Simple Lunch Ideas for Kids

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September 17, 2020 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Back To School, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Recipe, Social Media

Quick and easy. That’s my motto. Follow these Simple Lunch Ideas for Kids at school, at work, or at home. Many on the go lunch ideas including wraps, pinwheels, sandwich sushi, corn dogs, pigs in a blanket, quesadillas, and other kid favorites, you can’t miss!

Simple Lunch Ideas for Kids

Whether you’re homeschooling or sending your kids to school this year, one thing rings true. Busy moms need simple lunch ideas for kids that keep kids well-fed and happy without taking up too much time in the kitchen. We’ve got you covered with lots of great ideas that go beyond basic sandwiches with deli meat or PB&J (though you’ll still find some yummy sandwiches in the mix).

Our School Lunch Planner can help you keep track of which recipes you want to make. It includes a spot to keep a running shopping list and pantry inventory, so you’ll be able to make your grocery list fast every week.

Don’t miss our School Lunch Hacks for tips and tricks on making your kids’ school lunches AMAZING.

With wraps, pinwheels, sandwich sushi, corn dogs, pigs in a blanket, quesadillas, and other kid favorites, you can’t miss! Let’s dive into the list of 22 simple lunch ideas for kids. Hope you’re hungry!

Simple Lunch Ideas for Kids

This sandwhich has all the healthy ingredients. Make our easy peasy Peanut Butter, Banana, Apple, Cinnamon, & Raisin Face Sandwich. With our without the face, it is sure to be a hit!

Take your grilled cheese sandwich to the next level by making Pizza Grilled Cheese. It’s a little more fun and convenient than baking a pizza from scratch, but you still get all those pizza flavors you love. You could even sneak in some peppers and tomatoes if your kiddo likes them. | Easy Budget Recipes

Walking Tacos aren’t just for enjoying around a campfire or at a party. Kids will get a kick out of having these on a normal weekday. Just brown and season your taco meat, provide individual bags of chips and your favorite taco toppings, and you’re all set. | Frugal Coupon Living

If your kid loves PB&J, you need to stock your freezer with these DIY Uncrustables. They’re a fraction of the price of the store-bought version, and they’re just as delicious. | Princess Pinky Girl

Stop right there, we have another homemade DIY Uncrustables Recipe on Frugal Coupon Living. This one square and with Grape Jelly!

These colorful Veggie Pinwheels are sure to delight your hungry family at lunchtime. They’re stuffed with crisp veggies and ranch-flavored cream cheese; all rolled up in a spinach wrap. Substitute regular or wheat tortillas if your kids aren’t into the spinach ones. | Dinner at the Zoo

Visit Frugal Coupon Living’s Hidden Veggie Recipes for Kids & Picky Eaters too!

Ditch the breading, and make Grilled Chicken Tenders instead. Aside from the time the chicken tenders need to marinade, these tenders can be made quickly and easy. Serve with grilled veggies, pasta salad, or fresh veggies. | Nourish Plate

Mini Broccoli Quesadillas are just the right size for little ones’ hands. They’re easy to make, but you can feel good that they’re really nutritious, too. Any food that encourages kids to eat more veggies is a win! | High Chair Chronicles

Pigs in a Blanket are a classic and simple appetizer, but they make great lunches for kids, too. You can make them super simple and serve with ketchup, as they are in this recipe, or add herbs, poppy seeds, etc., and serve with different sauces. | Damn Delicious

You can make English Muffin Pizzas in under 20 minutes. They’ll quickly become a lunchtime favorite, and they’re easy on the budget, too. Add olives, peppers, or mushrooms for children who like them. | The Best Ideas for Kids

Encourage the kids to get in the kitchen to help you make these Mini Chicken Quesadillas. They’re delicious, easy, and kid-friendly. To make this even easier, pick up a rotisserie chicken rather than cooking one yourself when you’re in a time crunch. | High Chair Chronicles

Make Homemade Spaghettio’s instead of serving the canned stuff. It only takes about 10 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook, so it’s pretty easy, and you can feel good knowing all the ingredients that have gone into it. | Strength and Sunshine

Mac and Cheese Bites are a fun, portable way to enjoy mac and cheese. They’re perfect for your kids’ lunchboxes if they’re going to school this year, but they’re just as yummy eaten in the comfort of your home. | The Best Ideas for Kids

Looking for more easy air fryer recipes? These Air Fryer Pizza Rolls are just the ticket. They’re tasty, wholesome, and super kid-friendly. The pizza rolls are made with sauce, pepperoni, and cheese, but feel free to customize them with your favorite pizza toppings. They’re ready in about 25 minutes, including prep and cook time. | Recipes from a Pantry

See also Frugal Coupon Living’s Air Fryer Recipes for Beginners and Air Fryer Cheat Sheet.

Grilled Chicken Wraps are sure to satisfy any chicken fanatic. They’re the perfect summer lunch, but you can make them all year long, too. If you don’t have time to grill or cook your own chicken breasts, sub rotisserie chicken, or pre-grilled strips. Easy peasy! | Little Sunny Kitchen

Regular sandwiches are BORING, but sandwiches served differently are fun and exciting! Enter these Sandwich Sushi Rolls—your favorite deli meat + cheese + veggies for a bit of crunch. Don’t they look delicious? | Eating Richly

These Corn Dog Mini Muffins (as seen in our Winner Super Bowl Snack Recipes) are basically corn dogs without the fuss. You’ll get more of that delicious yellow cornbread, which has to be my favorite part. And if you don’t want to make cornbread mix from scratch for these, you could always pop the hot dogs in some Jiffy mix to speed things up. | Damn Delicious

These Pizza Pancakes are a little bit of breakfast and a little bit of dinner all in one fun dish. They’re gooey and cheesy when you pull them apart, and they’re just perfect for dipping in marinara sauce. | Happiness is Homemade

Everyone needs to know how to make an Easy Pasta Salad. This recipe is simple and versatile. Make the recipe as is, or substitute whatever leftover meats and veggies you have on hand. To save time, you can use your favorite packaged Italian dressing instead of making your own. Make a big batch, though, because it’s irresistible, and you want enough to last a few days! | Savory Tooth

It may sound like an odd combination, but if your kids like to experiment in the kitchen, they may be right on board with these PB Apple Chicken Salad Wraps. Cooked chicken is combined with chopped apple, grapes, peanut butter, and Greek yogurt for a whole new take on chicken salad. | Love Bakes Good Cakes

With pre-cooked meatballs, crescent roll dough, marinara sauce, cheese, and herbs, you can have a batch of Meatball Cheese Bombs ready in under 15 minutes. How good do those sound? Serve them with a salad, and you have a simple no-fuss lunch everyone will love. | Sizzling Eats

Pizza Sliders are a great dish for potlucks, but you can make a couple of batches and refrigerate or freeze them for quick lunches during the week, too. Standard pepperoni and cheese sliders will work best for most kids, but feel free to sneak some veggies in there, like peppers, onions, mushrooms, or even olives. | Sugar Spice and Glitter

Hummus, spinach, deli turkey, and cherry tomatoes (with a couple more ingredients) come together to make this Healthy Spinach Turkey Wrap that you can make in about two minutes. It can easily be a gluten-free meal by using gluten-free tortillas. | Living Well Mom

If all else fails, you simply can’t go wrong with delicious and simple Cheese Quesadillas. Use one type of cheese or a combination of cheeses to switch things up. Serve with sour cream, guacamole, pico de gallo, or salsa. | Isabel Eats

Pin to Pinterest this list of simple lunch ideas for kids so you’ll have a meal idea ready the next time you need a quick meal that can’t miss.

