Tag: coronavirus

Graduation Craft Ideas to Celebrate Every Milestone

Posted on by Kick Writers

Graduation season is filled with proud tears, big hugs, and meaningful moments — whether your little one is finishing kindergarten or your teen is heading off to college. The caps and gowns may differ, but the joy of celebrating their hard work stays the same.

So, what better way to celebrate than with something handmade, heartfelt, and fun?

Whether you’re crafting a keepsake with your child or surprising your grad with a personal gift, these graduation craft ideas are a great way to mark the moment — and create lasting memories together.

Craft a Moment That Lasts

Looking for a quick win? Try a Graduation Lollipop Bouquet. Simply glue a small school photo onto a rainbow lollipop and add a mini graduation cap. Then, bundle them in a mason jar or foam base for a bright, smile-worthy centerpiece.

For younger kids, printable coloring pages like a “Label the Graduate” activity offer creative fun. In fact, they can color their mini-grad, cut out labels, and proudly hang their work on the fridge.

If you’re looking for something more sentimental, try making a Memory Jar filled with notes, drawings, or quotes. Each slip of paper becomes a loving reminder of how much they’re appreciated — especially perfect for grads starting a new chapter.

Small Gestures, Big Meaning

Even small crafts can leave a lasting impression. For example, a decorated water bottle filled with candy, coins, or cash is both fun and practical. It’s ideal for high school seniors preparing for campus life.

Alternatively, roll a dollar bill around oversized Smarties candy to create a sweet “diploma” gift. It’s a playful twist that always brings a smile.

If your grad is artistic, encourage them to make a “Graduate Self-Portrait.” Add a homemade paper cap and have them write a few words about their favorite school memories. This craft becomes a keepsake to treasure.

Shop for Supplies, Earn Rewards

Planning a craft night or gift moment? Don’t forget to open the Shopkick app before heading to the store. As you shop at Walmart, Target, CVS, and more, you’ll earn kicks that you can redeem for free gift cards.

In addition, you can use those rewards on craft supplies, decorations, or celebratory snacks — making your celebration even sweeter.

Celebrate with Heart

Graduation doesn’t have to be extravagant to be meaningful. A handmade gift, a quiet night of crafting, or a fun family activity can be the most memorable part of the milestone.

So whether you’re gluing googly eyes onto a cap or writing a thoughtful note for a memory jar, remember this — it’s the love behind the craft that truly makes it special.

5 Easy and Fun Crafts for Kids (No Screens Required!)

Posted on by Kick Writers

Rainy Saturday? School break boredom? Or maybe just a “no screens” kind of day? Whatever the reason, having a few fun and easy crafts for kids in your back pocket can turn any afternoon around. These five hands-on activities are simple, budget-friendly, and sure to bring out everyone’s creative side.

Let’s dive into the fun!

1. Homemade Play Dough

Why buy Play Dough when you can whip up a batch at home? With just flour, salt, water, and a bit of food coloring or paint, you’ll have a soft, squishy dough that’s perfect for tiny hands. Kids love helping with the mixing—and you’ll love how affordable it is.

Pro Tip: Check out Sea Lemon’s DIY recipe on YouTube for a quick tutorial.

2. Shaving Cream Marble Art

This one is messy in the best way. Just spread shaving cream in a shallow tray, drop in food coloring, swirl with a toothpick, and gently press a piece of paper on top. Peel back to reveal a swirling, marble masterpiece!

Want to try it? Follow this guide from Alice & Lois for step-by-step instructions.

3. Friendship Bracelets

Friendship bracelets never go out of style. With embroidery thread and a few simple knots, kids can create colorful accessories to gift or trade. It’s a great craft for groups or solo time—and it teaches patience and focus.

Not sure where to start? Try DIY Projects for Teens.

4. Cool Whip Bath Paint

For a creative (and edible!) bath time activity, mix Cool Whip with a few drops of food coloring. Let your little ones “paint” the tub, the tiles—or even themselves. It’s safe, easy to clean, and a total hit with toddlers. Inspired by Busy Toddler, this idea makes bath time a blast.

5. Classic Coloring Time

Sometimes the easiest activities are the most relaxing. Coloring is perfect for quiet time, and printable coloring pages make it fresh every time. Search online for free printables, grab crayons or markers, and let the imagination flow.

Hang finished masterpieces on the fridge or gift them to loved ones as homemade cards.

Save These Ideas for Anytime Fun

These easy crafts for kids are great for rainy days, summer afternoons, or whenever you need some screen-free fun. Try one — or all five — and tag @Shopkick on Instagram or Facebook to show off your creations!

And don’t forget: If you’re stocking up on supplies, open the Shopkick app while you shop. You can earn kicks at stores like Target, Walmart, and CVS, then redeem them for free gift cards — perfect for your next craft day!

4 Easy Productivity Tips to Refresh Your Routine This Season

Posted on by Kick Writers

Do you ever feel the urge to reset when a new season rolls around? Same here. Whether it’s swapping in fresh recipes or reorganizing your space, that seasonal shift often brings a wave of motivation.

But instead of overhauling everything, let’s focus on one area: productivity.

Because one of the best feelings is ending your day knowing you spent your time well. Maybe that means crossing off your to-do list, sneaking in a workout, or enjoying family time. No matter how you define it, that “A+ day” feeling is worth chasing — and with a few tweaks, it can become your new normal.

Here are four easy productivity tips to help you get started.

1. Focus on the Small Picture

Big-picture goals can feel exciting — and overwhelming. That’s why it helps to break them into bite-sized wins.

Want to organize your closet? Don’t aim to do it all at once. Start by sorting just your t-shirts. Then group seasonal items. Those mini wins build momentum and help you make real progress one step at a time.

2. Set Three Daily Goals

Long to-do lists can be draining. Instead, focus on three key priorities for the day. For example:

✔ Go for a walk
✔ Submit a project
✔ Attend a soccer game

If you hit those three? Success. Everything else is a bonus. This approach helps reduce stress and increases your chances of actually feeling accomplished.

3. Create Screen-Free Boundaries

We all spend more time on screens than we’d like. Rather than going cold turkey, try these simple boundaries:

  • Charge your phone outside your workspace

  • Use app timers to limit distractions

  • Create “no phone” zones, like the dinner table or bedroom

Cutting screen time just a bit can lead to clearer focus and more meaningful moments.

4. Block Your Time

Structure your day into focus blocks. Group similar tasks together so you can give each one your full attention:

  • Morning: family time, morning walk

  • Mid-morning: reply to emails

  • Midday: deep work or a creative project

  • Afternoon: errands or admin tasks

Time-blocking prevents multitasking and adds calm structure to your day.

Bonus Tip: Reward Your Wins with Shopkick

Want to turn those productive errands into free rewards? Download the Shopkick app, where you can earn kicks (aka points) just for walking into stores, scanning items, uploading receipts, or shopping online. Then trade those kicks in for gift cards to your favorite stores.

It’s an easy way to stay productive — and make it more rewarding, too.

Your Seasonal Reset Starts Now

Remember: productivity doesn’t mean doing more. It means doing what matters, with intention. Start small, stay consistent, and define your version of a great day.

Have a productivity tip that works wonders for you? Share it with us on Facebook or Instagram — we’d love to hear it!

3 Goals You Can Achieve: Part 2

Posted on by Kick Writers

We’ve almost officially reached the middle of January! So, how are you doing with your goals? Have you set goals for the year, or are you still working through what you would like to accomplish this year? Keep in mind, there truly isn’t anything magical about January 1. You can set a goal and start taking small steps toward achieving it at any time!

