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5 Ways to Keep Kids Entertained in Summer

Posted on by shopkick

Since you and your family may not be able to head out on your typical vacations and day trips this summer, you might be running out of ideas of how to keep your kids entertained. Leave the brainstorming to us! We’ve got you covered. We compiled some of our favorites and ditched the typical suggestion to just “put on a movie to keep them busy for a couple hours.” Let’s get the kiddos moving, thinking, and out into the fresh air for a change all while staying safe at home. Take advantage of this time together and have a fun-filled summer making memories as a family! Start out by trying one of these activities:

1. Sidewalk Chalk:

A tried and true classic, you can’t go wrong with a little street-side art! Get the creative juices flowing by heading to any dollar store or craft store and picking up a pack of colorful chalk. There are so many options for activities you can do with chalk and your sidewalk as a blank canvas. Try guessing games like hangman, a game that gets you moving like hopscotch, or make original masterpieces! You could even try using your collective imaginations to create your own game – maybe something resembling a new version of a favorite board game like Candy Land or Pictionary!

2. Cornhole:

Try playing a fun lawn game like cornhole (or as some people call it, bags)! This is a great way to get everyone outside and moving and start up a little friendly competition. Is this a tired game for your family? Try tweaking the rules and turning it into a game similar to H-O-R-S-E. Show off your fancy moves and see how creative, silly, or impressive you can get with your trick shots. Can your family members match your skills or are you the one true cornhole master? Go find out!

Don’t have a cornhole set but are feeling handy? Try building your own! It’s a great way to try something new or if you’re a seasoned craftsman, you can teach your kids great life skills while having fun building something that you’ll enjoy together. Check out this guide!

3. Water Games:

If it’s too hot to be standing in the sun for long periods of time, turn to water games! Try setting up your sprinklers to turn on for a couple hours during the day while you’re burning up in the house. Head outside and just run around through the water to cool off, or make a game of it. Who can last the longest without getting sprayed? Better start practicing your duck and weaving skills! Also, don’t forget about other fun water games like water balloon fights. If you don’t have water balloons, try throwing household sponges to soak each other. You can also break out a Slip ‘N Slide, but if you don’t have one, you can also use any old water resistant tarp like you’d have for camping or painting. Just lay it out on the grass, spray it down with the hose, and get to sliding!

4. Themed Dinners:

If your family is really missing going out to your favorite restaurants, try having a themed dinner! Dress up like chefs and waiters and prep your kitchen and dining room for the evening. Pull out tablecloths and set out silverware to make it more realistic, and try making copycat versions of your go-to dishes from your restaurant of choice. Some fun ideas could be trying a hibachi night like at Benihana or a made to order burrito night like at Chipotle.

If you’re REALLY feeling creative, kick it up a notch by making it a whole event by dressing up for the part. For example, have a luau-themed night with fish or chicken teriyaki, fresh fruits, and fun cocktails (or mocktails). Don’t forget to wear your beach party best – think: leis, Hawaiian shirts, pool floaties, whatever you got! You could also do a Disney-themed night dressed as princesses or animal sidekicks with foods like Ratatouille or even ~the gray stuff~. Check out these Disney recipe ideas. Other ideas would include dressing up like characters from your favorite TV shows and movies like Scooby Doo, Tiger King, That 70’s Show, and more! 

5. Build a Fort:

Really set on the idea of staying in to watch movies? I totally understand! Maybe try spicing up your time on the couch by working together with your kids to build the greatest castle in all the land (read: pillow fort). Grab all your pillows, blankets, quilts, and stuffed animals to make it super cozy. Spice it up by adding some Christmas lights, ribbons, and other decorations! Turn it into a legendary movie night by heading into the kitchen and making some snacks to make it feel extra special. Popcorn and hot chocolate are always hits, but you could also get your kids involved with baking cookies or making hot fudge sundaes. 

