Supplies Surprise

i know it feels really early for this, but just a little something to keep in mind.

when you start buying school supplies, throw in a few extra folders and pencils to donate.

the school supply drive 101 sponsored by "do something" (a great service leaning site for teenagers) asks you to drop off school supplies at any local STAPLES. they will be distributed to children living in need so that they can more easily attend school in the fall.

here's the link for "do something"

the lesson: it's hard not to take the basics for granted. even school for some kids is a real struggle.

***added bonus: beat the rush and get supplies while you have top choice of trapper keepers (i always hated the name "trapper keeper", just thought i'd share).

Out of the Box

making family time for EXTRAS is a constant uphill battle, i often feel like Sisyphus. but when you see the effects of "extras" like giving, it seems incredibly worthwhile; the kids are engaged, they feel useful and they carry with them a new confidence.

this summer, i challenge you to THE BOX PROJECT. this non profit pairs you with a family living in poverty in the USA. each month, based on the recipient family's needs, you and your family send a box, some months it's filled with food, other months medical supplies and another time may be books and toys - each month might be a combination of all of the above.

i love that it's a scheduled amount of time for your family to set aside each month to focus on others in need. there are letters and pictures exchanged and a real bond forms between the two families.

here's a link: www.boxproject.org

the lesson: a family just like ours is less lucky than we are BUT we can help.

***added bonus: a project to keep them off of the video games at least one day a month this summer.

Acme Birthdays - appreciation circles

today my son celebrated his birthday at school. they have an amazing tradition of making each child a BIRTHDAY APPRECIATION CIRCLE. i bet you could guess that it's where the class sits around while each student says something about the birthday boy (or girl) that they appreciate. but aside from it's obvious name, this was better than any play set from toys r us and something i hope every school does. 

a great way to show gratitude and kindness to others of all ages AND doesn't need to just be for birthdays. try it around the dinner table, a girl scout fireside or a school/ summer camp morning meeting. the boost of confidence is quite a gift for that child.

the lesson: thinking about others and some simple ways to help people feel good. then there's karma - in a circle especially, what comes around goes around!

***added bonus: the savings on presents!!!!

At Home Heroes

i can't fight it. SCREEN TIME is everywhere; TV, computer, video games, portable DVD players, iphones, ipods and portable gaming systems like a DS or PSP. jeesh. that's a lot of screens. if you can't beat em, at least you can make it worthwhile. i know (from too much personal experience) that there are some amazing games on the market that can be used as learning tools. so goes it for online gaming.

HABITAT HEROES is a website with social networking for kids and information to educate and inspire them about the environment. sharon lowe, the founder of HH says that treating other living creatures with respect is of the utmost importance to her family, and that children learn better by playing - we can all agree with that. so she has put to practice these ideas to help teach kids about the animal habitats that are being affected by global warming. players choose an animal and make their way through the site.

www.habitatheroes.com

the lesson: their eyes glued to a screen, at least can be productive. children often relate to animals' struggles as they also feel like voiceless beings themselves.

***added bonus: once kids learn games on this child friendly site, a parent might just have time to say... open a magazine?? return a phone call?? ahh, the dreams. how they change.  

BULLSEYE!

it often feels like i can go weeks, even months, without seeing the big picture. living in a myopic world of my family and the "to-do list", i forget about all the help needed in the world. AND to add insult to injury, i know i'm not alone when i fondly reference those regular, almost mindless, trips to target where very full shopping carts (sometimes two) of god only knows what are de riguer.

here we can solve both of those problems: make meaningful purchases at target AND help those who need it.

the TARGET HOUSE is a home like no other. it is affiliated with the st. jude's children's research hospital and accommodates thousands of families NOT on vacation. they have made a wish list of items that you can easily buy on target.com to help these children feel more comfortable during their treatments.

www.target.com/targethouse and scroll to the bottom to find "wish list"

although you still might need to go to target for toilet paper (and 5 dozen more random items), at least now you can cross off help others from your "to-do list" this week.

'Wich Craft

my kids eat the same lunch almost daily. peanut butter and jelly sandwich for one, and soynut butter and jelly for the other (who has a strict "no nut" policy at school, and yet, somehow they always let me in!). 

making lunches is a deeply tedious task and one of my least favorite mom jobs.

BUT since we're doing it anyway, here's a kooky idea...

what about a sandwich assembly line? a loaf of bread, a jar of PB, a jar of jelly, a butter knife and some ziplock bags. you and your kids can whip out a dozen sandwiches in no time flat.

take them to a shelter, a food bank or just hand them out on the street to those who look like they could use it. it is really fast and really fun and makes a really big difference to the people who are hungry. 

the lesson: if we can help, it's our job to do so. this is the same lesson written here again and again but it's the lesson i really want my kids to own.

***added bonus: while you're at it make a few extras and stockplie for the week's lunch boxes.

Bigger Big Sunday

every spring BIG SUNDAY arrives and this year it is upon us may 3rd. this is a day where families everywhere volunteer to help a long list of organizations. similar to michelle obama's "call to service", this day asks you to just DO SOMETHING, ANYTHING to help out. anywhere.

i keep hearing schools talk about "100% participation" about different things from giving money to parking in the correct pick-up spot, BUT... what if we had a world where giving back had 100% participation? imagine what that would look like. 

here's the link for BIG SUNDAY

if you can't find anything near you, feel free to take ideas listed on this site and have your own "little sunday".

the lesson: true, our kids have homework and soccer and ballet and sunday school. our lives are FULL, but if we can expose them to helping and giving kinds of experiences, they will shine, grow and feel in ways that will reward not only the recipient of the help, but mostly your child. they will feel big and significant in the world. they can make a difference.

*** added bonus: i say SUNDAES for all participants of "big sunday"! of course, you'll have to organize the trip to ben and jerry's on your own.

Say What???

run, don't walk, to the nearest link to amazon.com (if you are on the acme sharing website, it is on your right). i find myself referring to this book ALL THE TIME and it suddenly dawned on me that i should "share" it here. because it would, in fact, make the world a better place for us and our kids if we all had THE handbook for parenting. betsy brown braun is the real deal. her advice is so thoughtful, developmentally appropriate and most of all, comes from common sense (the kind we don't have when we are faced with our kids mid-wrestle, hair-pulling and tears).

"just tell me what to say" by betsy brown braun

Isn't Every Day Earth Day?

here is a fun and easy project to do as a family. create a wildlife habitat for the neighborhood animals. no, not a den for coyotes or skunks, but a bird bath or feeder for your sky bound feathered friends.

log onto the national wildlife federation for details and suggestions to make your backyard (or balcony) a certified natural habitat.

the lesson: what's ours is theirs. wouldn't we want to indulge in the kindness of strangers if we were flying north for the season?

***added bonus: dust off those expensive binoculars you never use and put them to work.

Earth Day - Movie Magic

earth day is right around the corner (it's april 22) and the first item on our list is to take the kids to see the new disney EARTH movie. here is the BEST part... when you purchase a ticket during opening week, disney will plant a tree in the brazilian atlantic rain forest (considered to be the most endangered rain forest since only 7% of it remains).

here is a link to get all the deets

the lesson: having not yet seen the movie, i can only hope that it will give our kids an amazing overview of so many of the wonders and creatures we don't see on a regular basis. this will help them to appreciate it more.