Get organized! Our School Lunch Planner can help you keep track of your kids lunch ideas. It includes a spot to keep a running shopping list and pantry inventory, so you’ll be able to make your grocery list fast every week. Comes with free lunchbox notes too! Pin to Pinterest.

Also visit our Hidden Veggie Recipes for Picky Eaters. Pin to Pinterest.

WHAT’S TRENDING? Looking for a few engaging activities? Grab Minute to Win it Games – Traditional, Holiday, Group, and more! Use these fun activities in the office, classroom, or at your next birthday party.

Easy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

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July 12, 2021 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Printable, Recipe, Social Media

Looking for a fall breakfast recipe? This incredibly easy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Recipe will have the entire family asking for more. Best of all, it includes simple ingredients including canned pumpkin puree and Pillsbury crescent rolls. No yeast. No flour. Enjoy!

Easy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

I was first introduced to Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls by the Pioneer Woman. I heard many rave about her pumpkin pie cinnamon rolls only a few ingredients stood out – flour and dry yeast. You guys, I have five kids. I want a tasty pumpkin recipe without all the work of making my own dough. If I was going to replicate this fall breakfast recipe, it was going to have to be easy!

It wasn’t hard to for me to twist this recipe up. Instead of making my own dough recipe, I was going to com in prepared (you all know I love my family-approved Pillsbury Crescent Rolls Recipes.) Thus, I come to you with some Food Network Ree Drummond inspiration and an Easy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with homemade cream cheese frosting and no yeast!

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect breakfast for Thanksgiving! Serve with our Breakfast Casseroles for a Large Crowd. You could reserve them during a Friendsgiving and add Pumpkin Ice Cream.

Won’t you join me on this cooking adventure as we create a pumpkin breakfast, pumpkin lunch, pumpkin dinner and of course, pumpkin dessert (24/7 – why not!?!)

Homemade Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients

For your homemade Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, Pillsbury crescent rolls will be your base. Grab two packages of 8 count Pillsbury crescent roll dough. Also grab the following.

For the Rolls

2 packages of 8 count crescent roll dough, refrigerated
½ cup canned pumpkin puree
1/c cup brown sugar
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice (we love this brand)
½ cup powdered sugar

Don’t you love that Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Rolls with no yeast?

Cream Cheese Frosting

1 8 oz package of cream cheese, room temperature
4 tablespoons of salted butter, room temperature
½ cup of powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract (we have been using this one forever!)

Baking Supplies

Baking Dish
Pipping Bag (or cut Ziploc bag)
Mixing Bowl
Optional: Stand Electric Mixer or Hand Held Mixer

Save this recipe for later. Print your recipe and add it to your recipe box or recipe binder! This is my favorite Recipe Binder – I get tired of printing the same recipe over and over. A binder keeps me organized and gives me a place to store my recipes.

Easy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Author: Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living

Print Recipe

Ingredients

Scale

For the Rolls

2 packages of 8 count crescent roll dough, refrigerated
½ cup canned pumpkin puree
1/c cup brown sugar
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
½ cup powdered sugar

Cream Cheese Frosting

1 8 oz package of cream cheese, room temperature
4 tablespoons of salted butter, room temperature
½ cup of powered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

Baking Supplies

Baking Dish
Pipping Bag (or cut Ziploc bag)
Mixing Bowl
Optional: Stand Mixer or Hand Held Mixer

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preparing the Cinnamon Rolls

First, unroll the packages of Pillsbury crescent rolls and press on the seams of the dough to seal up. You’ll have one full sheet from each crescent dough package.

Next, evenly spread the canned pumpkin puree across the dough rectangles, leaves ¾ inch untouched on the edges.

Take your brown sugar and sprinkle across the pumpkin spread. Do the same with the pumpkin spice.

Once complete, start to roll up the dough at the shorter end and pinch the seams to seal well. Repeat with the second roll.

Next, slice the rolls into 8 rounds and place into a greased baking pan.

Bake at 375 degrees for 20-24 minutes or until golden brown.

Preparing the Cream Cheese Frosting

While baking, prepare the frosting.

First, blend together cream cheese and butter in a mixing bowl.

Mix in powdered sugar and vanilla. Set aside or transfer to a piping bag (or Ziploc with one corner trimmed off) to drizzle frosting when rolls are ready.

Once rolls finish baking, allow to cool before adding frosting.

Serve warm and Enjoy!

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How to Make Homemade Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees.

Preparing the Cinnamon Rolls

First, unroll the packages of Pillsbury crescent rolls and press on the seams of the dough to seal up. You’ll have one full sheet from each crescent dough package.

Next, evenly spread the canned pumpkin puree across the dough rectangles, leaves ¾ inch untouched on the edges.

Take your brown sugar and sprinkle across the pumpkin spread. Do the same with the pumpkin spice.

Once complete, start to roll up the dough at the shorter end and pinch the seams to seal well. Repeat with the second roll.

Next, slice the rolls into 8 rounds and place into a greased baking pan. This is our favorite cinnamon roll baking pan.

Bake at 375 degrees for 20-24 minutes or until golden brown.

Preparing the Cream Cheese Frosting

While baking, prepare the cream cheese icing.

First, blend together cream cheese and butter in a large mixing bowl. This is our favorite Hand Mixer.

Mix in powdered sugar and vanilla. Set aside or transfer to a piping bag (or Ziploc with one corner trimmed off) to drizzle frosting when rolls are ready.

Once rolls finish baking, allow to cool before adding frosting.

Serve warm and Enjoy!

Our Pinterest community and I would love to see how this worked out for you. Share your final Pioneer Woman Inspired Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Rolls. Leave a comment and/or add a photo here on Pinterest!

See our Baking Hacks and Tips – Time Savers and Short Cuts. You can even download our Baking Hacks Cheat Sheet.