Last week, we shared the first part of our goal setting series where we’re walking through some of the most popular goals people set each year. The fun part is we’re sharing simple steps you can do today to start working toward reaching each goal, rather than solely having them written down without a game plan. Today, we’re digging into how to read more, how to stick to a budget, and how to spend time with family and friends (yes, even during COVID-19; stay with us!). Keep reading, and make sure to tune back in next week for the third – and final – part of our series!

Read More: 

If books are on your mind, we’re here to help! This goal definitely relates to spending less time on screens, but we thought it deserved its own section. 

Consider starting slow by setting a goal to read 1 book/month. Then try to read 10-20 pages per day or set aside 15-30 minute windows of time to read. The best thing to do is to find a consistent window of time each day to carve out this routine! 

Another idea is to read books that have been turned into movies or TV shows (we compiled a list that you can find here!). Knowing you can experience how a creative team took a book from the page to the screen can be a great motivator to finish a book.

If you’re looking for great books to enjoy throughout the year, Good Housekeeping released a list of the most anticipated books of 2021!

Stick to a Budget: 

There are plenty of articles and tips about how to create and stick to a budget, but we’re here to share simple ways you can stay on track! 

One place to easily spend more each week than you may have originally intended is at the grocery store. So, make a list before you shop. Then stick to your list even as you wander down the aisles. Another idea? Don’t shop when you’re hungry! Because we’ve done it, we can confirm the rumors are true: you do, in fact, purchase more if you shop while dreaming about your next meal or snack.

Another simple thing to do to keep your budget on track is to use Shopkick to your advantage! In between interacting with us on Instagram and Facebook, pop onto the app and explore the Discover page – glance through lookbooks, watch videos, and see how you can earn kicks on your next shopping trip. Once you reach your chosen kick goal, redeem your kicks for a gift card that you can use when you next pick up the essentials on your list. Shopkick is free to use! What budget tip could be better?   

Spend More Time with Family & Friends:  

COVID-19 has definitely changed how we spend time with family and friends and, of course, how often we can gather together. But, that shouldn’t stop you from checking in on your favorite people! Many of us are suffering from Zoom fatigue once we reach the end of the day or week, so we highly recommend taking what some might call an “old fashioned” approach: pick up the phone. 

Plan a time to catch up with a friend or family member, and make it a weekly date! To feel even more connected, you can both plan to engage in the same activity, whether that’s talking while you’re taking individual walks, driving home from work, or catching up on chores (a phone call makes laundry more fun!). A call with someone you love will brighten your day!

We’re here to cheer you on! Keep sharing your progress with us on Facebook as we all work toward achieving our goals (and more) in 2021.

Top 5 Thanksgiving Hacks to Make Hosting Fun and Easy

Posted on by Kick Writers

When we think about Thanksgiving, family favorite recipes and visions of loved ones gathered together immediately comes to mind. During a year when we have spent more time apart from family and friends than ever before, a holiday spent (safely!) together sounds like an absolute delight. 

Even though Thanksgiving is one of the most joyful holidays, there’s also an element of stress for the host. So, if you’re planning to host your first Thanksgiving or your fiftieth, keep reading! We’re sharing our own list of 5 tips and tricks to make this year’s hosting duties a breeze.

Top 5 Thanksgiving Hacks to Make Hosting Fun and Easy | www.shopkick.com

1. The Early Shopper Always Wins: 

This year, Thanksgiving is on Thursday, November 26. You’re likely thinking you have plenty of time to shop – and you do! But, why wait until the week of Thanksgiving when grocery stores will be packed to purchase everything you need? Instead, start adding nonperishables and paper products (more on this below) to your pantry, especially if items are on sale. As the holiday approaches, you will only have items like turkey, vegetables, and any fruit still on your list.

Top 5 Thanksgiving Hacks to Make Hosting Fun and Easy | www.shopkick.com

2. “I’m attracted to pie.”

We’ve all heard that homemade recipes are the best recipes, but Lorelai Gilmore wouldn’t knock pre-made pie and neither should you! Consider picking up a pre-made pie or use pre-made pie crust for your pumpkin pie recipe. By purchasing pre-made where you can, you can still add a homemade twist. The difference is the time needed will be far less and will feel much more doable.

Top 5 Thanksgiving Hacks to Make Hosting Fun and Easy | www.shopkick.com

3. Warm it Up: 

Most Thanksgiving dishes require differing temperatures and timelines for cooking, so warming settings will prove helpful. Consider using slow cookers to keep dishes, like mashed potatoes, stored and warm. You can also use thermoses to keep gravy warm, and you can always warm things up in the microwave.

Top 5 Thanksgiving Hacks to Make Hosting Fun and Easy | www.shopkick.com

4. Dress Down Your Code: 

If ever there was a year for a casual dress code, 2020 is the year! While we do suggest wearing something other than your daytime pajamas, encouraging your family and friends to arrive in clothes they feel comfortable wearing will create a more relaxed atmosphere. This year, the focus is truly on spending time together.

Top 5 Thanksgiving Hacks to Make Hosting Fun and Easy | www.shopkick.com

5. Make Cleanup a Breeze

Holidays are typically when we all like to use the “good china”, but why? On holidays, we’re joined by more people than those who typically sit around our tables on an everyday basis. That means more cleanup! To make cleanup a breeze, opt for paper products for everything from plates and napkins to silverware and cups. The added bonus of paper products this year is you won’t be washing used items (a great added safety layer during Covid). 

Do you have any Thanksgiving hacks to add to our list? Join the conversation with us and our community on Facebook!

Fall Apple Crafts for Kids

Posted on by Kick Writers

There are many reasons to celebrate the arrival of fall, and we think one of them is definitely the start of apple season! We highly recommend choosing an afternoon to go apple picking in your local area. But, if apple picking isn’t quite your speed, there are still plenty of ways to craft with them. We’ve scoured the web to find five apple crafts we think kids of many different ages will enjoy. Let’s jump in! 

Apple Stamping:

Kids love to paint, and apples make wonderful stamps. We found two apple stamping tutorials that you should try! One involves creating an apple basket, while the other will lead your littles to make painted apples with faces you can hang. This is a simple way to encourage your kids’ creativity and love for color!

Apple Weaving:

If you have kids that are slightly older, challenge their fine motor skills with this apple weaving craft. You will need cardboard, paint, ribbon, and a few extra (common!) tools. Weaving is great because it acts as a great way for kids to create patterns using texture and color, and the apple is a fun seasonal touch.

Apple Watercolor:

By using makers and water on coffee filters, your kids can create their own unique watercolor art. The great thing about this craft is you likely have the core supplies at home, which means you won’t have to spend additional money. We love that the end result is apples with a creative twist you can hang up all season long! 

Apple Sun Catchers: 

To add new seasonal fun to your windows, think about creating apple sun catchers! We found two different tutorials to create new accessories for your windows, and both are equally unique. The first involves collecting fallen autumn leaves in your yard and then piecing them together to create a sun catcher. The second involves creating apple shapes using plastic beads. You can’t go wrong!

Apple Keepsake:

Kids grow and change quickly, so it’s sweet to make and hang up crafts that include their hands and feet. This apple keepsake asks makers to stamp their painted feet onto paper and then turn the stamp into an apple. You could also create a similar look by repeatedly stamping a finger. Either way, the result is a project you will treasure for years.

Which apple project will you make with your kids? Share your creativity on Facebook!

6 Ways to Lower Your Stress

Posted on by Kick Writers

Throughout the past few months, it’s safe to say we have all oscillated in feeling a complete variety of ways. One day we might be relishing in our ability to safely stay at home and spend time with our loved ones, and the next day we might feel as though we are itching for the sense of normalcy we felt at the beginning of the year. There is no one right way to feel (we’re leaning into it all!), but we have found it’s important to discover new ways or dive back into old habits in order to keep our stress levels in check. Whether you’re facing decisions about school or a desire to go back in time, try one of these six ways to lower your stress levels below. 

