opinions mean the most to them, ranking them in priority the same way adults do. If you’ve shown your kid that you believe in them and expect them to rise to challenges, you can bet your voice will be high on that list of trusted sources.

head of the psychology department at Penn State, showed 2-year-olds novel situations like a puppet show or a remotecontrol spider. Those who got scared during the puppet show turned out to be most at risk for anxiety as teenagers. If your child tends to be among the criers at the puppet show, your natural reaction may be to take them away from scary situations. But being too protective, Dr. Buss says, can set up “a trajectory of more anxiety, not less,” because your child gets the message that they can’t cope on their own. Instead, help calm them, gently take their hand, and guide them back to the stressor, saying, “You can do this.”

Encourage a positive perspective.

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Help them cope with anxiety. How we interact with toddlers now can actually give them tools to grapple with stress years into the future. In one long-term study, Kristin A. Buss, Ph.D.,

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Similarly, if your second- or thirdgrader is nervous about going to a birthday party, Dr. Buss advises against keeping them home. Gently encourage your child to approach challenging situations so they gain confidence rather than letting the sources of anxiety become outsize in their mind. Those early interventions can give kids extra courage as they face what Dr. Buss calls “the anxiety peak of adolescence.” Let’s face it, seventh grade may never be the best year of a child’s life, but if children have been learning how to handle anxiety since they were small, they have a better chance of making a smooth transition to adolescence.

TODDLER NEVER HAS TO CHANGE.

Teenagers can seem overly dramatic, with every slight or snub treated like the end of the world. But kids who have had a lot of practice getting perspective are better at shrugging off small aggravations. Susan McCartan, mom of two daughters in Scottsdale, Arizona, played a game of “High-low” when her girls were young, encouraging each of them to describe the best and worst part of their day. Now that they are 16 and 18, McCartan thinks the early exercise has helped them feel more comfortable talking about disappointments, but also recognizing the positives. Toddlers respond well if you listen carefully when they complain, acknowledge the problem, and then help them see a solution. Your 5-year-old wants to draw an ocean and you only have an orange marker? You can sympathize with their frustration but then point out the good news—they can draw the fish that swim in the ocean! If children get in the habit early of seeing many sides to a problem, they have a better chance of handling the traumas of their teen years with a little perspective. “People always express sympathy when I tell them I have two teenage daughters,” McCartan says, “but I tell them, ‘Really, it’s fantastic!’ ” She modeled her values early on, and her children continue to join her in volunteer activities—like cooking meals for the

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homeless and playing with puppies at a local shelter. Now that they’re teens, giving back to others is something they can all share and has served as a way for the family to bond. Toddlers love doing things for others, so making altruism a part of your family life now means that as teenagers, they will be more likely to step outside themselves, take a longer view, and possess a sense of purpose about how they fit into the world.

impulsive activity, isn’t fully developed by the teen years. But, Dr. Carlson says, “you still want an adolescent to be able to pause between stimulus and response.” A 16-year-old may be excited to jump into a friend’s car after a party, but it’s much better if they can take a minute to recall whether the driver has been drinking or is known for driving too fast. Children can learn in toddlerhood to take a breath before they act. When your 3-year-old rushes to pat a dog in the park, remind them that they should ask the owner first if the dog is friendly. Kids soon realize that taking the time to get information and consider consequences gives them more control over a situation, and ultimately more autonomy. 6

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Toddlers build new neural connections at an amazing rate, but Dr. Carlson points out that the time it takes for a signal to pass across one of those neurons is dramatically slower in children than in adults. If you want to give your kids a sense of autonomy, something that will be crucial in the teen years, you need to let them go at their own pace, even if it seems wildly slow to you. “Realize that it takes toddlers a long time to process information, and try not to rush them all the time,” she advises. Yes, you’re in a hurry to get in the car, but it’s really important to your toddler that they put on their shoes. Let them, even if it takes triple the amount of time. The prefrontal cortex, which controls

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Patterns of communication within a family get set early. If you want your children to talk to you when they’re teens, make sure you spend a lot of time talking to them as toddlers. Sue Pepin has five daughters; the youngest two are teenagers. Living in San Francisco when the three oldest were in day care or starting elementary school, she often had a 20- or 30-minute commute in traffic, and she always spent it talking and sharing stories. At bedtime, she and her husband would spin a tale about an imaginary little girl named Spizzo who was brave and confident. The story was often a subtle recap of their children’s day, recounting what Spizzo did when she was disappointed or faced a bully or even worried about climate change. Pepin always noticed when a child repeated back one of the subliminal messages—such as that it’s okay to fail as long as you keep trying. As the girls became teens, she realized that “your children are listening and taking in what you say, even when you think they’re not.” Whether you have a toddler or a teenager, you’re unlikely to get a straight answer to the question “How was your day?” But once you find new ways to weave stories and share ideas, you’ll be able to connect with your child at any age.

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BEST CHILDREN’S BOOKS 2020 2

3 1

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It turns into a globe!

This Year’s Storytime Standouts The 30 winners of our 12th annual book awards deliver laughter and learning and thrills and chills, but most important, they are guaranteed to help your child fall in love with reading. Grab them before they’re back-ordered! by K A R E N C I C E R O / photographs by J E F F R E Y W E S T B R O O K

Written and illustrated by Erica Sirotich

Hooray for Little Fingers!

Written and illustrated by Tristan Mory

An interactive book with extra-sturdy pages, this whimsical French import stealthily teaches kids how to count to ten. Our toddler reviewers poked their fingers through strategically placed die-cut holes—two fingers become a crab’s claws, three turn into a ladybug’s legs. “My 2-year-old couldn’t wait to see the next creature she could make come to life,” says one mom. Ages 1 to 4

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Mail Duck

2020

On one level, this lift-the-flap book is a sweet story about a duck delivering packages that, unbeknownst to him, are for his surprise party. On another, it’s an ingenious pre-K geometry lesson. “My 3-year-old made the connection from shapes being shapes to objects having shapes,” says one mom. “Now she gets that a pine tree is a triangle shape!” Ages 1 to 4 3

What Is Baby Going to Do?

Written by Laura Knowles, illustrated by Juliana Perdomo

With a joyful color scheme and smart fold-out pages, the book doubles as a peekaboo game. You ask your child the title question as they

spot babies wearing something (think rain boots) that hints at the answer. Ages 0 to 2 4

Hello, Elephant!

Written and illustrated by Sam Boughton

This book is awesome at relating cool facts about ten African animals to a little kid’s knowledge base. Fun one: “A giraffe can grow as tall as three adult humans.” Ages 3 to 6 5

Our World

Written by Sue Lowell Gallion, illustrated by Lisk Feng

Read it two ways. The left side of each page tells an eco-minded story about the earth. The right engages older kids with info about clouds, oceans, and geographic features. Ages 2 to 6

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B OA R D BOOKS

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Job “openings!” The panels slide to reveal 36 careers.

How Big Is Zagnodd?

Written and illustrated by Sandra Boynton

The “so big” gag never gets old, and the legendary Boynton brilliantly builds on it (“So fuzzy!” “So sleepy!”) with a cast of dancing aliens and one lost human. The silly names and twist ending had testers nodding in agreement with the book’s final question: Start over? Ages 0 to 2

Who Does What?

Written by Stephanie Babin, illustrated by Ilaria Falorsi

The volume of info this book packs into its fun and durable pages impressed parents. Labeled panels that slide easily—a sturdier alternative to flaps—help kids relate the object to the person who makes or uses it. Then simple job descriptions (“I help animals who are sick or hurt”) add concepts without overwhelming kids. “Every time we pick up the book, we notice another clever detail in the illustrations,” says a mom. Ages 2 to 5

You’re My Little Baby

Written and illustrated by Eric Carle

The Very Hungry Caterpillar creator has still got it. His signature collage-style illustration, tender text, and touchand-feel elements (like a fuzzy cloud and shiny waves) have the makings of another classic. The heart-shaped mirror on the last page sealed the deal for our kid reviewers. Ages 0 to 2

Hand in Hand

Written by Alyssa Satin Capucilli, illustrated by Sheryl Murray

While there’s no shortage of bedtime books, this one stands out for its truly poetic text, a subdued palette, and characters of color. The sweet plot follows a mom and daughter on their day out together (“me/you/we, two/ hand in hand/through and through”) and wraps up with the tired toddler being carried home under the stars. Bring on the snuggles. Ages 1 to 3 10

Play With Your Plate!

Written and illustrated by Judith Rossell

Fun is served: Part pretend kitchen, part concept book, this winner lets kids decide which four foods they want to put on their plate. At the same time, it teaches about colors, shapes, and eating healthy. “Once you show kids how it works, they can enjoy it on their own,” says one mom. Ages 2 to 6

A calming choice for bedtime

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OUR PROCESS Librarians, teachers, literacy experts, and Parents editors nominated 250+ titles published this year. A diverse group of nearly 100 kids (and their parents) helped us land on these winners.

ABCs, plus a message to decode

4 5

PICTURE BOOKS

The Alphabet’s Alphabet

Written by Chris Harris, illustrated by Dan Santat

If Sherlock Holmes and Weird Al had teamed up on an alphabet book, it might resemble this wacky and wonderful creation. Rhyming text proposes each letter’s doppelgänger in A-to-Z order. (“U is a J that’s all slouched in a chair, V is an M that cut its long hair.”) It’s catchy stuff that kids will recall when they sit down to write. Adds librarian and book blogger Betsy Bird: “Thought out to the finest particle, the story even doubles as a code.” Ages 3 to 8

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Friday Night Wrestlefest

Old Rock (Is Not Boring)

Written by J. F. Fox, illustrated by Micah Player

Written and illustrated by Deb Pilutti

Put on a booming announcer voice and start the suspenseful match, featuring Dangerous Daddoo, Mama-Rama, Peanut Brother, Jellyfish, and Big Bald Baby. The shifting loyalties, larger-than-life art, and potty high jinks (“a clear the room diaper of doom!”) had our reviewers totally invested. Ages 3 to 8

In this nonfiction-fiction hybrid (which is now a thing), a rock tells its life story to a pine tree. Kid reviewers thought it was cool to see the rock burst out of a volcano, chat it up with dinosaurs, and be buried in a glacier. “Kids will realize that any rock they find may have an amazing history,” Bird says. Ages 4 to 8

Catch That Chicken!

Written by Atinuke, illustrated by Angela Brooksbank

The story with a brains-beats-brawn moral took our kid reviewers on an emotional rollercoaster ride. Expressive, action-packed illustrations fueled their connection with a fast runner whose injury sidelines her from chasing chickens in her Nigerian village. Ages 3 to 6

The Box Turtle

Written and illustrated by Vanessa Roeder

There are a lot of kids’ books about kindness and finding yourself, but this one stands out. The story of a turtle born without a shell is funny while still promoting self-confidence. The drawings of the turtle trying out substitute shells (a toolbox! a jukebox! a bread box!) cracked up our kid reviewers. Ages 2 to 6

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Picture book meets graphic novel.

R AISING THE FUTURE BOOK CLUB

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Parenting realities and kid reveries 6

Lift

Written by Minh Lê, illustrated by Dan Santat

Not since Charlie stepped foot in the Great Glass Elevator has a book taken kids on such an imaginative ride. “It showcases an older sibling learning about herself and accepting that her little brother is growing up, and how that will change things,” says Cassie Welsh, children’s librarian at the Nashville Public Library. Ages 4 to 8 7

Kamala and Maya’s Big Idea

Written by Meena Harris, illustrated by Ana Ramírez González

Yes, it’s about that Kamala and written by her niece, although she wasn’t yet a V.P. nominee when our kid reviewers read the book. What struck them: the sisters’ perseverance in constructing a playground in their apartment building’s empty courtyard. “ ‘No

one could do everything, but everyone could do something’ is now one of my 7-year-old’s favorite quotes,” says one mom. Ages 4 to 8

Exquisite: The Poetry and Life of Gwendolyn Brooks 8

Written by Suzanne Slade, illustrated by Cozbi A. Cabrera

Much needed in the kid-lit cannon, this bio of the first Black person to win the Pulitzer Prize delivers a powerful message of resilience in poetic verse and acrylic portraits . The tidbit that grabbed kids most: Brooks’s first poem was published when she was 11. Ages 6 to 10 9

The Paper Kingdom

Written by Helena Ku Rhee, illustrated by Pascal Campion

On the surface, it’s an ode to night-shift workers who get the job done even when

their child care breaks down. But the book’s storytime appeal stems from “how it shows kids that the dullest moments can turn into an unexpected adventure,” says one mom. Red dragons and large golden crowns, scattered among mops and buckets, fed our kid reviewers’ big imaginations. Ages 4 to 8 10

Vinny Gets a Job

Written and illustrated by Terry Brodner

The funniest book of the year (according to our school-age reviewers) stars a plaid-suit-wearing canine who fails at every job he tries. The clever wordplay (Vinny takes things too literally!) made the kids want to read the story over and over. One even said the book reminded her of her mom’s lovingly worn Amelia Bedelia series. We see the similarities too. Ages 4 to 8

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Shirley & Jamila Save Their Summer 5

Written and illustrated by Gillian Goerz

This fast-paced graphic novel is one of the few in the mystery genre and reminded our tween reviewers of the Nate the Great series. “After I finished it, I read it again to see what clues I had overlooked,” says a 10-year-old reviewer. Ages 8 to 12

Class Act

Written and illustrated by Jerry Craft

A companion to the Newbery Medal winner New Kid, this graphic novel shines for its realistic portrayal of what it’s like to be an eighth-grader of color at a mostly white school. In both weighty and lighthearted moments, the dialogue feels authentic. Head to Parents IGTV to watch Craft read two chapters. Ages 8 to 12

History Smashers: The Mayflower

Written by Kate Messner, illustrated by Dylan Meconis

The debut title in this nonfiction series debunks myths about the pilgrims’ arrival. The intro to fact-checking feels especially relevant in these times. “With its chummy tone, the series eradicates stereotypes and encourages kids to think more critically,” says book blogger Julie Danielson. Ages 8 to 12 8

Prairie Lotus

Written by Linda Sue Park

Laura Ingalls Wilder fans have a new hero: Hanna. The biracial teen in the Dakota Territory is determined to get an education and achieve her dreams of becoming a dressmaker. “At times, I felt sad and angry about the prejudice she faces,” says one reviewer. “But how she handles it inspired me.” Ages 8 to 12 9

From the Desk of Zoe Washington

Written by Janae Marks

CHAPTER BOOKS

character, Ryan, in this new beginning chapterbook series that’s hailed by our kid-lit judges as a “modern-day Ramona.” Ages 6 to 10 3

What About Worms!?