Pumpkin Recipes for Fall

We have plenty more Pumpkin Recipes for Fall! Add pumpkin flavor to all things breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert!

Save these Easy Fall Recipes using Canned Pumpkin Puree. Pin to Pinterest.

Also enjoy these Comforting Fall Dinner Recipes the entire family will love. Pin to Pinterest.

Roar-tastic Dinosaur Party Ideas for a Party-saurus

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August 15, 2022 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Birthday, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Social Media

Ready for a roar-tastic dinosaur birthday party for your paleontologists? We have ~~prehistoric~~ dino-mite dinosaur party ideas for birthday boy or girl party-saurus. From decor, foods, to cakes, crafts, activities, games and more. Enjoy these dinosaur themed birthday party ideas.

Dinosaur Party Ideas

Did you know the meaning of the word dinosaur. The word actually comes from the ancient Greek language with deinos meaning terrible and sauros meaning lizard. If celebrating these awful reptiles land dwellers would be celebrating their 65 millionth birthday. Instead of celebrating these giants, why don’t we celebrate our little paleontologist who study them, our kids

These roar-tastic dino party ideas are perfect for any party-saurus. We share some of the best dinosaur party games, dinosaur activities, dinosaur party foods, easy cake ideas and more. It will be a party you will remember for millions of years!

Dinosaur Party Decorations & Decor

Dinosaur party supplies do not have to be costly. Do what you can do stay with the theme but do what you can to make your own party decor.

This has to be one of my favorite dinosaur tablescapes because it is so easy to do and incredibly simplistic. Sometimes less is more. | Catch My Party

Dinosaur Table Decorations

You can buy a low-cost helium balloon tank if you want to blow your own balloons.

Invite your archaeologist friends. Make these Roar-tastic Dinosaur Invitations creating a paper mache egg. Make extra eggs for a dinosaur egg hunt or hot potato party game. | Oh Happy Day

Perfect Dinosaur Party Decorations are these adorable dinosaur yard signs warn everyone about extra large roaming reptiles. We love these ideas below. | Kara’s Party Ideas

Dinosaur Signs

These mini party hats for dinosaurs will have no one feeling left out of the festivities. Purchase a mini party hat set for animals here or a dinosaur + hat + present cake topper here.

Such and adorable idea for this party. Grab blow up dinosaurs and add them to the party décor. We love the addition of the dinosaur party hats, balloons, pom-poms and of course the party like it’s 190,000,099 BC Marquee. | American Greetings

About to have a tree year old? Host an adorable three-rex birthday party for a boy or girl! You can grab this set tree-rex party décor for boys or even a pink tree rex birthday party girl party décor.

Dinosaur Party Decor

Dinosaur Party Games & Crafts

Keep the kids from getting bored, with these shopable Dinosaur Party Games. Download eleven Dinosaur Themed Party Games including directions and supply list.

You can put together creative dinosaur party games and crafts to keep the kids active during the party. Classic games like pin the tail turn into Pin the Tail on the Dino. Or gather a few of your own supplies to create your own ideas for activities and fun.

Go old school with a homemade dinosaur piñata . This DIY Dino Egg piñata is the perfect addition to any prehistoric dino birthday party. It is fun and low-cost to make and even more fun to whack! | Parties with a Cause

Using an egg carton and cupcake liner, have fun making these dino-mite dinosaur crafts. | Still Playing School

Have a dinosaur dig station. You could fill up a kiddie pool with rocks, pebbles, sand or rice. Give kids a paint brush and sifter for paleontology discovery. You could add some dinosaur bones or even dig for candy! | Inspired by Family

Before your dig turn safari hats into paleontologist hats. Use dinosaur stickers so everyone can personalize their hats. | David and Leanna

Create a minute to win it party game with these handmade T-Rex Shoes. | Get Your Holiday On

You can always go low-budget and wallet friendly with these free Dinosaur coloring pages. Lay them out and let them be a self directed activity. | Super Coloring

Dinosaur Birthday Party Food & Cakes

We found some of the best dinosaur party foods, desserts and cakes to fit a dino themed party.

Use a dino toy (that can double has dinosaur party decor) to create footprint cookies. | Gathering Beauty

When decorating your table, have adorable dinosaur place markers that say herbivore and carnivore (you could add omnivore or sweetivore too – see what we did there?) | Pretty My Party

Another idea is to hard boil eggs into dinosaur eggs! | Pink Stripey Socks

These prehistoric dinosaur dirt cups are a tasty treat. Made with chocolate pudding and crushed OREOS cookies, this layered dessert can be used as a non-traditional dinosaur birthday cake. | Made to Be a Momma

Dinosaur Dirt Cup Accessories

This paleontologist’s birthday has some great Dinosaur Party Food. | Kingsbury Brook Farm

Dinosaur Party Food

Dinosaur Bones – Pretzels (try this Pretzel Bone recipe)
Dinosaur Scales – Chips
Dinosaur Swamp – Guacamole
Dinosaur Claws – Claw Shaped Cucumbers
Tyson’s Dinosaur Chicken Nuggets
Pterodactyl Nests – Use this Nest Recipe using Edible Rocks
Stegosaurus Spikes – Triangular Shaped Cut Watermelon
Dinosaur Toe Nails – Bugles

I wanted to provide you with an easy dinosaur birthday cake you could make. Put your money toward other expenses like decor that can then be used as toys for the kids or dinosaur party favors. Instead, make your own cake to have a low-cost birthday party. Make a rectangular chocolate sheet cake. Decorate with green and chocolate frosting. Use dinosaur figurines to decorate. | You Pinspire Me

Dinosaur Cake Decorations

In addition to the Space Party Games, also take a look at these 50+ Kids’ Party Games – indoor, outdoor, night, birthday.

For many of these party ideas, use our Rockin’ Geology Rock Party Ideas. Pin to Pinterest.

Looking for more birthday party ideas for boys and girls? Take a look at these themed birthday ideas.

You can keep parties small or even celebrate small celebrations every six months. Take a look at these…

Enjoy another year!

Home Staging Checklist, Tips & Ideas

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August 23, 2020 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Crafts, DIY, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Printable, Social Media

Clean, declutter and depersonalize with this printable Home Staging Checklist PDF. Follow these Home Staging Ideas, Tips and Hacks to cheaply improve home value, make a space warm and inviting, and welcome buyers providing a space they love and want to live!

Home Staging Checklist

So… we did it! In five years, we moved four times. You might think we are a military family, but we aren’t. You might think we are crazy, well we are! Our first move was from Florida to Virginia. Our next three moves took place in Virginia. The process was very different in each state. While the process of changing utilities, closing accounts, and hiring movers was the same, I found the home staging process to actually be far from the same.

