Toddler Letters – “M” is for “Monster”

 

Supplies Needed:

  • Colored Craft Paper
  • Letter “M” Cutout
  • Elmer’s Glue
  • Scissors
  • Goggly Eyes
  • Pipe Cleaners
  • Pom Poms
  • Feathers
  • Markers

Set Up:

I cut out our “M” ahead of time, then we sat down at the craft table and covered our M’s in a small layer of glue.  Then we went wild gluing whatever we wanted to our letter. When my son was finished layering craft supplies on his M I did another small layer of glue to make sure everything would stay down, then we let them dry before gluing them to our full sheet of paper.

Tracing Letters:

Have you made this craft?  What was your experience like and do you have an suggestions to make it better?  I’d love to hear about them in the comments section below.

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Family Friendly Boston – What to Know About Free Hatch Shell Summer Movies (With List of 2016 Movies)

Friday nights all summer long you can head over to the Hatch Shell on the Esplanade to check out a free movie on the green.  The first time we went we came equipped with blankets and snacks. We quickly realized that we had no need to bring our own snacks because there were vendors lining the green handing out all kinds of sample snacks.  We ended up getting some free ice cream bars, mini chocolates, popcorn, flavored water, mini salad with a fork, and more.

While waiting for the movie to start there is also great pre-movie entertainment.  When we went there was an announcer standing near the Hatch Shell playing games with the crowd and giving away random things like T-shirts for prizes.

Then the movie started and we settled in to enjoy our night.

Movie Line Up 2016

June, 2016 
Friday June 24, Sunset (8:25 pm) – “Mininons”

 July, 2016 
 Friday July 15, Sunset (8:19 pm) – “Cinderella (2015)”
 Friday July 22, Sunset (8:13 pm) – “Inside Out (2015)”
 Friday July 29, Sunset (8:06 pm) – “Star Wars: The Force Awakens”

 August 2016 
 Friday August 5, Sunset (7:58 pm) – “The Good Dinosaur”
 Friday August 12, Sunset (7:48 pm) -“Jurassic World”
 Friday August 19, Sunset (7:38 pm) – “UP”
 Friday August 26, Sunset (7:26 pm) -“Ant-Man”

Things to Note:

1) Prices
Free, come enjoy this awesome event every Friday night all summer long.

2) Kid Friendliness
Totally kid friendly.  Lots of space to run around and all the movies are kid friendly films, mostly animated but a few that aren’t and are just family friendly.

3) Stroller Friendliness
Yes, stroller friendly.  Bring a stroller, bring a blanket, maybe even bring lawn chairs if you can swing it.

4) Volume
We were sitting not super close to the front, probably in the first third of the field and the movie was LOUD.  Super loud for our then infant son.  When picking your sitting location check out where the speakers are and consider moving away from them, I promise you will be able to hear the movie from any place on that field.

5) Getting There
There is limited parking near the Esplanade, but you would be much better off taking the “T”.  It’s about a five minute walk from the Red Line – MGH station.

Summary and Rating ★★★★★

Five Stars.  We loved this activity, it was one we felt like we could go to with our young son to see a movie and get out without disturbing others and as he’s gotten older it’s only gotten better.  He loves it and we love it making it a really fun summer outing.  Plus, how can you complain about free? Especially when a free movie also comes with lots of free snacks.

Have you been here before?  If so I’d love to know more about your experience and any tips or tricks you have in the comments section below. 

Hatch Memorial Shell
47 David G Mugar Way
Boston, MA 02108

Phone: (617) 626-1250
Website: http://www.hatchshell.com/ 

Preschool A-Z – 190 Objects That Start with the Letter “L”