Written and illustrated by Ryan T. Higgins 1

The One and Only Bob

Written by Katherine Applegate, illustrated by Patricia Castelao

This sequel to The One and Only Ivan exudes equal charm and suspense. Although the animals all have much better homes, a storm puts their reunion in jeopardy. “I would rate this a million,” says one reviewer. Ages 7+ 2

Ways to Make Sunshine

Written by Renée Watson, illustrated by Nina Mata

“If she were real, I’d be her BFF.” That’s how one 8-year-old reviewer feels about the main

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A rare find: an early reader with an important message—namely, that we all see situations differently. Sensory words and sounds add fun. Ages 4 to 6

See the Cat: Three Stories About a Dog

Our reviewers saw themselves in the title character—a 12-year-old trying to prove the innocence of her jailed father. “Zoe is so much like me with her love for baking and wanting to know the real answer to things,” says one 12-year-old, who was moved to send the author a thank-you note. Ages 8 to 12 10

City Spies

Written by James Ponti

The premise—five kids from all over the world come together to be real-life spies—gave our reviewers Hogwarts vibes. Plus, Ponti’s keep-you-guessing mystery style made this thick book a fast read for them. (They can’t wait until March for the sequel.) Ages 8 to 12

Written by David LaRochelle, illustrated by Mike Wohnoutka

Using common sight words, LaRochelle constructs a highly amusing story about a dog that’s mistaken for a cat. It gets even wackier when a unicorn shows up. Ages 4 to 6

The Best Books for Teens Simply hover your phone’s camera over the smart code for ten 2020 faves from our teen reviewers.

K I D S Ñ Fa m i ly H e a lt h

Colds and Flu in Anxious Times The season of sneezes, sniffles, and coughs is complicated by the pandemic —but we can help you go forth armed with knowledge. by J E N N Y J . C H E N / photographs by P R I S C I L L A G R A G G

THIS SEASON

normally ushers in a great flurry of activity—holidays, travel—and, unfortunately, those familiar runny noses and coughs that hop from kid to kid. But this year’s flu season is like no other in recent memory, coinciding with an unprecedented global pandemic. If your anxiety is spiking, let us help by answering a few of your burning questions.

What’s worse for my kid, the flu or COVID-19? COVID-19’s effect on kids remains somewhat mysterious. Initial reports stated that the very young were mere carriers, not sufferers, of the disease, before numerous cases disproved this belief. In fact, children appear to get the virus in ways adults don’t. Some pediatric cases presented with symptoms similar to Kawasaki disease, an inflammation of the blood vessels, or toxic shock syndrome, a bacterial

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infection resulting in an umbrella diagnosis of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). And doctors have been surprised to note that kids who were asymptomatic or who experienced only mild COVID-19 symptoms have reported bruise-like blisters and bumps on their toes, a condition dubbed “COVID toes.” In other words, we don’t know a lot yet about how COVID affects kids, but we know enough to be worried. Each year, the influenza virus typically infects between 9 million and 45 million people. Kids who catch it usually experience the sudden onset of a fever, aches, fatigue, a cough, a sore throat, and congestion. However, on rare occasions, flu can cause more serious health concerns. Ultimately, the flu virus is a greater danger for kids than COVID-19, says Nava Yeganeh, M.D., visiting assistant professor in the Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Disease at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. That said, it is also mostly a known foe, which means that even if we can’t prevent it entirely, we do know how to treat it, says Charlene Wong, M.D., associate professor of pediatrics at Duke University School of Medicine, in Durham, North Carolina.

Which one is worse for me if I catch it from my child? In general, COVID-19 appears to be more serious for adults than the flu. In addition, the flu is often preventable with a vaccine. And bear in mind that one of COVID-19’s scariest

respiratory viruses (which is what the coronavirus is) are relatively rare. It’s even been hypothesized that having certain types of flu can reduce the chances of contracting a rhinovirus (the most common type of cold). Then again, getting the flu can make you susceptible to other infections, says Byron Whyte, M.D., a pediatrician in Washington, D.C. He recalls seeing a patient last year with asthma who got the flu, then caught pneumonia. “That’s pretty typical,” he says. Unfortunately, the limited studies conducted so far aren’t conclusive. The bottom line is that we just don’t know yet.

The flu shot is one of your best defenses against getting sick this season.

What should I do if my child develops cold or flu symptoms? characteristics is its unpredictability: Some people without underlying conditions experience severe symptoms, while others have only mild or even entirely asymptomatic cases. There is no way to predict how it might affect you.

What kind of flu season are epidemiologists predicting? Fortunately, this year’s flu season may be milder than usual, thanks to widespread social-distancing practices. Mask wearing, washing your hands, and avoiding proximity to people do just as great a job of halting the spread of the flu as they do of reducing exposure to COVID-19. In an article published in Science, researchers in South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand reported a decrease in flu

cases during their cold and flu season, which arrives over our summer. Australia logged 33 cases between April and mid-August; South Africa logged just six. But, says Dr. Yeganeh, “we’re not Australia or New Zealand.” There, people largely complied with social distancing; in this country, much less so. It’s hard to predict what will happen in the United States as schools reopen and cases continue to surge in some areas.

Is it possible to catch COVID-19 and the flu at the same time? Technically, the answer is yes, since the viruses use different receptors on our cells to access, and infect, our bodies. But preliminary reports suggest that it’s pretty unlikely. For reasons still largely unknown, coinfections of flu and other

The experts all agree: Call your doctor, who will make the determination about whether your child should be tested for COVID-19 based on symptoms, the number of cases in your area, and your family’s risk. “The people you pay to take care of your kids should decide the next step,” says Dr. Whyte. “You don’t need to go through all these mental acrobatics—let the experts make the call.” Furthermore, if your child is struggling to breathe, call a medical professional or 911 immediately, or go to the emergency room. It’s a serious symptom, regardless of its cause.

Could the stress of the pandemic be a factor in my child’s health? It’s definitely possible. With school having started amid the free-floating anxiety of a global pandemic, kids are

K I D S Ñ Fa m i ly H e a lt h

bound to experience some worry and woe right now, and long periods of stress and anxiety have been shown to weaken immune response. Meditation, walks, journaling, and talking with friends and family are all good ways to lower the internal boil. Whenever it’s possible to do so, give your kids a break. This is a tough time for folks of all ages.

Could vitamins or supplements help with prevention? Possibly. A recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association’s online network analyzed 489 patients and found that those who might be deficient in vitamin D were 1.77 times as likely to test positive for COVID-19.

Not all that surprising, since vitamin D treatment has been found to decrease other viral respiratory infections. More research on the connection between vitamin D and the virus is needed, so if you’re considering a supplement for your child, talk to a pediatrician first. We also know that a balanced diet plays a huge role in immune response. Many nutrients in fruits and vegetables make up the essential building blocks of your body’s immune system, so make sure your child is getting a decent dose of produce. In addition, a large proportion of our body’s immune system lives in our digestive organs. Studies show that a diverse and balanced microbiome in the gut helps regulate immunity.

Encourage your kids to eat foods that are high in fiber (raspberries and black beans are two that kids often eat willingly) and probiotics (like yogurt).

Is there anything else I can do to prepare? Yes—and you’re likely already doing at least some of it. First and foremost, make sure you and your kids get the flu vaccine. Not only does it protect from flu, but getting vaccinated can also help parents and health-care professionals rule out the flu if you or your child do get sick, Dr. Whyte says. Second, try to stick to regular bedtimes. Schedules are all over the place these days, since everyone is spending so much time at home, Dr. Wong says. But prolonged

lack of sleep can depress the immune system and make it harder for the body to fight off infections. Turn off electronics at least an hour before bed to help your kids fall asleep more easily. Third, do what you can to keep your kids moving. Habitual exercise improves the immune system’s ability to regulate itself and increase production of cells critical to immune function and metabolic health. And finally, continue doing what you’ve likely already been doing to stave off the coronavirus: Wear a mask, practice social distancing, and keep up with the all-important task of regular handwashing. Sing it with us now: Kids should wash their hands for at least 20 seconds and avoid touching their face.

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Talking About Feelings Can Be Hard Naming and validating your child’s upset feelings is a good parenting tactic, but it doesn’t work on every kid. If your little one often shuts down or protests when you ask what’s wrong, try these alternative strategies, which work best for kids ages 5 and up, from clinical psychologist (and mom of three) Becky Kennedy, Ph.D.

too I ’m m ad to ex pl ai n!

Develop a metaphor for big emotions. This will provide a way to communicate with your child without making the conversation directly about them. In a quiet moment, you might say: “Do you ever think feelings work like an elevator? Imagine there’s one in the lobby. It moves up to floor two, then four, and then it has to go to the roof quickly before it can slowly go back down. Some people’s bodies work like that.” Don’t be discouraged if your child says nothing in return. Move on and trust they’ve registered your effort to understand and relate.

Turn it into a game. To help your child

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with perfectionist tendencies or an independent spirit, saying, “You’re so upset” and “I see you’re mad; that’s okay” during a tantrum may actually intensify negative feelings and spur shame. Instead, be present and stay calm to validate and connect with your child. You can start by taking deep breaths and repeating a silent mantra, like “Nothing is wrong with me. Nothing is wrong with my child. I can cope with this.” As you talk to your child during a meltdown, stick with feelings-free phrases. Try: “I’m right here with you.” When you focus on your own regulation and being present for your child, they’ll learn that their feelings aren’t so scary.

six years post-childbirth if the father took time off from work to care for their newborn, found a study published in the Journal of Social Policy.

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Paternity leave can be good for relationships too. Couples were 25 percent less likely to separate in the

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Children who read books daily score higher on literacy tests. After examining 43,000 students at ages 10 and 2

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11 and then again at ages 13 and 14, a study in the Oxford Review of Education showed that reading books improved exam performance more than reading newspapers, magazines, and comics. —Kyleigh Leddy

CATHERINE DELAHAYE/GETTY IMAGES.

Stay close and quiet. For kids

tune into their own emotions, try the Rating Game. After your kid has calmed down, say, “I’m going to ask about something that happened. If it feels right, give me a thumbs-up. If it’s mixed, give me a thumb to the side. If it’s all wrong, thumbs-down.” Start with an interpretation that will get a laugh and a thumbs-down. (“When we were playing soccer, you got upset because aliens came and stole our ball!”) After a laugh, say: “Or because you wanted to score a goal and got frustrated when you didn’t.” When your child gives you a thumbs-up, don’t explore further. You can validate with, “I get that.” Then ask, “Do you want me to keep going? Give me a thumb movement to let me know.” If your child has large outbursts and meltdowns that overwhelm you, or if you feel you and your child are locked into an unproductive dynamic around intense emotional moments, Dr. Kennedy suggests seeking professional advice.

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The Peanut Puzzle For two decades, peanut allergies have been rising in America—to the bewilderment of the medical community. Now doctors are getting closer to understanding why. We asked Michael Pistiner, M.D., a leading researcher in the field and dad of a child with food allergies, to share the latest thinking about this life-threatening condition affecting one in 13 kids.

1. Kids who don’t eat peanuts in early childhood have a greater risk of becoming allergic. Although you’ve probably heard that you no longer need to wait until the toddler years to give your peanut their first taste of PB, you may wonder if there’s any harm in being cautious. Turns out, delaying the introduction of peanuts (and other top allergens) may actually raise their risk of developing an allergy, says

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Dr. Pistiner, director of food-allergy advocacy, education, and prevention at MassGeneral Hospital for Children’s Food Allergy Center, in Boston. How researchers figured this out is pretty interesting: Some 640 babies who were considered at higher risk for developing peanut allergies because they had severe eczema, egg allergy, or both were enrolled in a long-term study called Learning Early About Peanut Allergy

(LEAP). Half the group avoided peanuts until their fifth birthday. The other half received 2 grams of peanut protein three times a week. Seventeen percent of the peanut avoiders were diagnosed with the allergy compared with just 3 percent of the peanut-eating group. There is solid evidence suggesting that giving babies and toddlers peanuts can help achieve “tolerance”—meaning they can eat the food without having an allergic

SARAH ANNE WARD.

by E M I LY E LV E R U

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AARON DYER.

reaction. But why would avoiding peanuts raise the risk of developing an allergy? Unlike the gut’s immune system, which may play a role in establishing tolerance, the skin’s immune system may actually increase sensitivity to peanuts. If your baby’s skin is routinely exposed to peanuts in their surroundings—you or the rest of the family regularly touch them after eating peanuts without first washing your hands—fine particles may get on their skin. Another route is through peanut dust on carpets or a mattress. Regularly exposing kids to peanuts through the skin but not diet is the double whammy that doctors call the “dualexposure hypothesis.” It may have contributed to the surge in peanut allergies when, from 2000 to 2008, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommended delaying the introduction of peanuts until age 3. In fact, Dr. Pistiner, who is also a member of the AAP Executive Committee for the Section of Allergy and Immunology, notes that his now-teenage son had a severe allergic reaction to walnuts when he ate them for the first time in a chocolate bar at age 4. Prior to that incident, Dr. Pistiner and his wife had often eaten walnuts at home.

2. Severe eczema complicates matters. Normal skin has a healthy barrier function that helps keep peanut particles from penetrating. On the other hand, kids with the dry, red, itchy skin associated with severe eczema have a poorly functioning barrier because of underlying inflammation. The difference in barrier function may explain why kids with severe eczema are more at risk for food allergies.

5. It’s okay to introduce other common food allergens early as well. While guidelines haven’t been released, studies support that early introduction to eggs may protect against egg allergy. In fact, there’s no reason to delay giving allergenic foods, according to the AAP. 6. Kids don’t usually outgrow a peanut allergy. About 80 percent of kids with a peanut allergy and 90 percent of kids who are allergic to tree nuts have their condition for a lifetime. But those stats flip for a milk or egg allergy—about 80 percent of kids can tolerate these foods as they grow up.

3. Most kids should start eating peanuts by the time they’re 6 months old. The latest guidance from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) and endorsed by the AAP suggests that you can introduce peanuts as early as 6 months, unless your baby has severe eczema or an egg allergy. In that case, it’s recommended that 4 to 6 months be the goal, but your baby should be screened for peanut allergy before you give them a taste. It’s good to know that having a peanut allergy in the family isn’t considered high risk. 4. You don’t need to offer a lot of peanuts for kids to get protection. NIAID recommends that kids eat 2 teaspoons of peanut

butter (or 2 grams of peanut protein) three times a week until age 5. Kids in the LEAP study ate either smoothedout peanut butter or Bamba, a peanut-containing snack consumed regularly by children in Israel. You can keep it simple and stress-free by stirring peanut butter into oatmeal, pureed fruit or veggies, breast milk, or formula. Just don’t give whole peanuts, chunks, or chunky peanut butter since all are a choking risk for kids under 4 years old. While some packaged snack products are marketed as a way to help introduce peanuts to kids, they don’t always contain enough to meet the minimum recommendation. However, they can be convenient. Make sure to check the Nutrition Facts label to see that the snack contains enough peanut protein.

7. Your pregnancy diet isn’t a factor. There’s no strong scientific evidence to suggest that eating a highly allergenic food while pregnant could prevent food allergy in your child or put them at a higher risk of developing one. 8. New treatments can help kids manage peanut allergy. If your child has already been diagnosed, stay plugged in to their health-care team. While no treatments are available for infants, earlier this year the FDA approved an oral immunotherapy treatment for kids ages 4 to 17. Another treatment currently being studied, a small patch applied to a child’s skin daily that contains a dose of peanut protein, is still awaiting FDA approval. Talk to your baby’s doctor to figure out your plan for introducing solid food. It’s best to start the conversation early, says Dr. Pistiner.