We (currently) live outside the District of Columbia where land value is very high. Not only is the cost of land quite extreme, the market moves very quickly. Because of this, many people do not stage their home. We learned this having searched for homes well over a (combined) year. Having come from Florida, I decided to treat my Virginia Home Staging ideas just like I had in Florida. With this mindset, my husband and I made generously over five figures on our last house in just 3 years time.

Home Staging Printable and Tips

—> Get your Home Staging Checklist PDF or read Home Staging Tips & Ideas below.

Let me share my Home Staging Tips with you and what I learned for selling a home while making only a few low cost weekend home improvements.

See Home Staging Tips & Ideas

What do I need for home staging?

The first thing you need before selling your home is a friend (or a realtor.) Someone needs to walk through your home with a second set of eyes. It’s easy to get offended with changes in your home decor, but don’t take it personally. Take it as if a buyer was walking through your home and trying to envision themselves living there.

Second, get ready to declutter and depersonalize. Consider renting a storage unit and adding additional clutter or asking a friend to store some things in an extra room they might have. Another idea is to go ahead and start packing and rent a POD to store your personal effects until you move. We found this a great solution for staging and also for moving many of our personal items.

For traditional home staging, consider the following items…

Vase of flowers – Flowers are warm, bring positive emotions, and can add color to a space or room.
Mirrors – These can replace family prints, open up smaller spaces, and bring light to a room.
Bowl of fresh fruit – Fruit allows visitors a healthy bite, also bring organic element to the home.
Pillows – Pillows bring a pop of color and life to a master bed or worn living room couch.
Throw blanket – Blankets will bring a place of warmth and intimacy. They invite a buyer to feel cozy and at home.
Indoor plants – Faux is fine. Add to places you want to stand out ad they attract buyers eyes.
Lights – Add dimmers or grab some cheap lamps at second hand stores to brighten a room. Turn on all lights before you leave for a showing.
Flameless candles – Candles add a glow and make a place feel warm.
Curtains or drapes – Get rid of unsightly blinds and window treatments and add long drapes which can bring height to a room and space.
Baskets – Baskets are perfect for holding pillows, rolled blankets and/or bathroom towels.

What is soft staging?

If a home is empty, you can consider hiring professional stages. Another option is to save money and soft stage. What is soft staging? Soft staging a empty house is a technique that does not require furniture but uses simple decor pieces and accessories like framed art, rugs, smaller chairs, mirrors, vases, and more. This process can be more cost effective and can be used in home staging for a quick sale.

Some want to know if it better to stage a house or leave it empty? The answer is it can depend. Sometimes with soft staging it can be hard for a buyer to picture themselves inside the home. Other times, it offers a buyer a blank slate and they can envision their own furniture and home decor. If leaving a home empty, ask your realtor about virtual home staging solutions for home photos on MLS listings and real estate apps like Redfin and Zillow.

What brings down property value?

If your a mom of five (like me) this was one question that I wanted answered – does a messy house affect an appraisal? There answer is no. The cleanliness of a home has no impact on the value. This means if your home appraiser is coming over, it is kind to pick up the toys off the playroom floor, but it doesn’t affect the home value he/she puts on the appraisal. However, if your clutter (think hoarders) affects the structural condition of your home, your home appraisal value can decrease. Make sure to make those home improvements before an appraiser comes or be ready to get dinged in your home appraisal and home inspection report.

Many things that affect the property value of your home are out of your control. Examples include proximity to train tracks, power lines, busy roads, noise pollution, the neighborhood, the market, and a home’s usual upgrades. If your home has some of the things that bring property value down, it is important for you to create a space a buyer “has to have!”

What adds most value to a house?

Want to know something funny? I am the frugal blogger but my husband is actually better than me at improving the cost of our home. Especially when it came to decluttering, landscaping, painting, and updating kitchen appliances.

A few things I learned that improve the value of your home. First, we invested in having the lawn cleaned up. We did this before photos. I also painted the front door. Actually, it was solid wood so I just used this UV Wood Polish (see photo below – top done, bottom not finished.) It made the home look a million times better. These two things brought instant curb appeal and positive first impressions.

Next, we knew we would be moving soon, so when our dishwasher broke we actually replaced all of our kitchen appliances so they were matching. You can sell your old working appliances on Facebook marketplace and make a few dollars back. We had these appliances under warranty so that was an added bonus when listing the home. How did we find these pieces for less? We asked our real estate agents who they used for appliances when flipping homes. We used the same services. Another idea is to check with Home Depot for Kitchen Appliances Packages.

We took a week to repaint our kitchen cabinets and brighten up the kitchen. Since we did this about five months before we moved, we spent one late night touching up small nicks and scratches before home photos and putting the home on the market.

Another thing, it’s often suggested to repaint the home with neutral colors. Only repaint rooms where paint colors are very extreme (i.e. bright red or hot pink.) We actually used Mr. Clean Dry Erasers to wipe down the walls of smudges and scratches. Where Mr. Clean did not improve the wall, we used a very small paint brush to fix dings and nicks.

If your budget allows for bigger home improvement projects, take a look at this list of the best ways to add value to your home.

Best Ways to Add Value to Your Home

This list will have a home staging cost in the thousands, but will bring a bigger return.

Finish an unfinished basement or cellar
Apply for planning permission (additions,
Remodel the kitchen
Bathroom addition
Add a deck
Open the living space
Exterior home makeover and refresh
Replacing carpeting

Are these large home improvement projects too expensive? That is okay. There are many low cost home staging options too!

How do I prepare my house for sale checklist?

Why are you here? You want to sell your home for more while spending less. I can help. I have done it. I have done it effectively. I have done it again (with five kids.) If you too want to make profit on your home sale, you will this useful access guide to home staging.

Download your preparing your home for sale checklist PDF. Use it as your cheap home staging resource before you have home staging photos taken or put your home is placed on MLS listing. Just a few simple low cost home improvements can look like “a million bucks!” Watch the value of your home improve, perhaps sell over asking like we did!

SHOP HOME STAGING CHECKLIST

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If you are moving, pick up both our Home Staging Checklist PDF and Moving Binder printables. On the product item page, look for a special coupon code you can use on both products when added to your cart!

SHOP MOVING ORGANIZATIONAL BINDER

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How to Upload Your Printables to Staples Copy Center

When it comes to quality printing services, I love to print at Staples Copy Center. I have a video to show you how I print my PDF documents at Staples.

You can also follow the directions on the video or sign in or create a Staples account. Once signed in, return to the Staples printing service page.

*Note: these Staple print service steps were added in Winter 2019 The directions may change as the website changes. They should give you a general outline of how to upload and order a print on Staples.com.