1. Read:

One of the best ways to disconnect is to get lost in a great book. There are plenty of sites to turn to for inspiration if you’re looking to create a reading list or simply find one great read. Try Reese’s Book Club, Read with Jenna, the Bad on Paper Podcast Book Club, and/or this list from Real Simple about the best books from 2020 (so far). The great thing about reading is you can slot in a few moments throughout the day to read a page or two or you can set aside a full block of time to complete a number of chapters. Once you start, we think reading will become a daily habit you look forward to throughout the day!

2. Exercise:

Exercise looks different for everyone. Some people love to get in a spin workout at home on a stationary bike with an app; others like to run, golf, or play tennis; while other people prefer to take a walk. No matter what you choose to do, make sure it’s something that doesn’t feel like a chore. The idea with exercising to lower your stress is to move in ways that bring you joy and boost your mood, rather than spending any time dreading working out as though it’s a to-do you would rather skip over. Before your workout, create a playlist, download a podcast, or purchase an audiobook!

3. Cook:

Whether it’s on our blog or in our app, we love sharing new recipes with you! We find cooking is a great outlet because it combines the process of following steps with an opportunity to be creative. Plus, it’s something that requires focus. Altogether, we find we do feel more relaxed and stress-free when we try cooking or baking a new recipe. The best news? You will (likely!) end up with delicious results to enjoy with your family or share with friends. 

4. Craft:

Similar to cooking, spending time working on a craft also involves working with your hands. Because it’s physical (and clearly creative!), we find our stress starts to dissipate because we have a fun task to focus on. Think about working on a DIY project, making something with your kids (Good Housekeeping has plenty of ideas!), paint, or learn how to sew or stitch. Don’t be surprised when you end up with a number of completed projects and a newfound hobby! 

5. Write:

Oftentimes, things are less stressful than they may seem in our minds once we can stare at them on paper. So, make a list! You might note things you need or want to accomplish, ideas you don’t want to forget, or even specific things that have been adding to your feelings of stress. Journaling or even typing an email to yourself are both known as being great tools to help you process whatever you’re feeling. Once it’s on paper, work to complete the to-dos or try to release your thoughts.

6. Connect:

Sometimes feelings of stress can be magnified when we spend too much time mulling things over within ourselves. So, call a friend or family member and talk! You don’t have to run through all that might be bothering you. Instead, it might be helpful to ask them questions about their lives as a way to turn off your own thought process. Another idea: meet for coffee, a meal, or ice cream together. Sometimes even five minutes spent with another person is enough to fill our wells for quite a while.

It’s safe to say we’re all experiencing stress, albeit for different reasons and in different ways, but it’s important to find ways to cope. So, how do you combat your stress? Let us know on Facebook!

How to Embrace Back to School Season

Posted on by Kick Writers

Over the past few months, we’ve discovered a new appreciation for our schools and teachers, especially as we look ahead to back to school season. This time of year always feels like the holidays for many parents and students. While this year likely continues to look and feel different for many students and families, we still believe back to school can (and should!) be celebrated. No matter if you’re prepping to learn virtually from home or return back to the classroom, below are four tips for embracing back to school this year. 

Start Incorporating Learning: 

Depending on where you reside, you’re either days away from returning to school or you have another month filled with summer fun. Either way, one of the best ways to start getting into the school mindset is to ease it back into your everyday routine. Set aside time for your kids to read, switch to an educational game on a computer or iPad, dive into a math game, or complete a science experiment. By welcoming learning back now, students will feel more ready to fully embrace a school schedule in the days and weeks to come.

Create a Schedule: 

The summer is when we all relax our schedules and embrace a go-with-the-flow mindset, but schedules are key during the school year. Take a moment to revisit first grade teacher Mrs. Lamb’s tips from the spring. She and her kids discovered how they can best learn while at home. Mrs. Lamb said sometimes that involves incorporating more focused work during the morning followed by an increased emphasis on play in the afternoon. Start determining how you think your family’s ideal school day will look and feel now. Then give it a try in advance of your official start date.

Shop for School:

We know how much students love shopping for new school supplies, and this year should not be any different even if you’re planning to learn virtually from home. Purchase new folders, notebooks, pens, pencils, crayons, markers, tech, and more just like you normally would. This nod to normalcy will feel comfortable, familiar, and exciting to your kids, and we think you will enjoy it too.

Also, consider shopping for back to school clothes! We’ve found it’s best to make a concerted effort to get dressed every day even if we’re working at home, and we think the same is true for kids. Think about shopping for new tops, pants, dresses, and shoes from their favorite stores, like Carter’s, OshKosh B’gosh, GAP, Kohls, Dicks Sporting Goods, and more through your Shopkick app as you embrace the fall season together. You’ll earn kicks, and your kids will keep up with their fun school year style. 

Embrace the School Season:

Just as you did during the spring, now is the time to embrace the school season whether it involves learning from home or returning back to the classroom. The more you and your student lean into learning, the more fun and normal it will become. Many of us are facing the same challenges, so keep this in mind: We’re all learning together, Shopkickers!

How are you and your kids embracing back to school this year? We would love to hear your thoughts on Facebook! 

P.S: For more on our “How to Homeschool” series with Mrs. Lamb, click here!

Camp Shopkick: Family Fun Week

Posted on by Kick Writers

The summer fun themes continue, Shopkickers! Last time, we shared activities, recipes, and even crafts for you and your family to enjoy with your grill in mind. And, this week, we’re back with 10 new ways you and your family and play together in your backyard this summer and well into the fall. Let’s get started!

Tie-Dye:

Tie-dye is the must-do craft this summer, and we think it’s because it’s quick and easy (albeit a little messy!). There are all-in-one kits for sale online from most craft stores, and we also discovered great tutorials from the dye brand, Rit. On their site, Rit shares new methods for creating tie-dye patterns, how to best prep your fabric before you dye it, and even faster ways to encourage your pieces to dry. Take a look!

Open a Little Free Library:

This summer, we have been reading non-stop! Although we have all largely been keeping our physical distance from our friends and neighbors, one fun way to help your community to feel more connected is by building a Little Free Library for your neighborhood. The idea is neighbors can stop by and take a new book, and the hope is they will add a new or used book to your library in return.

Put on a Play:

Put your family’s acting skills to the test and put on a play or talent show! You can encourage your kids to create a show of their own or have them recreate an old favorite. You can also encourage them to show off their talents. If friends and family want to see the debut performance, encourage them to stop by with masks and their own chairs placed 6’ apart.

Design a Fairy Garden:

We have suggested planting vegetable and fruit gardens, and flower gardens are always a given. But, we have a new garden idea: create a fairy garden! Country Living has great inspiration for you to use to create one of your own at home.

Jump Rope:

Whether your kids have already experienced the old-fashioned fun of jump rope games or they have yet to play, embrace this classic game at home! For new jumpers, consider having them begin by jumping rope on grass. This way if someone does trip, they’re falling on a soft surface rather than on hard pavement.

Make Popsicles:

What is summer without a cool treat to enjoy outside? Try your hand at making your own popsicles. With a few simple ingredients, you can create smoothie inspired popsicles your kids will love making and eating. Thank you to Lemon Tree Dwelling for sharing this delicious recipe! If you’re allergic to dairy, try adding extra fruit and orange juice in lieu of yogurt.

Add Swings:

If you have a large tree in your yard that feels like it’s simply waiting for a swing, now is the time to install one! Try shopping online, make your own, or stop by your local hardware store for a pre-made option. Another idea? Install a porch or deck swing!