***added bonus: popcorn with m&m's and some red vines all to help this beautiful planet of ours.

Soooo Sweet

the great american bake sale is an organization that helps you put on a (see if you can guess what i'm going to write next) bake sale!!! yay, you guessed right!

they send you a poster, give you the low down on sales, give you an email card to forward to friends and set up an account for you. sure, you could do all of this yourself, but somehow it seems so much more LEGIT.

TGABS (my acronym) gives all of the monies raised to a hunger relief organization in your neighborhood.  this morning my son and his "girlfriend", charlotte, made a whopping $33. if i may go one step further, i would like to recommend baking rice krispies treats - they are the EASIEST thing on the planet to make. melt butter, add mini marshmallows, add cereal, stir and pour - THE END.

here's a link for THE GREAT AMERICAN BAKE SALE

the lesson: basically it's "business school 101": make a product, market and advertise, sell and donate.

***added bonus: it's really fun, great to eat leftovers and who doesn't love sitting around begging people for a dollar.

In The Jeans

i am no fool (most days). i know how impossible it is to ask children to go through their toys and give away the ones they don't use. most kids just can't do it - yet. but clothes? you bet. 

since spring is here, it's time for SPRING CLEANING. 

here is an amazing denim drive that is trying to break the Guinness Book Of World Records for the most clothing recycled. all of these jeans will be turned into cotton fiber insulation for homes damaged in natural disasters.

here's a link for more details: at national geographic kids

jeans (and jackets) must be sent in by june 30th for those of you who do spring cleaning closer to summer. 

***added bonus: a way to kill an hour or two (if you count a trip to the post office to mail them out) until spring break is over and school is back in session.

Cookie Monsters

acme sharing was lucky enough to have a little mention in cookie magazine. if you are a first time visitor from this WELCOME WELCOME. you and i already have a couple of things in common; our interest in raising kids who are socially conscious AND the same taste in periodicals.

this site is set up for parents to help fold in some giving back ideas to the already busy lives of our families. here are a few easy steps:

1.) demonstrate kindness (see post below)

2.) read bedtime stories with a message 

(see ACME LIBRARY on the right)

3.) engage in kid friendly projects that are linked to existing non-profits 

(you will find 75 on this site)

4.) alternative ideas for birthday parties 

(there are a few here)

5.) alternative ideas for birthday gifts 

(you'll find some below)

if you are already a subscriber, forgive the recap. hope it may inspire you to revisit some of the older posts.

Model Behavior

life is MESSY. i often pretend otherwise. keep my ducks in a row, keep a neat house and live and die by my to do list.

but 99.9% of the time, being a parent is not something you can put in a box and tie up with a bow. i am beginning to embrace the chaos. well, "embrace" might be a little strong. but kids get sick, bullies appear, hormones strike and mostly, general madness ensues. my eyes are finally opening (i liked it better in the dark).

how on earth are we supposed to take care of our families AND make the world a better place AND teach our kids about making their world a better place??? sometimes there just isn't time in the day to eat a healthy dinner, let alone hot glue a recycle sculpture project. 

here is where the easiest ACME SHARING activity comes into play. MODEL KINDNESS. it is so easy and most of us (you know who you are) do it anyway. when our children see us taking an extra millisecond to smile at the toll booth person, make idle chit chat with the grocery bagger or say nice things about the world around us, they are learning to be kind and positive.

it is so simple that it feels silly posting about it, but lately i have had NO time or interest to do anything extra and i couldn't help but notice how powerful and effective being nice (and sometimes faking it for the benefit of our little audience) can be.

Acme Library - The Teddy Bear

what a fantastic book to show little ones how powerful kindness can be. the story of a boy losing his bear, sees it now belongs to a homeless (and friendless) man, and forgetting his own loss and pain, decides to forfeit his feelings for someone else's happiness. 

to buy this book, see ACME LIBRARY on the right.

(this only works if you are on the acme sharing website)

Acme Birthdays - sock hop!!

here's an idea for a birthday party that will shake things up, put on a SOCK HOP for your child and their friends. 

disco, 50's or pop - whatever tunes rock your house will set the theme for the dance party.

invite the guests, in lieu of gifts, to bring new pairs of socks for children living in poverty. ask guests to wear crazy socks (i know it's not the most modern idea, but you can make it your own) and dance the day away.

need more ideas? how about a cake shaped like a sock? toe rings for party favors, pedicures on site for the moms, use xmas stocking templates to make brightly colored socks for hanging decorations or a matching game where kids have to find their mate.

to find recipients, please check:

operation school bell

kids in need

or your local shelter, temple or church

the lesson: it's not always all about them, even on their birthdays. 

***added bonus: you try dancing for 2 hours and staying awake! a nap is in their near future.

Dog Day Afternoon

today's field trip to the zoo reminded me that KIDS LOVE ANIMALS, ah, duh, meredith. and it made me think more about projects that would allow kids to feel connected to animals without going to africa on safari or investing in a llama farm.

my friend, stacy, told me about this great idea:

dress up some dogs for adoption day.

1.) either get some bandanas at the surplus store, or a yard of fabric at the fabric store from which you can cut bandana shapes.

2.) give your kids some puffy paints, glitter pens and adhesive jewels.

3.) ask them to make "signs" on these bandanas that will later be worn by parentally challenged pups.

they should say things like:

i'm lovable

i play catch

hug me

i love cuddles

great watch dog

wanna play?

we all know the power of advertising, and every little bit helps.

find a rescue near you

here's a link for petfinder.com

the lesson: you could give your kids the staggeringly scary statistics about stray animals, but that might freak them out. instead, focus on how they are helping a creature who can't really help themselves. this helps kids to feel very empowered.

***added bonus: the time you spend passing out the "necklaces" and helping set up the adoption might satiate their desire to take them all home - at least for this week.

last week my grandfather turned 100 years old - seriously, 100. it was remarkable. then, sadly, the very next morning he passed away. my kids were so lucky to have had a great grandfather, one filled with nothing but love for them. 

in showing our kids how to treat others with kindness and respect, an easy target is grandparents. they will be overjoyed with almost anything (time together, a picture drawn, a hand of "go fish"). another fun activity is to have your children come up with a list of questions to ask the grandparents, "what was your favorite candy as a kid?", "what was the worst job you ever had?", what's the most embarrassing thing that happened to you when you were my age?"

if your kids don't have grandparents near by or at all, it is very easy (and deeply appreciated) to ADOPT A GRANDPARENT and brighten up a person's day. just google "adopt a grandparent" along with the city you live in, and you will find a long list of participating retirement homes.

the lesson: it is sometimes forgotten, but so invaluable to treat the older generations with the respect they have earned. 

***added bonus: actually the mystery of what your child will get out of this experience is pretty exciting - the unknown...  and maybe a hard candy.

Shower With Love

i recently watched a news piece on the san fernando valley rescue mission driving around with a MOBILE SHOWER UNIT. homeless people line up to have a hot shower once a week. it was SO moving and one of those reminders that a little goes a long way in making people happy. for them, a fresh start to the week was all they needed to feel "human" again.

watch the video here 

i thought it might be fun to put together dopp kits for those in need of some freshening up. the DOLLAR TREE and 99 CENT ONLY stores are the place to hit. deodorant, mouthwash, toothpaste, toothbrush and a comb (or any variation on toiletries) would run you $5, pack them in a zip lock bag from your kitchen drawer and VOILA! you have just created a valuable package for someone living on the streets.

make one, make 20, decorate the bags, or not, you and your kids can spend as little or as much time as you want on a project like this one. pass them out, or, if you feel more comfortable, drop them off at a local shelter or church.

the lesson: kindness toward others, especially others in need, is a basic human value we need to practice as often as possible.