Send us pictures of your summer fun on social media. We can’t wait to see what you came up with!

Camp Shopkick: Barbecue Week

Posted on by shopkick

Our summers may look different this year, but that means it’s time to get creative and make sure all of the fun of summer’s past is still in the mix at your home! To help you foster meaningful memories with your family, we’re launching Camp Shopkick. We believe it’s not summer unless your weeks are themed with plenty of activities, so we’ll be introducing a new batch of fun each week. To kick things off, it’s Barbecue Week!

Prep Your Grill:

Grilling is a summer family favorite, and there isn’t a week that goes by when we’re not cooking lunch or dinner outside over the flame. With that in mind, it’s important to keep your grill clean. For that task, we turned to the pros from Home Depot who shared this step-by-step article on how to clean charcoal and gas grills. Take a look!

Do a Craft:

Any experienced summer camper knows that a week at camp simply must include a craft! If you and your kids are going to be cooking on your grill, we thought you might want to add to your attire.

When we spotted these no-sew DIY aprons from Say Yes, we knew we had found the ideal craft for you to make with your kids. All you need is a dish towel (the author scored a $1 towel from Ikea), bonding tape, glue and glue gun, ribbon, fabric scissors, and an iron. The steps are simple, and this craft can be completed in no time. Plus, your kids will have a new apron to wear!

If your kids love to paint, another idea is to purchase canvas or fabric aprons and fabric paint. Encourage your little ones to paint their own designs on aprons for them or aprons for the adults they love. A sentimental idea is to have them add their handprints. These are pieces you will use and treasure for years to come!

Get Cooking:

Of course, the ultimate goal with grilling is to create new recipes. To help you to cook something new, here are a few ideas: 

  1. We shared three new-to-use recipes in the Shopkick app. As a fun hint: None of our recipes include hamburgers! We’re thinking beyond the classics.
  2. Check out this blog where we shared fruits, vegetables, and complete meals you can make on your grill. Pineapple, peaches, quesadillas, and pizza are all on the menu!
  3. Epicurious is a wonderful source for recipes for kids! Their team rounded up 16 barbecue recipes for kids that reach beyond hotdogs on their site. Take a look!

Have fun at camp during Barbecue Week, Shopkickers! Let us know what your family makes on Facebook.

Simple Ways to Get Outdoors This Summer

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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

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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!

6 Free Virtual Summer Camps for Kids

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Camp is a staple for many kids and parents during the summer because it offers kids of all ages a chance to have fun, explore their interests, and experience a structured environment. This year may look different with many camps opting to remain closed for the season and families choosing to stay home and stay safe amid the coronavirus pandemic. However, organizations throughout the country (and the world!) are rallying together to make summer camp continue to be a reality! Today, we thought we would round up six of the best virtual summer camps we have discovered that are completely FREE. 

San Diego Zoo:

When COVID-19 began, the San Diego Zoo was quick to begin offering resources for families to enjoy at home. And, their We’re Here Together campaign has continued! Perfect for animal loving kids of all ages, the San Diego Zoo’s website is packed with live video cameras (there’s 13 different live streams to enjoy!), hands-on activities, games, the Zoo’s own newspaper geared for kids, and much more.

Note: It’s not free, but we did want to mention Woof Wag Dogs’ virtual summer camp for kids and their dogs! It sounds like a wonderful opportunity for both to bond together through dog training, education, and more. 

YouTube:    

If your kids have multiple interests, encourage them to explore them all through #CampYouTube! Complete video series are available online with topics ranging from STEM and arts to sports and adventure. The YouTube team has also made sure to round up videos that offer educational opportunities for kids about topics like racism. Plus, they can learn to cook and create simple DIYs. Make sure to scroll to the bottom for the Bingo boards!

