This is a new monthly series which we will update each year as the particular month arrives. Much of each post will be good from year to year, and because parenting is often challenging, we want to present tools and strategies that might be helpful, in this case for parenting in April.
Here are things that we’re learning and loving in the month of April! We will talk about a few things that we are learning and loving in our lives right now. This may include recipes, books, movies and tips for life in the middle of the sandwich, etc.
Here are some ideas for parenting in April, and be sure to check out the best deals to look for in April down below. (see our March post here)
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Parenting in April: Learning
Do you love Ikea’s meatballs? They released the recipe for people back during quarantine. Here is the recipe!
I love the story about these couch bikes! And, the purpose is wonderful as well.
Parenting in April: Books to read
•Oh my gosh! Just finished reading Culpability! I could not stop listening, and even listened at home when I wasn’t in my car, which I almost never do! Here are a couple of teasers…
Family car wreck with 17 year old son “driving” an autonomous car. Fatalities. A young summer love. A mysterious stranger with connections to the mom/wife who is herself a renowned leader in discussions of artificial intelligence. Dad is an attorney with suspicions after the police start questioning son. Daughters both have their own secrets.
Read it, and let me know what you think! So much to sift through -especially the role AI has in our lives!
•I also read The Widow by John Grisham. I hadn’t read a Grisham novel in years, so this was a fun reunion for me diving into a legal mystery. And, as usual, I was immediately hooked by the characters, and the twisty, turny story as it unfurled.
•For a non-fiction choice, I recently reread Mel Robbins’s The 5 Second Rule: Transform Your Life, Work, and Confidence with Everyday Courage so that I could discuss it with my son. He has a lot on his plate, and I wanted to share some of the strategies that I remembered from this great book. If you struggle with the snooze button or procrastination of any sort, this book has such great strategies! Did you check out The Miracle Morning from our post in March? Lots of great ideas for motivation and stopping procrastination!
Parenting in April: Grandparenting
Do you have some toys for the grandkids at your house? If so, I’m sure that you like to keep them organized and put away when the kids are not around. I found these cute clear storage bags. This way, they can help you pick up and put things away. Each bag can contain different things.
*I love finding out things that are cool for this monthly blog post. If you ever find out something that is helpful or interesting, please share with me!
Parenting in April: Movie to watch
Have you seen Song Sung Blue? We recently watched that, and it was so good. All Neil Diamond music -part of my childhood soundtrack. The story follows a tribute band dedicated to Neil. Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson are wonderful in this true story brought to life about their lives, music, and love for one another. Here is the trailer!
Parenting in April: Game to play
My kids grew up playing mahjong because my mom and her friends have played for the past 50 years. My mom taught my sisters and me, and then we taught all of our kids. Did you know that it is possible to play mahjong with cards? It’s the same game, just with cards. This way of playing is great for traveling, and is just as fun as playing with the tiles.
My boys all really love this game. Because you have to hold so many cards in your hands, these card rack organizers are great! Here is a guide to playing mahjong which is very similar to gin with runs and groups–with wild cards. If you haven’t played, it’s a great time to try!
Play on the 30th for Chinese Mahjong Day!
Parenting in April: Gadgets to try
Hair clippers -We have this model, and the boys have given each other haircuts. We even trim our dog with this. It is super easy to wash all the separate pieces between uses.
Easter egg spinner -this thing is so much fun! I used it with my preschoolers back when I used to teach that age, and they loved it. Used it with my parents and 3 young adult sons, and it was a blast.
Have you seen these sliding chip clips? They are so cool, and much better than regular “clips”
Parenting in April: Clothing
Look for new athletic shoes this month. Many brands release new styles in April, so check out your favorites for an older style for a great deal.
Parenting in April: Quote
“That is one good thing about this world… There are always sure to be more springs.“ -L. M. Montgomery
Parenting in April: Holidays to remember
April Fool’s Day (1), Easter (date varies), Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day (12), Take Your Daughter to Work Day (4th Thursday), Arbor Day (last Friday), National Mahjongg Day (30)
Parenting in April: Aging parents
This tool helps you help your parent stand up from a sitting position.
Parenting in April: Deals to look for
Time to start looking for good gardening deals. Many sales on plants and planting tools.
There are often cookware sales this month as well.
After Easter, you might stock up on holiday decor for next year.
Many people want to shred after preparing their taxes. Look for a good deal on a shredder!
Parenting in April: Helpful posts
Dorm Room Decor For Springtime
Gift Guide for a Teen’s Easter Basket
Ways That You Can Help Your Teen Prepare For Finals
When You Have An 18 Year Old: Information You Need To Know
5 Steps to Avoid Losing Your Cool with Your Teens This Summer
Best Spring Finals Care Package
Mother’s Day is right around the corner, here are some great gift ideas for yourself or any mom in your life!
We would love to stay in touch!
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