Our Pinterest community and I would love to see how this worked out for you. Share your final home staging before and after photos. We love to see beautiful homes that are perfectly ready to sell from this checklist! Leave a comment and/or add a photo here on Pinterest!

Take it easy! Follow these Moving Tips and Hacks to make moving so much easier. Pin to Pinterest.

Having looked at houses weekly for 9 months, we walked into many older homes. Follow some of the Older Home Improvement Hacks and DIY Renovations for Less. Pin to Pinterest.

Comforting Fall Dinner Recipes the Whole Family Loves

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September 27, 2020 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Facebook, Halloween, Instagram, Pinterest, Recipe, Social Media, Thanksgiving

Looking for comfort recipes for the fall that the entire family will love? Never ask what’s for dinner and fall in love (full pun!) with this list of family friendly soup, entrees, and dessert Fall Dinner Recipes.

Fall Dinner Recipes

When fall arrives along with chilly weather and changing leaves, we tend to crave comfort food to fill our bellies. We’ve compiled a list of delicious fall dinner recipes to encourage you to get in the kitchen and experiment with all the wonderful flavors of autumn. You’ll find creamy or hearty soups, comforting main dishes, and delectable fall desserts. Many feature pumpkin, squash, apples, and the aromatic spices that fall is so known for. You’re going to find some winners to add to your monthly dinner rotation!

And when you’re entertaining guests (on Thanksgiving, for instance), get our Fall Simmer Pot Recipe going in the background. This homemade potpourri will make your house smell incredible, and we’ve included stovetop and Crock-Pot directions for your convenience. Let it cook as long as you’d like! Just keep adding water.

Soup Recipes

Our creamy, dreamy Copycat Panera Autumn Squash Soup tastes just like the restaurant version, but you can make and eat it right in the comfort of your home. It’s full of butternut squash, pumpkin puree, apple cider, and lots of other fall flavors that blend together beautifully. You’ll love how much money you save by making copycat versions of your favorite recipes! | Frugal Coupon Living

On a chilly night, this Instant Pot Vegetable Beef Soup will be a warm, welcome, and hearty meal for the family. The meat becomes fall-apart tender in the Instant Pot, and the veggies are cooked to perfection. | Healthy Christian Home

Want to eat more veggies? Try our Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup; it’s packed with broccoli. Okay, so it’s also packed with lots of cheese, but you’ll feel a little less guilty because you’re getting green veggies, too. Right? Even the kids will love it. | Frugal Coupon Living

Serve your family a healthy, Mexican-inspired, protein-packed meal. This Quinoa Enchilada Soup is easy to make, freezes well, and goes wonderfully with so many toppings, such as cheese, sour cream, and tortilla strips. | Shweta in the Kitchen

Pumpkin and Cauliflower Soup is creamy, healthy, and so comforting in the fall. The veggies are first roasted to maximize flavor and then pureed into a thick, creamy soup. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal. | Cook It Real Good

There’s so much texture and flavor in this Instant Pot Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup. The creamy sauce really pulls the rice, mushrooms, and veggies together into a delicious meal. | Huckleberry Life

The amazing thing about this Stuffed Cabbage Roll Soup is that it’s an easier way to get all the flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls without all the fuss. It’s easy, frugal, and freezes amazingly well. It’s a quick comfort food meal that you definitely need to add to your fall dinner rotation. | Everyday Delicious

Main Dishes for Fall

When you want comfort food, but you want it fast, our Chicken Pot Pie Crescent Roll Ring is where it’s at. You’ll have it ready and on the table in about 40 minutes, so it’s perfect for a weeknight meal. It includes all the yummy veggies, chicken, and creamy center of a chicken pot pie, but it’s way easier to make. | Frugal Coupon Living (See also our Pillsbury Crescent Roll Recipes.)

One-pan dishes are definitely a favorite. Minimal cleanup is a bonus for busy moms! Make One Pan Pork Chops with Apples in just 30 minutes to serve your family a fast, flavorful meal. | Nourish and Fete

Shepherd’s Pie is a classic dish, but the traditional version with everything made from scratch can be a little time-consuming. This Easy Shepherd’s Pie is made with frozen vegetables, ground beef, gravy, and leftover mashed potatoes. | The Cozy Cook

If you’re looking for a way to use leftover turkey, you don’t want to miss this Easy Turkey Casserole. It’s filled with chopped turkey, veggies, and a cheesy sauce and topped with French fried onions. | Bitz & Giggles

This recipe for Cider-Braised Pork with Apples and Brussels Sprouts is ideal for autumn. The pork is braised with apple cider, while the apples and Brussels sprouts are caramelized to perfection. The toasted pecans sprinkled over the dish give it just the right amount of crunch. | Grateful Meal

Pumpkin doesn’t always have to go in sweet dishes. It’s a delicious addition to savory dishes, too, like this Pumpkin Macaroni and Cheese. It adds another layer of creaminess but doesn’t overpower the dish with pumpkin flavor. A little sage and nutmeg boost the fall flavor in this creative dish. | Simply Stacie

Dare to be adventurous with your pizza this fall. Try this Squash Apple Pizza with an orange, buttery butternut squash puree instead of tomato sauce. It’s topped with pecorino cheese, onions, Gala apples, toasted pecans, and crumbled blue cheese for a wonderful combination of sweet, savory, and tangy. | Foodal

This Healthy Pumpkin Pasta with Spinach and Mushrooms is a yummy meal idea for Meatless Mondays. It’s made with fresh pumpkin, but if you don’t feel like chopping up a pumpkin yourself, about 1-2 cups of pumpkin puree could be substituted. | Happy Kitchen

Curries are so flavorful and easy to make. This Instant Pot Pumpkin Curry is a wonderful curry for fall. It’s made with pumpkin, sweet potato, lentils, and a few other spices and ingredients. Skip the green chili if you’re making this with kids or if you don’t like too much spice. | Little Sunny Kitchen

Make the simple 2-ingredient pizza dough for this Roast Pumpkin Pizza. Alternatively, you could use your favorite pre-made pizza crust to cut down a bit on prep. This fall pizza is made with pumpkin, onions, bell peppers, kalamata olives, mushrooms, and two types of cheese. It has a tomato paste base, however, which still gives it a little of the traditional pizza vibe. | Cook It Real Good

Prepare a small-scale Thanksgiving dinner for your family anytime you want! This Instant Pot Turkey Breast with stuffing and mashed potatoes is everything you need to feel like you’re having a feast without spending the entire day cooking. | Sweet and Savory by Shinee

This tried and true recipe will be a hit with the kids and adults alike. The Crock-Pot French Dip Sandwiches are filling and tasty. Although the recipe lists 14 ingredients, you’ll have most on hand already, such as the spices, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, etc. | Marathons and Motivation