A group of my friends started doing something we are calling Toddler Time and each week we choose a letter to focus on.  I realized that finding objects that start with the letter of the week can be a challenge and I thought it might be helpful to have a long list of “L” letter objects them on hand.  If I’ve missed something drop me a note in the comments, I would be thrilled to add even more letter “L” objects.
  1. Lab Coat: A white, knee-length coat worn by scientists or medical professionals for protection and identification.
  2. Label: A piece of paper, fabric, or other material affixed to an item to provide information or identification.
  3. Labrador: A breed of retriever dog known for its friendly and gentle nature.
  4. Laburnum Tree: A type of flowering tree with bright yellow blossoms.
  5. Labyrinth: A complex, maze-like structure or design.
  6. Lace: A delicate fabric made of interlaced threads, often used in decorative or clothing purposes.
  7. Lace Trim: Decorative lace attached to the edges of fabric or clothing items.
  8. Lacquer: A protective coating applied to surfaces to give them a glossy or shiny finish.
  9. Lactation Pad: A pad worn by breastfeeding mothers to absorb leaking breast milk.
  10. Lactose: A sugar present in milk and dairy products.
  11. Lactose-Free Milk: Milk that has had the lactose removed or broken down, making it suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance.
  12. Ladder: A device consisting of a series of rungs or steps used for climbing or descending.
  13. Ladle: A large spoon with a long handle, used for serving soups or other liquids.
  14. Ladle Rest: A small resting stand or holder specifically designed for ladles to be placed on during cooking or serving.
  15. Lady: A term used to address or refer to a woman.
  16. Ladybug: A small, brightly colored beetle often considered a symbol of good luck.
  17. Lager: A type of beer that is typically light in color and flavor.
  18. Lake: A large body of water surrounded by land.
  19. Lamb: A young sheep, typically less than one year old.
  20. Lamb Shank: A cut of meat from the lower leg of a lamb or sheep.
  21. Lamination: The process of applying a thin layer of plastic or other material to a surface for protection or enhancement.
  22. Lamination Machine: A device used to heat and seal a layer of plastic onto paper or other documents.
  23. Lamp: A device that produces light, typically consisting of a bulb or LED and a shade or enclosure.
  24. Lampshade: A cover or shade that fits over a lamp to diffuse or direct the light.
  25. Lampshade Tassel: A decorative tassel often attached to the bottom edge of a lampshade.
  26. Lance: A long, pointed weapon or tool used for thrusting or piercing.
  27. Land: The solid part of the Earth’s surface that is not covered by water.
  28. Land Rover: A brand of luxury SUV known for its off-road capabilities.
  29. Landline Phone: A telephone that is connected to a physical copper wire or fiber optic cable network.
  30. Landmark: A prominent or recognizable feature in a landscape or cityscape that serves as a point of reference or interest.
  31. Lane: A narrow road or pathway, usually designated for a specific type of traffic or direction.
  32. Lanolin: A waxy substance obtained from sheep’s wool, commonly used in moisturizers and cosmetics.
  33. Lanolin Cream: A skincare product that contains lanolin, known for its moisturizing properties.
  34. Lantern: A portable light source consisting of a lamp enclosed within a protective case or housing.
  35. Lanyard: A cord or strap worn around the neck or wrist, typically used to hold keys, ID badges, or small items.
  36. Lapel: The part of a garment, such as a jacket or blazer, that is folded back on either side of the front opening.
  37. Lapel Pin: A small decorative pin worn on the lapel of a jacket or coat.
  38. Laptop: A portable computer that is designed to be used on a person’s lap.
  39. Laptop Charger: A device used to provide power and charge a laptop’s battery.
  40. Lard: Rendered or clarified pork fat that is used in cooking or baking.
  41. Largemouth Bass: A species of freshwater fish known for its large mouth and aggressive predatory behavior.
  42. Lark: A small songbird known for its melodious song.
  43. Larkspur Blossom: A tall flowering plant with spikes of colorful, spurred blossoms.