***added bonus: who knows, this could inspire even MY kids to brush their hair -stranger things have happened.

Acme Holiday - Valentine's Day

isn't it the cutest thing when your kids come home from school with a paper sack filled with valentines from their classmates? mine love to spread them all over the table to read and re-read them.

this year, the save the children organization has given us a meaningful alternative to the box of "scooby doo" cards (no offense, velma). save the children has made a box of 28 cards, all with great artwork from classic children's books; Olivia, Hugo Cabret, Piggie and Elephant to name a few. purchase this box for $25 (ok, a bit more than the scooby cards, but it's FOR A CAUSE!) and the proceeds will go towards the programs they support; literacy, medical assistance, and general aid inside the rural U.S.

order cards by february 4th to make sure you have them for V day.

here's the link for save the children 

the lesson: it isn't always just about us. i think. i hope.

***added bonus: not getting sucked into the "earth garbage" cycle, you know, buying super balls and little plastic toys to add to the envelopes, the ones that will be played with for 45 seconds and then get added to the landfills of the world for thousands of years to come.

Acme Birthdays - change the present

i have come to realize that "birthday party season" is not a season, but rather a euphemism for the over-whelmed to describe what is, in fact, the entire school year.

here is a website to help. CHANGING THE PRESENT is a great place to browse with your kids to pick out meaningful gifts for their friends.

buy flowers for a playground ($5), books for kids in need ($15), feed horses ($12) or buy toys for children needing aid in recovering ($20).

click here to "change the present"

the lesson: every chance to give is a chance to help.

***added bonus: not having to make that trip to the toy store, which inevitably winds up with you bringing home more stuff that your kids didn't need.

Dear Mr President

well, he's been in office for only a few hours, but why not have your child write to President Obama? seriously, what are you waiting for?

kidthing.com has created the "dear mr president project" where kids are invited to draw and/ or write to our new commander in chief. what a great chance for families to sit down and talk about our hopes and dreams for the future.

the mail in deadline is postmarked by january 27th (one week from today). don't forget to sign the submission form so that your child's letter is eligible for the "dear mr president project book" which will be available to purchase in early february.

kidthing.com

the lesson: power is not only in the hands of adults, kids have to know that their voice counts. in a world where children mostly feel small, this can help them feel as though they are heard and can make a difference. 

***added bonus: it's OBAMA, baby!!! what more bonus is there?

Call to Service

our new first-lady-to-be is a girl after my own heart. she's a mom of two, supports her busy husband, has understated style and wants everyone to give back. come on, we're 2 peas in a pod!

this monday, january 19th is DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR day and MICHELLE OBAMA'S day to "call to service" the entire country.

the m.o. for M.O. is to get everyone to do ANY kind of community service on monday, (which is also a school holiday, so we'll be looking for things to do). the idea is to "renew america together, one community at a time. it will take ordinary citizens working together with a common purpose to get this country back on track. this national day of service is an important first step in our continuing commitment." 

this is an exciting project and one i hope you will consider doing with your families. to find local activities and to learn more about this national day of service, check out the website:

usaservice.org

if you can't find anything that speaks to you, please browse the acme sharing archives with over 70 ideas for community service projects to do with your kids.

***extra credit - i would LOVE to hear from you. please let me know how you spent the day, how it affected your kids and what did or didn't work in teaching them the most important aspect of humanity: SHARING.

Day of the Jerk

it's a new year and time for resolutions and fresh starts.

we all want to be good people, be better, do better and look better.

well, i am SICK of it. i do "good" all the time and i have had it up to here.

i use canvas bags at the market, feed my kids soy nut butter, give to the homeless, write an endless stream of thank you cards and hold open doors every time i walk through one. i am not telling you this to pat myself on the back, i am telling you this because i am tired of helping. tired of trying to be a good person. it can be a real drain.

so today (maybe it was that time of the month, or a holiday too filled with kids home from school or too many relatives, or that i was attacked by a Lorikeet at the aquarium this morning who drew blood after pecking my ear- true story! see photo above) i decided to be a jerk. and eat a lot of ice cream in the middle of the day.

i didn't yield to let the car ahead of me in, i didn't stop to chat with the solicitors in front of whole foods and i didn't turn out lights when i left the room. i was feeling tired of doing "good".

and then it set in. i thought about it for a beat. now, i was feeling bad. and not just from too much ice cream. it was actually harder to be a jerk. it takes more effort and feels really crappy. if everyone felt and acted this way, we would live in a WORSE world than we already do. BUT... if everyone tried to do just a little bit better as a human, we could achieve greatness.

so, cranky tantrum over, ear still throbbing, i thought about it for a minute.

i realized that for some, it's about a strong belief in KARMA, for others it's about GOD and for more, it's just about right from wrong. for me, it's a lot about legacy. i want my kids to see how i behave in hopes that they will mirror that behavior. what do we leave behind when we are gone? did we leave this place better than we found it? did we help spread smiles or hope or laughs or kindness? make any one's life a little bit better? in the end that's all we can do. and that's why i will continue to model this in my home and for this blog. i have no idea if it is helping any of your families and i don't kid myself to believe that my subscribers are doing all these projects every week. BUT, if we all did just a little bit better, and showed our kids how it is easier to be nice, wow, what a wonderful world.

and not just at the beginning of a new year, but at the beginning of each new day.

wishing you all a happy, healthy and Lorikeet-free 2009.

Out With The Old

now that our kids have so much "bright new shiny" with which to play, what better time to clean out the "dark old dull" ?

it is SO hard for most kids (mine especially) to part with even the smallest bit of broken lego. now, with all the new holiday loot, finding an organized place is a real chore. help them clean out the toys, books and even winter clothes that they barely notice hanging around.

make piles of (or use colored post-its) for; 

MAYBE KEEP, GIVE AWAY and TRASH.

it will be hard to get them excited about the "give away" pile, but once you put on some music, eat some leftover xmas cookies or channukah gelt, they might get into the groove. 

OR

you can tell them that for every new item they got, they need to give one away.

the lesson: abundance is the road to ungratefulness ? (ok, i think i just made that up, but it seems right, doesn't it?). plus, talk to your families about how lucky we are to get new things while explaining that not all families have the same luxuries or something like that, only more eloquent. then go back to the MAYBE KEEP pile and start again.

***added bonus: more organization means less likely chance of stepping on an errant action figure with bare feet - youch!

*find a children's hospital for donating books and puzzles.

*stuffed animals can go to SAFE or project night night.

*bigger toys and warm clothes are great for local homeless shelters.

now you can thank your kids for, not only appreciating the things they have and keeping their toys organized, BUT MOSTLY for making a difference in another child's day.

Acme Holiday - Farewell Christmas Tree

with so much festive hoopla in the air, it's hard to believe it's almost time to deconstruct it all. once you have un-trimmed the tree, think about how you will dispose of it. here is a list from worst to best:

a.) if you put it in a large plastic bag, you can almost insure it will be thrown in a landfill and practically never decompose. 

b.) if you saw it up yourself, (my husband loves this part of the holiday, the one time a year he uses his electric saw) you can put it in your garden rubbish bin to give it a slightly better chance at being composted.

c.) the best option is to go to earth 911 to find out if there is a green pick up or drop off for recycle made especially for the post holiday clean up.

the lesson: our kids should know that since the tree brought so much happiness and light to our holiday (if only for less than a month), the least we can do is NOT trash the earth with the dried and needle dropping remains.