Five ingredients and just 40 minutes will get you this delicious Pressure Cooker Whole Chicken with crispy skin and flavorful meat. Serve alongside some roasted veggies to round out the meal. | Dr. Davinah’s Eats

Instead of Taco Tuesday, make it Taco Casserole Tuesday! This yummy dish is loaded with Mexican flavor and topped with your choice of Doritos, Fritos, or Tortilla Chips to add some crunch. You can even make this recipe days ahead of time (except for the chip topping), so you can have dinner ready in a pinch. | The Cozy Cook

How gorgeous is this Cheesy Leek and Potato Pie? The cheese sauce totally makes the dish, but the flaky pastry top is a winner, too. | A Mummy Too

This vegetarian Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash dish can be either a complete meal for Meatless Monday or a side dish to go along with your favorite meals. | Two Sleevers

Whether you’re watching your carbs or not, this Chicken Zucchini Casserole is a tasty, protein-packed meal with lots of cheesy flavor. Plus, the instructions provide an easy way to avoid having a watery zucchini casserole. | Wholesome Yum

Do you love dump recipes? This one is the easiest ever. Just throw everything into the slow cooker and let it go. Easy peasy. You’re going to love the sweet-savory flavor of this Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies. | Damn Delicious

Fall Dessert Recipes

No-churn ice cream recipes are the best. After all, who needs an extra kitchen appliance? Our Pumpkin Pie Ice Cream is flavorful, creamy, and absolutely delicious in the fall when you’re snuggled up with a blanket and a good book. | Frugal Coupon Living

This Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake is a perfect fall dessert. Moist pumpkin cake is topped with smooth cream cheese frosting and drizzled with salted caramel. You get the delicious flavor of salted caramel and creamy frosting in every single bite. | Will Cook for Smiles

Our Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Cake Bites make an incredible breakfast, snack, or dessert. You can’t go wrong with pumpkin, cake, and chocolate chips. Dip them in maple syrup for even more sweetness. | Frugal Coupon Living

When you need a quick, easy, no-fail dessert, try this Pumpkin Dump Cake. It’s made with a boxed cake mix and a few added ingredients to elevate the taste. Pumpkin, pecans, and pumpkin spice give it all the fall flavors you know and love. | All Things Mamma

These Apple Crisp Bars will make your kitchen smell incredible while baking. A layer of sweet oat cake is topped with a layer of sweetened apples and more oats on top to create a crispy layer. | Simply Stacie

It just isn’t autumn without at least one Pumpkin Cake Roll. Of course, you’ll need to make several because they make lovely food gifts for neighbors and friends! This recipe is relatively simple and will be your go-to for a Thanksgiving Day dessert. | An Alli Event

Perhaps you’d like a low-fuss dessert on a crisp, fall evening. These Pumpkin Pie Parfaits are incredibly easy to make, plus they look like you put in tons of effort. It’s as simple as layering crushed cookies with a pumpkin-pudding mixture and whipped cream. | Kenarry

These Caramel Apple Crisp Bites will make you swoon! Graham cracker crust is topped with apple cinnamon filling and then drizzled with caramel before serving. Add a big scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side, if desired. Yum! | Princess Pinky Girl

Homemade Easy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with cream cheese icing and vanilla ice cream are never a bad thing for dessert. These are just like the Pioneer Woman Cinnamon Rolls!

It doesn’t get much easier than these Crock Pot Baked Apples. They cook just a couple of hours in the slow cooker on high, and then they’re ready to devour. Don’t forget to scoop a little ice cream on top right before serving! | Easy Family Recipe Ideas

Pin to Pinterest this list of delectable fall dinner recipes to serve up for your family and friends this autumn.

More Fall Comfort Food Recipes

Save these Easy Fall Recipes using Canned Pumpkin Puree. Pin to Pinterest.

Also take a look at these 31+ Days of Fall and Winter Soup Recipes. Pin to Pinterest Recipe or Fall Boards.

Also enjoy these Comforting Casserole Winter Recipes. Pin to Pinterest Fall or Recipe Boards.

Flashlight Scavenger Hunt

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April 18, 2022 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Crafts, DIY, Facebook, Games, Instagram, Pinterest, Printable, Social Media

Want an outdoor night game for the kids? This printable Flashlight Scavenger Hunt can be used for camping at night or backyard fun after dark. Additionally, you can download and save this full list of nine additional outdoor scavenger hunts for kids to create family traditions and memories year-round.

Flashlight Scavenger Hunt

If 2020 has taught us anything it has been to create family traditions and to be more creative with our time. Thinking outside the box has taught us to make new memories.

Did you know? Memories are created when something different happens. Have you noticed how quickly the days and weeks fly by when you are in the same old routine. When you change up that daily routine and add in something different, you have created a memory in your child’s mind. It is a bump in the road on their walk of life and creates something they look back on – that can be good or bad. Why not create more bumps in the road that are good.

One way to change up a routine week or weekend night is to add in a Flashlight Treasure Hunt.

Outdoor Flashlight Scavenger Hunt

Take your traditional family game night out of the box with this Night Scavenger Hunt idea for kids. This scavenger hunt is very basic. What makes it fun for Family Camping or Backyard Entertainment is that it’s out of the norm. You child will love waiting for the the sun to set and pulling out their flashlight. You can take this scavenger hunt on a trail, to a campsite or use in your own yard.

This flashlight hunt is a free printable. Participants can be of all ages. The outdoor scavenger hunt checklist makes it easy for younger kids, just have an older kid guide them on what the words say. They can direct the flashlight beam of light toward the object and then check the box.

For a fun twist, it’s easy to turn this into a photo scavenger hunt too, just take along your camera or cell phone and make a checkmark when you capture the item in a photo. If you want to adapt this outdoor scavenger hunt at night to teens, take this challenge at twilight when the light is just right. Turn this into a photo scavenger hunt. While the kids will finish this treasure hunt rather quickly, you can vote on best photographs for the win! If the mall feels like the wilderness (filled with wild animals – aka teens) also consider our photo scavenger hunt for teens at the mall.

When taking the flashlight scavenger hunt challenge, make your evening family activity even more fun, trying paring this adventure with even more fun by adding in S’mores Campfire Cones or learn How to Color Flames in a Fire (in our overnight camping tips.)

Use on an overnight camping trip or slumber party.

Print the Free Flashlight Scavenger Hunt

Outdoor Scavenger Hunt Ideas

What this flashlight scavenger hunt fun? We have plenty of other outdoor Scavenger Hunt Ideas. These outdoor scavenger hunts for kids can be brought to the beach, the park, the neighborhood, etc.

Get outside!