  44. Lasagna: An Italian dish made of stacked layers of pasta, meat, cheese, and sauce.
  45. Laser: An intensely focused beam of light that can be used for various purposes, such as cutting, welding, or medical procedures.
  46. Laser Pointer: A handheld device that emits a focused beam of laser light used for pointing or highlighting objects.
  47. Latch: A fastening device that secures a door or gate by fitting into a catch or slot.
  48. Lattice: A framework or structure made of intersecting strips or bars.
  49. Laundry Detergent: A cleaning agent specifically designed for washing clothes and removing dirt and stains.
  50. Lavender Sachet: A small bag filled with dried lavender flowers, used to scent drawers or clothes.
  51. Lawn: An area of mowed and cultivated grass in a yard or garden.
  52. Lawn Chair: A lightweight chair designed for outdoor use, typically made of metal or plastic.
  53. Lawn Fertilizer: A substance containing nutrients that is applied to lawns to promote healthy growth.
  54. Lawn Sprinkler: A device used to water lawns by spraying water over a large area.
  55. Lawnmower: A machine with rotating blades used to cut and trim grass in lawns.
  56. Layer (Layer Cake): A single portion or level of a multi-layered cake, typically separated by a layer of frosting or filling.
  57. Lead Pencil: A pencil filled with graphite, allowing for smooth writing or drawing.
  58. Leaf: The flattened, typically green, structure of a plant, usually attached to a stem, branch, or tree.
  59. Leaf Bug: An insect that resembles a leaf, often having the ability to camouflage itself.
  60. Leaf Rake: A garden tool with a wide, fan-shaped head used for gathering leaves or other debris.
  61. Leafy Green: A plant with leaves that are edible and commonly used as vegetables, such as spinach or lettuce.
  62. Leash: A strap or chain attached to the collar or harness of an animal to keep it restrained.
  63. Leash Holder: An object used to hold and organize leashes, typically mounted on a wall.
  64. Leather Belt: A belt made from the tanned hide of an animal, commonly used to secure clothing.
  65. Leather Gloves: Gloves made from leather, often used to protect the hands and provide warmth.
  66. Leather Jacket: A jacket made from leather, typically worn for protection or fashion purposes.
  67. Leek: A vegetable with a long, slender white bulb and green, leafy stalks, often used in cooking.
  68. Left Hand: The hand positioned to the left side of the body, usually corresponding with the non-dominant hand.
  69. Lego: A brand of interlocking plastic building blocks used for creating structures and objects.
  70. Legs: The limbs used for support and locomotion, typically found in animals and some insects.
  71. Lemming: A small, rodent-like mammal known for its mass migrations and population fluctuations.
  72. Lemon: A yellow citrus fruit known for its sour taste, often used in cooking or as a flavoring.
  73. Lemon Grass: A tropical plant with long, grass-like leaves, commonly used in cooking or to make herbal tea.
  74. Lemon Juice: The juice extracted from lemons, often used as a condiment or ingredient in various recipes.
  75. Lemon Meringue Pie: A dessert pie consisting of lemon custard filling topped with fluffy meringue.
  76. Lemon Squeezer: A tool used to extract juice from lemons or other citrus fruits.
  77. Lemon Twist: A thin strip of lemon peel used as a garnish for drinks or dishes.
  78. Lemonade: A refreshing beverage made from lemon juice, water, and sweetener.
  79. Lemonade Stand: A small, temporary roadside stand where lemonade is sold, often by children.
  80. Lemongrass Candle: A scented candle made with lemongrass oil, known for its calming and refreshing aroma.
  81. Lemur: A primate native to Madagascar, known for its large, round eyes and unique behaviors.
  82. Lens: A curved or flat piece of glass or other transparent material used to focus light and form images.
  83. Lentils: Edible legumes that come in various colors and are used in cooking as a source of protein and fiber.
  84. Leopard: A large, spotted cat native to Africa and parts of Asia, known for its agility and hunting prowess.
  85. Leopard Gecko: A small, nocturnal lizard with leopard-like spots, commonly kept as a pet.
  86. Leotard Bag: A bag used to store or transport leotards, typically used in dance or gymnastics.