Met Opera:

For kids who come alive when listening to, learning about, or performing music, encourage their interest by having them attend virtual summer camp with the famed Met Opera. Each week, the Met launches a new summer camp theme, and they’re all based around a well-known opera. There are daily live sessions streamed on their Facebook page (make sure to choose the time targeted to your child’s age!), activities, and a chance to watch the week’s opera performed by the Met’s professional singers.

Best Buy:

If you’ve been reading our blog for a while or have visited our app, you know we’re big fans of Best Buy! They’re known for their skilled Geek Squad team, and we discovered they have a Geek Squad camp where kids can learn all about tech, science, and coding. The camp is called Geek Squad Academy at Home, and your kids can explore topics at their own pace with free PDFs. Get ready because they’re about to learn the ins and outs of computers, how to capture their own photos, how to build a website, and how to create their own video game.

KiwiCo:

If you have little campers at home, get to know KiwiCo. Their crates are beloved by kids and families alike, and they launched an online summer camp that allows your camper to attend at their own pace. Simply sign up, choose your sessions or topics, and let your camper dive in! There are camps for kids of different ages from as young as three to older than 11, and they explore everything from art to engineering. If you want to enhance your camper’s experience, they do have an option to purchase one of their themed crates geared toward your child’s chosen session.

Museum of Contemporary Art North Miami:

We wanted to make sure to include a camp for art-loving kids, and the Museum of Contemporary Art North Miami’s virtual camp could not be better! If you are local to Miami, you will be able to pick up your camper’s art supplies in person at no charge, but they also created a supply list so you can pick up any materials on your own. There are basic and more advanced camps available for varied ages, and each one is taught by a professional art instructor daily over Zoom for an hour and a half. At the end of camp, MOCA will feature the best student work online in a virtual exhibition!  

We’re in this together, Shopkickers. Let’s make it a fun summer for all!

5 Easy Backyard Projects to Complete This Summer

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Travel plans and vacation may be cancelled this summer, but that doesn’t mean you can’t create an outdoor oasis at home! While it’s a bummer that we’re not jetsetting to our next adventure, we can’t wait to make incredible memories at home this summer. Here are 5 easy backyard improvements to get your home staycation ready. 

1. Give Your Furniture a Makeover

Re-sand, paint, or stain your outdoor furniture! Whether you want to spruce up an old table or you’re getting a little tired of your current patio set, this is a super affordable option to make your furniture feel brand new. Pro Tips: be sure to sand off any rust, remove loose paint, and consider your climate when choosing new paint. 

2. Upgrade Your Light Fixtures 

Light fixtures may seem like a small detail, but they can make a big statement. Swap your old fixtures for new ones, or paint them along with your furniture to give them a new look. We love this tutorial from Confessions of a DIYer! If you’re feeling fancy, you can even automate your lighting so it’s on a timer schedule. 

3. Start a Garden

Is “backyard to table” the new “farm to table?” We think so! If you’re a beginner gardener, we recommend starting with tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and green beans. Not ready to take on fruits and veggies yet? Start an herb garden and use your herbs in summer cocktails! We recommend trying this Cucumber Basil Gimlet with your homegrown basil and cucumbers. 

4. Power Wash 

Is it just us or is there something insanely satisfying about watching buildup on your outdoor spaces be washed away? Plus, power washing can make any sidewalk, patio, or piece of furniture look brand new! You can opt to rent a pressure washer from most improvement stores, or you can invest in one to always have on hand for any cleaning needs. 

5. Add Solar Lighting 

Outdoor lighting will allow you to enjoy your outdoor oasis long after the sun has gone down. Solar lighting is a win because a) you don’t need to worry about finding an outlet and b) no electricity needed! Your electric bill will thank you. We love these blown glass solar lanterns from Home Depot and this path lighting from Lowe’s! 

There you have it! 5 simple projects to create the ultimate backyard haven this summer. Don’t forget that you’ll earn kicks with every dollar spent online at Home Depot and Lowe’s through your Shopkick app!