Play Mini Golf:

Put your golfing skills to the test from home! Consider purchasing a mini golf set to enjoy in your backyard, or task your kids with coming up with a course for everyone to play. Don’t forget your clubs, balls, and scorecards!

Play Life-Size Memory:

We love playing backyard games because they feel even more fun when they’re life-sized. So, try creating your own version of memory! Make the cards big enough to create a large game in your backyard on your lawn. Who can match the cards the quickest?

Car Wash:

With soap, sponges, and a hose, you can create a few hours of fun for your kids outside with a car wash! Think about having them help you to wash the family’s cars, or create a “kid’s car wash” where they wash their own bikes and scooters. Everything could likely use a good clean. Why not make an afternoon out of this form of water fun?

How has your family been spending time outside together in your backyard this summer? Chime in on Facebook with your ideas!

Merry Christmas in July: How to Save Early with Shopkick

Posted on by Kick Writers

We have reached July, Shopkickers! One of the best things we have focused on this year is the joy of simply having something to look forward to, and Christmas definitely fits the bill. Even though Christmas and the holiday season are still six months away, that simply means there is plenty of time to sneak Christmas songs onto your playlist, start organizing your Christmas movie watch list, and begin prepping to save for the holiday season.

We know every little bit helps, especially during a year filled with so much uncertainty, so celebrating Christmas in July by sharing easy ways you can earn kicks and gift cards to stow away well in advance of the holiday season. Let’s dive into the simple steps you can take before, during, and after you shop! 

Before Shopping:

  1. Turn on Bluetooth for Walk-ins: When you open your Shopkick app, you will be prompted to turn on Bluetooth. Make sure you do! This enables you to receive kicks, whenever available, for walking into your favorite stores. 
  2. Link Your Card: Whether you’re shopping in stores or online, make sure to link your credit card. You can do this by clicking on the person icon in the upper left hand corner of the home screen. Then scroll down to “Linked Cards”, which is found under “My Account”. The trick is making sure to use the card that’s linked when you shop!
  3. Turn on Notifications: Whether you’re receiving notifications while you’re at home or as you’re walking into stores, make sure to enable them on your phone. This will allow you to be in the know about kicks before you start your shopping trip. 

During Shopping: 

  1. Scan While You Shop: While you’re shopping in stores, like Walmart, Target, and your grocery store, take a peek at the list of items that are available for you to earn kicks. While you’re strolling down the one-way aisles, scan! This is such a simple way to earn kicks on items you were already planning to purchase as well as those that might not be on your list during your current trip.  
  2. Submit Your Receipts: If you have scanned an item that also can be redeemed for more kicks by submitting your receipt, make sure you send a photo of your slip in! Your kicks will be rewarded shortly after your receipt is received by the Shopkick team. Keep an eye on your kick total, and watch it grow!

After Shopping: 

  1. Explore the Discover Tab: While you’re at home watching Hulu or enjoying your backyard, take a moment to explore the Discover Tab. You will find plenty of content, including lookbooks and links to blog posts. Plus, you also might just find hidden kicks!
  2. Watch Videos: Brands love launching videos in the app, so keep your eyes peeled! Videos appear while you’re shopping in stores, and they’re also on the Discover Tab. Make sure to watch so you can earn even more kicks.

What are your go-to ways to earn kicks? How are you saving for the holiday season? Let us know your best tips and favorite Christmas movies on Facebook!

Simple Ways to Get Outdoors This Summer

Posted on by Kick Writers

Summer feels a little different right now, so we have to take matters into our own hands and make the most of it! We are all definitely not trapped inside, so let’s keep making sure to get outside into the fresh air. Whether you’re a homebody or an adventurer, we’re sharing fun and simple ways to get outside, and we think you’ll find a perfect match among these suggestions! 

Host a Cookout

Not feeling up to planning a full day trip or excursion? Why not spend the day with loved ones by hosting a backyard barbecue?! While this may not be the most outdoorsy option, you’re bound to have a good time. Get creative by putting your own twist on classic recipes to make new traditions in your household. Plus, get active by pulling out a soccer ball or corn hole boards to get a little friendly competition going. Kids not around? Throw it back to your college years and dust off the old beer pong skills. Whatever activities you enjoy, getting out into the sun is key!

Start a Garden

Whether you have a small plot of land in your yard or a little planter box on your balcony, you can turn it into something beautiful and beneficial! Just by putting in a little bit of research into the types of plants that will thrive in your environment or based on the level of care you want to commit to, you’ll find something great that works for you. Will fresh herbs or tomatoes elevate your cooking? Will your favorite flowers (we love wildflowers and sunflowers!) liven up your space? Let’s find out! Grab some soil, seeds, and get to work! 

Check Out a Local Park

No matter where you live, there’s a park nearby to explore! An easy way to get out into a greener environment is to check out open, public spaces. Maybe it’s a metro park, neighborhood park, dog park, or even national park. Make a day out of it by bringing the kids, dog, frisbee, and picnic. Just getting some fresh air and a change of scenery can make a huge difference if you feel stuck in a tired schedule.

Go for a Hike (or Walk)

Hey outdoor enthusiast! You’re our type of gal/guy. A great way to get outside and embrace the natural world around you is to find a trail and get those steps in. Maybe you have a favorite hiking trail, or maybe you want to take up hiking as a new hobby. Either way, a great place to start is alltrails.com! You can plug in your location and find a spot that fits your desired location, activity, difficulty level, length, and so much more. Enjoy the warmer months by getting out and exploring nature! 

If a strenuous hike isn’t really your thing, you can still get moving with a low-intensity walk around similar trails, parks (see above), or even your neighborhood. Got kids? Building healthy habits and fun hobbies together like going on walks as a family is a great bonding opportunity.

Go Camping

If you’re really vying for a chance to get away from home, try planning a camping trip. It’s super easy to go online and reserve a campsite at a drive-in campground, or you could even backpack into a remote area if you’re feeling ambitious. Either way, just being immersed in nature and soaking up the sights, sounds, and smells can bring peace of mind and soul. Getting out of the house and finding adventure and/or tranquility within the natural world is an easy way to have a vacation on a budget. If you don’t have the time or energy to round up the troops and get away for the weekend, try pitching a tent in your backyard to have a fun but low-stress “getaway” with the kids!

Fruit Picking

It’s summer fruit season (a personal favorite of ours)! If day trips are more your speed, fruit picking is a fun, quick way to try something new, get out into the sun, and get your grocery shopping done. There are lots of fruits and veggies in season this time of year, so check out berry patches, stone fruit (peaches, nectarines, etc.) orchards, and local vegetable gardens that allow you to pick your own produce. If something like this doesn’t exist in your area, try hitting up a farmer’s market! You’ll still be able to find the freshest goods and greens, but the hard part of harvesting is already done for you.

How will you get outside this season? Keep the conversation going on Facebook!

5 Quick Work from Home Summer Lunch Recipes

Posted on by Kick Writers

During a season of spending more time at home than ever before, we’ve discovered one of the greatest perks is having a complete kitchen at our fingertips. This change has allowed us to have the freedom to mix up our lunch routine, and we have enjoyed trying new recipes. Now that summer is officially here, we have been wanting to try lighter fare that’s cool and refreshing while still packing a serious flavorful punch. So, we’re sharing five quick and easy summer lunch recipes you can either make in minutes before enjoying them or prep and enjoy throughout the week!

Chickpea Salad Sandwich:

If you’re looking for a new twist on a classic salad sandwich, try Real Simple’s Chickpea Salad Sandwich recipe! It still combines many of the classic ingredients used in chicken salad, but the biggest difference is in the name – chickpeas are used instead of meat. Prep the chickpea mash in advance and make in moments at lunchtime!