  87. Leotards: Tight-fitting, one-piece garments worn by dancers, gymnasts, or acrobats.
  88. Leprechaun: A mischievous mythical creature from Irish folklore, often depicted as a small, bearded man in green clothing.
  89. Letters: Written or printed characters used to represent sounds or convey messages in written communication.
  90. Lettuce: A leafy green vegetable commonly used in salads or as a sandwich filling.
  91. Level: A tool or device used to determine if a surface is horizontal or vertical.
  92. Lever: A rigid bar that pivots around a fixed point and is used to transmit force, such as opening a door or lifting a weight.
  93. Library: A place where books, magazines, and other materials are kept for reading, viewing, or study.
  94. Library Book: A book that is owned by a library and can be borrowed by its members.
  95. Lichen: A composite organism made up of a fungus and an alga or cyanobacterium that grows on rocks, trees, and other surfaces.
  96. Licorice: A sweet root that is used to flavor candy, tobacco, and other products.
  97. Licorice Rope: A type of candy made from licorice that is shaped like a rope.
  98. Lid: A removable or hinged cover for the top of a container.
  99. Lifeboat: A small boat carried on a ship for use in an emergency.
  100. Lifebuoy: A buoyant device used to support a person in water.
  101. Lifesaver: A buoyant ring or similar device used to rescue a person from drowning.
  102. Lift: A machine or device used for raising and lowering people or goods to different levels.
  103. Liger: A hybrid offspring of a male lion and a female tiger.
  104. Light: The natural agent that stimulates sight and makes things visible.
  105. Light Bulb: A glass bulb containing a wire filament that emits light when heated by an electric current.
  106. Lighter: A device used to create a flame for lighting cigarettes, candles, or fires.
  107. Lighthouse: A tower or other structure equipped with a powerful light used as a navigational aid for ships at sea.
  108. Lighthouse Keeper: A person responsible for operating and maintaining a lighthouse.
  109. Lighthouse Painting: A painting that depicts a lighthouse.
  110. Lilac: A shrub or small tree with fragrant purple or white flowers.
  111. Lilting Melody: A cheerful and lively tune.
  112. Lily: A bulbous plant with large trumpet-shaped flowers.
  113. Lily Flower: The flower of a lily plant.
  114. Lily Pad: A floating leaf of a water lily.
  115. Lima Bean: A type of bean that is commonly used in cooking.
  116. Limb: An arm or leg of a person or animal.
  117. Limber: Flexible and supple.
  118. Lime: A citrus fruit with green skin and acidic juice.
  119. Lime Juice: The juice of a lime fruit.
  120. Limestone Rock: A sedimentary rock composed mainly of calcium carbonate.
  121. Limousine: A large luxury car, typically driven by a chauffeur.
  122. Line: A long, narrow mark or band.
  123. Linen: A fabric made from flax fibers.
  124. Lingerie: Women’s underwear and nightclothes.
  125. Lingerie Bag: A bag used for washing delicate clothing items such as lingerie.
  126. Linguine: A type of pasta that is similar to spaghetti but flattened.
  127. Liniment: A liquid or lotion used to relieve pain or stiffness in muscles.
  128. Link: A relationship between two things or situations.
  129. Linseed Cake: A byproduct of linseed oil production that is used as animal feed.
  130. Linseed Oil: A yellowish oil obtained from the seeds of the flax plant, used in making paint and varnish.
  131. Lint: Fluff or fibers that accumulate on clothing or in pockets.
  132. Lint Roller: A device used to remove lint from clothing.
  133. Lion: A large carnivorous feline animal with a mane and a roar.
  134. Lip Balm: A waxy substance applied to the lips to prevent chapping.
  135. Lips: The fleshy outer edges of the mouth.
  136. Lipstick: A cosmetic product used to color the lips.
  137. Liquid: A substance that flows freely but is of constant volume.
  138. Litchi Nut: The fruit of a tropical tree with a rough reddish-brown shell and a sweet white edible flesh.
  139. Litter: Waste material that is left lying around in public places.
  140. Litter Scoop: A tool used to clean cat litter boxes.
  141. Little Dipper (Star Constellation): A constellation in the northern sky that is also known as Ursa Minor.
  142. Liver: A large organ in the body that produces bile and helps to detoxify the blood.