8 Summer Fruits, Vegetables, and Meals to Grill

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Grilling is among our favorite summer activities, and it always serves as a wonderful opportunity to add new flavor to well-enjoyed recipes. We’re all drawn to grilling classics, like hamburgers, hotdogs, and kebabs, but what about fruit, vegetables, and even Italian and Mexican staples? Today, we thought we would highlight eight foods you can grill that may not have crossed your mind yet. Let’s dive in! 

1. Avocados:

Everything is better with avocado, right? And, we can confirm it takes as incredible as you might imagine grilled! Consider adding grilled avocado to dishes like classic salads, like egg salad or chicken salad, and mix it into guacamole (as always!). The key is to allow it to cool before mixing it into planned dishes.

How to Grill: Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and keep the skin. Brush with oil, and grill for 2-3 minutes on each side, according to Real Simple.  

2. Carrots:

Cooked carrots are a go-to for many family meals because they’re healthy and filled with flavor. To mix up this classic mealtime staple, try grilling it! The flavors come alive even more.

How to Grill: For best results, you may want to grill your carrots in a pan, according to The Spruce Eats. They cook for 10-12 minutes, and you will want to adjust the heat of the grill while you cook. Try this recipe, which adds salt and pepper, rosemary, olive oil, and thyme! 

3. Peaches:

Peaches are delicious no matter how you serve them, and we’ve found one of the best ways to enjoy them is grilled. Plan to eat grilled peaches how you normally would – by themselves, in cocktails, and as part of desserts.

How to Grill: The Kitchn shared their method and best tips for grilling peaches. In short, they’re ready to enjoy after 8-10 minutes on the grill!

4. Pizza:

Pizza tastes delicious after being cooking in a wood-fired oven, and we can confirm cooking on the grill creates a similar result! Create a new spin on pizza night when you prep your dough, add your sauce, cheese, and toppings and cook your pizza on the grill instead of in the oven.

How to Grill: Tasty shared a great grilled pizza recipe that you will be able to enjoy in under 30 minutes! Feel free to purchase prepared dough if you don’t want to make your own. Then add olive oil, sauce, cheese, and basil to complete the recipe!

5. Watermelon:

Did you know you can grill watermelon? It’s possible! Plan to add it to classic salads, like watermelon feta salad, or enjoy it for dessert with ice cream. According to Real Simple, adding salt to grilled watermelon is perfect for savory meals, while adding lime juice makes it taste even sweeter for a dessert treat.

How to Grill: The Kitchn knows how to grill fruit, Shopkickers! In addition to their grilled peaches recipe, they also shared a recipe for grilled watermelon. Plan to enjoy watermelon from the grill in 4-6 minutes, and make sure to cut your watermelon into wedges for the best results.

6. Lettuce:

Summer salads are a menu staple, and grilled lettuce offers new flavors to classic salads, like Caesar! We think you will enjoy the flavor added by the grill.

How to Grill: For the best results, plan to grill romaine lettuce. Lightly season with salt and pepper and add a touch of oil before grilling on each side for 2-3 minutes.

7. Pineapple:

If you have yet to taste grilled pineapple, add it to your grilling menu as soon as possible! The sweet fruit is a delight when grilled, and pineapple tastes as wonderful as a side dish to the rest of a grilled meal as it does when added to desserts.

How to Grill: Simply place pineapple on the grill and heat for 2-3 minutes, flipping the sides every so often. It’s truly that easy!

8. Quesadillas:

Similar to pizza, quesadillas taste excellent when they’re cooked on the grill rather than in an oven or on the stove!

How to Grill: The key to a great grilled quesadilla is the flip – you’ll want to cook your tortilla on both sides to make sure it’s evenly crispy and the cheese (and any additional ingredients!) are fully melted and mixed together. If you’re looking for a complete grilled quesadilla recipe, try this grilled chicken option from Delish!

Which recipe, fruit, or vegetable will you try grilling first? Let us know on Facebook!