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BEST TOYS 2020

4 5 T OYS T H AT W O W

It’s time to get circling for Santa! Our team of testers played (and played and played) with hundreds of new releases to help us craft this list of holiday winners. Wrap them up for Christmas or Hanukkah, and presto: Your kids can stay busy at home all winter long. by A D R I E N N E FA R R and J E S S I C A H A R T S H O R N / photographs by J E F F R E Y W E S T B R O O K

TIMELES S FUN Let’s start with some classics: Dolls, trains, puzzles, and vehicles have a long track record of firing up kids’ imaginations and engaging them for long stretches (hallelujah!).

TR AI N S ET The famous blue engine and his pal load cargo, then zip through a tunnel and over a bridge in the Fisher-Price Thomas & Friends Talking Thomas & Percy Train Set. “The kids lost their minds when the engines talked to each other,” a mom reports. Ages 3+, $50; amazon.com It’s more than 2 feet tall!

CAR TOWE R Racing thrills for the playroom set: “I’m ready to hit the track!” the plastic car chirps, prompting kids to send it zooming more than 3 feet down the VTech Go! Go! Smart Wheels Ultimate Corkscrew Tower. Ages 1 to 5, $30; walmart.com

PROP STYLING BY MIAKO KATOH.

C O MPANIO N DO LL Healthy Roots Dolls Zoe is an 18-inch rendition of the best-friend doll. “I can wash and comb her hair just like my mom does mine,” one girl enthuses. It’s true—you can even use product on her hair, then rewash. Ages 6+, $80; healthyrootsdolls.com PUZ ZLE It’s the year of the puzzle! A child can tackle the 200-piece Ravensburger King of the Dinosaurs alone or with the fam. Pieces are big but not babyish—and extra cool to the dino-obsessed. Ages 8+, $15; amazon.com

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RE S C U E VE H I C LE Two firefighters and a pooch populate the Lakeshore Learning Real-Action Fire Engine. But the extendable ladder, sides that open to reveal a command center, and retractable hose make it endlessly fascinating. Plus, “it’s battery-free, so kids invent the sounds,” one mom says. Ages 3 to 8, $50; lakeshorelearning.com

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LOVABLE CHAR ACTERS Given how the rules around screen time loosened waaay up in 2020, it’s no surprise that kids seem to have bonded with several pop-culture creatures. Celebrate their fandom with these toys—and maybe just entice them to turn their devices off for a few. RC VE H I C LE “Hands down the coolest toy my boys have seen,” says one mom, “and that includes my husband.” Spin Master Monster Jam Megalodon Storm drives on gravel, over snow, and yes, through water—yet won’t destroy your floors. Ages 4+, $50; walmart.com

Love me you will.

BABY D O LL Available in multiple skin tones, Madame Alexander Sweet Smiles doll “is without exaggerated features,” observes a grateful dad. Her eyes close when you lay her down, but your child decides if she’s hungry or needs a hug. Ages 1+, $35; amazon.com

MARB LE RU N Players work their STEM skills to free build or follow picture blueprints for the Haba Pi Gauss Cannon Marble Run Set, using components to power four marbles around their track. “You have to put a little math into it,” one young tester notes. Ages 8+, $80; habausa.com

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B U I LD - IT S ET Kids enraptured by construction sites can play building supervisor with the Playmobil RC Crane With Building Section, controlling the crane via remote control to hoist some of the 80 pieces. Includes two characters. Ages 5+, $100; playmobil.us

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TH E MAN DALO RIAN While there are snazzy animatronic versions of the so-called Baby Yoda, it’s easier to carry around and love this squishy Mattel Star Wars The Child 8-in. Basic Plush. One parent swears everyone in the family loves it, “but especially my youngest, who rates this an 11 out of 10.” Ages 3+, $13; amazon.com

How We Made Our List (and Checked It Twice)

We consulted with Laurie Schacht, chief toy officer of The Toy Insider, and Tamar Nazerian Chorbadjian, D.O., M.P.H., a developmental-behavioral pediatrician in Los Angeles, about what makes a toy great. Sixty families across the country spent July testing toys from a pool of more than 500, and rated each on a scale of 1 to 10. Winners had to be screen-free, as well as sustain interest, please parents, and cost no more than $100.

Fan-Fave Playsets B LU E ’ S C LU E S Just Play Blue’s Clues & You! Dance-Along Blue Plush comes attached to a guitar, and when you press a button on the instrument, a snippet of the theme song plays while Blue does a jig. “My daughter loves every flap of the ears,” says a mom, and Blue talks too. Ages 3+, $50; walmart.com

BABY S HARK Just roll with the earworm hit beloved by tots: The WowWee Pinkfong Baby Shark Dancing DJ plays seven songs and detects motion for Freeze Dance. A plus: “My 2-year-old is able to navigate the games himself,” one parent tells us. Ages 2+, $40; walmart.com

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MARVE L AVE N G E RS Hasbro Marvel Bend and Flex Action Figures aren’t stuck in stiff positions. Kids can move the 6-inch heroes into poses and create little scenes. “They stand on their own,” says a mom. The 18 figures (and counting!) include Black Panther, Iron Man, and Captain America. Ages 6+, $10 each; target.com

FROZE N 2 This petite Arendelle set is fun and simple to build, and it closes up like a book, ”so great for not losing pieces!” raves one mom. LEGO Disney Anna and Elsa’s Storybook Adventures comes with all the stars—Elsa, Anna, Kristoff, and Olaf—plus a zippy sled for adventure outside the gates. Ages 5+, $20; lego.com

I can see Folds up to

you dance.

store. D RE AMWO RKS TRO LL S WO RLD TOU R Squeeze the hand of pop singer Just Play Color Poppin’ Poppy to change her hair to rainbow colors, start games, or hear her sing, “Trolls Just Wanna Have Fun.” Ages 3+, $25; target.com

S E SAM E STRE ET Fluffy GUND Bedtime Elmo With Light-Up Flashlight helps soothe nighttime fears with a small light that toddlers can click on and off. But “even the flashlight and Elmo’s eyeballs are fabric,” explains one mom, so it’s still great to snuggle. Ages 1 to 4, $35; amazon.com

B LU E Y This relatively new show doesn’t have a ton of merch yet, so devotees will thrill over Bluey’s Family Home Playset. The four-room house comes with Bluey, of course, and a bunch of fun furnishings. “The fridge opens, and so does the toilet,” one parent mentions. Ages 3+, $40; target.com

PJ MAS KS The size of your average 3-year-old when it’s upright, the Just Play PJ Masks Transforming 2 in 1 Mobile HQ turns into a vehicle “with help from a parent,” says a tester. One Catboy and a car are part of the deal and work with other PJ Masks sets. Ages 3+, $80; amazon.com

PAW PATRO L Spin Master PAW Patrol Ultimate Police Cruiser is a virtual nesting doll of contraptions: A helicopter rises out of the top, and two motorcycles launch from the sides—and don’t overlook the boat and the projectile launcher. A Chase figurine presides over it all and is compatible with other PAW Patrol sets. Ages 3+, $80; amazon.com

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Big Reveals

L .O. L . S ET “True happiness comes from within,” vows one mom, “but also apparently from this.” MGA L.O.L. Surprise! Clubhouse Playset has more than 40 items to unwrap, including a tiny foosball table, beanbag chairs, and two exclusive dolls. Ages 7+, $50; lolsurprise.com

J E WE LRY KIT The Just My Style All-in-One Jewelry Carry Case has the goods for 100+ bracelets, including more than 2,000 beads, and everything stores inside. “My daughter has been making bracelets nonstop,” a tester mom says. Ages 6+, $30; kohls.com

MAG NA-TI LE S Building blocks meet favorite images in The Very Hungry Caterpillar Magna-Tiles by CreateOn. “Try reading the book while they play with the tiles,” one parent suggests. “My kid loved that.” For a new Eric Carle book, see “This Year’s Storytime Standouts,” page 26. Ages 3+, $35; target.com

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ART AND SCIENCE KITS When you play along with your kid, you reinforce what they learn. “I recommend toys that challenge problem-solving skills, hone fine-motor skills, and foster creativity,” says developmental-behavioral pediatrician Tamar Nazerian Chorbadjian, D.O., M.P.H. FU N FI N D Sprinkle water on Skyrocket Blume Petal Pets and the flower “blooms” to reveal a charm bracelet. A character lives inside the flowerpot, which can be decorated with the included stickers. Ages 3+, $8; target.com

PLU S H S U RPRI S E Kids unveil a singing, talking pet—like a kitty or a llama—from ZURU Rainbocorns SweetShake Surprise. The cup includes 15 layers of trinkets plus a slimy compound to make a faux drink (as one does). Ages 3+, $35; zuru.com

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Color magic

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H I D D E N - I N - S LI M E PRIZE Cut the shark’s belly for slime and booty, then rescue a figure from its jaws. The chomping sea creature remains fun long after kids open Treasure X Sunken Gold Shark’s Treasure. Ages 5+, $20; walmart.com

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C R AF T KIT Crayola Paper Flower Science Kit results in a dozen pretty little blooms and teaches how plants “drink” water. Kids can layer in more dye for deeper colors. “They’re so proud of the results,” a dad says. Ages 7+, $20; amazon.com

S C I E N C E KIT Kids create fast-growing crystals from nontoxic salts using the Thames & Kosmos Ooze Labs: Colorful Crystal Lab. A 24-page book walks them through 11 experiments that make use of tools like a centrifuge. Yeah, science! Ages 6+, $30; amazon.com

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C O O L GAD G ET Legit real-powered binoculars in the shape of a plane that kids decorate with stickers and can use as a fan: There’s a lot going on with iPlay, iLearn Flynoculars, and it’s all pretty awesome. Ages 3+, $17; amazon.com

Family Games

IMAGINATIVE PLAY Dr. Chorbadjian shares some pointers for shopping the toy aisle: D I N O ADVE NTU RE The deluxe Schleich Large Dino Research Station comes with three researchers and tools —walkie-talkies, a net, a tranquilizer-dart gun, and more—so they can catch the creatures. The two big dinos are fun to play with on their own too. Ages 4+, $100; schleich-s.com

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Little kids love to pretend, so their toys should allow them to create story lines. If a toy talks or moves, it shouldn’t do all the work for your child. It’s not a toy if they only sit and veg out. For school-age kids, try nonelectronic board games to get them to be social.

Run this farm! BABY TOY The Skip Hop Bandana Buddies Activity Toy LLama is the newest in the brand’s line of first playthings. “It travels everywhere with us,” reports one mom of a 4-month-old, so yes, it has the potential to be that toy. Features a rattle and a removable teether. Birth+, $15; skiphop.com

S U S PE N S E GAM E The hot-potato concept behind YULU Popcorn Poppin’ never gets old. Set the pieces in the popcorn bag, then pass it around like a ticking bomb. When it pops, it’s a literal scream. Two or more players, ages 4+, $15; target.com

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B E ST FIX- IT TOY Vehicles that can be built and rebuilt inspire endless creativity. “Even with no direction, my 3-year-old figured out that he could unscrew and swap parts around,” one parent says. The Tomy John Deere Build-a-Buddy Value Bundle also includes a barn and two animals. Ages 3+, $40; amazon.com

PRETE N D PET When Little Live Pets Lil’ Dippers hit water, they spring to life like a real fish (yet less risk here of a tragic demise). Each finned friend comes with a bottle to simulate feedings and shuts off after about five minutes to save battery life. Try one in the tub to entice your kid to hop in. Ages 5+, $20; target.com

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FANTASY PL AYS ET A dollhouse for the ocean depths, the Lakeshore Learning Under-the-Sea Mermaid Palace got long stretches of play from testers. Says one mom, “They make up stories and put mermaids on the throne, swing, or clamshell bed.” The figures have different hair colors and skin tones, and the set comes out of the box ready to go. Ages 3 to 8, $50; lakeshorelearning.com

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S I LLY GAM E For Vango Toys #UpsideDownChallenge Game, each player dons glasses that turn their vision upside down, then completes a task—like writing their name or connecting dots—and yes, hilarity ensues. Two to six players, ages 8+, $20; target.com

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“BABY” PL AY Tots tuck the babies into this nursery or let them take turns on the rocking horse with the talking, light-up Fisher-Price Little People 1-2-3 Babies Playdate, which conveniently folds up when play is done. Ages 18 months to 5 years, $40; amazon.com

B OARD GAM E The slug-themed PlayMonster Trailz is almost an intro to chess, challenging kids to outmaneuver opponents. Happily, directions are “easy, so you can start quickly,” says one mom. Two players, ages 7+, $15; walmart.com

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IDEAS FOR GETTING ACTIVE With group activities limited, toys like balls and bikes are all the more useful for getting kids moving. “Habits to keep bodies and minds healthy are lifelong lessons that we teach our kids, and there are toys that help,” says Laurie Schacht, chief toy officer of The Toy Insider.

Two can play.

WATE R TAB LE Take a cue from nursery schools and invest in a Step2 Ball Buddies Adventure Center, which works indoors or out. Kids push the train around, put balls through the hoops, and spin the paddle to make a current. The height is toddler-perfect. Ages 18 months+, $100; step2.com

RI D E- O N This is wild: You pump up the Kid Trax Silly Skaters Unicorn Inflatable Ride-On Toy in seconds using the included air pump. “The wheels light up like old-time skates,” says a mom. Toddlers can bounce up and down as well as zip around. Ages 1 to 3, $39; kidtraxtoys.com

Fun Faux Food

J U ST TH E JAVA Latte, please! Kids run the shop with the Skip Hop Zoo Bark-ista Set featuring a pretend espresso machine and a drawer full of pastries. “The big pieces are helpful if there’s a little sibling in the house,” a mom says. Ages 3+, $40; skiphop.com FU LL KITC H E N With a sink, a stove, and a fridge on the back and this garden in front, plus some 30 play pieces (avocado toast!), Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Grow-the-Fun Garden to Kitchen is packed with activities. Buttons turn on lights, sounds, and songs. Ages 18 months to 3 years, $80; target.com

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STARTE R S P O RT S “Dad uses the VTech Count & Win Sports Center for nightly games with the kids to get out their pre-bedtime energy,” a tester mom tells us. It counts baskets and goals as you go and has more than 65 songs and phrases. Ages 1 to 3, $40; walmart.com

RO C KE R TO RI D E R Mobo Wobo 2-in-1 Rocking Kids’ Balance Bike is a great first bike (no pedals!) that easily snaps on and off a rocker base. “Our 1-year-old uses it in her room one hour and at the park the next,” explains a tester parent, who adds that it gets daily workouts. Ages 1 to 3, $100; amazon.com

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ACTIVIT Y TAB LE This works with air-hockey technology: Shapes suspended on gently rising air swirl around the Lamaze 3-in-1 Airtivity Center. Remove the legs for floor-level play. “Even the music is great!” says a parent, a bonus for any toy. Ages 6 months to 3 years, $70; target.com

2020

M I N I S ET “My kids use this LeapFrog Yum-2-3 Toaster to pretend-make sandwiches, then run around trying to ‘feed’ each other!” says one mom. It has nine pieces plus buttons to press to learn opposites, numbers, colors, and more, Ages 1 to 3, $15; walmart.com

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Insta-Graham Cuteness! Slay the gingerbread-house holiday tradition with an adorable village made from no-bake graham crackers and a Willy Wonka– esque array of sweets. Bonus: These mini cottages are easy to assemble and topple-proof for toddler fingers. by A N N A H E L M B A X T E R / photographs by J E N C A U S E Y

Build a Chimney

Deck the Roof Line up alternating flavors of sour belts (1) for a snazzy striped alpine A-frame.