Broccoli Salad:

We love when salads are known to be even more delicious the next day or even a few days later as they are when they’re prepped fresh from the fridge, and this Broccoli Salad from Love and Lemons definitely fits the bill! It combines broccoli together with red onions, cranberries, and almonds. If you want to add meat for extra protein, we think chicken would taste delicious.

Easy Pasta Salad:

If you read our post about recipes to enjoy with a single box of pasta, you’ll remember we noted pasta is great in salads! So, we when spotted this Easy Pasta Salad recipe from Love and Lemons, we knew we needed to include it. Similar to the Broccoli Salad above, this is another recipe you can enjoy for several days. Pasta, cucumber, feta cheese, arugula, and chickpeas are a few of the ingredients in this salad, and there’s also instructions to create a homemade dressing. 

Egg Avocado Toast:

Avocado toast continues to be a staple, so who can argue with enjoying a new-to-us recipe for lunch? How Sweet Eats introduced us to her Egg Avocado Toast recipe, which includes shaved egg from a hardboiled egg you can prep in advance, avocado, radishes, chives, and salt and pepper. This recipe could not be easier, which means it will be on repeat this summer!

Asian Chicken Salad:

Damn Delicious shared an Asian Chicken Salad recipe, and it’s filled with bright colors. We’re certain it has plenty of bold flavors too! To create this recipe, you will want to have romaine lettuce, cabbage, mandarin oranges, chow mein noodles, and carrots on hand. Plus, she mentions cooking chicken at home, which would be delicious. But, we think adding rotisserie chicken would add just as much flavor while saving time (if needed!). 

What have you been making for lunch? Share your go-to ideas with us and our community on Facebook!

9 Ways to Celebrate Father’s Day

Posted on by Kick Writers

Summer officially arrives this weekend, and we also have another reason to celebrate – Father’s Day is on Sunday, June 21! While this year might look and feel different than in year’s past, we do still think there are plenty of ways to celebrate. After all, celebrating feels like such a highlight! Below are nine ways to celebrate Father’s Day from near and far. 

Play Mini Golf:

If you would like to adventure out, consider playing mini golf or pitch and putt at a local golf course. It’s a fun activity for parents and kids alike. Plus, it’s fairly easy to remain socially distant while you play. Which member of your family will win your round? Do you think anyone will score a hole-in-one? 

Beach Day:

If your dad loves the beach, consider spending the day on the sand by the sea! Build sandcastles, play in the water, and take a walk on the beach. Think about bringing subs to eat on the sand or stop for pizza to-go for an easy dinner with minimal cleanup. 

Backyard Games:

Turn Father’s Day into a mini competition in your backyard! Play backyard games, like corn hole and Jenga, create an obstacle course, DIY a slip-n-slide, or play in your pool (if you have one!). There are plenty of options for backyard fun at home.

Relaxation Station:

Is your dad craving a break? Surprise him with a day in which your family members let him take the day off. Set up a hammock so he can read, listen to music, or nap. Think about making him lunch or dinner too. He’ll end his day feeling refreshed and ready to start playing again!

Movie Night:

Whether you watch a movie no one in your family has seen or one you all love to watch together, plan a screening inside or outside with a projector. For even more fun, let dad choose which movie he wants to watch! Bonus points if it’s from his childhood because it will serve as a fun introduction to a classic for kids. 

Camp:

You can choose to go camping at a campsite or a park, or you can pitch a tent in your backyard. Share stories, enjoy a barbecue, and don’t forget to make s’mores. If you would rather camp inside that’s doable – just create your own campsite in your family room!

Build:

The Home Depot has plenty of DIY ideas you can easily make with dad! Take a peek at their site, stop by your local store for all of the supplies, and start building your creation together. 

Cookout:

Summer is synonymous with grilling, and we know many dads who love to cook the entire menu. Make all of his favorites! If you’re looking for new recipes, try your hand at grilling fruit. All Recipes has a great how-to!

Zoom or Driveway Happy Hour: 

If you can’t spend the day with dad, schedule a happy hour or dinner over Zoom! It’s not quite the same as being in person, but it does feel great to “see” each other. You will still be able to enjoy plenty of conversation! If you want to gather but at a safe social distance, host a happy hour in your driveway, ask everyone to bring their own beverages, and set up your own chairs 6’ apart.

How are you celebrating Father’s Day? Let us know on Facebook!

5 Surfaces to Sanitize in Under 10 Minutes

Posted on by Kick Writers

Between spending much more time at home living in our spaces rather than passing by throughout the day to having a desire to be extra vigilant to keep spaces tidy, we have made sure to keep our most visited spaces cleaner than ever before. Although we (and you!) feel like we have sanitized every surface, there are likely a few that might be flying under the radar. The good news is these five areas are quick to clean, and we think you can cross them off of your list in 10 minutes or less. Keep reading below! 

1. Cell Phone & Tablet:

Cleaning your cell phone and tablet might make you feel alarmed, but there are plenty of products that are safe to use on your tech. Look for tech cleaning kits at stores like Walmart, Target, or an office supply location, which often include a cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth. This article also points out other methods for cleaning your tech, like using hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes.

2. Counters:

One of the most visited areas in your home is your kitchen, especially as we all make more meals at home. So, make sure to wipe down your kitchen counters regularly. You might even want to wipe them down before and after meals to be extra vigilant! Speaking of counters, don’t forget to wipe down the counters in your bathroom.

3. Door Knobs, Handles, Faucets, & Switch Plates:

We are always closing doors, touching faucets, opening cabinets, and turning lights on and off. As a result, each represents a surface that should be wiped down regularly. A disinfectant wipe will do the trick! 

4. Computer:

Whether you’re working from home or working from an office, our fingers are always touching our computer’s keys. So, wipe them down! Make sure to use a computer friendly product when you do clean off your keyboard. A tech specific cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth will do the trick! This article goes into even more depth about how to properly clean this frequently used item.

5. Remote:

Whether you’re watching cable TV, a movie, or binging shows and movies from a streaming service, you are likely using your remote. Make sure to clean your remote often! Consider using a disinfectant wipe on it either at least once per day.

To make the process less daunting, set a timer and clean as much as you can in a 5-10 minute window. Then repeat later in the day to clean any areas you may have missed.

Let us know your best cleaning tips on Facebook!

5 Ways to Celebrate Memorial Day at Home

Posted on by Kick Writers

Thanks to the date when it occurs every year toward the end of May, Memorial Day serves as both a day to honor the fallen members of our military as well as a day to celebrate the unofficial start of summer. Celebrations may have been cancelled this year that would have encouraged us to gather together with family and friends, but that doesn’t mean you can’t create your own fun at home. Below, we’re sharing five family friendly ways you can celebrate Memorial Day, honor our military, and still experience the excitement of summer being on the horizon from home.

1. Create Chalk Art for Soldiers

In one of her first Facebook Live segments, first grade teacher Mrs. Lamb shared how she and her kids were creating mosaic chalk art. If you have already created chalk art or you’re looking for a fun weekend activity, create chalk art in your driveway, but try to only use red, white, and blue chalk! You can also add notes to our military, like “Thank you for your service”, and even honor the various branches to celebrate all who serve. 

2. Barbecue

Although friends and family may not be joining your barbecue this year, you should still make your favorite recipes! We love classic hamburgers and hotdogs on the grill, and you can also add to your spread if you grill vegetables, pizza, and fruit, like pineapple. This flag cake is also a fun item to enjoy for dessert, or you can also opt to make s’mores by the fire or in the oven.

