8 Polish Easter Traditions and Customs for Kids

8 Polish Easter Traditions and Customs for Kids

When we had the opportunity to explore Poland and Polish culture before, I knew that I had to expand on it somehow. I also knew that it was only the beginning when it came to studying world culture and geography. My 3 year old showed a great interest in that. So it would only be a matter of time before we did more exploration. With Easter coming up, we’re exploring Polish Easter traditions and customs. Do the Polish Celebrate Easter? Easter observances in Poland actually begin on Ash Wednesday, when pussywillows called in Polish “bazie” or “kotki” are cut and placed in the water. These pussywillow twigs are used later on Palm Sunday as “palms” to be blessed in the church, because palms are not…

Sensory Friendly Valentine’s Day Activities for Autistic Kids

Sensory Friendly Valentine’s Day Activities for Autistic Kids

When it comes to planning holiday parties or even everyday activities for autistic kids, there’s a tendency to look for sensory friendly activities. This holds true when you’re planning a sensory friendly birthday party or just looking for an afterschool or school break activity. I want to start sharing some of my favorites with you and we’ll begin with sensory friendly Valentine’s Day activities. What is a sensory friendly activity? So you may be wondering just what makes a sensory friendly activity sensory friendly. Well, while I can’t say for certain; I look for the following qualities. It needs to be an activity that involves the senses. Sight Touch Taste (sometimes!) Smell Sound For autistic kids, some sensory activities may be preferred over others. For example, a sensory…

How to Plan an Easter Egg Hunt for Multiple Age Groups

How to Plan an Easter Egg Hunt for Multiple Age Groups

One of the most memorable parts of Easter, for me, was having an Easter egg hunt. Usually that meant having one at my grandmother’s backyard and one year I went to a larger Easter egg hunt when we were visiting family in Los Angeles. I still remember my younger cousin finding a golden egg, and being quite proud of herself. Squeaker does not quite understand the concept of Easter egg hunting though we will likely dye eggs this year. Next year, however, we will probably do an Easter egg hunt at home or participate in one at church. Here are some tips and advice for how to plan an Easter egg hunt for different age groups. Hiding Easter eggs is something families and many communities…

Budget Friendly 4th of July Party Ideas

Budget Friendly 4th of July Party Ideas

Celebrating holidays does not mean that you have to break the bank. Especially for families who are on a budget or are trying to trim down their expenses, there’s no need to go all out for a holiday just because it’s a holiday. We’re going to start sharing more budget friendly party ideas and we’re going to start with budget friendly 4th of July party ideas. I also considered putting this under budget friendly holiday celebrations, so take it as you will- I think either or works, you know? How to Plan a Budget Friendly Party for the 4th of July Budget Friendly Decorating Ideas for the 4th of July Red, white and blue decorations and patriotic decorations come out before Memorial Day, so you…

Budget Friendly Gift Ideas for Mom

Budget Friendly Gift Ideas for Mom

If you’re strapped for cash this year or maybe you’re trying to save money to avoid a financial pitfall, or maybe you just can’t afford to go all out… here are some budget friendly gift ideas for mom. Chances are that she already knows, or should know, how much you appreciate her but if you feel the need to show her as well, we’ve got a few ideas to get you started. Or, maybe you’d like to do something for a group of ladies (women in nursing homes who may not receive visitors, nurses, teachers, etc.) but want to show your appreciation without breaking the bank. 5 Budget Friendly Gift Ideas for Moms 1) Second Hand or Vintage Gifts On first thought, buying your mom…

Budget Friendly Easter Ideas for Kids

Budget Friendly Easter Ideas for Kids

Holiday celebrations do not have to break your bank! Here are some budget friendly Easter ideas for kids of all ages. Squeaker does not yet quite understand Easter egg hunts or Easter baskets and I’m thankful for that. I want to incorporate both secular and Christian traditions into our Easter celebration so next year, when she’s hopefully ready for it, we’ll do more for the Lenten season and Holy Week. This year, however, we are still planning some Easter traditions- such as baskets for the boys. And, as with many things around here, we work on a budget. So if your family is like ours and being mindful of money; here are a few budget friendly Easter ideas for kids. Simple Budget Friendly Easter Ideas for Kids…