Prop up a Pirouette cookie (5).

Try Frosted Mini-Wheats and Sno-Caps (2) as the snowy backdrop for Apple Jacks wreaths and string lights made from licorice laces and halved M&M’s.

Frost a Rice Krispies Treat (6) and coat it in chocolate sprinkles.

Design a Door

PEACE ON EARTH Each kid gets to candy-coat their own house, so no fights over how to decorate!

Slice a rounded edge off a Milano cookie (7) and add a gumdrop knob. Pair up two wafer halves—add handles made of M&M’s (8). For a rustic “wood” door, opt for a graham cracker (9).

Overlap waffle pretzels, then drip royal icing along the “shingles” (3).

Use scissors to cut sour belts (10) into an arched entry.

Arrange halved gumdrops (4) cut side down and top with a Pirouette cookie.

5 2

8 13 14

Choose Your Path

Smarties (12) make a good “stone” walkway. 12

For a gravel effect, spread royal icing on the base, then sprinkle with Nerds (13).

Add a Mascot Dress up a Walkers Shortbread Scottie Dog (11) in a gumdrop hat and a sour-belt scarf.

Lay down a waffle-pretzel (14) welcome mat. Sour belts plus gumdrops (15) equals a rainbow front lane.

Set Up a Tree Cover an ice-cream cone (16) in royal icing and green sprinkles, then top with a candy star.

T U R N T H E PA G E FOR INSTRUCTIONS AND MORE IDEAS!

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FOOD STYLING BY RISHON HANNERS. PROP STYLING BY CLAIRE SPOLLEN.

hummus

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Rock the Details Yes, you can break the graham crackers by hand to the proper size. But to avoid a crumbly mess, cut the squares along score marks using a small serrated knife in a sawing motion.

Collapsed houses—we’ve been there! Our secret for a sturdy structure? Melted white chocolate.

Melted white chocolate offers the easiest way to build walls and roofs that actually stick together. Once the chocolate is melted, let it cool 5 to 10 minutes before using so it’s nice and tacky. Between steps, refrigerate houses to firm them up stat. Coat bottom edges of houses with melted white chocolate and stick them to a cake board or piece of cardboard wrapped in foil. For a blanket of freshly fallen snow, sprinkle the cake board with finely shredded coconut. And to do it up, add drips of icing to chimneys, windows, and roofs for a wintry effect.

Get Decorating! Here’s a full list of what we used. Apple Jacks Frosted Mini-Wheats gumdrops (small and large)

Build a Basic House

YO U WI LL NEED:

Graham crackers (we used Honey Maid) Small serrated knife Small food-safe paintbrush or butter knife White chocolate, melted Royal icing (see right), for gluing on decorations Cake board or cardboard wrapped in foil Finely shredded coconut Candy, cereal, and cookies, for decorating

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Start with 4 whole graham crackers (4 sections in each): For the side panels, cut 1 graham cracker in half. For the front and back panels, cut the corners off the short end of 2 graham crackers in a triangle shape to create a peak. For the roof, cut 1 graham cracker in half. MAKE IT

Using a paintbrush or a knife, spread melted white chocolate on outer edges of front and back panels, then attach side

panels. Refrigerate until set, about 10 minutes. Arrange roof panels so that they meet at the top, using chocolate as glue (they can extend over the house). Refrigerate for at least 10 minutes before decorating.

For the royal icing: Combine confectioners’ sugar, water, and meringue powder (follow package instructions). Transfer ½ cup icing to a resealable plastic bag, pushing icing toward one side. Twist the remaining part of bag and tie with a rubber band. Snip off a small corner to pipe icing.

gummies hard-candy stars licorice laces M&M’s (mini and regular) Nerds Nestlé Sno-Caps Pepperidge Farm Milano and Pirouette cookies peppermints pretzels (sticks and waffles) Rice Krispies Treats Smarties sour belts sprinkles wafer cookies Walkers Shortbread Scottie Dogs

YOUR KIDS WANT NANA’S COOKIES. YOU’RE NOT NANA.

IT’S GONNA BE GREAT ™

Make Nana proud and everyone else happy. Scan the code for this Holiday Painted Cookies recipe.

K I D S Ñ Pe t s

Animal House! Zuri, 8, and her cat, Skye, 1 photograph by PRISCILL A GR AGG

ZUR I LETS THE C AT OU T OF T H E B AG A B OU T T H I S C O OL F E L I N E : 1

If he were a person, Skye would wear Nikes, a sweatshirt, jeans, and a baseball cap. 3

His breath smells like fish. And he licks people. 4

Skye loves knocking down cups of water. Then he just stares at me when he gets in trouble. 5

At night, he sometimes gets in my bed and climbs on my head.

“I chose him because he wanted to sit in my lap.”

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WARDROBE STYLING BY JILL ROTHSTEIN FOR THE WALL GROUP. HAIRSTYLING BY CLELIA BERGONZOLI FOR UTOPIA. GROOMING BY THORA FOR WALTER SCHUPFER. PROP STYLING BY JOJO LI FOR HELLO ARTISTS. CHILD WRANGLING BY KAYSH SHINN. ON ZURI: SWEATER, TINY COTTON FROM LADIDA.COM. CURTAIN, QUIET TOWN.

Skye wants to eat my cereal and my dinner.

HOW DO YOU SAY,

“THANKS FOR BEING MY FURRY BFF”?

MADE IN THE USA

ALL NATURAL

REAL CHICKEN

TEND TO

S H I M M E RY M A K E U P_ _ _ _ _

YO U R S E LF, B O DY

_ _ _ _ _ A M O M S TA N D - U P S TA R

AND SOUL

TRUE STORIES OF KINDNESS

PROP STYLING BY ELIZABETH PRESS FOR JUDY CASEY INC.

Thanks to an expansive range of shades, Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez Soft Pinch Liquid Blushes ($20 each; sephora.com) are a great buy for anyone on your list.

Gifts Every Mom Wants Until experts invent a miracle tonic that mutes kid whining, pamper your mom friends with one of these presents. Each offers a hit of happy and is useful to boot. by S H A N N O N M . B A U E R photographs by YA S U + J U N KO

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1 3

Scents like citrus and berry are a big step up from the usual hand-sanitizer smell.

4 6

1. When a teacher mentioned that her skin was irritated from all-day mask wearing, we knew just what to give her. The silk Slip Face Covering ($39; slip .com) is ultrasoft, washable, and has adjustable ear loops and an extra set of nose wires.

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2. Lanolips 101 Ointment Multipurpose Superbalm ($17; ulta.com) is a hydrate-anything salve made with vitamin E and lanolin, the natural ingredient many breastfeeding and pumping mamas know well. It works wonders on cuticles, heels, cheeks, and any other mystery dry patches. 3. Help your BFF defeat mask mouth and keep WFH snackinginduced cavities at bay with a Hum by Colgate Smart Battery Powered Toothbrush ($50; hum .colgate.com). In addition to a

sleek pastel design, it has an app that tracks brushing time and points out missed spots. 4. Is there a more 2020 gift than hand sanitizer? This one is our favorite of all: Touchland Hand Sanitizer ($12; touchland.com) absorbs almost instantly, smells fantastic, and kills 99.9 percent of germs without drying out skin. And just look at the sleek containers.

5. The on-the-go essential workers in your life will appreciate the fillable, eco-friendly Palette

by Pak ($39; palettebypak.com), which lets them skip the tiny travel tubes. Each compartment can hold moisturizer, toothpaste, even shampoo—all in one chic case.

6. What’s better to pair with a handwritten note than a really luxurious hand cream? The L’Occitane Hand Cream Collection ($54 for six; loccitane.com) comes with six of the iconic formulas in scents like almond and original (both shown).

YO U Ñ B e aut y

A subtle scent—and proceeds support a good cause.

10 11

7. Longer-lasting than flowers, the Philosophy Amazing Grace Ballet Rose Eau de Parfum ($62; ulta.com) brings you as close to sticking your nose in a rosebud as you can get. Each purchase helps the company support mental-

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health efforts, including trauma recovery and postpartum care.

and Pumpkin Powerhouse, to help brighten skin tones (both shown).

8. Ah, the gift of not having to wash your hair for one more day. Amika Brooklyn Hustle Bestsellers Starter Set ($28; sephora.com) includes a full-size dry shampoo (shown) along with a hydrating mask and a styling cream that works for all hair types.

10. With skin sensitivities on the rise (thank you, stress and dry weather), a kit designed to keep skin clear and hydrated will be very much appreciated. First Aid Beauty All That Fab Set ($49; sephora.com) features the brand’s amazing exfoliating peel pads (shown), plus cleanser, moisturizer, eye cream, and lip balm.

9. Skin care becomes self-care with Bliss Facial Mask Set ($10; target .com). There are four treatments, including Green Tea Wonder, to give oily complexions an assist,

11. Friends and fam with curl types 3a to 4c will be thrilled to try a new set of essentials designed for

them. The Bread Beauty Supply Kit 1-Wash ($58; sephora.com) comes with a hair wash, a mask, a scrunchie, and this beautiful hair oil (shown) that softens and adds shine to wet or dry curls.

12. Uoma Beauty Badass Icon Matte Lipstick in Angela ($24; uomabeauty.com) is part of a Black-owned, shade-inclusive line, and this silky nude hue is named after the Angela Bassett. Consider it a mood boost for anyone on your list, whether they need a fresh look for date night or the energy for one ... more ... Zoom.

YO U Ñ Pe r fe c t i s h B e au t y

Sparkle Saves the Day Glittery makeup in just the right spot can boost your look—and your holiday spirits—whether you’re celebrating virtually or IRL. by S H A N N O N M . B A U E R / photographs by J E F F R E Y W E S T B R O O K

Eyes Tap the creamy, pigmented (1) CoverGirl Exhibitionist Lid Paint in Hi Gorgeous or Night, Night ($8 each; drugstores) onto lids with a finger to create a twinkly effect. If mask life has inspired you to go bolder with your eye-makeup game, consider the (2) Stila Kaleidoscope Eye Shadow Quad in Heaven’s Vault ($28; ulta.com). All you need is a flat brush to dust on one of the celestial powders. Even moms who typically don’t bother with eyeshadow can get into the (3) Maybelline New York Color Strike Eyeshadow Pen in Rally ($9; drugstores). Its cushion applicator is prepared with just the right amount of shadow to blend across lids, which means there’s no messy excess and no brush to clean—just a pretty flash of shimmer.

Skin If you log on to the family video party and your skin looks completely washed out (despite turning on the beauty filter!), (4) Essence Makeup Mosaic Blush ($4; drugstores) is your quick fix. For the ultimate oomph, use a blush brush to sweep a heavier-than-normal layer of the luminous color from the apples of your cheeks to your temples.

B lend s h ade s for a g low y

f lu sh .

On the sparkle meter, (5) Thrive Causemetics Brilliant Face Brightener Illuminating Primer ($35; thrivecausemetics .com) is a comfortable Level 1. The tiny light-reflecting pigments cast an allover glow, so the effect it gives faces is fresh and awake—with or without more makeup on top.

Copper

f l at t e r

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We’d put money on metallic nail polish standing up to multiple rounds of emailing, cookie baking, and toy assembling. In addition to the long-lasting finish, there’s another perk: The streak-resistant formula doesn’t need to be perfectly swiped. Try (6) OPI x Swarovski in This Gold Sleighs Me (shown) or Bling It On!, a more shimmery icy-blue color ($10.50 each; drugstores).

WOMAN: SOPHIA BECK/GALLERY STOCK.

Nails

YO U Ñ C o v e r S t o r y

MICHELLE B U T E AU

The Mom Friend We All Need If you could use a laugh (entire nation raises hand), this charismatic comedian has the answer. Simply take in her hilarious memoir, Survival of the Thickest, or howl along with her raucous stand-up special, Welcome to Buteaupia, on Netflix now. You’ll be an instant superfan, just like comedy legend and fellow mom of twins Wanda Sykes, who gave Parents the ultimate Christmas gift and interviewed our cover star for this story. interview by WA N D A SY K E S photographs by S I L J A M A G G

M I C H E LLE B U T E AU

is one of my favorite comedians—and not just because we both have twins. She is a singular voice in comedy and can always get me to laugh. That’s not easy. Onstage and off, Michelle is warm, honest, and fearlessly funny. In other words, she has no shame, which is my cup of tea ... well, more like my shot of tequila. If you loved her one-hour Netflix special (produced by me and comedian Page Hurwitz), then you are in for a treat! Why? Because I know you want more Michelle, and she is giving you all of it in her new book, out in December. This fall I had a little Zoomy Zoom with her to catch up and talk about motherhood, and why we’re always tired.

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“It is crazy just even trying to change a diaper—it feels like I’m fighting an emotional rotisserie chicken.”

YO U Ñ C o v e r S t o r y

My kids are 11. How old are your twins now?

to that question, it’s mostly not even in what you say, it’s in how you say it.

WA N DA SY K E S :

Hazel and Otis are 1, soon to be 2. So they have the moods of a teenager but the strength of a 35-year-old man. It is crazy just even trying to change a diaper—it feels like I’m fighting an emotional rotisserie chicken. Parenting them can be overwhelming at times, like I’m the only waitress working Thanksgiving at a diner. But then when they play with each other, I’m like, “This is so beautiful,” because I’ve always wanted someone to play with. I’m an only child, and I think it’s a miracle that they will always have each other and have this bond. Plus, people are into twins. I get stopped in the street. Twins make people happy. M I C H E L L E B U T E AU :

We just separated them over the summer because they kept waking each other up and I was becoming a madwoman. B U T E AU :

What’s been your pandemic parenting low point? SY K E S :

Probably the two-week mark, when we realized that this was not going to be only two weeks. I didn’t know if I could do it. Up until then I had always had help with the babies. So being alone with them, it felt like I was snorkeling for the first time and didn’t know how to breathe yet. I felt bad for being impatient. I don’t want to be that parent yelling all the time. I was so tired that I had to write down who pooped! But I quickly learned that it’s all about taking five in the bathroom, recollecting your thoughts, putting on the TV, giving them a crayon, letting them eat the crayon. Don’t quote me! B U T E AU :

Oh, you’re getting quoted. What’s been your high point, do you think? SY K E S :

Realizing that I can do this. Up until the pandemic, we had an amazing nanny, and I had friendships. Now that we’re really broken in as a family, I feel like, “Oh wow, I got this.” B U T E AU :

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Buteau’s book comes out on December 8.