***added bonus: having a pretty responsible answer for your hard-core friends who 1.) drive 4 hours to chop down their own tree from a sustainable farm 2.) buy a seedling in a pot and then plant it in the yard or 3.) use the artificial tree year after year bragging about the carbon they have saved from the lack of transport. *all of which i always think we'll implement NEXT year.

Acme Holiday - Chanukah

so at our house, we celebrate everything (almost) and in order to keep it orderly, we get pretty rigid, cuz if you are anything like me, the thought of so many new toys makes you cringe.

here is how we do it:

nite 1.) a toy from us to our children.

nite 2.) pjs for everyone 

    and another set sent to the pajama program.

nite 3.) siblings exchange gifts. 

nite 4.) a book 

    with another copy of the same sent to milk and bookies.

nite 5.) present from aunt and uncle.

nite 6.) we write letters to each other and read them in turn.

nite 7.) just plain giving - the kids choose what and where.

(usually baking cookies and bringing them to the fire house)

nite 8.) a toy from grandparents - go out with a bang!

this gives them plenty to play with and enough about giving back so as not to shove it down their throats (i can do that all year). hope this helps as you lay out the holidays at your home.

ACME world gift guide

not done yet??? help the world wherever you'd like:

since the acme sharing company is all about sharing, giving and DOING as a family, please note that i am only giving you these "just send money" lists for the holidays. 

global giving

find a project by country and topic and find those who need a little help for as low as $10.

alternative gifts

send money for food, water or medicine around the world.

habitat for humanity

be a part of giving the gift of a home (without having to be oprah). starting at $10.

malaria no more

every 30 seconds a child dies of malaria! that is the most heart-breaking statistic. help protect them with bed nets, $10.

changing the present

browse for a cause that speaks to you; global human rights, disaster relief or microfinance.

i had to stop somewhere, but there are countless amazing organizations that can use your help. there are a few ways to incorporate your kids into the donation process:

 

1.) ask them what they feel strongly about, then surf the web.

2.) ask if they would like to contribute with money they have received.

3.) or perhaps they would like to give to a cause in lieu of a gift for themselves.

4.) youthgive and markmakers are places where you can give your kids an account and they can find the cause, a great idea for grandparents living out of town.

ACME Animal Gift Guide

still more shopping to do?  help animals.

wwf

not the wrestling federation, the world wildlife fund. adopt animals and help save endangered species. the polar bears are a popular gift.

gorilla fund

help the beautiful mountain gorillas in africa. see above photo and insert "Awww".

oxfam and heifer

both get animals to families in need. animals bring in alternate sources of income. *helping people and animals, bonus points.

lange foundation

save the life of a cat or dog with $75.

the gentle barn

saving horses and cows while teaching at risk youth about kindness and responsibility. *helping people and animals, more bonus points.

ACME Green Gift Guide

more shopping to do? help stop global warming.

adopt an acre

choose where in the world you would like to nurture nature.

green dimes

stop junk mail and thousands of trees from the touch of a chainsaw.

terrapass

for about the price of a tank of gas, you can offset the carbon emissions from your car for a year. next best thing to getting a hybrid.

plant trees

great gift for the person who has everything. little kids can get excited by this idea.

Buy One, Give Back One

here are a few gift ideas for giving to 1.) those who want and then giving to 2.) those who need. true, you most likely already know about these products, but just in case:

at TOMS SHOES when you buy a pair of shoes (that are super cute, btw) for children or adults, another pair will be sent to a child in need. between $34 to $48.

www.tomsshoes.com

the gift of light. BOGO solar powered flashlights at $39.00 gives one to you and sends one to the destination of your choice (developing country, military, etc.).

www.bogolight.com

and at a higher price point, ONE LAPTOP PER CHILD is the coolest organization. they are bringing computers to children in the third world while you get one too. $399.

www.laptop.org

***added bonus: last minute online shopping and helping the world all in a few keystrokes without even getting off your butt. no mall parking to deal with, no guilt that you only spent on your kids who didn't really need new stuff. win/win.

Acme Library - 3 holiday books

firstly, DRUMMER BOY, the best looking toy i have ever seen. i LOVE the illustrations from loren long. the story is an exercise in gratitude and love. very touching and with the happiest ending imaginable.

the next one, WHEN SANTA TURNED GREEN, is all about global warming at the north pole - melty, as you can imagine. cute and not scary. problem solving and christmasy.

and lastly, GREAT JOY, one that addresses homelessness in a very vague but powerful way (i know that sounds like it doesn't make sense, but when you read it with your kids, it does), this gorgeously rich book touches on it lightly enough so that you can give your own explanation. it opens the door for more conversation if you want to discuss it further.

*hope you will forgive this unbalanced representation of the holidays, but i couldn't find "acme sharing" worthy books on the subjects of hanukkah and kwanzaa, feel free to let me know if you've got some!

to buy these books, see ACME LIBRARY on the right

(this only works if you are on the acme sharing website)

Dear Santa...

this is amazing.

when your child writes a letter to santa claus and drops it in a BELIEVE MAILBOX in any MACY'S store, a dollar will be donated to the make a wish foundation!!!!

letters must be in envelopes stamped and addressed to:

SANTA - AT THE NORTH POLE.

letters should include your children writing about WHY they believe in santa.

the lesson:  including the wonder and magic of the holiday season into your traditions. and, of course, giving back - for free!

***added bonus: they were most likely going to write to him anyway, this is a great excuse to make it a special project and when they see his big red mailbox it keeps the hope alive and adds to the mystery and mythology all tied up with the spirit of christmas.

Chain of Command

starting to decorate for the holidays?  how about a KINDNESS CHAIN. great for wrapping around a tree or hanging from the dining room ceiling.

1.) cut strips of paper into 2" x 8.5" (basically a piece of construction paper sliced into 2" strips). use at least 2 different colors. depending on the holidays you celebrate, you can color coordinate (channukah = blue and white, xmas = green and red).

2.) grab your stapler and have a seat with your kids. 

3.) ask them to write on each strip an act of kindness they have performed, you can write it for them if they aren't yet literate. 

4.) bend the strip into a circle and secure with a staple. loop the following ones through the last one and keep going. see how long you can make it - you can even hold a length competition between siblings.

5.) when they are all out of loops, send them out into the world to do some more good deeds.

the lesson: showing them what the holiday spirit is really all about.

***added bonus: the money you can save on twinkle lights.

EXTRA CREDIT - if you use left over scraps of wrapping paper!!!

Gratitude Shmatitude

we are quickly approaching turkey day. a day of giving THANKS. in preparation for your family's holiday dinner, why not sit around the kitchen table for 30 minutes (more or less depending on you child's interest and attention span) and make a GRATITUDE ALBUM. let's not just TALK about being thankful, but pull out the craft box and DO!

ask your child to write on each page something for which they are thankful, draw and picture and move on to the next page. this can be in a journal, notebook or just papers you can later staple together. make this a new tradition at your thanksgiving dinner to share these books with the table.

this will give your kids time to sit and think of just the things for which they are grateful. you can even phrase it as "what are you happy about, what makes you feel good" or other basic ways for them to start categorizing their life.

the lesson: we often think about things we DON'T have or things we are frustrated about. it is not often we get to think only of the positive. 

***added bonus: not having to hear the whining about eating cranberry sauce, but rather hearing just the joy about the buttery mashed potatoes!