Physics for Kids with Monster Jam Trucks

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First grade teacher Mrs. Lamb loves to create interactive lessons for her students when school is in session, and she has been providing us with some of our favorite content for the past few months. Today, she and her family dove into science and physics together with help from Monster Jam trucks!

Did you know a Monster Jam truck can weigh up to 12,000 pounds? That’s the same weight as an African elephant! They are exhilarating to watch live, and they represent science in action. As fun and exciting as it is to watch Monster Jam trucks in person, they’re also equally as enjoyable to play with at home. In today’s case, Mrs. Lamb and her family prove Monster Jam trucks offer a hands-on way to experience the push and pull of force.

Physics for Kids with Monster Jam Trucks | www.shopkick.com

Mrs. Lamb and her family wanted to see which of their four Monster Jam trucks would win in a race of force. In this case, they focused on push! They named each of their trucks – Air, Pressure, Motion, and Force – and lined them up at the edge of their dining room table (space and length are key for this race!). Then each participant was given a straw to blow into once they were officially told the race had begun. 

Before we share the results, make sure you watch the full video! Which truck do you think will win?

The results of the Mohawk Warriors Monster Jam Truck Competition are in and the winner is…

…Motion!

Physics for Kids with Monster Jam Trucks | www.shopkick.com

The important fact about which Monster Truck won is why it won! As Mrs. Lamb mentions, force can be exhibited in both small and large amounts. In this case, the person who blew into the straw that powered the Motion truck took and released the biggest breath. That means, he released the most force! The result is the air that blew the Monster Jam truck had so much pressure and force that it was able to move the car forward. That’s physics!

This physics experiment is simple and fun to recreate at home, and we hope you do! Make sure to enter the giveaway on Facebook to win a Monster Jam truck. Then visit Monster Jam’s YouTube page to watch even more science videos.

Which Monster Jam truck will win your race? Let us know on Facebook!

9 Ways to Celebrate Father’s Day

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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!

7 Recipes to Make with Fresh Strawberries

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Strawberry season is here, Shopkickers! We love strawberry season because the fruit is synonymous with spring and summer and plenty of delicious recipes. We also always try to make a point to visit a pick-your-own farm in our local area. Walking through a strawberry field, picking strawberries, and filling a tub or box is a wonderful way to remember memories made during past years while also creating new ones with your family.

As much as we enjoy eating fresh strawberries as they are, we also look forward to incorporating them into new recipes. Below, we’re sharing seven recipes, from water to dessert that will leave you feeling encouraged to add strawberries to as many meals as possible.

Strawberry Infused Water:

If you’re trying to feel encouraged to drink more water, try adding fruit! The fresh, cool taste is invigorating, and it adds just the right amount of flavor to keep water refreshing while also making it feel like a unique drink. This recipe from Wholefully will allow you to create a strawberry infused water with lime and mint.

Strawberry Banana Bread:

Over the past few weeks, you have likely baked at least one loaf of banana bread (we recommend this recipe if you haven’t given it a try yet). Now, mix up your banana bread recipe by adding strawberries! The Recipe Critic has one with great reviews we can’t wait to try.

Spinach Strawberry Salad:

Salads and summertime go hand-in-hand, and this salad by Well Plated mixes together strawberries, spinach, feta cheese, and toasted pecans. The salad is topped with balsamic poppy seed dressing, and we think it’s safe to say we just found our new go-to lunch for the season.

Strawberry Mango Salsa:

Have you ever tried salsa with fruit? It’s delicious, and it’s a total game changer! Damn Delicious shared a recipe for strawberry mango salsa that’s quick and easy to make. Just add chips!

Balsamic Strawberry Pizza:

We had not yet thought to top pizza with strawberries, but now we can’t wait to give this Balsamic Strawberry Pizza from Seeded at the Table a try! The flavors come together thanks to strawberry jam, chili sauce, balsamic vinegar, fresh strawberries, chicken, and more. This would be a fun new take on Friday pizza night!

