Tuesday April 30, 2013
Headed to the beach? Think light. If you've felt like a hermit crab on past beach trips, shoulders and hands laden with the family's toys and towels, you'll want to check out the totes on my list, which are small enough for kids to carry. Other finds can lighten your load as well, like the Turkish towel pictured, which can be worn as a scarf or pareo on the walk to stake your territory in the sand.
Also think beyond this one trip. The stylish items I've found will add style to the beach and beyond. One bag makes a great shower caddy, another an eco-friendly lunch bag. How about a towel that doubles as a dress-up costume, or one that looks elegant when tossed over the sofa? Well-made toys will be just as welcome in the bath or on the playground.
Tuesday April 30, 2013
Growing up, sun protection wasn't emphasized the way it is today. I spent countless hours playing outside in minimal clothing, and don't remember wearing sunglasses regularly until my teenage years. Fortunately, my love of fashion did lead me to make a sun visor my signature accessory for a few years. Once that love affair ended, however, all hats were off.
Now I'm informed about early childhood sun safety, but I'm still working on making sun protection second nature. In the hopes that getting my kids into good habits early on will make their lives easier (and healthier), I set the stage for success by giving them options and encouraging routine.
Think about what might work for your family. Comfortable sunglasses? A cool hat for everyday wear? The choice of a shirt over reapplying sunscreen? Check out my list of kid-friendly sun protective gear for ideas.
Tuesday April 30, 2013
'Tis the season for outdoor living -- playing in the park, splashing in the pool, exploring the beach and hiking the trail. Longer days allow for hours of fun in the sun, but with that extra playtime comes added need for sun protection. An iconic Australian ad campaign encouraged residents to "Slip-Slop-Slap," referring to a shirt, sunscreen and a hat.
While sunscreen use is up in the US, and rash guards are gaining ground, we have yet to fully embrace the hat habit of friends down under. Even on the beach, kids in sun hats are often the exception. Until that rule reverses, it might take a little extra effort to convince your kid to wear a hat. Fortunately, there are more options than you might see on the big box store shelves.
Check out my round-up of sun hat styles ranging from chic to silly to find a hat that suits your kid. If you live in a hat-happy culture, let me know what helps you remember to Slap one on.
Friday April 19, 2013
The three Rs take on a different meaning this time of year, as schoolchildren recite the mantra of "reduce, reuse, recycle" and turn their focus to the outdoors.
Along with crafting pine cone bird feeders and gardening, I plan to celebrate this Earth Day with a little sartorial spring cleaning. Want to join me? Assess the kids' existing wardrobes and gear to determine upcoming needs, and acquaint yourself with sustainable sources so you'll have a few go-tos at the ready. While you're at it, pull out any hand-me-downs you can pass along, keeping them out of the landfill longer.
To get you started, I've rounded up a list of eco-friendly clothing and gear, with each item as much stylish as sustainable. Begin by finding a green replacement for your most immediate need, say organic underwear, or prioritize goods which will reduce your family's carbon footprint on a daily basis, like reusable bags.
Go Green!