Acme Library - God's Dream

the great thing about this book is that is has zero religion and would work for every family. the God reference doesn't specify ANYTHING, other than some magical higher power who wants us all to be kind to each other.

perfect for the holidays - no matter which ones you celebrate.

to buy this book, see ACME LIBRARY on the right

(this only works if you are on the acme sharing website)

Acme Holiday - Veteran's Day

tuesday, november 11th, marks veteran's day. most schools are closed in observance, so here's how to spend the day with your kids...

locate a veteran's hospital near you:

this is the directory

chose one of the following, or make up your own:

bring flowers.

bake and drop off yummies.

bring a deck of cards and play GO FISH with a vet.

prepare a joke or song.

just go and meet some heroic people, shake their hand and thank 'em.

the lesson: teaching appreciation and acknowledgement of others makes a real difference in the type of people we are raising.

doll hairs and sense

we are on our way to change (yay!), but the financial crisis still looms - kids and money go together like peanut butter and jelly.

time to start teaching our kids about the mighty dollar. 

there are so many different ways that people look at allowance (chores vs. no chores), when to start giving it (i say first grade), but the simple fact is that kids can't learn about money if they don't have any.

a great rule of thumb is that whatever you decide to give them should be divided into 3 equal parts for spending, saving and sharing. (the sharing is for DONATING, in case you didn't get that) and as far as i'm concerned, the saving is for them to decide and when they don't save and they wish they had, they'll figure it out pretty fast.

here is a great article on the basics at CEOMOM.com

the lesson: it's all in their hands. doling out responsibilities will give them a chance to rise to the occasion. 

***added bonus: no longer feeling like a bottomless pit (wallet).

Vote For Hope

regardless of how you will be voting on tuesday, i am sure we can agree that our children deserve a future (and a present) filled with hope, prosperity and freedom.

if your family is excited about change, you can boogie down to this video.

Acme Holiday - Halloween!!!

trick or treat for UNICEF is in it's 58th year!!! 

they have raised over $140 million and saved god only knows how many teeth from cavities.

if you don't know this program, it's where kids ask neighbors for pennies in lieu of candy. money raised is then sent in to help support the very worthy programs in over 150 countries.

since our kids will be at carnivals, class parties and more, they won't, in any way, be deprived of candy this halloween. so trick or treating can become about something else. i am not above bribing my kids to trick of treat for UNICEF and i will buy them their favorite candies in return (is this the wrong message?).

get your boxes at participating IKEA, PIER ONE IMPORTS or HALLMARK stores or

download cute "wrapper" here and affix to any canister at home (i am using one that had bread crumbs).

lesson: we drink clean water, not all children do. unicef helps provide for the kids who need water, medicine and food. 

***added bonus: not hopped up on sugar, they might get to bed on time after an already over-stimulating day.

here's a link to read more.

Acme Library - Old Bear

simplicity, gratitude, reflection and a long nap to dream.

loving this book.

to buy this book, see ACME LIBRARY on the right

(this only works if you are on the acme sharing website)

Tug At Your Heart Strings

there are so many freakin' (forgive use of word freakin') things to remind our kids to do everyday. pick up your socks, put your dishes in the sink, brush your teeth, finish your homework, don't bite your brother (they say it's just a stage, here's hoping), pack your lunch, wash your hands, eat your vegetables. not necessarily in this order.

it is too easy to forget the simple simple important basics. "BE NICE", for example.

here's a new doohickey (forgive use of word doohickey) to do just that. the stringring company has made rings entwined with strings so as not to forget to be kind. you needn't purchase the silver version, just sit down at the kitchen table with your kids, a ball of twine and some hope.

the stringring website says:

"tying a string around your finger as a reminder is an ancient tradition thought to keep an idea from escaping - literally tying the idea to yourself. the string ring is a cue to remind yourself and those who notice it to be kind to one another, to do a kind act, say or even think something kind."

i hope it isn't UN kind to the stringring people to suggest that we make them the old fashioned way, hopefully they will see our intention of spreading kindness and KNOT get TIED up in the details.

Bake Sale

how about we pull together our kids and their friends to host an all american bake sale. yum. 

this is a fabulous site that gives you bake by bake instructions to throwing your own COOKIES FOR KIDS' CANCER sale.

it is so simple, click here to go to their site

at the very least, just go for it, put on a bake sale the way you do a lemonade stand and donate the money to them, but i like how they lay out the instructions and make you feel very much a part of something bigger and better than just you (i know, i am probably just speaking for myself).

the lesson: a delicious day of pigging out with friends can be so much more. there is information on the link above that will give you facts to use in talking with your kids about cancer. they should know the statistics and facts on medical breakthroughs (or, sadly, lack thereof).

***added bonus: more like added inches to my waist. added pounds to my scale. added cavities to my mouth.

Acme Library - It's Not What You've Got!

in teaching gratitude, graciousness and giving back, it seems like a good idea to also read this book with our kids. the subtitle is "lessons for kids on money and abundance". fantastic and simple approach to talking about "you aren't the stuff you have" or in some cases, the stuff you DON'T have. no matter where we fall on the socioeconomic food chain, subtle (or not so subtle) reminders of gratefulness and priorities can't hurt.

to buy this book, see ACME LIBRARY on the right, 

(this only works if you are on the acme sharing website)

Acme Birthdays - help kids celebrate

every kid deserves to feel special and celebrated on their birthday. to think that some parents can't provide that is just heartbreaking in the case of the child AND the parent. cheerful givers (yes, that is their name) is an organization that provides small gift bags to food pantries and shelters so that the children there can have a real birthday.

you and your kids can put together a gift bag filled with lots of small but festive items. a quiet afternoon with a short trip to target is a very do-able for all of us. who doesn't love a trip to target??? 

there is a list provided at the link, but you can pretty much use your noodle to create a bag that is appropriate for most children.

this is also a fun play date, group or even a birthday party activity.  

here is a link to cheerful givers with instructions for bags.

contact them if you'd like to send the bag directly to them or if they can put you in touch with a local shelter.

the lesson: our kids need to know that not everyone has the basics we take for granted, and if we CAN help, we SHOULD help.

Acme Holiday - Grandparent's Day

for years i have been giving my grandparents cards on grandparent's day only to find that they had never heard of it and expected nothing special (until the year i forgot). now most calendars printed in the usa include this ode to the older gen. well, it is upon us this sunday, september 7th.

another chance for your kids to be exposed to demonstrating kindness and gratitude. a hand drawn picture is nice, a framed photo is better but my favorite idea is this one:

have your child journal a day in their life. it can be photos glued into a book, or a video diary a few times throughout the day or a story that they write sharing the highs and lows of their universe. whether the grandparents live down the block or around the world, they will eat this up with a spoon.

the unconditional love of a grandparent is pretty significant, fostering this relationship is so valuable (free babysitting is also an incentive). if your child has none, there are countless lonely geriatrics living in your city. to find one click here and feel free to brighten the day of a stranger by showing any gesture of kindness (cookies, cards, a hand of go fish or just a chat).

p.s. chances are, your kids are back in school this week and another project is just not on your agenda. maybe you will get lucky and have parents with calendars printed overseas. 