Strawberry-Balsamic Chicken:

Gimme Some Over has reinvented caprese with this Strawberry-Balsamic Chicken recipe! Chicken, mozzarella, basil, salt and pepper, and balsamic vinegar are the only ingredients you will need, and the recipe looks delicious for dinner and even lunch.

Strawberry Shortcake:

We have to end with a classic – Strawberry Shortcake! Cake, whipped cream, and strawberries are all included in this classic dessert, and you cannot go wrong with this recipe from The Food Network. Consider baking this for July 4!

Which strawberry recipes will you try? Let us know on Facebook!

6 Recipes to Make With a Box of Pasta

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Chances are, you have a box of pasta (or many!) stashed in your pantry right now. While an extra box of pasta may be great to have on hand for a quick meal with your favorite jar of sauce, you can also get creative to expand your recipe repertoire. Here are 6 recipes to try at home with an extra box of pasta you have on hand! 

Pasta Salad 

Nothing screams summertime quite like a big bowl of pasta salad! We love the versatility of this dish. You can nearly add anything else that you also have stashed away in your pantry. You can opt for a more traditional pasta salad, like this Classic Macaroni Salad from Taste of Home, or this Sun-Dried Tomato, White Bean, and Goat Cheese Pasta Salad Recipe from Half Baked Harvest. Try one as a side dish for your next cookout with a box of macaroni or rotini noodles!

Rigatoni Alla Vodka 

No sauce? No problem! What if we told you that you can easily create a delicious homemade sauce in minutes? Making your own vodka sauce can be intimidating at first, but we promise that this homemade sauce will rival your favorite jarred sauce. You’ll want to make this again and again! We love this Easy Vodka Sauce recipe from Bon Appetit. 

Mac & Cheese

Use an extra box of macaroni or cavatappi to create the ultimate comfort meal! We love adding breadcrumbs on top of our Mac & Cheese for texture, plus broccoli or brussel sprouts for added nutritional value. This recipe from Healthy Seasonal Recipes is a great go-to! Bonus: the kids will love it!

Caesar Salad 

If you haven’t tried adding noodles to your favorite salad, you’re missing out! Noodles add fantastic texture to a salad, as well as make them more filling if you’re opting to make a salad for dinner. Dress up your traditional caesar salad with a box of penne, ziti, or fusilli noodles. Just a Taste has a delicious recipe here that even includes homemade caesar dressing! 

Skillet Lasagna 

Who doesn’t love lasagna? While we enjoy this Italian staple as much as the next person, it can be such a process to make! Skillet lasagna is an amazing way to get the taste of this family favorite, without all of the time and effort. Try this Easy Skillet Lasagna recipe from House of Yumm with an extra box of lasagna noodles the next time you need a quick, one-pot dinner! 

Stir-Fry 

Use your spare box of spaghetti noodles to make a delicious stir-fry! While you could opt for traditional lo mein noodles, spaghetti noodles work just as well. One of the best things about making stir-fry is that you can use whatever produce you already have in your refrigerator! A few add-ins we love are mushrooms, red pepper, onion, chives, and carrots. Try this 15 Minute Lo Mein recipe from Pinch of Yum.

What are your go-to pasta dishes? Share them with us on Facebook!

12 Children’s Books that Celebrate Diversity

Posted on by shopkick

The conversations and learning surrounding diversity are only just beginning, and one of the best places to continue to learn and grow with your kids is within the walls of your home. So, we thought we would share some of the children’s books we have uncovered. Each one highlights a different way of exploring diversity, and every book also seeks to educate and uplift equally. Though the following 12 books are meant for children, we’ve found they’re as heartfelt and eye opening for adults! We encourage you to explore diversity together, and we invite you to discover a new favorite children’s book in the process. 