In your memoir, there’s a great chapter on the different kinds of friends women have, like “The Work Wife” and “The Bad Influence.” It sounds like you have good mom friends now. SY K E S :

Oh man, I could write a whole book on mom friends. There’s a granola mom that I check in with to ask, “What does the lavender really do?” And there’s the mom working 100,000 hours a week who tells me, “They’re fine. Their heads are the strongest part of their body.” European mom friends just leave their kid in a stroller outside a restaurant when they go inside. My mom friends in comedy really hold it down for me emotionally because I think my kids ate their first solids, oatmeal, when I was on the road. And one of my friends was like, “It doesn’t matter until you see it. That’s the first time.” I was like, “Yes, I’m going to put that on a magnet so I remember it.” I mean, I learn from everybody, but it’s always important to make your own way too. Take the good and the bad, and then figure out what works for you. B U T E AU :

You went through a five-year journey to have your babies, from IVF to, ultimately, surrogacy. What do you want people to know about parents struggling to conceive? SY K E S :

All you really have to say is, “I’m sorry you’re going through this, and I hope it works out.” Nobody needs your statistics, your opinions. We just need a hug and perhaps a glass of wine. Honestly, sometimes people going through it don’t even know what they’re going through. I didn’t realize I was in a world of hurt until the kids arrived. Then I thought, “How did I just walk around with bruises all over my body and needles in my suitcases, trying to be funny onstage?” That is wild. But to get back B U T E AU :

I remember feeling as if all the women in the office were my sisters in this thing, like, “Wow, this is what we’re doing just to have a family.” It’s crazy. B U T E AU :

You’re candid about racism. But this has been a heavy year for race discussion. What can all parents do to help raise the next generation to have more awareness and sensitivity? SY K E S :

Yeah, that part; awareness and sensitivity. For me, growing up in a very B U T E AU :

Parents’ Lightning Round A L L I WA N T F O R C H R I S T M A S I S . . .

A clean kitchen FAVO R I T E C H R I S T M A S TRADITIONS

Sipping champagne, playing Christmas music with a fire (in the fireplace, hi!), and decorating the tree D R E S S I N G T W I N S T O M AT C H : YES OR NO?

Sadly, no. I’ve tried, but they have such different personalities and therefore different vibes. W H AT M Y A L M O S T-2 -Y E A R - O L D S ARE INTO

Swimming—like they know how? Dutch cheese. Airplanes in the sky. And The Wiggles. Lots of Wiggles! And hugs. FAVO R I T E B O O K T O R E A D T O T H E M

You Made Me a Dad, by Laurenne Sala F I R S T P L AC E I ’ L L G O W H E N I C A N T R AV E L AG A I N

Florida, to see my parents, and Jamaica, to see my extended family B E S T M OV I E S E T I ’ V E B E E N O N

Ah!!! Trick question!!! They’re all magical. O N N E W Y E A R ’ S E V E , I ’ L L B E . . .

In bed by 9:45 p.m., hoping for a better year for all

WARDROBE STYLING BY ANNIE CARUSO. SET DESIGN BY TODD WIGGINS. HAIRSTYLING BY KYRSTEN ORIOL. MAKEUP BY LATISHA RANKIN. MANICURE BY FRANCES LIANG. CHILD WRANGLING BY KAYSH SHINN. PREVIOUS SPREAD: DRESS, BADGLEY MISCHKA. SHOES, LOEFFLER RANDALL. EARRINGS, CANDID ART AVAILABLE AT OYSTERGENERAL.COM. THIS SPREAD, ON MICHELLE: DRESS, AZEEZA FOR 11 HONORÉ. SHOES, SJP BY SARAH JESSICA PARKER. EARRINGS, DANNIJO. ON HAZEL: TOP, ZARA. BLOOMERS, LES GAMINS. ON OTIS: PAJAMAS, CHASING WINDMILLS.

Twins are just the best. You and [your husband] Gijs can sit and have a glass of rosé while they entertain each other. Do they still share a room? SY K E S :

We did IVF too. Well, my wife, Alex, did. At the doctor appointments, there was a weird vibe because everyone in the waiting room was hopeful, but everything was extremely private. You just make eye contact with people to try and communicate, “I hope it all works out.” SY K E S :

and to celebrate their culture. Before, I didn’t understand what the work of parenting would be. I knew I had to change diapers, figure out meal plans, and do drop-offs at a game or something, but now, when they’re old enough, I have to teach them about science and viruses and politics and being mindful of other people. And also justice. How can we make people laugh, Michelle? SY K E S :

I’m still trying to figure that out. I miss being petty. I miss being mad at people for no reason. I miss stand-up and realize now how therapeutic it was for me to connect with people—just to yell righteous stuff onstage. I’m glad my special is out—it was taped right before New York City was locked down. Remember when my mom tried to make a toast at the after-party? She said, “I’m so proud of my daughter. She graduated school and had a job that paid six figures and didn’t need to do comedy.” I’m like, “No! Get to the toast, woman!” If I ever give a toast to my kids, I’m going to keep it short and sweet. B U T E AU :

What are the holidays like in your house? SY K E S :

I like to start early, get it done. I like themes. My parents are from the Caribbean, so they string lights on a plant and that’s it. As a kid, I wanted a big American Christmas, and they were like, “Go to the Dollar Store and do your thing,” and I just learned how to be crafty. I think there’s an inner plus-size Martha Stewart somewhere in my body. Around Thanksgiving is when I start with the tree because you have to go early to get a good one. I really want us to make our own traditions—I just don’t know what all of them are yet. We are not really into gifts, and it’s not just because my husband is Dutch, though that’s part of it. We’re into living our lives like it’s a celebration all year long. B U T E AU :

working-class Irish- and Italian-Catholic part of New Jersey, it was really annoying that I felt like the Obama at every dinner table, where I had to explain to people what colonialism is and how diverse the Caribbean is. There’s no excuse for us not to know anymore. There’s Google, there’s YouTube. The world does feel smaller with social media—that’s probably one of the good parts. It’s important to be educated and have conversations about derogatory words and colorism. I don’t ever want my kids to feel bad for being who they are. Damn. What about you?

It’s hard. I want my kids to be able to have a clean slate and judge through their own eyes and their own experiences. But when my 11-year-old son said something about Christopher Columbus “discovering” America, I said, “That’s BS.” SY K E S :

I really hope that history books will be rewritten. I don’t know if it’ll be in our lifetime, or maybe even in their lifetime. But now that I’ve moved to a predominantly white neighborhood in the Bronx, it’s on me to show my kids who they are and where they’re from, B U T E AU :

Get More Fun in Your Feed!

Simply hover your phone’s camera over the smart code to find Michelle Buteau on Instagram.

Aisles

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For more holiday tips, download our Holiday Favorites booklet at parentspromo.com

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YO U Ñ R e a d e r E s s a y s

The Act of Kindness That Touched Our Family This Year In our call for reader essays, we asked you to tell us about an experience that reminded you of the power of compassion and generosity in 2020 —a year that has called for much of both. Here are the seven winning stories.

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THE FINALISTS

The Neighbors Stepped Up Jennifer A. Haynes; St. Charles, MO M Y FA M I LY LI V E S

T H E $1,000 GRAND PRIZE WINNER

A Birthday Gift That Meant Everything Courtney Lacy; Wheaton, IL

MY HUSBAND

opened the door of the bedroom, which had become his quarantine, to wheeze, “There’s a delivery, and they’re on their way up.” John had just gotten home from the hospital after the first of what would be two visits for COVID-19. He interrupted my frenzy to clean the apartment that we had just moved into while I corralled our inquisitive daughter, Cora. I looked at him thinking maybe he’d planned something, but there was no gleam in his eyes, only a deadpan glaze of illness. I heard a knock and opened the door, and discovered a red box and a balloon with “Happy Birthday!” on it. Tears welled in my eyes as I picked it up and read the card.

John, at home on the mend, with 1-year-old daughter Cora

“Happy birthday to you and your daughter! Wishing you a wonderful day despite these difficult times. Paula.” Here’s the thing: I’d never even met Paula. Paula was a woman I talked to for five minutes days earlier when she called for information on a document that my husband wasn’t able to sign when he visited the emergency room where she worked. She asked me if we were okay and I answered honestly, “We are healthy enough, but both my daughter and I are having birthdays this weekend and my husband has COVID.” She listened as I expressed my intense worry and cried a few tears. That month brought enormous challenges as John returned to the hospital for four days and was still on oxygen when he got back home. I will be forever grateful for friends and family who helped, but Paula’s gesture of chocolate strawberries and that beautiful balloon, which stayed floating where my newly 1-year-old daughter could see it, represented how a simple act of kindness can make things okay, even if for a moment.

in a suburban area that’s largely white. We, along with many families, have been stressed-out dealing with COVID. My children went months without seeing their grandparents. We canceled birthday parties and other celebrations. And then the deaths of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd became headline news. For us as a Black family, these deaths brought up emotions that my neighbors didn’t feel. We watched neighborhood social-media conversations that made us worry—afraid of being profiled. My husband wouldn’t walk alone, only with our children, hoping that people wouldn’t see him as threatening. We never said anything to our neighbors. One day we came home to a red balloon shaped like a heart taped to the front of our door, with a note that said, “You are loved.” It was such a simple thing, but it meant the world to us. The same day, a local church held a prayer service in a nearby park to pray for justice and peace in our country. I wasn’t going to go, but at the last minute I decided to attend with my 3-year-old. The kind words that we received after the service left me pretty emotional—but this time in a good way. And since then, other neighbors have reached out just to let us know they want us to feel welcome, value our presence, and are open to listening and learning. Love can be found in small gestures; what can be insignificant to one person might mean so much to another.

YO U Ñ R e a d e r E s s a y s

A Text Message Cheered Me Through WFH Chaos Hayley Duncan; Chattanooga, TN MY WILD AND WONDERFUL

OPENING PAGE: JAMIE GRILL ATLAS/STOCKSY. HEADSHOTS: COURTESY OF THE SUBJECTS.

16-monthold had just bounced her sweet head off the floor yet again, after climbing onto the low windowsill she ascends many times a day—her own precarious Everest. Chaos ensued, and I was nearing tears as I held her, applying the mommy treatment of a barrage of kisses and cuddles. No one had prepared me for working from home while caring for a fearless toddler. I felt overwhelmed, my inner monologue telling me I wasn’t good enough or strong enough, and I was failing at this motherhood thing.

I Had a Support Team in My Front Yard Julianne Reel; Ostrander, OH I N F E B R UA RY

of this year, I was diagnosed with Stage II breast cancer. My first day of chemotherapy was also the first day Ohio went into full lockdown due to COVID-19. Since not much was known at the time about the virus and the spread seemed to be fast, my team of doctors recommended that my immediate family and I go into quarantine. Chemotherapy weakens the immune system and makes patients more susceptible to infection, so prevention is key. These months have been hard on me, my daughter, and my husband.

As if on cue, my phone pinged, and after soothing my strong-willed child and getting her back on her feet and, naturally, watching her immediately try again to climb the windowsill, I opened the message. “I just need to tell you that the most beautiful thing I’ve gotten to witness in your life is watching you be a mom. It seriously brings me so much joy! As talented as you are, as kind and funny as you are, watching you be a mommy has been my favorite.” And there, without even knowing it, my friend Megan had dissolved me into a blubbering mess. She had no idea that this was exactly what I needed to hear, at the exact moment I needed to hear it. She had bolstered my confidence and reminded me that motherhood is my calling, my joy, and my greatest achievement, even when it’s hard. My gratitude was immense. Sometimes the greatest kindnesses are the smallest votes of confidence at just the right time. So I headed back to Baby Everest, ready for the next descent.

After my diagnosis, the outpouring of support from friends and family was amazing. We couldn’t order toilet paper and the risk of going into the stores was too great, so friends would drop some off when they could find it. Even now, I receive cards with words of encouragement, handmade masks, and offers of meals. But what stands out most are my two friends, Tracy and Jessica, who trek to my house every chemotherapy day to decorate my front yard while I’m gone. This afternoon, I came home to mermaid tails sticking up among the pansies in my flower beds. Last week, there were these wonderful little butterflies. I am blessed to have these ladies lift my spirits. In the midst of tending to physical needs, we sometimes overlook the emotional ones. During this time of upheaval when we are all on edge due to lockdowns, protests, and the new normal, we need acts of emotional kindness. We need to build each other up, not tear each other down.

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YO U Ñ R e a d e r E s s a y s

Our Minivan Was Gone. They Got Us Home. Erica Coleman Wagner Ramstetter Vancouver, WA IMAGINE GET TING

My Folks Gave Us the Gift of Parenthood Sherry Lynn Morrissey Grand Forks, ND F O R T H E PA S T F I V E Y E A R S ,

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we have struggled with the painful rollercoaster ride of infertility. I have been through eight cycles of ovulationinducing meds, two inseminations, five rounds of IVF, one surgery on my ovaries, four embryos that wouldn’t implant, three egg retrievals, four infertility doctors, one miscarriage, countless pills, injections, blood draws, ultrasounds, and negative pregnancy tests, many road trips to our IVF clinic in Minneapolis, and an awful medication allergy that landed me in the E.R. twice. In order to afford all this, we used our savings and my husband sold his beloved 2018 Dodge Challenger. By the fourth failed attempt, we were heartbroken and out of funds. I asked my mom, “What if the next round works?” We’d come this far; I just couldn’t stop thinking how the next time could be “the one.” My parents surprised me at work one day and took me out to lunch. Inside a Panera Bread restaurant, they handed me an envelope. In it was a check for $15,000 to help cover our next IVF round. My parents are by no means rich. They’d been saving this money for their retirement and had plans to move to Florida. I cried right there and thanked them for their gift. Last November, our one and only remaining embryo was transferred into my uterus. I am so excited to share that I gave birth to our son, Leo, on July 18! Thank you, Mom and Dad.

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dressed after a parent-and-tot swim class. Your 2-year-old, eager to rejoin his dad and baby brother, darts toward the locker-room exit. As you toss on your coat, hustling after him, you realize your pockets are empty. Your hastily stashed cell phone, wallet, and car keys are gone. You’ve been robbed. It gets worse. Your family’s minivan has been stolen, too—kids’ car seats and all—with your husband’s wallet inside. Now you and your family are stranded miles from home, without cash, credit cards, or anyone to bail you out. That was the panic-inducing scenario my family faced one cold February night this year. If not for the kindness of two staff members, things would have been even worse. As my husband searched nearby for the minivan, I went to the front desk, where Heather gave me a worried smile. She recognized us from previous swim classes and could tell something was off. “Our car was stolen!” I cried. Heather helped me call the police. Matt, another staffer, let my husband borrow his truck and fetch our emergency money from home to buy new car seats. Heather stayed with me and the kids in the closed center, watching my toddler run around the lobby while I nursed the baby. When my husband returned in Matt’s truck, Heather volunteered to install the new car seats in her SUV and drive us home. Thanks to Heather and Matt, we didn’t have to walk 10 miles in the dark. Their kindness brought us safely home and filled us with gratitude when so much else had been taken away.