  143. Liverwurst: A type of sausage made from liver and other meats.
  144. Lizard: A reptile with a long body, four short legs, a long tail, and thick skin.
  145. Llama: A South American animal with a long neck and long hair, often kept for its meat, milk, or fur and to carry heavy loads.
  146. Loaf: A shaped or molded mass of bread.
  147. Lobe (earlobe): The soft round part at the bottom of the ear.
  148. Lobelia: A plant with brightly colored flowers that is often grown in gardens.
  149. Lobster: A large marine crustacean with a hard shell, a pair of large claws, and a long tail.
  150. Lobster Bib: A bib worn to protect clothing while eating lobster.
  151. Lobster Trap: A trap used to catch lobsters.
  152. Loch Ness Monster: A legendary creature said to inhabit Loch Ness in Scotland.
  153. Lock: A mechanism for keeping a door, lid, etc., fastened, typically operated by a key.
  154. Locket: A small ornamental case, typically made of gold or silver, worn around the neck on a chain and used to hold things of sentimental value, such as a photograph or lock of hair.
  155. Log: A length of a tree trunk or a large piece of timber.
  156. Log Cabin: A small house made from logs.
  157. Logo: A symbol or other design adopted by an organization to identify its products, uniform, vehicles, etc.
  158. Lollipop: A piece of hard candy on the end of a stick.
  159. Lollipop Stick: A stick used to hold a lollipop.
  160. Long Sleeved Shirt: A shirt with long sleeves.
  161. Longan Fruit: A small, sweet fruit with a thin, brownish-red shell and a white, juicy pulp.
  162. Longboard: A type of skateboard that is longer and wider than a traditional skateboard.
  163. Loofah: A fibrous sponge-like product made from the dried fruit of a tropical vine, used for washing the body or scrubbing dishes.
  164. Loom: A machine for weaving fabric.
  165. Loop: A shape produced by a curve that bends around and crosses itself.
  166. Loose Leaf Tea: Tea that is not brewed in a tea bag.
  167. Loquat Tree: A tree that produces small, yellow or orange fruit with a sweet, tangy flavor.
  168. Lotion: A liquid or cream applied to the skin to soothe or protect it.
  169. Lotion Bottle: A bottle used to store lotion.
  170. Lottery Ticket: A ticket purchased for a chance to win a prize in a lottery.
  171. Lotus Flower: A large, showy flower that grows in water.
  172. Lounge Chair: A comfortable chair for relaxing.
  173. Loupe: A small magnifying glass used by jewelers and watchmakers.
  174. Louvre Artwork: A piece of artwork displayed in the Louvre Museum in Paris.
  175. Louvres: A series of angled slats or flat strips of wood or glass set in a frame, used as a screen or to admit air and light while excluding rain and direct sunshine.
  176. Love: A strong feeling of affection.
  177. Lovebird: A small, colorful parrot often kept as a pet.
  178. Lug Nut: A nut used to secure a wheel to a vehicle.
  179. Luggage: Suitcases, bags, and other containers used to hold personal belongings while traveling.
  180. Luggage Rack: A rack on top of a vehicle used to hold luggage.
  181. Luminaria: A small paper lantern used to decorate homes and streets during the holiday season.
  182. Lunch: A meal eaten in the middle of the day.
  183. Lunch box: A container used to carry food for lunch.
  184. Lungs: The two organs in the chest that are responsible for breathing.
  185. Lure: An object or substance used to attract fish or other animals so they can be caught.
  186. Luster: A gentle sheen or soft glow, especially that of a partly reflective surface.
  187. Lute: A stringed musical instrument with a long neck and a rounded body.
  188. Lute Player: A person who plays the lute.
  189. Lutein: A yellow pigment found in many fruits and vegetables that is important for eye health.
  190. Lychee: A small, sweet fruit with a rough, red shell and a white, juicy pulp.
  191. Lychee Tree: A tree that produces lychee fruit.
  192. Lycra Shorts: Tight-fitting shorts made from stretchy material, usually a mix of Lycra and nylon, that are usually worn by cyclist and runners.
  193. Lynx: Any of several wildcats with relatively long legs, a short stubby tail, mottled coat, and usually tufted ears that are thought to comprise a distinct genus (Lynx) of the cat family or to be part of a genus (Felis) that includes the domestic cat and cougar.