Acme Library - 10 Things I Can Do...

a fun and graphic book for kids of all ages (mostly 8 and younger, in my humble opinion). touches on the basics we all know about helping the earth, but in a way that kids can get excited about - maybe because they have heard some of them before. i think it's a great gift.

to buy this book, see acme library on the right

(this only works if you are on the acme sharing website)

For (four) Eyes

as the end of summer arrives, there is no shortage of sunshine (thanks in part to global warming) and although we are still clinging desperately to our sunglasses, this is an easy activity.

lenscrafters has a program called GIVE THE GIFT OF SIGHT. if you drop off any reading or sunglasses to a local lenscrafters, they will use them to make a new pair of glasses for someone who otherwise couldn't afford some. so far, they have been able to help 6 million people see the world more clearly.

here is where you can read more about it

this is a great project for a DRIVE. get your kids to solicite glasses from friends and neighbors or even put up flyers at camp, school, church, temple, gymnastics class - whatever. there is so much power in a drive. i love a drive. i love the idea of the kids getting glasses (or whatever item your drive is about) and filling up a box. the pride they feel when they have so much more than they hoped for. the idea that a community can come together with SUCH LITTLE EFFORT and make a real difference. jeez, can you tell i am a fan of a DRIVE?

the lesson: talking to your kids about what it would be like to not see clearly and how that would effect your life. not be able to afford the medical care you need. not be able to participate in life the way you want. how difficult all of those things would be and how if we CAN help, why WOULDN'T we help?

A Dog's Life

this week i lost my dog of almost 12 years. it is nothing short of devastating. it has been an interesting (mostly hard) milestone for my 7 year old.

even children growing up without pets understand the love and happiness any animal can bring. 

i came across THE LANGE FOUNDATION which is an organization that can rescue a dog or cat from a city run animal shelter (which is eventually the end  for them). for a mere $75 you can give the gift of life. it's a great present for an animal lover and the lange foundation will send you (or the recipient, if this is a gift) a photo and short story of the animal you saved.

here's a link 

another great way for kids to help animals, which is a lot more active than sending a check, is to raid the linen closet. all animal hospitals are in constant need of towels and blankets. you know you have some that you will never use, get your kids to gather them up, wash and fold them and deliver them to your local vet/ clinic.

the lesson: nothing new, but helping those who can't help themselves is pretty significant, not to mention rewarding for all ages.

This Shirt...

true, true, this isn't a family activity, project or craft. i normally shy away from shopping as an act of teaching gratitude, however i LOVE this...

"this shirt saved a life" is the real deal. tiny revolutionary and africa aid foundation has produced this yummy soft t-shirt and will donate $20 from the purchase price of each one ($38.00) to the children in ghana. this money allows them to have one large and nutritious meal every day for a year.

as you may have noticed, the acme sharing company focuses on ways we can help in our own communities and it is important for kids to connect locally. this clearly isn't one of those, but at the end of the day, help is needed everywhere, don't cha think?

here's where to get one

***added bonus: perhaps the pride our kids will feel while sporting this will spark a desire to do more?

Bird Brain

it's getting pretty whiny around here. these last weeks of summer can really ride your last nerve. let's make them meaningful before that school bell rings.

here is a super cute "at home craft/ recycle/ be kind to animals" type of project.

the video link below is step by step instructions for building a birdhouse from a milk carton. it's not the newest idea on the block, but it will keep kids entertained. why not add to the fun by getting a hold of some binoculars and keeping a journal of all the visitors your house attracts. budding photographers can get in on the act as well.

as with ALL acme sharing projects, you can spend as much or as little time on it depending on the age and attention span of your offspring. 

here's how to do it - so easy!!!

the lesson: helping nature helps us all.

***added bonus: the sweet tweets coming in from the window make a happier home.

Clean Up Your Act

ewww, it's gross, stinky, unsanitary and god only knows what else, but kids can get REALLY proactive about cleaning up trash at the beach or the park. 

it is a strangely shocking thing to see a person throw trash out of their car window. hopefully our children's generation will never act this way, what with all the things we teach them about the earth, global warming and blah blah blah.

RULE #1 and ONLY - do not forget the rubber gloves from under your kitchen sink and make everyone wear them!!!

so grab a bag, lots of hand sanitizer and go.

come up with a game to get it done with flair. make up stories about who the people were who dropped these items and why, count the pieces and make a race out of who can get the most into the garbage bag or sing a jaunty rendition of oscar the grouch's I LOVE TRASH.

the lesson: without freaking out the kinder, talk to them about the effects of trash on animals; how a bird could choke on it, a squirrel can't digest paper or plastic. also share with them the pride of taking care of their world.

***added bonus: cleanliness. i'd say that's a bonus. 

here's oscar in all of his filth and glory

"Lemonade...that cool refreshing drink"

when life gives you lemons (read: bored kids halfway through summer break), make a lemonade stand. 

what is more all american summertime fun than a lemonade stand? ok, maybe a baseball game, an apple pie or a run through the sprinklers or a - forget it, i could go on for a while.

here are the tools for the next gen socially conscience lemonade stand:

start with the whole foods 365 brand lemonade from concentrate. it's ORGANIC and perfect for mixing.

here

9 oz clear biodegradable cups made of corn (they look like plastic party cups).

50 cups for $7

treecyle.com

recycled napkins from seventh generation are brown and look uber-chic with your child's "logo" colored on the corner.

napkins here

serve it all at this post-consumer use cardboard stand to make it oh so very professional

greenpartygoods.com

bake some all natural thin mint cookies (i have already supported the girl scouts PLENTY in this category so i don't feel guilty usurping their ground)

thin mints

now that you are ready for business, talk to your kids about where they want to donate their hard earned cash. for ideas on this, browse "markmakers"or "youthgive" (both on this site in earlier posts) to see kid friendly explanations of causes and needs.

the lesson: your kids earning their your own coinage? priceless.

***added bonus: so thirst quenching!

Acme Craft - Hat's Off To You

children undergoing chemotherapy and radiation lose their hair.  not a news flash.  they feel embarrassed.  they get cold when they are going to sleep.  they are miserable with their appearance.  they are susceptible to sunburn.  as if they needed more heartache.

a great project to do with your kids (and their friends) is to decorate hats and send them to these deeply deserving little heroes.

the lesson: helping others who need support - even if we don't know them (more "do onto others" stuff).

***added bonus: spending an afternoon crafting with your beautiful and healthy children!

here's a link to head huggers

here's a link to ronald mcdonald house

here's a link to st. jude children's hospital

***here's a link for organic cotton hats

Acme Library - One Hen

microfinance. this is a great way to introduce your kids (from a safe distance) to the needs in third world countries.

One Hen is a lovely book to help them grasp the idea. 

this is a true story and such an inspiration!

here's a link to kiva

here's a link to microplace

here's a link to village banking 

to buy this book, see acme library on the right

(this only works if you are on the acme sharing website)

Let It BEE

seeing as how most of us reading this post are parents, i must assume we have all see jerry seinfeld's BEE MOVIE at least 6 or 7 times. so we all know what happens if the bees stop pollinating the flowers - just basic apocalyptic disaster. 

the geniuses at HAAGEN DAZS have taken up honeybees as their cause. there seems to be an endangered group of these buzzing bad boys. the ice creamers have made up special packets of specific wildflowers that provide these guys with the nectar they need to keep on flying along.

send for your packet, stock up on Benedryl, and see what happens.

yellow and black is the new black.

the lesson: taking care of creatures that need our help since they are probably in danger because of us in the first place.