Friends Built What Our Girl Needed Mary Nockles; Los Angeles, CA W E H AV E 3 -Y E A R - O L D

twins and an extremely active 4-year-old daughter, Matilda. When I say “active,” I mean she climbs every cupboard, crevice, and counter in the house. She can scale the 7-foot chain-link fence in our backyard and basically has zero fear of heights. When she was diagnosed with autism recently,

we finally had the answer for her daredevil behavior and her sensory needs. In the weeks after, it felt like we were in free fall, grasping at all the resources being thrown our way and trying to understand our new circumstances (and did I mention the 3-year-old twins?). Most of the people we told responded with shock, stunned silence, or a heartbreaking “Sorry.” Then, out of nowhere, our friends Chad and Tara simply said, “We’re going to build you a climbing wall.” They’d done their research into the tactile needs of kids with autism, and instead of saying few or no words, they went directly into action. They arrived at the house to take some measurements, and two weeks later returned with an 8x12-foot solid hardwood, handmade, hand-painted climbing wall. Even the climbing holds had been designed to provide different colored “routes”

for Matilda to follow. It was way better than any wall we’d seen at her therapy gym. It took an entire afternoon for them to install, and I can only assume countless hours and effort for them to build. Then together we sat and watched with full hearts and big smiles as Matilda scaled it like a cat and giggled and squeaked with joy.

Matilda on her custom climbing wall

The first trash bag worthy of a smile. Glad Beachside Breeze

fig. 1

Happiness

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H O L I D AY- C O O K I E S P E C TA C U L A R

THE JOURNEY TOGETHER

A KID -PROOF TREE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _FESTIVE COMFORT FOOD

One thing’s for certain this year: Santa Claus is definitely still coming to town.

GRETCHEN EASTON.

A Month of Merry! Deliver all the seasonal sparkle kids crave without spending a bundle or overloading your own to-do list. Here are more than 25 simple, surprising, and low-cost ways to make the family magic happen. by L I Z C A L L A H A N SCHNABOLK

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KEEP THEM AS B U SY A S E LV E S

Level Up Your Traditions Give your go-to classic holiday activities a boost this year. CAROLING

CHRISTMAS CAROL KARAOKE

Download a karaoke app (we like Karaoke— Sing Unlimited Songs, free for iOS), and see which family member can belt out the jazziest “Jingle Bell Rock.”

C O O K I E D E C O R AT I N G

A SUGARPLUM BAKE-OFF

Unroll a tube of thin-crust pizza dough and cut into triangles; save the scraps. Fold up bottoms to form hat cuffs. Roll scraps into balls for hat pom-poms. Spread tomato sauce over hats and dab ricotta cheese on cuffs and pom-poms. C R A F T A H AT.

all about presents, Everyday Jewish Mom blogger Marti Kerner themes each night. The first is Dreidel Night—her kid’s fave. This year she’s adding a cooking competition and a night to Zoom with family (because 2020). Nights for crafts, stories, games, meditation, and a big dinner round out the revelry.

A S S E M B L E A C A N DY- L E S S

Arrange sliced bananas and strawberries or fresh mozzarella and tomato on a plate, alternating colors to look like a candy cane, suggests Deanna F. Cook, author of the cookbook Food Faces. CANE.

Elevate Hanukkah To make each evening of the holiday uniquely fun and not

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Spread the Good Will TRY A DIFFE RE NT ADVE NT

Instead of giving candy each day, Susie Allison, author of Busy Toddler’s Guide to Actual Parenting, designed a 25-link paper chain with an act of kindness (bring cookies to the fire station! donate food from the pantry!) on each link. A D O P T A N I C E R E L F . If The Elf on the Shelf isn’t your jam, CALENDAR.

Make Christmas Morning Full of Glee On Christmas Eve, Studio DIY blogger Kelly Mindell and her husband seal the living-room doorway with wrapping paper. “It adds to the magic that our son has to bust through it before he can see what Santa left,” she says. BURST IN.

CHECK THE SECURITY CAM.

“Every year, my husband makes a video of Santa getting caught on our Nest cam,” says Holly Homer, author of 101 Kids Activities That Are the Bestest, Funnest Ever! The video usually catches Santa eating cookies or napping on the couch after dropping presents under the tree. (You can also use an app like Santa Spy Cam to make one.) TA K E A T I M E - L A P S E V I D E O .

H O L I D AY L I G H T S D R I V E

I L L U M I N AT E D S CAV E N G E R H U N T

As you scope out the neighborhood displays, turn it into a scavenger hunt, suggests Heidi Kundin, who blogs at Happiness Is Homemade. Give each family member a list of common decorations (a wreath, an inflatable Santa, a menorah in a window) and see who can check them all off first.

Set a camera in front of the tree on Christmas morning and have your family exclaim, “Merry Christmas!” suggests Hello Wonderful blogger Agnes Hsu, who started the tradition last year. “It’ll be fun to stitch the clips together to show how we’ve grown,” she says. G A M E U P T H E G I F T S . Santa doesn’t let Bianca Dottin’s kids off easy: He leaves one toy (and clue!) under the tree and sends everyone to search for the rest. “My daughter loves reading each clue and hunting for the next gift,” says the Orlando-based lifestyle expert.

DANE TASHIMA.

Create Festive Food

One Handy Momma blogger and DIYer Nneka Mosley likes to set up at-home cooking challenges with her fam and give them a holiday twist. “We even take turns being the judge, like on TV,” she adds. Homemade Peppermint Patties, M&M’s brownies, and Oreo truffles have come out of Christmases past.

meet The Kindness Elves. Rather than reporting your kid’s behavior to Santa, these cuties offer a daily do-good idea, like “Set the table.” (Order your own set from theimaginationtreestore .com, or use any figurines.)

A LITTLE TASTE OF HOME IS WORTH SHARING.

L I F E Ñ C e l e br a t e

F I N D J O L LY E N T E R TA I N M E N T

Books to Hype the Big Day Bring Santa to Life Getting that photo of your kid perched on the big guy’s lap may not be possible in the age of social distancing. Here are a few ways to keep the red-suit vibes strong.

Not even Santa can escape the year of videoconferencing! Head to jinglering.com to set up a time to chat live with the man in red, or opt for a recorded message that your kids can play over and over (and over!) again. The many personalization options mean you can choose a Santa of a certain ethnicity or even one who knows sign language. Packages start at $20. G E T T H E P H O T O . Pop Santa or his elves right into your GO VIRTUAL .

holiday pics with a selfiewith-Santa app (free for iOS and Android), and consider your holiday ’gram post done. T H R O W O N T H E S U I T.

There’s an entire website, SantaSuitExpress.com, dedicated to reviewing the many (and there are many) Santa-suit options available. Decide on a budget, then split one of this site’s top picks with your pod to take turns surprising each other’s kids throughout the month.

5 More Sleeps ’Til Christmas Written by Jimmy Fallon, illustrated by Rich Deas The late-night talk-show host’s fourth children’s book captures the excitement kids feel leading up to Christmas morning. The text gives off vibes of “’Twas the Night Before Christmas”: “I have to go to bed! But visions of my favorite toys keep dancing in my head.” Ages 4 to 8

Li’l Rabbit’s Kwanzaa Written by Donna L. Washington, illustrated by Shane W. Evans In a story about generosity and kindness, a young rabbit and his animal friends bring the community together for Karamu, a Kwanzaa feast. The final pages describe the seven principles of Kwanzaa in a kid-friendly way. Ages 4 to 8

Happy Llamakkah!

Films for All the Feels Cue up your movie night with these classic holiday picks suggested by Erik Davis, dad of two and managing editor at Fandango.

Written by Laura Gehl, illustrated by Lydia Nichols Fun illustrations of a llama family enjoying Hanukkah traditions set the tone for this story that’s light on text but filled with warmth. Ages 3 to 5

Always Together at Christmas Written by Sara Sargent, illustrated by Mark Chambers You may need to adjust your family’s holiday traditions for safety, and this book—with cozy illustrations of Santa Claus wearing a mask and families unwrapping presents over Zoom—assures kids that “Christmas will always mean love, even if love feels a little different this year.” Ages 3+

Disney: Storybook Collection Advent Calendar

The Santa Clause “They’ll love imagining what it would be like if a family member had to take on the role of Santa,” Davis says. More to stream: Miracle on 34th Street, Elf, Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town

When your kid is obsessed with their wish list …

A Christmas Story “The main character sees that being with family is better than getting any present,” Davis explains. More to stream: Jingle All the Way, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Gremlins (for older kids)

When you want everyone to get on the warm, fuzzy train ...

A Christmas Carol “For younger kids, watch the Muppets’ version,” Davis suggests. “It shows how holiday memories help fuel us for the year.” More to stream: It’s a Wonderful Life, Home Alone, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

Latkes for Santa Claus Written by Janie Emaus, illustrated by Bryan Langdo In one of the few holiday books about families who celebrate both Hanukkah and Christmas, Anna reasons that Santa must be “really tired of cookies.” She brainstorms snacks that blend her mom’s Jewish heritage with her stepdad’s traditions, landing on the recipe that’s included in the back of the book. Ages 3 to 6 —Karen Cicero

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MOVIE STILLS: EVERETT COLLECTION. BOOKS: JACOB FOX.

When you want your kid to believe for just one more year ...

If your kid has whosits and whatsits galore, trade in the trinket-filled advent calendar for this nearly 2-foot-tall creation with 24 mini books. Each day, your reader-intraining will unwrap a new story featuring Disney characters, like Olaf’s Frozen Adventure and Belle to the Rescue. Ages 3+

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Joy is priceless. The rest is really affordable. The joy of the holidays is in how we celebrate together, even if it isn’t how we had planned. You can still enjoy the holidays, at a price you love, in the comfort of a place that’s always been home.

L I F E Ñ C e l e br a t e

HO -HO -HO THE WHOLE HOUSE

Festive, Free Décor Upcycle bits and bobs from around the house to DIY these creations from Rachel Faucett, author of The Handmade Charlotte Playbook .

S TA R T W I T H . . . WR APPI N G - PAPE R TU B E S

Make Holiday Candles

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Set up a mini Christmas tree—and give your kid creative control. “Every year, we decorate my daughter’s tree with all her hair bows,” says Amanda Star, co-owner of Tig & Peach, a children’s playspace in Pelham, New York. (You can find a small faux fir at Target for under $30 to use year after year.) C R E A T E A F R O S T Y F L U R R Y . Cut paper snowflakes and string them across the ceiling, the windows, or even a canopy bed. “It makes for the most magical place to watch holiday movies,” Mindell says. S A N T A - F Y F A M I LY P H O T O S . “We put Santa hats on all the framed photos in our house,” Mindell adds. Her kids make tiny hats out of red construction paper and white pom-poms, then tape them to each picture. E N L I S T T H E L E G O . Last year, The Organized Mama blogger Jessica Litman built a menorah out of blue LEGO bricks complete with candles from LEGO flame pieces. “My kids were obsessed with adding the flames each night,” says Litman. Encourage kids to freestyle decorations, or head to lego .brickinstructions.com for directions. C A S T A W A R M G L O W . Hang a set of string lights to the underside of a dining table and drape a tablecloth over it for the coolest fort ever, suggests Lydia Diaz, who runs the Etsy shop Clever Girls Craftings. DO UP THEIR ROOM.

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Cut an empty wrapping-paper roll into various lengths. Paint each in different colors and patterns. On the top edge of each “candle,” snip 2 slits, about ½- to ¾-in. deep, opposite each other. For the “flames,” make circles by tracing a drinking glass onto corrugated cardboard. Cut out circles and paint yellow and white. Flatten and fold gold cupcake liners in half. Cut out flame shapes and use Mod Podge glue to adhere to the center of each circle. Use contrasting paint to add lines radiating from the flames. Set into the slits of each candle. Add a dab of glue to lock in place.

S TA R T W I T H . . . WHITE BALLOONS

Make a Snowman Garland Tie 2 white semi-inflated balloons together. For the snowman’s scarf, cut ½ in. off the edge of a cupcake liner or a piece of scrap paper. Wrap it around the tails of the 2 balloons, using a dab of glue to secure the 2 ends together. Use markers to draw on buttons and facial features. Make a few and turn them into a wintery garland by taping a piece of baking twine or string to the back of their heads.

Pin the Crafts Simply hover your phone’s camera over the smart code to save these projects on Pinterest.

TOP LEFT: PRISCILLA GRAGG. RIGHT: HANDMADE CHARLOTTE (2).

Let the Kids Deck the Halls

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L I F EÑ C o o k i e s

Gingerbread Stars For recipe, see page 96.

KIDS CAN H E L P . . .

S E AS ON’S TRE ATI NG S Spread holiday cheer in the form of deliriously delicious cookies. Making them with your kids is all part of the fun. recipes by M I C A H M O R T O N / photographs by J E N C AU S E Y

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FOOD STYLING BY RISHON HANNERS. PROP STYLING BY CLAIRE SPOLLEN.

Use the rolling pin and cut out the star shapes. Paint the glaze on top. Sprinkle on the “glitter.”

Visit cheesecakeforsanta.com for Santa's favorite cheesecake recipes.

L I F EÑ C o o k i e s

Sparkle Sugar Cookies Active time 20 minutes Total time 50 minutes Makes 40 cookies

I N G R E DI E N T S 21/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for surface 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar 1/2 tsp. kosher salt Sanding sugar or nonpareils MAKE IT

1. Preheat oven to 350°F with racks in upper-third and lowerthird positions. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper; set aside. Pulse flour, butter, confectioners’ sugar, and salt in a food processor until a dough ball begins to form, about 25 pulses. 2. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface; knead until dough is uniform and comes together, about 3 times. Roll out dough to about a 1/4-in. thickness. Using a 2-in. round cookie cutter, cut out cookies, rerolling scraps once (you should have about 40 cookies total). Arrange rounds at least 1/2 in. apart on prepared baking sheets. 3. Using a knife, gently score each dough round with a light line across middle of cookie. Working with 1 dough round at a time, hold a bench scraper or a spatula over dough in alignment with the scored line, barely touching the dough with scraper. Sprinkle half of the dough round (using the bench scraper as a barrier) with sanding sugar. Then gently press decorations into dough. 4. Bake cookies until tops are dry but cookies have not started to brown, rotating baking sheets between top and bottom racks halfway through, about 10 minutes. Let cool completely on baking sheets, about 15 minutes.

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KIDS CAN H E L P . . .

Squish the dough with their fingers. Stamp out circles. Choose their favorite color sanding sugar.

L I F EÑ C o o k i e s

Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies Active time 15 minutes Total time 2 hours Makes 2 dozen

I N G R E DI E N T S 2 cups all-purpose flour 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa 1 tsp. baking powder 1/4 tsp. baking soda 1/4 tsp. kosher salt 1/2 cup packed light-brown sugar 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted 2 large eggs 1 Tbs. whole milk 2 tsp. red liquid food coloring 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar MAKE IT

1. Preheat oven to 350°F with racks in upper-third and lowerthird positions. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. Whisk flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. Set aside. 2. Whisk brown sugar, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a large bowl. Add eggs and whisk until combined. Add milk and food coloring; whisk until combined. Gently fold in flour mixture using a spatula to form a sticky dough. Cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until dough is slightly firm and easy to scoop and roll, about 1 hour. 3. Place confectioners’ sugar in a medium bowl. Scoop dough using a 11/2-Tbs. scoop or a spoon, and roll into balls using hands (you should have 24 balls total). Drop dough balls into confectioners’ sugar in bowl, and gently toss with your hands to coat well. 4. Evenly space coated dough balls 2 in. apart on prepared sheets. Bake, rotating baking sheets between top and bottom racks halfway through bake time, until cookies spread and crack, 8 to 10 minutes, Let cookies cool on sheets 10 minutes. Transfer to wire racks, and let cool completely, about 30 minutes.