Can you think of any other letter “L” words?  If so please comment and let me know, I’d love to get them added to the list.

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Review – Green Toys, Made From Recycled Material, Tools Chest

In elementary school a big blue garbage can marked with a circle of arrows showed up at my parents house. We talked about the importance of recycling and doing your part to reduce, reuse, and recycle. While I’ve been a recycler for as long as I can remember (sometimes to a chagrin of my husband who doesn’t want to waste time cleaning out a peanut butter jar if we are essentially just going to throw away) I started caring about it so much more since my kids came along.
I suspect many of us get that way. We’ll do what’s right because we’re supposed to, but we don’t really think or care about the broader picture until we’ve got someone who is really going to benefit or suffer from our actions. Anyway, there is my pitch for recycling. It’s a good thing, and you should do it.
So, after the hundreds of cans and bottles I’ve cleaned out and sent off I was very pleased to be able to see this recycled stuff come full circle (in a more interesting way that a paper box) with a company called Green Toys.

A company that takes recycled stuff and turns it into toys.  How fun is that, and what a great way to motivate your own kids to recycle.  I’m thinking a toddler would happily make sure a milk carton made it into the recycling if they knew it could become a tool set. Then I found exactly that.  A tool set made from recycled milk cartons made by a company called Green Toys. 

They take recycled material and refashion it into toys! I think it’s a great idea and a perfect way to encourage kids to recycle.  “If you put this milk carton in the recycling it can become a toy car,” seem pretty persuasive to me.   
Green Toys has some fun toys on their website that include play food, trucks, tools sets, play flowers, outside games and more. All of them are made out of 100% recycled material, and even the cartons holding the products are 100% recycled and recyclable. I love it! Plus all the products are from stuff that has been recycled and refashioned in the USA, saving on extra fuel emissions and what not. Bottom line, this is a fun way to play and a fun way to help save the earth.
Okay, so I was really excited to find a brand of toys that I could feel so great about promoting but I was curious about what the actual toys were like.
First they were packaged in a cardboard box (recycled of course) and there were no twisty ties or plastic bits to claw my way through, also as soon as I had my toys removed I could drop all the packaging right back into the recycle.

The tool set itself was great. The pieces have a rough texture like a milk carton, but it’s clear that that is by design. The toys were solid and well made. My son had a blast trying to screw the pieces into the side of the tool chest and hauling the whole thing around the house. It was the perfect size for his little hands and while the tools were solid they weren’t so heavy that I was afraid of him causing real damage by hammering things other than the provided nails. He probably spent 15 putting both the screws, nails and screw drivers in the little holes around the tool chest, and he had a great time playing with it.

Green Toys Pros: 

  • Environmentally Friendly
  • Solid and Well Built 
  • Hassle Free Packaging 
  • Multiple Color Options (the tool chest, dump trucks and trains also come in pink)


Green Toy Cons:

  • Fairly Simplistic Toys
  • Not a Huge Variety 
  • Fairly Expensive (the tool chest will run you a cool $28)

There are so many toys are made out of plastic these days, if you want to have plastic toys you feel good about check out Green Toys.

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What are some of the best ways you’ve tried to encourage your children to recycle? I’d love to hear about it in the comments section.

Touring Boston – Free Fun Fridays – Tons of Great, Budget Friendly, Ideas to Tour Boston During the Summer

Every year during the summer Boston does this thing called “Free Fun Fridays.” Each week they have a handful of museums and historic type things open for free for the day and it changes every week all summer long.  This is the perfect chance to explore some of the museums and attractions that your interested in that might otherwise seem too expensive.

We were lucky enough to go on Freedom Trail day.   When my husband and I came to visit Boston before moving we had a brief exposure to the historic waking tours while we were touring one of the cemeteries. The actor leading the group was telling some really funny stories and we were intrigued, but didn’t end up going on a full tour ourselves.

Now that it was free we made the extra effort to check it out and we loved it!  If you come to Boston I would highly recommend the historic tour.

I had to laugh at human nature when we were bought to the historic state house.  We were told that about 50 years ago the city was going to tear down the building because they needed to widen the road.  A bunch of people got together to try to raise money to save the building but in the ended didn’t raise enough so the city was going to demolish it.  However, they were approached by some county in Illinois that was all for the widening of the road, but wanted to buy the state house and reassemble it brick by brick in Illinois.  To which the city of Boston immediately replied with something along the lines of “You can’t have our historic state house!  This is Boston history!” and the state house still stands in the middle of the city.

In any case Free Fun Fridays are everything the name suggests and you should really make an effort to check out some of the events.

Have you been here before?  If so I’d love to know more about your experience and any tips or tricks you have in the comments section below. 

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