3. Play Water Games:

If you have a pool in your backyard, make sure to jump in! Otherwise, think about playing water games with your family. A water balloon toss is a classic way to have fun, and you can also try making your own slip-n-slide or play Drip, Drip, Drench, which is a fun take on Duck, Duck, Goose. Also, remember when you ran through the sprinkler for hours when you were growing up? Introduce your kids to this way to have a blast! 

4. Make Ice Cream:

Did you know you can make ice cream without an ice cream maker? You can! This strawberry ice cream recipe from Southern Living Magazine actually allows you to create ice cream in a bag. Kids will love mixing together the ingredients, and either you or they will enjoy quite the arm workout while you’re shaking the bag of ice. Enjoy the delicious results, Shopkickers!

5. Decorate Your Bike:

Many parades have been cancelled this year, so create your own even if it’s just you and your family. With your kids, decorate your bikes using streamers and crepe paper. Make sure to don your red, white, and blue attire! Then take a spin around your neighborhood. Your neighbors will love it, and some may even choose to join in from a safe social distance, of course! 

How are you and your family celebrating Memorial Day this year? Let us know your plans on Facebook!

6 Ways to Store Produce to Keep it Fresh

Posted on by Kick Writers

Our refrigerators look and feel as though they are more stocked now than ever before. Because we’re trying to stick to our healthy (or somewhat healthy!) regimens, much of what’s inside our refrigerators is produce. With an increase in purchasing produce also comes an increased desire to make sure it stays fresh throughout the week. We’ve been researching some of the best tips and tricks, and we’re sharing what we’ve learned and uncovered on our own below. 

1. Make Sure Produce is Dry:

When we arrive home from the grocery store, one of our instincts is to rinse off our produce. While that’s a great idea in theory, produce can start to go bad if it’s too wet in your refrigerator. If you do plan to wash your produce, make sure it’s completely dry before you put it away. This is when your salad spinner comes into play!

2. Skip Rinsing Berries (for now):

You will absolutely want to rinse off your berries before you eat them, but berries don’t love being exposed to too much moisture. As a result, according to this article, it may actually be best to leave your berries in their original packages for now and rinse them off in bunches that you plan to eat right away.

3. Treat Herbs Like Flowers:

When you bring flowers home, you likely place them in a vase. Sometimes, you might even place your vase by the window. Many herbs like to be treated the same way! So, save space in your fridge and add herbs to your windowsill or countertop instead.

4. Line Your Crisper:

Chances are high that your produce will either produce moisture while inside your refrigerator or not all of the water from the rinsing you did when you got home will have dried off. So, line the bottom of your crisper’s drawer with paper towels. We know they are a hot commodity, but they will help to keep your produce fresh.  

5. Store Fruit Properly:

Before you add all of your fruit to your refrigerator, double check that’s where it likes to be stored. Items like apples will stay fresh longer when placed in the refrigerator, but they will ripen faster if they’re left at room temperature. Bananas, on the other hand, don’t like to be in the refrigerator. Instead, keep them at room temperature.

6. Don’t Over Buy:

The temptation to purchase all items in bulk is definitely there right now, but try to keep in mind what your family will eat throughout the week. If you still find that you’re having to toss items, think about buying less or stop at the grocery store midway through the week to pick up additional produce once your family has finished the first batch of berries or bananas, for example. Produce has definitely been kept well stocked!

What ways have you uncovered to keep your produce fresh? Keep the conversation going on Facebook!

Top 5 Tips on How to Utilize Online Grocery to Save Money

Posted on by Kick Writers

Do you shop for your groceries online? I have been opting to skip shopping in stores over the past few weeks as a way to keep myself, my family, and my fellow shoppers safe. However, I have to admit shopping for groceries online is not an entirely new practice for me. One of the top ways to experience a sudden increase in your grocery bill is by adding additional items to your cart while you’re roaming the aisles, and I’ve found shopping online is a great way to curb that habit. Below, I’m sharing details about how to best utilize online grocery shopping, including explaining why we think it’s best to do curbside pickup rather than at-home delivery.

5. Lookout for Hidden Fees or Service Charges:

Many online grocery delivery services offer you the perceived value of ultimate convenience; however, this convenience usually comes in the form of a fee or service charge. Looking for options that are a little less convenient (Store Pick Up, Curbside & Click and Collect) could be a better option as most of these services are free to shoppers.

4. Plan Your Meals Ahead:

Traditional grocery shopping offers the opportunity for in-store surprise and delight via end caps and displays. In the online grocery environment, shoppers can plan out cost effective meal solutions via recipe websites or influencer blogs to find cost-saving tips paired with inspiration.

3. Identify Promotions:

Many retailers are adapting their models to extend savings to their shoppers via Online Grocery (especially the pickup version). Pairing those with rewards and savings can be a winning combination. Some retailers that run specific pricing promotions have reduced these during this time of Covid-19 due to excessive demand; however, retailers such as Walmart who maintain an EveryDay Low Price model have been winning the value equation over the past several months.

2. What about Leftovers:

Shoppers right now have the opportunity to make an online grocery order be more efficient and save money by thinking through what is the follow up leftover meal that follows the previous day’s recipe. There are countless websites that can provide this leftover strategy as you are thinking about eliminating food waste during this time and helping your dollar go farther.

1. Pickup is the Key:

I don’t want to belabor the point, but the best way to drive savings and avoid pesky upcharges is to make the effort to go to curbside pickup at your participating grocery location. Almost all grocery retailers are extending pricing and discounts for at-store pickup orders. This gives you full confidence you are maximizing the convenience factor while avoiding delivery fees and up-charges.

How have you been saving money on your weekly grocery budget? Join the conversation with fellow Shopkickers on Facebook!

The Best House Plants for Your Home

Posted on by Kick Writers

While we have been spending more time at home, we have been looking for ways to bring nature inside. It’s felt like a welcome respite to see plants and flowers throughout our homes! In order to source new house plants, we have been looking for online options with great selections. And, we have noticed 1800Flowers.com has plenty to explore! After searching through their inventory, we thought we would share some of the house plants we have discovered that promise to last for years while only requiring you to follow simple care instructions. 

The Best House Plants for Your Home | www.shopkick.com

Dieffenbachia Plant:

The Dieffenbachia Plant is available in three sizes on 1800Flowers.com – floor, table size, and shelf – which means you can choose the best option for your home. The leaves feature a variety of green and yellow tones, which we’re drawn to. Plus, the plant loves indirect sunlight and evenly moist soil. The care is simple, but it will require a little more effort than other options on our list.

The Best House Plants for Your Home | www.shopkick.com

My Pet Plant:

We spotted this Pet Plant, and immediately thought of dog and cat lovers as well as kids. The plant that arrives in the cat or dog planter is a spider plant, which only requires water when the soil is dry. Spider plants don’t love direct sunlight, but any other kind of light will work! If you opt to purchase this house plant, you can also choose to have it arrive with cat or dog treats for your real life animal.

The Best House Plants for Your Home | www.shopkick.com

Pilea Peperomioides Plant:

If you have heard about propagating, which means starting a new plant using a leaf and roots from an existing plant, the Pilea Peperomioides Plant might be for you! 1800Flowers.com describes this plant as one that has extra bright and airy green leaves. It requires water when the soil is dry, which means the care is very simple! Plus, it doesn’t grow too large, which means it will always look wonderful on a table, desk, or counter.

The Best House Plants for Your Home | www.shopkick.com

Snake Plant:

Snake Plants grow vertically, so they will always feel like 1800Flowers describes – modern and architectural. Similar to the other options on our list, snake plants only require water when the soil is dry, and they do enjoy indirect sunlight the most. A bonus? They purify the air! 