More Ways to Decorate Cookies

Simply hover your phone’s camera over the smart code for holiday cookie tips and tricks.

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L I F EÑ C o o k i e s

No-Bake Confetti Truffles Active time 25 minutes Total time 25 minutes Makes 32 truffles

I N G R E DI E N T S 21/2 cups powdered milk 2 cups confectioners’ sugar, plus more for dusting 1 14-oz. can sweetened condensed milk Confetti sprinkles MAKE IT

1. Sift powdered milk and confectioners’ sugar into a medium bowl. Pour condensed milk into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment; beat on low speed, gradually adding powdered-milk mixture, 1/2 cup at a time, until mixture is sticky and thick, about 2 minutes.

KIDS CAN HE LP ...

Roll dough into balls with confectioners’ sugar–covered hands. Smoosh sprinkles into dough.

2. Using hands coated with confectioners’ sugar, divide dough evenly into 4 balls. Transfer dough balls to a surface lightly dusted with confectioners’ sugar; cover with plastic wrap. 3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and lightly dust with confectioners’ sugar; set aside. Working with 1 dough ball at a time and with hands coated in confectioners’ sugar, knead dough ball until smooth and less sticky, about 2 minutes, adding more confectioners’ sugar as needed. 4. Divide first dough ball evenly into 8 pieces, and roll each piece into a 1-in. ball. Press sprinkles onto outside of ball, and roll between your hands until smooth. Transfer to prepared baking sheet. Repeat process with remaining 3 dough balls. Truffles may be stored in an airtight container at room temperature up to 3 days. These No-Bake Confetti Truffles are a take on Venezuelan Papitas de Leche. For more Latin holiday sweets, check out the December/ January issue of our sister magazine, Parents Latina, on Apple News + and at magazine.store.

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L I F EÑ C o o k i e s

the best gifts come straight out of the oven.

1/4 cup half-and-half 11/2 tsp. pure vanilla extract 2 large eggs For the glaze: 1 cup confectioners’ sugar 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted 3 Tbs. whole milk Confetti sprinkles, nonpareils, and/or sanding sugar, for decorating MAKE IT

1. Prepare cookies: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Whisk flour, ginger, baking soda, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. Set aside.

2. Sprinkle cranberries, white-chocolate chips, pomegranate arils, and cornflakes evenly over melted chocolate, gently pressing toppings into chocolate. Refrigerate until set, about 30 minutes. 3. Break bark into 16 pieces, about 2 to 5 in. each, and serve. Store in an airtight container in refrigerator up to 1 week.

Fruity, Flaky Bark Active time 10 minutes Total time 40 minutes Makes 16 pieces

I N G R E DI E N T S 10 oz. milk chocolate, chopped (about 2 cups) 10 oz. 60% cacao bittersweet chocolate, chopped (about 2 cups) 1/4 cup unsweetened dried cranberries 1/4 cup white-chocolate chips 1/4 cup pomegranate arils 1/4 cup frosted cornflakes

KIDS CAN HE LP ...

Be your copilot on measuring. Sprinkle mix-ins.

MAKE IT

1. Line a rimmed 9x13-in. baking sheet with parchment paper. Microwave milk chocolate on high for 30 seconds in a small microwavable bowl. Stir. Continue microwaving, stopping to stir at 15-second intervals, until melted, about 30 seconds total. Spread melted chocolate onto left side of prepared baking sheet (about a 9x6-in. rectangle). Repeat melting process with bittersweet chocolate; spread onto right side of baking sheet. The two melted chocolates should meet in the middle of the baking sheet.

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F R O M PA G E 8 6

Gingerbread Stars Active time 40 minutes Total time 2 hours Makes About 5 dozen

I N G R E DI E N T S For the cookies: 5 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for surface 2 tsp. ground ginger 11/2 tsp. baking soda 11/2 tsp. ground cinnamon 1 cup packed lightbrown sugar 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened 3/4 cup unsulfured molasses

2. Beat brown sugar and butter in a large bowl with an electric mixer on medium speed until fluffy, 2 to 3 minutes. Reduce mixer speed to low. Add molasses, half-and-half, vanilla, and 1 egg; beat until combined, 1 to 2 minutes, gradually increasing speed to medium. Reduce mixer speed to low; gradually add flour mixture in 4 additions, beating until incorporated, about 2 minutes total. 3. Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface, and knead until dough comes together, 30 seconds to 1 minute. Divide dough evenly into 2 disks. Wrap 1 disk in plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to use. Roll out remaining disk to a 1/4-in. thickness. Using star-shaped cookie cutters in various sizes, cut shapes from dough. Arrange half the stars on prepared baking sheet. Lightly beat remaining egg in a small bowl; brush over stars on baking sheet. Bake until lightly browned on bottoms, 10 to 12 minutes. 4. Let cookies cool on baking sheet 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack, and let cool completely, about 20 minutes. Meanwhile, repeat process with remaining dough stars. 5. Repeat process with remaining dough disk. 6. Prepare glaze: Whisk confectioners’ sugar, melted butter, and milk in a bowl. Brush glaze onto cooled cookies. Add decorations immediately. Let stand until set, about 30 minutes.

holiday spirit ° is baked at 350 .

L I F EÑH o m e

S AV E M Y S PA C E

How Do I Protect the Christmas Tree From My Kids and Pets? Support the spruce! Three design pros share what works at their house during the holidays. by A D R I E N N E FA R R

THE CELEBRITY DESIGNER A N D T V H O S T S AY S . . .

T H E I N F L U E N C E R S AYS . . .

“Tame the green monster of extension cords on the floor; it’s crucial to prevent tripping. You can buy a floor-cord cover kit to hide the clutter or get easy-to-use removable adhesive strips to fasten cords to the floor. To minimize the chance of a tot or a pet bumping into the tree, place it in a corner away from high-traffic areas. A tip-proof tree might be the greatest gift you can give yourself: Secure the tree to the wall by wrapping a piece of fine-gauge wire around the mid-upper trunk of the tree and then tying the other end to a hook that is drilled into the wall. Crisis averted!” —Sabrina Soto, mom of one in Los Angeles and host of HGTV’s The High/Low Project

“Setting up a toy train around the base is a great way to keep curious hands at a distance. Kids will be mesmerized by the tracks and won’t touch the tree (bonus points for making Christmas more magical). Or create a barrier with large, heavy decorative gift boxes. You can wrap anything (like canned pantry items) to weigh them down. Just use pretty paper. Another awesome deterrent: Put giant jingle bells in a few places at the bottom of the tree. That way you’ll be alerted if Whiskers or Junior is playing with it when you’re not looking.”

T H E M A S T E R C R A F T E R S AYS . . .

—Tiffany DeLangie, mom of three in Raleigh, North Carolina, and creator of PrettyRealBlog.com and @prettyrealblog

Make Your Own Unbreakables “Swap delicate glass ornaments for ones made from felt, pompoms, and paper instead. You can get crafty and design your own: Trace holiday cookie cutters onto cardstock and let little ones color them in. Or cut squares out of cardboard, cover them in wrapping paper, and tie with bows to make tiny

present ornaments. Buy cute baker’s twine to make loop hangers. But avoid ornaments that resemble food (candy, gingerbread). They look good enough to eat when you’re just a 3-year-old.” —Amanda Kingloff, mom of two in Brooklyn, New York, and founder of ProjectKid.com

Have a home-décor, organizing, or cleaning question? Email us at savemyspace@parents.com.

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FROM LEFT: TOM BAKER/GETTY; GRETCHEN EASTON; BG COLLECTION/GALLERY STOCK.

Build Your Barricade

Tidy and Tether

L I F E — Fo o d

If your family’s idea of a holiday bucket list is to eat, play, and nap , embrace it! These cozy, make-ahead meals are sure to keep everyone blissful throughout the winter break. recipes by A N N A H E L M B A X T E R / photographs by C A I T L I N B E N S E L

FOR CHRISTMAS MORNING

Refuel the kids after they’ve torn open presents at the crack of dawn.

Candy Cane Cinnamon Rolls For recipe, see page 106.

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FOR BRUNCHES A N D N O S H I N G

Prep a satisfying sheet-pan quiche that can feed your whole pod—or leave you with plenty of leftovers that will taste amazing later, even at room temp.

Sweet Potato, Apple & Gruyère Quiche Active time 45 minutes Total time 2 hours 20 minutes Makes 12 servings

I N G R E DI E N T S For the crust: 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for hands 2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese 3/4 tsp. kosher salt 11/4 cups (21/2 sticks) very cold unsalted butter, cubed 1 to 3 Tbs. ice water, as needed For the filling: 1 Tbs. olive oil 1 cup finely chopped onion 1 tsp. kosher salt, divided 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-in. pieces (33/4 cups)

1 large, crisp apple (such as Gala; do not peel), cut into 1/2-in. pieces (11/2 cups) 1 tsp. coarsely chopped fresh thyme leaves 8 large eggs 1 cup whole milk 1 cup half-and-half 1/2 tsp. black pepper 11/2 cups grated Gruyère cheese MAKE IT

1. Prepare crust: Pulse flour, Parmesan, and salt in a food processor until combined, 6 to 8 pulses. Add butter; pulse until pea-size crumbs form, 8 to 12 pulses. With food processor running, add 1 Tbs. ice water. Pulse mixture until dough forms a ball, 6 to 8 pulses (if dough doesn’t come together, add up to remaining 2 Tbs. water, 1 tsp. at a time, pulsing to combine).

2. Using lightly floured hands, press dough evenly into bottom and up sides of a 12x17-in. rimmed baking sheet. Cover with plastic wrap and chill until dough firms up, at least 20 minutes or up to 24 hours. 3. Preheat oven to 375°F. Prepare filling: Heat oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-low. Add onion and 1/2 tsp. salt; cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft, 8 to 10 minutes. Add sweet potatoes; cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender but not mushy, 8 to 10 minutes. Add apple and thyme; cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until mixture is just tender and apple is starting to turn golden, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

4. Bake crust until dry to the touch, 13 to 15 minutes. Remove from oven and top evenly with sweet-potato mixture. (Do not turn oven off.) 5. Whisk together eggs, milk, half-and-half, pepper, and remaining 1/2 tsp. salt in a large bowl. Fold in 1 cup of the Gruyère. Pour egg mixture evenly over sweet-potato mixture, and sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup Gruyère. Bake until quiche is turning golden and is just set in the center, 34 to 38 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes before cutting into 12 pieces. NUTRITION PER SERVING 510 calories; 16g protein; 33g fat (19g sat. fat); 38g carbs; 3g fiber; 6g sugar; 2mg iron; 284mg calcium; 581mg sodium

L I F E Ñ Fo o d

Mini Shepherd’s Pies Active time 1 hour Total time 2 hours 10 minutes Makes 6 servings

I N G R E DI E N T S 2 tsp. olive oil 11/2 lbs. ground beef (90% lean) 1 white onion, finely chopped 2 Tbs. all-purpose flour 1 tsp. kosher salt, divided 1 tsp. black pepper, divided 1 Tbs. tomato paste 21/2 cups lower-sodium beef broth 2 small carrots, chopped (1 cup) 1 tsp. fresh thyme leaves 1 dried bay leaf 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce 11/2 cups frozen peas (do not thaw) 2 lbs. Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 2-in. chunks 1/2 cup sour cream 2 Tbs. unsalted butter MAKE IT

1. Heat oil over medium-high in a large skillet. Add beef and onion; cook, stirring often, until beef is browned and onion is softened, 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in flour and 1/2 tsp. each salt and pepper. Add tomato paste; cook, stirring constantly, until incorporated, about 1 minute.

F O R S N O W - DAY D I N N E R S

Have these pies ready to go: Prepped and unbaked, they can be frozen for up to two weeks.

3. Preheat oven to 375°F. Place potatoes in a large pot; add water to cover. Bring to a boil over high. Reduce heat to medium; simmer until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain; return potatoes to pot. Add sour cream, butter, and remaining 1/2 tsp. each salt and pepper. Mash potatoes until they are smooth. 4. Remove bay leaf from beef mixture and discard. Divide beef mixture (about 1 cup each) among 6 ramekins or disposable pie pans (51/2 in. round). Top evenly with potatoes (1 rounded 1/2 cup per pie). 5. Place pies on a baking sheet. Bake until filling is bubbling and potatoes turn golden around edges, about 25 minutes. (If pies have been frozen, add 10 to 15 minutes of baking time.) Let pies cool 10 minutes before serving. NUTRITION PER SERVING 442 calories; 29g protein; 20g fat (9g sat. fat); 37g carbs; 7g fiber; 7g sugar; 4mg iron; 55mg calcium; 654mg sodium

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FOOD STYLING BY RISHON HANNERS. PROP STYLING BY CLAIRE SPOLLEN.

2. Stir broth, carrots, thyme, bay leaf, and Worcestershire sauce into beef mixture and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low; cook, stirring occasionally, until carrots are tender and cooking liquid thickens, about 30 minutes. Fold in peas; cook until peas are heated through, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat; set aside.

L I F E Ñ Fo o d

Ham & Cheese French Bread Pizzas Active time 20 minutes Total time 45 minutes Makes 8 servings

I N G R E DI E N T S For the bread: 1 loaf (about 16 in.) soft French or Italian bread (day-old preferred) For the star pizzas: 1/2 cup marinara sauce 2 slices ham, coarsely chopped 2 oz. mozzarella cheese, shredded (about 1/2 cup) 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, orange or a mix of several) Fresh basil sprigs (optional) For the snowman pizzas: 1/2 cup marinara sauce 2 slices ham, coarsely chopped 4 slices Muenster cheese Orange bell pepper (as needed) Capers, patted dry (as needed) Fresh basil sprigs (optional) MAKE IT

1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Cut bread in half horizontally. Cut each half crosswise on an angle into 4 pieces (8 total). Arrange bread, cut sides up, on a baking sheet. Bake in preheated oven until crisp, about 3 minutes. (Do not turn oven off.) 2. Prepare star pizzas: Spread 4 bread pieces with 2 Tbs. marinara sauce each. Top with ham and mozzarella. Trim and discard bellpepper top, bottom, inside ribs, and seeds. Lay bell pepper flat. Using a 3/4- to 11/2-in. star-shaped cookie cutter, cut shapes from pepper. Arrange stars on pizzas. Bake until cheese is bubbling and golden, 8 to 10 minutes. (Do not turn oven off.) Top with basil sprigs, if using.

F O R L A I D - B AC K LU N C H E S

Nostalgia for you (French bread pizza!), fun for them. This version is leveled up with a choice of bellpepper stars or Muenstercheese snowmen.