Outdoor Scavenger Hunts for Kids Printables

Night Games for Kids

Like I said earlier, staying home and in the outdoors provides plenty of opportunities to create new family traditions and new family memories. Take a look at some of the outdoor night games for kids including how to play flashlight tag, gloweyball, glow sardines, kick the can, ghost in the graveyard and night statues. You might recognize some of your favorite childhood games twisted into backyard games with your kids.

Print these directions and a list of game ideas for the next page you want to create in your kids metal book of memories.

Print Outdoor Night Games for Kids with Instructions

Flashlight Scavenger Hunt Printable

Download our free Flashlight Outdoor Scavenger Hunt printable. You can also access our Outdoor Night Games for Kids. Subscribe and look for a link and password in our inbox. The password allows you to access and download all of our free printables.

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Our Pinterest community and I would love to see how this worked out for you. Share your final flashlight scavenger hunt game and outdoor scavenger hunts printables. Leave a comment and/or add a photo here on Pinterest!

We have plenty of other ideas that might interest you! First, are you taking this Flashlight Tag on a camping trip or just to the backyard? Take a look at both our…

This also goes great with other parties and games. Consider these ideas…

If you are planning a large gathering – playing outdoors with family, neighborhood friends, youth group, camp or even an outdoor birthday party, take a look at these Backyard Games PDF. Includes directions and supply list as well as a blank Scavenger Hunt Template. Pin to Pinterest.

Outdoor Games Directions & Supply List Printable

Purr-fect Cat Birthday Party Ideas

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March 23, 2023 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Birthday, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Social Media

Don’t be a furball! Throw a Purr-fectly planned Cat Birthday Party. Cattastic kitty party ideas for pets and their tiny humans. Make a cat birthday hat, bake a cool cat cake, download a free cat printable, and find all the cat party decor you could need for your (fur or furless) loved one. Happy celebrating both your feline friend and birthday girl!

Does your kitty have a special place in your heart? Parents can be pretty extra when it comes to celebrating another year in their kid’s life – Furball or human – and that is okay! We have some of the most creative cat birthday party ideas for pets and humans. Enjoy these cat-tastic cat-themed birthday party cakes, party games, cat party decor ideas, and more.

Happy celebrating your special day!

Find more inspiration in our Littlest Pet Shop Party Ideas.

Cat Birthday Party Ideas for Pets

First, let’s start with your feline friend. If it’s your cat’s special day, let’s take a look at some cute ideas for your cat’s birthday. These fun ideas can be done alone or in celebration with others.

What should I do on my cat’s birthday?

If you have a feline buddy that is about to have a special way, there are a few things you can do to not disrupt their digestive system or comfortable environment. White a cat party is typically for the feline owner, you should (of course) give a cat a birthday party. There are small things you can do for your special pet including a fun treat, new toys, and ideas for pay-it-forward donations (so they don’t feel completely spoiled.)

Make a homemade cat treat
Take a cute cat photo
Have friends visit with donations to the animal shelter
Get a new cat bed
Upcycle a box (you need me to explain more? Okay, put a box on the ground – the cat will show you.)

Take a look at these cat-tastic, cool cat pet birthday party ideas. From drinks to cakes, birthday photos, and more. For a cute idea, ask guests to bring donations for an animal shelter. Your cat truly doesn’t need more than you would already deliver. Grab your organic catnip and a few new toys, – let’s wish your (insert cat name) a very Happy birthday!

Homemade Cat Treats

The best gift you can give your pet is a treat. The online pet store Chewy doesn’t have a premade cat birthday cake (they have a dog birthday cake.) Every cat, however, will enjoy this microwave cat cake mix with turkey flavors. Warning: they might not share with the party guests so save a few extras for any feline guests.

DIY Cat Party Hats

Every cool cat needs a party hat for the celebration. Follow this tutorial for how to make a birthday hat for your pet. Quicky snap that cat photo, because you know they will run! | Jedi Craft Girl

Cat Cupcake Recipe

Want something to spoil your cat with? Follow this pet recipe for cats. Have a tuna kitty birthday cake for the birthday cat and kitty cat cupcakes for the humans. Cats love when they get to eat their own birthday cake, of course! | Mommity

Cat Party Food

If you need cat party food ideas for all these furballs (or just the special guy/gal), save on your kitty food when you show chewy.com cat food. You can save on reoccurring shipments or buy one-time cat food for a party.

Check out

cat food with gravy
cat food treats
adorable cat food bowls

Cat Party Decor

This Cat Birthday Party Set is great because those little dangly ribbon cat streamers can double as cat toys when you’re through with them. In addition, this kitty party set comes with a birthday banner, Mylar balloons, and a cat centerpiece. Serve with a bit of cut-up chicken cat food and warm up your vocal cords with a happy birthday tune – make sure you make it pur-tastic mixing a few meows between each line of the song.

Cat Photo Ideas

Cat Party Welcome Idea

Take an annual birthday picture of your cat. Watch how your cat grows (or just stays the same – wink!) This portrait will be framed on the wall in the third spot, clearly. | Polka-Dotty Place

Decorate the front walk with sidewalk chalk. Cool cats and party go-ers will know where the party is at! | Source (Similar Idea in our Littlest Pet Shop Party Ideas!)

Cat Party Drinks

Have some tasty adult beverages for the humans. Mark off drinks and mugs with drink collars like these wine lives Kitty Drink Markers off Amazon.

Crafts for Cats

Have activities for the attending guests to celebrate the pet cat. Pick up this book Cattastic Crafts: DIY Project for Cats and Cat People. All the crafts they are made can be used for the birthday pet! They can make a gift for the birthday feline or as fun activities for everyone to take home for a party favor.

Treat your cat like a queen or king and show them you love them… Now for the non-furries.

Cat Themed Birthday Party for Kids

Of course, the humans and owners sometimes have birthday parties too. These kids’ cat-themed birthday party ideas are purr-fect for the non-furballs. If you have a special someone who loves cats, take a look at these cat birthday party ideas. These cat birthday ideas can honor the cat or your tiny human who also has a birthday. If it’s a human birthday, just remember to give the birthday girl/boy as much love as the cat… okay?

Cat Party Games

Looking for cat birthday party games and activities for the kids aka kittens? Take a look at these kitty cat games for loads of party fun. Roll down the hall pushing those balls of yarn with your nose. Fastest feline wins. | Nestling Design

DIY Cat Party Balloons

Try this budget-friendly decor. For the party balloons, use black construction paper to cut ears, a nose, and whiskers. Tape them onto balloons to create adorable cat birthday balloons. You can also purchase cat latex balloons instead of making your own.| Delia Creates

Free Cat Prints

Have some fun cat quotes around. Make them to dress up the tables. You can add this adorable cat party decor – you’ve cat to be kitten me right meow free printable. Then use it has a keepsake for later and hang it on your child’s wall. | Mod Podge Rocks

Cat Birthday Party Masks

Give everyone a fun pet name and let them wear a fun little cat mask with party hats. (This set is sold out but you can grab a similar set here.)