***added bonus: planting flowers is a fun summer activity to do with the kids outside, diggin' in the dirt, playin' with a hose. 

send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to:

Haagen Dazs Saves The Honey Bees Program/ Domino

50 francisco street suite #400

san francisco, california 94133

here's a link for more info helpthehoneybees.com

It's In The Mail

looking to keep your kids busy this summer - look no further than your mailbox.

set up a "postal system so as not to go postal"

kids can retrieve and SORT the mail.

ask them to throw the "penny saver" type junk mail right into the recycle bin. 

now ask them to find a box large enough for the catalogs. all summer, they can fill up the catalog box with everything you aren't interested in (which is pretty much all of it. or do you really need "the peruvian collection"?) and then they can list them so that you can stop them.

there are companies (listed below) that, on your behalf, will STOP these catalogs from coming to you. some of them even stop junk mail. happy dance happy dance!

the lesson: trees glorious trees! i'd rather have them than the latest mortgage payment lowering scam, you?

added bonus: you won't be tempted to just look at the "garnet hill" sale since you KNOW you don't need anything.

here's a link to CATALOG CHOICE

and GREEN DIMES

Acme Birthdays - YOUthgive

another idea for giving to charities on the web designed for kids (see "making your mark" on a previous post). 

when it's your child's birthday, set up an account for them, tell guests, friends and family about it. they will then (hopefully) add money to this account and your child can read about causes to choose where their money goes.

"discover what you care about. the youthgive menu is a place where you can choose and give to non-profits that speak to your hopes and values. all non-profits are profiled by students just like you"

the lesson: giving is better than getting. fingers crossed they'll believe you.

***added bonus: no new toys to have to untwist-tie from its packaging. no new toys, period.

here's a link to youthgive.org

Acme Library - The Golden Rule

open your tool box, take out the hammer and hit the nail on the head. this book is VERY on the nose. not complaining, it's wonderful! it explains how the golden rule is called something else in different countries and religions, but exists everywhere.

a simple story about a simple (but impossibly important) rule. every family should have this book in their collection.

to buy this book, see acme library on the right

(this only works if you are on the acme sharing website)

Acme Holiday - Armed Forces Day

another chance to show appreciation, this time toward people in real danger, risking their lives for our freedom.

this weekend is armed forces day, and although i feel impossibly lucky that the closest i have come to a battleground is the Barneys warehouse sale, this is a perfect opportunity to teach our kids how to show gratitude and thanks to VERY VERY DEEPLY deserving soldiers.

the men and women on the front lines are always happy to get mail. the websites below can help walk you through the making of a care package or they can simply tell you the best way to send a letter.

the lesson: i feel like a broken record, but we all know repetition is good for a developing mind. once more, with feeling, let's show our kids how to appreciate others and honor them.

***added bonus: you may walk away feeling like, in a teeny tiny small way, you, too, have served your country.

anysoldier.com sends to "any soldier" so you needn't know anyone personally serving.

here is a basic how to and what to for sending anything to the armed forces.

Take Out

picture this: squirming toddler in arms, holding hands with 6 year old, pushing VERY full grocery cart out of store, navigating my way through parking lot and speed bumps. homeless man walks up asking for help. sheepish smile and eye-contact avoidance as i say, "sorry" and keep juggling. less than a moment later, 6 year old says, "mom, i thought you were all about helping people".

YIKES! 

this just reinforced what i knew but mostly forget, which is that our kids look to us for clues on how to treat others.

SO, to rectify this shameful memory, i have a plan of action. care to join?

i'm taking my kids to a restaurant that sells GIFT CARDS. buying some, and then WITH MY KIDS, handing them to a person(s) who looks like they need some food. or i can get a few and leave them in the car for when those moments may arise.

if you want to incorporate your child's giving/ spending into this activity, ideas for their own money are; a penny jar (see "penny for your thoughts" post below), money from allowance (one third for saving, one third for spending and one third for donating is a good rule of thumb) or birthday cash all work well.

alternately, a simple but always effective plan, bake or bring leftovers to a person in your neck of the woods. BRING YOUR KIDS WITH YOU. pack it as if you were going to have a brown bag lunch, plastic utensils, a drink and napkins.

in both cases, if you or your children feel apprehensive approaching recipients, it is perfectly acceptable (and maybe even suggested) to stay in the car and pull up near them.

the lesson: need i say it? your kids will see you treating people in need with compassion. they WILL follow your lead.

***added bonus: you'll avoid being shamed (take it from one who knows).

here are some links to restaurants that sell gift cards:

baja fresh

subway sandwiches

koo koo roo (in los angeles only)

starbucks

coffee bean and tea leaf

domino's pizza

Village People

tuesday, may 6th, is TEACHER APPRECIATION DAY. true, it sounds like another hallmark fabricated holiday only to forget about now and be bathed in guilt later, but this one speaks to me. 

who else spends 8 hours of their day with children who are not their own? ok, well, yes, childcare givers do, too. which now brings me to the new and improved (and just invented!) TEACHER AND NANNY APPRECIATION DAY. there's no one more important to our families than those people who are members of the "village" that it takes to help raise our kids.

we've heard the stories of teachers paying for supplies out of pocket, or nannies with no health insurance. these are the folks whom we trust to love, nurture and teach our offspring. i think everyday should recognize and appreciate them! (brown nose alert)

ask your child to give from their heart; write a letter, make a card, bake a treat or just bring the symbolic apple to bestow upon these well deserving citizens.

the lesson: showing our kids appreciation toward others. if they see us doing this enough, little things they take for granted may soon be looked upon with gratitude. 

***added bonus: now that you have successfully remembered this holiday, you might feel less culpable when "grandparent's day" comes and goes.

Acme Holiday - Arbor Day

just off the heels of earth day comes yet another opportunity to talk nature with your kids.

with lunches to pack, diapers to change and homework to correct we're supposed to celebrate ARBOR DAY???? the idea alone might push you over the edge? not to worry, it's bark is worse than it's bite.

some simple suggestions to help you see the forest for the trees;

plant a tree
hug a tree
lay on the grass and admire a tree
***sit and read a story (The Giving Tree?) under a tree
climb a tree
pick fruit off of a tree
just be together in the presence of a tree.


the lesson: reminding our kids that so much of what we need in our lives comes from trees; paper, wood and a little something we like to use quite often... oxygen. the birds, squirrels and thousands of other living beings need them for their homes. so, they pretty much deserve their own day.

***my favorite, it's a "kill two birds with one stone" activity.

here's a link for how to plant a tree from TREE PEOPLE.

here's a link for how to climb a tree.

Acme Earth Day

there are SO many fantastic things to do with your kids to celebrate earth day (april 22). start by browsing all of the global warming projects on this site.

i thought it might be nice to give the earth a gift: LADYBUGS!

go to your local garden center. you can purchase a small cardboard container - the size of a pint of ice cream, for about $8 - filled with hundreds of live ladybugs that you and your kids can release into your yard or neighborhood park. the ladybugs help the earth by eating the mealy bugs and aphids (for those of us with brown thumbs, those are the bad guys). your kids will marvel as they fly all around making it feel as though you are in wonderland! and isn't that what it should always feel like when you're a kid?

the lesson: the earth takes care of us; gives us parks, trees, beaches. we can't just take and not give. it's a two-way street.

***added bonus: bugs crawling all over you that is actually somewhat pleasurable.

here's a link for ladybug facts and ordering

Acme Library - Ordinary Mary

i love to post projects that can be as long or as short as YOU want them to be. however, let's face it, even if you wanted to spend all the time in the world baking dog biscuits and finding a shelter to whom you can deliver, most days we have ZERO extra time.

