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How to keep kids busy at home & Your Sanity Intact

parenting | Play

How to keep kids busy at home & Your Sanity Intact

The Importance of Mixed Age Play

Play

The Importance of Mixed Age Play

How to encourage/promote independent play in 5 Simple Steps

Play

How to encourage/promote independent play in 5 Simple Steps

little girl playing

education | parenting | Play

The Wonders of Invitation to Play: How Parents Can Get Their Kids Playing More Independently

Understanding Schema Play

Play | parenting

Understanding Schema Play

parenting | education

Raise a Child Who Loves to Learn

Free to Learn by Peter Gray: A Book Review

education | parenting | Play

Free to Learn by Peter Gray: A Book Review

parenting | Play

30 Outdoor Activities for Kids

education | parenting | Play

Types of Play and Child Development

parenting | Play

Guarding our children’s mental health

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Together we’ll slow down, stop rushing our kids through life and raise lifelong learners who will become confident and independent adults.

thealannagallo

✨ Screen conscious parenting
✨ Let’s prioritize play + exploration
✨ Mom x 4, former teacher with M.Ed
✨ Resources for you ⤵️

This holiday season, we’re choosing to do things

This holiday season, we’re choosing to do things differently, focusing on what truly brings joy and meaning to our family.Here’s what we’re saying ‘no’ to and why:❌ Elf on the Shelf– Instead of adding the stress of daily setups and the idea of a ‘watchful spy,’ we want to nurture our kids’ internal motivation to be kind and thoughtful—not because someone is ‘reporting to Santa.’❌ Excessive gifting– We’re simplifying gift-giving to focus on meaningful items that truly add value to our lives. Too many presents can be overwhelming for kids and distract from the joy of togetherness.❌ Trendy toys– We always prioritizing timeless toys that inspire creativity and play instead of the latest trend that will likely be forgotten by January.❌ Forced Santa pictures–If our kids aren’t excited about it, we honor their comfort and respect their boundaries.❌ Candy canes– Artificial food dyes are a no for us, so we’re swapping out traditional candy canes for healthier, dye-free treats that everyone can enjoy. Maybe this year I’ll find dye free candy canes!❌ Parties and people that aren’t a ‘hell yes’– We’re protecting our time and energy by only committing to gatherings that bring us genuine joy. The holidays are about connection, not obligation.This season, it’s all about slowing down, simplifying, and soaking in the moments that matter most.What are you choosing to say ‘no’ to this year?”

Thanksgiving is more than a day of feasting—it’s a time to pause and reflect on gratitude.Teaching our children the value of gratitude not only strengthens family bonds but also nurtures empathy, contentment, and joy in the simplest things.Gratitude is a skill, one we can model through our words and actions.By sharing what we’re thankful for, listening to others, and appreciating the beauty around us, we create a culture of thankfulness that lasts far beyond the holiday season.What are you most grateful for this year?

✨ This holiday season, let’s trade the stress

✨ This holiday season, let’s trade the stress of *stuff* for the simplicity of connection.Comment WINTER WONDER and I’ll DM you a link to grab my simple winter activities that help bring back connection over consumption this holiday season.Instead of piles of toys and cluttered spaces, imagine warm family moments—playing a favorite game, baking cookies together, or heading outside for a winter walk.It’s not the gifts we give but the *memories we make* that our kids will carry with them.When we let go of “more” and embrace *meaningful*, we create space for what truly matters: love, laughter, and togetherness.This year, let’s focus on presence over presents. Who’s with me? Comment WINTER WONDER to grab 25 simple activities that will help you make this happen.

Worldschooling ❤️What is worldschooling and

Worldschooling ❤️What is worldschooling and why do we choose it for our family.Feel free to drop your comments here.

Want to build a brighter future for our kids? 🌍

Want to build a brighter future for our kids? 🌍Here’s how small choices now can make a big impact later 👇🏻📚 Read books about different cultures: Builds empathy and broadens their worldview, helping them see and appreciate diverse perspectives and a deeper appreciation humanity.✈️ Travel to new places: Immerses them in new environments, fostering adaptability and a sense of wonder. Teaches them about other cultures, religious views and ways of life.👫 Build community: Teaches them connection, the value of relationships, gives a sense of belonging and builds understanding.🎨 Encourage free play: Sparks creativity, independence, and problem-solving skills that empower lifelong learning.🌳Spend time in nature: Boosts their physical and mental well-being, grounding them in the importance of protecting our planet.💬 Teach social and emotional skills: Equips them with resilience, empathy, and the confidence to handle challenges.Change starts in our homes with how we raise our kids. Each of these small but powerful actions sets the stage for confident, compassionate, and capable adults ready to make a difference. 🌱✨

I’m a mom to four kids 9 and under AND an expert

I’m a mom to four kids 9 and under AND an expert in play who NEVER SETS UP ACTIVITIES for my kids.Here’s why I don’t feel guilty about that 👇🏻1️⃣ Encourages Problem-Solving and Independence: When kids play independently, they have to figure things out on their own. This kind of unstructured play nurtures critical thinking and helps them feel capable without needing adult guidance every step of the way.2️⃣ Boosts Creativity and Imagination: With fewer adult led activities kids get to rely on their own imagination. Boredom is a powerful motivator for creativity, giving them the freedom to explore ideas that wouldn’t fit into any adult-planned setup.3️⃣ Builds Confidence in Self-Directed Learning: Kids gain confidence when they discover that they can entertain themselves. They realize they’re capable of learning and exploring on their own terms, which is a huge part of building self-confidence and resilience. Letting them lead their play helps them develop a love of learning that isn’t driven by someone else’s agenda.So, if you’re feeling guilty for not setting up activities STOP IT! See it as a gift you’re giving your kids ❤️

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