Cat Themed Birthday Party Cake

For a purr-fect cat-themed birthday party cake, take this to your baker for inspiration! You could also pick up these cat shaped cake toppers. | Project Nursery

Adopt a Cat Party Idea

Have a pet adoption station where party visitors can adopt their very own Beanie Boo’s. Compare prices with Webkinz Cats. All the guests will have a blast picking out and naming their very own pets. | Modern Glam (a lot of great kitty party ideas from Ashley)

Cat Party Food Ideas

Serve candy in a kitty litter bucket. You can use a brand-new kitty scooper as a spoon and allow everyone to make their very own cat litter-themed goodie bags. Alternatively, fill the bucket with oatmeal and small chocolates – if you get what I am implying. | The Purple Pug

Cat Party Table Decor

Create this cute cat party tablescape with balls of yarn, cat pails, cat cookies, and cat ear headbands. You can grab these metal white pails and Sharpie Permanent Markers to make your own.| Pretty Plain Janes

Cat Party Treats

Now for the cat birthday party-themed snacks. Using triangular cheese and crackers, create a lip-smacking, tasty mice snack. | Hostess with the Mostess

Read to party? Keep the kids entertained. Take a look at these 50+ Kids’ Party Games – indoor, outdoor, night, birthday.

MORE THEMED BIRTHDAY PARTY IDEAS

We have many more themed birthday party ideas for boys and girls. Save many of these for ideas for future years or for other children and pets too!

Not having a large birthday gathering this year? Look at these family birthday ideas.

Enjoy another year!

Encouraging Words for Kids

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August 4, 2021 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Facebook, Instagram, Kids, Parenting, Pinterest, Printable, Social Media

Parenting doesn’t come with a manual but this loving words for kids printable will help as a parent aide. Learn about your child’s love language and instantly download these words of encouragement for kids to build self esteem and intrinsic self affirmation.

While parenting is not linear and sometimes a + b does not always equal c, it is nice to have a guide to remind us how to parent well and how to parent form the heart.

The Five Love Languages

What are the Five Love Languages? Whether learning about the heart of a spouse or your kids, author Gary Chapman teaches us there are multiple ways to fill the loved tank of our family members. The “5 Love Languages include Words of Affirmation, Acts of Service, Receiving Gifts, Quality Time, and Physical Touch. You can learn more about your love language, your spouses love language and your child’s love language by taking a Love Language Quiz.

Inside every child (and adult) there is an emotional love tank. Focusing on filling your child’s love tank allows them to find fulfillment in the home instead of looking for it elsewhere and in the wrong places. It is important that parents learn how to love children and that can easily be done with a prompt providing loving words of affirmation for kids.

What are some good words of encouragement for kids?

Wouldn’t it be great if parenting came with a manual? After five kids I still am trying to figure things out. Of course, each new age comes with challenges too, so just when you have things somewhat in a good flow, a hiccup occurs.

While, there is no parenting manual, we hope this loving words printable will be a visual reminder for encouraging your kids. I personally hung my words of encouragement printable in the medicine cabinet of my bathroom. This gives me a daily reminder of my tongue and how I can encourage children with words.

These encouraging words for kids include the following phrases…

Words of encouragement for kids

I love you!
I’m glad I’m your mom (or dad!)
My day isn’t complete without a hug from you.
I admire your hard work!

Children often want the simplest of things. They want to be loved, appreciated, and cared for. Through words of affirmation, you can show your children you love them, not only through actions, but by saying what they are longing to hear. Taking the time to voice your love builds strong, self-confident kids who know how to express their love to others.

Notice that these phrases above have I/my statements. In addition to making personal statements, try changing some of these phrases by replacing with alternative pronouns. Teach your children to have pride in themselves so sometimes their reward is intrinsic instead of external (form you.)

For example, try these replacement phrases to increase intrinsic motivation words of encouragement for kids…

Words of affirmation for kids

Try these messages of positive things to say to kids with these intrinsic self affirmation phrase.

Instead of “I’m proud of you” try “You should be proud!“
Instead of “I admire your hard work” try “You worked very hard to _____“
Instead of “You did great” try “You came up with a thoughtful solution and really nailed that math problem.“

Play with these sentences and try to change them a little by adding specific and descriptive comments to signal you have paid attention and you really care. See how your child’s self esteem grows and if your words are effective in promoting desired behaviors.

Encouraging Words for Kids Printable

Get all of our free printables including this list of encouraging words printable. Subscribe and look for a link and password in our inbox. The password allows you to access and download all of our free printables including our words to appreciate a child.

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I am happy to share printables. When sharing with others, please lead them to my website instead of emailing them the file(s). It takes time, effort and money to put the freebies forth and I earn when you visit. Thanks for visiting and thanks for sharing with others!

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Discipline Through Words of Affirmation for Kids

While the word discipline and the phrase words of affirmation don’t seem to go hand and hand, it is possible to discipline your child through their love language. Our words of affirmation printable does not include discipline. However, I do want to share with you a resource we use in our home. Don’t Make Me Count to Three by Ginger Hubbard.

Ginger Hubbard Don’t Make Me Count to Three

If you loved Gary Chapman’s The 5 Love Languages of Children, look at this book companion. In the book Don’t Make Me Count to Three, Ginger Hubbard encourages and equips moms to reach past the outward behavior of their children and dive deeply into the issues of the heart. Instead of feeling discouraged or angry, look at poor behavior as an opportunity to grow the word of God on your child’s heart.

Heads up, spankings are used in this book, so adapt what you want to your own parenting style. While I am a former teacher and have studied Conscious Discipline (no spanking) this book taught me a lot about tying my discipline to the heart and the word of God. In fact, I was missing the book a lot time and asked my husband where it was. It was in his backpack as he was reading it during his free time. I didn’t even prompt him to look at the book I had picked up on Amazon a few weeks prior.

Wise Words for Mom

Not into chapter books? I encourage you to pick up Wise Words for Moms. We have this hanging by our calendar in our Family Command Center. You can use this companion without the book, it really is a must for using words of affirmation and scripture during discipline.

Wise Words for Moms is a calendar-sized chart, designed to aid you in using the Scriptures to drive out the foolishness that is bound up in the heart of [your] child (Proverbs 22:15). It is a tool for your personal research of the Bible for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training your children in righteousness.

Our Pinterest community and I would love to see how this worked out for you. Share your final loving words for kids printable. Leave a comment and/or add a photo here on Pinterest!

Hey mom! We got ya, we get ya! We know you are a busy lady. Get yourself orgnaized with this Busy Mom Binder! (Pin to Pinterest)

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