The Best House Plants for Your Home | www.shopkick.com

Fiddle Leaf Fig Floor Plant:

If you have spent any time reading blogs or exploring Instagram, you have likely seen Fiddle Leaf Fig trees! They are one of the most popular house plants, but be warned – they do require a bit more work in order to truly thrive. According to 1800Flowers.com, Fiddle Leaf Figs do best in inside spaces that offer indirect sunlight, watering when the soil is dry paired with daily misting, and space to grow. Humidity is also a bonus for Fiddle Leaf Fig Trees, so you will definitely benefit if you live in the south!

Do you like to grow house plants at home? What plants would you recommend that are easy to care for? Let us know on Facebook!

5 Books Turned into Shows to Watch on Hulu

Posted on by Kick Writers

Since the debut of streaming services, like Hulu, there has felt like there is a complete plethora of new movies and series. That’s definitely beneficial now while many of us are practicing physical distancing at home! We’re always most curious to watch shows that originated as books because we’re eager to see how the production and creative teams have changed the storylines (if at all). So, today we’re highlighting five books turned into TV shows that you can start streaming now on Hulu! 

1. Little Fires Everywhere

Celeste Ng’s “Little Fires Everywhere” debuted in March as a new series on Hulu, and Hello Sunshine, Reese Witherspoon’s production company, is one of the teams behind the series. Reese also stars in the show as Elena, one of the main characters, along with Kerry Washington, who plays Mia – an artist who moves to town with her daughter Pearl. Through twists and turns, the series follows both women and their families as their lives intertwine in the ‘90s in Shaker Heights, Ohio. You will be guessing about who started the little fires you see in the first scene until the very end of episode eight when the season comes to a close. We’re already hoping there will be a season two!

2. Big Little Lies

Liane Moriarty’s “Big Little Lies” is one of the author’s most well received novels. It weaves together the story about Madeline, Celeste, and Jane, and the book opens with a murder. The book felt made for TV, so when Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman, and Shailene Woodley debuted on the screen as the famed characters, the series was immediately a cult favorite. The first season featured seven episodes, and fans were quickly requesting a second season. The creative team happily obliged, so there are currently two seasons available on Hulu!

3. Pretty Little Liars

If you enjoy YA novels with a mysterious twist, you will likely be a fan of “Pretty Little Liars”. The book series is set outside of Philadelphia, and it centers around the lives of five high school best friends. The problem is one of their friends, Alison, is found dead in her yard, and the four remaining friends keep receiving messages from “A”. Who is “A”? You’ll have to watch the series, which is available on Hulu, to find out! There are seven seasons available.

4. Pride & Prejudice

In 1995, Jane Austin’s “Pride and Prejudice” debuted on the BBC starring Colin Firth. Now, the famed novel and series are both available for you to stream on Hulu. There is only one season available, but it does tell the complete story of the Bennett sisters and their love interests, including Mr. Darcy.

5. Younger

Can Liza successfully find a new job in publishing after raising her daughter? Will her peers believe she’s half her age? “Younger” originated as a book by the same name by Pamela Redmond Satran, and the series, which is set in New York City, follows the same arc (with new twists, of course). Starring Sutton Foster and Hilary Duff, the series is reminiscent of “Gilmore Girls” if Lorelai and Rory were living in the city. There are currently six seasons of “Younger” available on Hulu, and the next season will hopefully debut later this year on TV Land. 

Will you read the book before watching the series? And, which series piques your interest the most? Let us know on Facebook!

3 Ways to Engage Young Readers

Posted on by Kick Writers

Happy Thursday, Shopkickers! First grade teacher Mrs. Lamb filmed another segment today on Facebook Live. Because we want to make sure we’re answering the questions you have, Mrs. Lamb answered one of your questions today. She shared three great tips about how to keep young readers engaged, and we have the recap below.

Lego Sight Words

Mrs. Lamb touched on the importance of sight words for young readers, and she revealed a fun new way to help students to learn them – Legos! Simply write one letter on one (or both) sides of a Lego brick. Keep going until you have a collection. Then ask your student to create sight words with the lettered bricks.

By participating in this learning activity, they’re learning about:

  • Fine Motor Skills – The act of making mini groupings of Legos helps with this.
  • Letter Identification – Your student must know which letter is on the Lego in order to use it.
  • Spelling – Your student is learning how to spell their sight words while they’re building.
  • Sentences – Once your student has built a few words, ask him or her to create sentences using the groupings.

Roll + Read

Similar to creating words with Legos, Roll + Read allows kids to be interactive while reviewing sight words. The idea is simple: create a mini board with the numbers 1-6 written vertically down the side. Next to each number add three sight words across the board horizontally. It helps to use a whiteboard if possible!

In order to learn, your student will roll a dice and choose a word from the row associated with the dice’s number from the board. They will read it out loud, and as long as it’s correct, erase it from the board. This is a great activity for kids to do independently, and you could also turn it into a game to see how fast the board can be completed. Then, decide on a fun reading reward! 

How to make a whiteboard:

  • DVD Case:
    • Remove the front and back covers from a white DVD case. Leave the plastic on.
    • Use a permanent or whiteboard marker to write on the board.
    • Use an old sock to erase.
  • One Gallon Bag:
    • Place white computer paper inside a zipped one gallon bag. If you use a mini stack, it will be easier to write on the board.
    • A permanent marker, whiteboard marker, and an old sock work here too.

Roll + Retell

Mrs. Lamb’s final tip to engage young readers is called Roll + Retell. This PDF from Fun in First is a great tool because it offers prompts for readers to answer about the key components of a story, like characters, setting, and more. Each component of a story is associated with a number from a dice, so you or your student will want to roll the dice in order to see which story question they should answer. Roll + Retell is interactive and fun, plus it’s also ensuring your student is learning and absorbing while enjoying listening or reading books. 

If you’re looking for great story resources, visit YouTube! Plenty of authors, illustrators, and celebrities have been taking to the internet to read to young students. Your kids will be busy for a while!

How do you encourage your young reader to read? Let us know and make sure to tune into Mrs. Lamb’s next Facebook Live segment on Tuesday!

5 Trendy Workouts to Try at Home

Posted on by Kick Writers

Aside from staying home during the current pandemic, one of the best things we can do for our mental and physical wellbeing is to stay active. Spending 10, 30, 45, or 60 minutes a day invested in a workout has the potential to make you feel strong and accomplished because you’re sweating and moving your body. Thanks to the known benefits and in an effort to encourage us to continue (or start!) our workout routines, many gyms and fitness studios are now posting their classes online. So, if you have been wanting to try out a trendy workout, like Peloton, Barre3, or Orangetheory, keep reading because we’re sharing five trendy workouts you can try for home!

1. Peloton App

You’ve likely heard of Peloton and their bikes, but did you know they also have an app filled with plenty of other workouts? Try out yoga, strength training, walking, running, cycling (of course), and more via the app with any of their trained instructors. Classes range from quick 10 minute sessions to hour long classes you can participate in live or at your leisure (everything is saved). At the time we’re publishing this post, Peloton is currently offering a 90-day free trial. 

2. Obe Fitness 

Obe Fitness is known for their 28 minute workouts, and they recommend alternating between cardio (SWEAT), strength (STRENGTH), and yoga (FLOW) classes throughout the week. Because the sessions are short and known for their high energy feeling, we won’t be surprised if you achieve their recommended goal of 5 classes/week. Try a free trial to see what you think before joining and paying for a monthly membership.

3. Shopkick 

Have you worked out with us yet? We have been launching new workout videos on Mondays and Wednesday in the app and also on Facebook Live! Mondays is devoted to mindfulness, so join us to practice yoga and stretch with Cat. On Wednesday, join us as we try a different workout each week. We’ve done Zumba, stretching, and core work so far with Nikki!