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3. Prepare snowman pizzas: Spread remaining 4 bread pieces with 2 Tbs. marinara sauce each. Top with ham. Bake for 8 minutes. (Do not turn oven off.) Using 3 round cookie cutters (1-in., 11/2-in., and 2-in.), cut out rounds from cheese slices (4 rounds per size). Arrange rounds on pizzas to look like snowman bodies. Bake until cheese starts to melt, about 11/2 minutes. 4. Trim and discard bell pepper top, bottom, inside ribs, and seeds. Lay bell pepper flat. Cut small, pointed strips like carrot noses for snowmen. Cut small rounds for buttons. Top each snowman with a “carrot” nose and 2 capers for eyes. Add capers or pepper pieces for buttons. Place a basil sprig, if using, on each snowman as a bow tie. NUTRITION PER SERVING 194 calories; 12g protein; 7g fat (4g sat. fat); 20g carbs; 2g fiber; 5g sugar; 2mg iron; 176mg calcium; 730mg sodium

2020

L I F E Ñ Fo o d

F O R A L L- DAY GRAZING

Everyone can get behind an addictive snack that’s a little salty and a little sweet.

6 Tbs. unsalted butter 3/4 cup whole milk, at room temperature 2 large eggs, lightly beaten For the filling: 1/4 cup packed brown sugar 1 Tbs. ground cinnamon 3 Tbs. unsalted butter, softened For the frosting and topping: 1/2 cup cream cheese, at room temperature 1/4 tsp. pure vanilla extract 1/8 tsp. kosher salt 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar, sifted, divided 1/4 tsp. peppermint extract (optional) 1/4 cup whole milk Natural red food coloring 1 to 2 candy canes (4 in. each), gently crushed, or 3 Tbs. crushed hard peppermint candies MAKE IT

1. Prepare dough: Stir together sugar, yeast, salt, baking soda, and 33/4 cups of the flour in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough-hook attachment.

Reindeer Mix Active time 10 minutes Total time 50 minutes Makes 12 servings

I N G R E DI E N T S 3 Tbs. unsalted butter 3 Tbs. light-brown sugar 11/2 tsp. finely chopped fresh rosemary 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon 1/2 tsp. kosher salt 2 cups unsalted mixed nuts (such as walnuts and almonds) 2 cups miniature pretzels 1 cup lightly sweetened cereal (such as Barbara’s Puffins) 1/2 cup unsweetened dried cranberries 1/2 cup yogurt-covered raisins MAKE IT

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook butter, brown sugar, rosemary, cinnamon, and salt in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly, until butter is melted and sugar is mostly dissolved, 2 to 3 minutes. Place nuts on a rimmed baking sheet; drizzle with half of the butter mixture and toss to coat. Spread in an even layer. 2. Bake nuts 7 minutes. Remove from oven. Add pretzels and

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remaining butter mixture to nuts; toss to coat, and return to oven. Bake for 3 minutes. Remove from oven. Let cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes. Transfer to a large bowl. 3. Add cereal, cranberries, and raisins to nut mixture; toss to combine. Store in an airtight container up to 1 week. NUTRITION PER SERVING 221 calories; 4g protein; 12g fat (3g sat. fat); 27g carbs; 3g fiber; 14g sugar; 1mg iron; 46mg calcium; 187mg sodium

F R O M PA G E 1 0 0

Candy Cane Cinnamon Rolls Active time 40 minutes Total time 10 hours 45 minutes, including 8 hours of refrigeration (or overnight) Makes 12 servings

I N G R E DI E N T S For the dough: 3 Tbs. granulated sugar 1 1/4-oz. envelope active dry yeast 1 tsp. kosher salt 1/4 tsp. baking soda 33/4 to 4 cups all-purpose flour, as needed, plus more for surface

2. Melt butter over low heat in a small saucepan. Remove from heat and add milk to pan. Add butter mixture and eggs to flour mixture; beat with stand mixer on medium speed until a shaggy dough forms, about 1 minute. Reduce mixer speed to low; beat until a smooth dough forms, about 5 minutes. If dough appears sticky, gradually beat in up to remaining 1/4 cup flour, 1 Tbs. at a time, until dough pulls away from bottom of bowl. 3. Place dough on a lightly floured work surface. Using your

hands, knead dough into a smooth ball, about 1 minute. Return dough to bowl; cover and let rise at room temperature until doubled in size, about 1 hour 30 minutes. 4. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside. Place dough on a lightly floured surface; roll into a 13-in. square. 5. Prepare filling: Stir brown sugar with cinnamon in a small bowl. Spread softened butter evenly over dough; sprinkle evenly with brown-sugar mixture. 6. Roll dough into a log; place log seam side down. Cut log in half crosswise using a chef’s knife. Slice each log half crosswise evenly into 6 rolls. Arrange 8 rolls on prepared baking sheet in the shape of a candy cane. Place remaining 4 rolls on the empty portion of the baking sheet. 7. Cover rolls with aluminum foil; refrigerate for at least 8 hours (overnight) or up to 2 days. 8. Preheat oven to 350°F. Remove rolls from refrigerator; let stand at room temperature while oven preheats. 9. Bake rolls, covered with foil, until puffed and firm but still pale, about 15 minutes. Remove foil; continue baking until lightly browned, 10 to 12 minutes. 10. Prepare frosting: Whisk cream cheese, vanilla, salt, and half (about 1/3 cup) of the confectioners’ sugar in a bowl. Gradually whisk in remaining confectioners’ sugar until just combined. Whisk in peppermint extract, if using. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Transfer half of the frosting to a small resealable plastic bag. Tint remaining frosting in bowl with red food coloring following package directions. Transfer tinted frosting to a separate small resealable plastic bag. 11. Move 8 rolls in cane shape to a platter and the extra 4 to a separate plate. Cut the tip off 1 corner of each resealable bag. Drizzle red and white frosting over rolls. Sprinkle with crushed-candy topping. NUTRITION PER SERVING 363 calories; 7g protein; 14g fat (8g sat. fat); 53g carbs; 2g fiber; 19g sugar; 2mg iron; 53mg calcium; 259mg sodium

ADVICE AS YOUR CHILD GROWS

Bop to the beat. 0–2 YEARS

HOW TO

Make the Most of Music by L O R I K A S E M I L L E R and KAREN CICERO

Choose tunes that promote language development.

Music can help your baby or toddler pick up on speech patterns. Focus on songs that have simple but repetitive lyrics. After a while, you might sing a familiar tune like “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” and leave off the last note in a line, encouraging your baby to chime in with a coo or your toddler to say the next word. While it’s okay to play classical music—especially if you’re a fan, too—it has no extra benefit compared with other musical styles.

Tap the soles of your baby’s feet to the music’s rhythm or clap their hands to help them realize the connection between what they hear and what they feel. When your baby can hold objects, offer a shaker. Let toddlers explore the sounds they can make with pots and pans. Use music to teach.

Songs are a great learning tool. Most 2-year-olds can’t memorize the alphabet by reading it, but if they hear “The ABC Song” repeatedly, they’ll learn the letters. Toddlers can spell (“B-I-N-G-O”), name body parts (“Head, shoulders, knees, and toes”), and speak new languages (“Frère Jacques”) through music. Sources: Lelia Emery, music therapist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital,in Columbus, Ohio; John Feierabend, Ph.D., professor emeritus of music education at the Hartt School of the University of Hartford, in Connecticut.

Songs can help establish routines. Find music for waking up, feeding time, playtime, and bedtime. It’s okay to look beyond songs made for kids. For example, you could start the day with Pinkfong’s “Good Morning,” but wouldn’t it be more fun to do it with The Beatles’ “Good Day Sunshine”? Sing along with the recording, because babies and toddlers love their parents’ voices most of all.

illustration by R O B I N R O S E N T H A L

Explain how to use the phone.

Keep a phone in a consistent place in your home so your preschooler will know exactly where to find it. If your cell phone needs to be unlocked, make sure your code is simple. Figure out the easiest way to call 911 on your phone (many brands have an emergency button) and teach your child how to do it. Hang a visual stepby-step guide at eye level near the phone to remind your child what to do. Help them recall important info.

3–4 YEARS

HOW TO

Turn to music to ease transitions.

even EMTs. But there’s one community helper they’re likely not yet familiar with: the 911 dispatcher. Kids as young as 3 have called 911, saving a parent or another caregiver. Tell your child that 911 is a special phone number to call when there’s an emergency. Give examples of when they’d need to call 911, such as if there’s a fire or if a family member is sick and needs help right away.

Teach Your Child to Call 911

Ideally, your child should know their home phone number and address and each family member’s first and last names. Singing the information will help it stick in their head. Families can create an emergency profile at smart911.com, which allows emergency dispatchers in more than 500 locations to see your

by A D R I E N N E FA R R

Get More Age-Specific Tips Simply hover your phone’s camera over the smart code to subscribe to our daily newsletter.

Define an emergency.

Your child probably knows about firefighters, police officers, and maybe

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A G E S + S TA G E S

exact address, the layout of your home, and existing medical conditions, if you choose to include that information. Role-play an emergency.

You can pretend to need help and ask your child to call 911 using a toy phone. The Center for Childhood Safety offers a free app, called Kids’ Practice 911 Dialer, which allows kids to practice making “the call” and explaining what the emergency is without accessing a live dispatcher. Go over what to say on the call. Practicing and pretending will better prepare your child to handle a real emergency. Books like Impatient Pamela Calls 9-1-1, by Mary Koski, can also familiarize your child with the process. Sources: Kelley Abrams, Ph.D., a developmental psychologist for Cognoa, in Palo Alto, California; Lorraine Peters, operations director of Our Kids Place, in Hewlett, New York.

when you lose. You can say, “I understand you’re disappointed you didn’t win,” or “I understand why you’re upset.” Suggest they take a deep breath or count to ten to cope with feelings that come with defeat. Show kids that you’re a good sport.

Likewise, when you or your favorite team loses a game, model good sportsmanship. For instance, say, “Wow, what a great game! I’m sad that I lost, but I had so much fun playing!” When your child gracefully accepts a loss, praise their reaction. Give them more experience.

Incorporate cooperative board games or activities. Whether your whole crew works together to find the buried treasure or beat the clock, you’ll build your kid’s confidence and help them understand that games are meant to be fun.

5–6 YEARS

Make Losing Easier by TA R A L U S T B E R G

7+ YE ARS

HOW TO

Introduce Typing by TA M E K I A R E E C E

Explain the game in advance.

Losing helps teach kids life skills like empathy, frustration, tolerance, cooperation, and rule following. But defeat is hard to accept, especially at this age. Bring up the topic before your child steps foot on a field or sits down to play a board game. Go over the rules, encourage them to talk about how they might feel if they win or lose, and discuss how you or someone else might feel too. If your kid has an idea of what to expect, the big post-game emotions won’t catch them off guard. Validate their feelings.

Even if your child’s reaction to a loss seems out of proportion (a meltdown when a sib beats them at Chutes and Ladders), acknowledge that it takes practice to maintain a positive attitude

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Look at how your child sits at the computer. Their feet should be flat on the floor (or on a footrest if they’re too short) with their shoulders relaxed, arms hanging normally at the side, and elbows close to their body and bent between 90 and 120 degrees. The top of the computer screen should be across from their eyes. When your kid’s core is supported, it allows their limbs to move with more control and precision. Break the hunt-and-peck habit.

Sources: Emily Edlynn, Ph.D., founder of The Art and Science of Mom; Amber Ufford, Ph.D., PCIT program director at Cognitive and Behavioral Consultants, LLP, in White Plains, New York.

HOW TO

Focus on posture.

Practice on a real keyboard.

If you’ve ever watched your kid type in the chat box during a Zoom school lesson, you don’t need to be convinced that better keyboard skills would ease some of their digital-learning frustrations. While typing isn’t usually taught until fourth grade (because that’s when kids have the necessary hand-eye motor coordination and finger span), there are steps you can take earlier to set up your child for success. A physical keyboard offers the tactile input kids need to learn. They can feel the shape of keys, the space between them, and the force needed to push each down, all of which help new typists understand hand placement.

Keyboard hand placement isn’t intuitive. Rather than focusing on speed, nail down their hand placement. Explain that their fingers should hover over the home-row keys at all times—A, S, D, F on the left and J, K, L, ; (semicolon) on the right. When they type, their finger should lightly tap the key, bounce off, and return to the home-row key. Practice a few minutes a day. Off-screen, have them work on memory tasks like filling in a blank keyboard worksheet with the correct letter placement. Get in real practice.

Ask your kid to type out the grocery list or write an email for you. It will take longer than if you do it yourself, but be patient and don’t rush them. When they’re done, praise them and thank them for helping you. You can also encourage your kid to type stories to print out and illustrate themselves. Sources: Austin Butler, founder and president of Teaching.com and Typing.com; Sarah Selznick, an occupational therapist and owner of Sensory Explorers, LLC, in Harrisonburg, Virginia.

Send Us Your Kid Quotes! BEST OF GIGGLES PROMOTION, PAGE 112 NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO PARTICIPATE.

Send your funny story to kidquotes@ parents.com. Include your full mailing address, phone number, and your eligible child’s name and date of birth. Subject to Terms and Conditions at parents.com/gigglespromotion. Open to legal residents of the 50 United States and the District of Columbia, 21 years or older. One submission per person per email address per day. Void where prohibited. Sponsor: Meredith Corporation, 225 Liberty St., New York, NY 10281.

My son recently asked me, “Does God really know everything? Like, more than Siri?” Marlowe, 5

Nicole Ikeda Haleiwa, HI

Ellie, 6

Tyler, 5

I told my son that we were going to kill two birds with one stone. He responded, “Why are you going to kill two birds?” Wendy Whirlow Palm Harbor, FL

Hailey, 4

After my daughter lost her first tooth, she said, “I hope it’s not my sweet tooth!”

We were driving through some heavy rain when my son, Zach, 4, called out, “It’s raining cats and dogs!” A few minutes later the rain turned to a light drizzle and Ellie said, “Now it’s just raining kittens and puppies.”

I told my daughter how proud she made me by participating in her virtual classes, since I was afraid to talk in class when I was her age. She responded, “Oh, so you just typed in the chat?” Cate Brandon Lakewood, OH

Jennifer Wolf Wauwatosa, WI

Jenni Farrow Cincinnati, OH

Gabby, 3

My daughter asked why the muffins we were baking weren’t bigger. I explained that these were called mini muffins. She responded, “What about Mickey muffins?”

Got a Funny Kid Quote to Share?

Simply hover your phone’s camera over the smart code for a chance to be featured. Or email kidquotes@parents.com. See the abbreviated terms on page 110.

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Felicia Coughlin Burton, MI

2020

ILLUSTRATIONS BY ELISE GRAVEL. PARENTS (ISSN 1083-6373); December 2020, Vol. 95, No. 12, is published monthly by Meredith Corporation, 1716 Locust Street, Des Moines, IA 50309-3023. Periodicals postage paid at Des Moines, IA, and at additional mailing offices. Subscription prices, $15.98 per year in the U.S.; $27.00 (U.S. dollars) in Canada; $49.00 (U.S. dollars) overseas. POSTMASTER: Send all UAA to CFS. (See DMM 507.1.5.2); NON-POSTAL AND MILITARY FACILITIES: Send address corrections to Parents, P.O. Box 37508, Boone, IA 50037-0508. In Canada: mailed under Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement No. 40069223; Canadian BN 12348 2887 RT. © Meredith Corporation 2020. All rights reserved. Your bank may provide updates to the card information we have on file. You may opt out of this service at any time. Printed in the U.S.A.

Hanalei, 4