1. Hands Up! by Breanna J. McDaniel, Illustrated by Shane W. Evans:

This picture book follows the story of a little girl and all of the ways in which she raises her hands. First, she’s a baby raising her hands for a hug. Then she becomes a little girl with her hands raised while marching in a protest with her parents. This story has been called “triumphant”!

2. Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History & Little Leaders: Exceptional Men in Black History by Vashti Harrison:

Both of these books (found here + here) are worth a mention, and we wanted to group them together. Each one highlights incredible known and not-as-well-known men and women throughout black history and how they have impacted their communities and our greater world. The illustrations are also so sweet and fun for young readers to enjoy.

3. Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry and Vashti Harrison:

NFL wide receiver Matthew A. Cherry and author and illustrator Vashti Harrison teamed up to share this sweet story about a bond between a father and his daughter. The book explores how Zuri’s dad helps her to love and embrace her natural hair – kinks and curls included. Hair Love also has a fun fact: The animated short movie of the same name won an Oscar at the 2020 awards!

4. Same, Same But Different by Jenny Sue Kostecki-Shaw:

What if your pen pal lived in a different country? That’s the case for Elliot and Kailash because Elliot lives in America, and Kailash calls India home. This picture book shares a glimpse into the ways in which Elliot and Kailash’s lives are different (they live in different countries and immerse themselves in different cultures), but the things they do and the interests they have are the same. 

5. Parker Looks Up: An Extraordinary Moment by Parker Curry and Jessica Curry, Illustrated by Brittany Jackson:

Do you remember when the photo was shared of a little girl staring up at Michelle Obama’s portrait at the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C.? Well, she and her mom wrote a book! Through wonderful words and illustrations, this picture book shares how Parker saw herself in the First Lady’s portrait.

6. Mae Among The Stars by Roda Ahmed, Illustrated by Stasia Burrington:

Are your kids fascinated by space? Meet Mae! This picture book is inspired by Mae Jemison, the first African American woman to travel into space, and it shares what can happen if you stay curious and follow your dreams. 

7. This is How We Do It: One Day in the Lives of Seven Kids from Around the World by Matt LaMothe:

What if your kids could see an inside peek into the lives of seven kids from around the world? They can in this picture book as they travel to India, Iran, Italy, Japan, Peru, Russia, and Uganda.  

8. The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson, Illustrated by Rafael Lopez:

Whether your kids have felt left out or you want to explore the ways in which we all can be more inclusive, we think your kids will greatly enjoy The Day You Begin. The title offers great insight into what the picture book explores: Sometimes we simply need to start.

9. Sulwe by Lupita Nyong’o, Illustrated by Vashti Harrison:

This picture book is known for its beautiful illustrations and the ways in which Oscar winning actress Lupita Nyong’o shares the story of Sulwe. She’s a little girl with “skin the color of midnight”, and throughout the story she learns how to become confident in her own beauty from within.

10. Chocolate Me! by Taye Diggs, Illustrated by Shane Evans:

What if you are different but want to fit in with your friends and classmates? Actor Taye Diggs and his friend and illustrator, Shane Evans, explore all of the ways a little boy’s appearance, from his skin color to his curly hair, make him unique and wonderful in Chocolate Me!.

11. Kamala and Maya’s Big Idea by Meena Harris, Illustrated by Ana Ramirez Gonzalez:

If your kids are wondering if they can effect change, turn to Kamala and Maya’s Big Idea! Through these sisters, little readers will learn how even two people can make a big difference. And, adults, you might recognize their names! Kamala is named after Senator Kamala Harris, and Maya is named after lawyer and policy expert Maya Harris.

12. Let’s Talk About Race by Julius Lester, Illustrated by Karen Barbour:

When he was describing his book, author Julius Lester said, “I am a story. So are you. So is everyone.” Enjoy reading as this book teaches what makes your kids (and everyone else!) special.

What children’s books are guiding your family’s conversations about diversity? Let’s keep the conversation going on Facebook.