BUT... there is always time for a bedtime story.

here is another favorite which shows kids the power of one small gesture, it's chain reaction and how easy it is to make a difference, "ordinary mary's extraordinary deed".

to buy this book, see acme library on the right
(this only works if you are on the acme sharing website)

Treasure Hunters

talk about REUSE...

take your child to a garage sale, salvation army, antique store, goodwill, flea market, whatever. tell them you are on a treasure hunt. you can set out looking for something specific or find whatever catches your eye and make up a story around it: who used to own this? what happened? how did it find it's way to where we found it? it sounds really corny, but trust me on this one, people, it is a TREASURE of an activity. and word to the wise, say "treasure hunt" as much as humanly possible for the effective buildup!

this was a huge hit at my house and the crappy "gold" pocket watch we found for $10 has become a cherished item. plus, there is the new found urgency to learn to tell time.

the lesson: one man's trash is another kid's treasure.

***added bonus: the plastic play sets from target, made in china, with their twist twist twist ties, that your kids are interested in for 2 days, who needs 'em?

here's a link to finding locations to the salvation army near you

Out To Lunch

as we get closer and closer to living a greener and greener life, (change light bulbs, check. install solar panels, check), here's a helpful item. if your child brings lunch to school, you have an idea of just how many plastic ziplocks are floating around the landfills.

lunchopolis offers this: no pvc. no lead. no leeching. no garbage. no huge selection of super cute patterns, but i guess you can't bite the hand that feeds. we all have to make sacrifices, no?

the lesson: nothing you haven't already heard; reduce, reuse, recycle.

here's a link to lunchopolis.com

Funny Pages

april fool's is coming up and who likes pranks more than kids? well, nobody. you can probably hear, all the way at your house, how hard my son laughs at "america's funniest home videos". but instead of filming the baby eating dog food, here's an idea for some good clean fun (with no damaging photographic evidence).

your child can author their own joke book. they can write their favorites or make up a few, color in some pages, staple and voila! instant first edition. we all know plenty of people who could use some laughs. how about giving it to someone who is sick? or anyone in a senior center? or the frowny-downy dry cleaner in your neighborhood?

the lesson: spreading smiles is contagious - and it doesn't cost anything to be nice (or funny).

***added bonus: knock knock. who's spending time with their kids that requires silliness?

here's a link for some jokes for kids

Acme Holiday - Easter

in honor of easter and the story of the loaves and the fishes, let's spread the loaf, people. sure there are bunnies, eggs and cadbury chocolates to partake in, but this is a little bit less obvious. at SPREAD THE BREAD, kids are encouraged to bake a loaf of bread and wrap it up with notes of gratitude. this gift is then given to ANYONE your child feels deserves it; police officer, librarian, trash collector, coach - whomever!

there are thousands of bread recipes to be found online or you can go the "cliffnotes" version by picking up a frozen pre-made loaf in the freezer section of any market.

the lesson: it's so easy to show thanks and support to people who have earned it. when your child sees the intense impact a simple gesture can make, they might be motivated to act in a "giving" and "grateful" way more often. and really, that's the whole point, isn't it? or most of the point, anyway.

***added bonus: warm fresh bread out of your oven slathered in butter??? please, like you're not going to bake another one for yourselves?


here's a link to spread the bread for more details

here's a link for a simple bread recipe for kids

Acme Holiday - St. Partick's Day

not much "giving back" in the traditional st. patty's day activities of searching for a pot of gold or drinking shamrock shakes, so here's another thought. yes, it's drastic, yes, it's mostly for boys, and yes, most of you won't do it BUT, here goes...

the st. baldrick's day foundation organizes head shaving to raise awareness and funds for kids with cancer. your child can be a "shavee" to show their support for this cause. log onto the site to find the allocated barber in your neighborhood. before the buzz, go online for details and have your child solicit donations from family and friends. look, at least the weather is getting warmer.

the lesson: your child could have a deeper level of understanding for chemotherapy patients as they go through this process. it might touch them in a way neither of you could imagine and quite possibly send them on a quest to help find a cure in our lifetime. for example.

***added bonus: no more fighting about washing his hair.

here's the link to the st. baldrick's foundation

One Small Step

mmmm, ahhhh, spring is in the air. smells a bit like... rotten crocs from last summer???

say what you will about crocs, yes, unattractive, yes, ubiquitous, yes, middle-american children everywhere running around in them, but they really serve their purpose. cheap (ish), slip on, waterproof and ALMOST indestructible. now that we are spring cleaning and gearing up for the warmer months, here is the place for those shredded crocs that haven't seen sunlight in months. SOLES UNITED will take old worn out pairs and recycle them into new, wearable ones to send to children in need.

the lesson: waste not want not?

***added bonus: once you're already back there in the dark corners of your kid's closet, you might find some treasure. not sure what, but that's what makes it an added bonus.


here's a link: "soles united" for info and drop off locations

Acme Library - Do Unto Otters

if it's the LAST thing i do, i am going to teach my kids to understand karma and the golden rule, dammit! here is a fun book that doesn't take it too seriously.

to buy this book, see acme library on the right
(this only works if you are on the acme sharing website)

Pen Pal Picasso

are you ready for the most basic, meaningful and fabulous project?

your child draws or paints an 8 x 11 piece of paper. it must be 2D to lay flat for shipping purposes. they (or you) must write FOR MY FRIEND, LOVE, "your child's name". it's that simple. it can be as elaborate or basic as time permits, or interest holds. pack up the art, a self addressed stamped envelope and photo of the artist (optional). Art2Heart will hand deliver it to an orphan living in India. that child will then reciprocate the gesture!


the lesson: this is the world's simplest giving project. it's almost embarrassingly easy. in fact, if your family hasn't yet begun the journey of philanthropy - this is the perfect place to start. when your child receives their picture in return, sit back and watch. this is the part where you can see them GET it. it all falls into place and the world becomes a small and wonderful place where they feel as though they have made a difference. because they have.


here's a link: Art2Heart

History Lesson

in honor of president's day, how about throwing a birthday party?
wait, wait, hear me out.

after dinner, gather your family, put on party hats, blow up balloons, heck, even bake a cake and blow out the candles if you like. now that you are all together, share with your kids the important deeds WASHINGTON and LINCOLN left behind; washington's declaration of "i will not tell a lie" and lincoln's tireless efforts to abolish slavery. those two topics alone can fill the dining room with conversation about kindness, equality and karma. subjects that can easily relate to today's playground shenanigans.

the lesson: those who don't know their history are doomed to repeat it.

***added bonus: what? birthday cake isn't enough for you ???

Throw 'Em A Bone

bow wow wow yipee yo yipee yay. bake homemade dog biscuits with your kids, they can shape them into whatever they'd like! then find a local shelter where you can drop them off, or hand them out at a dog park, adoption or to friends. friends who have dogs, that is.

2 cups whole-wheat flour
1 tbsp baking powder
1 cup peanut butter - chunky or smooth
1 cup milk

preheat oven to 375F. mix flour and baking powder, set aside. in another bowl mix peanut butter and milk, then slowly add dry ingredients. place dough on a lightly floured surface (this is the part kids love) and knead dough. roll out and shape with cookie cutters or freehand. bake 20 minutes - be careful as they burn easily. cool and store in an airtight container.


the lesson: i think it's sometimes easy for kids to relate to animals. they seem to have intense feelings about pets (even those that are not their own) who might be lost or hurt or homeless. if we see a sign posted in the neighborhood for a lost animal, my son insists we drive around looking. while you bake, it would be easy to talk to them about showing kindness to others, be they 2 legged or four.

here's a link: find your closest shelter