4. Orangetheory 

If you have not yet tried Orangetheory, you likely have a friend who is a big fan. Typically, Orangetheory workouts are an hour long, and they’re designed to work on “endurance, strength, and power”. Currently, the team behind Orangetheory is launching daily workouts for you to do at home with most lasting for 30 minutes. Everything is free through the Orangetheory At Home program!

5. Barre3

Barre3 combines strength training together with ballet, and the full-body workouts are known to be challenging. Choose your level and stream workouts online during a time that suits your schedule. Currently, you can enjoy a 15-day free trail and some items you may wish to purchase to use during your workouts are discounted.  

Join us on Facebook as we stay active together!

How to Support Your Community During COVID-19

Posted on by Kick Writers

We all have favorite small businesses we enjoy supporting whether they’re located in our hometowns or online. Many of the businesses we are thrilled to support during other times throughout the year are the same businesses that are being hit the hardest now during the coronavirus quarantine. Though we may be inside and at home, there are still plenty of simple and easy things we can do to support our communities. Here are five of our ideas:

1. Contribute to Charity Campaigns

Online campaigns are launching to support small business employees who cannot work during COVID-19, and we have been happy to support them during this time. When many of us donate $5 or $10 to these campaigns, those amounts add up to much more and fast!

2. Order Takeout

We may not be able to eat in person at our favorite local restaurants, but many are still offering takeout. So, order online and turn to Uber Eats to bring you your delivery. P.S: Make sure to use Shopkick if you order with Uber Eats because you’ll earn kicks!

3. Purchase a Gift Card

A gift card can go a long way for a small business in your community. Your purchase provides cash flow for the business now, and it offers a promise that you’re going to return once they can open their doors again.

4. Post on Social Media

Posting about your favorite shops, boutiques, and restaurants on social media is a quick, easy, and free way to show your support! Consider sharing menu items you enjoy from local restaurants or items you have purchased from local shops. Everyone enjoys visuals!

5. Shop Small

If you do need to purchase something online, try supporting a smaller shop or boutique! Many have online stores so their items are always available, and now shopping online is the best way to pick up new items while still keeping your social distance.

How are you supporting your community? Chime in on Facebook!

How to Homeschool Your Kids: Tips from a Teacher

Posted on by Kick Writers

In an effort to continue to share content that can make an impact in your lives, we have been sharing tips for keeping kids busy at home. Combined with your requests and requests from our own families and friends, today we thought we would tackle a new topic with help from an incredible educator: homeschooling!

Students, teachers, and parents are currently trying to navigate completely uncharted territory as many jump into homeschooling for the first time, and we knew first grade teacher, Mrs. Lamb, would offer great insight. So, we went live with Mrs. Lamb today on Facebook! Did you catch it? If not, make sure to watch the replay, and take a peek at the comments. There are so many great learning ideas from fellow Shopkickers who are homeschooling for the first time just like you!

A few of our favorite takeaways from Mrs. Lamb about how to homeschool:

1. Prep the Night Before

For parents who are also trying to work from home, we think this tip is especially meaningful! The night before, review the schoolwork your child needs to accomplish. Then, set initial assignments aside, especially those your child can complete without guidance from you. When you spot work that will require hands-on help, pull that from the pile and save it to do together to prevent interruptions during your work calls.

2. Create a Schedule

Kids (and adults!) are used to schedules, and it’s important to keep that going at home. Of course, you’re free to make modifications depending on how you and your family feel the day is going. However, having a general plan works wonders! Mrs. Lamb mentioned she and her kids have found it’s best to complete work that will require them to sit at the table during the morning. Then, they switch to a special, like art or music, during the afternoon and sometimes do a science experiment together. The freedom to play is especially important after lunch when energy levels rise and the desire to sit still starts to fade.

3. Encourage Independent Work

Mrs. Lamb was quick to point out students are asked to work independently at school, so they should be able to do the same thing at home! As we mentioned above, starting the day with independent work or scheduling it for times when you need to attend meetings works well. Mrs. Lamb also said Go Noodle is one of her go-to sites for younger kids who need fun activities that they can do on their own.

4. Set Up a Reward System

Mrs. Lamb mentioned a few different ways to offer rewards during her Live. She said she and her kids have been filling a mason jar with gems – they’ve named it The Gem Jar. Mrs. Lamb also mentioned choosing a word and then spelling it out with stickers each time a child (or parent!) has an accomplishment. A key takeaway: “wins” can be things like completing work or doing well on an assignment, but they can also be even more simple like being kind to a sibling or getting dressed for the day on their own. Once your goal is met, do something fun together at home!

5. Explore Activities at Home

Whether you’re planning how to explore specials together or thinking of a fun family reward for a full Gem Jar or completed work, you definitely don’t have to look further than your home! A few ideas that stood out to us: build a fort, camp in the living room, create chalk art with painter’s tape (here’s a tutorial), or enjoy a family movie night. 

BONUS: Stay Connected

We’re all missing the everyday connections we typically make without effort, so it’s more important now than ever before to make sure to stay connected to friends and teachers. Turn to Zoom, FaceTime, and more to stay in touch! While you’re talking, share what you and your family are doing during your school time together.

Mrs. Lamb sent us all of her go-to resources for at-home learning, and we wanted to make sure you can access them too. Here’s the full list:

Movement

Reading: 

Math Tools:

Enrichment Activities

Virtual Field Trips:

Communication Tools:

We’ll be sharing more tips and tricks from Mrs. Lamb, but don’t hesitate to chime in on Facebook in the meantime!

5 Fun Outdoor Activities for Kids

Posted on by Kick Writers

Almost all of us may have been asked to stay at home, and we’ve shared ideas for indoor activities to do with kids, like crafting and cooking, but that doesn’t mean that time spent exploring the outdoors is suddenly off limits. In fact, now more than ever, outdoor fun feels refreshing and even more necessary as a way to burn off energy for both kids and parents. Walking and running around your neighborhood together is always a wonderful option, but we have five more ideas for you to consider. Let’s go outside!

Five Fun + Simple Outdoor Activities for Kids:

Bike or Scooter Ride:

Your kids likely love riding their bikes or scooters on your driveway or around the block, but when was the last time you joined them on your own set of wheels? Take a family ride together! Explore your street, neighborhood, or a new-to-you part of town. This is a great family activity to incorporate daily even if it’s just a quick ride around the block.

Scavenger Hunt Walk or Hike:

Now is the time to explore your own backyard or neighborhood, but switch things up so it doesn’t feel like an everyday walk or hike. Think about creating a scavenger hunt! You can create your hunt by listing shapes or colors you would like your kids to find, or you can suggest specific objects. This printable Nature Walk Scavenger Hunt by Baby Boy Bakery is perfect for the occasion!

Backyard Camping:

A proper camping trip might not be in the cards at the moment, but we’re certain all of your gear will be equally as fun in your backyard. So, camp out together! Tell stories, make up a skit by the fire, play games, and don’t forget about the s’mores. If you don’t own a fire pit, never fear – you can make s’mores in the oven! The Food Network has a great quick and easy recipe.

Field Day:

School is out of session, and your kids might be missing out on field day. So, create your own! Create an obstacle course, jump rope, play volleyball, see which family member can win at H.O.R.S.E, run races, and more. This post by The Simple Parent has a number of fun (and easy!) ideas you can play at home.

Outdoor Movie:

You don’t always have to watch movies inside! If your weather is cooperating, take your movie night outside. Use a projector to create your own screen on the side of your house or on a sheet. If you don’t own a projector, set your laptop up outside. Don’t forget to pop popcorn and have your favorite candy on-hand.

What other ways are you and your family spending time outdoors together? Let us know on Facebook!